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Dr. John Carter wants to invite everyone to stop by the office to meet him and the Staff of Dental Associates! Dr. John Carter is a general dentist with 17 years experience and a wide range of treatment skills from fillings/crowns and gum therapy to dental implants and orthodontics. Dr. Carter was born in Tampa and grew up in Brooksville, which has given him an appreciation for the outdoors and small towns. He received his dental degree from the University of Florida in 1996 and moved back to the Tampa Bay Area to start his practice. He is a member of the American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, and West Coast Dental Association. Dr. Carter lives in Tampa with his wife, Genie, and their two young sons, Nicholas and Zachary. They attend St. John’s Greek Orthodox Church. Dr. Carter enjoys family activities, which include biking, water sports, camping, and attending sporting events.
Visit us online at WWW.DENTALASSOCIATESFL.COM Plant City - 813-719-2222
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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14 Talk Of
100 Chili’s Athelete Of
18 Local
103 Team Of
51 Feature:
121 Recipe Of
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2013 Florida Strawberry Festival
59 Spotlight:
Meet The Queen and Court
79 Business Profile:
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The Month The Month The Month
123 Dining Profile:
Strawberry Dishes
130 Event Calendar 133 Crossword
focusplantcity.com
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Letter From The Publisher
What a busy month this has been! If activity means productivity, Plant City can expect an outstanding year. As DeDe and I worked throughout town this month gathering the good news about upcoming events, the Florida Strawberry Festival and various civic efforts, we were reminded once again of what an amazing town this is, and of the people’s generosity.
See why everyone is driving to Bartow to buy a car from TOM EDWARDS.
Please don’t miss our story about the new Plant City Community Ministries, an organization of approximately 20 churches (and more are welcome to get involved) working jointly to assist those in need or anyone struggling to take the next good step towards help and permanent solutions. February’s edition is also the month we spotlight the newly-crowned Queen and her Court, which is always a fun photo shoot for our Art Director, Anthony Sassano. This community is blessed with bright young women who are eager to represent the area and the agricultural industry with excellence. And Focus is thrilled to showcase them.
Hopefully, your family is making plans to attend the world-famous Florida Strawberry Festival that begins on Thursday, February 28 and runs through Sunday, March 10. The Floyd family has already started our list of what to see, do and eat on each of our multiple visits. Hope to see you there, too! And as always, thanks for reading.
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 Jared Guyer jguyer@floydpublications.com
Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990
Editorial Director Amanda Deck adeck@floydpublications.com
www.focusplantcity.com Copy Editor Linda Floyd editorial@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.
Sales Dede Floyd | Aldo Trevino | Cindy Cutting Joseph Roberts Jennifer Chamberlain | Kayla Sherrard Art Director Anthony Sassano
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.
Production Intern Abby Born FOCUSTV Shana Mitchell | Victoria Garren Distribution Belva DeVane
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.
Photographers NamPhan Photography Staff Writers Cheryl Johnston Brian West | Joe Bowles Derek Maul | Amanda Deck | Deana Garrison Contributors Al Ruechel | Gil Gott Bruce Rodwell | Jo-An Lusk | Nate Davis Candy Owens
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Another wonderful February tradition has taken a sprint, literally, to the next level. With the addition of the Strawberry Dash to the 6th annual Strawberry Distance Challenge 5K race, almost 400 runners hit the pavement rails through Walden Lake to raise funds for The Youth Alliance and to conquer some personal fitness goals or simply involve the family in some sunny exercise. Be sure to check out the photos at https:// www.facebook.com/StrawberryDistanceChallenge?fref=ts
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Talk of the Town
Submit your news to: editorial@floydpublications.com
Field Trip Fun!
Relay for Life Updates
Mark your calendars for the Relay for Life Survivor Dinner that will be held on March 25th at the First Baptist Church of Plant City. The event date for the relay is set for April 1920. Current sponsors include South Florida Baptist Hospital, CF Industries, the Herman family and the Clark/ Haskew Families. If you would like to become a sponsor, you can contact Linda Herman at lindaherman@mac.com. In addition, there is still time to sign your team up for the relay. There are currently 70 teams. Help them reach their goal of 90 teams. If you are ready to register your team, contact Joanie Petty at pettyjj2@ yahoo.com. For all other questions contact Cathy Vallianatos at cathy. vallianatos@cancer.org. Let’s make the 2013 Relay for Life a huge success!
Youth Fishing Derby The 2013 Spring Youth Fishing Derby, open to boys and girls ages 5 through 15, is quickly approaching. The derby will again take place on Gordon Food Service Drive (formerly Albertson Drive), west of Park Road, just behind the Randy L. Larson Softball Four-Plex, which features a pond full of bass, catfish, mudfish, speckled perch, blue gill, and more. A date will be announced soon for this free event at plantcitygov. com so stay updated if interested in participating. For more information contact Deborah Haldane at the Plant City Recreation and Parks Administration Office at 813659-4200 ext. 4302 or at dhaldane@plantcitygov.com.
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Photo Credit: Amanda Deck After touring the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center in January, kindergarteners and first-graders from Faith Christian Academy were excited to learn more about their community’s rich history during a field trip to the Bing Rooming House Museum on Friday, Feb. 1. These students enjoyed scanning the numerous photographs and learning about the interesting artifacts on display at the historic landmark on S. Allen St.
Young Leaders Six local students participated in the annual Plant City Optimist Club Oratorical Contest on Monday, February 4, each presenting four to five minute orations in front of an audience of over 50 people. Ashlyn Yarbrough captured first place in the girls’ competition, while Emmalise Hunter placed second and Katherine Ruppert placed third. Mario Leon captured first place in the boys’ competition, while Arie Fry placed second and Chase Lott placed third.
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Talk of the Town
Submit your news to: editorial@floydpublications.com
On to the Next Level
Shout out to several Plant City High School senior athletes who signed letters of intent during National Signing Day on Wednesday, Feb. 6 to play college football in the fall. Dontavius “Tae” Johnson, Quentin Robinson, and Tranard Styles will be playing at Ridgewater College in Wilmar, Minnesota, and Devyn Salmon will be playing Division I football at Michigan State University.
Support our Troops
Young Innovators from Walden Lake Six Walden Lake Elementary School students proceeded to the top 50 in the USF Young Innovator Competition on Wednesday, Jan. 30. Nearly 600 invention entries were judged by a panel of nine experienced technologists. Congratulations to Ashley Dunn, Peyton Strawn, Ben Paquet, Zachary Hall, Cooper Tharrington, and Kristen Ryan for achieving top 50 honors.
Celebrate with FOCUS!
One hundred seventy guardsmen from the 3rd Battalion, 116th Field Artillery headquartered in Plant City, along with three other units stationed in Arcadia, Avon Park, and Lake Wales, will deploy to Qatar for nine months. A departure ceremony is scheduled for 4 p.m. on Thursday, Feb 21 at the Highlands County Fair Association Convention Center (781 Magnolia Avenue, Sebring) and is open to the public. In addition, the unit will leave Plant City for the mobilization site at 6:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 23. Everyone is encouraged to line the departure route during this time (Airport Road to Turkey Creek Rd, to US Highway 92 to Branch Forbes Road to Interstate 4) to wave goodbye to our troops, a gesture of support and appreciation for their dedicated service to our country.
Mark your calendars for our annual Readers’ Choice Awards Ceremony/11th Anniversary Party on Thursday, February 21 at Keel and Curley Winery hosted by Dave McKay. The celebration—including food, drinks, and a live band—will take place from 5:15 to 10 p.m. A $10 donation will be suggested at the door to benefit FOCUS Magazine’s Relay for Life team.
Plant City Community Choir Spring Concert
On Saturday, March 9, St. Clement Catholic Church (located on 1104 N. Alexander St.) will be hosting the Plant City Community Choir’s first concert of 2013 entitled “Music of the Night.” Advance tickets are $5 and are available through PCCC members, pccommunitychoir.com until 12 a.m. on March 8, or by calling 813-493-1979. Tickets will be $7 at the door at 6:30 p.m., doors will open at 7 p.m. and the concert will begin at 7:30 p.m.
s at l a n o i s s e f The Pro ices f f o d n a s me making ho fect r e p e r u t pic Keleigh Broxton Photography by Jennifer Griffin Photography
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Local » Focus Foundation, just to name a few. In addition, the 2013 Outstanding Citizen of the Year is a highly active member of the First United Methodist Church of Plant City, where he has served in a variety of capacities. This devotion to so many different organizations is what made Sedita stand out from other Citizen of the Year nominees. “The biggest thing was how much he doesn’t look or seek recognition even though he has given a lot of time and money,” explained Kiwanis Club President Earl Burkett. “Every one of the nominees were worthy of this honor, but he just seemed to rise to the top of the list.” Youth of the Year recipients also commented on how Sedita’s service to the community is something to be admired and emulated.
Outstanding Youth of the Year Paige Carlson, Kiwanis Club President Earl Burkett, and Outstanding Youth of the Year Robby Knox surround Plant City’s 2013 Outstanding Citizen of the Year Joseph Sedita.
HonoringJosephCommunity Sedita Named Plant City’s Leaders Outstanding Citizen of the Year M Written By: Amanda Deck
embers from various Plant City civic organizations gathered on Wednesday, February 13 for the 54th Annual Outstanding Citizen of Year Luncheon at Hillsborough Community College’s Trinkle Center.
The award program was first established by the First National Bank of Plant City in 1960 to honor citizens who have made a significant, positive impact within the community—those who give without seeking anything in return. Since its foundation, the program has grown considerably as numerous service groups fund and support the ceremony today, including the American Business Woman’s Association, Civitan Club, Daybreak Rotary Club, GFWC Woman’s Club, Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis Club, Lions Club, Optimist Club, Noon Rotary Club, and GFWA Junior Woman’s Club.
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Before the announcement of the 2013 Outstanding Citizen of the Year, Civitan Club President Pat Pogue recognized the Outstanding Youth of the Year, Durant High School’s Paige Carlson and Plant City High School’s Robby Knox, two exceptional students who have achieved academically while recording hundreds of hours of community service throughout their high school careers. Past Citizen of the Year recipients, current Strawberry Festival Directors, and the Strawberry Festival Queen, Court, and chaperones were also recognized prior to the luncheon’s main event. Finally, the 2012 Outstanding Citizen of the Year, Dr. Donald Humphrey, made his way to the podium to announce the 2013 Outstanding Citizen of the Year— Joseph Sedita—who Humphery described as “naturally quiet and reserved, with a passion for personal growth and a passion to share dreams with others…a person of dignity and integrity…whose life motto is
‘Don’t let your fears get in the way of your dreams.’”
“It is such as honor to learn from him,” said Knox. “He is a true role model, not only for his work locally in the Plant City community, but throughout the entire county as well.” “If I could meet him and get to speak with him, I’m sure he could teach me a lot,” said Paige Carlson. “He is a phenomenal leader.” When Humphrey called his name, signifying him as the 2013 Outstanding Citizen of the Year, Sedita was truly humbled by the honor, thanking his family, coworkers, friends and the Plant City community for being such blessings in his life.
“Sometimes you get led to places you don’t Extremely well-known for his work quite understand,” said Sedita. “But I’m in the Plant City business community, glad to be a part of Plant City.” Sedita is founder of and consultant at Sedita Kilton Life & Wealth Management, LLC and Sedita Kilton & Company, Certified Public Accountants, P.L. Furthermore, Sedita has contributed time and money to several Plant City civic organizations over the years, including the Boys and Girls Club, Chamber of Commerce, Boy Scouts of America, Toastmasters Club, Joseph Sedita addresses the audience after being and South Florida named Plant City’s 2013 Outstanding Citizen of the Year. Baptist Hospital
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Local » Focus
Stepping with Purpose Plant City Hosts a Stepping Competition During the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Weekend
M
arshall Elementary School’s gymnasium resonated with the sounds of stepping, clapping and chanting as The Plant City Dr. MLK Cultural Arts Festival closed out its first day of celebration. The festival’s 10th annual Step Show showcased six groups from the central Florida region ranging in age from six years to high school seniors. Kelsey Williams and his step crew were among the spectators, not just to partake in the high energy, but to scope out the competition…Durant. Williams, the group’s coach, and his crew are from Plant City High and his school and Durant are big rivals in anything that has to do with competition. One group in particular seemed to catch
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Written By: Darcie Jarrett
the high school senior’s eye. TBS (Taken By Surprise), from Lakeland, presented a routine with complex combinations and sharp motions. “Wow, they’re good”, says Williams, as he watched the crew and shouted words of encouragement to the team, which ended up taking first place in the night’s competition. Williams started stepping as early as sixyears-old. He enjoys this type of dance for its creative ability of expression and sound. It also provides a strong sense of camaraderie amongst its participants. Speaking of his own crew, Williams said “We’re all friends. We’re all family.” Stepping is a theme-based style of dance
and hone in on a great African American who gave his life for a social cause.”
Thomas says the popularity of the show has gone down over the past couple of years but is starting to pick back up. The organization presents trophies for first, second and third places as well as cash prizes “which makes The show was the last component to be us unique,” said Thomas. added to the long weekend event. The themes throughout the night William Thomas, Jr., Vice President of the mimicked much of Dr. Martin Luther King Plant City Improvement Team said they Jr.’s messages…to “stomp out” violence and have encouraged more high school groups racism. to get excited about the competition. “We wanted to get high school groups involved An online biography of King emphasizes a because they have become more blended.” quote the activist made concerning how he With what Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. wanted to be remembered: “…if you want stood for in alleviating racial inequality to say that I was a drum major. Say that I and civil rights, the presentation of these was a drum major for justice. Say that I was blended groups displays an array of respect a drum major for peace. I was a drum major and honor to such a historical figure. for righteousness. And all of the other Thomas said, “What better way to celebrate shallow things will not matter.” where individuals use their bodies to create complex rhythms and sounds. This artistry is created through a variation of hand clapping, footsteps and spoken words.
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Local » Focus Stephanie Eisenbach, President of the GFWC Plant City Junior Woman‘s Club said with enthusiasm, “The delivery of the shoes to these children is one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever known. The look of excitement on the children’s faces is something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life”
Plant City Junior Woman’s Club
Charity GolfGolfing For A Tournament Good Cause T Written By: Dale Bliss
he Plant City Junior Woman’s Club annual community shoe drive is well underway. This year, this important and much needed community project will be partially funded by the club’s first annual Charity Golf Tournament on April 6 at the Walden Lake Golf and Country Club, with registration starting at 7 a.m. and tee-off time at 8 a.m. sharp. Kendelle Jimenez, third Vice-President of the GFWC Plant City Junior Woman’s Club said, “We are looking forward to a successful tournament, but it will not be
possible without the generous support of our community and sponsors.” Jimenez continued, “We look forward with excitement and anticipation to a successful tournament that will benefit numerous underprivileged children throughout Plant City and the surrounding communities.”
There will be trophies, prizes, and a 50-50 drawing at the tournament along with lots of fun and good fellowship for a wonderful cause. In addition, the Tampa Bay Lightning cheerleaders will be in attendance to rally the cause and support Plant City in its efforts to instill the heartfelt and long standing saying that “charity does indeed begin at home.”
For more information contact Kendelle Jimenez, tournament chairperson at 813-997-3359 or via e-mail at KendelleJimenez@ You may The Shoe Project comes from the heartfelt yahoo.com. efforts of the Junior Woman’s Club. The also contact Stephanie money raised allows the club to sponsor Eisenbach at Steph57b@ children in desperate need from 14 local yahoo.com or call 813-468elementary schools with shoes and socks. 0230. Jimenez stated that this is their main project of the year.
The Plant City Junior Woman’s Club is teaming up with the Plant City Shoe Project by sponsoring their first annual Charity Golf Tournament on April 6.
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Local » Focus Phil Waldron, Economic Development Council; Brian West, Membership; Keith Smith, Community and Governmental Affairs; Janet Kelly, Community Programs; Aaron Davis, Yvonne Fry, Michael Gottesman, Edweana Haney, Charles Harris, Bradley Herremans, Vickie Houlis, Jason Jones, Gail Lyons, Steve Nierman and Michael Watkins. Finally, incoming chair, Scott, shared a few words of thanks for Buzza’s leadership and his look forward for 2013. The evening always ends with a video put together by Al Berry and the chamber staff featuring the chamber board. The video is typically a spoof of a popular television show and includes jokes that poke fun of current events – typically within the city, and sometimes others that are sure to be attending the dinner. At the end of the day, it’s all in fun and hopefully those watching got a few laughs.
Jim Scott, incoming Chair, presents Matt Buzza, outgoing Chair, with a plaque from the Chamber.
31st Annual Chairman’s Banquet Welcomes New Buzza passes the gavel to Scott Chairman P Written By: Brian West
lant City has a very active Chamber of Commerce. All the events that are put together each year, planning and overall execution, wouldn’t happen without the full-time chamber staff and the support and volunteer service of the membership, ambassadors and chamber board. Each year, board members leave and new board members are installed with a pledge of dedication and service, and the passing of the gavel from the outgoing chair to the incoming chair. This all happens formally
at the annual Chairman’s Banquet.
This year, the chamber held its 31st Annual Chairman’s Banquet at the Trinkle Center on January 31st. Billy Keel, Past Chair – 2001, emceed the event. Keel was a great host, mixing in a little humor while guiding the evening from opening to closing. More than 200 people attended the event, which included a chicken and steak plated meal by Catering by the Family.
Immediately following dinner, the board recognized the outgoing members: Past Chair Lee Williams, Rick Bunnell, Doug Driggers and Paul Davis. Outgoing chair, Matt Buzza, offered a few words to the attendees to describe his year as chair and the accomplishments experienced. Then the new board was brought to the stage for their installation. This year’s board includes Jim Scott, Chairman; Nate Kilton, Chair-Elect; Matt Buzza, Immediate Past Chairman; Michael Cameron, Treasurer;
This year, the board spoofed America’s Got Talent with Plant City’s Got Talent. It took quite a cast of characters to pull off this video: Aaron Davis telling jokes, Lyons as a quick-change artist and almost falling several times in the process, Harris demonstrating his Karate talents born from inspiration as he tripped over concrete walking through mid-town, Waldron (the only true talent in the bunch) playing guitar, Scott as a magician, West doing a exceptionally poor version of the Gangnam Style dance, Kilton delivering a hilarious poem on the tax code that even a hardened IRS agent would find funny, Nierman eating bugs as a survival technique and Herremans as an untalented actor. Cameron was the emcee and Paul Davis, Haney and Gary Pike were the judges. Of course, some acts were better than others, but the judges stole the show. Haney proved to be a popular judge with the crowd. Scott was named winner, which was fitting as the incoming chair.
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Local » Focus “The SDC5K couldn’t be done without them.” Popular community spokesperson Al Berry interviewed runners preparing to race and announced finishers as they crossed the line. Participants and spectators also enjoyed photos with another well-known Mr. Berry, the strawberry-headed, white-suited Florida Strawberry Festival® mascot. SDC5K runners were excited to see chip timing return in 2013, and for the popular Dri-Fit shirts option with early registration. With the addition of the Strawberry Dash one-mile run/walk, folks of every size, age and life stage could show support.
Realizing they are at the halfway mark, runners pick up the pace to press on for the finish. Photo by: Kelsie Baerwalde
Strawberry Distance and Strawberry Dash Challenge 5K T Written By: Kelsie Baerwalde
he success once again of the Strawberry Distance Challenge 5K and its new one-mile Dash has ensured another tradition for the closeknit Plant City community during the season when the Florida Strawberry Festival® will draw thousands of visitors to Central Florida.
9, at the Walden Lake fields starting point. And in the end, the smiles told the story for the 6th annual SDC5K.
Event beneficiary, The Youth Alliance (TYA), will use the proceeds to deliver powerful messages of hope and encouragement in cities across America. Mike Nelson, the non-profit organization’s COO, told the crowd, Saturday morning’s clear skies and “We believe your community’s greatest 51-degree temperature welcomed 370 assets are not in its buildings, but in the runners and walkers who rallied February students themselves.”
Sarah Holt, 45 of Plant City, was the female winner for the Master Division with a time of 23:45.
Race director Bruce Baerwalde was pleased with the more than doubled participation compared to 2012, but he added, “It’s not just the numbers. It’s about the community coming together and kicking off the strawberry season.”
So many had amazing stories about their realization of a goal. A motivated Amanda Holland, 26, shared, “I had heart TYA offers numerous presentations for surgery in…umm…November? I was a student populations, including anti- dancer before that, and I’m working to bullying programs. “By running in this get back there.” race,” Nelson encouraged, “participants help us to go where there is little or no Congratulations to our overall male funding to sustain such programs.” To and female champions, Mike Stewart learn more, visit www.theyouthalliance. of Redmond, Washington, a Boston com. Marathon qualifier, who finished in 19.07 minutes, and Crystal Harris of Lithia, Nelson expressed a huge thanks to Florida, with a time of 21.55. returning title sponsor Astin Farms and two presenting sponsors, New Generation View complete race results at www. Tees and I-4 Power Equipment, noting, coolrunning.com/results/13/fl/Feb9_ Strawb_set1.shtml.
Jennifer Williams, Julia Williams, and Chloe Pope smile. with Mr. Berry after the race
Mike Stewart, 49 of Redmond, WA, was the overall male winner of the race with a time of 19:07.
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Local Âť Focus
Photo by FL Strawberry Festival
2013 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen Scholarship Pageant T Written By: Deana Garrison
win the title of queen, she was also selected as Miss Congeniality. Miss Congeniality is the title given to the contestant that was voted by all the contestants as the one that shows great character. That is really impressive to take both titles. Not only did she win the hearts of the judges, she also won the hearts of the other contestants This year’s pageant was emceed by the 2006 with her friendly nature. Strawberry Queen Hannah Hodge Benton and radio personality, Skip Mahaffey. Kelsey is the daughter of Glenn and Kendra Harrell. She is a senior at Plant City High These lovely ladies began their quest early School. Her GPA is 5.48 and she is ranked in the day with a private interview with in the top 5% of her class. She is the captain the judges. Later that evening, they then of the Varsity Swim Team, the president paraded across the stage in front of a very of the Ronald McDonald Charity House large crowd to introduce themselves, as well Club, and the treasurer of the National as their sponsor. Later, they modeled casual Honor Society. When she won queen she wear as well as their elegant evening gowns. received many scholarships that will help her in her goal of majoring in marketing. Once again, the judges that were selected were highly qualified and have judged many 2012 Queen Chelsea Bowden and her top pageants. These judges knew what to court made their appearance together one look for and definitely had a tough decision last time before handing over their titles to to make. the new queen and court. Together they represented the Florida Strawberry Festival When all scores were tallied and the with great elegance. They definitely made coronation ceremony was held, the crown Plant City proud. went to Kelsey Fry. Not only did Kelsey he Plant City Lions Club sponsored the 78th annual Florida Strawberry Festival Queen Scholarship Pageant that was held January 26. The 25 contestants were judged on personal interview, personality, beauty, and poise.
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Check out over 100 photos of the event on the FOCUS Facebook page!
Other court members of the 2013 Court Together, these five ladies will represent the are First Maid Ericka Lott, Madison 2013 Florida Strawberry Festival and make Astin, Jamee Townsend, and Maddy Keene. Plant City proud.
