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See why everyone is driving to Bartow to buy a car from TOM EDWARDS.
Photography by Anthony Sassano
(L to R) Fred Johnson, Kimball Wetherington, Nate Davis, Jim Scott and Joe Keel
18-42 Local
The Florida Strawberry Festival wrapped up its latest season on Sunday, March 10. Thousands of visitors from around the country enjoyed some delicious strawberry shortcake, world-class musical entertainment, and fun-filled events right in our hometown. From the Swine Show to the Baby Contest, FOCUS Magazine was documenting what was happening. Read our Strawberry Festival stories here and be sure to visit focusplantcity.com for our FOCUSTV video highlights.
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Marchy 2014 | Volume 13 Issue 03 | focusplantcity.com
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Business: Call the Doc
Sick on a Friday night and can’t get in touch with your primary care physician? No problem when you are a member of the Call the Doc services. Through this 24/7 teleconsultation program, board-certified doctors can diagnose your common ailments and provide a prescription in just minutes. Call the Doc is an affordable and effective complement to your current health care plan. Register today for its awesome benefits.
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Dining:
Feature: RCA Winners
Plant City may be known nationwide for its succulent winter strawberries, but the community is also known for its top-of-theline dining establishments. For the 12th straight year, FOCUS Magazine held its Reader’s Choice Awards where you picked your favorite restaurants among several categories. Find out the winners in this issue!
Smokin’ Aces BBQ
Warning: If you haven’t discovered the gourmet meals at Smokin’ Aces BBQ yet, you’ll be headed there soon. Word of mouth and Facebook posts from visitors to the Keel & Curley Winery have boosted the family’s business into what has quickly become the talk of the town for foodies who insist on fresh. Fantastic food prepared fresh by the joyful Jordans—prepare to be impressed.
See Also: Talk of the Town - 14 Real Estate - 68-77 Spotlight: Plant City Athlete of the Month - 80 Business Leaders Seniors of the Month - 85 Talk to anyone in this community and they’ll Derek Maul Column - 87 tell you that Plant City is a great place to live, Candy’s Corner - 88 and FOCUS Magazine believes it starts with Wanda’s Words of Wisdom - 91 our homegrown businesses and the hardworking Recipe of the Month - 99 people behind them. In this month’s spotlight, we interviewed several local business leaders Event Calendar - 106 on how they’ve been able to grow successful Crossword - 109
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companies in this small town we call home.
FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MARCH 2014
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MARCH 2014 focusplantcity.com
LETTER FROM THE
PUBLISHER Wow! Was this year’s Florida Strawberry attribute family, community service and time Festival® a great one, or what? invested well for their successes. They’ve also offered great suggestions for up-and-coming Over and over, as we prepared the three daily entrepreneurs. shows for Focus TV, we heard comments like: The “Florida’s Best Family Recipe” followup • “I can’t believe how much free issue would not be complete without stories entertainment we’ve been able of our children at work in competitions, to see!” parades, livestock sales and charitable causes. • “How do hey keep the Festival The younger generations seem to be enjoying grounds looking so clean? the can-do spirit that makes communities of • “We love the hometown eastern Hillsborough County such great places feel of this Festival. We come to live. every year from….” (far away places; you name the state and No matter the age or life-stage, generous people even countries like Canada, are always the best ingredients in the recipe! England, Japan, etc.) Thank you so much for sharing your “likes,” Naturally, we’ve been eager comments and kind words with us this month to share coverage of the on our Facebook page, too! You will never fully Festival stories this month, understand how much you encourage us to and along with that the continue on this mission to “Focus” on you— winners of our annual our supporters and advertisers. Reader’s Choice Awards. This community of “friends” is truly one of the Please be sure to congratulate best in the world! them and of course, patronize their businesses. And when we considered all the community effort of so many willing volunteers and community leaders to make the Festival and business promotion happen each year, we thought it would be fun to feature some successful business owners. You’ll be inspired to read how they Warmest Regards, Mike Floyd
“The hit comedy with four paws”
April 4-13, 2014 863 603 PLAY (7529) lakelandcommunitytheatre.com
Partially sponsored by
Lake Mirror Theatre 121 S. Lake Ave Lakeland FL 33801
CREDITS Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information. Floyd Publications, Inc. 702 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563 Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990 www.focusplantcity.com Standards of accuracy: The goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-warming stories that are accurate from the start. Being human, however, we sometimes make mistakes. Please forgive us. So if you notice anything that is incorrect, then please do not hesitate to contact the editorial department and inform it about the fact error. To do so, call (813) 707-8783 or e-mail editorial@floydpublications.com. The staff will fix the error in a timely manner. FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants and many local venues. Advertisers warrant and represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. Focus Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All letters and their contents sent to Focus Magazine become the sole property of Floyd Publications, Inc and may be reproduced thereof. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Floyd Publications, Inc. Use or duplication of material used in this publication is prohibited without approved written consent from Floyd Publications, Inc.
Publisher Mike Floyd mike@floydpublications.com Office Manager Christina DoVale cdovale@floydpublications.com Editorial Director Amanda Deck editorial@floydpublications.com Sales Jennifer Chamberlain jchamberlain@floydpublications.com Christina DoVale cdovale@floydpublications.com Art Director Anthony Sassano asassano@floydpublications.com Distribution Tony DeVane Photographer Anthony Sassano Photography Staff Writers Cheryl Johnston | Brian West Heather Davis | Joe Bowles | Amanda Deck Deana Garrison | Darcie Jarrett | Taylor Thomas Charlotte Thompson Contributors Gil Gott | Derek Maul | Jo-An Lusk Nate Davis | Candy Owens | Natalie Sweet Gail Jones
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Talk Town of the
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Strawberry Mashed Potato Pie eating contest winner, Cory Davis, receiving his trophy and cash prize. Photo courtesy of FOCUSTV
STARCH YOUR ENGINES THE FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL MASHED POTATO EATING CONTEST
F
lorida’s Best Family Recipe was the theme of the 2014 Florida Strawberry Festival, and what better way to entertain its guests than yet another eating contest. On March 7, 2014, the food of choice was a Strawberry Mashed Potato Pie.
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MARCH 2014 focusplantcity.com
Article by Victoria Garren
some so quickly it didn’t even seem they were chewing. Audience members started cheering for their favorite contestant, encouraging them to eat faster and faster. At the two minute mark spoons went down, and that is where it got interesting. Most competitors used their hands, although there were a few who thought smashing Guests began to crowd under the Stingray their face into the plate was a more efficient Chevrolet Entertainment Tent as eight technique. brave contestants made their way up to the stage, put on their red aprons, and took a This is the point where the competition seat alongside their opponents. A plate split, a few had given up, some were still filled with 2.25 pounds of mashed potatoes, putting in all the effort they had, and there provided by Pickle Barrel Sirloin Tips, was were two coming down the home stretch placed in front of them one by one. On the fighting for the win. It was neck and neck, top of each mound of potatoes, a chocolate and time was called. The official judge began covered strawberry. to look over all the plates and the little that still remained on them, then the scale was The rules were then announced: 1. Your brought out for the final weighing process. mini spoon may only be used for the first two minutes 2. After two minutes you can With only two bites left uneaten, Cory use whatever method you would like to eat Davis was declared the winner. your potatoes 3. Time will be called after four minutes. “It was my first time coming down here so, I figured why not,” Cory said. As the winner Competitors were instructed to bite into of the Strawberry Mashed Potato Pie the strawberry last, as a way to signal their eating contest, he won a trophy and $100. “I completion of the contest. told my friends if I won I would take them to dinner, so that’s what I’m going to do,” The festival’s mascot Mr. Berry led the Cory said. countdown with the audience...3, 2, 1, EAT! The festival also held a Fried Corn on the Cob, Super Mega Corndog, and Strawberry All the contestants began shoveling piles Shortcake eating contest. of mashed potato into their mouths,
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3RD ANNUAL
COCKSTOCK MUSIC FEST V Article by Cheryl Johnston
ietnam veteran Ed Hancock has always loved music, which probably explains why he’s uploaded 14,049 songs into his iPod.
“The music is incredible,” was a comment heard over and over throughout the “camp.” The bands performed Southern rock classics and other standard ‘60s-‘90s favorites for the appreciative attendees.
“We’re never quite sure how many to with the smell of gourmet burgers, hot dogs expect,” explained Ed, “because people and chicken sizzling on the grill. don’t always RSVP, But this is our biggest and best yet.” Essentially, the draw and the highlight of the gathering was the incredibly smooth The relaxing family affair filled with music. conversation and laughter was perfect for all ages. Children passed footballs and As the lyrics to a favorite Eagles hit would baseballs with the men, while couples tossed have described it, Cockstock was definitely beanbags at the cornhole ramps. At around “a peaceful, easy feelin’” kind of fun. dusk, the cooks in the group, both male and female, spruced up the atmosphere’s aroma
“I cover all genres except opera…love reggae, Southern rock, and mainly the Band leader Ruben Rey described their older country songs, but I honestly like work as “Really, it’s a two way street,” everything,” he explained. explaining, “It’s always great to know that people enjoy what we do…and always He also loves the atmosphere good music rewarding to play for good people that creates and the memories it recalls when make us feel comfortable.” lots of friends and family gather. This is why he established The Cockstock Music Fest in Hancock and his wife Tina host Cockstock April, 2010. The idea was birthed in May of in Wimauma on the three-acre property 2009 when he hosted a party with music for owned by his daughter and son-in-law, all of his Vietnam unit. Seventy men and Janese and Scot Barbon. “I actually consider their wives came for the weekend campout. this our 4th annual event, because I think our wedding here was like another music Many returned in November of 2010 when fest,” Ed explained. Hancock married Tina Shoemaker in an outdoor ceremony. The second annual Friends received invitations to the 3rd Cockstock was held in March, 2012. annual “tailgate type cookout” through a The 2013 plans were postponed for Ed’s Facebook event page. The invite suggested necessary chemo treatments for throat everyone “Bring food, drink, chairs, motor cancer, which developed from Agent homes, campers, pop-ups, tents, etc., and Orange-related complications. “bring along any friends you may want.” The third annual gathering drew approximately 200 folks on February 22, 2014, the largest crowd yet. Two great bands entertained from 2:00 until 10:30 p.m: The Peacemakers, a group of four Plant City High School students, and the older, more experienced gentlemen of Ruben Rey and the Undercover Band.
