FOCUS Plant City 12-03 by Floyd Publications

DENTAL ASSOCIATES PLANT CITY DR. JOHN CARTER

We would like to welcome you to be part of our family. Call and schedule your appt now. 813-719-2222. (Beside O’Briens)

FREE 2ND OPINION!

COUPON

ALL PORCELAIN CROWNS Emax front teeth Zirconia core back teeth

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INCLUDES: Buildup (D2950) Porcelain Crown (D2740)

Coupon valid in Tampa, Plant City and Sun City locations only. Limited Time LAB Special Pricing. Must present ad for this price. Cannot be combined. Not good with any other offers. EXPIRES 4-15-2013.

EMERGENCIES WELCOME

BESIDE O’BRIENS

THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT.

STEAK RIBS HAM Y E K R U T Freshest MEAT and LOWEST prices in town!

Felton’s Meat & Grocery 617 North Maryland Ave. Plant City, FL • 813-752-1548 Monday - Saturday 7am-9pm Sunday 7am-8pm

www.feltonsmarket.com foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

BEST BUFFET IN PLANT CITY

Lunch $7.45 Dinner $9.99 Over 100 items Salads • Desserts Steak • Seafood & Much More

Plant City Homestyle Buffet Steak & Seafood 1914 James Redman Pkwy • 813-754-4488 Hours: Sun.-Thurs. 11a.m. - 8:30p.m. • Fri & Sat 11am - 9pm

foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

THIS COULD BE YOUR... “FACTS” We give you Start and Completion Dates

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table of contents Vol 12 issue 3

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Cover created by Jesse Starr

14 Talk Of

72 Chili’s Athelete Of

18 Local

75 Team Of

51 Feature:

89 Recipe Of

The Town

FOCUS Reader’s Choice Awards

57 Spotlight:

Sandee Sytsma

61 Business Profile: 8

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

Plant City Mortgage

The Month The Month The Month

91 Dining Profile: Twistee Treat

98 Event Calendar 101 Crossword

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.

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623 E. Alexander St., Plant City • at Alexander Crossings Plaza • 813-759-9474 foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

Letter From The Publisher

What a month it’s been for Plant City! Our families have enjoyed two parades, our world-famous Strawberry Festival, lots of big name entertainment, and we even fared well with the increase in traffic.

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

We owe our compliments and thanks, in fact, for the improved routing and great directing by our city staffers and police force. And now, as the harvest continues, we look forward to offering you a look back at the competitions and highlights of our annual berry celebration. This issue is chock full of great photos, great coverage and great news of upcoming events that you won’t want to miss –things like the Mudzilla Mud Run, for example. Are you up for the 25-obstacle, 5K challenge, Mudzilla? Will your team manage to conquer the wind, the height, the sliding and climbing and some serious wet dirt? Can you Mud ‘er done? Exercise your endurance and prepare to be tested on May 18th for a great cause—The Youth Alliance. This month, we are also a little melancholy because after 11 years of writing his opinion column for Focus, Al Ruechel has decided it’s time for a new direction. His page was always something I read first and enjoyed the fact that I never knew what topic he would address. It was like opening a surprise and one that always made me think.

It’s our hope also this Easter that your family enjoys one of the season’s worship services and some together time in celebration of the Resurrection. For the early risers, there’s even a 7:30AM Sunrise Service at Walden Lake. For it’s in the Spring we’re reminded once again, of the sacrifice that deserves our gratitude, and that we all have much for which to be thankful. And certainly, one of those on our list is your loyalty. We wouldn’t exist without it.

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

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.

Art Director Anthony Sassano

FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants and many local venues.

Distribution Belva DeVane

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.

Staff Writers Cheryl Johnston Brian West | Joe Bowles Derek Maul | Amanda Deck | Deana Garrison

Production Intern Abby Born FOCUSTV Shana Mitchell | Victoria Garren

Photographers NamPhan Photography

Contributors Gil Gott | Jo-An Lusk | Nate Davis Candy Owens

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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 Helicopters Remote Control Planes Model Trains Automobiles PCPD K-9 Demos (11, 12:30 & 2) Fire Department Fly Overs Loweâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kids Clinic

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 Vendors Scouting Badge opportunities (Aviation and Search & Rescue) Computer Flight Simulator

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Opening Ceremonies at 10:30am Trophy Presentation at 2:30pm

$5 PARKING

For More Information Contact: Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce - 813-754-3707 info@plantcity.org

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Talk of the Town

Submit your news to: editorial@ďŹ&#x201A;oydpublications.com

PCHS Top Scholars

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 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 relay. 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. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s make 2013 Relay for Life a huge success!

Congratulations Casey

Plant City High School recently announced the 2013 Tampa Tribune Honor Students. To earn this prestigious honor students must be ranked in the top 3% of their graduating class. First row: Skylar Smith, Morgan Moody, Class of 2013 Salutatorian Molly Coovert, Class of 2013 Valadictorian Sarah Winter, Taylor Adams, and Amaia Brown Second row: Kellee Brown, Sara Brummer, Nicholas Rodriguez, Samuel Carrizales, Stephanie Taylor and Katelyn Sykes.

Little League Sluggers Shine

Baseball and softball season has kicked off in Plant City. Hundreds of children and their families enjoyed Opening Day festivities at Mike Sansone Park, including Caleb and Hunter Swindle, sons of Shaun and Amanda Swindle. Read more about Opening Day in our local section.

Casey Hamilton, a senior at Plant City High School, took second place and won $150 at the District Rotary Speech Contest held recently at Florida Southern College in Lakeland. Casey earned the honor of competing in this event by capturing first place honors at the local competition held February 11th at Carrabbas. On the night of his achievement, Casey (third from left) was accompanied by his grandparents Scott Anderson, Martha Hamilton, and Starr Anderson, his father Mark Hamilton, Plant City Rotary Speech Contest Chair Amity Kokochak, and grandfather Quinton Hamilton.

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

Meet the Easter Bunny

All kids are invited to the Red Caboose to get a free picture and treat from the Easter Bunny. The event will take place March 22 and 23 from 2 to 6 p.m. at 908 Joe McIntosh Rd. and is in co-operation with Operation Lifesaver Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Safety Program.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

Talk of the Town

Submit your news to: editorial@ﬂoydpublications.com

Tip to Toe Turns 21

Entertaining the Masses Trevor Thomas performed at Shiloh Baptist Church on Friday, February 22 as part of his ministry’s 21st Anniversary Celebration Tour. His show combined theater, comedy, music, and evangelism. “Trevor has a unique ministry of humor, mime, and drama that made a tremendous impact on all ages,” stated Rev. Joseph Bowles, further describing Thomas as “someone who loves the Lord and has a heartfelt desire to share the Gospel with others.” Audience members also witnessed the performances of the Chuck Wagon Gang and Dixie Echoes.

Tip to Toe Day Spa and Gifts, a local small business with a big heart, will celebrate 21 years in Plant City. Join owner Lynn Conner for a Tip to Toe Birthday Bash on Saturday, March 16 from 12 to 6 p.m. Drop in and enjoy lunch, birthday cake, corn hole, and more! Tip to Toe is located on 101 S. Alexander Street. Contact 813-759-8637 for more information!

Showcasing Our Community

PCHS Prince and Princess

The Plant City High School Civinettes recently sponsored a Prince and Princess Contest. Students carried around containers collecting money for the American Cancer Society and the PCHS Scholarship fund. The highest fund raisers were recognized in a crowning ceremony. Junior James Orso was crowned PCHS Prince, while junior Ally Glover was crowned PCHS Princess.

The 2013 Florida Strawberry Festival Grand Parade was a success. Congratulations to winners: Best Overall/Civic Unit, Faith Lighthouse Church; Best Overall Antique Unit, Faith Cruiser Bell Shoals Baptist; Best Marching Band, Strawberry Crest High School; Best Overall Special Feature Unit, Mulberry JROTC; Best Overall Business/ Commercial Unit, Int’l Showmen’s Association; Best Overall School Club/Youth Sports Unit, Antioch Redskins. Check out more parade photos on the Focus Magazine Facebook page!

A Day to Say “I Love You”

The GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City held their annual card party and luncheon on February 14. First Vice President Peggy Hyde organized the event, with help from Marilyn Day, Betty Astin, Barbara Miller, Mary Jane Parolini, Kitty Wallace, Esther Ziegler, and many more. Proceeds from this event benefitted the Woman’s Club scholarship fund and other community projects.

First Presbyterian Church

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EASTER SERVICES March 24 - Palm Sunday Service - 10:45 am March 25 - Monday Meditation Service - 7:00 pm March 28 - Maundy Thursday Service - 7:00 pm March 31 - Easter Sunday Service - 10:45 am

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Church-(813) 752-4211 • Learning Center-(813) 752-6874 Sunday Worship Service- 10:45 am Wednesday Night Family Night: 6:00 pm Dinner Included 6:30 - Hand bell Rehearsal 7:30 - Choir Rehearsal Pastor Dr. David Delph

MARK REBMAN Publix Training Film Principal Role and Print Ad $450.00 2 Days.

CHERYL JOHNSTON Baptist Health Hospital TV Commercial Principal Role $400.00 a Day.

ERIC NUTTING Lakeland Chamber of Commerce Featured Performance at The Lakeland Center.

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2/26/2013 9:27:36 PM

foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

local

Southern Charm

Warms Hearts Celebrity Chef Whitney Miller Makes Lasting Impression

Article by Brian West

he United Food Bank of Plant City celebrated their 5th Annual Celebrity Chef Dinner on Friday, February 15 at the Trinkle Center. Each year, the Food Bank has a celebrity chef cook for the crowd. This year, the season one winner of the FOX Television show Masterchef, Whitney Miller, served as the celebrity chef. Miller hails from Poplarville, a small town in Mississippi. If you think that Plant City is small, Poplarville has a population of about 4,000, and according to Miller, they got their first stoplight after Hurricane Katrina and their first McDonald’s just last year. Now that’s small! But this small town girl has big dreams, and nothing is stopping her. As a 22-year-old, she was the first winner of Masterchef, and has since gone on to cook and speak around the globe, traveling to Africa, China and Dubai last year, not to mention many stops within the United States.

The chicken seemed to be the biggest hit as everyone raved about how moist it was. Miller introduced the meal by describing each dish and sharing some of the “tricks” to getting the recipes right. After dinner, Miller stepped onto the stage once more to demonstrate how to make the strawberry cream cupcakes. Although it was appropriate for Plant City, Miller couldn’t help but laugh when she was told that we wanted the cupcakes to be part of the event, because she knew that it was the one recipe that uses a box mix. Instead of making the cake from scratch, Miller uses an angel food Miller in the Grimes strawberry field. Photo by Brian West cake mix because it makes a lighter cupcake than traditional cake; especially when you personality stole the show. It felt good to found herself in as, “A God thing.” Miller see a young person doing so well and appear had a great time cooking and visiting, and consider the strawberry cream filling. so grounded in life. Miller even shared a everyone enjoyed her company as well. She When all was said and done, Miller’s glimpse of her faith, describing some of liked Plant City enough to return for the southern charm and down-to-earth her life experiences and situations she’s last day of the Florida Strawberry Festival.

Miller likes to promote using local ingredients when cooking. She described cooking a dish for Chefdance, an event at this year’s Sundance Film Festival. Miller brought honey and butter from Mississippi to make her recipes, leading at least one head chef to jokingly comment, “Whitney, you know we have butter here in Utah?” For this year’s Celebrity Chef Dinner, the committee that organized the event chose recipes from Miller’s cookbook, Modern Hospitality: Simple Recipes with Southern Charm. Fred’s Southern Gourmet Catering used the recipes to create the dinner for the 300 plus guests in attendance. The meal included Millers’ southern Cobb salad, carrot soufflé, creamy mashed potatoes with white Andouille gravy, jalapeno cornbread, bacon-wrapped sirloin, buttermilk panfried chicken and strawberry cream cupcakes. The food was excellent, with many in attendance saying it was the best catered meal they’ve ever had at an event.

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

Miller preparing appetizers for the Celebrity Chef VIPs. Photo by Brian West

foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

local

Babies Galore At the Strawberry Festival Baby Contest Article by Deana Garrison

he 2013 Baby Contest held on Sunday, March 3 at the Strawberry Festival proved to be a huge success as every corner of the Sweetbay Supermarket Tent was filled with precious babies waiting their turn to appear on stage even though the day proved to be a cold one. Stephanie Conrad emceed while many parents paraded their children across the stage in front of the intrigued audience and judges. The judges had a difficult time choosing the winners of the Decorated Diaper, Baby Features, and the Diaper Derby.

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

Prettiest Girl: 6-9 months, Molly Jewel Terrell; 10-12 months, Makenzie Falter; 13-15 months, Jaycee Brooke Pawelczyk; and 16-18 months, Alaina Makaylee Jones. Most Handsome Boy: 6-9 months, Bently Corben Castillo; 10-12 months, Wilder James Shierling; 13-15 months, Cooper Allen Newman; and 16-18 months, Maddox Cleveland Sewell. Biggest Eyes: Emma Jade Larson Chubbiest Cheeks: Jacob Michael Hartley Most Hair: Abela Cisneras

The decorated diaper contest was broken into different categories such as Festival Theme “Our Masterpiece of Fun,” Funniest, Most Creative, and Strawberry. The winners were Festival Theme, Stockton Asher Prieto; Funniest, Maddison Leigh Blackburn; Most Creative, Ava Rose Bikowski; and Strawberry, Rowen Ashford The most exciting contest was the Diaper Morgan. Derby. Two adults accompanied a baby on stage and one released the baby to crawl The Baby Features contest included across to the other side. When Skylar the categories of Prettiest Girl, Most Layton was set down on the carpet to go Handsome Boy, Biggest Eyes, Chubbiest across to the other side, she decided to put Cheeks, and Most Hair. her head down and cry. She wanted to just

be picked up, which was definitely a cute sight. One baby even decided to crawl off track. In the 6-9 months age group, Bently Corben Castillo won the race. When he got right up to the finish line, he took a little pause, then finally passed across the line winning the race. In the 9-12 months age group, Wilder James Shierling took the title. He zoomed across to the other side to quickly be picked up. In addition to winning his age group, Wilder James Shierling was also deemed Overall Race winner. Again, he didn’t waste much time getting to the other side. He was definitely ready to get to the person on the other end. With the crowd on their feet cheering, a great time was had by all.

foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

local

Chaplain Daniel

Middlebrooks

Comprehensive Care and Counseling

Article by Cheryl Johnston He then attended New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and became a National Guard chaplain in 1995. Since 1997 when he returned to active duty in the Army, the chaplain worked in places “The buildings have changed,” he said, “but like Iraq, Kosovo, Macedonia, Switzerland, the heart of the town is still the same. We’ve Italy, Ireland, Czechoslovakia, Prague, just been waiting for God to allow us to Egypt and Israel. come back home.” “I feel now that my worldview actually Middlebrooks and his wife Arienne (Plyler) includes the world,” he explained. “I have are both Plant City natives. They grew come alongside soldiers in every part of the up attending Berea Baptist Church and world of every faith and even those with no Pleasant Grove Baptist Church (now First faith.” Baptist of Durant), respectively. He added, “While in Israel, I had the During their 24 years of marriage, they’ve privilege of taking soldiers on three-day moved 19 times. “Hopefully and Lord retreats to explore some of the sites and willing,” Middlebrooks said, “We’re not have some great discussions. Quite a few of those came to Christ.” moving again.”

ecently retired Chaplain Major Daniel Middlebrooks is thrilled to be back in his hometown after 25 years of service in the U.S. Army.

Middlebrooks credits his wife for her strength and encouragement. “Without Arienne, I could not be where I am today. I believe that without the help of our spouses, the military would come to a halt. And actually, our leaders have realized that soldiers can’t protect us on the front if their Middlebrooks knows God called him to own homefront is falling apart. It’s critical help soldiers with their struggles after his that we support our military families.” first military tour as a physical therapist. These days the family enjoys worshipping at Hopewell Baptist where the Chaplain serves as interim pastor. When not at the church, he’s out in the community, stopping in at businesses and other places around town.

Chaplain Major Daniel Middlebrooks received a proclamation from city officials upon his recent retirement as a 25-year Army veteran and return home to his native Plant City. Pictured L-R surrounding Middlebrooks and Mayor Mike Sparkman are daughters Erica and Allison, wife Arienne, and father Lloyd Middlebrooks. Photo by Cheryl Johnston

Since their December return, the couple and their daughters, Erica, 19, and Allison, 14, have been busy reconnecting with friends and family. While his military career has come to a close, Middlebrooks is already pursuing a new venture, 4C, standing for Comprehensive Chaplaincy Care & Consulting. His business card contains the descriptor, ‘Chaplain of Plant City, FL.’ In addition, he was recently appointed voluntary chaplain to the Plant City Fire Rescue and EMS.

“I feel like a kid in a candy store. I am so ready to give back to the community that has given to me so much prayer, support and love. The heartbeat of Plant City beats at a cadence that says, ‘You’re home, and it’s good to have you back.’” To reach Chaplain Middlebrooks, call 813767-2082.

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march 2013 focusplantcity.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

local

Thirty Years in the Making…

upheld even through today’s modern society.

Dart Container Company Celebrates their 30th Year in Production

n February 23, the Dart Container Company planned a very special event to commemorate its 30th year in Plant City. The construction of the Dart Container Company’s building was completed in September 1982; however, the first official cup that rolled off the assembly line was produced thirty years ago to the day, on February 23rd, 1983. The event was hosted just outside of the front office where kids were having fun on a blow-up moonwalk and adults conversed about the lunch that would be served after the speakers. Of those adults, some of the speakers included Joe Lowry, the regional manager

for Dart; Jimmy Rigdon, the plant manager of Dart; John Darras, Senior Vice President of Dart; Pam Bondi, Florida Attorney General; Mayor of Plant City, Mike Sparkman; and finally Bob West, office manager of Dart. Seating was taken in a large tent with tables set up in the center for guests, lined with food along the sides, and a small podium attached to a long table which hosted some significant names of both the Dart Container Company itself, and Plant City’s committee.