Photo by FL Strawberry Festival
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Congratulations
Ericka Dianne Lott on your success as 2013 Florida Strawberry Festival First Maid
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Madison Brooke Astin 2013 FL Strawberry Festival Court Member
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foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Maddy Alyse Keene 2013 FL Strawberry Festival Court Member
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Jamee Lynn Townsend 2013 FL Strawberry Festival Court Member
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Samantha Kay Farkas Congratulations on making Top 10
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foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Congratulations, Ericka, our 2013 Strawberry Festival First Maid!
Your family and friends are so proud of you and wish you a year full of fun, excitement and incredible memories. Love, Mom and Dad, Trent, Jose, Chase, and Rex
Congratulations also to Queen Kelsey and the entire Court - you are all very beautiful and did a fantastic job. Thank you to the Lions Club, Kerrie Gafford, and Gail Lyons for all your time and hard work running the pageant.
You were a star every step of the way. We love you! 34
february 2013 focusplantcity.com
Congratulations Madison,
2013 Strawberry Festival Court Member
we are so proud of you and your accomplishments and are so blessed to have you in our lives! We love you so much, Daddy, Momma, Payton & Baylee foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
35
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Local » Focus Currently the eldest member of Plant City’s First Baptist Church, Betty attributes longevity to strong faith and to eating “good, fatty food every day, adding “I didn’t drink or smoke, worked ‘til I was 79, and I’ve tried to be a good person, to not do anything wrong.” Mary Lib Everidge Stine realizes now “Granny was trying to tire me out with those evening around-the-block walks” during overnight stays. “Afterward, we’d build a fire in her bedroom fireplace, lie in bed and tell stories - lots of wonderful memories made back then.” Jean Ann Taylor wrote, “I remember Granny’s tips about too much bread, facial cream at bedtime, and a nighttime honeymixed-with-apple-cider-vinegar drink. She also advised *Walk and laugh everyday, *Don’t watch the news if it makes you sad, and *Sometimes it’s fun to give the neighbors something to talk about. She’s a special lady with a sense of grace and dignity I’ll never forget.”
At her 100th birthday celebration, Betty was to be photographed with her four supportive sons. (L to R- James, Herbert, Cecil, and Buddy)
Betty Everidge Celebrates 108th Birthday P Written By: Cheryl Johnston
lant City’s most-senior citizen, Betty Everidge, celebrated her 108th birthday February 5, 2013 surrounded by her loving family in “the best place in the world to be” for nearly 96 years. In 1905 in Carrollton, Georgia, Elizabeth (“Lizzie”) Iula Rayburn was born the eldest of seven to parents who farmed peanuts, corn, and cotton. When Lizzie was 10, her 32-year-old mother died of pneumonia, and in 1917, after boll weevils destroyed their cotton, the family moved by train to Hopewell and Turkey Creek. Granddaughter Sharon Everidge McLin’s favorite Lizzie stories detailed horsedrawn surrey trips to church, town, square dances and family picnics, “just like the play Oklahoma!”
Friends had renamed Lizzie “Betty” by the time she first spotted good-looking Irvin Everidge. She tells, “Someone else wanted him, but I put in to get him, and I did.” Their 20-year-marriage before his 1945 death produced four sons - James, Cecil, Buddy, and Herbert. Betty soon learned to drive her ‘46 Chevrolet and lived 66 years in her Lemon St. /Palmetto Ave. home near the festival grounds.
who parked every year in her yard. We often listened to the music in her outdoor swing. Daddy (Cecil), James and Buddy took her to shows. George Jones was her favorite, and she still especially favors Southern gospel.”
would tell my grandmother how pretty she was. I knew she’d allow me some change from her purse for an ice cream cone at Dairy Cream. If I’d just asked, she’d have given me money, but I liked telling her how pretty she was anyway.”
“My granny was also a great Southern cook,” added Thomas. “For our big family’s Sunday-after-church meal she’d cook two meats, loads of vegetables, and homemade biscuits, cornbread and dessert. At 102, she was still cooking for her sons.”
Linda and her sister Carolyn Everidge chuckle about the first time, at her age 96, police stopped their adventurous Camarodriving grandmother on Grant Street for speeding. “Afterwards, we called her ‘Speedy,” explained Thomas, adding, “She was not amused.”
McLin recalls their favorites. “Buddy (my dad) liked the cornbread’s crust, so she made a large square one for him. She made strawberry cobbler for Cecil and dumplings for James and green beans for one son and pole beans for another.”
Following their visit for Betty’s 108th family birthday party, Sharon McLin recalled, “Granny’s smile - that’s the best! Also, whenever Jim took bacon to Granny, she’d say, ‘You don’t have to cook the grease out of it!” Of her grandmother’s legacy, Thomas said, “Her husband died when she was 35, which she thought was old at the time, and she pretty much raised four outstanding men. She was a great example to many, a wonderful God-fearing lady who taught us what is important: God and family.”
“Because of her Sunday dinners,” said grandson Chuck Everidge, “I still have those strong bonds today with my aunts, uncles and cousins. I remember her strength and the family structure she kept together. And we cousins loved climbing her azalea-surrounded oak trees. When I’d visit her before junior high football practice, she always had the treat I wanted and made sure I felt I was the greatest, that I could do anything.”
Granddaughter Linda Thomas recalls, “She Marc Everidge remembers those trees and loved the Festival and made many friends cousins, too. “When we finished playing, I
Church attendance was always an important aspect of Betty Everidge’s life. foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Local » Focus
Cooper Tharrington and Young Innovators Competition Judge Kevin Harrington, chairman of As Seen on TV, Inc. and TVGoods.com, author of “Act Now: How I Turn Ideas into Million-Dollar Products, and former panel member of ABC’s Shark Tank television series. Photo by Kelli Tharrington
Cooper Tharrington shows off her invention prototype, the Sound Asleep Clock, an idea that earned her top 10 honors at the Young Innovators Competition. Photo by Kelli Tharrington
ACooperBright Future Tharrington’s Invention Earns Top Ten Honors
W
Written By: Amanda Deck
hen Walden Lake Elementary School teacher Sandra Van Oosten asked each of her Advanced Gifted Placement students to invent a new product for the University of South Florida’s fifthannual Young Innovator Competition, fourth-grader Cooper Tharrington immediately knew what she would design. “She shares a bedroom with her little brother and he can’t tell time,” explained Kelli Tharrington, Cooper’s mother. “She wants to be able to sleep in on weekends, but her brother always wakes her up too early to play because he doesn’t know what time it is.”
50 inventions for the first stage of the Young Innovator Competition. On their entry forms, students provided sketches of their products and answered questions like “What problems or drawbacks made you want to make this invention?” “What is the closest existing technology to your invention?” and “How does the invention improve upon existing technology?” Peyton Strawn, Zach Hall, Kristen Ryan, Ashley Dunn, Ben Paquet, and Cooper were chosen as top 50 finalists and entered into the preliminary judging round where the top 10 finalists would be selected on Wednesday, January 30. Inventions were judged on the following criteria: creativity and originality, quality and persuasiveness of entrant’s reasoning on why the invention has value, benefit to people, and marketability of the invention. After much deliberation, judges from the National Academy of Inventors, USF Chapter chose Cooper and her Sound Asleep Clock as a top 10 finalist.
As a result, Cooper dreamed up the Sound Asleep Clock, the perfect solution to her reoccurring problem. This unique timetelling gadget would work like a normal alarm clock; however, it would be fitted with special colored lights: a red light advising Cooper’s 3-year-old brother to let her keep sleeping and a green light signifying it was an appropriate time to wake her up if he “I wasn’t expecting that phone call telling us wished. Cooper made the top 10,” said Kelli. “Not that her clock wasn’t a good idea, but there Along with Cooper’s Sound Asleep Clock, were so many other entries to choose from.” Walden Lake Elementary School submitted
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In fact, nearly 600 students of all ages— from elementary school to high school— attending schools across Hillsborough, Pinellas, Polk, Citrus, and Pasco counties submitted their inventions to the Young Innovators Competition.
Tank shows where the judges ask questions for more information on your product,” said Kelli. Although Martinez Middle School (Lutz, FL) seventh-grader Mica Jadick received the grand prize grants for her cereal container that removes unwanted crumbs, Cooper’s mother believes the contest was a great experience for her young daughter who held her own among junior and senior high students.
As a top 10 finalist, Cooper received an annual family membership pass to MOSI, a participation medal, and the opportunity to win a grand prize grant award of $1,000 to further research, education, and/or commercialization of her invention and a $1,000 grant for her school. “She was the first to present and she did it like a champ,” said Kelli. “She made On Monday, February 11, finalists in the everyone laugh and Bill Green even made top 10 gave presentations to a panel of six the comment that she was confident during judges, including inventor of the Workout her presentation. She loved it and had a 180 Total Body Transformation System great time.” and former Bay News 9 anchor Jennifer Holloway, veteran Home Shopping Congratulations to Cooper Tharrington Network host Bill Green, and chairman of for her success at the Young Innovators Competition. It’s safe to expect big things As Seen on TV, Inc. Kevin Harrington. from her in the future! “The top 10 competition was similar to the interviews on [ABC Network’s] Shark
Cooper Tharrington with Young Innovators Competition judge Jennifer Holloway, inventor of the Workout 180 Total Body Transformation System and former Bay News 9 anchor. Photo by Kelli Tharrington
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Local » Focus time. People like Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King Jr., Carter G. Woodson, and many more were quoted in a moving deliverance by these 6th, 7th, and 8th graders. Their instructor, Stanley Glover, mentioned, “…they are definitely a group of speakers, very confident once you get them in front of a crowd, no doubt.” Mayor Mike Sparkman showed up, giving a warm greeting from Plant City, to help advocate the City Community’s support behind the Black Heritage Foundation. “This is a phenomenal event with great food, great entertainment, and great guests,” he proclaimed with all smiles, ending his speech. Later on in the night, Steppin Stone’s choir sang “Amazing Grace” to lead the guests into the embrace of the taunting food along the sides of the banquet, allowing the guests to finally indulge in its temptation after everything had been said and done.
Jayvon Ankrom, Jaquez Green, Corey Green, Peyton Canyu, Felipe Pecina, Hunter Anderson, Ashton Mincey, and their advisor, Mr. Stanley Glover standing center over-the-shoulder. Photo by: Taylor Thomas
Heritage Recognitions Abound! Look No among the Tenth Annual Black Further! Heritage Festival F Written By: Taylor Thomas
ebruary 8th marked the beginning of another annual weekend-long Black Heritage Celebration held at Plant City’s very own campus of Hillsborough Community College.
The Black Heritage Festival ran from Friday the 8th thru Sunday the 10th, highlighting some of the historical founding roots and struggles of our more recent history, keeping them in remembrance and respect, whilst distributing several awards to those who have earned them. The theme for this year’s festival was, “Standing on the Shoulders of Giants.” The event was held in the Dr. Martin Luther King Recreation Center, with the intent of promoting cultural sensitivity & diversity.
asked to participate as the mistress of ceremonies, and she started the night with the audience’s combined efforts to sing, “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” That was shortly followed by Latisha Jones stepping foot onstage to give a mighty grace and prayer for the audience. The banquet had an astounding 40+ tables this year, clearly showing a guest increase from last year. “This year we have 360 guests, whereas last year we had 250. It’s quite bigger from last year,” says Moody.
The sponsors of the event this year came out to lend their support in various ways, such as Matrix Medical, the Rooms to Go Children’s fund, Amscot, Sweetbay Supermarket, the Strawberry Festival, and a personal thank-you from Cynthia Bailey Just walking in the door to the Recreation from Zeno Office Solutions providing all Center, the chairperson of the event, of the print work that was used during the Sharon Moody, greeted guests and directed banquet. them to their tables. Cynthia Bailey was sitting adjacent to her doing the same for Proceeding towards the middle of the the beginning of the event. event, Marshall Middle’s Gentleman’s Club came out to deliver powerful quotes of great Channel 10’s Ginger Gadsden was formally African-American figures on stage one at a
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A busy banquet taking place. Photo by: Taylor Thomas
In all of its excitement, the banquet was only the start of the Festival, and it would be continued with the Street Festival component on Saturday and Sunday. This part of the festival “…features a stage of local entertainment, unique artists, ethnic foods, and parade,” reads the banquet brochure.
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Local » Focus behavioral changes take time. We are investing in people face-to-face and planning for solutions together with them. For example, we teach families how to budget their money, how to save on items they need, and how to plan nutritious, lowcost meals.” Hickman added, “If we simply help with an electric bill or food, often we’re simply putting a band-aid on a bigger problem. We want to repair the need and people want to learn how to improve their situations. We can help them with the next step, with a short-term and long-term plan.” Pastors Glenn Culler (L) and Fred Wright (R) consult with PCCM Director Cheryl Hickman in preparation for the open house held February 4 at 103 Johnson Road. Photo by: Cheryl Johnston
Plant City Community Helping Families Stand Ministries P Written By: Cheryl Johnston
congregation, but we wanted to make a community impact. It’s a kingdom thing and it takes coordinated efforts. When we leave church, we should be ready to go out and take action. Anyone can be a Christian inside the four walls. We are excited to A group of pastors here determined see what God will do here through Plant recently to work together for solutions, City Community Ministries and all the which resulted in Plant City Community community helpers involved.” Ministries. From Monday through Friday, volunteer Since a seven-member steering presented advocates will help people and also the idea to the Shiloh Baptist Association, connect them with resources. Families and approximately 20 committed churches now individuals, seniors and the homeless, and donate time, money and other resources to even those struggling with addictions can assist in the unified effort. benefit here from: emergency food, gentlyused clothing, help with resume writing, Pastors Glenn and Lois Culler of the job training, budget planning, Celebrate Johnson Road Community Church Recovery classes, and assistance with involved their small congregation to Medicare/Medicaid and elderly housing provide and renovate the church’s education forms. building at 103 Johnson Road off SR 39. The 10-year Air Force veteran with a Additionally, pastors on-site will offer background in engineering encouraged his counseling for anyone dealing with members with “Let’s do something.” And addiction, grief, divorce or simply in need so they did. The faithful have invested not of compassionate advice. only time, but also approximately $6,000 in renovations, security and phone systems, Plant City connections made through the shelving and furniture. 2012 CareFest effort among area churches resulted in the new PCCM - a true Pastor Glenn shared, “In the process community resource organization centered we’ve discovered a bigger purpose and on Christian values. broader focus for our church. We’re a small astors of churches everywhere face a common dilemma: “How can we best serve those in need who come to our doors seeking help?”
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“When a client comes to us,” she continued, “we take them where they’re at and walk through their problems with them as we educate, train and help them to become productive once again. In turn, most desire to give back to help others.” Pastors Fred and Irene Wright of Cedar Grove Baptist Church also lead a community Bible study in the building on Thursday nights, with approximately 30 attending weekly now.
PCCM Director Cheryl Hickman also directs the Women’s Resource Center in Brandon, an organization she established ten years ago after experiencing needs like many of today’s clients. Once on her feet again, she was God-inspired and determined to assist others.
Hickman called the well-attended February 4 open house event “wonderful,” noting, “We had 20 volunteers to kick off the day and Pastor Glenn opened with prayer and thanksgiving. Generous folks and churches can help us right away with non-perishable food items to stock the food pantry and good business clothing/shoes She explained the new center’s philosophy. for the clothes closet. We also need Bibles, “We want to address the core issues of Christian books/CDs/DVDs, and office people in crisis and that process is long supplies. This really is a community effort.” term, depending on the need. It could take three months or three years because To get involved, call 813-754-5968 or stop by 103 Johnson Road. Blessings await!
Plant City Community ministries’ work in progress. Photo by: Cheryl Johnston
Isn’t it beautiful? Let’s keep it that way!
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Local » did you know
William Schneider, circa 1920 Photo courtesy of Plant City Photo Archives
WILLIAM SCHNEIDER A Legacy Remembered (1864 – 1940) - Part 1 of 2 submitted By: Plant City Photo Archives & History Center
W
illiam Schneider’s life was a busy one, and to remember his many contributions will take us on a journey that for him began with German ancestry and continued with stops in Philadelphia and Lancaster, Pennsylvania; Sanford and Seffner, Florida; Pennsylvania again; Plant City, Florida; and Apopka, Florida. It ended with a return to Plant City, Florida. The Plant City leg alone of Schneider’s journey lasted almost 35 years, and it was during that time that he became involved with Warnell Lumber and Veneer Company, the Bank of Plant City, the City Council, the First Presbyterian Church, and
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the Plant City School Board to name just a few. Let’s begin his journey. Schneider’s parents were John William and Katherine (Bader) Schneider. John William was born in Lautkirch, Germany, on March 11, 1823, and Katherine Bader was born in Albershausen, Germany, on May 29, 1832. Schneider’s parents left Wurtemburg, Germany, in about 1850 for Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, his father being in his late 20s and his mother in her late teens. Schneider’s parents would go on to have four children: J.H. (date of birth unknown), William ( June 14, 1864), and Albert (October 1, 1866). Details of the fourth child are not known.
Schneider was educated in the Philadelphia public school system. After graduating from high school he left for Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to publish a German-language newspaper with his brother, J. H. While in Lancaster, he met Lydia Martha Horting, who was born on July 8, 1864, to John Horting and Josephine Houghey. He and Lydia married in their early 20s on July 18, 1887, and had their only child, Josephine Horting Schneider, in early September 1890.
After a few years with Warnell Lumber and Veneer Company, Schneider broadened his ties to Plant City and became an organizer of the Bank of Plant City. This was the town’s second bank and was chartered in December 1906. The bank opened in 1907 in a building on Collins Street in the middle of the block across from what was then known as the Hillsboro State Bank. Schneider was not only an organizer but served as the bank’s president until 1913.
A few years after the birth of his daughter, Schneider again joined up with his brother, J. H., this time for the citrus packing houses that J. H. had established in Sanford and Seffner, Florida. Their venture was shortlived, however, because back-to-back freezes throughout the state in late December 1894 and early February 1895 destroyed much of the citrus crop, freezing all types of citrus fruit on the trees and splitting tree bark from top to bottom. These two freezes have gone down in history under one name, The Great Freeze, and it would take two decades for the citrus industry to reach pre-freeze production numbers. The Schneider brothers headed back to Pennsylvania.
During the years that Schneider was serving as president of the Bank of Plant City, his daughter, Josephine, graduated from Brenau College in Gainesville, Georgia, in 1909, and married Bennett Land on January 11, 1912. She was 21 and he was 12 years her senior. Land was a North Carolina native and was born on January 17, 1878, to Dr. Henry Gaskins Land and Sarah Jane Poyner Land. Land graduated from North Carolina State University in 1903 and was a division engineer for Seaboard Airline Railway, which had offices in Jacksonville and Tampa.
In 1900, J. H. went on to New York City to establish a fruit and vegetable commission firm and Schneider returned to Florida to purchase fruit for that firm. In November 1901 Schneider moved his family to Plant City. The family home was built on land located at 411 North Collins Street and purchased from Edward (S. E.) Mays, who by 1908 was the largest individual real estate owner in Plant City. Years later that location was made into a parking lot and the Schneider house was moved to 1008 Gilchrist Street. Shortly after moving to Plant City, Schneider purchased an interest in Warnell Lumber and Veneer Company, a firm that manufactured vegetable crates and fruit baskets. Warnell had relocated to Plant City in 1898 from Warnell, Florida, bringing jobs to construct the physical plant and to work in the production departments. This was a great boon to the area, which was still recovering from the Great Freeze as well as the yellow fever epidemic that struck Plant City in 1887. When Schneider came on board, he acted as general superintendent of the mill. His younger brother, Albert, had purchased his interest in the company in 1900 and was the soliciting agent who kept the crate and basket orders coming in from Pennsylvania to the West Indies and places in between.
The Lands resided in Jacksonville and Plant City until 1922 and then moved to Apopka, where two years earlier Land had purchased an interest in Consumers Lumber and Veneer Company, a box-manufacturing firm. The Lands went on to have nine children: Henry William; Bennett, Jr.; Lydia; John; Catherine and James, twins; Mary; and Josephine and Sarah Jane, deceased as infants. Schneider, meanwhile, became a member of the City Council, serving from 1908 to 1915. On November 8, 1915, Schneider bid the City Council farewell as former chairman. Ever vigilant, his parting address included excellent suggestions and a statement of the city’s financial condition. Schneider was also a member of various fraternal organizations such as the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Woodmen of the World, Red Men, and the Patriotic Order Sons of America of which he was state president in 1911. Schneider was also a charter member of the Kiwanis Club, which was organized in 1921 and was Plant City’s first men’s civic club. We will pause at this stage of Schneider’s journey for a respite and will complete the trip in next month’s issue.
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Local » chamber of commerce
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february 2013 focusplantcity.com
GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE submitted By: Brian West
event will be sponsored by FOCUS Magazine and held at Keel and Curley at 2003 W. Thonotosassa Rd. The Business After Hours is usually held the third Thursday of each month. The Business After Hours is hosted by a current Chamber member, and provides an opportunity to network and just spend time with each other in a casual environment. If The Strawberry Classic Car Show will you’ve never attended a Business After be held on Saturday, February 16 from Hours event, come out to Keel and Curley 4 – 8 p.m. in Historic Downtown Plant and spend some time with everyone. City. The car show features cars that are at least 25 years old, with many classics The Bike Show will be held on Saturday, on hand from the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s. This March 2 in Historic Downtown Plant City is a great family event if you’re looking from 5 – 9 p.m. The show features hundreds for a relaxing evening. Several of the of bikes from all over, with everyone riding downtown merchants are open longer in for a relaxing afternoon in downtown. hours to accommodate the crowds. You’ll For the enthusiast, there are bikes of all probably run into many of your friends and styles, makes, models, and both new and neighbors. There are several food vendors, old. The show is always a little different, but and the atmosphere is great. there are often antique bikes where owners have spent countless hours restoring them The new Chamber members this month to their former glory. And like the Car include: Show, many of the downtown merchants • Total Merchant Services held their ribbon are open longer hours to accommodate the cutting at 11 a.m. on February 5 at the crowds. Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce • Allen and Co. held their ribbon cutting at The 40th Annual Youth Parade will be held 11 a.m. on February 7 at the Greater Plant on Saturday, March 2 at 11 a.m. For more City Chamber of Commerce information, please contact Pat Pogue at • Helping Hands, Caring Hearts held their 813-754-4680. ribbon cutting at 11 a.m. on February 14 at 110 W. Reynolds St., Suite 106 The Plant City Community Choir will • Edward Jones – Jeff Dove will hold his present Music of the Night on Saturday, ribbon cutting at 11 a.m. on February 15 at March 2 at 7 p.m. at Saint Clement 1953 State Rd. 60 E. Catholic Church. For more information, • Best Western Plus will hold their ribbon please call 813-493-1979. cutting at 5:15 p.m. on February 19 at 2003 S. Frontage Rd. The Florida Strawberry Festival Parade will • Florida Traditions Bank will hold their be held on Monday, March 4 at 1 p.m. The ribbon cutting at 11 a.m. on February 20 at parade will begin in Historic Downtown 1907 James L. Redman Parkway. Plant City and progress west on Reynolds St., then to Hwy. 574 towards the festival Come join everyone to learn a little grounds. about each business, wish them luck and participate in the ribbon cutting. The Baby Parade will be held on Saturday, March 9 at the Florida Strawberry Festival The Greater Plant City Chamber of at 10 a.m. Commerce will be holding their monthly Business After Hours on Thursday, February 21 from 5:15 – 10 p.m. The
CHAMBER ribbon cuttings Children’s Board Family Resource Center at East County 639 East Alexander Street Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 752-8700
Elite Credit Solutions P.O. Box 3535 Plant City, FL 33563 813-484-0381 www.elitecreditsolutions.com
Mr. BG & Friends Jerry Crabb, Owner www.mrbgandfriends.com (863) 797-3900
RaceTrac 1722 James L. Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33563
Total Merchant Services www.thefreeterminal.com (813) 833-7425
Wells Memorial & Event Center 19032 West Reynolds Street Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 752-1111 www.wellsmemorial.com
Allen & Company Chad Jones, Financial Advisor 1401 South Florida Avenue Lakeland, FL 33803 (863) 616-6054 http://www.alleninvestments.com
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Sweeter Wait Times
Why wait for emergency care? The Brandon Regional Hospital Emergency Center at Plant City is a full-service emergency facility offering convenient and quick access to: • Wait times by texting “ER” to 23000 or visiting PlantCityER.com • On-site, state-of-the-art radiology and laboratory services. We also provide the community with convenient access to advanced healthcare services at Brandon Regional Hospital including:
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foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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610 N. Alexander Street (The Cynergy Church) Plant City, FL 33563
Save $2.00 on Adult & $1.00 on Youth General Admission Tickets at Sweetbay Supermarkets! FEB. 28 - MAR. 10, 2013 • PLANT CITY, FLORIDA
FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
®
Artists Appearing on the Soundstage: Order: www.flstrawberryfestival.com or 813-754-1996
Thu. Feb. 28 10:30 Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra FREE Thu. Feb. 28 3:30 Chubby Checker $15 & $20 Thu. Feb. 28 7:30 FOREIGNER $25 Fri. Fri.