Those so inclined are also welcome to “stay the night” but are reminded there are “no water or electric hookups.” A number of families took their hosts up on this offer, including Ed’s Vietnam buddy Lonny Branch and his wife Deneice, who traveled from War, West Virginia to attend. Ed and Tina Hancock recently hosted their 3rd annual Cockstock Music Fest for family, friends and friends of friends.
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LOCAL
FESTIVAL FINE
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John Hardin, humanities professor at Hillsborough Community and Jerry Crawford, a retired gallery owner from Dallas who remains active in the industry, served as judges and were especially complimentary of this year’s entries. Overall, $3,800 and more than 50 placement ribbons were awarded to the winners.
The non-profit EHAG, as the Guild is affectionately known, is a welcoming professionals to six-year-old children. organization of artists, art lovers, and Generally, people are amazed at the talent patrons who embrace all media, ages and they discover here.” stages of development. Whether you are a professional or a hobbyist, EHAG invites Another interesting change in 2014 is the new members and fresh ideas. addition of the “Business Leaders Choice Awards.” The fifteen sponsors each selected To learn more, request information through an artwork that had not already received a P.O. Box 3055, Plant City, FL 33564judge’s award and those pieces now display 3055, visit online at ehagfinearts.com, or a special ribbon. find “Ehag Fine-arts” on Facebook. Article by Cheryl Johnston
T
he Florida Strawberry Festival® organization made a beautiful adjustment for our local world of art this year. The annual Fine Art Show, hosted during the Festival by the East Hillsborough Art Guild, is now housed in the more centrally located Milton E. Hull Building, which until this year featured the Neighborhood Village handcraft and homecraft competition displays. With its coquina stone exterior, higher ceilings, tall windows and massive fireplace, the larger building provides more of a museum-like atmosphere. Visitors can easily follow the route through the various category divisions, so as not to miss a single piece on display. Needless to say, Guild members are thrilled and encouraged with their new and brighter space.
The show’s “enamored with art” chairperson, Debra Bryant, explained: “Everyone who visits the Festival should plan to see this exhibit of wonderful artwork from folks in six counties who Debra Bryant, chairperson of the 2014 EHAG Fine Arts Show at the Florida range in age and experience from adult Strawberry Festival, offered daily demonstrations of oil-painting techniques. Congratulations to the winners in each category: Best in Show Lois Staller Strawberry Theme Award Petera Semple Professional Oils 1st - Colleen Justin 2nd - Judy Strong 3rd - Sharon Burger 4th - Joanna Karpay Professional Acrylics 1st - Libit Jones 2nd - Evelyn Mendez Portuguez 3rd - Louann Watson 4th - M. Tiffany Gullage
Professional Watercolors 1st - Karin Stechschulte 2nd Doreen Donovan 3rd - Darla Wilhite 4th - Roxanne Tobiason Professional Graphics/Mixed 1st - Joyce Bugaiski 2nd - Jane Murray Lewis 3rd - Sheryl Unwin 4th - Eileen McHargue Amateur Oils 1st - Betty Sumner 2nd - Nicki Romberger 3rd - Elizabeth Corey 4th - Betty Martis Amateur Acrylics 1st - Susan Greer 2nd- Paula Noblitt 3rd - Carrie Horne
4th - Lynn Rattray Amateur Watercolors 1st - Diane Smeed 2nd - Sue Tihansky 3rd - Mary Buzza 4th - Kay Menzel Amateur Graphics/Mixed 1st - Donald Korte 2nd - Ronald Grote 3rd - Peggy Hart 4th - Anita Estrada Zorrilla Miniatures 1st - Angela Santos 2nd - Carlene Earl 3rd - Antoinette Gaynor 4th - Brigitte Mailahn Adult Sculptures 1st - Andreas Spikowski
2nd - Harry Day 3rd - Tony Mears 4th - Ira McEachem YOUTH Drawing/Painting Ages 15-17 1st - Rachel Carter 2nd - Caroline Wallace 3rd - James Bradley McInturff 4th - Melissa Harnage Ages 12-14 1st - Anna Dixon 2nd- Shania Boyer 3rd - Sarah Jones 4th - Pada Sandoval Ages 9-11 1st - Jessica Alepin 2nd - Katherine Alepin 3rd - Jessica Wilson 4th - Mitchell Voelker
Ages 6-8 1st - Nathan Gall 2nd - Zachary Renshaw 3rd - Carlos Moore 4th - Aryana Dileo Business Leader’s Choice Awards (alphabetical order) Barbara Carnicelli Nadine Cooley Ian Cooper Glynis Flower Michaela Messer Paula Noblitt Evelyn Mendez Portuguez Zachary Renshaw Petera Semple Judy Strong Joan Supkay Sheryl Unwin Kim Wells Chrys Wilson FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MARCH 2014
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PLAY BALL! FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION, PINECREST LITTLE LEAGUE KEEPS BRINGING Article PLAYERS HOME by Darcie Jarrett
A
s the sun began to set upon a gorgeous March day, Pinecrest Little League was just starting their festivities. On Saturday, March 1, the league held their opening ceremonies in recognition of its 46th year in operation. Players of the 2014 Spring Season all gathered on the freshly raked clay diamond as each participant prepared to cross home plate while their name resonated over the field’s P.A. system.
their children now do. “It is a big thing for me to have this [league],” said Jacobs, “to have somewhere so my son could play and I hope for somewhere for his son to come play.” Rice and Jacobs have also become heavily involved as they currently hold positions on the league’s board of directors. Robbie Rice and Scott Jacobs played ball at the fields when they were younger,
Jacob grew up at the ball fields – starting now serve on the league’s board. Photo by Darcie Jarrett in T-Ball and continuing throughout Big League. His parents even played in the think what sets us aside from other little run derby and food catered by Moe’s For some players, they are not the first organization and his Uncle helped with the leagues is that we’re family based. We have Southwest Grill. in their family to step out onto the well- construction of the fields upon its erection. several coaches who played for Pinecrest when they were little and are now coaching As the season opens, some encouraging manicured playing field, but rather the “This has been in our family for a very as their kids play as well. On and off the words from the legendary Babe Ruth: second, or even third generation. Robbie Rice and Scott Jacobs both have a long time,” shared Jacobs. “Pinecrest Little field we are family! We are here for the kids, “Never let the fear of striking out keep you from coming up to bat.” special place in their heart for the league. League will always be a part of the family.” to teach them but to have fun as well.” When they were younger, they both sat CSBPlantCityCommercialFinanceFocusAd:Layout 1 1/29/14 2:48 PM why Page 1 Activities included bouncy houses, dunk You smell that? Ah, Spring…bring on the Renee Rice, shares in the same dugouts and purchased “Big T-Ball Coordinator, tank, face painting, 50/50 drawing, home baseball! Chew” from the same concession stand she feels the league has had its longevity. “I
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LOCAL
BABY CONTEST AT THE STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
E
very year on the first Sunday of the Strawberry Festival, many gather around the Entertainment tent to watch the Baby Contest. It is so much fun to watch the diaper decoration contests, most handsome, most beautiful, and the ever entertaining diaper derby. To start the competition off with a fun blast, the diaper contest always does the trick. With different categories to enter, parents can decide how they want the diaper to be judged. Each parent entering their child decorates their diaper for the Strawberry Festival Theme, Funniest, Strawberry, or Cartoon categories. This year the parents displayed a huge amount of imagination and talent. Georgia Sue-Ann Hunter was thrilled with her diaper. Her dad, Dusty Hunter, held her up as she had a blast
Article by Deana Garrison riding in her strawberry themed, hot air balloon diaper. She was later announced as the winner of the Strawberry Diaper Contest. The Funniest Diaper Contest had many laughs when Mason Goff walked out wearing his “Happy, Happy, Happy” shirt and the back of his diaper all decked out with the face of one of the Duck Dynasty cast members. Yes, the long beard was a big hit. Mason Goff most definitely won that Prettiest Girl 13-15 months winner Taylor Delean Tagliarini. Photo by Christina DoVale category hands down. When the category of Prettiest Girl comes around, the stage gets crowded. Many parents bring their beautiful daughters on stage and the judges have the most difficult time making a decision. This part takes the longest to judge. They all look so sweet - dressed up and full of energy. Three different age groups comprise this category.
Decorated Diaper Strawberry Theme winner Georgia Sue-Ann Hunter. Photo by Christina DoVale
As the girls exit, next up the boys take the stage for Most Handsome. This competition is broken down into three age groups as well and the judges still have the most difficult job.
Overall Diaber Derby winner Lacie Ann Liebler. Photo by Christina DoVale
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When the judging of the good looks is over, it’s time for the action. A soft carpet is rolled out and with a start and finish line taped to the bottom. Each contestant is placed at the starting line in front of their family
2014 Florida Strawberry Festival Baby Contest Winners
(13-15 months) Taylor Delean Tagliarini; (16-18 months) Alicia Elaine Canchola
Decorated Diaper Contest: Strawberry Festival Theme Cade Michael Brock; Funniest Mason Wade Goff; Strawberry Theme Georgia Sue-Ann Hunter; Cartoon Riley Shaylee Geiger.