During Hagan’s speech, he stated, “It’s companies like Dart that allow us to look Article by Taylor Thomas forward to new opportunities with an oldbeen with Dart for more than twenty fashioned hard-work ethic.” years. Several employees stood with pride to acknowledge their name as they were Another brief intermission ensued as called, some of them even had been with Rigdon invited Attorney General Pam the company for the entire thirty years Bondi to the podium for some of her of its existence. The persistence of these thoughts on the event. Bondi gleefully employees is nothing short of incredible. stepped to the podium in an aura of

Rigdon continued, “Business is a human endeavor… We’re here to recognize the employees, because without them there would be no Dart Container Company.” Afterwards, Rigdon invited Hillsborough County Commission Chairman Ken Hagan to the podium to bestow his Plant Manager Rigdon opened the event thoughts upon the dutiful employees. with an introductory speech that included Hagan commended Dart for their oldhonoring all of the employees who have fashioned style and feel that has been

excitement, pointing out the enthusiasm of some of the members of the crowd, making remarks about all of the families that came out to show their support of the company in conjunction with their close family relatives whom have been working for the Dart Container Company. As Attorney General Bondi took a seat among the other important figures of the event, Rigdon took the stand once more. This time, he welcomed Senior Vice President John Darrus up for a few words on the matter. Darrus spoke of how the Dart Container Company was founded thirty years ago, and some of his fond memories towards the beginning of their endeavor. Darrus reminisced, “…I stepped foot on this land thirty years ago and just thought it was something to build on… there was six of us when we started.” Rigdon, visibly excited and satisfied with all of the speakers, concluded the event and welcomed the dutiful employees and their families to the lunch that was waiting to be served on the sides of the tent.

From left to right: Joe Lowry, Dart Container Regional Manager; Jimmy Rigdon, Dart Container Plant Manager; John Darras, Dart Container Senior Vice President; Pam Bondi, FL Attorney General; Mike Sparkman, Plant City Mayor; Bob West, Dart Container Office Manager. Photo by Thomas Burgin

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Daddies and Daughters Dance the Afternoon Away Fourth Annual Daddy Daughter Dance

ittle ladies donned in frilly dresses decorated with bundles of lace and white shiny buttons filled Hillsborough Community College’s Trinkle Center on Saturday, February 16 for the fourth annual Daddy Daughter Dance, sponsored by the Plant City Recreation and Parks Department. Before the event began, the center’s foyer, reflecting the theme of the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, became an enchanted corridor that would soon lead the anxious party patrons to the magical and mysterious afternoon they had been so earnestly awaiting. As they found their way into the ballroom—through the mirage of balloon flowers and images of the Cheshire Cat and Miss Teapot—fathers and daughters, grandfathers and granddaughters, and uncles and nieces were warmly greeted by none other than Alice in Wonderland

Article by Dale Bliss herself, dressed in her blue pinafore and white apron. After character welcomes, photos, stage entertainment, and a delicious meal, everyone enjoyed the main event—dancing! Jason Hargrove, Plant City Recreational Supervisor, said, “The best part of the Daddy Daughter Dance is seeing everyone smiling, having a great time, and just From left to right sisters Taylor, Karsun and Kinleigh Doiron with their father Ryan. Photo by Dale Bliss dancing. This by far is my favorite event.” Wright replied, “Just being here with my college by letting us use the Trinkle Center Bringing fathers, or a father figure, into a granddaughter, Mistery.” In addition, Doug for the afternoon.” little girl’s life, even for just an afternoon, Fleming, who escorted Laryssa Demings, was the reason behind this wonderful said, “I just wanted to spend time with my The Daddy Daughter Dance is just one of event, and many fathers, grandfathers, and family.” many annual events sponsored by the Plant uncles agreed it was a special time to focus City Recreation and Parks Department. For on the little ladies that mean so much to Hargrove continued, “This event is a success more information about upcoming events, them. because of the great generosity from all of including the Youth Fishing Derby and our sponsors and the hard work from the Summer Youth Programs, contact Jason When asked what his favorite part of Plant City Recreation staff, volunteers and, Hargrove at 813-659-4256 or jhargrove@ the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party was, Sam of course, the generosity of the staff of the plantcitygov.com.

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Toddlers, Tiaras, and Cowboy Boots

The Florida Strawberry Festival Baby Parade

Article by Darcie Jarrett

he Fountain of Youth had found Seeing their family and friends in the its way to Plant City…at least for a stands, 1-year-old Gunner Snyder and his mother, Candice, were ready for the couple hours anyway! festivities to begin. Being in the military, The Strawberry Festival’s Eye Express Candice didn’t get the opportunity to enter Grandstands were filled with hundreds her older son in the parade, but due to a of spectators as the 2013 Baby Parade got family illness, she has been brought back to Plant City, her hometown. This time underway on Saturday, March 9. she was not going to miss the chance to This year’s parade had over 120 participants get involved in watching her youngest son ranging from 1 to 4 years old. The possibly win Most Handsome. competition is open to residents of East Hillsborough County, east of Hwy 301. The annual event is sponsored by the Plant Categories for the contest consisted of most City Junior Women’s Club. Natasha Davis, beautiful, most handsome, best costume, Chairperson for the organization, says this best personality and best float. Fifty is their biggest happening of the year: “This contestants are accepted for each age group, event is important to us because it helps us and ages 1 to 3 years can compete in up to raise a large sum of money for our largest two categories, but the 4-year-old group is charitable project, our Annual Shoe project. only allowed one category per child. The We supply more than 600 shoes for children group with the largest entries was 1-yearolds. continued next page

Jaycee Pawelczyk is 15 months old. Photo by Darcie Jarrett

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

2013 Baby Parade King and Queen, Dalton Newman and Maddie Harswick. Photo by Darcie Jarrett

Shaz Simmons with his mother, Leslie. Photo by Darcie Jarrett

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Baby Parade Results! 1 Year Olds

Best Personality: 1st Easton Wayne Goff, son of Jonathon & Danielle Goff; 2nd Adalynn Smith, daughter of Cody & Nicole Smith 3rd Liam Winslow, son of Ryan & Ericka Winslow

Best Costume: 1st Place Colton Taylor, son of Joey & Lisa Taylor

One-year-old participant, Gunner Snyder. Photo by Darcie Jarrett

The 4-year-old boy and girl to win the judges hearts and become the 2013 Baby Parade King and Queen were Dalton Newman, son of James and Chassity Newman, and Maddie Harswick, daughter of Jason and Melissa Hardwick. Dalton would be considered an heir to the throne…his dad, With their parents close to their sides, each James, won the position as king when he little entrant strolled down the walkway was also 4-years-old. past our new Strawberry Queen and her court, the judges table, a prize table and And so starts their year of reign over the the Strawberry Festival’s junior queen youth of Strawberry Country—until next and her court. The prize table was filled year when they pass the crown to the ones with ribbons and trophies and the most who will be their replacements and take on important items—the crowns for the 2013 the greatness of the title. Baby Parade Queen and King. “No one,” said Davis, “will leave empty-handed. Each “Next year,” Davis revealed, “We have a plan contestant will go home with a participation to revamp the entire event to be held before ribbon! A trophy will be awarded to the first the festival opens, lots of exciting changes place winner in each age category. A larger in the works for the 2014 Baby Parade.” ribbon will be awarded to second and third place winners as well.” in need for elementary schools here in Plant City. So the parents that sign up their children for the Baby Parade are not only signing up for a fun and memorable event, but helping children in need of shoes as well!”

Best Float: 1st Riley Erin Smith, daughter of Casey & Amanda Smith; 2nd Hailey Grooms, daughter of Darrin & Valerie Grooms; 3rd Jaycee Pawekczyk, daughter of Jason Pawekczyk & Crystal Leitch Most Handsome: 1st Easton Wayne Goff, son of Jonathon & Danielle Goff; 2nd Colton Taylor, son of Joey & Lisa Taylor; 3rd Caden Warren Roberts, son of Matthew & Samantha Roberts Most Beautiful: 1st Tenley Bree Newman, daughter of Bobby & Colleen Newman; 2nd Paylen Green, daughter of Sam Green & Savannah Colding; 3rd Hailey Grooms, daughter of Darrin & Valerie Grooms

3 Year Olds

Best Personality: 1st Kayla Mongomery, daughter of Howard Montgomery & Dawn Rumore; 2nd Emerson Paige Taylor, daughter of Scott & Misty Taylor; 3rd Maddox Eben, son of Matt & Christina Eben Best Costume: 1st Brightlyn Madison Willis, daughter of Jacob & Meghan Willis; 2nd Gianna Roberts, daughter of Mike & Afton Roberts; 3rd Carson Hattaway, son of Kenny & Sharla Hattaway Best Float: 1st Gage Knowles, son of Clay & Amber Knowles; 2nd Amari Jackson, son of Hasani & Amy Jackson; 3rd Annie Michelle All, daughter of Robert & Shannon All Most Handsome: 1st Peyton Samuel Creel, son of Lee & Tami Creel; 2nd Levi Newman, son of James & Chassity Newman; 3rd Deacon Hay, son of Jason & Linsey Hay Most Beautiful: 1st Amari Jackson, daughter of Hasani & Amy Jackson; 2nd Geogia Payton Pippin, daughter of Justin Pippin & Megan Trice; 3rd Alexis Garza, daughter, of Charles Tanner & Katherine Londberg

2 Year Olds

Best Personality: 1st Shaz Simmons, son of Shad & Leslie Simmons; 2nd Avalynn McClellan, daughter of Robert & Triana McLellan; 3rd Kennedy Iris Duncan, daughter of Matt & Amanda Duncan Best Costume: 1st Annslea Woody, daughter of Daniel & Brittne Woody; 2nd Shaz Simmons, son Shad & Leslie Simmons; 3rd Dylan Ray Brewington, son of D.J. & Kristie Brewington Best Float: 1st Kamdyn Mosley, daughter of Andre Mosley & Casie Yoho; 2nd Camille Hope Jewell, daughter of Patrick & Janie Jewell; 3rd Cody Lane McDowell, son of Bob & Stacy McDowell Most Handsome: 1st Dylan Ray Brewington, son of D.J. & Kristie Brewington; 2nd Malachi Caden, son of Lewis & Julie Horn; 3rd Luke Alan Drawdy, son of Nathan & Amanda Drawdy Most Beautiful: 1st Kennedy Iris Duncan, daughter of Matt & Amanda Duncan; 2nd Aubrey Ellis Duncan, daughter of Matt & Amanda Duncan; 3rd Madison Porter, daughter of Dallas & Tiffany Porter

4 Year Olds

Best Personality: 1st Jacob James Taylor, son of Erica Taylor; 2nd Emily Nichols, daughter of Brian & Stacey Nichols; 3rd Grace Burris, dauhgter of Jeremy & Erica Burris Best Costume: 1st Bella Bikowski, daughter of Scott & Stepahnie Bikowski; 2nd Olivia Lauren, Abrams daughter of Travis & Christie Abrams; 3rd Brooke Browning, daughter of Curtis Browning & Joseph & Jessica Taylor Best Float: 1st Caleb Benitez, son of Jeremy & Stephanie Benitez; 2nd Ammarae Easton, daughter of Kenny & Lindsey Easton Most Handsome: 1st (King) Dalton Newman, son of James & Chassity Newman; 2nd Emery Blu Surrency, son of Mike & Missy Surrency; 3rd Blane Newman, son of Bobby & Colleen Newman Most Beautiful: 1st (Queen) Maddie Harswick, daughter of Jason & Melissa Hardwick; 2nd Kyndall Drawdy, daughter of Jesse & Kimberly Drawdy; 3rd Brooklyn Vonstronder, daughter of Bryan & Tiffany VonStronder

Photo by Lisa Irizarry foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

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The Pee Wee Dairy Showmanship

Judging From a Smaller View Point Article by Dale Bliss

Kaylee Cloete with Martinez Middle School FFA Advisor John Hall getting prepared. Photo by Dale Bliss

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mid the laughter, music, midway noises and, of course, the ever popular cow patties, were the youngest of dairy showmanship competitors: the Pee Wee class. These little participants, with one hand clinging cautiously onto an older family member or friend and the other clinched to their dairy calf, marched proudly into the Patterson Co. Livestock Arena at the Florida Strawberry Festival on Sunday, March 3.

includes setting the calf up correctly, keeping their eye on the judge, and having some knowledge of the animal,” explained Churchwell.

Churchwell continued, “The judge talks to each child and asks them a few questions. He watches them to determine where they may be placed. Many of these exhibitors are just walking in with an animal as their first experience, but some actually have practiced…This is a contest that I hope will The Pee Wee Showmanship Class winners get the younger kids interested and will be were first place, Nicholas Hammer; second our future dairy exhibitors.” place, Austin Holcomb; third place, Jesica Kleist; fourth place, Jake Braglin; and fifth Livestock shows are a tradition at the place, Blane Rogers. Florida Strawberry Festival, and allows local students to learn about agriculture The Pee Wee Dairy Showmanship Class while showcasing their skills. Many of was led by Dairy Livestock Committee the contestants in this year’s Pee Wee Chairperson Suzanne Churchwell, with Dairy Showmanship competition were help from Teresa Thomas, Committee participating for their first time, including Chairperson for the Costume Division. three-year-old Kaylee Cloete who exhibited her Holstein, Patty, born in September The Pee Wee Showmanship is for children 2012. under the age of eight who want to show alongside an older sibling or friend. Because Other contestants have family roots the children are not old enough to show embedded deep in the agriculture industry, in the regular classes, the Pee Wee Class such as four-year-old Colton Shoop whose gives them an opportunity to be able to father Justin is a local beef rancher. In participate. addition, many young children from various 4-H organizations participated, including “In a Showmanship class, the judge is Justin and Jake Braglin from the Antiochlooking for the exhibitor that is showing Cork Clovers 4-H group, who enjoyed their animal to the best advantage. This showing their Holstein, “Oreo,” in the ring.

foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

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The Grand Champion Steer was shown by Jake Maxwell of Strawberry Crest FFA. Photo by Deana Garrison

Steer Show and Sale

Area Youth Shine in Annual Competition

any people gathered around the Patterson Companies Livestock Arena Wednesday, March 7 for the Strawberry Festival Steer Show. Hillsborough County students from FFA and 4-H clubs were dressed in their club attire showing their steer.

of Agribusiness and JROTC of District 6 stated,“The steer show went extremely well. The new Astin and Swindle Pavilions were additions that were a long time coming, but that the students and fair patrons this year saw their huge benefits. The animals had premier facilities that even our judge commented on. The Strawberry Festival The show is split into three divisions: can take pride in knowing that we provide lightweight, middleweight, and the best for the students who choose to heavyweight divisions. The judge of the participate in our shows. show was Fred Rayfield, Superintendent from Decatur County, GA who is in charge The owners of the champions of each of the National FFA Livestock Evaluation division were Division 1, Kennedy Dean; Contest each year. Rayfield took his time Division 2, Justin Stallard; and Division explaining his results in each division so 3, Jake Maxwell. Reserve Champions of the exhibitors could clearly understand and each division were Division 1, Abigail learn from his knowledge and advice. Jett; Division 2, Haley Smith; and Division 3. Mylie Feaster. The Overall These young exhibitors learn a lot during Grand Champion steer belonged to Jake the year-long process before they finally Maxwell, while the Overall Reserve Grand show and sale their steer at the Festival. Champion steer belonged to Justin Stallard. They learn the responsibility involved with caring for an animal, as well as the financial First Place Showmanship Winners aspects. Each contestant keeps a record included Junior Division, Cassidy Hastings; book that highlights every minor detail Intermediate Division, Justin Stallard; and involved in the project. Many hours, hard Senior Divison, Morgan Beasley. work, and dedication go into raising a steer. The Grand Champion, Jake Maxwell, is a This year’s Steer Show and Sale was a senior at Strawberry Crest High School, huge success. Pam Walden, the Supervisor who has shown steer every year for the march 2013 focusplantcity.com

Article by Deana Garrison

past four years. And this year was his most successful yet, selling his steer the following Saturday for $12 a pound. After his steer was sold, Jake made an announcement that $250 of his money earned would be donated to Madison’s Mission, an organization created by Madison Brewer, a 6-year-old who raises money to help those in need.

Maxwell’s generosity was not the only one at the sale. Many buyers that purchased a steer graciously donated the meat to local charity groups, including Bill Morrow of Morrow Steel, who has supported local youth and the Plant City community with his overwhelming generosity. The support that is given to our youth and local charities at the Strawberry Festival Steer Sale is unbelievable. It is great to see so much generosity and support in one little town. If you didn’t attend this great event, be sure to mark it down for next year.

Justin Stallard talks with FOCUS Magazine after his steer was awarded Reserve Grand Champion. Photo by Deana Garrison

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Hearts, Horses and Polo: A Winning Combination

2013 Reeves Charity Polo Classic Article by Dale Bliss

ith a sprite “Tally ho” and a thunderous roar from the elegantly-dressed crowd, the second annual Reeves Charity Polo Classic began at the DI Polo Tour facility on 1003 Cowart Rd. in Plant City on Saturday, February 23. The matches featured some of the top celebrity polo stars from around the country, such as John Walsh, host of America’s Most Wanted. The Golf Channel’s Lauren Thompson was also in attendance as the event host. Reeves Import Motorcars, a luxury car dealership located in Tampa with 40 years of excellence, served as the title sponsor for this wonderful social event, with funds raised benefitting several charities from around the area, including the Starting Right Now, a program dedicated to meeting the needs of the growing population

of homeless families and children in Hillsborough County; Wheels of Success, an organization that provides area families in need with reliable transportation whether in the form of car repairs, car care classes, vehicle replacement, licensing services, and car payment asisstance; and the Children’s Cancer Center. Chris Gannon, from DynaMedia of America advertising agency and a leader of the classic’s planning committee, said with excitement, “This Reeves Charity Polo Classic is only in its second year and quickly becoming one of the Bay Area’s must go to events…Being on the planning committee, our joy comes from putting on an exciting event which will provide funds for three great Bay Area charities, while having fun in the process.