Mar. 1 Mar. 1
3:30 7:30
Gene Watson Casting Crowns
$15 & $20 $20 & $25
Sat. Mar. 2 Sat. Mar. 2 Sat. Mar. 2
1:00 3:30 7:30
Caroline Kole Gloriana Justin Moore
FREE $15 & $20 $15 & $20
Sun. Mar. 3 Sun. Mar. 3
3:30 7:30
Randy Houser Alan Jackson
$15 & $20 $45
Mon. Mar. 4 Mon. Mar. 4
3:30 7:30
Grits & Glamour with Lorrie Morgan/Pam Tillis Dwight Yoakam
$15 & $20 $20 & $25
Tues. Mar. 5 Tues. Mar. 5
3:30 7:30
Bobby Vinton Martina McBride
$15 & $20 $30
Wed. Mar. 6 Wed. Mar. 6
3:30 7:30
Neal McCoy Trace Adkins
$15 & $20 $30
Thu. Thu. Thu.
Mar. 7 10:30 Mar. 7 3:30 Mar. 7 7:30
Steve Hall & the Shotgun Red Show Mel Tillis Brantley Gilbert
FREE $15 & $20 $35
Fri. Fri.
Mar. 8 Mar. 8
3:30 7:30
T.G. Sheppard/Janie Fricke Scotty McCreery
$15 & $20 $25 & $30
Sat. Mar. 9 Sat. Mar. 9
3:30 7:30
Gaither Vocal Band Bret Michaels Get Your Rock On 2013
$20 & $25 $25 & $30
Hunter Hayes Blake Shelton
$15 & $20 $55
Sun. Mar. 10 3:30 Sun. Mar. 10 7:30
BLAKE SHELTON
ALAN JACKSON
BRET MICHAELS
GLORIANA
DWIGHT YOAKAM
MARTINA McBRIDE
Get Your Rock On 2013
TRACE ADKINS
SCOTTY McCREERY
BRANTLEY GILBERT
JUSTIN MOORE
BOBBY VINTON
GENE WATSON
C o n c e r t d a t e s a n d t im e s a r e s u b j e c t t o c h a n g e
Free Grandstand Seating at 3:30 & 7:30pm is on a first come, Mobile App. first seated basis.
BELLE CITY MIDWAY HIGHLIGHTS Thu. Feb. 28 Ride-A-Thon - $20 - Noon - 11 pm Fri. Mar. 1 Sweetbay Supermarket Day on the Midway - Noon - 10 pm. Present any “My Essentials” non-perishable item at gate. Get $4 off Fun Pack Ride Coupon Book Moonlight Magic - $20 - 10 pm - 2 am Sat. Mar. 2 Kid’s Day - All Day Free Admission for Kids through High School Sun. Mar. 3 Mountain Dew Family Day - $5 off with Mountain Dew can - Ride all day for $20
Ride-A-Thon - $20 - 10 am - 11 pm Ride-A-Thon - $20 - Noon - 11 pm Ride-A-Thon - $20 - Noon - 11 pm Ride-A-Thon - $20 - Noon - 11 pm Tampa Tribune & TBO.com Day Noon - 10 pm, $2 Off Fun Pack Ride Coupon Book. Get Extra $2 Off same Book with a Tampa Tribune or TBO.com Discount Coupon Moonlight Magic - $20 - 10 pm - 2 am Sun. Mar. 10 Mountain Dew Family Day - $5 off
Mon. Mar 4 Tues. Mar. 5 Wed. Mar. 6 Thu. Mar. 7 Fri. Mar. 8
with Mountain Dew can - Ride all day for $20
The Midway opens daily at 12 noon
except on Sat., Sun. & Mon., when it opens at 10:00 a.m.
HUNTER HAYES
NEAL McCOY
GAITHER VOCAL BAND
FESTIVAL FAVORITES
• Dennis Lee • Jay Taylor Band • The Sweeney Family Band Country Comedy Revue • Ron Diamond • Kandu Magic Show • World Champion Lumberjills • JUMP! The Ultimate Dog Show • RUNA PACHA “Indian World” • Robinson’s Racing Pigs and Paddling Porkers • Rock-It the Robot
LORRIE MORGAN Grits and Glamour
PAM TILLIS
Grits and Glamour
RANDY HOUSER
CHUBBY CHECKER
FOREIGNER
T.G. SHEPPARD
JANIE FRICKE
MEL TILLIS
Grow Financial FCU
AMERICAN HEROES DAY
RED HAT SOCIETY DAY Tues, Mar, 5th $2 Off Regular Gate Admission
Wed. Mar. 6th
All Active, Reserve, Retired Military, Military Veterans, Law Enforcement, First Responders (EMS & Fire Fighters) admitted Free all day with a valid ID
Florida Blue
SENIOR CITIZEN’S DAYS FREE CONCERTS Thurs, Feb 28th The Jimmy Sturr Orchestra Thurs, Mar 7th Steve Hall & The Shotgun Red Show Concerts 10:30am
CASTING CROWNS
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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“Farm Credit gives us one-stop shopping for our farm, residence and vacation home.”
Justin, Jenny and Tres McQuaig. Standing; Farm Credit of Central Florida Residential Mortgage Manager, Vonda Fulwood. Financing for: • Residential Mortgages • Crop Insurance • Agricultural Loans • Leasing for Equipment & Vehicles
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Loans for land, homes & country living foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
53
Florida Strawberry Festival
What’s New at the Florida Strawberry Festival Written by Amanda Deck
Whether the delectable strawberry shortcake, award-winning headline entertainment, diverse agricultural contests, or thrilling midway attractions, there’s plenty of reasons why the Florida Strawberry Festival ranks among the top 40 fairs in North America. Although there may be that one certain thing bringing you back to the festival year after year, there’s always something new to experience.
for a hand-clappin’ foot-stompin’ good time. This hysterical, interactive band devoted to providing quality bluegrass music and classic comedy formed in 2004 in the heart of the Florida Everglades and has left audiences throughout the country laughing with their simple-minded, backwoods humor ever since.
JUMP! The Ultimate Dog Show
On Grounds Entertainment Daily at 1 p.m., 4 p.m. & 8 p.m. This high-energy, action-packed thrill show features talented canines who have been adopted from various animal shelters throughout the United States—including Nubs, a three-legged, long-jumping pit bull. From remarkable Frisbee tricks to aweinspiring high jump stunts performed to So when you’re not chowing down on a upbeat music, you’ll for sure leave amazed. piece of fried corn on the cob, rocking out at the Wish Farms Soundstage, showing off your prized steer, or taking a spin on the SouthWest Dairy Farmers Ferris wheel, be sure to check out what’s Milking Show On Grounds Entertainment new at the Florida Strawberry Festival: Daily at 11 a.m, 1 p.m., 3 p.m. & 5 p.m. and adults will enjoy this The Sweeney Family Band Country Children informative presentation on the entire cowComedy Revue milking process, from start to finish. Learn Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent how milk goes from cow to breakfast table! Daily at 12 p.m., 3 p.m. & 6 p.m. * No 6 p.m. show on March 3 Join Slim, Skeeter, and Little Buck Sweeney
Next Radical Generation
The Sweeney Family Band will be performing their comedic musical routine everyday at the 2013 Florida Strawberry Festival.
Steve Hill and Shotgun Red will be performing a One Day Only show on March 7 at 10:30 a.m. on the Wish Farms Soundstage.
“We work hard each year to make the festival better,” said KeeLee Tomlinson, Florida Strawberry Festival Public Relations and Media Representative. “We listen to our patrons because we want them to enjoy themselves with their family and friends. That’s our main priority.”
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Next Radical Generation will be performing a One Night Only show on March 2 at 7 p.m. Don’t miss out on this local musical group! Photo by Deanna Hurley
february 2013 focusplantcity.com
Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent March 2 at 7 p.m. One Night Only! Join this dynamic group of young Plant City artists who have a passion to sing and a heart for the community. In addition to performing today’s most popular songs, you may also hear N.R.G.’s original masterpiece “Never Gonna Stop Us.”
Steve Hall & The Shotgun Red Show
decided to combine their unique talents and warm the hearts of listeners wherever they go. “Whether performing on a big stage, jamming on the back porch, or simply playing to friends and family around a campfire, Kari and Billy are seeking to bring back the simplicity and wholesome feel of great melodies and relatable lyrics.”
Fried Corn on the Cob Team Eating Contest
Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent March 1 at 1 p.m. Multiple teams of two will gather for Wish Farms Soundstage this exciting contest featuring a Florida March 7 at 10:30 a.m. Shotgun Red has decided to take a break Strawberry Festival favorite—fried corn on from his televised variety show to perform the cob. Stop by the tent early to sign up! One Day Only on Seniors’ Day at the Florida Strawberry Festival. This lovable Strawberry Mashed Potato Pie puppet and his co-host, Steve Hall, will be Eating Contest sure to entertain all ages. Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent March 8 at 12 p.m. This unique contest combines Plant City’s Kari and Billy choice fruit with the popular comfort food. Borden Dairy Strawberry Tent Stop by the tent early to take part in this March 8 and 9 at 6 p.m. These successful musical stars recently exciting competition!
NOW OFFERING PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY! For 41 years the Busciglio Family has been creating picture perfect smiles! Dr. John Busciglio began the family legacy in 1972 when he opened the first fulltime orthodontic practice in the Brandon area. As he retired this year, his children, Drs. Derek and Dana Busciglio, have picked up where their father left off. They will oversee Busciglio Smiles offices in Brandon and Plant City and just opened practice in FishHawk Ranch, 16321 FishHawk Boulevard, Lithia. The Busciglios and their staff held a grand opening event and fund-raiser a few months ago featuring the Newsome High School Marching Band led by Christian Finch. With the help of the MOMS Club of Lithia-Bevis, the office held a raffle for Invisalign braces, raising $2,560 for new uniforms for the band. There’s no sibling rivalry between this brother and sister. In fact, they’re more than willing to boast about one another’s accomplishments. After 12 years of schooling, Dr. Dana has earned a Dental Degree, a Pediatric Dental degree, an Orthodontic Degree and is Board Certified in Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Dana is equally proud of her brother’s role as Invisalign’s Sunshine Regional Educator. Busciglio Smiles was the first “elite provider” for Invisalign in eastern Hillsborough County. “We have remarkable results with this aesthetic option for straightening teeth,” said Derek Busciglio, who, like his sister, received his degree in dentistry and orthodontics from the prestigious Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston. “When Invisalign first entered the market in 1999, my dad was one of the first practitioners to use the system. Now we are taking It to the next level in terms of treatment types and results.” It’s not just teens who are seeking this clear alternative to straightening teeth. “We also treat a lot of adults, probably 30 percent of our practice,” he said. He said the cost is comparable to traditional braces. However, the treatment time with Invisalign averages 12-15 months, as compared to the 18-24 months required for regular braces. It’s not just teens who are seeking this clear alternative to braces. The Busciglios also are committed to educating children on good oral health with the help of the “tooth fairy.” Complete with wings and fairy dust, certified dental and orthodontic assistant Christine Freeman provides tooth fairy visits to schools and children’s parties, presenting educational skits and handing out goody bags containing a toothbrush, toothpaste, a floss threader, toothbox, stickers and a bracelet.
16321 Fishhawk Blvd. Lithia, FL 33547
515 Corner Street • Brandon • 813-681-9473
0003248779-01
NEW FISHHAWK LOCATION
FAMILY FIRST!
623 E. Alexander St., Plant City • at Alexander Crossings Plaza • 813-759-9474 foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Florida Strawberry Festival
Kay Varnum
Associate Director - Florida Strawberry Festival® Written by Cheryl Johnston
Kay Varnum thoroughly enjoys her role as an Associate Director of the Florida Strawberry Festival®, one she’s embraced since her election in 2002. “I just love being with the people of the Festival,” said the Plant City native and former Strawberry Festival Queen (1985). “Katie” grew up in a family whose roots run deep in agriculture and education. Varnum, a stay-at-home mom, is the daughter of Joe and Velma Newsome, and has been married 24 years to husband Scott. Their three children have been involved with showing livestock at the Festival over the years. Mitchell, 22, and Claybo, 19, both attend Florida Southern College, and daughter Jessi Rae, 17, is a Durant High School junior, FFA member and cheerleader. Both Scott and son Claybo coach football at DHS as well.
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The Florida Strawberry Festival® organization is managed and governed by the unpaid board of 16 directors and 14 associate directors, with assistance from only a few year-round, paid staffers. Replacements are selected when a director resigns to become a director emeritus or passes away. Directors and associate directors serve on committees to accomplish the necessary work that results in the Festival’s continuing success. “To be nominated and elected for this position is a great honor,” said Varnum. “I have enjoyed seeing how much the Festival has evolved - it just gets better and better each year.”
continued next page
Kay Varnum and Sandee Sytsma at the 2011 Junior Royalty pageant. Photo by Deanna Hurley
And Varnum definitely appreciates the invaluable assistance she receives from banquet committee members Stephany Brower and Leslie Poppell. feel very welcome and appreciated with the great information she provides. Her Director Phil Waldron complimented Katie organizational skills are definitely an asset on her contributions to the organization to the board and she does an outstanding during her 11 years of service when he job in accomplishing all she does. She’s a said, “Katie’s very heart is in the Festival. team player and we definitely appreciate her She has the desire, the intelligence and talents and efforts.” the personality to help our Festival visitors
Florida Strawberry Festival
The Varnum Family (L-R): Mitchell, Scott, Jessi Rae, Kay and Claybo Photo submitted by Kay Varnum
She added, “The involvement of our 3,000 Additionally, Varnum focuses time and to 4,000 volunteers is what pulls our energy on the agricultural aspects of the annual event. “I assist with the swine community together.” and steer shows. We keep track of all the Her present responsibilities include assisting exhibitors and their placement results in Sandee Sytsma with the Strawberry the shows. Afterwards, I am the chairman Festival’s queen and court. “I basically do (organizer) of the Steer and Swine Banquet anything she needs me to. Some examples for the exhibitors, their parents, and the are chaperoning the girls for interviews, livestock buyers. Winners receive their photo shoots, luncheons, etc., helping with placement checks at the banquet, along their wardrobe, lining up hair and makeup with any awards they have earned. We also artists for the festival, and so on. I also assist give out scholarships. All of this is very and help chaperone the girls during the generously sponsored either by the Festival, local businesses, or families in our town. festival for their daily activities.” The Varnums surround Jessi Rae who won the title of Durant FFA Sweetheart at Durant High School in 2011. Photo submitted by Kay Varnum
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Queen & Court Meet The 2013 Florida Strawberry Festival
Interviews by Brian West Photography by Anthony Sassano
O
ur 2013 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen and her Court have been selected. Kelsey Fry, 2013 Queen, Ericka Lott, First Maid and Maddy Keene, Madison Astin and Jamee Townsend are court members. These young ladies will represent Plant City leading up to, during and after the 2013 Florida Strawberry Festival. You’ll see them all dressed together wearing coordinating outfits, and having a great time with everyone and everything. I recently found them all getting ready for one of the very first photo shoots and pulled them to the side for a few quick questions in between hair, makeup and eyelashes. foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Each year, everyone in Plant City looks forward to the annual competition to become the next Florida Strawberry Festival Queen. The pageant is a major fundraiser for the Plant City Lions Club, and once the Queen has been crowned, she and her court are passed to the Florida Strawberry Festival to begin a whirlwind of shopping for the clothes they’ll wear, attending events, making guest appearances, and speaking with the media to promote the Florida Strawberry Festival. Each year, we’re so fortunate to find 5 young ladies that will best represent Plant City and the Florida Strawberry Festival, and each year we find ourselves wondering if we can find 5 young ladies that are as good as the previous year – and we do. I recently had a few minutes with this year’s Florida Strawberry Festival Queen, Kelsey Fry. Focus: Where did you get the interest in competing for Strawberry Queen? Fry: We first moved to Plant City when I was in the eighth grade. I immediately realized that I was eligible to compete for Strawberry Queen. My dad would ask if I wanted to move to Plant City or stay in Brandon, but I definitely wanted to be in Plant City. Competing for Strawberry Queen was just something I always wanted to do. Focus: What was the toughest aspect of preparing for the competition? Fry: Preparing for the interview with the judges, and not being worried about it. I worked with a coach about 4 times, and my mom would ask me random questions while we were driving in the car. I’d answer, and then she’d say, “Ok, now make sure you say that in your interview.” Focus: Share with me your overall experience from the night of the competition. Fry: My experience was probably a lot different from the other girls. I had a terrible cold. I was dying back stage. But I think it helped, because I wasn’t stressing out about everything. I was too worried about getting tissues when I needed them. I kept telling myself, ‘Don’t cough. Don’t cough.’ And I could feel a cough coming. But I made it through. I remember getting off stage and just coughing away. The whole experience of being on stage and doing your walk was nice. I could hear people cheering, and during the evening wear portion everyone gets to wear the dress that they love so much, and everyone gets to see it. So that was fun.
Queen
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Kelsey Morgan Fry february 2013 focusplantcity.com
Focus: Was there a memorable moment for you, aside from being crowned? Fry: When they called us down for the top 10, and we entered the stage from the audience, that was nice because I could finally see the people I know without the glare of the stage lights. It was really nice to see people and know that they were there for me. I was able to hear my swim team yelling for me, and when I was in the audience getting ready for the top 10, I could finally see where they were sitting. They were literally in the back corner of the bleachers. Focus: Have you competed in any other pageants? Fry: I did Calendar Girl once and I was selected for Miss March. That was my junior year of high school. I competed in Strawberry Queen last year and made it into the top ten, but that’s all my pageant experience. Focus: So describe what life has been like in the two short weeks you’ve been Strawberry Queen. Fry: I thought I was busy before, and now I’ve realized that I wasn’t busy at all. I know that people recognize me more, now. I go into Publix and people will say, “Oh my gosh. You’re Kelsey Fry.” That’s pretty cool. People seem to know my name now and that’s just fun. Focus: So what kinds of things have you done in these first two weeks? Fry: We’ve been to three shopping malls and closed them every time. I think we’re done with our shopping now. I think we’ve spent all of our money. It didn’t take long. Focus: So what is next on your schedule? Fry: We have the Taste of Florida breakfast and the Governor’s Luncheon later that day. We also have the Celebrity Chef Dinner coming up. Focus: What are you looking forward to most about the Florida Strawberry Festival? Fry: I’m really looking forward to experiencing the festival from a different perspective. I’ve been to the festival every year of my life, and it should be a lot of fun to experience it this year as Strawberry Queen. We’ll get to not only see the parade, but also be in the parade. I’ve never done that before. So it’s just going to be a great experience. Focus: Which entertainer are you most excited to see? Fry: Scotty McCreary. I called it. I called it when he was on American Idol. As soon as I saw his audition I said, ‘He’s gonna win.’ I watched American Idol that season basically for him. I’m also looking forward to seeing Casting Crowns. I’ve seen them before and they put on a great concert. And of course, Martina McBride because she’s perfect. Focus: If you wanted to give advice to girls competing for Strawberry Queen next year, what advice would you give them? Fry: Don’t stress out over it. Don’t work so much to prepare that you don’t have fun and your answers are rehearsed. Just have fun and be yourself. Don’t try to be someone you’re not.
Focus: Is there anything that you’re nervous about as Strawberry Queen? Fry: No, I don’t really get nervous. Maybe the polka dancing. I’ve heard that they sling you around everywhere. Focus: What does your family think about all of this? Fry: My sisters have worn my crown around the house more than I have ever worn the crown. My sister was sitting on the couch one morning eating a bowl of cereal, and wearing the crown. I asked her, ‘Do you really need to wear that all the time?’ My dad likes it. He’s always been a great support for me. Last year, when I competed, I was told I could have one try at Calendar Girl and one try at Strawberry Queen, and I had to pick which years I was going to compete for each of them. I wanted to compete in both of them my junior year and I remember after making it to the top 10, but not making it into the court, my dad said, “Well, you can do it again next year if you want to.” [Laughing] So he caved. My mom is just so, so, happy. Everyone in Plant City has called her. So she’s been on the phone a lot talking to everyone. She’s just excited to be there to help us when we need it. She’s taken tons of pictures already. Focus: Tell me about your plans after you graduate this year? Fry: I have been recruited by the University of West Florida, in Pensacola. So I will be swimming for them. I’m a sprinter, so I swim the 50 free, 100 free and 200 free, and I also compete in the relays. I like swimming a lot and I’ve been swimming competitively for about 4 years, which really isn’t a lot compared to everyone else on my team who have been doing it their entire lives. Focus: Do you know what you want to study in college? Fry: Yes, Marketing. I’d like to focus on the agriculture side of marketing. I’d like to come back to Plant City and use what I’ve learned to help other businesses. Focus: Where did you get the interest in agricultural marketing? Fry: Obviously Plant City is known for its agriculture. My dad is in the agriculture business, so that’s probably what inspired me. Focus: And why would you like to come back to Plant City? There are a lot of other towns with agriculture. Fry: Plant City just feels different from everywhere else. You can visit other towns and they’re nice, but they just don’t have the same feel that Plant City does. Plant City has its own distinct way of doing things, and I just love everything about it. Kelsey was a joy to speak with. She’s beautiful, full of energy, sweet, smiles constantly and will represent Plant City very well this year. If you have the opportunity, introduce yourself to her. There’s no doubt she’ll smile and tell you how nice it was to meet you. Congratulations, Kelsey. We hope you have a wonderful year as our 2013 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen.