Handsome Boy: (6-9 months) Liam Alexander Franklin; (10-12 months) Lucas Barrett and Karson Morris; (13-15 months) Mason Wade Goff; (16-18 months) Braxton Reed Bailey
MARCH 2014 focusplantcity.com
Look Alike Twins: Ainsley Kate Bare and Adeline Lanie Bare Prettiest Girl: (6-9 months) Zameria Alonna Stewart; (10-12 months) Alyssa Paige Fletcher;
member while another family member waits on the other side of the finish line, making all kinds of noise and waving the baby’s favorite item. Sometimes this scares and other times it fascinates the children as they stop crawling and just sit and stare, wondering what in the world is going on. This year there were several that stopped to chat for a moment before they continue on. Either way, it is always entertaining.
Chubbiest Cheeks: Olivia Ann Grimes Diaper Derby: (6-8 months) Keegan Zayne TarHon (9-12 months) Lacie Ann Liebler Overall Diaper Derby Winner: Lacie Ann Liebler
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MARCH 2014 focusplantcity.com
LOCAL
BAYCARE’S SOUTH FLORIDA BAPTIST HOSPITAL UNDER NEW LEADERSHIP
KERR STEPS IN AS PRESIDENT Article by Brian West
S
outh Florida Baptist Hospital – its employees and patients, has been fortunate to have some great leaders. Recently, Steve Nierman, Chief Operating Officer, left SFBH to take the helm for Winter Haven Hospital, a recent acquisition of BayCare, which is the parent company of SFBH. Nierman’s departure created an opportunity, and after several months as interim President, Karen Kerr has officially been named President. At the time of Nierman’s departure, Kerr was Director of Patient Services, responsible for all the clinical and some operational departments in the hospital. As the result of a restructure, the former position of COO was retitled to President, although the responsibilities have not changed. Kerr has been with BayCare since it was founded in 1997. Kerr is looking forward to, “Continuing to work with the community of Plant City in my new role. I am fortunate to have had the support of our Board members, medical staff and community. Continuing
and expanding the hospitals presence in the community is important to me. The community is so supportive of the hospital and I appreciate that support. In return, we want to continue to look at programs and services that will allow the citizens of Plant City to have their healthcare needs provided in our community. I am proud of the quality services our hospital provides.” Kerr will lead the expansion of the surgery department. On March 4th, SFBH began construction that will add two additional operating rooms and support space to the facility. The larger rooms will better accommodate the more complex procedures they have been providing, such as robotic surgery cases. The number will increase, which will also assist with the increased case volume. Although Kerr has some big shoes to fill, she will continue to provide quality leadership to our local community hospital and continue to improve the services and the quality of care for its patients.
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LOCAL
A LOCAL MIRACLE
Less than three years later, she had noticed an extremely small amount of blood in her stool and mentioned it to her doctor. Due to her history, they decided to do a Article by Darcie Jarrett colonoscopy. “Never in a million years did anesthesia into the organ. She was then sent I think colon cancer,” Erwin shared. Test by ambulance to the hospital where she was results showed she had Stage 3B colon put on respirators. That night, she went cancer. into cardiac arrest and defibrillators (aka She proceeded to have surgery right away “paddles”) had to be used. where a large portion of her colon was Erwin started her recovery from the tragic removed. One of her doctor’s appointments night when oddly, and rarely, enough, her after her surgery revealed her colon had lung re-collapsed two days later. This time collapsed (again, very rare) and she had to she had to be rushed into emergency have an emergency procedure done right in surgery where the only anesthesiologist the doctor’s office. on duty was…guess who?!? What was supposed to be outpatient surgery turned The next seven months Erwin underwent chemo. Due to the intensity of this cancer, into a two week hospital stay. she was on 4 different kinds of chemo, A month after her initial surgery, she suffering an allergic to one. During her started, what she called, “evil chemo.” This treatment she acquired Shingles three consisted of six rounds of three types of times. Her doctors would not even let her chemo. After the six weeks, she immediately finish her treatment because she was so sick. started radiation. Because she had three types of cancer, she had to have a “boost” Her doctors sent her in for a scan to see how which radiated deeper into her skin. “I was the chemo was working and the result was black,” Erwin stated. “I had chunks of skin devastating. The cancer not only showed no change, but had metastasized into her falling off of me.” stomach resulting in Stage 4 stomach What was causing these cancers? Erwin cancer. had no family history of cancer and did not carry the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes most At this point, Moffitt told her they had commonly found in breast cancer patients. no surgical options for her. “The doctors “They [doctors] all think,” said Erwin, “that totally gave up,” said Erwin. They put her I actually carry a genetic anomaly that has on pathological care to buy her as much time as possible. not yet been discovered.”
ONE WOMAN’S CANCER FIGHT TO VICTORY
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ight years, four types of cancer, 13 surgeries (only one without complications), about 100 rounds of chemo and radiation…one person! Jennifer Erwin of Seffner is what a lot of people are calling nothing short of a miracle. She is a wife, mother of three, co-owner of a CPA Firm and only in her thirties. The first fight…Stage 2 skin cancer. Erwin found an abnormal looking mole and thought she should have it checked. The result was something no one ever wants to hear - cancer. She underwent two complicated surgeries, but, luckily, no chemo or radiation was needed. Three years later she felt a lump that just didn’t feel right and decided to see a doctor. The diagnosis - Stage 3 breast cancer. The most common type is hormone positive, which Erwin had, but also two other types as well – progesterone positive and HER-2 positive. Erwin’s surgeon was the Head of Breast Help at USF. “I loved my surgeon,” said Erwin. “He’s like my heart.” Less than a month after diagnosis was her first surgery. Erwin explained, “He [her surgeon] said I would be perfectly fine. He had hundreds of women do it [outpatient surgery], shocking, but I happen to be the one patient that it did not go so well for.” While being prepped for the operating room, an anesthesiologist had to perform a spinal tap. This procedure consisted of 8 shots in her spine. With the sixth shot she screamed. While being wheeled into the OR, Erwin told the anesthesiologist she couldn’t breathe and felt burning. “He literally said to me,” stressed Erwin, “’You just need to be quiet. You’re just going numb. You just have to deal with it.’” After surgery, Erwin just didn’t feel right. All she remembers are the nurses all running around and a table being wheeled up to her with a gold needle the size of a ruler and thickness of a pencil on it. Her lung had collapsed and they had to do an emergency procedure, right then and there, to reinflate her lung. The sixth shot which was so painful was due to her lung being punctured and the burning was the introduction of the
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Photos courtesy of Jennifer Erwin
Erwin’s mother-in-law would not take no for an answer and got to work searching. She came across Shands Cancer Center in Gainesville. Within a week she had her first appointment. “They took me off of chemo,” Erwin said. “They said if the cancer did not kill me that the chemo was going to. My body could not withstand any more chemo.” Not even a week later Shands called Erwin to tell her they had found a surgeon to perform her surgery and they wanted to see her the next day. Within three days she was in the OR. This latest surgery was just this past September and the only one where she did not experience complications. Then, it was time for another scan. Anxious and terrified, she went. The results turned out to be the best news she had received! “From the top of my head to my toes, not one sign of cancer!,” beamed Erwin. “One of my doctors called me in tears,” she shared. “He said ‘You have no idea. When you came to us this summer, your prognosis’, and I am quoting him, ‘was bleak’. They gave me two years max.” Erwin says today she feels amazing. She feels healthier and is even doing Cross Fit. She is a very religious person and feels her faith has helped her in her fight. Erwin’s advice to others: Be your own advocate, get a second, if not a third, opinion, and do your own research. The Bible verse she has held onto has been Timothy 1:7 – “For God hath not given us a spirit of fear; but of power, and of sound mind.”
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LOCAL
BABY PARADE
AT THE STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
T
Article by Deana Garrison
he Baby Parade at the Strawberry Festival is always held on the second Saturday of the Festival. Every year many gather to see the adorable little ones display their best costume, beauty, and floats. This year’s contest proved to be a fun filled event.
idea, I was totally shocked when she said it was her four-year-old daughter’s idea. Talk about an imagination. Lots of personality, beauty, charm, and imagination went into make this day a success and the judges had some difficult decisions in the competition was tough.