Chris Gannon and Dardo Iglesias playing hard and working hard for the cause. Photo submitted by the Reeves Charity Polo Classic

After the dust settled and the athletic steeds were fed and tucked away in their stall for a well-deserved rest, the funds were tallied. The first event raised $74,000 while the second event brought in between $105,000 and $125,000, making for a very successful day. Furthermore, attendance more than doubled from last year, as over 800 fans enjoyed the action compared to 350 in 2012.

Before the match, a patient from the Children’s Cancer Center sang the National Anthem and parachutists brought in the American flag. Spectators also witnessed a dressage exhibition and could participate in a traditional champagne divot stomp and live and silent auctions. Complimentary beer and wine were also on hand, as well as a gourmet Argentinean barbecue lunch.

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Heather testing out one of the obstacles at the upcoming Mudzilla Mud Run on May 18. Photo by Anthony Sassano

MudZilla Mud Run

Godzilla of 5K Races Coming to Plant City Article by Amanda Deck

ou may want to reconsider bringing your shiny new running shoes to Plant City’s next 5K event because things are going to get downright dirty. On Saturday, May 18, the MudZilla Mud Run will be coming to town, one of the most challenging 3.1 mile-long mud races featuring 27 manmade and natural obstacles. The MudZilla Mud Run course was researched and created by a team of three designers: daredevil and master planner Mike Nelson, ex-Marine and adventurer Steve Nelson, and tri-athlete and carpenter Ken Winter. Course construction began over three months ago, and obstacles are currently taking shape, many inspired by the nationally televised fitness competition, American Ninja Warrior. During the challenge, racers will tackle obstacles like the Lilly Pad Hop, the Berlin Wall, the High Hurdler—and of course, plenty of mud!

types of race events and asked people what they liked and didn’t like,” said Mike Nelson. “We wanted to do something anyone could take part in, yet make it challenging.” Although the MudZilla Mud Run will challenge even the most physically-gifted athletes, Nelson wanted to create an environment that was safe for all involved. As a result, the design team has prepared a quality running surface. In addition, over 1.85 miles of the race will occur in the shaded woods along Coronet and Roberts Ranch Roads, which helps racers from overheating. “The mud run will be challenging,” said Nelson, “but people will not have to leave in ambulances. They will leave in their own cars.”

Many racers will be running for the custom engraved master trophy, but the MudZilla Mud Run will accommodate people ages 14 and older of all fitness abilities, and even “I did research for about a year on different teams. The race will be chip-timed, but

with no time limit being enforced, Nelson encourages people to run the race for leisure. And if you can’t complete an obstacle, an alternate challenge such as push-ups, situps, or up-downs will be administered. “It’s for everybody no matter age or gender,” said Nelson. “Most races are usually composed of 20- to 40-year olds, but a lot of teams have developed and registered which feature people from all walks of life.” Like the popular Strawberry Distance Challenge 5K, proceeds from the MudZilla Mud Run will be donated to The Youth Alliance (TYA), an organization comprised of professional presenters, some of which are former professional athletes, from around the world who work together to empower young people to initiate positive changes in their lives. Specifically, the MudZilla Mud Run funds will allow TYA “to start new works in underprivileged areas where money is scarce,” explained Nelson, The Youth Alliance COO.

Extremely active in Central Florida, members from TYA made presentations of hope and anti-bullying to students in over 100 schools in Pasco, Polk, Hillsborough, and Pinellas counties in 2012, and will continue their work in the area this year. Current TYA speakers include Reggie Dabbs—the number one public school speaker in America according to the National Educators Association—former Harlem Globetrotter Seth Franco, former WWE wrestler “Little Boogeyman” Chris Hollyfield, and Guinness Book of World Record holder Jon Pritikin. These TYA presenters—and many more—address issues such as bullying, suicide, and substance abuse and use their unique life experiences to demonstrate the importance of creating a positive vision for the future. The special early registration period has concluded, yet spots are still available. Register before April 15th for just $69. As mentioned above, the MudZilla Mud Run is also open for teams, as groups of four or more will receive a 15 percent discount off the registration price. For more information and to register for this memorable event, visit www. mudzillamudrun.com.

foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

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Fried Corn-on-the-Cob

Eating Contest A Festival First

Article by Johanna Santana

Contest winners Freddy Tippett and Martha Strong. Photo by Johanna Santana

messy but tasty battle ensued during a fried corn-on-the-cob eating contest Saturday, March 2nd at Florida’s Strawberry Festival in Plant City. Dozens of people cheered on contestants who competed for the title of the fastest corn eater.

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

years but never thought she would come to win a corn-eating contest. Although she said to have signed up for the fun of it, Strong added that it’s “always exciting to win.” One thing all of the competitors agreed on was their opinion of the corn. “It’s good!” was the common exclamation amongst them. The fried corn was provided by Rigatoni Restaurant and Lounge, and according to its owner Rick Barcena, it’s a five-inch piece of corn with a light batter and seasoning already in it. The event was held at the Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment tent.

Participants teamed up in pairs to feed the fried corn to their teammate, which added to the chaotic fun. The rules were simple: one contestant must have remained seated, only one corn could be fed at a time, and after the first contestants were done eating the corn, they had to switch and feed their partners. They were not allowed to know Prizes given away at the event included their teammate. anything from free sweet tea and corn, to In the end, the title and ribbons went to cash prizes. The afternoon began with live two first-time competitive eaters, Freddy music, a contest of who could name the different ways of making corn and a set Tippett and Martha Strong. of “corny” joke telling by Barcena. “What Tippett brought his family along and has ears but cannot hear?” Barcena asked, thought the contest was a fun event to captivating the audience. “A field of corn.” participate in with his son Noah, 11, the This is the 78th annual Strawberry Festival youngest competitor of the event. and the 17th year Rigatoni is a participant “Just taking advantage of an opportunity,” of the festivities. said Tippett of signing up to compete. Rigatoni Restaurant & Lounge is located Strong, who traveled from Canada, said she on 3437 W. Kennedy Blvd. Tampa, FL. had read about the Strawberry Festival for 33609.

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Sweetbay Supports Local Schools Contest

Plant City High School Places First…Again! Article by Sherrie Mueller

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lant City High School was presented with a check for $10,836.00 as the winner of the “Sweetbay Supports Local Schools” contest. Henry Falcon, Manager of the Sweetbay Supermarket in Plant City, presented a check to Mrs. Colleen Richardson, Principal of Plant City High School. Mrs. Cathy Erickson, Customer Service Manager at Sweetbay, arranged the presentation. PCHS seniors in Advanced Placement Literature took part in the celebration.

and accomplishments of students. It also gives the time, date and temperature. The messages on the marquee can be updated from a computer inside the school. Prior to this addition, the Student Council students or teachers would manually put up individual letters to display marquee messages. The new marquee’s first message was “Thank You Sweetbay.” In addition to the digital marquee, Sweetbay can be credited for helping Plant City High School add new signage on the gymnasium outside wall. The lighted sign reads, “Home of the Raiders” and includes a Raider flag with the PCHS logo. School spirit is at an all-time high as the school was just named an “A” school for the second consecutive year. Students strive to hold up the focus of PCHS, “Positive Commitment to the Highest Standards.”

The “Sweetbay Supports Local Schools” contest has been held for 10 years. Plant City High School has won first place in the state for the last two years and won the additional $10,000 each year. To participate in the contest, customers buy at least three designated products and earn two School Dollars for the school of their choice. Plant City High School earned more “School Dollars” than any other school in the state Plant City High School is proud and of Florida. appreciative of the support and partnership of many local businesses in the Plant City Thanks to Sweetbay Supermarket, Plant area. Academics, athletics, and the arts are City High School has added a digital all enhanced with sponsorships from the state of the art marquee in front of the community. Plant City High School strives school to enhance communication with to be a source of pride to the community parents, students, faculty and the Plant City and to its students. Thanks again to community. The sign can hold multiple Sweetbay and all the local businesses from rotating messages announcing events the students and faculty of PCHS.

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Traffick Jam Walk-a-thon

Comes to Florida Plant City Woman Joins Fight against Child Sex Trafficking W

hen Alli Mellon from the Hard Places Community organization spoke at North Lakeland’s Fuel Community Church about her experiences in Cambodia, Plant City resident and mother of three Debbie Miller was reduced to tears. During her visit, Mellon told countless heartbreaking stories of innocent boys and girls, some as young as 3 years old, being forced into having sex with grown men night after night. “When Alli left, I was crying, and ended up crying for a couple of days,” said Miller. “I didn’t even know anything about human trafficking beforehand, so I immediately wanted to know what I could do to help. I couldn’t just sit and listen to all those stories and not do anything, so I went online to the

Hard Places Community website, clicked on the “Get Involved” tab, and learned about the Traffick Jam Walk-a-thons. Traffick Jam events are held in various locations around the nation each year to raise funds for several Hard Place Community projects, including their prevention and restoration centers for children in Phnom Penh, a community at the heart of Cambodia’s child sex trafficking industry. At these safe havens, Punlok Thmey (“New Growth”) for boys and Prook Thmey (“New Morning”) for girls, Hard Place Community volunteers work to bring relief, restoration, and reconciliation to children who have been continual victims of child prostitution.

to the event from Fuel Community Church, Miller believes her goal will be met. The entire church has been hard at work promoting the fundraiser to local media outlets, churches, and universities.

“Ever since I presented the idea of the Traffick Jam to our lead pastor, Mike Article by Amanda Deck Harrell, the church has been behind it,” said “I put my trust in God, prayed and prayed Miller. “Everyone is pitching in and doing about what I was supposed to do, and finally what they can to help out the cause.” got in touch with Drew Mellon, Alli’s brother, who is in charge of the Traffick The First Presbyterian Church, located Jam events around the United States,” said along Lake Hollingsworth, has also been a Miller. “He told me a Traffick Jam had huge supporter of the Traffick Jam, allowing never been done in Florida. It was then I Fuel Community Church to rent out their knew this was something I had to do. “ facilities for the walk-a-thon. Here, bounce houses will be on hand for children, free Florida’s first Traffick Jam 10-mile Walk-a- popcorn and cotton candy will be offered, thon fundraiser, coordinated by Miller with and hot dogs, hamburgers, and T-shirts help from the Fuel Community Church will be sold. In addition, participants have congregation, will be held on April 20 from the opportunity to win donated items 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Lake Hollingsworth. from various businesses and restaurants in Participants are encouraged to raise $10 the area during a raffle starting at 2 p.m., from 10 different people, one dollar per each mile walked. Miller’s goal is have 500 to continued next page 1,000 walkers attend the Traffick Jam, and with about 350 people already committed

If you are in 6th - 12th grade we invite you to join us as we hang out and discover God’s plan for our lives and as we worship, build community and fellowship with other students.

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Shiloh Baptist Church 1104 W Cason St. Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 752-8345

local followed by a Fuel worship band concert. Miller hopes this event will not only become a Lakeland tradition, but will inspire other organizations across Central Florida to host Traffick Jam events. “I want to continue to do this every year, not just this one time,” said Miller. “I know sex trafficking is an issue here in the United States, but these are children as young as 3 to 5 years old who are taken from their home every night. This is what God has called me to do. It breaks my heart, and I just can’t sit back and let this happen. That’s not how any child should have to live.” Register for Traffick Jam by visiting fuelcommunitychurch.com. Registration is $10 and T-shirts can be pre-ordered for $15. Join the fight against the child sex trafficking industry and help the Hard Places Community shed light to children in a dark, broken community.

The Kids Clubs provided at the Hard Places Community prevention and restoration centers allow boys and girls affected by the sex trafficking industry in Cambodia a chance at relief, restoration, and reconciliation. Photo courtesy of Traffick Jam Facebook Page

foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

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Nicole Hoban from Gaither FFA showed her Confederate Jasmine plants. Photo by Deana Garrison

any youth from 4-H clubs and FFA chapters participated in the 39th Youth Ornamental Plant Show and Sale at the Strawberry Festival Sunday, March 3. A lot of hard work and dedication goes into growing the plants to perfection. It truly takes a person with patience and the love for plants to get the finished product they want. Not only do the participants learn about plants and how to care for and grow them, but they also learn the importance of record keeping, maintaining a record book of their project throughout the year. The nice check at the end of the project always puts a smile on their faces as well.

Aside from the auction to sale each plant, a silent auction also took place, a new feature to the festival to help the youth. This gives buyers another chance to buy plants without creating an auction marathon. The awards were as follows: Grand Champion, Chloe Wineinger; Reserve Grand Champion, Taylor Harrell; Champion Woody Ornamentals, Aubrey Lingo; Champion of Foliage Plants, Makayla Gephart; Champion of Hanging Planters, Reagan Brown; Champion of the Miscellaneous, Jonathan Wagner; Champion of Liners, Lily Batley.

Awards of Distinction went to the following: Jonathan Wagner, Lily Bately, Keegan Lee, Reagan Brown, and Chloe Wineinger. Each of these winners received a monetary award. This amount is added to the total of what they will receive after the Ornamental Horticulture is one of the sale of their products. largest segments of Hillsborough County Agriculture and ranks fourth in annual sales Once again, the Youth Plant Sale at by nurseries in the state of Florida. Students the Florida Strawberry Festival was a who participate in this event are preparing huge success due to the local buyer’s themselves to be a part of a large-growing participation. It was great to see so many young people participating. Thanks to many economic production. local businesses, these young participants were able to profit from the event. Walking through the plant exhibits, it was clear that the judges had a difficult time deciding on the winners. Many beautiful plants were on display to be judged.

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

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local

Let the Games Begin! Blessin’s Homer is the Highlight of Opening Day Article by Joe Bowles

Ashley Blessin proudly displays her home run ball. Photo by Sandra Blessin

shley Blessin did something at Plant City Little League’s Opening Day that, as far as we know, has never been done before. She hit an overthe-fence home run. No other girl in Plant City’s majors division (11-12 yrs.) has ever cleared the fence with a softball in an official game until now. Blessin’s feat was the highlight of Opening Day as more than 550 boys and girls, their families, and friends descended on Mike Sansone Park for a day of fun, food, and games as the 59th season for Plant City Little League kicked off. Opening day signals the beginning of four months of practices, concession stand food, and baseball… America’s pastime.

Local pop group NRG started things off by singing the national anthem followed by time-shorted games at all nine fields. Special guests included the newly crowned Florida Strawberry Festival Queen Kelsey Fry and her court as they threw out the first march 2013 focusplantcity.com

pitches. TSS Photography was on hand to take team photos of the fifty-one teams and a raffle was held that included a 43” HD television that was won by Katelyn Yarbrough, as well as numerous other prizes. Collector’s Dream of Lakeland also held a silent auction of sports memorabilia with all proceeds from the raffle and the auction donated back to the league. All in attendance were treated to free hot dogs and beverages. John Moore, who oversees a board of sixteen members and hundreds of volunteers, was once again elected as league president for the third consecutive year. According to board member T. J. Messick, “Everything went smoothly… without any problems. There was plenty of food to go around. Everybody had a great time and we were blessed to have so many who volunteered their time to make this year’s opening day a success.”

local

Strawberry Shortcake

Eating Contest

An Exciting Festival Tradition

housands of people from across the nation will admit they flock to the Florida Strawberry Festival each year for one reason and one reason only—the strawberry shortcake. And if they visit the festival solely for this delectable treat, then they probably created their own masterpiece at St. Clement Catholic Church’s popular “Make Your Own” Strawberry Shortcake booth, which celebrated its 40th year of operation this season. In fact, the St. Clement booth sold over 92,000 shortcakes in 2012, making it the go-to stop for the Plant City staple.

Article by Amanda Deck any means necessary. Many used their hands, while a few stuck their heads directly into the remaining contents. Finally, the buzzer sounded and Chef Tony weighed the plates. It appeared Apopka resident Ken Smith was the clear winner, leaving just one pound, five ounces behind—a few pieces of uneaten cake. However, John Rozon’s plate, which consisted of a large heap of whipped cream, weighed less than Smith’s, measuring in at one pound, one ounce! As a result, Rozon, an Ontario, Canada native and first-time festival-goer, received the grand prize—two free tickets to the St. Clement “Make Your Own” Strawberry Shortcake station, a pigtopped trophy, and “a full belly of the best tasting shortcake in the world,” declared St. Clement’s “Make Your Own” project cocoordinator Paul Hetrick.