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Focus: Which high school are you attending? Lott: Plant City. Focus: Which year are you in? Lott: I’m a junior. Focus: What are your plans after high school? Lott: I plan to attend a 4-year college, and that will depend on where I get accepted. I want to major in photography. My mom picked up photography a few years ago. She got a really nice camera, so I started messing around with it, and Stephanie Humphrey takes photos with our family and she inspired me to pursue it. I’ve played soccer my whole life but I think I’m getting to the point of wanting to play it more recreationally than competitively, so I don’t think I’ll be playing soccer in college. I think my life is leading me down a different path. Focus: How long have you been interested in competing to be the Florida Strawberry Queen? Lott: I’d never done a pageant before. Two years ago, I’d have never pictured myself in this position. I have brothers and played sports. I’ve been more on the Tom-boy side. Everyone knows that. My mom convinced me to do Calendar Girl in September. I did, and I had a lot of fun and I won Calendar Girl. So we talked about Strawberry Queen and decided I’d do it. Focus: What was a memorable experience for you from the pageant? Lott: It was really fast. I was really nervous for the interview. I was shaking and so scared. I didn’t know these people, and just walking into a room and knowing that these people are going to judge everything I do was a little intimidating. But once I got in there, it was so much fun. The judges had a great time. They were just normal people. They weren’t trying to beat me or catch me on anything. It was a great experience and it helped me to know that doing a pageant isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being yourself and being able to represent Plant City. Focus: What are you looking forward to next? Lott: There are so many things planned for us, but I guess I’m looking forward to the entertainment at the Strawberry Festival, like Hunter Hayes, Justin Moore and of course, Blake Shelton.
First Maid
Ericka Dianne Lott foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Focus: Which high school are you attending? Astin: Durant. Focus: Which year are you in? Astin: I’m a senior. Focus: What are your plans after high school? Astin: I’ve been accepted to the University of Tampa. I plan to attend in the fall and major in Business Marketing, and hopefully earn my Masters degree. I’ve grown up on a family farm, and a lot goes into the business portion of owning a strawberry farm, so I’d like to help out in marketing the berries. Focus: How long have you been interested in competing to be the Florida Strawberry Queen? Astin: I have been to so many pageants over the years, and was always in awe of them. I’ve had aunts and cousins that competed, my mom competed and one of my aunts actually won Strawberry Queen. So it’s just been something that I’ve always looked forward to pretty much my whole life. It’s such an honor. It’s not just about being on the court, but about being able to represent Plant City. Focus: What was a memorable experience for you from the pageant? Astin: I just had a fun time. I got to do the pageant with my best friend, Emily Gonzalez. It was a lot of fun. We had our mirrors decorated, we were on the same side of the room to get dressed and we got to help each other. So it was just a lot of fun to do the pageant with her. Focus: What are you looking forward to next? Astin: I’m excited about being part of the Strawberry Festival family; making new friends, meeting new people. I’m just looking forward to being someone that people will look up to.
Court Member
Madison Brooke Astn foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Focus: Which high school are you attending? Keene: Plant City. Focus: Which year are you in? Keene: I’m a junior. Focus: What are your plans after high school? Keene: I’m undecided about what I want to pursue. I know I want to go to a major university, and I think that Chemical Engineering could be good for me. I really enjoy science and it’s the subject I really enjoy learning about. I’ve had a really great teacher for the past two years. I also have a new Physics teacher this year. Both of my teachers have just been so good. They make me want to learn. Focus: How long have you been interested in competing to be the Florida Strawberry Queen? Keene: I just always remember seeing the Strawberry Queen and Court when I went to the festival or went to the parade and thought, ‘Wow! That would be so awesome.’ But I never really put a lot of thought to it, because I’m just not a pageant-type of girl. Then I did Calendar Girl and it was a lot of fun, so I decided that I wanted to do Strawberry Queen. I knew it would be such an honor if I were selected to the court. Focus: What was a memorable experience for you from the pageant? Keene: When we were in the sound proof room, which was really the RV parked next to the building, watching the girls trying to get up the narrow stairs in our big dresses was funny. Focus: What are you looking forward to next? Keene: I’m looking forward to seeing the festival from the other side curtain; from behind the scenes.
Court Member
Maddy Alyse Keene foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Focus: Which high school are you attending? Townsend: Strawberry Crest. Focus: Which year are you in? Townsend: I’m a senior. Focus: What are your plans after high school? Townsend: I want to play colligate volleyball, hopefully at Saint Leo University. I’m actually going there for an overnight visit with the team, so that will be a deciding factor. I want to major in International Business because I want the global background. After I graduate from Saint Leo, I’d like to attend the University of Florida to study Environmental Law. I’ve grown up in agriculture and people have always asked me if I wanted to be a farmer when I grow up. I want to stay in agriculture, but I think that job security can be sketchy with a lot of the agriculture industry. So I think that Environmental Law will give me a way to work in agriculture if I want to, or I can use my International Business degree to focus on Environmental Law from a global perspective Focus: How long have you been interested in competing to be the Florida Strawberry Queen? Townsend: I was actually a contestant in the Little Miss Plant City when I was in the fifth grade. I got in the court that year and we did appearances at some of the local events. We’d see the Strawberry Queen and Court and we’d look up to them. So I can remember when we were on stage at the end of our year and the announcer said, “This is going to be the Strawberry Queen and Court one day.” So then I always wanted to move up to the big girl court. Focus: What was a memorable experience for you from the pageant? Townsend: During the interview, the judges noticed in my bio that I show beef cattle at the festival, so they wanted me to tell them about it. One of the judges asked, “What’s a heifer?” I explained that it’s a female cow that hasn’t had a baby. After they have a baby, they’re just a cow. Then it gets a little more awkward and he asks, “And a male is?” I explained that a male that has not been castrated is a bull and a male that has been castrated is a steer. So they all laughed. Then later, one of the female judges asked, “What’s FFA?” They all laughed at her and she said, “Well at least I knew what a heifer was.” It was just funny. Focus: What are you looking forward to next? Townsend: I’m looking forward to the baby parade. I love seeing all the cute babies, and I think it’s one of the chances for us to really interact with the community on a large scale. And some of those children could be future Strawberry Queens.
Court Member
Jamee Lynn Townsend foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Florida Strawberry Festival
schedule of events
WEDNESDAY, March 6th
the Midway for this event will be required to purchase a $20.00 wristband, 10:00 pm until 2:00 American Heroes Day | Ride-A-Thon Day am.= All patrons entering grounds are subject to Ride-A-Thon from Noon until 11:00 pm. A search. Strawberry Mashed Potato Pie Eating wristband purchased at the Midway for $20.00 Contest Sponsored By: Pickle Barrel Sirloin Tips will entitle wearer to ride most mechanical Provided by the FL Strawberry Festival® rides for this one low price. All active, reserve, 10:00 am - Gates Open retired military, veterans, law enforcement & Noon - Strawberry Mashed Potato Pie Eating Thursday, FEBRUARY 28TH SUNDAY, March 3RD first responders are admitted free with valid ID. Contest Senior Citizen’s Day | Ride-A-Thon Day Mountain Dew Family Day American Heroes Day Sponsored By: Grow Patrons 60 years of age or older get $2.00 off the Bring a Mountain Dew can to the Festival Financial Federal Credit Union & FOX 13 3:00 pm - Livestock Contestant Judging gate admission of $10.00 all day. Senior Day is and receive a voucher for $5.00 off the $25.00 CARE*FORCE. Superdog Corndog Eating 3:30 pm - T.G. Sheppard/Janie Fricke 6:00 pm - Showmanship Judging-Beef Breed Sponsored By: Florida Blue. Ride-A-Thon from wristband and ride all day for only $20.00. Contest Sponsored By: Superdog. 6:00 pm - Kari & Billy Noon until 11:00 pm. A wristband purchased at Mountain Dew can is not valid for gate 7:00 pm - Karaoke Contest the Midway for $20.00 will entitle the wearer to admission. Baby Contest Sponsored By: South 10:00 am - Gates Open 7:30 pm - Scotty McCreery ride most mechanical rides for this one low price. Florida Baptist Hospital. Youth Plant Show & 1:00 pm - Superdog Corndog Eating Contest 10:00 pm – 2:00 am - Moonlight Magic Canada Calling with Prior Smith Sponsored By: Sale Sponsored By: Gulf Coast Turf & Tractor. 3:30 pm - Neal McCoy TD Bank 6:00 pm - CF Industries Youth Steer Show 10:00 am - Gates Open saturday, March 9th 7:15 pm - Honor American Heroes 10:00 am - Gates Open 11:00 am - Adult Showmanship (Dairy) 7:30 pm - Trace Adkins Farm Worker Appreciation Day 10:00 am - Canada Calling with Prior Smith 11:30 am - Pee Wee Showmanship (Dairy) Farm Worker Appreciation Day Sponsored By: 10:30 am - Jimmy Sturr & Orchestra 12:30 pm - Dairy Costume BallArena Astin Farms thursday, March 7th 11:45 am - Senior Citizens Drawing 2:00 pm - Youth Plant Sale Senior Citizen’s Day | Ride-A-Thon Day 3:30 pm - Chubby Checker 3:30 pm - Randy Houser 10:00 am - Gates Open Patrons 60 years and older get $2.00 off the 7:00 pm - CF Industries Youth Swine Show 3:45 pm - 4:45 pm - Registration for Baby 10:15 am - Baby Parade gate admission of $10.00 all day. Senior Day is 7:30 pm - FOREIGNER Contest 3:30 pm - Gaither Vocal Band Sponsored By: Florida Blue. Ride-A-Thon from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm - Baby Contest: Decorated 6:00 pm - Kari & Billy Noon until 11:00 pm. A wristband purchased at Diaper Contest; Baby Features Contest; Diaper 7:00 pm - CF Industries Youth Steer Sale FRIDAY, March 1ST the Midway for $20.00 will entitle the wearer to Derby (Hillsborough County Babies Only) 7:30 pm - Rev. Art Jones and the Bible Based Sweetbay Supermarket Day on the ride most mechanical rides for this one low price. 7:30 pm - Alan Jackson FellowshipChurch Cathedral Choir
2013 florida strawberry festival®
Midway Moonlight Magic Night
Sweetbay Supermarket Day on the Midway Noon to 10:00 pm - Present any “My Essentials” non-perishable item at entry gate & receive $4.00 off the regular price of $20.00 Fun Pack Ride Coupon Book. Moonlight Magic – Ride most mechanical rides for one special price of $20.00 per person. All patrons entering the Midway for this event will be required to purchase a $20.00 wristband, 10:00 pm until 2:00 am. All patrons entering the grounds are subject to search. Fried Corn on the Cob Team Eating Contest Sponsored By: Rigatoni’s 10:00 am - Gates Open 1:00 pm - Fried Corn on the Cob Team Eating Contest 1:00 pm. - Dairy Contestant Judging 3:30 pm - Gene Watson 7:00 pm - CF Industries Youth Swine Sale 7:00 pm - Karaoke Contest 7:30 pm - Casting Crowns 10:00 pm – 2:00 am - Moonlight Magic
Saturday, March 2ND
Kids Day | Youth Parade Day
Kids through high school age admitted free all day. Kids Day is Sponsored By: MIDFLORIDA Credit Union. Youth Stemming Contest Sponsored By: Dole Berry Company. Dairy Shows Sponsored By: Tractor Supply Company. 10:00 am - Gates Open 11:00 am - 40th Annual Plant City Civitan Club Youth Parade Noon - Dairy Show Showmanship 1:00 pm - Caroline Kole 1:00 pm - Youth Strawberry Stemming 2:00 pm - Dairy Show 3:30 pm - Gloriana 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm - Next Radical Generation 7:30 pm - Justin Moore
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Monday, March 4TH
Grand Parade Day | Ride-A-Thon Day
Ride-A-Thon from 10:00 am until 11:00 pm. A wristband purchased at the Midway for $20.00 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides for this one low price. 7:30 am - Farm Credit Strawberry Salute Breakfast 10:00 am - Gates Open 10:30 am - Invitational Parade Luncheon 1:00 pm - Grand Parade Begins 2:00 pm - Grand Parade Passes by the Festival 3:00 pm - The Home Depot Kids Workshop 3:30 pm - Grits & Glamour with Lorrie Morgan & Pam Tillis 5:00 pm - Lamb Jumping 6:00 pm - Lamb Show 7:30 pm - Dwight Yoakam
10:00 am - Gates Open 10:30 am – Steve Hall & The Shotgun Red Show 11:45 am - Senior Citizens Drawing 2:00 pm - Strawberry Shortcake Eating Contest 3:30 pm - Mel Tillis 7:30 pm - Brantley Gilbert
friday, March 8th
The Tampa Tribune & TBO.com Day on the Midway Moonlight Magic Night
The Tampa Tribune & TBO.com Day on the Midway Noon to 10:00 pm - $4.00 off with coupon of the regular price of $20.00 Fun Pack Ride Coupon Book. Moonlight Magic – Ride most mechanical rides for one special price of $20.00 per person. All patrons entering
7:30 pm - Bret Michaels “Get Your Rock On 2013”
sunday, March 10th
Mountain Dew Family Day
Bring a Mountain Dew can to the Festival and receive a voucher for $5.00 off the $25.00 wristband & ride all day for only $20.00. Mountain Dew can is not valid for gate admission. Youth Beef Breed Sponsored By: The Hay Exchange. 10:00 am - Gates Open 11:00 am - Youth Beef Breed Show 2:00 pm - Kitchen Craft Cookware Drawing 3:30 pm - Hunter Hayes 5:00 pm - Stingray Chevrolet Vehicle Drawing 7:30 pm - Blake Shelton
Tuesday, March 5TH
Red Hat Day | Ride-A-Thon Day
Ride-A-Thon From Noon until 11:00 pm. A wristband purchased at the Midway for $20.00 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides for this one low price. Red Hatters get $2.00 off the gate admission of $10.00 all day. Adult Stemming Contest Sponsored By: Dole Berry Company. 10:00 am - Gates Open 11:00 am - Red Hatters Welcome 2:00 pm - Adult Strawberry Stemming Contest 3:30 pm - Bobby Vinton 7:00 pm - Lamb Costume Contest 7:30 pm. - Martina McBride
Blake Shelton performing on Sunday, March 10, 2013 at the FL Strawberry Festival
Florida Strawberry Festival
free entertainment
2013 florida strawberry festival® Provided by the FL Strawberry Festival®
Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent DENNIS LEE
Sponsored by: Bionic Band A legend in his own mind, everyone’s favorite funny man Dennis Lee and his band perform everything from Elvis to R &B and Country several times daily in the Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent. Show Times: 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm & 7:00 pm. Except there will be NO 7:00 pm show on 3/1, 3/2, 3/8 or 3/9
Jay Taylor Band
Sponsored by: Hampton Inn & Suites/Tampa East As comfortable onstage as he is in on the ranch, Jay performs with a presence and sound that are beyond his 28 years. His rich, understated baritone vocals have been compared to those of the legendary George Strait, one of Jay’s influences along with Garth Brooks, Elvis Presley, and his own musical family. Daily in the Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent. Show Times: 11:00 am, 2:00 pm & 5:00 pm Except there will be NO 5:00 pm show on 3/3
The Sweeney Family Band Country Comedy Revue
Hide The Corn Squeezins! Here they come! The most loveable, good natured bunch of backwoods country boys you’ve ever met! They might be a few bricks shy of a load, but they sure know how to have a good time! They’ll have you clappin’ your hands and stompin’ your feet to some good ole bluegrass and folk tunes that everyone loves. Join Slim, Skeeter and Little Buck for a knee slappin’ good time! It’s not just a show, it’s a whole family reunion when these boys take the stage! Take a little Hee Haw, add a couple of pinches of The Grand Ole Opry, sprinkle in a little Andy Griffith, simmer over down home humor, serve with a little “shine”.....and soon you’ll have a banquet of fun! Enjoy the music and comedy of “The Sweeney Family Band”! Show Times: Noon, 3:00 pm & 6:00 pm Except there will be NO 6:00 pm show on 3/3
Karaoke Contest at the Florida Strawberry Festival
Sponsored By: Talent Quest Florida March 1, 2013 & March 8, 2013 Contest Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM Who wants to Karaoke? The Florida Strawberry Festival is hosting the Open Qualifying for Talent Quest Florida on Thursday, March 1 & March 8, 2013 from 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM. Talent Quest Florida is the world’s largest regional karaoke competition in Tampa, feeding into the national Talent Quest competition held
each year in Nevada. Each year singers from throughout the State of Florida compete for a chance to represent Florida at the national Talent Quest singing competition, where they can earn $3,500, a chance to perform in front of music producers and potentially record their own CD. For more information, please visit http://talentquestflorida.com/ StrawberryRegistration.html.
Borden Dairy Strawberry Tent Ron Diamond
Sponsored By: SunTrust Bank Whether performing for hundreds or thousands, Ron’s shows generate excitement and enthusiasm that causes those who attend to come back for more and bring friends and family with them to share in the great fun to be had by all who attend this rip roaring funny show! Located in the Borden Dairy Strawberry Tent. Show Times: 11:00 am, 3:00 pm & 7:00 pm
The Gothard Sisters
Sponsored By: Touring Artistry February 28 – March 5, 2013 From fast fiddle numbers to singing ballads and Irish dancing, The Gothard Sisters are three sisters who are champion Irish dancers and musicians. The trio uses their talents to perform entertaining shows featuring country, Irish, flamenco and rock music. Simply a good time for everyone! Located in the Borden Dairy Strawberry Tent. Show Times: 1:00 pm, 5:00 pm & 8:30 pm
Lloyd Mabrey/Do Your Best
Sponsored By: Touring Artistry March 6 – March 10, 2013 Lloyd has been performing since 1976 as a professional entertainer and has become one of our country’s most respected performers. He has opened for more than a hundred major acts from Buck Owens to the Beach Boys. His versatile singing style and 12 string guitar skills are complemented by his warm wit and his incredible improvisational skills. His extensive song list and talent to write songs on the spot appeals to all ages. Lloyd Mabrey is truly a one of a kind entertainer! Located in the Borden Dairy Strawberry Tent. Show Times: 1:00 pm, 5:00 pm & 8:30 pm
the young and the young at heart. Show Times: 11:30 am, 4:30 pm & 7:30 pm Additional Shows on Saturday’s & Sundays: 1:30 pm
Neighborhood Village
Sponsored by: Kitchen Craft Open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily The Neighborhood Village is dedicated to the homemade and handcrafted items created by folks in the community and surrounding communities, including: baking, cake decorating, food preservation, home decoration items, jewelry and needlework. Stop in for your chance to win a complete set of cookware from Kitchen Craft. Drawing will be held on March 10, 2013 at 2:00 pm.
World Champion Lumberjills
Sponsored by: The Home Depot World Champion Lumberjills chopping, sawing, and deftly handling axes and chainsaws in shows that are not only historical and educational, they’re humorous and filled with audience participation. Show Times: 11:00 am, 2:30 pm & 5:30 pm Additional Shows on Saturday’s & Sundays: 7:30 pm
Pioneer Skills in Early Arts and Trades Sponsored by: Florida’s Best Open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily Woodwork and rope making demonstrations will give guests a unique opportunity to see how our ancestors used their simple tools and traditional skills. Located on the south side of the TECO Expo Hall
JUMP! The Ultimate Dog Show
Sponsored by: Hartz “JUMP” The Ultimate Dog Show is a non stop, action packed, Canine Thrill Show that showcases Incredible Dogs and their Handlers performing amazing stunts to upbeat music that will thrill audiences of all ages. Most of the performing Pet Stars have been adopted from various Animal Shelters throughout the US, as we stress the importance of Pet Adoption. Plenty of crowd participation and amazing Novel Pet Tricks. This Show will be a must see, HIT!! Show Times: 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm & 8:00 pm
Rock-It the Robot
Sponsored By: Softub Express Get ready to meet your new favorite dance partner! At 9 feet tall, Rock-It the Robot has moves that range from country to HIP-HOP and even has his own Robo-Boogie-Get-Down dancing. With his own brand of comedic humor, Rock-It is a must see at this year’s Festival. Show Times: 11:00 am, 2:00 pm & 7:00 pm
Robinson’s Racing Pigs and Paddling Porkers
Sponsored by: Netterfield’s Concessions Calling all race fans! Come out & cheer for your favorite racing pigs and paddling porkers at the 2012 Florida Strawberry Festival. Watch as the porkers swim race four at a time while the crowd cheers the porkers on to victory as they finish their race diving in to a 24 ft swimming pool called the hogwash. Our pigs run for the ultimate prize for a pig. An Oreo cookie of course! Show Times: 11:00 am, Noon, 2:00 pm, 4:00 pm, 6:00 pm & 8:00 pm
RUNA PACHA “Indian World”
Sponsored by: Verizon Wireless From the Andes Mountains, they play native wind pipes and flutes combined with a variety of string instruments and modern electronic effects to create a relaxing sound like no other. Show Times: 11:00 am, Noon, 2:00 pm, 4:00 pm, 6:00 pm & 8:00 pm
Strawberry Production Exhibit
On Grounds Entertainment Kandu Magic Show
Sponsored by: Vision Auto Glass Kandu and Jill The Music Lady create a show like no other. Incorporating live music, sound effects, sight gags, slapstick comedy and audience participation, this show captivates both
JUMP! The Ultimate Dog Show
World Champion Lumberjills
Open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily Sponsored by: Florida Strawberry Growers Association They’ll show the contrast between how strawberries were grown years ago and how they are cultivated today. Exhibit includes artifacts from days of old in an authentic setting. This is an educational opportunity for city folks to gain insight and understanding about how one of Florida’s sweetest crops are grown today. Located just to the West of the Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent. foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Florida Strawberry Festival
PLANT CITY CRAZY ABOUT STRAWBERRIES Written by Amanda Deck
It’s not a secret Plant City residents love their strawberries—the strawberry crop is the heart and soul of the community. For example, not only is Plant City home to the annual Florida Strawberry Festival, but it’s considered the “Winter Strawberry Capital of the World.” Plant City’s mild winter climate and sandy soil makes it about the only place in the United States that can produce a strawberry crop during the winter months, making the succulent fruit a vital part of the local economy.
production, supporting over 200 million plants which produce over 300 million pounds of berries throughout a four-month harvesting period, from early December to April.