In the costume category, I have to say, I love it when I see a contestant in a costume that is extremely original and I know someone had to “think outside the box.” This year, one contestant in the four-year-old division donned a “paper doll” costume. When her mom was asked how she came up with the
The baby parade Queen, King, and court consists of the first place winners in the fouryear-old division. Those court members are: King Jayden McDaris; Queen Bailey Renae Keys; and court members Carson Hattaway, Maddox Eben, and Angel Jarvis
2014 Florida Strawberry Festival Baby Parade Winners One Year Old Division: Personality: 1st place, Kloee Hitchner 2nd place, Wilder Shierling 3rd place Scott Terrell Costume: 1st place, Eason Beers 2nd place, Ava Bikowski 3rd place, Catalina Villanueva Float: 1st place, Jackson Davenport 2nd place, Cade Brock 3rd place, Remington Wright Handsome: 1st place, Frank Simmons D’amico 2nd place, Scott Terral 3rd place, Remington Wright Beautiful: 1st place, Addisyn Wise 2nd place, Presley Hay 3rd place, Sutton Duncan Two Year Old Division: Personality: 1st place, Jayden Rios; 2nd place, Rylie Morris 3rd place, Ryder Ennis Costume: 1st place, Callie Pelham; 2nd place, Tucker Boyd; 3rd place, Julie Guerra Float: 1st place, JayCee Powelczyk 2nd place, Everett DelValle 3rd place, Maddox Sewell Handsome: 1st place, Braxton Warner 2nd place, Easton Wayne Goff 3rd place, Caden Roberts Beautiful: 1st place, Abbigail Benitez 2nd place, Rylie Morris 3rd place, Alaina Jones
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Three Year Old Division: Personality: 1st place, Avalynn Mclellan 2nd place, Dillon Brewington 3rd place, Deacon Rosa Costume: 1st place, Annslea Woody 2nd place, Dayden VanCamp 3rd place, Isabella Pippin Float: 1st place,Cody McDowell Handsome: 1st place, Deacon Rosa 2nd place, Luke Drawdy 3rd place, Beautiful: 1st place, Astin Hallman 2nd place, Julia Switch 3rd place, Aubrey Duncan Four Year Old Division: Personality: 1st place, Maddox Eben 2nd place, Addison Inzerillo 3rd place, Isabella Rose Smith Costume: 1st place, Angel Jarvis 2nd place, Alayna Glisson 3rd place, Jackson Sturgis Float: 1st place, Carson Hattaway 2nd place, Annie All 3rd place, Gage Knowles Handsome: 1st place,Jayden McDaris 2nd place, Levi Newman 3rd place, Trey O’Brien Beautiful: 1st place, Bailey Renae Keys 2nd place, Amari Jackson 3rd place, Audra Helms
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LOCAL
2014 STEER SHOW Article by Deana Garrison
O
nce again the Florida Strawberry Festival’s CF Industries Youth Steer Show and Sale held at the Patterson Co. Livestock Arena in the Grimes Family Agricultural Center was a huge success. This year, Clay Joyner exhibited the Overall Grand Champion Steer and Shannon Gill exhibited the Overall Reserve Grand Champion Steer.
Wesley, also showed animals in his younger years and won Grand Champion with his Swine in 1989. Clay’s sister Aly, a senior at Strawberry Crest has shown since she was eight as well.
Very active in FFA, Clay is also the President of his Chapter. He competes in many CDEs such as Parliamentary Procedure, Forestry, public speaking, and Joyner is a 10th grade FFA member at OH Demos. He was on the state winning Strawberry Crest High School. Since he OCC and Parliamentary Procedure team was eight years-old he has shown plants, while at Tomlin Middle. sheep, pigs, and this year makes his second steer show. Showing plants and animals After judge Fred Rayfield congratulated seems to run in the family. His father, him for winning the Grand Champion title, Clay reflected, “Well, it’s not often that you have a high quality steer such as this one. I knew I had a chance, which probably raised the pressure and made me more nervous. I know from past experience that as soon as the judge finishes talking, he usually goes and selects the winner. He walked around all three steers and my heart was beating faster than ever. He stuck his hand out and my whole year flashed back through my head. I was excited and it was good to know Lightweight Division: that all of my work paid off.” Grand, Justin Stallard Reserve Grand, Mylie Feaster Pam Walden, the Supervisor of Agribusiness
2014 Florida Strawberry Festival Steer Show Grand and Reserve Grand Champions
Heavyweight Division: Grand, Nathan Claunch Reserve Grand, Margaret Holt
for Hillsborough County Schools said, “Both the Swine and Steer Shows and Sales were extremely successful this year. We are very proud of all the exhibitors for their fine projects. It was evident that they had worked hard and that they also took time to contact their buyers.”
First Place Winners In Each Class: Jacob Thornton, Justin Stallard, Mylie Feaster, Gregory Berrios, Anna Conrad, Shannon Gill, Clay Joyner, Katie Johnson, Nathan Claunch, and Margaret Holt.
This year proved to be a big success in the agricultural building. It is great to see so many youth and parents working together on a project that will not only build memories for our youth in agriculture, but will build skills for their future as well.
Middleweight Division: Grand, Clay Joyner Reserve Grand, Shannon Gill
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LOCAL
2014 SWINE SHOW/SALE
AT THE STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
T
he Swine Show was held in the Grimes Family Agricultural Center during the Strawberry Festival. This event usually draws a crowd to watch many Hillsborough County FFA and 4-H members show their swine that they’ve worked so hard with throughout the year for this special day. As the judge, Darren Rayburg, looked carefully at each of the 76 swine, putting them in order by class, he eventually came to a final decision on Grand and Reserve Grand Champions. This year’s Grand Champion pig was exhibited by Cole Hanson. Hanson attends Turkey Creek Middle School and is an active member of the FFA Chapter. To be
Article by Deana Garrison
able to purchase a swine to be in the show, the exhibitor has to attend a drawing and actually be selected in order to participate. Hanson tried five years in a row, but his number was never pulled to show until this year. He realized the wait was well worth it when it was announced he had the Grand Champion Swine. The Reserve Grand Champion swine was exhibited by Zachary Bozeman. Bozeman is also an active member of Turkey Creek FFA and has been showing swine for four years. He was very excited to win Reserve Grand Champion. Having a winning pig is nothing new for him. He had the Grand Champion pig at the Greater Hillsborough
County Fair last fall. Bozeman obviously knows what he is doing and does it well. He sets his goals and works hard to achieve them. Bozeman said, “It was fun competing against my classmates. I had a goal to meet, by winning at the County Fair and Strawberry Festival, and I did that.” Of the nine classes entered in the show, the first place winners in each were: Rylee Vanstonder, Colton Stubbs, Colten Drawdy, Jenna Keely, Haley Zvirblis, Cailey Lord, Cole Hanson, Rachel Carter, and Justin Cain. Once the judging is over, some exhibitors are called back for a showmanship competition based on how well they showed their swine. The winners for showmanship were: Senior Division: First, Rachel Carter; Second, Colton Stubbs; Third, Michael Nading. Intermediate division: First, Tanner Ashley; Second, Reagan Messick; Third, Carlos Curnow II.
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Junior division: First, Emma Futch; Second, Austin Holcomb; Third, Marissa Zolna. General Manager Paul Davis is always so pleased with the local people and businesses that show support for the exhibitors. This year, the Grand Champion sold for $13.50 per pound to Astin Farms and the Reserve Grand Champion sold for $13.40 to Controls and Weighing Systems. All exhibitors earned at least six dollars per pound for their swine. The emcee of the shows, Ray Clark, was also very impressed with the record breaking sale. He is always thrilled and amazed at how well local businesses support our young FFA and 4-H members. He enjoys volunteering every year to see the familiar faces. He stated, “It was a fun-filled night with a chance to spend a little time with many former students and friends.”
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LOCAL
STRAWBERRY CREST COED CHEER TEAM
ACHIEVES HIGH RECOGNITION Article by Deana Garrison
C
heerleading is definitely a sport requiring a great deal of skill. To synchronize all movements, perform flawless flips, jump with pointed toes, build pyramids without falling, and keep the team spirit high takes a great deal of energy, skill, and confidence. When competing before judges, the pressure increases. But, Strawberry Crest Coed Cheer Team doesn’t crack under pressure. In fact, they give it 110%. Head Coach Loveny Rivas and assistant coach, Chelsea Martin have truly enjoyed coaching the dedicated team this year as they led them to Championships. SCHS won the Western Conference competing against 26 other high schools in Hillsborough County. They not only took the first place trophy, they won by 45 points, which says a lot about their team…THEY ARE AWESOME! They didn’t stop there. This dedicated Cheer Team went on to compete in the FHSAA Region competition and took the first place trophy once again. This time they were the top team of nine total.
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When they reached FHSAA State Competition, they placed second. Being in the top 2 in the state is incredible. The UCA Nationals which is held at the Walt Disney World Resort was next on their list. This competition is the largest cheer competition for high school teams and was
... working together as a team and not giving up has truly been a major drive to help this team reach their ultimate goals.
This isn’t a team that has been working together for years. In this rebuilding season there were eight freshman and three members with no prior cheerleading experience. So teamwork and not giving SCHS’s first time at the Walt Disney World up has truly been a major drive to help this competition. So taking fifth place out of 36 group reach their ultimate goals. teams is a great honor. SC COED was the only team from Hillsborough County that Strawberry Crest is very proud of their entered and the only team in the Tampa Cheer Team and have every right to be. To Bay/ St Pete Area to even place. The UCA achieve all of this in one year is unbelievable Nationals will air on ESPN on 3/23/14 at but yet they made it look so easy. We at 3:30 pm and 4/19 at 1:30 pm. Make sure FOCUS Magazine congratulate you SCHS you watch to see how well they performed. Coed Cheer Team on your great success!
FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MARCH 2014
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LOCAL
Meet The Peacemakers: (L-R) bass guitarist Jordan Gude, performing lead vocals/rhythm guitar- Colton Conrad, lead guitarist Ben Luchka, and drummer Jesse Butterworth.
BRINGIN’ IT BACK
THE PEACEMAKERS
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oung people who discover their passion early have a distinct advantage in life. Such is the case of the four local Plant City High School friends who make music together in a band called “The Peacemakers.” The group is comprised of senior Ben Luchka, 18, senior Colton Conrad, 17, junior Jordan Gude, 16, and sophomore Jesse Butterworth, 17. They practice their “modern Southern rock with country influence” sound at least two nights each week and more when necessary for bookings. To date their music has been well received at venues such as O’Brien’s Pub, Rail Ale Pub (formerly Big Dogs Patio), the Fox Squirrel Corn Maze and the Hillsborough County Fair. On the near horizon is a possible appearance at Boots N Buckles Saloon in Lakeland…not bad when you consider the musicians are still only secondary school students.
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Article by Cheryl Johnston Luchka, who plays lead guitar, credits his family and in particular his mother, Amy Carpenter, and his musician brother Casey Stidham, for his love of music in general. He learned the basics from his neighbor Peter Sundic and enjoyed Guitar Hero for fun. He and Conrad have been playing together for almost four years now, with their idea to form a band becoming a reality about a year ago. Conrad sings lead vocals and plays rhythm guitar. He developed his skill through a few lessons and some teaching from Ben and credits his neighbor, Jesse Carr, for encouragement. Both plan to attend college locally in order to continue working with the band. Gude is a self-taught bass guitarist who plays piano and is learning fiddle as well. He credits his grandmother, June Johnson of Brooksville, for the motivation and encouragement to pursue music.