Also for the past 40 years, St. Clement has sponsored the annual Strawberry Shortcake Eating Contest. However, only 10 lucky contestants, selected by random drawing, get the opportunity to delve into their own monstrous, 4-pound mountain of Americana, constructed on center stage by Chef Tony DeFrancesco right before the Hetrick teamed with Kevin McFaul to competition in front of an international organize this year’s Strawberry Shortcake crowd. Eating Contest, the first time the event was not headed by long-time St. Clement The 2013 Strawberry Shortcake Eating Catholic Church volunteer Barbara Contest took place on Thursday, March 7 Caccamisi, who passed on August 18, 2012. in the Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment A memorial was placed in the “Make Your Tent. Each participant had just 10 minutes Own” booth in her honor, stating, “Truly to consume as much shortcake as possible, a masterpiece of God…truly missed by us with each dessert featuring two enormous all.” cakes separated by multiple spoonfuls of succulent, sliced strawberries swimming in “We will try to fill her shoes,” stated their sweet juice. Shortcakes were topped Hetrick. “We miss her and we’ll carry on with a massive pile of whipped cream and a this tradition for her for years to come.” single fresh berry. During the first seven minutes of competition, contestants could use only a small, plastic spoon to transfer shortcake to their mouths. Yet when Chef Tony announced that just three minutes remained, spoons were set aside as contestants could begin eating shortcake using

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Log on today for deals in your town Chef Tony DeFrancesco presents John Rozon, the 2013 Strawberry Shortcake Eating Contest Champion, with two tickets for free shortcake at the St. Clement Catholic Church “Make Your Own” Shortcake booth. Photo by Amanda Deck foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

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Julian Silva is a regular National Anthem singer at USF Bulls athletic contests.. Photo submitted by Julian Silva

Julian Silva

Takes the Stage Plant City 10-year-old Starring in Broadway Show

fter winning the title of overall child singer at the AMTC’s Winter Shine 2013 event, 10-year-old Julian Silva is taking the next big step in his performance career. In 2012, Julian was asked to participate in an audition for Broadway’s Les Miserables, then earlier this year he received the good news; they wanted him to play a primary role in the production, that of a street urchin named Gavroche.

Article by Katie Reilly had previously played in a Riverview High School production. He has also starred in Aladdin (Aladdin), Mulan (Mushu), Alice in Wonderland (White Rabbit), and Seusical ( JoJo).

Julian’s interest in music and singing started when he was about three, said Daniel. And by the time he turned five, he had already started to sing opera, imitating an operatic pop group named Il Divo. It was about that time that his parents decided to have Dan Silva, Julian’s father, said, “It didn’t hit him take singing lessons. After that, Julian us at first, but once it did we were all super started to perform in local musicals, sang the anthem for a number of USF soccer, excited.” baseball, and basketball games, and even And Julian gets a double dose, since not opened for Kurtis Blow Walker’s concert in Julian Silva meets Tampa Mayor, Bob Buckhorn. Photo submitted by Julian Silva only does this fulfill his dream of being in Titusville when he was seven. with Gaten Matarazzo, as their schedule Before they left Julian said, “I’m a little a Broadway show, but he also gets to play will be very rigorous, traveling to a new nervous [about the tour], but I’m also very his favorite character, Gavroche, which he Julian will be sharing the role of Gavroche location on the first day of every week, and excited.” then performing there for the other six days before repeating the process. The tour will However, a little nervousness never stopped last approximately eight months and travel him in the past, and it sure hasn’t stopped over the United States and Canada. him this time—with one stop done and another in progress. Maria Silva, Julian’s mom, will be traveling with him on the tour. Maria recently retired Even though the tour has just begun, Julian from United Airlines—based in New York’s has already received offers to play other JFK International airport—where she had roles after the Les Miserables tour finishes. been for almost 20 years. However, Dan and Maria have already promised that he can take a break when “I guess that was just training for me to he comes back to play some sports and prepare me for what I am about to do with recover from the long and demanding tour. Julian over the next eight months,” Maria And after that? If one judges from Julian’s said. passion as well as his success so far, there is no doubt that we will be seeing more of Maria and Julian left February 19 to join Julian and his amazing performances for the rest of the cast and crew before the years to come. opening show in Sarasota on March 5. Despite not being able to travel with them, If you would like to keep up to date on all Dan will visit some of the stops along the that Julian is doing, check out his new blog Julian Silva is currently traveling all over the country playing Gavroche in the way, dropping by on weekends. masterjulian.blogspot.com. You can also Broadway show Les Miserables. Photo submitted by Julian Silva find him on Facebook.

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

did you know

WILLIAM SCHNEIDER A Legacy Remembered (1864 – 1940) Article by Plant City Photo Archives & History Center

Part 2 of 2 - In this issue we are resuming our journey through William Schneider’s legacy. Last month we began the trip that would take us to Warnell Lumber and Veneer Company, the Bank of Plant City, the City Council, the First Presbyterian Church, and the Plant City School Board to name just a few. We ended last month’s portion of the trip with mention of Schneider’s membership in various fraternal organizations. Let’s complete his journey. Over the course of some 20 years, Schneider remained an officer of Warnell Lumber and Veneer Company until 1920, when the cost of hauling the timber used to produce the crates and baskets had become prohibitive. The company was sold to the Exchange Supply Company, a subsidiary of the Florida Citrus Exchange (now Seald Sweet Growers). Included in the sale, which involved property valued at $1 million or more, were the veneer and crate mill in Plant City; various mill buildings, warehouses, lands, lots in the vicinity, and other buildings; the sawmill at Fort Green; and the privately owned Warnell logging road with four locomotives, full equipment, approximately 40 mules, wagons, and miscellaneous equipment.

at that location was built in 1892 after the congregation had been meeting for years at the original Methodist Church built in 1885 on West Haines Street, years later the location of Bill Sharpton Chevrolet. Schneider’s educational influence on young people was not limited to those he reached at church. His years of leadership as both a member of the Plant City School Board and then as a member and chairman of the Hillsborough County Board brought great advancements to local education. Plant City High School dedicated the 1916 yearbook to Schneider in honor of his contributions. Years later in 1954 the Plant City High School stadium was named “William Schneider Stadium” as an additional tribute to Schneider and his passionate support of school athletics.

In 1926 at the age of 62, Schneider acted on his political aspirations and ran in the Democratic primary for one of three seats available in the Florida House of Representatives. Schneider ran as an “antiKu-Klux-Klan candidate.” At that time, the Klan was extending its reach to areas of Hillsborough County via local politics, which was a legal, non-violent way for the Klan to gain a stronghold. Backing candidates associated with the Klan was a way for the Klan to gain control of the Democratic Party and therefore victory in the general election because there was almost a complete absence of Republican voters.

The candidates associated with the Klan promoted a platform of virtue and stricter law enforcement. The anti-Klan candidates focused on the Klan itself and its disruption of the county’s Democratic Party. Schneider lost that year along with a majority of anti-Klan candidates running for the House, Senate, and Hillsborough County’s Democratic Executive Committee. Voters turned out in favor of the Klan candidates, A consummate multi-tasker, Schneider who had addressed issues important to the continued to accumulate feathers in citizens and were seen as viable alternatives his presidential cap when he served as to the political elite. president of the Plant City Community Hotel Corporation that built the Hotel In 1928, Schneider went on to serve as Plant, which opened on November 11, Kiwanis club president. It is also quite likely 1926, and as president of the United States that Schneider was Plant City’s mayor at Export Chemical Corporation. some point as his brother, Albert, was, but records are incomplete.

Schneider’s son-in-law, Land, died on March 4, 1935, at the age of 57. Schneider, 70 or 71 and a widower, decided to close out his business interests in Plant City and move to Apopka to live with his daughter. Schneider’s wife, Lydia, died sometime between 1921 and 1929 according to census records but further details are not known. While in Apopka, Schneider was active in Consumers Lumber and Veneer Company, of which his grandson, H. W. Land, was president and general manager and in which his son-in-law had purchased an interest back in 1920. Schneider died in September 1940 in Apopka at the age of 76. The final stop of his journey brought him back to Plant City and West Oaklawn Cemetery. Schneider’s daughter, Josephine, died in Apopka, Florida, on October 28, 1980, at the age of 90. Let us end our remembrance of Schneider’s journey with a quote from Schneider himself. On January 3, 1913, The Courier ran a story listing New Year’s wishes for Plant City and its citizens. Schneider’s wish as he was approaching 49 years of age was “that our citizens may bury selfishness and all pull together for the common good.” A timeless sentiment, indeed.

In a turn of events, Warnell Crate Company was formed in 1924 with Schneider as president to take over Warnell Lumber and Veneer Company, which it did on November 1. Meanwhile, Schneider and his entire family were active in the First Presbyterian Church, where Schneider served as deacon, elder, and Sunday school superintendent. He also taught a young men’s Bible class and it has been documented that he helped a number of them go to college. We do not know if this was monetary help, valuable encouragement, or a combination thereof. Schneider and his brother, Albert, also served on the building committee for the present sanctuary located on the northwest corner of Reynolds and Thomas streets, which the congregation occupied on February 15, 1925. The original sanctuary

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

Warnell Lumber Company early 1900’s. Photo submitted by Plant City Photo Archives & History Center

foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

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The Strawberry Classic Car Show will be held on Saturday, March 16 from 4to 8 p.m. in Historic Downtown Plant City. The car show features cars that are at least 25 years old, with many classics on hand from the 40s, 50s and 60s. This is a great family event if you’re looking for a relaxing evening. Several of the downtown merchants are open longer hours to accommodate the crowds. You’ll probably run into many of your friends and neighbors. There are several food vendors, and the atmosphere is great. The new Chamber members this month include: • The Herd Museum of Fine Art and Collectables, who held their ribbon cutting at 9 a.m. on March 14 at 113 South Palmer St.

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the caterer to properly plan for the event. If you want to attend, and are unable to RSVP by Friday, you can call the Chamber and be placed on a waiting list, but there’s no guarantee you’ll be able to participate. If you have any questions, please feel free to call the Chamber at 813-754-3707. The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce will be holding their monthly Business After Hours on Thursday, March 21 from 5:15 – 7 p.m. The event will be sponsored by Best Western Plus and held at 2003 South Frontage 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 you’ve never attended a Business After Hours event, come out to the Best Western Plus and spend some time with everyone.

• Pak Mail, who will hold their ribbon cutting at 11 a.m. on March 19 at 2505 Thonotosassa Rd. The Pregnancy Care Center will hold their Walk For Life event on April 6. For more • Florida Home Partnership, who will hold information contact Darlene Davis at 813their ribbon cutting at 11 a.m. on March 26 759-0886. at 273 Alexander Woods Dr. The Bike Show will be held on Saturday, • Walden Lake Art & Frame, who will hold April 6 in Historic Downtown Plant City their ribbon cutting at 11 a.m. on March 27 from 5 to 9 p.m. The show features hundreds at 1514 Alexander St., Suite 104 of bikes from all over, with everyone riding in for a relaxing afternoon in downtown. • Florida Traditions Bank, who will hold For the enthusiast, there are bikes of all their ribbon cutting on at 11 a.m. on April styles, makes, models, and both new and 2 at 1907 James L. Redman Parkway old. The show is always a little different, but there are often antique bikes where owners Come join everyone to learn a little have spent countless hours restoring them about each business, wish them luck and to their former glory. And like the Car participate in the ribbon cutting. Show, many of the downtown merchants are open longer hours to accommodate the Each month, the Chamber holds a Contact crowds. Breakfast. Recently, the Chamber has had to implement a change for taking RSVPs The Down Town Merchants will hold their for the breakfast. Beginning this month, if Spring in the Park event at the Depot and you plan to attend the breakfast, you must McCall Park on April 13 from 9 a.m. to 3 RSVP to the Chamber no later than the p.m. For more information contact Benny Friday before the breakfast. This will allow Lubrano at 813-545-1207.

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Best Western Plus 2003 South Frontage Road Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 707-6000 Kemelya Scott, General Manager foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

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Thanks to a great crowd of friends and supporters, the Focus Magazine 11th Anniversary Party was a huge success. Held at the increasingly popular Keel & Curley Winery venue, guests had plenty of space to enjoy a buffet dinner served up by Carrabba’s Italian Grill, along with entertainment provided by singer/songwriter Michael McArthur and by the rising stars of the Clemons Road band. Once again, WQYK radio personality Dave McKay emceed and kept the party rolling. He also treated guests to his musical talent when Clemons Road invited McKay onstage to play guitar with the group. To benefit the annual Relay for Life effort, the Floyds encouraged guests this year to donate $10 toward the cause. In exchange, each also received a coupon for a free Bloomin’ Onion appetizer on their next trip to Outback Steakhouse. Additionally, everyone had opportunity to bid during the live auction on the “Strawberry” artwork created onstage by Chad Ruis. The announcement of the Readers’ Choice Awards winners is always a highlight of the evening. Loyal readers voted online for one of three nominees among Plant City dining establishments in 21 different categories. Please take time this month to visit, congratulate, and dine with our 2012 RCA Winners!

foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

Best Asian

813 Chinese

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Best BBQ

Johnson BBQ

1305 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. 813-759-0009 johnsonbarbeque.com

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Fred’s Southern Kitchen 1401 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. 813-752-7763 fredsmarket.com

Best Chicken Wings

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Fred’s Southern Kitchen 1401 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. 813-752-7763 fredsmarket.com

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Carrabba’s Italian Grill 1205 Townsgate Ct. 813-752-0760 carrabbas.com

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Outback Steakhouse 315 N. Alexander St. 813-752-9200 outback.com

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3011 James L Redman Pkwy 813-752-5800 oldetownpizzeria.com

Linda’s Crab Shack 200 E. Reynolds St. 813-754-0492

Hillary Nelson of Beef O’Brady’s 2418 James L Redman Pkwy 813-757-0300 beefobradys.com

FOCUS Staff Picks My favorite thing to eat in Plant City is the Ribs from Johnsons BBQ. They are perfect in every way, just good stuff.

Jennifer Chamberlain

There are so many good choices in Plant City. If I HAVE to to pick one of my favorites, it would be the ‘Jerk Wings’ from O’briens Irish Pub and Restaurant. They pack the perfect combination of sweet and spicy that is always sure to hit the spot!

Jared Guyer

This was not the easiest choice for me, as Plant City has so much to offer when it comes to food’s that make my favorite list. The one that really is set apart from the rest for me would have to be Johnson Barbeque’s ‘Brownbag Lunch Special’. The combination of the pulled pork sandwich and steak fries with their sweet barbeque sauce and a Sweet tea makes for a temptation you won’t be able to resist.

Amanda Deck

I’m new to the area, so my two Plant City friends Lisa Herrin and Cheryl Johnston took me to one of their favorite places--Whistle Stop Cafe. Before we even sat down, Lisa ordered us cookies, saying “You gotta get one before they’re gone.” Thank God we did because they were gone within minutes, and it ended up being the best cookie I’ve ever had--a warm chocolate chip cookie filled with some sort of chocolate frosting.

Joseph Roberts

My favorite food in Plant City would have to be the Cuban sandwiches from The Strawberry Hut. Their Cuban sandwiches just seem to turn out perfect every single time! There are lots of places in this world that claim to have perfected the Cuban, believe me when I say that The Strawberry Hut has it down pat!

Best Pizza Esposito’s

2803 James L Redman Pkwy 813-704-5971 espospizza.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

Parkesdale Farms

strawberry hut

N Lindaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crab Shack

813 chinese

March 2013 focusplantcity.com

As the only woman among 15 men on the 16-member Board of Directors for the Florida Strawberry Festival® and the first to serve as an officer, Sandee Sytsma is very comfortable. Since 1995 when she was elected to be an Associate Director, she has “always been on lots of committees,” including a nine-year term as Tram Committee Captain, with oversight responsibility for 35 volunteers. She also coordinated the annual event’s Fashion Show for nine years and served with Pec McGinnis, Sherrie Mueller, and Carolyn McMullen to organize the annual Strawberry Ball. Before moving last year into her newest role as the association’s Treasurer, she served as Coordinator for the Queen and her Court. These days some of the directors’ wives and former queens also help to chaperone the young women for their many appearances. But “Ms. Sandee,” as the girls call her, will always be a mentor.

foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

The 2013 Queen, Kelsey Fry, explained why: “I could talk about Ms. Sandee all day long! She has such a youthful spirit, she always makes us girls smile with her witty comments and jokes, and she knows how to command an audience. We all look up to her, and we really do act like she is our second mother. She is so caring towards the Strawberry Festival and she works non-stop to make sure everything is perfect!” Enjoy this month’s visit with “Ms. Sandee” and learn of her love for our homegrown Festival. Focus: Tell us a little bit about your background and family, Sandee. Sytsma: I moved here with my family from Pennsylvania in 1957 when I was in fourth grade. I’m the second of five children born to Roy and Helen Parke, and I worked in our family’s Parkesdale Farms business until I graduated in 1965 from Turkey Creek High School. I attended business school for two years with a goal to become an airline stewardess. That plan changed when Hank phoned with a marriage proposal after 18 months of dating. In June, we will celebrate our 44th anniversary. Focus: So how did you become so involved with the Florida Strawberry Festival? Sytsma: I can’t remember not being involved with the Festival. I worked in our family’s booth when it was only a three-day event. In 1960, attendance was approximately 15,000 in three days. Now, more than 600,000 visit us during the 11-day run. My father saw the potential way back then and helped to organize a structure that would allow the Festival to grow well. I’ve always loved this event. Focus: It’s pretty obvious you love coordinating the Queen and her Court, too. When did that begin and what’s involved now? Sytsma: I accepted the position 12 years ago when Robert Trinkle was the association’s president. The only guideline for the Queen and her court members was “Be good and represent us well,” which was too vague and open to misinterpretation. When I realized no one was teaching them the basics of ladylike behavior, etiquette and the social norms for public relations work, I knew it was time to establish some rules and boundaries for everyone’s best interest. I also suggested that swimsuits no longer be a part of the pageant and asked for a clothing budget for ten outfits for the five court members, since it is very important they dress tastefully and in matching outfits. Focus: So what are some of the “rules?” Sytsma: To enter the scholarship pageant competition presented as a Lions Club fundraiser, a young lady must be between the ages of 16 to 20, live within the geographical boundaries, and have a 3.0 weighted GPA minimum. She must also not have any negative or inappropriate behavior in person or online. We explain the rules at the early November orientation, to which the girls must bring one parent, because we want everyone to understand the important role image plays when one is selected to represent an industry.