“Strawberries support tens of thousands of local jobs,” said Campbell, “ranging from truck drivers to chemical sales, capital equipment, refrigeration repair, cooler and farm personnel, irrigation equipment, hardware, vehicles, boxes, pallets, plastic packaging, labeling, accounting, legal “Strawberries contribute almost 45 services, the Festival, and much, much percent of Hillsborough’s AG value— more. Plant City would be devastated now approaching $400 million,” said without strawberries.” Florida Strawberry Growers Association Executive Director Ted Campbell. “When Therefore, with thousands of jobs relying you translate that into economic impact, on a successful strawberry crop each year it more than doubles, so strawberries are throughout Hillsborough County, it’s contributing nearly a billion dollars to our no wonder why Plant City is crazy about strawberries. local economy.” Each year, over 11,000 acres of Plant City land are dedicated solely to strawberry crop
Strawberry Fun Facts An Unknown Origin
According to legend, strawberries were named by 19th century English children who picked the fruit, strung them on grass straws, and sold them as “straws of berries,” while a different naming theory suggests 19th century farmers placed piles of straw around the growing berries to keep them fresh. However, the most widely accepted view is that strawberries were originally named “strewn berries,” as the berries were “strewn” about on the plants. Over time, “strewn berry” morphed into “strawberry.”
Inspirational Indians
Native Americans, who called strawberries “heart-seed berries” for their unique shape, mixed pounded strawberries into their cornmeal bread. After tasting this delicious native staple, colonists created their own version, now known as strawberry shortcake.
Straw…berry?
Botanists do not classify the strawberry as a true berry like the blueberry and cranberry which have seeds on the inside. In fact, an average size strawberry is covered in about 200 dry yellow seeds and is a member of the rose family.
An Interesting History
During medieval times, the English and French decorated their gardens with strawberries. The most prominent royal garden belonged to King Charles V of 14th century France which was comprised of over 1,200 strawberry plants. In addition, Madame Tallien, a member of Napoleon’s court used to bathe in fresh strawberry juice. Finally, 13th century newlyweds in France ate strawberry soup, as it was thought to be an aphrodisiac.
A Sporting Tradition
Almost 60,000 pounds of strawberries are eaten during the Wimbledon Tennis Championships each year, along with over 236,700 ounces of cream.
Fan Favorite
According to a survey conducted by the University of Illinois, over 53 percent of 7- to 9- year-olds chose the strawberry as their favorite fruit. Furthermore, the U.S. Department of Agriculture calculated that the annual per capita consumption of fresh and frozen strawberries is 4.85 pounds.
Versatile Fruit
Although the United States is composed of several different climate regions from the cool, rainy northwest to the hot and humid southeast, strawberries are grown in every U.S. state—and every Canadian province! In fact, there are more than 600 varieties of strawberries in existence.
Berries Galore!
The 20 million strawberry flats produced each year, if placed end to end, would extend from Plant City to Seattle and back again.
A Healing Touch
Strawberry juice combined with honey can reduce inflammation or sunburn. Find out more helpful strawberry tips and tricks in Wanda’s Words of Wisdom column.
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Wanda’s Words of Wisdom Strawberries. They’re not just delicious but useful in so many ways. So, stop throwing away those overripe strawberries, and let’s get started on a more youthful you! Tired eyes? I have just the tip for you— strawberries! Slice up a few strawberries, place them under your eyes, and relax for 10 minutes. The strawberries help take out some of the puffiness. Be sure to apply moisturizer to your skin afterwards.
Reap the (Health) Benefits Unless consuming a countless number of strawberry sundaes, shakes, shortcakes, and other sweet treats, Plant City residents should be some of the healthiest in the country. Not only are fresh strawberries low in calories and fat-free (one cup of unsweetened strawberries contains 55 calories), but they are the perfect source for much-needed vitamins and minerals. In fact, just eight medium-sized, whole strawberries boasts 140 percent of the recommended daily amount of Vitamin C, making them a healthy addition to any diet. In addition, a one cup serving of strawberries provides three grams of fiber—essential for healthy digestion—and 254 grams of potassium, reducing blood pressure and hypertension. Expectant mothers should consider adding strawberries to their next meal as one cup provides 40 micrograms of folic acid which protects against certain birth defects and improves red blood cell health. Strawberries may also possess cancer fighting characteristics according to lab results from Cornell University and Clemson University.
For softer, smoother skin, simply cut a strawberry in half, gently rub it on your face, and rinse. Strawberries help remove dead skin cells, thus leaving your skin looking more youthful.
Florida Strawberry Festival tablespoon of mayonnaise. Shampoo your hair as normal, then work the strawberry conditioner into your hair. Cover with plastic wrap and top off with a warm towel. Leave the conditioner in your hair for 15 minutes, then rinse well. It wouldn’t be a total “Strawberry Makeover” without brightening your smile. Did you know that eating strawberries can whiten your teeth and freshen your breath? I know we can all use that helpful tip...am I right? Now that we have covered the outer-body benefits, my last tip is for the inner you: Strawberries have more Vitamin C than any citrus fruit and is high in soluble fiber. So take advantage of one of the best natural resources Plant City has to offer—our strawberries!
Attempting to smooth out those dry skin areas? Try a Strawberry Sugar Scrub. Here’s what you’ll need: 2/3 cup sugar, one large strawberry, and one tablespoon of olive oil. Blend the ingredients together and Until next time…relax, enjoy, and be thankful massage the mixture onto your dry areas. Leave the scrub on for one to two minutes, - Wanda “Lewis” Anderson then rinse. Strawberry conditioner is a great way to put that extra shine back into your hair. Blend six to eight strawberries with one
*Information gathered from several websites, including naturalhomeremedies.org/Heloise.
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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GIVE YOURSELF A REASON TO SMILE DENTAL A S S O C I AT E S
at WaldenWoods
RAY GUTIERREZ, DMD & SARAH DEEDS, DMD GENERAL DENTISTS 512 E. ALEXANDER STREET | PLANT CITY
WWW.DENTALASSOCIATESWALDENWOODS.COM
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Cleaning,
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(Reg. $299) Offer Expires 12/31/13. Includes exam, cleaning & x-rays. New Patients Only.
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D0150, D0330, D0272, D0210, D1110, D8040, D8090 IT IS OUR OFFICE POLICY THAT THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS THE RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT WHICH IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED-FEE OR REDUCED-FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT. DN18996, DN19382
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20 fun facts about the florida strawberry festival
Florida Strawberry Festival
Compiled by Cheryl Johnston
1 2 3 4 5 6 8 7 9 10
The Florida Strawberry Festival® is recognized as one of the best festivals in the country and ranks among the Top 40 Fairs in North America. More than 100 annual events in 34 states celebrate the strawberry. The Florida Strawberry Festival is not subsidized by taxpapers.
Only a handful of paid staff members work year -round.
A non-paid board of 30 directors and associate directors, selected by election from among local community residents, governs the event.
Seventy-eight queens have worn the Florida Strawberry Festival® crown since 1930, when the Lions Club established the Festival. Among In 1948, American Legion other Post #26 helped reactivate recognitions, the Festival following a 2013 Queen six-year hiatus during and Kelsey Morgan Fry immediately following WWII (from will receive two 1942-1947). scholarships ($1,000 from the Lions Club; Approximately 3,000 free $1,200 from the seats are available in the Festival) and $250 stadium bleachers on a for winning “Miss first-come/first-serve basis Congeniality.” (as part of the paid gate admission) for the 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. daily headline concerts on the main soundstage.
Special days for midway rides pricing include: Ride-A-Thon Days - Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 3-11PM (Wristband purchases allows most mechanical rides as part of one low price) Moonlight Magic - both Friday nights from 11PM-3AM Mountain Dew Family Days - both Sundays (Guests bring a Mountain Dew can to receive a voucher for $5 off the $25 wristband and ride all day.)
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
The Neighborhood Village in the Milton E. Hull Building (just east of Lost & Found) is sponsored by Kitchen Craft and dedicated to the award-winning homemade and handcrafted items created by folks in our community. Kitchen Craft will hold a drawing for a set of cookware on Sunday, March 10 at 2PM in the Neighborhood Village. Today strawberries are grown on every continent except Antarctica.
The top two strawberryproducing states in America are CA and FL.
Although not mentioned in the Bible, strawberries (originally called strewberries) have been representative symbols of righteousness and perfection. In medieval times, they were served at important functions to bring peace & prosperity.
Folklore: If you split a double berry in half & share with the opposite sex, you will soon fall Festival-goers in love. The fruit is can enjoy more considered to be an than 80 rides. aphrodisiac in many cultures.
Booths will display wares and info from about 400 exhibitors and concessionaires.
Three camping areas with a total of 140 RV sites are available on an advance reservation basis or availability.
Campers on a Mission come each year to provide breakfasts, soups, haircuts, pillows, blankets and other comforts to the carnival workers who travel continually.
Al Berry is the current Festival director with the most years of service.
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Time for a Change?
APARTMENTS FOR THE ELDERLY One bedroom Apartments • Rent based on income
Stop by and learn more about
Your Hometown Bank! Plant City Towers
103 W. Mahoney St. • Plant City, FL 33563 • 813.752.5116
509 West Alexander Street • Plant City (across from Plant City High School)
813-707-6506 1016 Bloomingdale Ave. • Valrico 813-657-8989
HEYSEK & KEPES RADIATION ONCOLOGY (Formally Known as Plant City Cancer Treatment Center)
Randy V. Heysek, MD FACRO
· IMRT · 3- Conformal Kathryn L. Kepes, · HDR (High Dose Rate) · Prostate Seed Implants MD FACRO
· Accuboost HDR for Breast Cancer · Skin Cancer Treatment
Heysek & Kepes Radiation Oncology 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.
Call 813-719-7705 for appointments/consultations 303 North Alexander Street, Plant City, FL (still located with South Florida Baptist Hospital)
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Plant City Living Center
405 E. Damon St • Plant City, FL 33563 • 813.659.2669
Applications available at each location
“They saved my husband’s life.”
Billy P., a real patient of South Florida Baptist Hospital
We Knew Where to Go in an Emergency A horrible motorcycle accident left Billy in extreme pain from life-threatening complications. “We knew we needed a real ER fast, so we chose the emergency center at South Florida Baptist Hospital.” The Emergency Center at South Florida Baptist Hospital is connected to the hospital where additional services, including surgery, are readily available. Billy chose to go to an emergency center that is connected to a hospital, so he could be in town for his personal doctor, his friends and his family. Get better emergency care ... and stay close to home.
Choose the Emergency Center at South Florida Baptist Hospital. For more information:
(813) 443-3018
Go to PlantCityEmergency.org to watch the full story. BC1300287-0213
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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business » business profile It’s apparent the medical expertise of Drs. Heysek and Kepes is virtually unrivaled in the Plant City area. However, what their practice focuses on most, apart from offering excellent cancer treatment using state-of-the-art equipment--including intensity-modulated radiation therapy, 3-D conformal therapy, high dose radiation for skin cancers, and AccuBoost for breast cancer-- is providing it in a friendly, respectable atmosphere. From providing coffee, cookies and a comfortable waiting room stocked with a television, a puzzle table, magazines, newspapers, and other reading materials, Heysek and Kepes Radiation Oncology is dedicated to making their patients feel right at home.
Heysek and Kepes Radiation Oncology O
“We try to make our patients feel like they are a part of our family,” said staff nurse and office supervisor Raquel Fernandes. “They adopt us and we adopt them.”
patient’s every need. In fact, the helpful staff will go the extra mile, putting their patients in touch with nutritionists, counselors, and other resources to ensure they are receiving the best care possible. And since many of their patients are seasonal, Heysek and Kepes strive to keep in touch with their patients’ relatives up north. No one likes to discover they have cancer. Not only does it affect a patient’s physical, emotional, and social health, but it also has a direct influence on his or her family. As a result, Heysek and Kepes Radiation Oncology is committed to providing total cancer care. “Learning you have cancer can be an overwhelming experience, and we try to make the healing process as easy and convenient as possible,” said Fernandes. “We love our patients and we love being able to help. Although every day is a challenge, we can make a difference in each of our patient’s lives, helping them fight the disease and know there is life after a cancer diagnosis. We enjoy our patients and work to provide them with quality care.”
In order to provide that comforting atmosphere, the staff at Heysek and Kepes have gone above and beyond the call, making sure that every detail—from Written By: Amanda Deck the soothing incandescent lighting in the Although he currently serves on the Board dressing room to the beautiful artwork nce known as the Plant City of Directors for the Florida Prostate decorating the hallways—accommodates a Cancer Center, Heysek and Kepes Institute, Dr. Heysek has performed duties Radiation Oncology, located at 303 as the Chief of Staff at Lakeland Regional N. Alexander Street on the South Florida Medical Center, Chairman of the Board of Baptist Hospital campus, will soon be Trustees and President of the Polk County celebrating its 17th year of service to the Medical Association, and board member of Plant City community. Since its inception the American Cancer Society (ACS). on March 5, 1996, the practice has been led by two highly educated and esteemed An expert in business and medicine, Dr. board-certified Radiation Oncologists, Kepes earned her Doctor of Medicine Randy V. Heysek, MD and Kathryn L. degree from St. Louis University and a Kepes, MD, along with caring nursing Master of Business Administration degree personnel, radiation therapy technologists, from the University of Miami, where she and a medical physicist. was also inducted in the Beta Gamma Sigma business honor society. Dr. Kepes Heysek and Kepes’ state of After graduating with honors from the has a special interest in breast cancer and the art radiation equipment University of Colorado at Boulder with lung cancer. Dr. Kepes founded the Center Photo by Amanda Deck a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, Dr. for Radiation Oncology, which consisted Heysek furthered his schooling at the of four practices in Hillsborough and University of Florida College of Medicine Pasco County. Yet today she works solely and completed an internship at Baptist at Heysek and Kepes Radiation Oncology Memorial Hospital in Memphis at the Center. Dr. Kepes has been honored by University of Tennessee and a residency her peers throughout her career, earning in radiation oncology at the University of a 2009 Florida Super Doctor honor and Maryland Cancer Center at Baltimore. a 2010 Florida Outstanding Physician In addition to his extensive educational award. Furthermore, she is an Honorary background, Dr. Heysek has provided Lifetime Member of the ACS, and has radiation therapy—with special interest served on the Board of Directors of in treatment of head, neck and prostate Lifepath Hospice, as Medical Advisor for cancer—for over 20 years to patients in the Southeast Hillsborough ACS unit and Hillsborough and Polk County with other National President of the Association of Heysek and Kepes Radiation Oncology’s comfortable offices in Lakeland, Davenport, Lake Freestanding Radiation Oncology Centers. waiting room filled with a television, a puzzle table, magazines, newspapers, and other reading materials Wales, and the Moffitt Cancer Center. for a patient’s enjoyment. Photo by Amanda Deck
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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GFWC PLANT CITY JUNIOR WOMAN’S CLUB
1ST ANNUAL
CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT Saturday, April 6, 2013 @ Walden Lake Golf & Country Club
2001 Country Club Dr.,Plant City, FL 33566 ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT:
The Plant City Shoe Project
For more than 40 years the PCJWC has provided sneakers, socks, and other school supplies to underprivileged students at local elementary schools throughout eastern Hillsborough County
For more information contact Tyger Jimenez - tygerjimenez@gmail.com or Kendelle Jimenez - Kendellejimenez@yahoo.com
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“ESCAPE FROM THE ORDINARY”
ANDY THORNAL COMPANY #1572
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Law Office of Ingrid M. Hooglander P.A.
business » edward jones
Helping Florida Families with the following legal issues: a Family Law | Divorce a Child Custody | Paternity a Personal Injury a Social Security | Disability a Criminal Law a Traffic | DUI | DWI a Bankruptcy a Wills & Trusts
Connect with Us:
CALL TODAY for a FREE Inital Consultation
813-902-3576
www.brandondivorcehelp.com
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 82
february 2013 focusplantcity.com
Social Security Benefits Key Considerations before You Make a Decision M
ost people don’t plan on slowing down when they retire and many individuals continue to work in some capacity — whether that means continuing a full-time profession, consulting part time or turning a hobby into a second career. In fact, 30% of retirement income for those over age 65 comes from some type of work.
Your Social Security and retirement decisions typically go hand in hand. Before you decide when to start your benefits, consider the following information. Social Security recipients who are working and who are under full retirement age are subject to a reduction in benefits if they have earned income over certain limits.
After you reach full retirement age, there is no reduction in benefits based on how much you earn. Earnings include wages and selfemployment income. Interest, dividends and other unearned income are generally not included in these limitations.
Taxation of Social Security Benefits
Regardless of when you take Social Security benefits, if your combined income2 is at a certain level ($25,000 to $34,000 if single; $32,000 to $44,000 if married), up to 50% of your Social Security benefits could be subject to income tax.
If your combined income is above $34,000 if single ($44,000 if married), up to 85% of Earnings Limit - 2013 your benefits could be subject to income Prior to the year you reach full retirement tax. age, you can earn up to $15,120 per year with no reduction in benefits. For every $2 Taxes shouldn’t affect when you decide to you earn over $15,120, $1 is withheld from take your Social Security benefits. However, benefits. it’s important to understand how your benefits could be taxed when determining In the year you attain full retirement your after-tax income in retirement. Along age, you can earn up to $40,080 with no with your financial advisor, be sure to reduction in benefits. For every $3 you earn discuss these topics with a qualified tax over the earnings limit, $1 is withheld from professional. benefits.
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813-752-3378 www.brokepoor.com
Located Between Lakeland and Plant City
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Polk Museum of Art Dr. Brenda Dukes Chiropractic Physician
WARNING FloRIdA dRIveRs!!! oN JANuARy 1st, youR cAR INsuRANce beNeFIts chANGed ANd Not FoR the betteR!
The 2012 Florida Legislature voted into law several changes in our (PIP) Personal Injury Protection benefits. Up to this point each Floridian who owns or drives a car is required to carry Personal Injury Protection insurance (PIP)to be used for medical care of the driver or passengers who may have been hurt in an auto related accident. Through December 31st, 2012 the PIP insurance in most cases covers any reasonable medical expenses related to the injuries suffered by the occupants including Chiropractic care, Medical care, MRI, x-rays, Massage and acupuncture. In most cases the uninjured party often had from several months even up to a year to make a claim for injuries and to get treatment. Things have changed beginning January 1st, 2013 changes in the law require all Floridians who are involved in an auto related accident must see a Chiropractic Physician, Medical Physician, Nurse practitioner, Physician’s assistant or Dentist within 14 days of the date of the Injury. If a claim is not made with in that 14 day time frame you will not be able to collect your PIP medical benefits and any injuries that may require medical care but sustained in a motor vehicle accident will now be your responsibility. Other sweeping changes have to do with limitations on some of the care that is available to you as an injured victim and the $2500.00 cap on benefits for all providers unless your injury is considered to be a medical emergency condition.
Small possible worlds
No Ordinary Days Works by Maggie Taylor (January 19 - April 20) sponsored by
The Muses
Section 9. Section 627-732(16) “Emergency Medical Condition” means: (a) A medical condition manifesting itself by acute symptoms of sufficient severity, which may include severe pain or other acute symptoms, such that the absence of immediate medical attention could reasonably be expected to result in any of the following:
my
Tyranny of the Innocent
Coincidence
1. Serious jeopardy to the health of a patient, including a pregnant woman or fetus. 2. Serious impairment to bodily functions 3. Serious dysfunction of any bodily organ or part Another big change; Massage therapy and Acupuncture are no longer covered health care treatments under the PIP guidelines. This is a shame and it seems that legislatively we are going backwards…as I have seen many patients benefit from Massage Therapy and Acupuncture, these can be extremely helpful treatments in the recovery of injury victims looking for non-drug pain control and reduction of spasm. There would seem to be no medical providers were consulted when this was crafted in health care and they will no longer be payable through auto insurance after an accident. The people of the state of Florida are the ultimate losers, in the end, the people will lose and carriers will increase their profits. There will be no fraud reduction in the new premium reduction in rates to the insured as promised as that was already taken away from the people prior to signing the legislation into law. In closing, remember January 1st please get into our office for care or your own doctor with 14 days of an auto related accident. In the past it may have made sense to wait and see if things got better on their own after an injury and although this makes sense in the real world…. in this new legislative environment, if you wait longer than 14 days…you may find yourself with lifelong injuries and without insurance coverage to pay for treatment or damages.
FOCUS
coupons
Dr Dukes may be reached for questions or .com comments at 813-752-2524 God Bless, Dr. Dukes & Staff
Dr. Brenda Dukes • Chiropractic Physician 752-2524 • 2401 Walden Woods Dr. • Plant City, FL 33566
Dr. Dukes encourages you to write her with any questions concerning chiropractic care.
works by Louviere+Vanessa (January 19 - April 20) sponsored by
Fleetwing Corporation, Jonn & Elizabeth Hoppe, Robert & Malena Puterbaugh, Kerry & Buffy Wilson, Webb Tanner & Deanna Rhodes-Tanner with special thanks to Joshua Mann Pailet and A Gallery for Fine Photography
my
Exhibition-related merchandise available in the Shop at PMoA.
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Log on today for deals in your town
Exhibition Reception Sponsored by
800 E. Palmetto St., Lakeland, FL · 863.688.7743 · www.PolkMuseumofArt.org Off Lake Morton behind Lakeland Public Library · Hours: 10am-5pm Tues.-Fri., 1-5pm Sun.my
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foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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A Wholesale Lender that
Smokes the Competition Guaranteed Low Rate and Fast, Personal Service
“We bought our home in 2009 and ever since then, I have called Nate Davis to see what our refinance options were. He has always been very straight forward and honest with us. Finally, in 2012, he helped us refinance. He made the process very quick and saved us a lot of money. He always contacted me the same day I had a question. Nate Davis and Heather made the loan process easy and convenient. Thanks!” — Rebecca Fenly, Jan. 25, 2013 “Nate Davis and the entire team from Plant City Mortgage were professional and courteous. Even when small ‘glitches’ were encountered along the loan process, they were handled quickly and effectively. We received a great rate on a new loan and will definitely look to Plant City Mortgage for our future lending needs.” – David and Lisa Spivey, Jan. 13, 2013 “Working with Plant City Mortgage was smooth, clear and efficient. Our goals were met and exceeded, and we highly recommend them for your mortgage needs.” – Garth Jones, Jan. 3, 2013 “I had been frustrated with several companies in attempting to get my home refinanced. Nate at Plant City Mortgage was responsible, pleasant to work with, and made my refinancing easy. I saved a ton of money and recommend Nate to anyone refinancing their home.” – Robert Ferguson, Dec. 22 2012 “As a typical first-time homebuyer, I was quite nervous about the details surrounding the largest purchase I’ve ever made in my entire life. Although I now live in St. Pete, I was born and raised in Plant City, and there is an unexplainable level of comfort and trust I felt while working with Nate and his team that I simply couldn’t get from a corporate lender. He worked around my extremely demanding work schedule, without a single complaint, to explain every option and detail regarding my mortgage. Although all of our meetings were virtual and I never stepped foot inside of his office, I was 100% confident of the team’s attentiveness and strong work ethic. I am exceptionally happy with my new home and highly recommend Plant City Mortgage; no matter where life takes you. Who says you can’t go home?” – Jessica Hunt, Dec. 11 2012
“When I decided to refinance my home mortgage, I went to my current holder, thinking this would be the best deal and fastest – think again. I then shopped the web, around town and got recommendations from friends. I was working with three different places and spoke to all of them several times over a couple of weeks. I was doing some research to narrow down some line items to make a selection and move forward with the closing, when I came across the Plant City Mortgage Corp website. After reviewing the info on the website, I decided to submit a question. Within half an hour, I got a phone call from Nate. After a brief chat with Nate, I had made the selection to work with Plant City Mortgage Corp to complete my refinance.”