Butterworth learned to play drums through Rock Band video games and at Marshall Middle School, where he performed on the drumline.
“Yes,” added Conrad, “we’re just trying to add our own touches to classic Southern rock to make it a little more modern. We really like the hard-driving sounds.”
The four friends now have the strong support of their families because they’ve seen audiences respond so positively to the band’s sound.
The Peacemakers want their music to bring a little joy to their audiences. Gude especially likes “to see people have fun because of something I’m doing.” Luchka loves the “confidence boost” an appreciative audience provides and Conrad calls their successful appearances “a high, like an addiction.” Butterworth simply likes “making people happy.”
“They’ve seen how serious we are about what we are trying to accomplish, so they have more confidence in our ability to make something of it,” said Conrad. “And Ben’s grandfather, Carl Carpenter, just invested some money for a new sound system, which Ultimately, The Peacemakers hope their sounds and teamwork will be a continued was a huge help.” source of income and connections exposing All four expressed appreciation for the them to an even wider audience. assistance of Dale Johnston, who plays in the Weigh Out Band. “He has really mentored “We’re dreaming big,” explained Luchka. us through advice and by coordinating our “We’d like to see how far the band can go. shows,” they agreed. “We are learning so So far it’s been great!” much from his experience.” To book The Peacemakers for your next “Our band’s motto is ‘Bringin’ it back,’ celebration, contact Ben Luchka at 813-752because we all like the music of Lynyrd 6018 or via e-mail to BenjaminLuchka@ Skynyrd and Brantley Gilbert,” explained gmail.com. Luchka. “We think country music nowadays is too mainstream, too pop.”
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DID YOU KNOW
BILL & GWEN THOMAS
TO RECEIVE THE PHOTO ARCHIVES “HERITAGE AWARD” Article by Plant City Photo Archives & History Center
Marshall, then went on to attend BethuneCookman College on a music scholarship. Gwen was an outstanding student, called “cute, respectable and fun loving” in a newspaper article in the Fla. Sentinel Bulletin June 8, 1968. She was the Vice President of her senior class, the Treasurer of the FHA, President of the Girls Club, and on Awards Night she received a large trophy from Publix Supermarkets as the most outstanding homemaking student. Gwen planned to attend college and major in business and she was presented with a scholarship from the Plant City Junior Woman’s Club. The newspaper article also referred to “Billy Mack Thomas and Gwendolyn Parker” as the “Honored Couple.” When the local draft board called Bill Thomas in for review and changed his status to 1A he knew it was time. Bill joined the U.S. Army in 1969 and he and Gwen were married in March of that year. Later in 1969 Bill was sent to Vietnam for a oneyear tour of duty with the Military Police. When he returned, Bill heard about the Army’s Criminal Investigations Division and applied for that. He was accepted and as a CID Special Agent he investigated all major crimes. After four years in Panama, 1971-74, during which time Gwen attended the Canal Zone College, they returned and Bill went on to become a Warrant Officer, then a Forensics Specialist, ending up in Germany prior to retiring in 1993. In Germany, Gwen worked in personnel, had a cooking show, and produced cakes for many of the Army’s special events, earning her a Certificate of Appreciation from the Frankfurt Military Community’s Chief of Staff, Col. Christopher Cole. Oh, yes, two children came along during those earlier years in Georgia in the 1970s: sons William Jr. and Chad. After retiring from the U.S. Army in 1993, Bill accepted an offer to join the Hillsborough Sheriff ’s Office; in 1998 he accepted an offer to work as the Department of Public Safety, Identification Section Chief, for the State of Mississippi.
Following this, Bill and Gwen returned to Plant City for good. But then Bill went back to work in charge of forensics for Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd. In Plant City they have both been deeply involved in the Plant City Improvement League and Bealsville Inc., and they help run the popular Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Festival. They have helped renovate the historic Bing Rooming House as well as helping to resurrect the Glover School in Bealsville. Bill also helped organize a youth football program, (Plant City Eagles), served on the Board of Directors of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, Hillsborough Community Action Board, HCC Search Committee, School Capacity Council, and the Executive Committee of the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center. Gwen has served with the Business and Professional Women’s Club, the Neighborhood Service Center, and is on the Board for the Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation. They also run the Academy of Excellence and the youth Crime Scene Identification Program, among other activities.
The newspaper article also referred to “Billy Mack Thomas and Gwendolyn Parker” as the “Honored Couple.”
P
lant City Photo Archives and History Center will honor community leaders Bill and Gwen Thomas with the Heritage Award at its twelfth annual Evening of Picture Perfect Memories, Thursday, March 27, 2014, at its exhibit gallery located at 106 South Evers Street in historic downtown Plant City. The annual soiree, (awards banquet), will begin with a champagne reception at 6:30 p.m. and a complimentary photo station sponsored by Sunshine State Federal Savings; attendees will enjoy the piano of the Florida Southern College Jazz instructor Paul Butcher; a photo exhibit of people, places, and events in the greater Plant City area; a complimentary wine bar sponsored by George and Cassandra Banning; an elegant served dinner catered by Fred’s Southern Kitchen; a photo trivia quiz, and the Heritage and Parolini awards. Photo Archives and History Center President Ed Verner announced that Bill and Gwen Thomas will be honored with the Heritage Award, and that Candy Owens and Ann Owens, both long-time volunteers at the Photo Archives, will receive the Bill Parolini Award for their dedicated volunteer services over the years. In addition to her position as a Photo Archives employee, Candy Owens has donated many volunteer hours to the organization.
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BILL AND GWEN THOMAS
William M. Thomas and Gwendolyn Parker Thomas are long-time Plant City residents who, after spending 24 years with the U.S Army, returned to Plant City in 1993 and have been an integral part of the community since. Bill grew up on Plant City’s west side and attended Simmons Elementary School through the 6th grade, then walked the two miles to the east side to attend Marshall High School, which held 7th through 12th grades. Gwen grew up on the east side attending Lincoln Elementary before moving up to Marshall High School. There was a basketball court near the Lincoln school, and on special days, such as Christmas, the neighborhood youngsters would ply their skating skills on the concrete courts. Bill had moved to the east side by the age of 13 and went to watch the skaters that Christmas day in 1964. He watched Gwen skate and didn’t take his eyes off her. He made her see him watching her and that was the beginning of their life-long trip together. Both Bill and Gwen were good students at Marshall High. Bill had learned the trumpet, being introduced to the tonette by music teacher Thelma Claire Ellis Sesler at Simmons, and played in the band at
PREVIOUS AWARD RECIPIENTS
Past recipients of the Heritage Award include: D. E. Bailey, James L. Redman, Robert Trinkle, B. M. “Mac” Smith, Betty Barker Watkins, Dr. Hal Brewer, Gladys Jeffcoat, James “Sonny” Jones, Robert “Bob” Edwards, Dr. Maribeth Mobley, and J. Myrle Henry. Past recipients of the Bill Parolini Award include Mary Jane Parolini, Tim Martin, Linda Smith, Bill Thomas, Betty Patton, Lou Baird, Anne Haywood, David Patton, and Lavon Dudley. For further information on the twelfth Evening of Picture Perfect Memories soiree and awards banquet call the Photo Archives and History Center office at 813.754.1578.
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4-CYL, PICKUP SPORTY GAS SAVER 2007 Ford Ranger XL – Reg Cab, 4cyl, AT, Ice Cold AC, 2003 Saturn ION – 3 door sport coupe, fully loaded, low extra clean, very sharp miles, AT, AC, PW, PDL, cruise, tilt, sport wheels • Low Payments • Easy Financing • Low Payments • Easy Financing
CONSIGNMENT SALES • EASY FINANCING AVAILABLE • MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED O’CONNOR AUTOMOTIVE 5211 James L. Redman Parkway, Plant City, Florida
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Quality Crafted • Affordable Price Built by Mennonite Craftsmen
Phone: 813-650-0535 • Cell: 813-610-7624 (3 Blocks N. of Hwy 60, SR 39S)
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U-HAUL TRUCK & TRAILER RENTALS 5309 James L. Redman Parkway, Plant City, Florida Phone: 813-704-6824 | Cell: 813-650-0535
5225 James L. Redman Parkway (SR39), Plant City, Florida Phone: 813-737-3110 | Cell: 813-509-6444
(3 miles south of Alexander on SR39)
*Plus Tax **FOCUS Plus TaxMAGAZINE & Mileage Charge PLANT CITY MARCH 2014
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CHAMBER COLUMN
GREATER PLANT CITY
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Submitted by Brian West Keep an eye on the Chamber calendar for new business ribbon cuttings at www. plantcity.org. Then, make time to come join everyone to learn a little about each business, wish everyone luck, and participate in the ribbon cutting photo.
The Strawberry Classic Car Show will be held on Saturday, March 15th from 4:00 – 8:00 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 40’s, 50’s and 60’s. 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.
Situated at the Lakeland Linder Airport Centrally located between Orlando and Tampa Over 4,000 sq. ft. of event space for Weddings, Meetings or Special Events. Stop by for Happy Hour specials at The Hangar Bar & Grill, then stay for dinner. Feel at home in your room that includes a microwave, refrigerator and coffee maker. Soak in the sun by our outdoor heated pool and whirlpool. Complimentary 24-hour Business Center and high-speed internet access.