I’m as open as I know how to be because they deserve to know what to expect. And it’s important that those who watch us know that there is still that kind of girl out there—one with class and taste, deserving of respect. Focus: Is it true that you don’t attend the competition itself? Sytsma: Yes, I stay home that night and find out who the new Queen and court members are after everyone else does because I can’t bear to watch the disappointment some feel. It matters not to me who wins but simply that the judges did their job of selecting those they feel would best represent us. The night before the pageant I encourage the contestants with a pep talk. I explain that ultimately only one will be ecstatic, four will be happy and the remainder will feel like they “lost,” like they should have done something different or worn something else. I want them to know life goes on after this competition and that theirs can be successful regardless. Focus: How do you respond to negative comments that the selection favors those whose family name carries weight or influence in the town? Sytsma: Thank you for asking this question, because I would like to put it to rest once and for all. First, the judges are from out of town and sometimes even out of state. I explain to them that the winners are expected to be confident, well-spoken, pretty, personable, and have a basic knowledge of our city, the Festival and the strawberry industry. We want the “whole package” and sincere young representatives. Second, the judges know nothing of contestants’ backgrounds other than a brief bio detailing GPA and community service information. They have no idea who is who or whose family has position, money or influence. Third, the judges score each girl in the categories of personal interview, evening gown and public speaking, with the interview carrying the most weight. Obviously confidence is very important. I assure the families that if money or influence had mattered, then I might have fared better way back when 120 girls competed and there was no interview. Focus: We have heard that many girls stay in touch with you. Sytsma: Yes, that’s true. We become close because we spend so much time together. I guess I’m like a second mother to them for the year of their reign. When I consider that

over the 12 years, I’ve coordinated 60 girls, I think it’s wonderful that almost not a day goes by that I don’t receive a text or phone call from at least one of them. They call me with good news and bad, and they love Hank, too. I think it’s important as well that they see our sound marriage. I’m very happy to know these young women. Focus: Tell us something you love about the Festival. Sytsma: I am so proud of our 2,200 volunteers who serve on 68 different committees that make the event an annual success. Our volunteers take ownership of their responsibilities and they represent Plant City so well. Many even take vacation time from work to serve during the 11 days here. Each year, we host 20-30 Chamber of Commerce presidents from surrounding areas for lunch and shortcake and they cannot believe how responsive folks in this community are to serve visitors. Focus: What should people do to get involved in the 2014 Festival? Sytsma: We have something for every gender and every age. They would simply call or come by our office on Lemon Street to apply. For their service, each receives a small token of our appreciation and free admission via their worker pass. Focus: Explain what you love most about Plant City. Sytsma: It’s the feeling of “belonging,” of people caring. Plant City feels safe and warm and people will share their emotions with you. When friends visit, we like to take them to our favorite places to meet our favorite people. We have something very special in this town and I hope folks appreciate it as much as Hank and I do. Focus: OK, one last question: How do you two spend your spare time? Sytsma: I enjoy doing interior decorating for friends and container gardening, especially of red and yellow blooming flowers. Hank likes to build and repair. We both serve at our church (Evangelical Presbyterian). I’m a deacon and Hank is an administrator on staff and former elder. We love people, our home and this wonderful community. Focus: Ms. Sandee, in closing, we thought our readers might enjoy this salute to you offered by one of the former queens, Katie Sharer Butson. “Ms. Sandee views this program as more than just part of tradition or attending events on behalf of the festival. She knows the impact the queen and court can make in our community and that drives decisions she makes regarding the program. She also knows the personal impact she can have on the five young women each year, a role she does not take lightly. Ms. Sandee has had a positive influence on just about every area of my life - from my faith, to my family, even in my career. Not only is she an encourager and fan of her girls, but she also wants to see each grow into young women who love the Lord and serve Him with their lives. That is what a true mentor is and that is exactly what Ms. Sandee is to me and countless young women in this community.” foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

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March 2013 focusplantcity.com

business & finance

Plant City Business Profile:

that we lose our grasp on our principles,” said Davis. “We don’t want to lose touch with why people continually refer and use Plant City Mortgage. Beating the competition’s rate and being cost-wise is only one part of our model; being personal, customerArticle by Amanda Deck driven, and easily reached is another. When we’re able to pass those cost-savings onto you call Plant City Mortgage, there’s no the customer by way of a lower rate than long holds, no switching departments. You those same entities would offer the client talk to us directly. I have heard the saying, through their retail channels.” ‘Service, quality, price; pick two.’ With us, you can have all three.” Even though Davis focuses mainly on providing home financing plans for his If you are interested in financing customers, he’s also an active real estate or refinancing a home with trusted investor, having bought and sold more than professionals who will immediately accept 50 properties. Therefore, Davis can assist you as part of their family, contact Plant clients with every aspect of a real estate City Mortgage Corporation. Also, be sure transaction. Furthermore, the U.S. Marines to tune in to FOX News Radio 970 AM veteran, husband, father of two, and self- WFLA on the second Sunday of each proclaimed “numbers nerd” holds a 220 month at 10 a.m., when Nate Davis talks on insurance license and gained a multitude of the weekly real estate talk show and takes skills as a part of a GEICO management live real estate and mortgage call-ins, and team. check out his monthly FOCUS Magazine column in the real estate section. In addition to working with an experienced staff, the personal feel each customer receives at Plant City Mortgage is unrivaled. Davis’ number one goal is to make a client’s loan process so positive that the client would feel like they have a lifelong mortgage agent on Plant City Mortgage Corporation their side, and one who can make the dream 1507 S. Alexander St. Suite 101 of homeownership come true. His business Plant City, FL 33563 Phone: 813-707-6200 will continue that mission into the future.

Plant City Mortgage Corporation

irtually every parenting manual suggests that it’s extremely important for mothers and fathers to demonstrate the value of hard work to their children. Even the Bible offers advice on how to raise kids, stating in Proverbs 22:6, “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.”

impressions on me through the years that are priceless—keep God first, work hard, be fair, and always treat others the way you would want to be treated.” Financing a new home can be an intimidating process; however, Davis and his team of skilled loan officers, processors, and support staff strive to make the home-buying experience as seamless as possible. Plant City Mortgage currently offers purchase mortgage and refinance loans, including HARP 2.0, VA, USDA, conventional, and FHA, which is also referred to as a first-time homebuyer loan. Yet the service that makes Plant City Mortgage stand out is its ability to offer loans to the public through wholesalelending channels. In other words, the company guarantees to meet or beat any competitor’s written rate and cost estimate, helping customers save tens of thousands of dollars.

As a child, Plant City native Nate Davis learned the value of hard work through his family. Although he enjoyed the typical boyhood activities like Little League baseball and backyard football, Davis spent many early mornings and afternoons after school working on the hobby farm, raising calves, feeding cows, fixing fences, mowing lawns, etc. Davis believes realizing the importance of hard work at such a young age is the key factor to his success as a businessman and the main reason his business, Plant City Mortgage Corporation, continues to thrive. In fact, Davis’ homegrown company outproduces most of the national competitors’ offices located in Hillsborough County. “Our lenders utilize a wholesale rate distribution model,” explained Davis, “I would say that more than any college “which means they only pay us a fee if we degree, any special license, or any prior make a loan to the consumer. Therefore, work experience, at the end of the day [my all of their costs—their buildings, their “My vision for the future is controlled success] comes down to how I was raised,” employees—those things all go away, so growth, which is very different from just said Davis. “My family left some strong their overhead is substantially less, and ‘growth.’ We don’t want to get so big so fast

Brandi Kennedy works at her desk at the Plant City Mortgage Corporation office, located at 1507 S. Alexander St., Suite 101 in Plant City. She greets everyone with a smile. Photo submitted by Plant City Mortgage

information Web: plantcityloans.com Youtube Channel: youtube.com/plantcitymortgage

Plant City Mortgage president Nate Davis gives a free consultation to a client on the pros and cons of each of her home-purchasing options. Photo submitted by Plant City Mortgage foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

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march 2013 focusplantcity.com

he economy added 236,000 jobs in February, which was well above the expected increase of 165,000, according to Bloomberg. The unemployment rate dropped more than expected, falling to 7.7%, its lowest rate since December 2008. The details of the February jobs report were also favorable. Hours worked and hourly wages both rose slightly. Fueled by this solid report, stocks continued higher, as the Dow closed at a record high for the fourth day in a row.

Why Are Stocks Rising?

Short term, emotions sway the stock market, and currently, many investors are feeling upbeat. But more importantly, the fundamentals that drive long-term stock prices have also improved. - Stock prices are higher in response to that good news as well as less policy uncertainty. - We believe the economy seems to be shifting into higher gear. - Corporate profits have been strong, up 7.2% over the past year. - Despite the concerns about the possible impacts of the payroll tax increase, rising gasoline prices and looming government spending cuts, consumers have continued to spend. - The sequester spending cuts show Congress may be ending its series of self-imposed deficit deadlines, at least temporarily, reducing the level of economic policy uncertainty. - We think stocks are still reasonably priced.

What Happens Next?

Historically, stocks have continued to rise, with some setbacks, after climbing to new record highs. Since 1954, the S&P 500 has continued to rise for an average of 21 months, and the average gain was 40%. We believe it’s like spring weather: Even though it generally gets better, much of the country still gets snow. And from one day to the next, it can be hard to guess whether it’ll be sunny, snowy, rainy or a mix. And in the longer term, we know the seasons will always change. So for stocks, the fundamentals of earnings and the economy are positive, but investors know there are always pullbacks. If you’re prepared, you can use them to your advantage to add investments when market declines occur. A disciplined approach can help you make the right decisions at both market highs and lows.

“Spring Clean” Your Portfolio?

Many people “spring clean” their houses as warmer weather begins. With the stock market at record highs, it’s a good time to completely review your investments if you haven’t done so recently. To spruce up your portfolio, make sure it’s well-diversified, with the appropriate mix of stocks and bonds based on your risk tolerance and financial goals. The moves in the market may mean you need to make some changes. Just as spring cleaning prepares your house for the next season, reviewing and rebalancing your portfolio, if needed, can help prepare your investments for the next season in the market, whatever that may be.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

real estate » Jo-An Lusk

Is it Time to Sell? Column by Jo-An Lusk

s we near the end of the first quarter, you might be wondering if the market is getting better for sellers. The answer is yes, and here’s why:

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march 2013 focusplantcity.com

competitively priced in the market. The Seller might think their home is worth X amount, but an appraisal may not agree. Unfortunately, the appraised values haven’t quite caught up with the rest of the market. Strict borrowing guidelines are still in place, and property values haven’t seen a sizeable increase either (about 3%). It comes down to a strong analysis of comparable properties and what I call the “strike” price. The “strike” price is the list price at which an offer/contract on a comparable home is written. It may or may not be the actual sale price, but it creates a perception of value for a buyer (enough to want to see the home) and is a good rule of thumb and should be considered when pricing a property. Remember, no showings equals no offers equals no sale.

In the Plant City market, the number of new listings is down slightly compared to this same period last year (4.1%). The big decline is the amount of Active Inventory (homes that are not sold or under contract). This is about 20% less than this time last year, and 18% less than this quarter last year, and even 3% less than last month. What’s increasing is the number of homes sold – 48% increase from January to February, 7% over this time one year ago. The number of homes under contract is also on the rise: 24% up from January and an astounding 44% over this time last year. Average Sold Price is up by 10% over last year and the number of days on market is also at its Bottom line? If you have been waiting to sell your home, it just might be a good lowest (53) in the last 12 months. time. If you are motivated and willing These are all great numbers for sellers, to price competitively, know that if the especially those considering entering the home is priced right, it will sell…especially market. Many Real Estate Agents are today! For more information or if you have desperately looking for homes for buyers questions about selling your home, please who are ready, willing and able to buy. call me, 813-754-3586. The challenge, still, is getting the house

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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• A Center supported by over 45 specialties • Direct access to cardiac surgeons at our full-service Heart & Vascular Center ranked highest in quality for cardiac surgery by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons • Access to the latest stroke treatment options at our accredited Primary Stroke Center • Level II and Level III NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit).

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foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

Plant City’s

best kePt

real estate » walden lake review

walden lake review Column by Natalie Sweet

seCret new Home Community at Park PlaCe

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 March 18th at 6. The meetings are open to all Walden Lake residents, except this meeting in March will be a closed meeting due to a discussion of legal matters.

• 71 Home Sites on large, oversized lots • Private, gated community located 3 minutes from I-4 • Natural gas, Double-paned thermal windows, and icynene foam insulation. • Custom gourmet brick kitchens • 2, 3, and 4 car garages • No lot premiums and No CDDs fees • Prices start in the $190s • Energy Star Certified

Got JUNK? Looking for a TREASURE? It’s time to clean out your garage, closets, drawers and get rid of all the things you are tired of. The Walden Lake community garage sale will be April 6th from 8 AM to 2 PM. If you are planning to have a sale that day, the City of Plant City requires you to have a permit. You can get a permit on line at www.plantcitygov.com or at the City Hall located at 302 W Reynolds St. You are allowed 2 sales per year per household. For residents of Walden Lake please visit the community website for more garage sale information at www.waldenlake. org or e-mail betteg@waldenlake.org. to participate.

although two of the current Board Members are up for reelection, Robert Hunter and Marcus Alexich and one director, Ray Page was appointed to fill a vacancy and is up for election. The directors serve for a term of three years. The Annual Meeting is a great way to meet our Board of Directors and have a chance to ask questions you may have about our community. The food drive continues for the United Food Bank of Plant City. The need to feed the truly hungry in our community goes throughout the year. The Food Bank is offering a summer children’s program and donations would be greatly appreciated to sustain this program. Next time you see a Buy One Get One, keep one and donate the other to the Food Bank. Any non-perishable food donations are greatly appreciated and can be dropped off at the HOA office Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM. Real Estate is always an interesting subject and our current market seems to be moving very quickly. Agents are seeing many investors scrambling to purchase homes for cash, leaving home buyers wondering why their offer wasn’t accepted. If you are interested or know someone who is looking to buy or sell, let’s meet for coffee to discuss your current options.

Beginning March 13th, stricter watering restrictions were put in effect. Watering is now only one day per week. Also, car washing is limited to one day per week on your designated watering day. To find all the information on these new restrictions, visit www.plantcitygov.com. These guidelines Next month, I will be writing about the first will remain in effect until July 31st. quarter statistics in Walden Lake.

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march 2013 focusplantcity.com

The Annual Homeowners Association Meeting will be Thursday April 11th at 7 PM in the main dining room at Walden Lake Golf & Country Club. There are no new candidates for the HOA Board,

If you would like me to cover a particular topic or would like information on a particular property, please do not hesitate to call me. I can be reached at 813-758-9586.

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SHORT SALE. Lovely 3Bedroom, 2.5Bath with 2Car Garage town home in gated community. Built in 2008 in great central location & Priced to Sell! Call 813-659-0990 #552

Short Sale. Charming 3 bedroom 2 bath block Home on huge lot in quiet neighborhood near the park, nice storage shed on the property. Priced at $79,000. Call at 813-659-0990. #479

ATTENTION POLK STATE STUDENTS DESIRABLE HISTORIC DISTRICT PRIME COMMERCIAL LOCATION! 2 yrs young and very well maintained Condo overlooking pond. Walking distance to PSC and just minutes from Polk parkway. Kitchen features stainless appliances, granite counter tops, solid wood cabinets and eat in space. Call Susan @ 863-698-4823 #506

Land with city utilities! Home has been removed leaving a blank slate on which to build your own work of art. May still be impact fee exempt? Motivated sellers waiting to look at offers. Dont miss your opportunity to own and build in beautiful,Historic Plant City where lots like this are scarce. Call Susan @ 863-698-4826 #521

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foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

real estate » mortgage

Keeping Your

Property Taxes Low Column by Nate Davis

DENTAL ASSOCIATES PLANT CITY DR. JOHN CARTER

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march 2013 focusplantcity.com

here are several steps you can take to save money on things that concern your home other than refinancing or going with some other home-modification program. This month, I’ll focus on a simple tip that requires no money being brought to the table. There is no doubt that homeowners should always make sure they apply for their homestead exemption. In Florida, the exemption protects homeowners from having their property taxes skyrocket, should their home value do the same. The deadline to file just passed by several weeks ago for people who bought a primary residence in 2012. But for anyone who will purchase or has already this year, they

should file as soon as they can after closing on their home. To file for a homestead exemption in Hillsborough County, all you have to do is go to the county’s property appraiser website (www.hcpafl.org) and type your name or address in the search bar. Click on your property and then click the “APPLY FOR HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION ONLINE” link. The web page has instructions on what you’ll need to do. It’s important to note that you can’t file a homestead exemption on property that is not a primary residence. Simply put, you cannot file for the exemption on secondary and investment homes.

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APARTMENTS FOR THE ELDERLY One bedroom Apartments • Rent based on income

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Applications available at each location foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

Sports » Basketball

The Rest of the Story

Former City Recreation Director Cunigan Remembered Article by Joe Bowles

ago when his daughter Karen contacted me, that I discovered the rest of the story

staff position as Pastor of Evangelism and Visitation until he and Nancy retired in 2002. That’s when they took their ministry on the road as they traveled around the country as itinerant evangelists. Nancy was a wonderful Bible teacher and a mentor to women. Brock used his talent at the keyboard and his voice in song (B.A. in voice at UK) as well as behind the pulpit to share the gospel. They did so all over the southeastern part of the United States until Nancy had a dream in January 2012 that they should quit traveling and move to Grayson, Kentucky. Shortly thereafter, Nancy was diagnosed with multiple myeloma and passed away on June 30.