“Nate and the entire team at Plant City Mortgage are phenomenal and secured us a very low rate on our new home purchase. The energy level and ‘whatever it takes’ attitude are really what all mortgage consultants should be about. Nate is a motivated and detail-oriented individual who exemplifies great professionalism while maintaining a personalized service. Their passion and holistic approach to business is unmatched in the Plant City community. We highly recommend their services.” – Larry and Tyger Jimenez, Nov. 26, 2012
“I had talked with the other mortgage options several times over a couple of weeks and did not feel comfortable closing with them. I would get vague or wishy-washy answers from them. One brief conversation with Nate and I could tell he had character, was a straight shooter and was in the mortgage business for all the right reasons. I have managed people for 25 years and can tell when someone is giving you the straight scoop. If you have not taken a mortgage or refinanced before, my recommendation is to work with a couple of places to understand the process and cost associated with a mortgage. Then call Nate and see what he has to offer. I am confident that Nate will win your business every time. He and his staff CLOSED MY LOAN IN 17 DAYS from start to finish. Plant City Mortgage Corp is highly recommended. I have provided this same recommendation to several of my close friends.” - Erik Walls, Sept. 16, 2012
“We purchased our home in July 2012. Our loan was more complicated than most, but fortunately we had Plant City Mortgage. They saved us a lot of money and time. We were updated and reassured every step of the way. They were honest and accurate with all the information they gave us. Plant City Mortgage is committed to their customers before, during and after the closing. We are completely satisfied with their service. We will only use and recommend this mortgage company for now on.” – Scott and Cathy Kudlinski, Oct. 24, 2012
“It was a pleasure doing our refinance with you and your employees. We really appreciate you working to get us the best rate possible, which is an excellent rate. We must say your team of employees was excellent to work with. They were very knowledgeable, and if they didn’t know an answer to our question, they would find out immediately or within a couple of hours. They never left us hanging, wondering what was going on with our loan. Also, this was the fastest mortgage loan we have ever had in our lifetime. We’ve never closed a mortgage loan within 30 days.” – Ruth Oberlin, Dec. 5, 2012
“I was extremely pleased with Nate and his team! They worked very hard to get things done by all deadlines, even staying open to 10 p.m. so I could get papers signed. Brandi kept me informed and worked at least as hard as Nate to get things done. I recommend them to anyone!” – Steven Smith, Dec. 5 2012 “Nate and his staff were very knowledgeable and helpful. Nate was someone we trusted immediately, and I would recommend him to anyone looking for a mortgage.” – Nick J. Trivunovich, Dec. 4, 2012
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“Nate Davis provided the loan product advertised to me in a timely manner with no issues along the way, which is rare in the mortgage business. I will use Plant City Mortgage in the future and recommend him to my friends and family. Plant City Mortgage earned an A+ in my book!” – Jason Lambeth, Nov. 9, 2012
“Nate and his team were very helpful throughout the process and found me a great rate! They were very responsive to my questions (over the phone and through email). I will definitely recommend them to others.” – Adam Fowler, Oct. 11, 2012 “I was recently referred to Plant City Mortgage as I began the process of selling my current residence and purchasing a new home. Ultimately, the decision to work with Nate and his staff was a very beneficial move. Nate was incredibly resourceful in locating and securing a loan with a great interest rate. Nate, and his staff, were very knowledgeable and always accessible to answer questions throughout the entire process. The entire mortgage process can be very overwhelming, however, Nate knows how to navigate through the system to minimize the complexity of the system. I was extremely satisfied with the decision to work with Plant City Mortgage and would recommend his services to others in the future. Great job and thanks Nate!” – Dave Kersey, Tampa, Oct. 4, 2012
CALL 813-707-6200
1507 S. Alexander St. Suite 101, Plant City, FL 33563 www.PlantCityMortgages.com
NMLS # 289323
“With being in an underwater loan, as well as so many other Floridians, we had searched forever to refinance our mortgage to no avail. We then contacted Nate Davis at Plant City Mortgage Corporation and he assured us that his team could solve our dilemma. With the help of Sherri and Stephanie, we refinanced at a lower APR and saved hundreds a month on our payment. Thanks again for all of your help.” — Craig Van Camp, Feb. 2, 2013
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Team Wainoris Multi-Million Dollar Producers
...Selling Hillsborough and Polk
sellmyhome@tampabay.rr.com www.teamwainoris.com Randall Wainoris 813-997-3000
REALTOR®/Attorney at Law
Kathleen Wainoris 863-608-1557 REALTOR® Notary
WE SURVIVED THE FISCAL CLIFF!!
The housing market is actually on firmer ground today! Two major tax provisions survived the “fiscal cliff.” Congress did not touch the mortgage interest deduction, and it extended tax relief for one year on mortgage debt forgiveness.
Under a law signed in 2007, debt relief on loan modifications, short sales, and foreclosures were no longer taxable; that break expired at the end of 2012. The fear was that if the tax break was not extended, home owners would not agree to short sales (when the home is sold for less than the value of the mortgage) because they would then face a tax bill. The recent “fiscal cliff” deal also allows borrowers to deduct the amount they pay for private mortgage insurance, which has become increasingly prevalent in today’s tighter mortgage market. All of the above will help to lower the number of foreclosures and support the slow rise in home prices….good new for all of us!! That would not have been the case, had tax relief on debt forgiveness in short sales and principal reduction modifications come to an end.* Thinking about buying or selling? Call Team Wainoris today. We are experienced in short sales and can help you with all of your real estate needs. *Please consult your tax advisor for your own tax consequences.
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Cheri Aumond McLean
813-967-1285 REALTOR®
BANK APPROVED SHORT SALE
Bank Approved Short Sale. Three bedroom, two bath home on one acre in South Plant City. Beautiful stained wood walls and ceilings throughout! Country setting on treed lot with workshop! Approved at $120,000
FOUR BEDROOMS ON THREE ACRES!
Large 4 bedroom 2 bath home on almost 3 acres. Large rooms, family room with fireplace, separate den off of the master suite. 30 x 30ft pole barn too! Short sale: asking $89,000.
UNIQUE RV COMMUNITY
Wonderful and unique RV community of Mt. Olive Shores, North. Large Paver lot with paver patio and driveway. All utilities are connected and ready for use. Short sale: asking $50,000
NORTH LAKELAND POOL HOME
Great North Lakeland pool home with no deed restrictions! Great for RV or boat owners! Large living room with beautiful fireplace! Large screened pool, beautiful landscaping and more! Don’t miss this one! Asking $169,000.
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Wonderful Walden Lake home in Emerald Forest. This home features all new flooring with 18” tile & gleaming laminate with new carpet in the bedrooms. Forrmal living & dining rooms along with large family room. Wonderful back yard. Move in ready! $189,900
Inspiring thoughts of southern living w/a fabulous pool & roomy back yard on a corner lot of a cul-de-sac in Aston Woods sits this Regal Beauty. Featuring 4 large Bedrooms plus loft, Open kitchen w/wood cabinets and granite, Huge Family Room w/fireplace and so much more. $295,000
LAUREL LAKE VILLA W/POOL
VALRICO BEAUTY
Breathless golf and water views await you in this gorgeous 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath home in desirable Laurel Lake. Sparkling kitchen with silestone counters, newly rescreened patio with heated pool and more.
COUNTRY LIVING AT IT’S BEST
2654 Sq’ Living area w/4 bedrooms, formal living & dining rooms plus family room and 400 sq’ Florida Room. Kitchen has solid wood cabinets, walk in pantry. Newer roof, AC & windows. 31X48 workshop w/heat & air gives plenty of space for all your toys. Set on beautifully maintained 2 Acres. $315,000
Beautiful setting on this 1/2 acre lot nestled under a blanket of ancient oaks located in a small upscale neighborhood of elegant homes. 5 Bedrooms, 4 Baths with enormous Great Room w/soaring ceiling & floor to ceiling wood burning fireplace . Huge lanai, pool & spa. Great executive home! $350,000
1 ACRE BEAUTY
This fabulous 3 Bedroom 2 Bath home built in 2005 has attached 2 car garage plus an oversized detached 2 car garage. Enjoy the outdoors on the large lanai overlooking the koi pond. $165,000
TWO CITY LOTS AVAILABLE, READY TO BUILD ON, $10,000 EACH COMMERCIAL PROPERTY, FORMERLY USED AS A CHURCH, $75,000
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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real estate » Jo-An Lusk
Negotiating the Deal S
submitted By: Jo-An Lusk
o you finally found the house – though it may not be THE perfect house, you have realized that it’s time to take the next step. In a market where inventory is not meeting the demands of the buyer pool, many buyers are competing for the same house, thus creating multiple offers and fast and furious negotiations.
MAiLbox SeRviCeS A real street address. Package acceptance from any carrier. A text or email when packages arrive.
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In a Residential Purchase Agreement there are several items that can be negotiated, for example, Purchase Price, Closing Date, Title, Commitment Dates, Inspection Periods, Repair Limits, Concessions, and Escrow; to name a few. To the seller they can all be important. If a seller is looking at multiple offers, there are some factors to be considered and compared. Obviously, price – if buyers are submitting “highest and best” offers, the seller can anticipate the offers going over the listed price. Keep in mind that the property must appraise at that offer.
little escrow may not reveal as strong a buyer. A buyer with a reasonable escrow deposit and solid financing (Pre-Approval attached to the offer) will show that the buyer is motivated, willing and able. Additionally, the seller might be interested in a longer or shorter timeframe to close depending on their situation. The buyer’s agent can ask the listing agent if the seller can close sooner rather than later or vice versa. Typically the seller will take the listing off the market during this time so dates become important. Quick inspection periods can resolve several issues early.
Hopefully you have seen what many in the business are experiencing as the market recovers…a slight increase in prices. In this market, home prices increased as much as 10% over last year. But that doesn’t mean that you (Mr./Mrs. Seller) can raise your price. It is a recovering market, and many homes are still waiting for the market to “catch up.” I’ll simply say this: If it’s priced Financing types will be compared; cash is right, it will sell. always good, whereas 100% financing with
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Great 4 bedroom/ 3 bath block home with nice Short Sale. Charming 3 bedroom 2 bath block Short Sale. 3 bedroom 2 bath home in nice neighfront porch on a quiet cul de sac. Fireplace, Home on huge lot in quiet neighborhood near borhood of Trapnell Ridge. Beautiful wood cabinets, tile floors and great open floor plan. Priced at screened Lanai & large backyard. the park, nice storage shed on the property. $109,900. Call at 813-659-0990. #524 Call 813-659-0990. #451
Priced at $79,000. Call at 813-659-0990. #479
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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he Walden Lake Community Association Board Meetings are the third Monday of each month at the Walden Lake Community Association office building on Griffin Boulevard in Walden Lake. The next meeting will be February 18th and will begin at 6. The meetings are open to all Walden Lake residents.
At the January meeting, Jim Chancey, the Chairman of the Enforcement Committee, presented the Board with a draft copy on the formal policy for code enforcement. WLCA Manager, Tom Duramus, said that he gets many questions regarding the policies and that he wants everyone to be on the same page. Although no policies were changed, the formal policy will address the notification process, fining, reoccurring violations, arbitration, and the role of homeowners associations. Jim Chancey said it will address things that haven’t been addressed in the past and clear up any confusion. Once the document is reviewed and approved by all Board Members, it will be sent to each of the 16 communities that the master association oversees for the Presidents of those Associations to sign.
Review submitted By: natalie sweet
Griffin thanked the Presidents for getting the community in the Christmas spirit by decorating their entrances. Tom Daramus reminded the Presidents that there are still many burglaries happening in Walden Lake and that most involve cars that are left unlocked. Leaving your vehicle unlocked is an invitation to a burglar, especially when you leave valuables like laptops, cameras, and other electronics out in the open. He encourages all victims to report the crimes to the police department. Some of the Presidents talked about forming a Neighborhood Watch in their community. The police department has requested a list of all vacant homes because they feel the burglars hide out in these homes until they feel the community is clear of any police presence.
The Walden Lake Golf & Country Club will be rocking on Fridays. Beginning February 22nd, they are bringing in exciting talent for “Fridays Live at the Clubhouse”. Every Friday night from 7 to 11, you can enjoy listening and dancing to live music or a DJ. There will be a full service cash bar and free appetizers. Door charge is $10. You won’t need to drive to Tampa or Orlando when you can find high quality entertainment right here in our backyard! For more information, contact Donna at The Board approved a Relay for Life run 813-340-9433. through Walden Lake to be held on March 23rd in honor of Angie Rollyson and her If you have any questions on this column, sister Autumn Parrish. The Relay for Life would like to see a particular topic covered team is expecting 100 runners. or have any questions regarding real estate, please feel free to contact me at 813-758There was a President’s meeting directly 9586 or via email at nsweet@kw.com. after the Board Meeting in January. Jan
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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real estate » mortgage
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Save Money I
This Tax Season
submitted By: nate davis
bet you did not know this interesting taxtime tidbit: If you pay monthly mortgage insurance with your mortgage payment, it may be tax deductible, saving you money on your income taxes.
your lender and the HUD-1 settlement statement, if you purchased or refinanced that calendar year.
Lastly, any up-front mortgage insurance premiums, which are found on most FHA loans, may result in additional deductions, Many tax preparers will only prepare your as well. taxes based off what you give them—a 1098 form—from your lender. Lenders may or When preparing your taxes, be sure to have may not include the mortgage insurance this info handy, as it could save you money. on the form 1098 they provide you if the amount is less than $600. If this is the Disclaimer: I am not a CPA. However, case, you may be missing out on a valuable I am really good at residential mortgage deduction. loans, but I stink at preparing tax returns. So, please, consult with your tax preparer In short, provide your tax preparer with on these matters. not only your 1098 form from your lender, but also a mortgage insurance statement— Happy tax season! this is not homeowners insurance—from
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New Gated Community! Beautiful home under construction. Featuring 4 large bedrooms, 3 full baths with a 3 car garage. Boasting over 2,800 sf living area, gourmet kitchen, granite, wood oors and so much more! Included in price is a screen lanai and pool! Only $349,900. Call for more details!
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95
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2103 N. Golfview Dr. From the moment you walk up to the Italian marble grand entry and through the beautiful, solid cherry front doors, you will realize that this spectacular, custom home is unique. This 4 bedroom 3 1/2 bath, 3 car garage home is located on the shore of prestigious Walden Lake. The 3861 sq. ft of gracious living space boasts spectacular views of lake and woods thru large panes of fixed glass. Designed for entertaining, the gourmet dream kitchen includes custom cherry cabinetry, granite countertops, 3 separate food prep areas with sinks, stainless-steel appliances, a gas thermadore cook top with custom overhead exhaust hood, a sub-zero refrigerator/ freezer, and 2 temperature controlled wine rooms upstairs and downstairs. French doors off the living area and kitchen open onto the flagstone-decked, two-story lanai where you will find an outdoor kitchen, private pool bath, and a beautiful freeform black marcite pool, complete with a flagstone waterfall and lush landscaping with beautiful Walden Lake in the background.
0,0 $55
00
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0,0 $20
,900 4 6 $3
2712 Pineclub Dr. Most beautiful lot in Walden Lake with view of the Lakes Golf Course green with water view. Located on a quite cul-de-sac in prestigious Forest Club Community of Walden Lake. Home features 3277 heated square feet with pool, 4 bedrooms and 3 1/2 baths. A wood burning fireplace in the family room keeps you warm as you gaze at the golf course in the back ground. Home features zoned A/C to cool you off or jump in the pool while the family is grilling on the outdoor grill. This home is Florida living at its best. Call for your private showing.
706 N. Evers St. “Short Sale” Step back in time to this restored 1917 home in the Historic District of Plant City. The brick streets lead up to the front of the home where you immediately notice the brick walkways and huge front porch, landscaped and fenced yard with gates leading tothe front door and an outdoor kitchen. This home is very unique from the moment you walk in the front foyer and notice one of the five (5) fireplaces that are positioned throughout the home. The high volume coffered ceilings and wood floorings let you know you have arrived home. This home is now set up with 3 bedrooms, a den and a bonus room that could be the 4th bedroom if needed. The 3.5 bathrooms are more than adequate with several showers and even an antique tub in the master suite.
3706 Futch Rd. Welcome home to this 3 bedroom 3.5 bath pool home on 4.74 acres, with a 30 x 50’ metal shed to store your antique cars, tractors, or RV. This house has 3,956 heated square feet, and a total of 5,382 sq ft, which includes the two car attached garage, front porch, and screened-in pool area. Cook on your own outdoor electric grill while you enjoy the great outdoors! A creek runs the entire length of the property. On cooler nights, enjoy the wood burning fireplace in the open family room with 18’ high ceilings. This home boasts many extras, such as cedar lined closets, alarm system, water softener w/reverse osmosis, 2 AC units, 2 water heaters, and 2 disposals in the kitchen. Extra attic insulation was installed in 2008. A sprinkler system helps keep the 4.74 acres and landscaping looking lush. This home is country living at its best, in an area of fine homes. Call today for your personal viewing
0 9,90 6 1 $
805 Sandalwood Dr. From the moment you arrive you will admire this 3 bedroom 2 bath home. The brick front, bay window, and double beveled doors invite you inside. The large brick foyer, which is also the back of a gas log fireplace in the living room/ family room, opens to the kitchen with granite counters and cathedral ceiling. Through the family room doors you can view the screened lanai and pool area, as well as the heated spa. This home boasts many upgrades done by local premium contractors. Anyone would love to call this their home. This is not a short sale. Close at buyer’s convenience.
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00
,000
5 $29
3401 Trapnell Rd. Two block homes on 8.5 acres! Live in one home, rent the other, or bring along your Mother-in-Law. Main house features 4 bedrooms/2 baths and in-law is a 1 bed/1 bath home. All on a 7-acre producing farm with a 6” well, currently leased for income. This property is also zoned for horses. NOT a short sale and priced at appraised value
0 9,00 1 2 $
609 Evers St. Historic District. Step back in time with this beautiful 3 bedroom 2 bath home , plus studio apartment on back courtyard with fountain, landscaped yard, and adjoining private office with its own wood burning fireplace. As you enter the foyer of the main house, you enter a living room with dazzling wood floors, warm molding, and another wood burning fireplace. The family room opens to the courtyard, and is joined to the remodeled kitchen with granite counter tops. All the appliances are included in both the main house and studio apartment. This is a must-see home if you like brick streets and homes of yesteryear! It’s priced to sell; owner is moving - NOT a short sale.
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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sports » wrestling school for six months, and then on to Steinbrenner High School beginning with their inaugural year, 2009-10. Noble has been back to teaching ever since, settling into a perfect situation for him as the school’s first and only wrestling coach and one of the most respected and successful coaches in the county. As Steinbrenner’s head coach, Noble has picked up one district championship (2010-11), and has won 113 matches as well as sending six wrestlers to the state championships. He, his wife Katy (who is a great supporter) and their two sons, Truman (10) and R.J. (7) make their home Plant City. The boys learned the sport well from their dad as each received national attention in December when R.J. claimed first place in the 8 and under class and Truman placed fourth in the 10 and under division at the Dixie Nationals in Atlanta. The top six finishers in each weight class were awarded All American honors. The boys wrestle for the Caveman Wrestling Club, coached by Hall-of-Famer, Mike Joyce. “The boys started out in Judo. It’s similar to wrestling especially at that age. Today, they still participate in judo, but their main focus is wrestling,” said Noble. “Then they started coming out to practices and matches (at Steinbrenner) and getting to know the wrestlers that led to their love for the sport.”
Plant City’s wrestling family: R.J .Noble, Paul Noble, and Truman Noble. Photos by Joe Bowles
Learning from the Teacher All American Sons Learn from Coach and Father F or Paul Noble, life means “teaching.” Noble is a part-time employee at Plant City’s YMCA, teaching wrestling on Wednesday and Fridays evenings from April to August. Noble should know his subject matter as well as anyone. He learned it from his success on the mat and from his success in the coaching box. Noble, a native of New Jersey, moved to the Gibsonton area when he was fourteen. He
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enrolled at East Bay High School where he played football and was a member of the wrestling team. When Noble graduated in 1990, his wrestling resume included two district titles, two region titles and more career wins than any Indian in East Bay history. From there, Noble enrolled at Northeast Missouri State University, now known as Truman University, and became a member
A sport that Noble loves to teach. He believes that wrestling is also a great way to teach his sons about dealing with adversity. Noble’s main lesson is, “Know right from wrong and do what is right and then you don’t have to worry about anything else.”
For the past couple of years, Noble has taught through others, too. His sons have attended two camps at Oklahoma State College the past couple of years. One was a written By: Joe Bowles technique camp and the other was designed for those in middle school and older. The of the wrestling team. Later, Noble summer before, the boys received a lot of transferred to the University of South attention from Coleman Scott, an Olympic Florida, receiving his degree in 1996. bronze medalist (132-pounds) at last year’s Summer Olympics in London. His first job was back at his alma mater, East Bay, where he coached football and Noble’s life is teaching. Not just in the wrestling for 3 ½ years. From there he classroom or in the gym but to his sons, as went to Battle Mountain High School in well. They’re learning from one of the better Vail, Colorado for a year. Then, into the teachers, even if he is their dad. private sector for the next 8 ½ years, before returning to the classroom at Blake High
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foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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MS
sports » chili’s Athlete of the month
3001 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City, FL 813-764-8548 | www.chilis.com
Omar Castro
Anticipating the Future, Soccer Star Pursues Professional Contract written By: Joe Bowles | Photo By: anthony sassano
S
ixteen year-old Omar Castro has ambitions. He wants to play soccer professionally… not someday in the far future… but right away. He would do so tomorrow if he could, but he can’t sign professionally until he is eighteen. Castro, however, is preparing for that day. Every morning he’s up early. Then it’s off to the gym where he religiously works out. Breakfast is next followed by schoolwork. Castro is home schooled, so from about 9 to 4 every day he is on the computer with his Florida Virtual School classes (3.8 GPA). At 5, soccer practice begins. When practice is over, it’s back to the house to chill out or watch soccer on T.V. This is his routine nearly every day and he loves it. Omar was recently named Most Valuable Player at the Tampa Bay Sun Bowl, a national soccer tournament held the last week of December for the past thirty-five years where elite teams from all over the country are invited to play in front of hundreds of fans that also include more than 100 college coaches. Penn State, Florida Gulf Coast, and UCLA are a few of the colleges that have shown interest in Castro, but if Castro has his way, he would like to bypass college for the professional ranks in Europe.
understands the game. He has a vision of the field and anticipates what happens before it happens. Off the field, he is a humble kid with a heart for others, but on the field, he is competitive. Soccer is in his blood.” Rossiter ought to know. You see, few people know Castro as well as Rossiter does. For the past five years, Castor has lived with his coach. Castro’s parents, Jesus and Regina Castro, made a selfless decision when Omar was eleven that they felt would benefit their son’s future. “I am from a big family, (four boys and three girls) and my parents knew that Steve could help me better my life and could help me pursue my dream and so they made a decision that they knew would put me in the best environment to be successful,” said Castro.