Hilton Garden Inn Lakeland It’s Better at the Garden
3839 Don Emerson Drive, Lakeland, Fl, 33811 TEL: 1-863-647-0066 FAX: 1-863-646-5195 Lakeland.hgi.com
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The new Chamber members this month include: • Principal Financial Group held their ribbon cutting on March 11th • Ungent Care USA held their ribbon cutting on March 13th • Specialists Doctors Group held their ribbon cutting on March 13th • Sweetgum Environmental will hold their ribbon cutting on March 18th at 11:00 a.m. at 106 N. Evers St., on March 18th • The Art of Prevention will hold their ribbon cutting on March 22nd at 11:00 a.m. at Plant City Chamber, located at 106 N. Evers St. • Antioch Little League will hold their ribbon cutting at 9:00 a.m. at 8510 Franklin Road, Plant City • Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill will hold their ribbon cutting on March 25th at 11:00 a.m. at 106 State Road 60 East, Plant City • University of Florida - PC Campus will hold their ribbon cutting on April 8th at 11:00 a.m. at 1200 North Park Road, Plant City • Plant City Dentistry will hold their ribbon cutting on April 10th at 12:30 p.m. at 2313 Thonotosassa Rd.
Each month, the Chamber holds a Contact Breakfast. This month’s breakfast will be held on Wednesday, March 19th at 7:30 a.m. in the Expo Building on the grounds of the Florida Strawberry Festival. The quest speaker will be Congressman Dennis Ross. You must RSVP to the Chamber no later than the Friday before the breakfast to allow 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 are no guarantees. If you have any questions, please feel free to call the Chamber at 754-3707. The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce will be holding their monthly Business After Hours on Thursday March 20th from 5:15 – 7:00 p.m. The February event is sponsored by Focus Magazine as their annual people’s choice awards, and will be held at the Southside Farm Supply – 3014 S. James Redman Parkway. The Business After Hours is usually held the third Thursday of each month and is hosted by a current Chamber member. The gathering 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 and join everyone. The Bike Show will be held on Saturday, April 5th in Historic Downtown Plant City from 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. The show features hundreds of bikes from all over, with everyone riding in for a relaxing afternoon in downtown. For the enthusiast, there are bikes of all styles, makes, models, and both new and old. The show is always a little different, but there are often antique bikes where owners have spent countless hours restoring them to their former glory. And like the Car Show, many of the downtown merchants are open longer hours to accommodate the crowds.
PLANT CITY
You see them in Movies, T.V. Commercials and in Magazines!
RIBBON CUTTINGS HEATHER HUGGINS
LUKE MANLEY
Shell Oil Company Air Show Principal Role. Publix Training Film Principal Role and Print Ad $225.00 a Day.
Starring Role in The Film Documentary on The Life of George Jenkins “Mr. George” Publix Supermarkets Founder.
CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!
MARSHA DOLBERG Publix Training Film Principal Role and Print Ad $225.00 a Day.
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The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting on February 25, 2014 for Eric Vargulic, Regional Account Executive for Central Payment. Central Payment is a credit card processing company. For all of your credit card processing needs, you can contact Eric Vargulic at 678/910-6164 or email : evargulic@cpay.com
LAURA PHILLIPS Appearing in the National TV Series Graceland on the USA Network.
DAVID ROSE Appearing in the National TV Series Graceland on the USA Network.
YVONNE MERRITT Publix Training Film Principal Role and Print Ad $225.00 a Day.
www.jessandersontalentandmodelagency.com
Jess Anderson index APR14 take2.indd 1
3/5/2014 7:58:39 PM
The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting on Tuesday, March 11, 2014 for Joel Snively, with the Principal Financial Group. Principal has been helping individuals, families, and businesses with financial goals since 1879! Joel specializes in risk management for personal and business needs, and offers life, disability and health insurance. Joel also served four years in the United States Marine Corp, as an infantry assault man and 2 tours of duty in Iraq. Joel can be reached at 813-368-4016. FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MARCH 2014
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Plant City isn’t only known for its succulent strawberries. Talk to anyone familiar with our community and they’ll be sure to tell you that Plant City residents sure know how to treat their visitors. Southern hospitality is truly alive and well here. And nothing goes hand-in-hand in Plant City better than a little hospitality and some down-home cookin’. Our 12th annual reader’s survey proved that our hometown restaurants are top of the line. From old favorites like Johnson’s BBQ and the Strawberry Hut, to new hits like Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill and Wasabi Japanese Steak House and Sushi Bar, Plant City boasts some of the best eats in town in several different categories...from pizza and steaks to chicken wings and milkshakes and more. Focus Magazine celebrated this success during its 12th annual Anniversary Party on Thursday, February 20 at Keel and Curley Winery. Plant City community and civic leaders and residents alike enjoyed delicious chocolate-covered strawberries, free Keel and Curley and Two Henry’s drinks, and other appetizers before being treated to a filling dinner provided by Carrabba’s Italian Grill and the Reader’s Choice Awards ceremony hosted by Dave and Veronica from WQYK. Tampa Bay Buccaneer and Plant City resident Adam Hayward also made an appearance at the event to present the Best Steak award! Finally Dock 7 topped the night off with some first-class musical entertainment. The announcement of the Reader’s Choice Award winners is always a highlight of the year for the Focus Magazine staff, and it wouldn’t be possible without our loyal readers who, yet again, voted online for one of three nominees among Plant City dining establishments in several different categories. This year, our readers created some excitement as the winner for Best Server was decided by a mere four votes! If you happened to miss our annual anniversary party and the awards ceremony, no worries; we have the winners listed right here. Be sure to take time this month to visit, congratulate, and dine with the 2013 RCA Winners!
Best Asian Wasabi
Nominees: 813 Chinese China One Wasabi
Best BBQ
Johnson’s BBQ Nominees: First Choice BBQ Johnson’s BBQ Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill
Best Breakfast Fred’s Market Nominees: Brick House Café Fred’s Market Snellgroves
Best Chicken Wings
Beef “O” Bradys Nominees: Beef “O” Bradys Nick’s Pizza O’Briens
Best Coffee
Dunkin’ Donuts Nominees: Dunkin’ Donuts Hole In One Doughnuts Krazy Kup
Best Cuban
Strawberry Hut Nominees: Brooklyn Bridge Norma‘s Ybor City Cubans Strawberry Hut
Best Fried Chicken
Best Dessert
Nominees: Don Pollo Fred’s Market Maryland Fried Chicken
Dairy Queen Nominees: Applebees Dairy Queen Twistee Treat
Maryland Fried Chicken
Parkesdale Farms
Best Hamburger Chili’s
Nominees: Brick House Café Chili’s Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill
Best Hometown Cookin’ Fred’s Market Nominees: Brick House Café Fred’s Market Snellgroves
Best Italian Carrabba’s
Nominees: Carrabba’s Esposito’s Olde Town Pizzeria
Best Mexican Mi Casa
Nominees: El Rincon Mexicano Mi Casa Tequila’s Sports Bar & Grill
Best Milkshake Parkesdale
Nominees: Dairy Queen Parkesdale Strawberry Hut
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Best Salad ABC Pizza
Nominees: ABC Pizza Johnson’s BBQ Olde Town Pizzeria
Best Seafood
Linda’s Crab Shack
Best Pizza
Olde Town Pizzeria Nominees: ABC Pizza Esposito’s Pizza Nick’s Pizza Olde Town Pizzeria
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Nominees: Chancey’s Catfish Shack Linda’s Crab Shack Shrimp Co. Express
Best Soup
Panera Bread Nominees: Carrabba’s The Corner Store Panera Bread
Best Strawberry Shortcake Parkesdale Nominees: Fred’s Market Parkesdale St. Clements
Parkesdale Farms
Best Steak
Outback Steahouse Nominees: Johnson’s BBQ Outback Steahouse Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill
Best Overall Service
Johnson’s BBQ Nominees: Carrabba’s Johnson’s BBQ Olde Town Pizzeria
Favorite Server Kayla Burnette Johnson’s BBQ Nominees: April Sikes Chili’s Chris Stovall Carrabba’s Kayla Burnette Johnson’s BBQ Courtney Strunk Olde Town Pizzeria Nikki Watson O’Briens Debbie Chili’s
Voting is for Plant City establishments only. This year all voting was facilitated online which was promoted in our November & December issues of the magazine as well as on www.focusplantcity.com and through our Facebook fan page. These votes were calculated and these were the results.
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JOIN US FOR A
SPECIAL PALM
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APRIL 13, 2014 9:00 & 11:00 AM
2103 Mud Lake Road
813.752.4591
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JOIN US FOR OUR EASTER SUNDAY SERVICES APRIL 20, 2014 9:00 & 11:00 AM JOIN US FOR OUR SUNRISE SERVICE ON EASTER AT THE WALDEN LAKE PARK AT 7:00AM FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MARCH 2014
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PLANT CITY
BUSINESS LEADERS
Jim Scott Jarrett-Scott Ford
Scott, a native of Troy, Michigan, near Detroit, graduated from Michigan State University in 1993 with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Before going to work for Ford Motor Company in 1995 he worked in sales and marketing for the Detroit Tigers and the Detroit Pistons. Ford Motor Company transferred Jim to Orlando in 1996 where he worked as a sales representative, calling on dealerships throughout the state. During the time from 1997-1999 when he served as Jarrett-Bodiford Ford’s sales representative, he formed a business relationship with the Jarrett family that eventually led to him leaving Ford Motor Company to join the Jarrett’s organization. Jim Scott can’t specifiy a particular defining moment, but he reports that “after working in the corporate world for 5 years, I slowly figured out it wasn't what I wanted to do long term.” His happiest moment: “My wedding day! Of course!”