In 1984, Brock and Nancy Cunigan surrendered their lives to the ministry, which brought about a tremendous change in their outlook on life and eternity. Nancy’s mission field became wherever she worked. At one time, Nancy was an assistant in the University of Kentucky Athletic Department working closely with Rick Pitino, Tubby Smith, and Billy Donovan. Brock worked in real estate and taught at Berea College. But their heart’s desire was Brock did not understand why God had to be involved in full-time Christian service. moved them to Grayson until this past December when he heard someone crying Through the Assemblies of God Church, for help. He followed the sounds to a farm Brock and Nancy served as missionaries behind his home and found a man with from 1991-1994 to the people of the his arm and leg caught in a corn picker Marshall Islands. After returning to the bleeding profusely. Because of Brock’s states in 1994, Brock taught at Grace assistance and his prayers, the farmer’s life Christian Academy in Lexington, before was saved. That was the last ministry that becoming the Pastor of Grace Fellowship Brock was engaged in, that we are aware Church in Brownsville, Texas in 1996. Two of, before he went to Heaven on January years later, Brock and Nancy returned to 19. According to the coroner, Brock passed the Marshall Islands as missionaries once away in his recliner with his Bible in his lap again until 1999 when Brock took a church and Nancy’s funeral program in his hand.

Brock Cunigan. Photo courtesy of Karen Pomponio

he Plant City Recreation Department’s Youth Basketball League just completed another successful season last month with 400 youths from ages 8-16 making up the 36 teams. It was the forty-first season of Youth Basketball that originated in 1973 as the brainchild of the city’s first paid recreation director, Brock Cunigan. Raised in Kentucky, a hotbed for basketball, and a graduate of the University of Kentucky, Cunigan was appalled that baseball was the only sport in Plant City available to youth, outside of school athletics. So, getting a youth basketball program started in Plant City was a priority for him. I was hired as a summer recreation worker for Brock in 1973, the same year that youth basketball began in Plant City. I continued to work for Brock after the summer for the next two years as the city’s Athletic Director. It was merely a title Brock gave to me. I still made minimum wage and my job description consisted of doing whatever Brock told me to do.

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

There was so much Brock did in those days. There were so many ‘firsts” for Plant City. With the support of the Optimist Club, Little Lads Basketball began. Brock also helped organize the very first youth parade held during the Strawberry Festival. Brock thought that Plant City needed more culture so he organized a little community theatre group with twenty-five cast members and a dozen others who worked behind the scenes. Brock was the producer and director of “Calamity Jane” in August 1974. Dixie Forbes was Calamity Jane and Glen Mathias played Wild Bill Hickok. During those two years with Brock, I became very close to him. I loved being around him. He made me laugh and feel good about myself. But when the money that was budgeted for my job was discontinued, I had to take another job. After I finished college, I lost contact with Brock and his assistant director, Nancy, whom Brock married in 1979. They subsequently moved back to his home state Cunigan (on left) meets with the President of Little Lads Basketball in 1974. of Kentucky. But it wasn’t until a few weeks Photo courtesy of Karen Pomponio

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foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

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Sports » athlete of the month

athlete of the month

sponsored by chili’s

Article by Joe Bowles

Kennedy Dean

any people feel that the Durant High School softball team’s state championship season hinged on a turnaround game played April 5 against Wharton. You see, Durant had just lost three consecutive games; all to district opponents, and the team was headed in the wrong direction as they faced-off against their fourth district rival in a row.

A member of the National Honor Society, the Future Farmers of America, and SAC (Students All Connected), the third baseman (.984 fielding percentage) plans to use her college softball scholarship to prepare her for a profession as a physical therapist. She became interested while watching her dad go through therapy at a sports clinic following knee surgery. She also attributes her decision to the influence of her grandmother, Ellen Adams, who happens to be a physical therapist.

In that game, Durant held a 2-0 lead heading into the fourth inning when this month’s “Athlete of the Month”, Kennedy Dean, belted a tape measure home run that put the Cougars up by three. The next inning, the Wildcats scored twice to close the gap to a single run. When Kennedy came to bat in the sixth, she drove a pitch out of the ballpark once again. Durant won the contest and for the remainder of the season, never lost another game, claiming the school’s first-ever state softball championship.

Kennedy, who lives by Acts 2:25, “I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved,” sought God’s leadership in deciding where to go to college.

“When Kennedy was considering scholarship offers,” recalled Kristi, “God had opened several doors, but then God seemed to shut the doors everywhere “It was a game that was dedicated to except at the honoring breast cancer research and so the college that she mood of the team was sort of down. So, I committed to.” tried to pump up the team… telling them that we had to get up for the game. I’d The doors to never felt that way before. I was pumped up. State College The first home run, I knew was gone, but I of Florida wasn’t sure about the second one. So, when opened and it cleared the fence it was unreal. I’ve never never shut for ever hit two home runs in the same game.” Dean when last summer, Dean’s Dean, a four-year starter for the Cougars, is travel ball coach, Jeff Lang, encouraged her a senior this year, and after seven games is to attend a camp at the school. Dean had batting above .300 for the 5-2 Cougars. She been to plenty of camps in the past, but Lang also recently committed to play college ball believed that this one would be different. At at the State College of Florida in Sarasota. the camp, she met the head coach, Meredith But her journey began at the age of four Headings, who showed a special interest in when her parents, Robbie and Kristi Dean, Dean. Headings offered her a visit to the signed her up to play tee-ball baseball with campus apartments. Then they started to the boys at Plant City Little League. Her email back and forth and after another machine pitch years (age 6-7) were spent at campus visit, Headings offered Dean a the Pinecrest Little League softball fields. scholarship. Congratulations to Kennedy When Dean turned eight, she started Dean as she tackles the next level of playing travel ball, first with the Tampa competition! We wish her the best as this Heat Wave and later with the Florida Gold, new season begins. the Plant City Sizzlers, and today with the Lakeland Rage.

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Sports » team of the month

jaguars Sports Team of the Month

there at the end when they got into some lead that that would not be relinquished, as foul trouble and then committed a couple they took home the championship trophy of turnovers.” with a three-point win.

The Jaguars are familiar with championship games. This is the Jaguars’ second consecutive title. Last year’s team won the championship with John Petty at the helm. Article by Joe Bowles This year Petty became the Jaguars’ assistant he Jaguars captured the 2013 Plant city tournament but the Jaguars were able coach teaming up with head coach Jacobsen City Recreation Department’s to eke out a two-point victory. to project their team into the finals. Youth Basketball Senior Division (12-13 yrs.) Championship in a defensive In the semifinal game, the Jaguars faced the After the beating that the Jaguars took struggle with the Wizards on February 16 Warriors and trailed nearly the entire game earlier in the year, Jacobsen knew that he by a score of 32-29. The Jaguars avenged until the final minutes, when Jacobsen’s had to change game plans. The Wizards an earlier regular season loss by eighteen squad pulled ahead and held on for a 49- were a fast tempo team that averaged more points to the Wizards, by slowing down 46 win. than 50 points per game during the season. the tempo in the championship game and He told his Jaguar players to slow things focusing on defense. “We were real lucky in this game,” said down, play defense, and take good shots. Jacobsen. “The Warriors played well and The strategy enabled the Jaguars to take a “We knew that we were going to have a we were losing the whole game until right lead at the end of the first quarter. It was a hard time with the Wizards,” said Jaguars’ head coach Jeff Jacobsen. “Especially since they were undefeated and they had beaten us pretty bad earlier in the year. But I gave our team a pep talk before the game and told them that they just had to relax… that the pressure was on the other team.”

“We played strong all year. If we were to have a MVP, it would be our Calvin Richardson. But all of our boys played good. I was real proud of them. Our older boys were leaders and our younger boys came on strong there at the end, especially in that last quarter.” Next year looks promising as the younger boys remain on the Jaguars for one more season. All of the Jaguars’ players live in Plant City and also play for their respective middle school teams; Tomlin, Marshall, or Shiloh.

Heading into the playoffs, the Wizards were the regular reason champions with a record of 8-0. The Jaguars were impressive, as well, going 7-1 with their only loss coming at the hands of the Wizards, coached by D.J. Hood. Even with their nearly flawless records, getting to the title game in this eight-team division was anything but easy for either team. In the first round of the city tournament, the Jaguars were pitted against the Lakers, a team that they played earlier in the season. In that earlier game, the score was tied at the end of regulation. Jacobsen’s team Back Row L-R: Coach Jon Petty, Dylan Robinson, Michael Petty, Jarrett Jacobsen, Ben Pues, Miles Forte, Coach Jeff Jacobsen subsequently won the game in overtime. Front Row L-R: Cade Sibner, Calvin Richardson, Joseph Jacobsen, Adam Ramirez, Brodie Richards The Lakers were just as formidable in the Photo courtesy of Sports Photo, Inc.

foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

extra » senior of the month

kelsey fry

Senior of the month Article by Chelsea Talavera

competitive swimmer on National Develop Group for TBAY Brandon. She trains countless hours a week. Kelsey has committed to the University of West Florida and is headed to Pensacola next fall. This month she will be participating in the Florida Senior Championship meet in Orlando Fl. This meet will allow her to show how much she has improved from the previous year.

Photo by Anthony Sassano

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Kelsey has also dedicated many hours to community service. She has volunteered with the United Food Bank, at an assisted living facility, Metropolitan Ministries, Relay for Life and AgAbillities. She also organized and developed a community service project called “Facebook for seniors” where she taught senior adults how to navigate Facebook. She has a recorded number of 130 hours served.

he newly crowned Florida Strawberry Festival Queen has been nominated for another award! She is Plant City High’s Senior of the Month. Being Queen calls for a busy schedule, but She has participated in many public Kelsey Fry’s life is packed. speaking events and won 2nd place in the Kelsey is a dedicated student. She is currently Optimist Club Youth Speech Contest, is ranked within the top 5% of the class with a a three time winner of the Farm Bureau 5.48 G.P.A. She is very involved throughout District Speech Contest and a two time the school. She is a member of Future winner of the Regional Competition. Business Leaders of America, Civinettes, She was also the Club, Sub-District, and and Senior Executive Council. She is also District winner of the Rotary Speech the Treasurer of this year’s National Honor Contest. She considers public speaking a Society. Kelsey is the Founding President hobby and really enjoys it, which will pay of the Ronald McDonald Charity House off since she plans to major in marketing. Club. In February she prepared dinner for the residents of the house in Tampa. Kelsey Let’s be honest, the girl is great. She also has been a member of the FFA and 4H will make many memories at this year’s for four years. Her father owns a nursery Strawberry Festival and forever be a part and this Festival she sold and showed her of a huge tradition. Kelsey is a sweet girl, with a gorgeous smile and an amazing plants at the Plant Sale. personality. It’s no wonder why she has won Her passion is swimming. She is this all of these awards and was picked as this year’s captain of the swim team and has year’s Queen! She continues to be humble been a member all four years. She is also a as ever and gives all the glory to God.

extra » senior of the month

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Senior of the month

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ave you ever encountered a person who is just so bright? Their intelligence is captivating and you keep listening because everything said is just genius. That is the case with Plant City High School senior, Samuel Carrizales. Sam is currently ranked 4th in his class, which places him in the top 1% of the graduating class. He is a member of the 1280 Club, which is for scoring equivalent or higher on the SAT’s. His academics have allowed him a spot in the National Honor Society. He has been awarded an “AP Scholar with Distinction” by the College Board. Sam was also selected as the English student of Fame, and “Most likely to succeed” by the senior class.

Club, Science Club, World Language Club and a Quiz Bowl Team Member. Being involved in these clubs has allowed him many opportunities for community service. He has participated in events such as serving food for the Florida Opry, Breakfast with Santa, PCHS Cheerleading Competitions and the Daddy-Daughter Dance at HCC. He has also gone to Special Olympics with the Raider Buddies. Sam has dedicated many hours to helping people all over our town and enjoys it entirely.

Samuel’s future aspirations include pursuing a degree in Neuroscience at a major university. He strives for a diverse scholar exposure and does everything to his fullest potential. As a result, Sam is the only male He is also an active member on the in the top ten Honor Circle at Plant City Academic Team, the Debate Club, Key this year. His future is bright, indeed.

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extra » Wanda’s Words

Wanda’s Words

of Wisdom Column by Wanda Anderson

bread. Your slightly hard cookies will soften right up. One of my favorite cooking tips is to place a wooden utensil over the top of pot with boiling water; it keeps the water from boiling over. I can’t tell you how many times this has saved me from cleaning up a mess. Coffee smells so good brewing in the mornings, but did you know coffee helps aster is right around the corner, so eliminate pesky odors? For the next few here are some tips that may help you days, put a small bowl or container of fresh in the kitchen as you prepare that ground coffee in the smelly area you’re having trouble with. It will help take the traditional Sunday family feast. odor away. Have you ever reached for the brown sugar only to find it’s hard as a rock and trying Speaking of coffee, you can use a coffee to chisel off pieces doesn’t work, creating filter to make large muffins. Just put a few inaccurate measurements and an unwanted in a cake pan so they support each other. mess? Here’s a simple solution; put a slice or two of bread in the bag of brown sugar and It won’t be long before it’s time to color eggs for Easter. Be sure to add a pinch of it will stay soft. salt to the boiling water to keep the eggs I’m a southern cook and my mother taught from cracking. In addition, you can check me well, but sometimes I tend to leave your eggs to see if they’re fresh by placing cookies baking in the oven just a tad too them in cool, salty water. If they sink, long. If you constantly find yourself in they’re fresh; if they float, it’s time to throw a similar situation, I have an answer for them out. you— again using a handy piece of bread. When your cookies are cooled, place them Until next time… relax, enjoy and be in a large baggie or container with a slice of thankful.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

extra » derek maul

Maybe We Should Sweat the Small Stuff? Column by Derek Maul

back to that Russian meteor, absolutely everything we choose to do in terms of deliberate and good-hearted change has the potential to make a 500 kiloton impact for good.

mall things can make a big impact. True story.

Just ask the residents of Chelyabinsk, Russia, who recently witnessed the most incredible explosion in response to a meteor (the largest to hit earth in 100 years) around 55 ft. in diameter. According to NASA, the spectacular explosion released nearly 500 kilotons of energy, that’s more than 30 times the blast of the Hiroshima atomic bomb.

Let me repeat that: Absolutely anything we chose to do in terms of deliberate and good-hearted change has the potential to make a 500 kiloton impact for good.

SMALL THINGS, BIG HEARTS:

What this world needs is not so much perfect solutions, but imperfect people who continually and resolutely do small things for good with big hearts.

I’m inclined to believe that too many of us waste too much time and effort looking for the 90-yard play, the bases-loaded walk-off home run, the three-pointer at the buzzer… when what we really need is a long series of three-yard efforts, nine-innings of walks Likewise, small decisions that we make and and base-hits, and consistent scoring as an seemingly insignificant things that we do alternative to turning the ball over. can have repercussions beyond the limits of our imagination. Sometimes the fallout is good; sometimes not so much. While a lot of people are waiting around for something spectacular, the rest of us could be making a much bigger impact on our I was thinking about all this while preparing families, our communities and our world via my newest contribution to the parenting day after day of simple, small, 500-kiloton website at AllProDad.com. decisions. Acts of kindness, encouragement, grace, mercy, love, goodness, and faith. All-Pro-Dad is a nationwide web-based • So you want to change the world? Then be initiative designed to provide fathers with an encourager. the resources and the encouragement • So you want to change your family? Then necessary to help them be the best and be kind. most passionate-for-the-family dads • So you want to change your community? possible. The program is an arm of Family Then serve others. First (FamilyFirst.net), and it is closely • So you want to change your church? Then aligned with Super Bowl winning (and follow Jesus. former Tampa Bay Buccaneers) coach Tony Dungy’s ongoing mission to be an advocate He has told you, human one, what is good, for fatherhood. and what the Lord requires from you: to do justice, embrace faithful love, and walk You won’t find the name “Derek Maul” humbly with your God. (Micah 6:8 – CEV) anywhere on the site, but I write a huge amount of content for All-Pro-Dad. Today, Nothing spectacular. Nothing to draw for example, I’ll be working on the 160th in attention to ourselves. Nothing big enough a series of articles built around “Top-Ten” to be tracked by NASA’s Near Earth Object and “Top-Five” lists. program. Just 500 kilotons of love.

HUGE IMPACT FOR GOOD!

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS:

Interestingly, if you scanned those lists, You can reach author Derek Maul via his pretty much every single point that I make website, www.DerekMaul.com is small and doable. However, and thinking

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extra » candy’s corner

candy’s Corner Column by Candy Owens

Speaking of spit shined, those girls were all decked out in their pageant dresses, white gloves, patent leather shoes, wrist corsages, and teased, Dippity Do’d, and shellaced hair. They all looked like Tricia Nixon all Loretta Lynned up. Mother and I raced back to the corner of Reynolds and Collins Street where my father was waiting outside his office with his 8-millimeter movie camera standing by to film the parade.

otton candy, games of chance, the Strawberry Festival begins today. Ferris wheels and rides galore, excitement to convey. Smell the peanuts, popcorn, and strawberry pie floating through the air. See amazing wonders inside the tents from lands of far and near. I have such fond recollections of the Strawberry Festival, especially as a child. There was so much to see and do. The rides out on the midway, the crowning of the Strawberry Queen, the shoebox float contest, the baby parade, the arts and crafts display, the arrest of Mr. and Mrs. Tourist, the booths inside what was called the neighborhood building, the Strawberry Cook Off, and the Strawberry Festival parade. One of the most exciting years at the Strawberry Festival that I recall was back in 1971. My sister Karen was the reigning Little Miss Plant City, which meant that she would crown the new baby parade king and queen. She, along with her court, would also get to ride in the parade. I remember my mother and me taking my sister to the Farmer’s market on the morning of the parade to get on the Little Miss Plant City float. When we pulled up to the designated drop-off spot, what we found was not a big and fancy float but a brand new, spit shined, 1971 Oldsmobile 442 convertible complete with navy blue racing stripes. Wow! How cool was that? I watched in amazement as my sister along with her court climbed aboard that super sporty cruising vessel as Mrs. Kaye Sharpe presided at the wheel.