“My #1 goal in life is to be a professional soccer player,”
At the Tampa Bay Sun Bowl, Omar’s team, the Plant City Lancers 17U took home the top prize in their age group as they cruised to the championship game with victories of 4-0, 4-0, 3-0, and 6-0. In the finals, the Lancers defeated a team from Kentucky 9-3, with Castro getting the final goal of the match as he chipped the ball over the goalie’s head on a breakaway. Lancers’ Coach Steve Rossiter sings Castro’s praises, “He is what the scouts call a ‘special player.’ He
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Rossiter has legal custody of Castro, but Castro is still close to his family. They see one another all the time and they go to church together every week. Besides, Rossiter is almost like family anyway. You see Rossiter’s son is married to Omar’s sister.
Recently Castro signed with ExtraTime, a soccer-consulting firm from Barcelona that scouts and develops international players. Through ExtraTime, Castro spent two weeks in Holland working with Vitesse, a Division I club. He will be showcased in Germany and Croatia in the months ahead in anticipation of his eighteenth birthday. “My #1 goal in life is to be a professional soccer player,” Castro emphasized. There are no doubters, among those who know Castro, that his vision of the field, anticipating “what happens before it happens,” won’t also apply to his life, as well.
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Across From Farmer’s Market
sports » sports team of the month stop the first and third penalty kicks and the Raiders prevailed 3-2, sending them to region competition with a #1 seed and home field advantage. In the region quarterfinal, Plant City prevailed over Tarpon Springs 3-2. Kellee Brown, Christina Gutierrez, and Lorena Gutierrez picked up goals for the Raiders. In the semifinal, the Raiders were pitted against Seminole, the team that sent the Raiders home in last year’s semifinal game. With the Raiders leading scorer, Ericka Lott, absent while competing in the Strawberry Festival Queen contest, Roberts changed game plans and this year’s outcome was different as Plant City eked out a 1-0 win in a defensive struggle.
Front Row: Hannah Singletary, Nidia Gutierrez, Kellee Brown, Nidia Castro, Tori Nizamoff, Stephanie Galloway Second Row: Kelsey Brevik, Courtney Carter, Christina Gutierrez, Diana Corzine, Ericka Lott, Caroline Sessa Third Row: Kassandra Martinez, Alicia Marquez, Mary Futch, Taylor Michael, Lorena Gutierrez, Kendra Molina Fourth Row: Coach Caleb Roberts, Deanna Rodriguez, BreAnn Ruedemann, Kylee Burroughs Photo courtesy of Caleb Roberts
Plant City High School Girls Raiders’ Girls Make it to Soccer Team Region Soccer Finals F or Plant City High School girls soccer coach Caleb Roberts, the Raiders’ loss to Lakewood Ranch in the Region 3 finals was disappointing, but he saw the run to the championship game as more of a stepping-stone for the future. You see, the girls have ventured farther in post-season play than any previous soccer team in school history, boys or girls. And, with only three seniors on the team, the years ahead are looking bright.
their first opponent. In the Raiders’ season opener, they took on a strong Wharton team that has already picked up two wins in a preseason tournament. The Raiders, however, held the Wildcats to a 3-3 tie.
“We employed more of a defensive strategy,” said Roberts. “We wanted to play good solid defense and planned to take our chances at strategic points in the game where we might get a scoring opportunity.”
For Roberts, that opportunity took place in the 55th minute of the game, as Christina Gutierrez made good on her penalty kick for the game’s only score. It was Gutierrez sixth goal in four games. Roberts also assigned written By: Joe Bowles speedster Kelsey Brevik to Seminole’s and East Bay ended District 9 play tied for leading scorer Olivia Red. Brevik kept Red first place with identical district records of in check the entire game. 5-0-1. The tie that they both shared was a scoreless affair against each other two In the finals, Lakewood Ranch was able months prior to the district tournament. to score an early goal and then played Therefore, it wasn’t surprising that they met defense the rest of the way as the Raiders again in the district championship game. fell one goal short of making it to the state
“When we came away with a tie against Wharton,” Roberts remarked, “I figured that we might have something special in Once again, the game ended in a tie, but because they were in post-season play, this team.” the game was extended to overtime. Roberts was right. The Raiders reeled off After the Raiders and the Indians fought five wins, two ties and only one loss in through two scoreless overtimes, the Roberts, in his first year at the helm, thought their first eight games and finished the year championship would be decided by penalty that this year’s squad might be tough to beat, at 11-4-3. That is not to say that the road kicks. Fortunately, Plant City sophomore but he wasn’t sure until they encountered to the regional finals was easy. Plant City goaltender Taylor Michael was able to
championships in a heartbreaking loss.
“We knew we were playing a good team,” recalled Roberts the next morning. “It just came down to a one-goal game, but our girls gave everything they had… it just wasn’t our night.”
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DENTAL ASSOCIATES PLANT CITY
Dr. John Carter wants to invite everyone to stop by the office to meet him and the Staff of Dental Associates! Dr. John Carter is a general dentist with 17 years experience and a wide range of treatment skills from fillings/crowns and gum therapy to dental implants and orthodontics. Dr. Carter was born in Tampa and grew up in Brooksville, which has given him an appreciation for the outdoors and small towns. He received his dental degree from the University of Florida in 1996 and moved back to the Tampa Bay Area to start his practice. He is a member of the American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, and West Coast Dental Association.
... s Me
e Lov She
Dr. Carter lives in Tampa with his wife, Genie, and their two young sons, Nicholas and Zachary. They attend St. John’s Greek Orthodox Church. Dr. Carter enjoys family activities, which include biking, water sports, camping, and attending sporting events.
es Lov t e Sh No
Visit us online at WWW.DENTALASSOCIATESFL.COM Plant City - 813-719-2222
Me
SHE LOVES ME!
For all of life’s occasions!
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extra » senior of the month
Ruth Nuno senior of the month
written By: Chelsea Talavera
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uth Nuno will soon graduate from PCHS in the top 30% of the class. She has a 4.1 weighted G.P.A which makes her an Honor Grad and a member of the National Honor Society. Ruth has taken many advanced placement courses and is currently dual enrolled with Hillsborough Community College. She has made the Academic Honor Roll since 2009. She is the Captain of the PCHS Raiderettes’ Color Guard and has been a member since her freshmen year. She is also a member of the band, theatre and drama, peer mediation, the show choir and student
council. Ruth also plays varsity tennis for the high school. Ruth has volunteered countless hours as a teacher’s aide at St. Michaels. She also volunteers with Color Guard competitions and works at the Band’s booth at the Florida Strawberry Festival. She is also employed with McDonalds and is a Crew Trainer. She works thirty hours every week. She has excitedly been accepted to Florida Southern College. Ruth has won the Walker Scholarship. But don’t let her busy schedule fool you, Ruth can handle anything!
Come by and see our booth (#49) at the 2013 FL Strawberry Festival for all of your Strawberry needs!
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extra » senior of the month
Stanton Cook senior of the month
written By: Chelsea Talavera
NEW WINDOWS!
He is very involved throughout PCHS. As a freshman he joined the Debate Club. He has a knack for persuading people through conversation. He was the Sergeant of Arms his junior year. He also joined the Science Club. In the Brain Bowl competition he took third place in the trebuchet building competition. This year he was elected President of the Science Club. Stanton also enjoys dressing up for Spirit Week and was the Green Hornet for Superhero Day.
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Stanton is also a member of the Raider Marching Band. He has marched with cymbals on the drum line and this year became an officer, Quartermaster for the Uniforms. He plays the 5th bass drum which is the biggest drum on the field. In March he will again enior Stanton Cook has learned many volunteer with the band at the Florida things throughout his four years of Strawberry Festival, selling delicious high school at PCHS. Some include strawberry cheesecake and shortcake. how to lead in different group dynamics, have the will to achieve anything and how He works diligently at academics. Stanton to be outside of the box. He is a leader in has taken five Advanced Placement courses the band, Boy Scouts and academics. and passed four of them. He received the College Board distinction of being an AP Stanton entered high school with the rank Scholar. He has a 4.70 weighted G.P.A and of Star in Boy Scouts. He has made many is currently ranked 55 out of 400. friends and did things he would not have done without it. He was able to hike a part Stanton plans on attending Hillsborough of the Appalachian Trail, he learned how to Community College in the fall to earn sail a sloop and, above all, to be a leader of his Associate of Arts Degree with a focus others. Stanton began his “Eagle Project” on engineering prerequisites. Afterwards his junior year, which consisted of going all he plans on attending the University around our community and collecting old of Florida to earn a Masters Degree in computers from businesses and individuals. Aerospace Engineering. He hopes to work He then took these and refurbished them at a company like Space X, pushing the with new operating systems and a full envelope of space and air travel. package of office and teaching software. He donated them to Advantage Academy’s One day Stanton may be living in space or first grade classrooms, supplying them teaching our future Advanced Placement with eight computers. This project allowed Science classes. Whichever he chooses, we Stanton to become an Eagle Scout. know he will be successful.
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s n o i t a l u t a CongMrayra and Leroy on your up coming wedding this year
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Mayra I’m so happy and excited for you and Leroy! I love you so much and wish you nothing but the best! Love your sister!
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Michael F. Agnini, D.D.S. Matthew M. Agnini, D.D.S. Andrew P. Agnini D.D.S.
Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce presents:
March 23, 2013 10 AM - 3 PM At the
Plant City Airport 4007 Airport Road
Displays, Demonstrations, and Information:
Planes Remote Control Planes Model Trains Automobiles Police Dog Demonstrations Fire Department Fly Overs Trophy Presentation at 2:30pm
Other things to do:
Free Flights for Kids (space limited) Provided by the EAA Young Eagles
(ages 8-17, registration closes at 1pm)
Kids Play Area DJ Wayne, Kustom Karaoke Vendors Scouting Badge opportunities (Aviation and Search & Rescue) Computer Flight Simulator
FREE ADMISSION $5 PARKING
For More Information Contact: Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce - 813-754-3707 info@plantcity.org
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extra » al ruechel
Gun Control: A loaded issue! Written By: Al Ruechel
So, on the one hand, you have the right to bear arms guaranteed by the constitution and our forefathers who were clearly more worried about government running rough shod on “we the people” than guns being used by criminals. Any talk of trying to change the second amendment is just that—talk meant to stir up emotions rather than dealing with a problem that screams for attention, thanks to places like Newtown, Columbine, Phoenix, a temple in Wisconsin, and the list goes on.
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rowing up in small town America with lots of relatives working their farms you’d think I’d be a gun guy. I did have a pellet gun which my grandfather encouraged me to use on the hundreds of pigeons that used to live up in the top of that huge barn. He gave me a dime for every one I killed. For a while I liked the money and didn’t have too much lost love for the birds that quickly ruined hundreds of bales of hay and pooped on everything. Eventually it got old. I never progressed on to larger game but it just didn’t seem fair to me: huge powerful gun in hand, beautiful, graceful deer lying dead with blood pouring out of a tennis ball sized wound. Once my wife’s uncle Jim took me out with his 12-gauge and we attempted to turkey hunt in the backwoods of Missouri. I only got one shot off and managed to kill a tree as I swung around--- bark flying in all directions. I swear I could hear the squirrels and wild turkey laughing in the distance. I wasn’t blind to the love of hunting from my brother in law who tracks big game out in Nebraska and Montana. I don’t hold it against anyone that loves guns. I just don’t understand it! Worse yet, this all gets mixed together in a vitriolic soup when human victims are tossed into the dialogue. Trouble with any of the arguments is that you can’t mix hunting in with talk of gun violence in our country. And that’s what happens all too often.
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On the other hand is a very simple notion: the more guns out there the greater likelihood they are going to be misused and kill people. How can you argue against that? Math is math! Now let’s add humans to the mix. Good guys and bad guys and lots of mentally unstable people who will try and get hold of a gun or guns anyway they can. We’d all like to believe there is something we can do, create a new law, ban a certain class of guns, restrict ammunition sales, require more detailed background checks, blah, blah, blah. Doing something makes us feel better. But it creates a false sense of security… which may be worse than doing nothing. Still, let’s not shy away from having that discussion! If it was your child cut in half by bullets from a crazed 20 year old wouldn’t you demand some action? Wouldn’t you be taking up a collection to pay for an armed security guard at your child’s school? Wouldn’t you be pressing for legislation to limit the number of devices that could get into the hands of unstable individuals? Wouldn’t you want to stop evil before it raised its ugly head near you, in your home, in your business, in your church? Defend the constitution, you bet. But do something that shows we as a society aren’t willing to let our children be slaughtered without having a no-holds barred debate about the devices that can defend our constitution as well as take the lives of so many innocents.
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extra » derek maul Fact is, there are many potentially effective approaches to any given challenge our nation faces. It’s a great thing to talk about the differences, to promote the various merits and drawbacks, to argue the logic, to discuss the social implications and more. Some plans are going to be more effective, some less. Compromise, small victories, and a whole lot of give and take come with the process. But, at some point, something has to be done. But, not if it’s more important to be “right” than to be a faithful steward of the responsibility to govern.
ANSWERS:
Show me the person who has all the answers when it comes to faith and I’ll show you someone who is dangerously arrogant and sadly insecure. God already sent Jesus, and you’re not him.
On the Polarizing Need to be “Right” O Written By: derek maul
why it was so important to be right, and ne by-product of having an “observer” why it was so important that “those other frame of mind is the ability to see people” knew that they were wrong, or why both sides of a story. somebody had to be labeled as wrong in the first place? I’ve been this way all my life. Listening; asking questions; standing outside of what’s The sad phenomenon is front and center in going on; trying to walk around with my many churches, where it appears to be more eyes and ears open before saying anything. important to be “right” (and for the other guy to be wrong) than it is to be a faithful I’ve always been legitimately astounded by witness to the Gospel of Love. polarization; it’s simply never made any sense.
CHURCH:
When I was a teen I remember watching people getting bent out of shape about church, staking out opposing positions. It was as if the Universe would come to a crashing halt if everyone else didn’t agree with some narrow viewpoint. I remember wondering why people couldn’t just enjoy their relationship with God, and
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NEXT VERSE, SAME AS THE FIRST:
This inability to live and to worship with people who disagree with us (folk who are guided by the same Bible, who love the same God, and who follow the same Jesus) is another version of the same kind of arrogance and narrow-spiritedness that is currently gripping Washington.
How many ways can I say this? • All human knowledge is partial • All statements of faith fall short of the mark • All political theories are simply a small piece of a complex puzzle • Consensus is a moving target • Hard questions are more helpful than easy answers • I don’t know all that much myself, and I need the wisdom and encouragement of other people • “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child” • “When I became a man, I (should) put the ways of childhood behind me” • “For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; it’s only then that we’re going to be able to see face to face” • “Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.”
Show me the person who holds the nation “And now these three remain: faith, hope hostage over their need to be right and I’ll and love. But the greatest of these is love.” (1 show you a politician who lied when they Corinthians 13:11-13) swore to serve the people of the United States.
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DENTAL ASSOCIATES PLANT CITY
Dr. John Carter wants to invite everyone to stop by the office to meet him and the Staff of Dental Associates! Dr. John Carter is a general dentist with 17 years experience and a wide range of treatment skills from fillings/crowns and gum therapy to dental implants and orthodontics. Dr. Carter was born in Tampa and grew up in Brooksville, which has given him an appreciation for the outdoors and small towns. He received his dental degree from the University of Florida in 1996 and moved back to the Tampa Bay Area to start his practice. He is a member of the American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, and West Coast Dental Association. Dr. Carter lives in Tampa with his wife, Genie, and their two young sons, Nicholas and Zachary. They attend St. John’s Greek Orthodox Church. Dr. Carter enjoys family activities, which include biking, water sports, camping, and attending sporting events.
Visit us online at WWW.DENTALASSOCIATESFL.COM Plant City - 813-719-2222
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Candy’s Corner
C
ome live with me and be my love, and we will all the pleasures prove. And I will make thee beds of roses and a thousand fragrant posies, a belt of straw and ivy buds, with coral clasps and amber studs. Fair-lined slippers for the cold, with buckles of the purest gold. And if these pleasures may thee move, Come live with me and be my love. Saint Valentine’s Day, commonly known as Valentine’s Day, is observed on February 14 each year and has evolved into an occasion in which lovers express their love for each other by presenting flowers, offering confectionery and sending greeting cards known as ”valentines.” The month of February was always a funfilled and exciting month for me. There was Valentine’s Day, my sister Karen’s birthday, my very close friend Cindy Jeffries’ birthday, my best friend JeanAnn Weaver’s birthday, and the February edition of my favorite magazine, Tiger Beat. That meant three birthday parties, a party at school, a big box of candy and gift from my Daddy, and…hopefully a new poster of Donny Osmond, David Cassidy, Tony DeFranco, or Bobby Sherman included in my magazine. Hey, just how much fun could a young girl have back in the early 1970s?
In downtown Plant City, love was in the air and everywhere you looked around. Kirby’s bakery had lace doily covered shelves packed with red, white, and pink Valentine cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. The window displays had swirling cupids hanging from string, tissue-paper hearts, and satincovered candy boxes. Speaking of satin-covered candy boxes, one of my favorite things was to be riding home on the school bus heading East on Reynolds Street when our bus would stop at the red light right in front of Myrle Henry’s Drug Store. “Brother Myrle”, as he is affectionately known to so many in our town, would have a huge wooden heart in the window that held a large display of satin covered, heart shaped boxes of candy. They were all covered with lace and flowers and ranged in sizes from small to too big to hold. They were the most beautiful boxes that I had ever seen. All the girls would move to the left side of the bus as we approached the red light so that we could look out the window and see all the candy on display. When our school bus turned right onto Collins Street we would then look into the window of White’s Drug Store. They also had a beautiful window display. All us girls would ogle over those candy boxes all the way home.
extra » candy’s Corner grade ahead of them and I had to be too cool for school. The pressure was on. I would have my mother write a note to my school bus driver giving me permission to get off the bus in front of the post office. I would walk to my father’s office which at that time was the Neighborhood Service Center and is now the Trinkle Law Firm. My father would walk me across the street to The Other Brother, which was a gift shop connected to the right side of White’s Drug Store. I remember there was a beautiful fountain inside stocked with orange Koi fish. There was also a sign taped on the fountain that said: “Please do not touch the fish.” Probably because every time I went in that store I would try to catch one of the fish when I thought no one was looking. The Other Brother was such a nice shop with cards and gifts like little china figurines, candles, salt and pepper shakers, and unusual decorating items for your home. I also remember the three ladies that worked in the shop. I believe their names were Madge, who was a short dark haired little lady, Marie with the almond-shaped eyes, and Kathleen Sanchez. Kathleen was a beautiful blonde teenage girl who was the daughter of Plant City’s very own Dr. Alex Sanchez. If I did not find the right gift there then I had my Dad drive me over to Ruby’s Gifts on East Baker Street. This was a totally different short of shop. In fact, my father would always say: “Are you sure you want to go there?” Ruby’s carried things like velvet black-light posters, hand-carved African figurines, incense in the cone or stick, candles of all shapes and sizes, strobe lights, hanging artwork such as peace signs or smiley face mobiles, and anything to do with a psychedelic nature. The store always smelled of Patchouli as you shopped to the sounds of Ravi Shankar’s sitar music. Ruby herself would emerge from behind beaded curtains to assist her shoppers. I always felt as if I were in the middle of the Beatle’s “Strawberry Fields Forever” video when I was there. But remember, a kid’s got to do what a kid’s got to do. If I wanted to buy the grooviest of grooviest gifts and be the big hit of JeanAnn’s and Cindy’s birthday parties, then I had to shop at Ruby’s.
With all three very important birthday parties coming up, my sister Karen’s birthday on the 10th, Cindy Jeffries’ on the 18th , and JeanAnn’s on the 19th , I had some major shopping to do. I had a lot of pressure to get just the right gift. My sister’s birthday meant that our house would be filled with teenage girls who really did not want a little sister hanging around. Cindy’s and JeanAnn’s birthday When I was looking for a sophisticated parties meant that I had to get the most gift for my teenage sister, then I would groovy of groovy gifts because I was a have my mother drive me to The
Strawberry Pond, which was at the old Plant City Mall. There you would find Mrs. Mary Gaye Crum and her son Tommy, who sold everything strawberry. Strawberry china, strawberry glassware, strawberry stationary, strawberry jewelry, strawberry candles, strawberry incense, strawberry perfume, anything and everything strawberries. They would even wrap your gift with strawberry wrapping paper. The next important item on my agenda for February was to have my mother take me to the Speedee Shop on Park Street to pick up the February issue of Tiger Beat Magazine. (The building still stands but is boarded up and is to the right of HCC.) I could not wait to see the poster, which would be tightly stapled inside. I had my mother drive me home as fast as she could. I rushed into the house, got the scissors, and had her carefully remove the staples. I could hardly wait to hang my new Donny Osmond poster that said:”Will you be my Valentine?” with him clutching a giant teddy bear. I decided that I wanted to hang my new poster from the ceiling right over my bed. That way I could look up at Donny when I went to sleep and look at Donny when I woke up. I hung that poster all by myself by jumping on my bed like it was a trampoline with thumb tacks in one hand and my shoe in the other. Needless to say, I got in so much trouble for putting holes in my ceiling and jumping on my bed like that. When Valentine’s Day came, I would get off the school bus and run all the way home. My father would have valentines and heart-shaped boxes of candy for me, my sister, my mother, and even one for JeanAnn. When my father passed away my mother made sure that JeanAnn got a box of candy the following year. My mother drove the box of candy to JeanAnn’s office and left it on her desk. When JeanAnn opened her card, it said: Love, Papa. Happy 50th Birthday JeanAnn and Cindy! Where has time gone? To all who have Valentines this year, may that love grow more each day. For all who are single, may you never forget to love yourself first and may the love you’ve been waiting for find you.
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BUY ONE GET ONE FREE Any Milkshake
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Wood Grain, Vinyl are now offered by Williford Flooring Company in addition to our great selection of Hardwood Flooring
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February in Florida… The Perfect Storm T Written By: gail jones
he Wikipedia definition of a “Perfect Storm” is as follows: “A perfect storm is an expression that describes an event where a rare combination of circumstances will aggravate a situation drastically.” Sound familiar? This is exactly what we experience here in Hillsborough County at this time of year. And yes, I know it is not hurricane season…not even close. But in this part of Florida, February does have a rare confluence of events. It’s a simple formula: Strawberry Season + Valentine’s Day = Mass Demand for Chocolate Covered Strawberries
in ooth one si or rely until sm a deeper pool on to dredge constant e forms s the need the toothpicks in at d ol oi oc av d ch k the as er an stic e Christm ping easi time and makes dip e berries one at a get creative with th olate oc th n ch ip ca e D u th k. yo r sk dun whi …(o am block ly have to nds to want to a Styrofo ra ill probab te igerator fo ns.) You w es as the surface io at or ec in the refr d several tim place the berries ly us ro , go d vi n! hen finishe ouble boiler clea harden. W ed ts and lick th ushed nu half hour kles or cr white with sprin d s te rie el m er b ith the drizzle w decorate mi-soft, or You can are still se . when they hen fully hardened ew chocolat Day! lentine’s Happy Va
easy as it sounds. Over the years, I have tried different types of chocolate, various methods of melting the chocolate to achieve the perfect dipping consistency, and any number of dipping, dredging and dunking techniques.
strawberries that stick to each other and anything else they come into contact with. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler and stir constantly. Some people use a microwave, but I find that a slow consistent heat source keeps the chocolate “dippable”.