One simple but powerful word describes Jim’s key to success: “Honesty.” As to a best business lesson, he said, “Don't ever ask your employees to do something that you're not willing to do yourself.” One thing Jim wouldn’t want to live without: “Peanut butter and chocolate, together.” Not surprisingly, his favorite quote is one from Henry Ford: "Whether you think you can or can't, you're right.” And his favorite book: Freedom's Forge, by Arthur Herman
Advice he would offer young entrepreneurs is “Don't go home at night until you've returned all of your phone messages. It's something my dad (who is an entrepreneur) taught me. It sounds very simple but a lot of people I deal with don't do it.” Jarrett-Scott Ford 2000 E. Baker St. Plant City, FL 33563 888-695-3575 jarrettscottford.com Jarrett family co-owns 5 Ford dealerships Jarrett family bought PC dealership in 1995; originally founded here by Fletcher family in 1912 Charities: Among many are FFA, Rotary, Chamber of Commerce, Plant City Family YMCA, Plant City Little League, Plant
City Dolphins, Bruton Memorial Library, Plant City Elks, Lions Club, South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation, Plant City Photo Archives, Scholarships for Plant City High School, Plant City High School, Durant High School, United Food Bank, and Baseball Heaven. Civic Memberships: Noon Rotary Club; PC Chamber of Commerce. Employees: 64
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PLANT CITY
BUSINESS LEADERS
Fred Johnson
Fred’s Southern Kitchen, Fred’s Market, Johnson Barbeque In September, Plant City native Fred Johnson and his beautiful wife Tammy will celebrate 35 years of marriage. They enjoy being surrounded by family, with Fred’s mother Evelyn and two of their three sons and families living on adjoining properties. Owen, 32, and Michael, 29, both work in the family’s restaurant businesses, while Caleb, 31, is a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Deputy, after having served in the Marine Corps. The Plant City High School graduate attended the University of Florida before completing his Bachelor of Science in Citrus Production at Florida Southern College. Fred inherited the entrepreneurial spirt from his parents, Elton and Evelyn Johnson. He says he “grew up that way,” watching and working alongside them. Their Plant City tradition started out with a gas station, selling sandwiches on the side. Over the next few decades the various Johnsonrun restaurants in the area featured “fine old-fashioned Southern cooking,” slowsmoked barbeque, and family focus. He added, “I worked for a large fertilizer company for a year out of college, but I didn’t feel like they were giving my customers what they deserved. I didn’t like someone holding my destiny, so I changed directions.” As those who know him well would attest, Fred considers his life’s happiest moments to be those involving family—his marriage and the births of his children and grandchildren. Young entrepreneurs, he advises, should “Keep your integrity and also, keep it small and own it all. Grow as you can. Don’t get stretched out with people who don’t have your best interests at heart. That’s too big a risk.” The Johnson family sees their “love of hospitality” as their key to success. “We just try to take good care of people and to cook our food the way we want to eat it, which is fresh and plenty.” Fred’s best learned business lesson is that “You
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must have the right people. It’s important to train them well and treat them right and hold them accountable.” Again he advises, “When you begin growing, keep it small so you can own it all.” With regards to food, he explained, “the whole world has changed. Customers have become more sophisticated from watching The Food Network. Today people want good, fresh food and they don’t mind serving themselves from a buffet or walk-up counter.” Aside from family, the one thing he can't live without is “fried chicken and collards.” Laughing, he added, “I couldn’t live without that ‘cause I’d be broke.” Fred tries to live by the Golden Rule - Treat others as you’d like to be treated. And of course, he appreciates the company’s slogan: “Eat better. Love Life. Live Longer.” As to his favorite book, it’s the moral dilemma classic, Crime and Punishment by Russian author Fyodor Dostoyevsky. Fred’s Southern Kitchen (3 locations) Home office: 2124 Harden Blvd. Lakeland, FL 33803 863-680-1147 fredssouthernkitchen.com (The Original Fred's Market) 1401 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-7763 Fred’s Southern Kitchen 2120 Harden Blvd. Lakeland, Fl 33803 863-603-7080 Fred’s Market 6501 US Hwy 301, Riverivew, FL 813-741-9101 Johnson Barbeque (2 locations) 1407 W. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. BLVD. Plant City, FL 33563 813-759-0009
Johnson Barbeque 1551 3rd Street S.W. Winter Haven, FL 33880 863-595-1190 Business(es) Established: Johnson’s Restaurant (1954); Buddy Freddy’s (1980); Fred’s Market/Southern Kitchen (1998) Employees: typically about 400 Charities: Among many dear to Fred & Tammy’s heart are the Plant City Pregnancy Care Center; Cornerstone; United Food Bank and Boy Scouts of America Civic Involvement: Fred serves on many local boards; businesses are members of their community Chambers of Commerce
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PLANT CITY
BUSINESS LEADERS
Nate Davis Florida Mortgage Firm
Nate is a Plant City native who joined the U.S. Marine Corps after completing high school. Following his military service, he attended Hillsborough Community College on Park Road before transferring to the University of Florida to earn his bachelor’s degree in advertising with a minor in business. He and wife Natasha Davis have two girls, Jaida, 8, and Paitlyn, 4. The family also has a beagle named Buster, who, according to Nate, “prefers an afternoon on the couch over any outdoor activity. He likes to lick his butt and is lazy.” As to his entrepreneurial spirit, Nate explained its source: “My mom, Gail Calhoun, was an entrepreneur, so I was raised around it. I have seen the highs and lows of owning a business and fell in love with it at an early age. As a kid, I used to raise day-old calves we would buy from the auction for $20, and I would raise them to the point where they could make it on their own in a field before selling them for roughly $300 each. That experience taught me a lot about business, hard work, and discipline. I was addicted to calculated risks at an early age.” “I would say the happiest moment of my life was watching my first child being born. I remember being there with my wife, who I love and adore, and witnessing a miracle when my oldest daughter was delivered. I had never laughed and cried simultaneously before that moment. It is one I will never forget.” Davis offers some sage advice to young entrepreneurs. “The biggest mistake I see younger business owners make is leaving their steady jobs prior to their new business being off its feet and consistently profitable. Companies not weighted down by financial requirements will always make better decisions than those that are, giving them a better chance to capitalize on opportunities. I personally feel they should get out of debt first, too — other than a mortgage…of course. Both people and businesses that start out burdened with debt will have a much harder road to travel than those without it.” Davis believes his key to business success is “staying lean.” He explained, “Obviously not
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physically, or I would be in trouble. But financially lean. When you and your company are not burdened with consumer debt, you can take more chances and make better decisions in the long run. When you absolutely have to make that sell, or you can’t afford to hire that amazing person who just got laid off, it greatly reduces your chances of success. In addition, I would say you have to “want it.” Not, kind of want it, or want it if it’s easy, but want the success as much as you want to breathe. You need a relentless drive, a disciplined approach, and a good business model. You have to create a business that can earn you a living while helping people fulfill their genuine needs. When you do that, earning customers is easy because you are providing them with value. At The Florida Mortgage Firm, we help people buy or refinance their homes with the best option available to them. Seeing someone move into his or her first home is, and will always be, a rewarding experience.” “The best lesson I’ve learned in business is this: People are your best asset and resource. Great people make great companies. If you have the right group of people working toward the same goal, it is scary what you can accomplish. Without people, a company is just a tax-ID number and an idea.” “The one thing I can't live without is my family. I’m a ‘regulation’ dad and husband. Spending time with them is what I live for. They are everything to me.” Generosity and peace of mind are also important to Davis, as evidenced in his favorite quote: “You cannot receive with a clenched fist.” Two favorite books he’d recommend are How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie and EntreLeadership: 20 Years of Practical Business Wisdom from the Trenches by Dave Ramsey The Florida Mortgage Firm (formerly Plant City Mortgage) 1507 S. Alexander St., Ste 101, Plant City, FL 33563 813-707-6200
Charities: Various, including St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, American Cancer Society, and the Florida Strawberry Festival Steer Sale.
Years in Business: 5; Civic Memberships: established 2009; Davis in formerly in Plant City mortgage business 8 yrs. Chamber of Commerce Employees: 10
PLANT CITY
BUSINESS LEADERS
Joe Keel
Keel & Curley Winery & Two Henry’s Brewing Company Joe Keel was born in Peoria, Illinois and moved to Tampa with his family when he was just two years-old. He worked as a kid on his grandfather’s farm, so his defining moment for business came early in his love of the land. He calls his life’s happiest moments “the days when my three sons (twins Ray and Ryan and youngest child Clay) were born.” Today Ryan and Clay also work in the businesses he owns, and the grateful family enjoys giving back to the community through local fundraising events. When not working, Joe and Alicia enjoy family time, traveling (and flying in his Cherokee 6 plane) and fishing in the Florida Keys.
Keel attributes his success to “working hard,” explaining, “The word ‘quit’ is not in my vocabulary. The one thing Joe says he can’t live without is “my wife Alicia.” “Treat fellow business persons as you would like to be treated,” is his best-learned business lesson. A favorite motto and standard for life is “Never say never” and a book he recommends to all is "Tap Dancing to Work" by Warren Buffet.
His advice to young entrepreneurs, and anyone for that matter, is “Never give up on your dreams.”
Keel & Curley Winery Two Henrys Brewing Company 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City, FL 33565 813-752-9100 keelandcurleywinery.co m Established: Keel Farms (1981); Florida Berry Wines, Inc., dba Keel & Curley Winery (2003); Two Henrys Brewing Company (2013) Employees: 55
Stomp Mud Run (PC Chamber of Commerce Scholarship; Kidney Foundation), the Bloomingdale survivor Queena fundraiser, American Cancer Center and Leukemia Foundation, Blueberry Pageant (Morgan Pierce- local child in need), Blueberry Festival (St. Clements Catholic Church and Darby Hastings- local child in need), Valentine’s Date Night Fundraiser (Brandon BSA troop, Middleton HS Robotics Team), and numerous others.