First came the flags, then the law enforcement officers, followed by the bands, the floats, the clowns, the dance companies, the open-aired cars, the clubs, the organizations, more bands, more floats, and more flags. We watched and waited while Dad filmed for what seemed like forever, then there she was, my big sister in that convertible wearing her robe and crown, waving to the people. We were so excited to see my sister so happy. My father was so proud that he filmed her until she was completely out of sight. My father also made it a point to film two of our city’s favorite people in the parade, Betty Barker Watkins and John Glaros. Betty would come by dressed as a clown with huge sunglasses peddling a bicycle, while John, or “Big John” as he was known around town, would walk the parade route wearing overalls pulling a wagon. Betty Barker Watkins went on to become elected to the city commission and was the first female elected to municipal office in Hillsborough County. She was also Citizen of the Year, Woman of the Year, the first female ever allowed to become a Kiwanis, just to name a few, and retired from the school system after a 37year career She was widely known for her generosity, the love of her church, and her uncanny musical ability. John Glaros was originally from Greece. His family came to Plant City where they owned and operated several restaurants, held public office, and owned and operated a motel. John’s brother is Plant City’s very own retired pharmacist Manuel Glaros. John was also the uncle of Tammy Glaros Johnson of Fred’s Market Restaurant. Both the Glaros family and the Barker family went on to become very active, very respected, and very loved in Plant City.

The Festival of 1972 was also a special memory for me. That was the year that my best friend’s mother, Mrs. Jean Barker Weaver, won the Strawberry Cook Off with her famous French Strawberry Pancake recipe. I was a fourth grade student at Jackson Elementary that year and I remember how our school was so excited the morning of the cook off for several reasons. Mrs. Weaver was the president of our school’s PTA, her children JeanAnn and Curt Weaver were students at our school, and the cook off was going to be broadcast live on television. My teacher, Mrs. Jean Fulford, reserved a television set from our school library for our classroom so that we could watch. When the newscaster announced Mrs. Weaver as the grand prize winner, our class stood up and cheered. We watched at Mrs. Weaver was presented with flowers, a trophy, and a brand new 1972 Amana electric range. Mrs. Weaver told the newscaster that she got the recipe for the French Strawberry Pancakes from the Mike Douglas show and her secret was that she used real butter. Here is her recipe for the pancake: ½ cup granulated sugar, ½ cup whole milk, 1 stick of real butter, ½ cup self rising flour, and 3 eggs. Mix sugar, flour, and eggs and set aside. Melt butter in pie tin and pour sugar mixture on top of butter, but do not stir. Bake for 20 minutes at 350 degrees. Strawberry glaze topping: 1 ½ cups strawberries, 1 cup granulated sugar, ¾ tablespoon red food coloring, and 1 tablespoon of corn starch. Place ¾ cup of raw berries on top of hot pancake. Place the remaining berries along with the sugar, food coloring, butter, and starch in a pot and bring to a boil. Pour over pancake and top heavily with whipped cream. Top with a huge strawberry and serve immediately.

me, fed me, helped me, listened to me, and treated me just as if I was her real daughter. Mrs. Weaver has and always will be a true inspiration in my life. The most special memory of them all is that of my family spending time together at the fair. Upon entering the fair my parents would look directly at my sister and me and tell us that if for any reason we became separated we should go to a designated area or tell a policeman that we were lost. Needless to say I held on to my father or mother’s hand and was not going to let go. We would first go to the stand where this man sold crazy hats. My sister and I would pick one out and the man would place the hat on this big machine and sew our name directly on the hat. We would next get a balloon, a tissue paper flower, or a stuffed monkey on a stick. One year my sister decided on a Kazoo rather than something on a stick. My father ended up taking that away from her because he said it was driving him crazy. I think the next year she opted for the flower on a stick. I think my parents bought us those treats and funny hats so that they could easily pick us out in the crowd if in fact we did get away from them. Next, we were off for the walk through the neighborhood building to look at all the booths. I remember the two ladies that looked like twins that sold the fudge, the heavyset man wearing the skimmer hat selling the cheese and sausage, Parkesdale Farm booth where my sister and I would take turns sitting in the big red strawberry and saying: “One day I will be queen!”, the roasted nut booth, and my favorite of them all, the hand-blown glass figurine booth. There was a man that stood there and made anything out of glass that you could imagine. Every year my father had a crystal ballerina made just for me.

So many years and festivals have gone by since the days of the funny hats and stuffed monkeys on sticks. My sister actually went on to become the Strawberry Queen back in 1977. I remember going to the blownglass figurine booth the year after my father passed away. The man behind the counter Mrs. Weaver will turn 86 years young asked if he could help me and I just said, this May and has never let age get in her “No sir, I’m just looking.” way. She still is very involved with her church, her club meetings, her children, And golly how we loved the fair, my family, her grandchildren, her gardening, her friends, and I. How we cherished each decorating, her traveling, and her cooking, moment ardently, each laugh, and squeal, and boy, what a fantastic cook is she. Mrs. and cry. Weaver has been like my second mother for the past 46 years. She has from the start always loved me, included me, disciplined foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

extra » auto review

One Fast Little Beamer

(813) 707-9303

BMW Introduces the 135i

2301 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City, FL

Review by Brian West

ust a few years ago, BMW extended their offerings at the entry level of their product line to include the 1 Series, replacing the 3 Series, which had been a popular choice for decades as the entry-level model. Critics have described the new entry-level series as, “…a cheapening of the brand…” and some may agree. But there’s no doubt that the 1 Series belongs to BMW. On the exterior, the first thing you notice about the 135i is that visually, it looks smaller than the 3 Series – and it is. Noticeably. The design and styling make it appear to sit even lower to the ground than it actually does. If anything, it’s sharper at the edges and corners of the roof lines than other BMW models, but when you make a smaller product, I guess you lose some of the opportunity to have those long, drawn out styling lines. For me, it almost doesn’t look like a BMW. In fact, without the BMW badging, onlookers might find themselves guessing the manufacturer, and not naturally settling this offering into the BMW product line. Then again, as you move up the BMW product line, those styling lines become more and more elegant as you climb, so maybe this was done purposely. But I think they could be a little softer than what’s offered.

control the music and phone through the audio system controls; a push and turn knob located where your hand would be naturally, just in front of the center console. Even better, text messages and alerts appear on the audio system display, so there’s no need to hold your phone while driving. This all happens through BMW Apps, something BMW is very proud of. And I wouldn’t be doing anyone any good if I didn’t point out that taller drivers aren’t going to be as comfortable in the 135i. If you are a taller driver, save yourself some time and skip the 135i and maybe start with the 3 Series. Although there is a back seat, if you intend to use it for passengers older than about 5, it better be a short trip. The 135i is available with a 4 or 6-cylinder engine. Don’t even think about the 4cylinder. Go ahead and opt for the 6-cylinder. Get the turbocharged model and you get 306hp and 0-60 in 5 seconds; plenty to get you into interstate traffic or around slow moving tractors on our local rural roads. This is the major saving grace of the 135i, so you shouldn’t be disappointed. The handling is tight and the steering is very responsive.

Thank you for nominating us for Best Dessert

BUY ONE GET ONE FREE

Any Cone

Any Milkshake

2301 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City Expires 4-15-13 (813) 707-9303

All in all, the 1 Series is a BMW. But remember, this is a product that extends the Open the doors, climb inside, and things lower end of their product line, those who become a little more familiar to BMW. are more familiar with the 3, 5, 6 or even 7. The sound of the doors closing, the overall look of the interior and the sound of the Series coupes and sedans, may find the 1 engine are definitely from BMW, again, on Series a little too stripped down for their a smaller scale, but still BMW. One of the taste. Although the 135i is a nice offering, unique features is a phone dock in the center for BMW, it really may just be a cheapening console that allows your phone to connect of the brand. to the audio system. Once docked, you can foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

extra » artist of the month

Living and Loving

Together by Sharing

an Artful Life John and Patricia Alleman

t is truly a blessing to have within our community a space known as the Art Lounge Gallery that offers such a talented array of various artists. The Gallery has recently added two new members by welcoming both husband and wife John and Patricia Alleman. John and Patricia have been married for over twenty years and are both clearly and without a doubt each other’s biggest supporters. Although they each work in completely different mediums they somehow find ways to work and share in the experience of creating art together.

Article by Heather Davis

taking photographs of nature, animals, and old bridges. Patricia’s joy comes from capturing and creating the finished product. John enjoys helping assist Patricia by going with her on photo shoots as well as making the wooden frames for her finished photographs. Both Patricia and John are self taught in their art forms as well as being fairly new. John has been doing wood turning for only a little more than two years and Patricia has been doing photography for only one year. As accomplished and professional as their finished products are, one would believe that they had been practicing their types of art for as long as they have been married. This is due in part to their passion for what they do along with hard work and persistence.

John’s form of art is wood turning. Through this type of art medium he creates beautiful wooden bowls by using a lathe and reclaimed wood. The complete wood turning process of creating these bowls from start to finish can take up to six months and the finished product is nothing short of amazing. John’s wife Patricia is always there to offer John a In observing how quickly these two have guiding hand as well as helpful suggestions. progressed in their art mediums it will be interesting to watch what type of name Patricia on the other hand is a photographer. this dynamic duo can create for themselves. For her what began as a hobby has Plant City and The Art Lounge Gallery are blossomed into a passion. She enjoys very fortunate to have them.

Patricia Alleman shows off just one of her several photographs. Photo by Heather Davis

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

Enjoy an assortment of gourmet burgers including 100% Meyers Angus, Chicken, Turkey, Portabella, Vegan, Pork, Salmon, Duck and Lamb. Awesome.

$5 OFF

WITH PURCHASE OF TWO BURGERS Dine in only, not to be combined with any other offer. Expires 3/30/13

www.Square1burgers.com 2042 Badlands Drive, Brandon

813-689-1611

3701 Henderson Blvd., Tampa

813-414-0101

Also visit us in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch and Ft. Myers

foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

d & e » recipe of the month

Auntie Paula’s Killer Cookies

recipe of the month

Auntie Paula’s Killer Cookies

Recipe by Gail Jones

married the baby in my husband’s family. And not just the baby, but the baby boy. And not just the baby boy, but the only boy…So, get this, I married the only baby boy in my husband’s family—and he has four older sisters! And guess what? I absolutely love all of them. And guess what else? Unless they’re all amazing actresses, they seem to love me too. So much so that my wonderful sister-inlaw Paula, spent a full week of her precious vacation time visiting me while my husband was out of town. Oh, and did I mention that she’s from Idaho? Northern Idaho? And that she is a well-established banker? So of course, when she spent her valuable time and money visiting Florida for the first time in her life, there was a cold front and it was about the same temperature on the Canadian border as it was here in Hillsborough County.

Oh, and, being the avid baker that Paula has always been, we made her newest and greatest cookie recipe for my daughter, who shares her aunt’s sweet tooth…with a crucial ingredient that I didn’t even know existed above the Mason Dixon line. And no, it’s not lard… …Butter Flavored Crisco! My dear Paula has what she considers a flaw, and I consider a huge asset...a penchant for chocolate chip cookies, pecans, toffee, and a fearless willingness to experiment with baked goods. After countless attempts to use real butter, mix toffee bits into the batter, and to keep the chocolate chips to the Surgeon General’s recommended annual minimum, Paula threw caution to the wind and came up with her ultimate cookie recipe. It now has an official fivestar rating from my mother, my father, my daughter and about twenty kids who share her table at lunch, and our ShepherdRottweiler mutt, who loves nothing better than a warm cookie.

But the lovely Paula, as gracious as any born- Who knew a girl from Idaho could make and-bred southerner, was a delight. We Crisco a gourmet ingredient? shopped voraciously, gabbed continuously, and ate constantly (Thank you Fred’s, La Septima, and The Columbia!).

Ingredients

1.5 sticks Butter Flavor Crisco 2.5 cups light brown sugar, packed 4 tablespoons milk 2 tablespoons vanilla extract 2 large eggs 3.5 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons salt 1.5 teaspoon baking soda 24 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips 2 cups chopped pecans Topping 1 bag Heath Bits 6 ounces dark chocolate chips

Directions Heat oven to 375º.

chocolate chips and pecans. Place batter in freezer for twenty minutes.

Combine Heath Bits and dark chocolate chips in a food processor and grind to Scoop large tablespoons of medium texture. Set aside on dough and press into Heath a cookie sheet. Bit mixture. Return dough to freezer between batches. Set In a mixer, combine Crisco, cookies on ungreased cookie brown sugar, milk, vanilla, sheet and bake twenty and eggs. Mix flour, salt, and minutes. baking soda in separate bowl Cool on racks and renew and gradually add to mixer. When fully incorporated, add your gym membership! foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

PARKESDALE

WE’RE MORE THAN JUST SHORTCAKE

Open Daily! 9-6

Thank you for Voting us Best Strawberry Shortcake, Dessert, and Milkshake

December-April Voted Best Milkshake in America from the Food Network (#3 Best Dessert overall)

813-752-0502

3702 W. Baker Street • Plant City, FL Hwy 92 West of Plant City Limits off I-4 between exits 17 & 19 Open 9-6pm OPEN 7 DAYS • www.parkesdale.com

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

d & e » dining profile

Twistee Treat Cream and so much more Profile by Cheryl Johnston

“Mr. Derek has been so supportive of my education,” she said, “and of my co-workers, too. I feel as if I have joined a small family. Heather Courcelle, who attends HCC and started when I did, recognizes the regulars by their cars when they drive in. This truly Non-stop would describe the customer is a great job.” traffic flow on this particular Sunday at the ice-cream cone shaped business on Since 2002, Scott has been the sole owner Jim Redman Parkway in Plant City. And of the restaurant his family purchased in conversations with customers prove that 1997. He takes pride in using the best and freshest ingredients. Twistee Treat regulars visit regularly. f a line of cars at the drive-thru window and a steady stream of folks waiting to order at the walk-up counter are any indication, business at Twistee Treat is booming!

On this trip, Valrico winter visitors Tom & “Flavor is so important and I want to make Lynn Batcho from Farmdale, Ohio brought certain our customers are satisfied with their selections, so they’ll return again and friend Jack Boyce. again, and bring their friends,” explained “We love this place,” said Tom. “The ice Scott. “It’s all about customer service and cream is fresh and creamy and we love working to give them a joyful experience… listening to the oldies music, too. We like Our ice cream is made with real milk and Photo by Cheryl Johnston the strawberry sundae and the Nathan’s hot 10% butterfat, which is why customers dogs. Actually, everything we’ve tried here continually comment about the creamy complimented Velasco. “And you must try freshness.” has been great.” the guerilla cone (a large waffle cone dipped in chocolate and nuts). There’s nothing else In addition to incredible ice cream delights A regular customer for 12 years, Robert like it.” like banana splits and specialty sundaes, Velasco, stopped by this day to order the Twistee Treat is also known for its delicious “Chicago Dog” and the “New York Dog,” Tomlin Middle School student McKenzie pressed sandwiches with interesting names two of the 13 specialty hot dog sandwiches Talavera, 12, talked her mom into bringing such as Conductor, Box Car, Club Car, available here. Sandwich toppings can her and friend Katie Ammon, 13, to Italian Locomotive and Cuban Flatcar. include chili, cheese, sauerkraut, coleslaw, Twistee Treat this trip because the Hunter Sandwiches include a choice of chips, relish, onions (chopped or sautéed), pickles, Hayes concert at the Strawberry Festival red or green peppers, jalapenos, and bacon was too crowded. “We’re happy,” she said. coleslaw or potato salad as well. bits. “Dirt sundaes are the best.” “The Cuban is one of the most popular,” said server Chelsea Langley, a college student/ “You can experience the quaintness of Fat free and sugar free ice cream is also employee who has worked for owner Derek Plant City here, with friendly people, good available for customers who want to keep it music, outdoor seating and great food,” light. Twistee Treat has something for every Scott for the past year.

Twistee Treat adds special touches to Nathan’s hotdogs. Photo by Cheryl Johnston

appetite and diet plan, too. Hurry in soon to try a specialty and learn why so many regulars can’t stop raving. Scott and his staff are pretty certain you will become one, too!

information Twistee Treat 2301 James L Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 707-9303 Hours: 11AM - 10PM daily

A favorite of many Twistee Treat loyalists is the Peanut Butter Cookie Sundae. Photo by Cheryl Johnston foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

» dining guide

Find deals online at myfocuscoupons.com

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chili’s

hili’s has been spicing things up since 1975. There is something for everyone’s 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

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

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

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

» dining guide

Find deals online at myfocuscoupons.com

special advertisement

olde town pizzeria

f you love deep-dish pizza, Olde Town Pizzeria is the only place around to find it. The cheesy Chicago-style pizza is a popular item on the menu, as well as the Award Winning Strawberry Walnut Salad and thin crust pizzas. In addition, they have an array of delicious pastas, salads and sandwiches to satisfy all taste buds. This family owned and operated restaurant is a Plant City favorite for those who love high quality food and friendly service.

3011 James L Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33566 (813) 752-5800 • www.oldetownpizzeria.com

Plant City Hometown Buffet

lant City Hometown Buffet is a family owned and operated business started by Elaine Vo, a resident of Plant City for the last 24 years. They offer a wide variety of items spanning the five buffet bars, including seafood and steak. There is certainly something to fit every taste preference, especially if you’re looking for seafood with their catfish, stuffed crab, buttered shrimp and much, much, more.

1914 James L Redman Parkway plant city, fl 33563 813-754-4488

Shrimp & Co. Express

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

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 march 2013

t City for n la P s k n a Th CUBAN T S E B s u voting ! once again

Handmade Milkshakes with real Strawberries, Pineapple, Peanut Butter, Oreos and more.

We are open from 6:30a.m - 6:30p.m Mon - Sat.

NEW EXTENDED HOURS! nd Gif t Cards a Part y Trays Available

1505 N. Wheeler St. Plant City, FL 33563

813-752-3779

Try our Homade Spanish Bean Soup, Fresh Chef and Greek Salads You can View our Menu online at www.Thestrawberryhut.com

Notice portions shrinking while prices increase?