And my newest discovery…impale the berries on a toothpick and after dipping, stick them in a Styrofoam block and set in the refrigerator to harden. This allows the berries to set up without the unattractive flattened backside that results when they are cooled on parchment paper. (Unfortunately, It is difficult to keep the melted chocolate I did not have any Styrofoam when I at an even dipping consistency. Do not be decided to try this method, so I took a So how hard can it be to turn out a two tempted to add butter or a dash of cream wreath off the front door, flipped it over ingredient recipe? The answer is, not as as some recipes suggest. This will prevent and used the straw backing as a drying the chocolate from fully hardening and base…It was a little difficult to fit in the fridge, but I think it you will end up with fudgy looked rather festive!) Now I love strawberries with chocolate as much as the next gal, but I am not willing to pony up two dollars apiece. After all, we have some of the best strawberries in the world right here in our own backyard and the only other ingredient necessary is…you guessed it…chocolate!
Here is what I have learned: With only two ingredients, the quality is important. Strawberries aren’t an issue here, but use the best chocolate you can find. Also make sure the berries are dry or the chocolate won’t adhere.
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Strawberry Dishes F Written and photos By: Amanda Deck
entertainment » dining profile
Strawberry Eats and Treats in Plant City
lorida Strawberry Festival season is right around the corner, which means you’ll most likely consume loads of Plant City’s king crop. But you don’t have to wait once a year to enjoy strawberry treats! From salads to sundaes, cookies to candy, the menus of local eateries are filled with strawberry items. And who knows, maybe you’ll find a new favorite—like I did!
Ice cream
Dairy Queen’s Chocolate Covered Strawberries Waffle Bowl Sundae 1902 W Reynolds St. Give some mega relief to your sweet tooth with this delight. Nestled in a plain or chocolate dipped waffle bowl lies a towering mound of creamy DQ vanilla soft serve, topped with countless strawberries, covered in a thick chocolate fudge shell, and surrounded by pillows of whipped cream. This massive sundae is perfect for sharing. In addition to this cool dessert, Dairy Queen also serves up other strawberry-themed delights: the simple Strawberry Sundae, the Choco-Covered Strawberries Blizzard, and my personal favorite--the Strawberry CheeseQuake Blizzard.
Salad Olde Town Pizzeria’s Strawberry Walnut Salad 3011 James L. Redman Parkway I usually avoid mixing fruit salad with garden salad. In my mind, vegetables belong in garden salads, not fruit—and especially not strawberries. Therefore, I was very hesitant to try Olde Town Pizzeria’s award-winning Strawberry Walnut Salad. Yet after the first bite, I was hooked and am already craving another! This salad is absolutely delicious, a perfect blend of crisp lettuce, sliced strawberries, shredded mozzarella, and red wine vinaigrette dressing. What makes this salad one of the best? The candied walnut pieces sprinkled on top! *Strawberry salad is also served at Fred’s Market and Camilla Rose. Strawberry Hut’s Strawberry Shake 1505 N Wheeler St. Known throughout town for their authentic Cuban sandwiches, Strawberry Hut’s menu also features some tasty ice cream delights that shouldn’t be passed up, including classic strawberry shakes available in 16, 24, and 32 ounce versions—a size for all appetites. This smooth treat is filled with fresh strawberries and pairs nicely with any sandwich, sub, or salad. *Strawberry shakes are also served at Parkesdale Farms, Brandon Farms, Twistee Treat, and Dairy Queen.
shake
Candy
Neumeister’s Candy Shoppe Chocolate Dipped Strawberries 106 Drane St NE, Suite 2. When I visited Neumeister’s on my quest for delicious Plant City strawberry treats, the vintage sweet shop was right in the middle of preparing for a busy Valentine’s Day season, and what’s a better romantic gesture than surprising your loved one with chocolate dipped strawberries from an old-fashioned chocolatier? Neumeister’s homemade chocolate matches perfectly with succulent Plant City strawberries. And while you’re at the downtown candy shop be sure to grab some chewy strawberry gummies and strawberry-shaped chocolate pops sure to please all ages.
Cookies
Parkesdale Farm Market’s Strawberry Cookies As I walked toward the cash register to grab my strawberry shortcake, this unique baked goodie immediately caught my eye, and I just had to get one for myself. The moist and chewy Parkesdale Strawberry Cookies covered in powdered sugar come in packs of 12, which gave me the opportunity to share. No surprise, they were a hit at the FOCUS office and are sure to be gone soon! These cookies, made with fresh Plant City winter strawberries, truly are “Old Fashioned Goodness.”
Shortcake Parkesdale Farm Market’s Strawberry Shortcake 3702 W Baker St If you haven’t made a trip to Parkesdale Farm Market yet this winter, you better hurry up! You don’t want to miss out on this Plant City staple—strawberry shortcake, which is only available at Parkesdale Farm Market from January to mid-April, when the Florida winter strawberry season is at its peak. Parkesdale’s world-famous dish starts with a moist square of cake covered in a cup of juicy strawberries and garnished with generous amounts of whipped cream. And for a few cents extra, try this delectable treat with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. *Strawberry shortcake is also served at Fred’s Market, Johnson’s BBQ, Whistle Stop Cafe, and Brandon Farms.
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» dining guide
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chili’s
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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
FIRST CHOICE SOUTHERN BAR-B-QUE
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or the best barbecue in town, we are your First Choice! Family owned and operated for 20 years, we value providing top quality barbecue with every bite. At First Choice, you will find the best southern style barbeque pork, beef brisket, smoked turkey, chicken, sausage, corned beef, and ribs! Our warm and friendly atmosphere is open for lunch and dinner, Monday 11am-7pm and Tuesday-Saturday 11am-8pm. Smokin’ your catering needs everyday.
712 SOUTH COLLINS STREET PLANT CITY, FL 33563 813-752-7788 www.firstchoicebbq.com
linda’s crab shack
“G
et Your Crabs and Beer!” If you are looking for a place where seafood or southern cuisine in a casual dining atmosphere come together, Linda’s Crab Shack is the place.
Linda’s offers a variety of options at a decent price. Choose from deviled crab, crab cakes, steamed or fried shrimp and clams, fried grouper, crawfish or one of their un-fish alternatives -- chicken, BBQ pork, ribs, and steak. There are a wide variety of sides and enjoy a slice of homemade cake. Lunch is served until 3 p.m. Now accepting Credit Cards
Downtown Plant City 200 E. Reynolds St. Plant City, FL 33563 813-754-0492
mi casa
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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
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olde town pizzeria
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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
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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
Shrimp & Co. Express
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ome visit the freshest Shrimp Plant City has to offer at Shrimp & Co. Express and Enjoy some Fresh hand breaded Shrimp with hush puppies, spicy slaw and seasoned herb potatoes, nine Po Boys Shrimp & Co. Dishes to choose from and more. Open Tues- Thurs. 11am-8pm Fri and Sat. 11am-9pm Closed on Sunday and Monday.
3503 W. Baker Street (U.S. 92), Plant City Fl. 33563 (813) 752-9040 • www.shrimpandco.com
taco rey
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hether you’re in the mood for soup & salad or the tastiest mexican food in town, Taco Rey Mexican Grill is the King! We are 100% authentic and here to serve you 7 days a week. Our food is freshly prepared for your viewing pleasure and with only the finest ingredients. We offer daily lunch specials and call to order service! Adults and kids will love our menu and Aguas Frescas De Sandia, traditional natural home made drinks.
1818 James Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33563 813.754.2100 foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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Experience the
entertainment » keel and curley
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110 W REYNOLDS ST. SUITE 104 Photo by: Deana Garrison
Keel and Curley Never a Dull Moment NOW OPEN IN T PLANT CITY
written by: deana garrison
he Wilder Road Boys of Plant City proved to be a great hit at Keel and Curly Saturday, February 2nd, as they played their good ole country music. Many people gathered for mingling and entertainment. Although it was cool weather, Keel and Curley thought of it all with many outside heaters scattered around to keep everyone comfortable.
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1846/1848 J. L. Redman Parkway | Located in the Strawberry Plaza
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Members of the Wilder Road Boys band include Andy Snow, Jim Lindsey, Dave Hunt, Kevin Cannole, and Thomas Brooks, who was filling in for Norman Jackson. After many years of playing in bands, these men came together to form The Wilder Road Boys. Being very critical of bands playing music that I have heard for many years, I have to say, when this band started playing Don’t Rock The Juke Box, they had me. Sounding the way I’ve always heard it, I found myself smiling and tapping my feet to the beat. They definitely know their music and have a way about them that keeps the audience happy. If you have never visited Keel and Curley, you really need to pick a Friday or Saturday and head on out. Visit their website for upcoming events at www. keelandcurleywinery.com. If you just want to have fun or come out to celebrate a
special occasion like a birthday, anniversary, job promotion, or anything that gives you a reason to party, then this is the place for you. On this last visit Bob and Jackie McGavock were celebrating their 28th anniversary while watching a good friend that was a member of the band. I have to say, Keel and Curley is one of the most relaxing entertainment places I have ever visited. In April, they will have their sixth annual Blueberry Festival. Mark your calendar for April 27-28. Admission is free and so is the entertainment. You can pick blueberries and enjoy over 100 food and craft vendors. This year they will host the very first Blueberry Festival Pageant a couple of weeks before the festival. On April 13th young ladies from age 3 to age 23 can compete for their age group. The categories are Mini Blueberry Bud (ages 3 & 4), Tiny Miss (ages 5 & 6), Little Miss (ages 7-9), Pre-teen (ages 10-12), Junior (ages 13-15), Teen (ages 16-18), and Miss (ages 19-23). If you are thinking of entering or know someone who would like to enter go to the Keel and Curley website for more information. The winners of the pageant will be introduced during the Blueberry Festival. What an exciting event. Be sure not to miss out on this one.
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Sewing Machines Modern Fabrics Notions Books Patterns Classes
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120 NORTH COLLINS STREET PLANT CITY, FL 33563
(813) 659-8287
www.inspirequiltingandsewing.com 101 N. Collins Street, Plant City, FL 33563 813.704.4867
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A Salon Of Excellence Designed To Meet Your Tailored Looks Downtown Lee Building 110 E. Reynolds St., Ste. 400 Plant City, FL 33563
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St. Patricks Weekend FRIDAY, MARCH 15TH
SATURDAY, MARCH 16TH
Join us for an evening of Irish Outdoor Tent Party, $5 cover Music, song and laughter! Live Music from Plant City’s Entertainment Direct from Ireland own CLEMONS ROAD The Irish Ramblers 6pm – 10pm Smoked Corned Beef & Cabbage, DJ – Inside from 10pm – 1am Fish N Chips, Shepherds pie & more
Family Entertainment 7pm -11pm Call for Reservations
SUNDAY,
ST PATRICKS DAY
MARCH 17TH St. Pups Day* outside
Bring your pets to the pub for a pint!
2pm – 4pm Dog Show Pet Costume Contest
*all pets welcome not just Puppies
Irish Dancers & Bag Pipers Performing Live Music from 6pm – 10pm BIG BUCK DOWN Limited Menu All Weekend - Fish n Chips, Corned Beef and Cabbage, Shepherd’s Pie and other traditional Irish foods.
O’Brien’s 1701 S. Alexander Street 813-764-8818 www.obrienpubs.com | facebook.com/plantcityobriens 136
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Delivering Right to Your Door Get the most out of your clothes by bringing them to Myers Cleaners, your Sanitone Certified Master Drycleaner. Our unique Sanitone process can help clothes last longer, and keep them looking like new. Myers Cleaners will conveniently pick up your order and deliver your fine fabrics crisp, clean and fresh to your doorstep.
ity C t n a Pl y’s
Rotar
foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
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entertainment » event calendar
plant city
calendar of events
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15 – SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 17
For more information contact FOCUS Magazine at 813-707-8783 or the Plant City Chamber at 813-757-3707
Presented by Plant City Entertainment, Inc. Feb 15-16 from 8 to 10 p.m. Feb 17 Matinee from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Doors open an hour before show PCE Community Theater 101 N. Thomas St. For ticket prices and more information visit www.plantcityentertainment.com
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22
» A Catered Affair: A Musical
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16 » Strawberry Classic Car Show
4 to 8 p.m. Historic Downtown Plant City For more information contact the Chamber of Commerce 813-754-3707
» Plant City Black Heritage Month Event
Ruby C. Williams Folk Art Gallery 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Entertainment, Food, Folk Art, and much more. 2001 E. HWY 60 For more information contact Sharon Moody at 813-453-7134
» Plant City Dolphins Football and
Cheerleading Registration and Sign-Ups 9 a.m. to Noon Pre-signed Dolphins players only! Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex 2602 E. Cherry St. For more information contact info@ plantcitydolphins.com
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21 – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22 » A Catered Affair: A Musical
Presented by Plant City Entertainment, Inc. 8 to 10 p.m. Doors open an hour before show PCE Community Theater 101 N. Thomas St. For ticket prices and more information visit www.plantcityentertainment.com
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21
» 11th Anniversary Party/Readers’ Choice Awards/Business After Hours hosted by FOCUS Magazine 5:15 p.m. Keel and Curley Winery 5210 W. Thonotosassa Rd.
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» Bill Bailey Presents: Trevor Thomas
Drama Ministries 21st Anniversary Celebration 7 p.m., Doors open at 6 p.m. Shiloh Baptist Church 905 W. Terrace Dr. Concert will feature the Chuck Wagon Gang, Dixie Echoes, and Trevor Thomas. No tickets required, but a $10 donation per person will be requested at the door. A freewill offering for FCC Ministries will also be received. For more information call 813-752-8345
» Plant City Dolphins Football and
Cheerleading Registration and Sign-Ups 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pre-signed Dolphins players and first day for open sign ups Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex 2602 E. Cherry St. For more information contact info@ plantcitydolphins.com
» Charity Polo Classic
11 a.m. to 4 p.m. DI Polo 1003 Coward Rd. The 2nd Annual Charity Polo Classic will benefit Children’s Cancer Center, Wheels of Success, and Starting Right Now. After the presentation of the colors and the singing of the National Anthem by one of the children of the Children’s Cancer Center, the polo match will begin at noon. Polo stars from around the country will be playing, including John Walsh, host of America’s Most Wanted. During halftime, guests can take part in the time-honored tradition of the champagne divot stomp Cost: $150 or $250 per couple Attire: Jackets or suits for men and high heels for women For more information contact 813-466-0026
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28 – SUNDAY, MARCH 10 » Florida Strawberry Festival
303 N. Lemon St. Music, fine arts, crafts, and great festival foods. A beloved tradition throughout the community. Blake Shelton, Justin Moore, Alan Jackson, Trace Adkins, Scotty McCreery and many more will be
ONGOING EVENTS performing. Check www.flstrawberryfestival. com for more information.
SATURDAY, MARCH 2 » Plant City Bike Fest
5 p.m. Historic Downtown Plant City For more information contact the Chamber of Commerce 813.754.3707
» 40th Annual Plant City Civitan Club
Youth Parade 11 a.m. Parade beings at the State Farmers Market off Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., heads north on Alexander St., and concludes beyond the Reynolds St. festival grounds at Sammonds Rd. For information contact Pat Pogue at 813754-4680
MONDAY, MARCH 4
» Florida Strawberry Festival Grand
Parade 1 p.m. Parade route will pass by the festival on Reynolds St.
Duplicate Bridge A low-key bridge game for beginners, as well as skilled players, meets on Fridays at 1 p.m. at St. Peters Episcopal Church. You must have a partner. For more information contact Walt Arnold at 813-752-1602 The Republican Club of Plant City meets the 4th Tuesday of every month between 7:30 and 9 a.m. at Buddy Freddy’s Restaurant, 1101 Goldfinch Drive. The next meeting is March 27. Cost of breakfast is $10 for members and $15 for non-members. Come network with your neighbors in the conservative group. Strawberry Square 4401 Promenade Blvd. A full schedule of Square and Round Dancing is happening every day at Strawberry Square. Visit www. strawberrysquaredancing.com or call 813-752-0491 for more information.
Congratulations
Florida Strawberry Festival on 78 years of memories Glenn and the staff of Creative Flowers
SATURDAY, MARCH 9
» Plant City Community Choir Performs “Music of the Night” 7:30 p.m., Doors open at 7 p.m. and tickets available at 6:30 p.m. St. Clement Catholic Church 1104 N. Alexander St. For more information or advance tickets call 813-493-1979 or visit www. pccommunitychoir.com
SATURDAY, MARCH 16
Field of Roses
» Strawberry Classic Car Show
4 p.m. For more information contact the Chamber of Commerce 813.754.3707
SATURDAY, MARCH 23 » Turkey Creek School 140-Year
Celebration 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Featuring guest speakers, various displays, free food, entertainment, and much more. A time capsule will be placed. Free Admission. For more information contact Pat Ballard at pgballard@tampabay.rr.com or at 813-6591240 or 813-659-1098
813-754-1212 116 W. Alsobrook Street Plant City, Fl 33563
Delivering Right to Your Door Get the most out of your clothes by bringing them to Myers Cleaners, your Sanitone Certified Master Drycleaner. Our unique Sanitone process can help clothes last longer, and keep them looking like new. Myers Cleaners will conveniently pick up your order and deliver your fine fabrics crisp, clean and fresh to your doorstep.
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Criminal Law Felony & Misdemeanors Domestic Violence Bond Reductions Drug Charges Assault & Battery DUIs Sealing or Expungements
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David H. Barnhill
Byrd & Barnhill, P.L. AttoRnEyS At LAW
813.759.1224
206 n. Collins St.· In Historic Downtown Plant City
www.byrd-law.com The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based upon advertisements. Before choosing a lawyer ask for written information about the lawyer’s legal qualifications and experience.
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entertainment » crossword
C P L S
Finding love on st. valentine’s day created By: Calvin R. and Jackie Mathews Finding Love ACROSS 1. Little bear 4. A __ apple... 8. __-fi 11. Last name of a ’60s-’70s duo 15. Ethiopian lake 16. Took a train, e.g. 17. Spoke with difficulty 19. Selfless act 22. Early affection 23. Priest’s robe 24. Despicable 25. Word-for-word 27. Refreshing spots 28. Rock group staple 30. Tortilla maker, often 33. Eleventh-century hero 35. Brown quickly 36. With 72 Across, song from the show “Where’s Charley?” 42. File’s partner 44. Night vision 45. Adversaries 47. Family tree member 50. She-bear: Sp. 52. Rejections 54. Girl’s name 55. Chicken piece 57. Xenon or argon 60. Long scarf 61. Quality of character 62. People not to be trusted 63. “Say it __” 65. Child 67. Approx. no. 68. 1967 Dusty Springfield hit 72. See 36 Across 75. __ Fleischer 76. Tripoli resident 77. TV host 79. Writer Tom 84. __ kwon do 86. Do wrong 87. Actor James 88. “You’ve __ Long Way, Baby” 89. Tumbler’s place 90. Presidential monogram 92. Poor Clares, e.g. 93. One with two swords 95. Arrests 100. Indian chief 102. See 43 Down 105. Isn’t idle 108. Supporting piece 109. Highlanders 110. Oak nuts 112. Israelite leader 117. Dizzy
On St. Valentine’s Day 29. 31. 32. 34. 36. 37. 38. 39.
119. 121. 122. 124. 128. 129. 130. 131. 132.
Chore Big bill Looked at beforehand 1955-59 TV sitcom Parlor pieces Try to lose Ivory, for one Evening in Paris Prefix for peptic or functional 133. Condemn 134. Word div.
40. 41. 43. 46. 47. 48. 49. 51. 53. 56. 58. 59. 60. 61. 63. 64. 66. 69. 70.
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by Calvin R. & Jackie Mathews
__ sauce Doyle’s initials “__ Ring des Nibelungen” Hideaway Approves K-P center “If I __ a bettin’ man...” TV’s “How __ Your Mother” Slight coloring One of a pair With 102 Across, no way Holy __; the Vatican Competent “Exodus” author Word of enthusiasm Sprightliness City near San Francisco Concorde, for short Year abroad Took wrongfully Dummies Early 16th-century year __ Lingus Word with lift or boat Atom with zip Barn lunch Letters to click on to get info Poet’s contraction Controversial rights org. Chow __ Urges Grace’s place Blood units, familiarly
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© Puzzle Features Syndicate foCUS Magazine Plant City february 2013
141
A R O O
L E V I
C L A C O M S A M F O A B L E
U R I S
N E A T
C T A L A B A L B G U I S E
U B A N A R O R O F B A S T A R A R O R A N K T O S A S T R S A T H E A R N C Y E A G U R A I R L O V L E E B A V I E W E S E A R D Y
E G R E T S A G I L I T Y
A S N T O O L A E M B U O R G E E D S
S M A L L S K I
S I N O D E L O V E E E M A D R N C E I D R E
S C S T A P U P X A C T E C I N L O V A M E N O S B O A O K I O F L O B Y A N S I N D D T S R O N E Y E L S T A O V E T D I E T D A M N
I B M M E P Y L O A D E W I N E M R E M E T D V E E M B R O E N A J A A C A C O S K H A T S O S Y
Finding Love on Valentine's Day
T R I B A L A C L U
S N S O O O B P M E I N
Y E N S
H E S E E L E
T I N T
N E V E
O R O S
O D E S
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february 2013 focusplantcity.com
ZAXBY’S.
®
INDESCRIBABLY GOOD.
At Zaxby’s we are known for our delicious Chicken Fingerz , Wings, Zalads and Sandwiches. Visit zaxbys.com for a full menu, and come taste the difference for yourself. ™
®
2901½ James Redman Pkwy. • Plant City • 813.752.1971
Each restaurant independently owned and operated. © 2013 Zaxby’s Franchising, Inc. “Zaxby’s,” “Chicken Fingerz” and “Zalads” are trademarks of Zaxby’s Franchising, Inc.
Life is better in the Quick Lane. Auto service just got better! 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
NATIONAL SALES EVENT
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
mail in rebates of $40, $50, $60, $70, $80 on select name brand tires.
$
29.95
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 02/28/2013
813-757-6429 2000 East Baker Street Plant City, FL 33563 Service Hours Mon-Fri 7am-7pm Sat 7am-3pm
$
19.95
ON NAME BRAND TIRES
NITRO FILL FOR ALL 4 TIRES
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 02/28/2013
Must present coupon at time of write up. May not be used with any other coupon or store special. Shop supplies and installation extra. Expires 02/28/2013
fill all 4 tires with nitrogen,increases fuel economy,increases tire life, decreases tire pressure fluctuation.
ALL MAKES AND MODELS! WE’LL BEAT YOUR BEST TIRE PRICE GUARANTEED! 144
february 2013 focusplantcity.com