NOT HERE.

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

When Prostate Cancer keeps you from the things you love most - seek out the best treatment available in Plant City!

813-719-7705 303 North Alexander Street, Plant City, FL

Randy V. Heysek, MD FACRO

Located on South Florida Baptist Hospital grounds

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

Kathryn L. Kepes, MD FACRO

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

Thank you for Voting us 2012 Readers Choice Awards Best Italian & Best Pizza

Large/Xtra Large Pizza

garlic knots

Drink/Sandwich/Sub

Salad

dine in or take out

with any dinner dine in or take out

with any Sandwich or Sub

Dine In or Take Out

Must present coupon at time of purchase. Not to be combined with other offers. One coupon per visit, per order. Exp 4/15/13

$2 off any pizza 6 Free Garlic Knots Free Small Drink $1 off any salad Excludes Cheese Only Pizza Must present coupon at time of purchase. Not to be combined with other offers. One coupon per visit, per order. Exp 4/15/13

Must present coupon at time of purchase. Not to be combined with other offers. One coupon per visit, per order. Exp 4/15/13

foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

d & e » keel and curley

Keel and Curley Winery

Shows a Loving Heart

For the Scout Troop and Robotics Team Article by Deana Garrison

Debi Digman and friends enjoyed their time at the Valentine’s Day Dinner. Photo by Deana Garrison

CHINA ONE Dine In or Take Out Authentic Flavors • Extensive Menu New York Style

LUNCH SPECIAL

4.65

Thank You For Nominating us 2012 Readers Choice Awards

Best Asian

Mon-Sun 11a-3p Served with pork fried rice & free 12oz Soda

10% OFF all orders over $40 excluding lunch special. Exp. 4/15/13

(813) 707-8898

1862 James L Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33563

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

Hours: Mon-Thur 10:30am-10:00pm Fri-Sat 10:30am-11:00pm Sun 11:00am-10:00pm

eel and Curley Winery showed their love and support for the community by opening up their business strictly for a nonprofit event—to help out two youth groups that needed some support. On Thursday, February 14, they held a Valentine Dinner fundraiser hosted by the Boy Scout Troop 109 of Brandon and the Robotics Club from Middleton High School. These two groups grilled and served strip steak and chicken breast dinners that came with salad, a baked potato with all the trimmings, and two different desserts.

Some,” a group specializing in jazz and R&B styles. All in attendance enjoyed the music as well as the delicious food that was served. Many raved over how polite and courteous the young men were throughout the night.

“What a wonderful Valentine’s Day,” said Debi Digman, wife of event emcee Ike Digman. “We danced and enjoyed the evening while the Boy Scouts served us strip steaks grilled to order with all the trimmings and dessert. They were perfect gentlemen. We were so impressed with Robotics Team Coach Rich Berglund and their respect and good job in taking care of Troop 109 Scoutmaster Gordon Baccus us all. I sure hope Keel and Curley Winery decided to join forces since several boys are does this again. This was fun.” members of both groups. The proceeds from this fundraiser will help the Scouts go to Keel and Curley is always showing summer camp in Georgia and the Robotics their support for youth and many other Team attend a regional competition in Ft. organizations in the community. It‘s so great to see such unselfish acts given throughout Lauderdale. the year by this business. They support the Berglund, who’s also a Troop 109 Assistant community, so let’s support them. Scoutmaster, was happy with the results, stating, “Both groups enjoyed doing the The next big event taking place at the fundraiser. The kids learned a lot about the winery is the Blueberry Festival on April 27 food service industry. It was very successful and 28. This year, the festival will host its for both groups, and we learned a lot which first annual Blueberry Festival Pageant for will help us in the future. We have been girls of all age groups. This is definitely one event you won’t want to miss. asked to do this dinner again next year.” The entertainment was provided by Mulberry’s “Deanna Moore and Then

Sewing Machines Modern Fabrics Notions Books Patterns Classes

C 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

H D

A Salon Of Excellence Designed To Meet Your Tailored Looks Downtown Lee Building 110 E. Reynolds St., Ste. 400 Plant City, FL 33563

813-759-1023 foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

events

can’t miss

Youth Fishing

Planes, Trains,

and Automobiles

Sponsored by the Plant City Chamber of Commerce, the third annual Planes, Trains, and Automobiles event will take place on Saturday, March 23 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Plant City Airport. Displays, Demonstrations, and Information regarding planes, helicopters, remote control aircraft, model trains, and automobiles will be on hand. Other points of interest include free flights for kids provided by the Young Eagles, a kid’s clinic and play area, a computer flight simulator, vendors, and scouting badge opportunities in aviation, and search and rescue. Admission is free and parking is $5. For more information call 813-754-3707.

Easter Egg

The Plant City Recreation and Parks Department will host its 24th Annual CityWide Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 30 at 10 a.m. The free event will be held at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex on 2602 E. Cherry St. Children will be divided into four different age groups: 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, and 9-11. Nonrefundable Bunny Dollars will be available for $1 each to purchase photos with the Easter Bunny, trackless train rides, bounce house visits, food, and beverage. Caricature, air brush, and balloon artists will also be in attendance. Bring your own basket!

HUNT

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

derby

The Plant City Parks and Recreation Department kicks off their 17th season of Youth Fishing Derbies on Saturday, March 23. Thanks to Landshark Charters, the event is free for children ages 5 through 15 and will occur at the Plant City Stadium back parking lot off Gordon Food Service Dr. Registration will begin at 7:30 a.m., the competition will take place from 8:30 to 11 a.m., with an awards ceremony at 11:15 a.m. Pre-registration is accepted until Thursday, March 21 at 5 p.m. at the Recreation Administration offices. Contact Deborah Haldane at dhaldane@plantcitygov.com or 813-659-4200 ext. 4302 for more information.

Blueberry Festival Pageant The first annual Miss Blueberry Pageant will take place on April 13 at Keel and Curley Winery, starting at 1 p.m with the Mini Blueberry Bud (ages 3-4) and the Tiny Miss (5-6) divisions, followed by Little Miss (7-9), Pre-Teen (10-12), Junior (13-14), Teen (16-18), and Miss (19-23). Contestants will be judged on poise, grace, natural beauty, and overall appearance during opening introduction, evening gown, and Q&A rounds. Winners of each age group will be formally introduced at the Blueberry Festival on April 27 at 5 p.m. Proceeds from the Blueberry Pageant support Morgan Pierce’s foundation for childhood cancer awareness. Morgan, an honorary Blueberry Queen, is a fourth grader at Walden Lake Elementary School who suffers from neuroblastoma. For more information, contact Brigittia Long at 813-393-7442.

Wild Ride A Celebration of Sunshine State American Mustang and Burro Association’s First Successful Year RJ Farms | 2 to 6 p.m. 10130 Ramblin Rd., Lithia Free Admission to this family event full of food, prizes, games, demos, guest speakers, and vendors. Contact Jennie Sloan at 813-463-3298 for more information or visit ssambafl.com.

d & e » event calendar

MARCH

saturday

Strawberry Classic Car Show Historic Downtown Plant City | 4 to 8 p.m. For more information contact the Chamber of Commerce 813-754-3707

friday

Meet the Easter Bunny Red Caboose at 908 Joe McIntosh Rd. | 2 to 6 p.m. All children will receive a free photo and treat. Other Easter-themed activities will also be on hand. Event is in co-operation with the Operation Lifesaver Highway-Rail Grade Crossing Safety Program. Night at the Popera Presented by Plant City Entertainment, Inc. PCE Theater | 8 p.m. 101 N. Thomas St. For more information, call 813-789-7892, visit plantcityentertainment.com, or email bathseeba@hotmail.com.

saturday

Sole Sisters 5K and Stroller Roll Walden Lake 5K start time: 8 a.m. Stroller Roll start time 8:15 a.m. Registration is $25 Register at solesisters5k@yahoo.com. All proceeds go to the American Cancer Society in support of the Sole Sisters Relay for Life Team. 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 813-659-1240 or 813-659-1098 GFWC Woman’s Club Barnyard Bash Scholarship Fundraiser The Farm at 5230 Berry Patch Rd. | 4 to 9 p.m. Live music by Irv Potter, line dancing demos and lessons, cakewalk, Western costume contest, cow pie throwing, horseshoes, and other games. Advanced ticket sales only. Call 813-752-7905 for more information. Little Miss Plant City Plant City High School Auditorium | 6 p.m. Tickets are $10, with proceeds going toward the Plant City Junior Woman’s Club annual Shoe Project. 7th Annual Egg Drop Festival Plant City First Baptist Church | 11:45 a.m. Located at FBC South Campus on Hwy 39 across from Sparkman Rd. Over 50,000 eggs for children age 2 to 5th grade. Moonbounce, hot dogs, drinks, clowns, balloons, face painting and much more. Register online at fbcpc.com and call 813-752-4104 for more information

wednesday

ABWA Leadership Conference: LinkedIn Using the 10 Commandments of Social Networking Plant City Elks Lodge | 8 to 10 a.m. 1501 N. Alexander St. Learn from entrepreneur Tiffanie Kellog on how to network more effectively on LinkedIn and make more money in less time. Register at http://bit.ly/Y2tawX Cost is $47 per person For more info contact Rebecca Williams at 813-376-4825

saturday

Plant City Bike Fest Historic Downtown Plant City | 5 p.m. For more information contact the Chamber of Commerce 813.754.3707

friday

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.

Walk for Life 10 a.m. Sponsored by Preganacy Care Center of Plant City Meet behind City Hall For more information, contact Darlene Davis at 813759-0886 or email ddavis@pccpc.net.

recurring events

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.

april

Relay for Life Plant City High School | 6 p.m. Contact Cathy Vallianatos at cathy.vallianatos@cancer. org or 813-685-0670. Register or donate online at relayforlife.org/plantcityfl

24th Annual City Wide Easter Egg Hunt Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex | 10 a.m. 2602 E. Cherry St. Free Easter Egg Hunt for children ages 3-11. Non-refundable Bunny Dollars available for $1 each to purchase photos with the Easter Bunny, trackless train rides, bounce house visits, food, and beverage. Caricature, air brush, and balloon artists will be in attendance.

sunday

Easter Sunday Easter Eggstravaganza The Cynergy Church | 1 to 5 p.m. 610 N. Alexander St. Free egg hunt, bounce houses, cotton candy, snow cones, hamburgers, and hot dogs. Free giveaways include TVs, iPods, and more! Cash prizes. Call 813-708-2783 for more information.

friday

april

Plant City Rotary’s Wild Game Cookout Florida Strawberry Festival Grounds | 6 to 10 p.m. Come for the great food, stay for the entertainment and prize opportunities. For ticket information contact Tim Kip at 813-7592637 or rotarywildgamecookout@verizon.ne

april

saturday

1st Annual Charity Golf Tournament Sponsored by the GFWC Plant City Junior Woman’s Club Walden Lake Golf & Country Club 8 a.m. shotgun start Competition includes a putting contest, closest to pin, longest drive, 50/50 cash prize, and raffle prizes. All proceeds benefit the Plant City Shoe Project For more information contact Tyger Jimenez at tigerjimenez@gmail.com.

foCUS Magazine Plant City march 2013

Independent Retirement Living ...and so Much More

Hunter’s Creek Retirement Community Nothing is so beautiful as spring... Nothing is so welcoming as... Hunter’s Creek Retirement Community.

62+ Active Independent Living Community • Retirement Living at its Finest

A Leasing Community • 2 and 3 Bedroom Villas • Gated Entry • Paved Walking Paths • Fitness Center • Swimming Pool • Spacious Master Suites • Single Car Garage • Covered Courtyard Area

Model Home Hours

Monday – Friday 10am – 5pm Saturday by Appointment

100

march 2013 focusplantcity.com

• Zero Entry Shower, Equipped with Handrails • Roomy Walk-In Closets • Full Appliance Package, Including Washer and Dryer • Wheelchair Accessible • Pets Welcome • Assisted Living Facility Coming Soon 784 Hunter Creek Drive Plant City, Fl 33563

From I-4 and Alexander St. Exit 21 Alexander St. South Turn left onto W. Grant St. W. Grand St. go 1/2 mile turn right on Hunter St. Community on left.

www.gracemanorhunterscreek.com

813.752.9300

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

R O C E E L A Y S E M E E S T WR O H A I N E G N O N G R I C E A A L A B L G G R E A A A G S C A E P D S E D A I R A N G E A T H S M I T S

L O G S U R G E S B E R G

C R E E H O N E E G G R E E R S T A E E L S A C T N R A L T U R I E S A S R P S I V E M E A I B E R V E R E D M S O E G G S M O T E P O S S

P A L A T E E N F O L D N I L D Y E

S I A K O B G I O U U N I T T S S T A Y O N M O V A K I A M E L L A G L GW Y C H D E E O P A R E T T O R I O OW M I N E S T A H O R

E D N A B A D L Y T E E N Y M E S S

Eggs for Easter

Welcome spring

and order your Easter table bouquets, or just brighten your family and friends day with all the beatiful spring ﬂowers

Spring Bouquet

813-754-1212 116 W. Alsobrook Street Plant City, Fl 33563

d & e » crossword

eggs for easter Created by Calvin R. and Jackie Mathews by Calvin R. & Jackie Mathews

EGGS FOR EASTER

ACROSS 1. Zane or Lady Jane 5. Late singer Jim 10. Believer’s prayer 15. Thailand, once 19. Furor 20. Get and pass on 21. Sweet stuff 22. __ Bryant 23. “Beg your pardon,” on Easter? 25. Remarkably bad, on Easter? 27. Astronaut Grissom 28. Reclines 29. Oktoberfest fare 30. Class credits 31. Breakfast side 33. Pull away violently 35. Aardvark’s lunch 37. Nearly treeless plain 39. Busy airport 40. Whitney and Wallach 41. Tit for __ 44. Prefix with sphere 45. Imprecisely, on Easter? 47. Half and half 48. Despicable violation 49. Privy to 50. 2nd Amendment backer: abbr. 51. Shift 52. G.I. entertainers 53. Farming, on Easter? 58. __ to; like 59. Eur. language 60. Ending for hero or nectar 61. First of twelve 62. To wit 64. __ Domini 66. Seabed growths 67. National symbol 68. Surface layer 70. More qualified 71. Eur. nation 72. Winner in 2004, for short 75. Concept 76. In a pushy way, on Easter? 80. Half a dance? 81. Hilarious person 82. Motorists’ org. 83. Hoover Dam lake 84. Owner’s paper 85. Needle: pref. 86. Easter sword? 91. Ring stone 92. TV’s Columbo & others: abbr. 93. Nest noise 94. Capital city

95. 97. 98. 99. 100. 103. 104. 105. 108. 111. 114. 115. 116. 117. 118. 119. 120. 121.

Attractive Morsels Did a lawn chore Native New Zealander Farewells Snootiness Unaccompanied Have bills Trade, on Easter? Scrutinized, on Easter? God: Lat. Tub activities Polyphonic music form Kubrick, to friends Explosive site Actor Jimmy Outlaw hunters Bar Mitzvah dance

DOWN 1. Dharma’s man 2. Spaghetti topper 3. Offhand, on Easter? 4. “Certainly!” 5. Actor Tom 6. Adjust an alarm clock 7. Cheers 8. Machine wheel 9. Peeper 10. Swiss and American 11. Synonym specialist 12. Choo-choo driver: abbr. 13. Poet’s contraction 1

19 24

28 31

35 40

57 62

81 86

106

107

84 91 95

103 110

102

70 76

50 54

15 22

101

100

34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. 45. 46. 49.

69. Decree 70. Gave __; was shocked 71. Juicy fruit 73. __ bread 74. In an awful way 77. Measuring instruments: var. 78. Fix firmly: var. 79. Go off course 84. Go-getter 86. Like the National Cathedral: abbr. 87. Acquire 88. Speech 89. Hearth stack 90. Contraction 95. Taste 96. Den, for one 97. __ nova 98. Not-too-big card 99. Red Sea divider 100. Relinquish 101. “By the Time __ to Phoenix” 102. Son of __ 103. “Nay” sayer 104. Cpl.’s superiors 106. Sport 107. Millay, for one 109. Initials for Stowe 110. Milne’s monogram 111. Hirohito, e.g.: abbr. 112. Sticky stuff 113. Suffix for fool & imp

51. 53. 54. 55. 56. 57. 63. 65. 66. 68.

Change shades Scrapes, as a knee What MI means Touch Jumble Show approval Bold Large piece of ice Mayberry resident “__ Fall in Love”; 1962 hit by the Lettermen Cleaning item Priest’s place Zip __ off; disregard Rib __ about; around Earth tones Resented, on Easter? Iron block Not very big “Picnic” playwright Opening bets Give the cold shoulder to Family member German article Spanish street Hankerings Perjurers Wrap up Supporter In order Bric-__ Like the flu

14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 24. 26. 29. 32. 33.

104 111

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113 117

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march 2013 focusplantcity.com

“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.

Go to PlantCityEmergency.org to watch the full story. BC1300287-0213

Choose the Emergency Center at South Florida Baptist Hospital. For more information:

(813) 443-3018

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.

FULL SYNTHETIC OIL CHANGE & TIRE ROTATION

59.95 *Most cars & Trucks

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 03/31/2013

WORKS PACKAGE

39.95 **$10 Mail-In Rebate

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 03/31/2013

813-757-6429 2000 East Baker Street Plant City, FL 33563 Service Hours Mon-Fri 7am-7pm Sat 7am-3pm

WILD CARD SPECIAL

10% OFF ANY SERVICE UP TO $150

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 03/31/2013

ALL MAKES AND MODELS! WE’LL BEAT YOUR BEST TIRE PRICE GUARANTEED! 104

march 2013 focusplantcity.com