Charities: The company benefits many Civic Groups: Plant local causes through product donations and City Chamber of onsite event fundraisers Commerce such as the Blueberry
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PLANT CITY
BUSINESS LEADERS
Kimball Wetherington Wetherington’s Tractor Service
Wetherington Tractor Service is a Plant City based site development construction company. They complete jobs in Pinellas, Hillsborough, Polk counties and often further away. Kimball started the company in 1985 with a grade tractor and bush hog mower. The company now offers all phases of underground utility installation, site work, concrete and asphalt pavement, complete demolition, roll-off dumpster, and trucking services. Kimball grew up in Plant City, the 6th child of Clyde and Joyce Wetherington. He has one daughter, Amanda Drawdy, and son in law, Hunter Drawdy. He has four brothers, four sisters, as well as too many nieces and nephews to count! He recalls his defining moment as “the day I got the courage to quit my hourly air conditioning installation job and take the risk of making a living on my own. I realized I could make a living with a tractor: mowing, grading, etc., if I was willing to work hard for long hours. His happiest moment: “The day my daughter was born, December 15, 1986.
Kimball would advise young entrepreneurs with these words: “Never give up! Don’t be shy about collecting the money you have earned. Always complete the job,” and finally, “You will run into customers that are not satisfied regardless of the quality of service you provided. When you do, be pleasant, complete your job, and put them on your ‘never work for again’ list.” Business success keys include: “My WTS team;” and “the right attitude,” which is “that we can do anything and always look for solutions for the customer, not simply saying “we can’t do that.” Wetherington has learned some especially valuable business lessons: 1) There will be tough jobs and tough times. You can’t control everything but always do your best and complete every job to the best quality possible; 2) Have good quality people to help you with all challenges in your business; 3) Work hard regardless of economic downturn; and 4) Take care of your team members and they will take care of you.” He explained: “I could not make it without my valued WTS team members, good customers, and family.” Two favorite quotes remind Kimball of his future and his past. These are: “I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.” –Jimmy Dean; and “Don’t worry about studying, the world needs ditch diggers too” – Joyce Wetherington (My mother, once when reviewing my 11th grade report card, must have had a premonition). And as to reading, the site development, construction and demolition expert enjoys “any action novels by authors such as John Grisham and Tom Clancy.
Wetherington Tractor Service Established 1985 Office and construction yard located at 1901 Industrial Park Dr, Plant City.
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We support: City of Plant City Florida Strawberry Festival FFA youth programs Employees: currently 43
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THANK YOU from Who goes to the Doctor of Chiropractic? Children Families Athletes Pregnant Women and Infants Elderly Students Accident Victims
1985
DUKES CHIROPRACTIC HEALTH CLINIC, P.A. To our many wonderful patients, families, friends and businesses on this, our 29th Anniversary. It truly has been our prayers that God would bless each of you in every way. Thank you for the opportunity to LOVE, to SERVE, and to GIVE out of ABUNDANCE throughout the years.
2013 4
Blessings to All, Dr. Dukes and Staff
EVERYBODY! We offer a wide variety of services: Chiropractic Care Massage Therapy Rehabilitation Digital Pulse Analysis Foot Stabilization Nutrition
The doctor of the future will give no medicine but will interest his patients in the care of the human frame, diet, and in the cause and prevention of disease. -Thomas Edison
Dr. Brenda Dukes • Chiropractic Physician | 752-2524 • 2401 Walden Woods Dr. • Plant City, FL 33566
HEYSEK & KEPES RADIATION ONCOLOGY (Formally Known as Plant City Cancer Treatment Center)
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110 W. REYNOLDS ST, STE 109 PLANT CITY, FL 33565 (813)759-8485 (813)759-8183 michaels.cameron@lpl.com
We have changed our name to show who we are and what we do. We continue to provide personalized and state of the art care.
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· Accuboost HDR for Breast Cancer · Skin Cancer Treatment
Call 813-719-7705 for appointments/consultations 303 North Alexander Street, Plant City, FL (still located with South Florida Baptist Hospital)
BUSINESS & FINANCE President Stephen Rossiter. “For example, if you get sick on a Friday night and can’t call your primary care physician during the weekend, just contact Call the Doc from your home, and if necessary, you’ll have a prescription in less than an hour. No waiting, no co pays, no sitting with other sick people in a waiting room, and no spending hours in the ER.”
CALL THE DOC PLANT CITY BUSINESS PROFILE
R
unny nose, sore throat, sneezing, coughing, and congestion—a common cold is easy to diagnose, but receiving the medication you need to overcome the illness can be a troubling, time-consuming process. Not only is it difficult to set a doctor’s appointment that fits your busy schedule, but it can cost hundreds of dollars for a visit where you’ll be spending most of your time in the waiting room.
Article by Amanda Deck
video, and email consultations. In addition, you’ll always be able to retrieve to your Electronic Medical Records through Call the Doc, a HIPPA-compliant service. “Consumers can access a licensed doctor anytime they want,” said Call the Doc Vice
have peace of mind. I can rest easy at night knowing that my children are in good hands 24 hours a day,” said Lisa from North Carolina.
Call the Doc can also order a variety of discount medical lab tests to be administered in-home or at a location of your choice. A discount prescription card and discount diagnostic imaging tests are Once you contact Call the Doc, you will be also part of your Call the Doc plan. connected with a Registered Nurse who will perform a five-to-ten minute tele-triage by Great for families, Call the Doc is documenting your symptoms and updating also a great addition to any company’s your medical history. The nurse will then health care plan. Employees can address securely forward your information to a common medical issues through low cost licensed, in-state doctor. In about 20 to 30 telemedicine services without leaving minutes, you’ll receive a call from the doctor work—dramatically reducing an employer’s who will complete your diagnosis, develop a health care costs and employee sick days. treatment plan, and send a prescription to “Times being what they are, I couldn’t the pharmacy of your choice. afford to miss a single day from work,” Call the Doc is a convenient supplement said Christian from Virginia. “Thanks to to your existing primary care. Mr. Rossiter Call the Doc, I didn’t have to. Everyone on reminds us that “most illnesses can be the Call the Doc staff was very kind and treated through phone consultation.” courteous and I was finished in under an Common conditions addressed by Call hour. I feel great and I haven’t missed a the Doc physicians include ear infection, single day of work.” stomach virus, sore throat, pink eye, headache, rashes, fever, urinary tract Register now for the undeniable benefits infection, diabetes, allergies, constipation, of Call the Doc. Visit Call the Doc online at callthedoc.com or call them toll-free at and more. 1-800-414-7882. “With Call the Doc’s family plan, I have something more than health benefits—I
According to the American Medical Association, approximately 70 percent of doctor’s office visits are unnecessary. Call the Doc was established to remedy this problem and to provide you with a quick, convenient and inexpensive way to get your prescriptions filled without ever leaving your home. No matter your age and/or whether you are medically insured, Call the Doc provides immediate 24/7 contact with high quality, affordable tele-consultations with boardcertified doctors anytime, anywhere. Whether you’re sick at home or out-ofstate on vacation, Call the Doc physicians are available to diagnose your illness, prescribe non-narcotic medications, answer your questions, and get you back on track toward perfect health. For just $19.95 per month you can have 24hour nationwide access to physician phone, Stephen Rossiter, Vice President of Call the Doc. FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MARCH 2014
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BUSINESS & FINANCE
AZALEA OAKS PLACE
ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY Column by Edward Jones
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Dena Martin
H
er Dream Has Come True!
Dena Martin’s dream of opening her own “elder-centered community” is finally a reality. Azalea Oaks Place, is a private pay facility located at 902 Charlie Griffin Road in Plant City between Chili’s and Walden Lake. When did your dream of opening an assisted living facility of your own begin? “I have always adored seniors. They have spent a lifetime collecting memories, knowledge, and experiences and I greatly enjoy hearing their stories. But, about five years ago my grandfather reached the point where he needed assistance with everyday living. My mom chose a facility for him and we moved him in. Well, I won’t go into details but it wasn’t a good experience for him. It was at that point that I knew I wanted to create a place where my elders would receive the very best care and live out their lives with dignity and enjoyment.” What makes Azalea Oaks Place different? “Seniors are our passion! We believe that this passion is evident throughout our facility. We are committed to creating an environment that avoids the three plagues of loneliness, helplessness, and boredom that many seniors suffer from.
Our staff is experienced and shares the same love for seniors that I do. The facility is a beautiful home-like setting where our elders will enjoy delicious freshly prepared meals, spontaneous, enjoyable activities, visits from children, etc. It is obvious that the happiness of our residents is our #1 priority.” How can we check out Azalea Oaks Place? “The best way is to call me at 813704-6504 and we can set a convenient time to meet for a tour of our facility and answer any questions you may have. Also, we will have an OPEN HOUSE on Thursday, March 27 from 12:00 until 4:00. We look forward to meeting you!”
“Seniors are our passion! We believe that this passion is evident throughout our facility” FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MARCH 2014
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813-305-1616
2311 Knights Griffin Rd, Plant City
Malissa Crawford 813-967-0168 Mitchell Crawford 813-549-9412
ES
CR +A
15
Commercial and Residential Sales
John Ray 813-787-4932
Residential Sales and Buyer’s Agent
Angela Chisholm 813-447-1197
$275,000 | 3/2 - 1952 sf | mls# T2618868
3047 Sutton Woods Dr, Plant City ED UC D E R CE PRI
3229 Lampp Rd, Plant City
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CR 0A
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$274,500 | 4/2 - 1982 sf | mls# T2610294
$524,900 | 5/3 - 3469 sf | mls# T2565137
3511 Sandburg Loop, Plant City ED UC D E ER RIC
3901 Joe Sanchez Rd, Plant City
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Residential Sales and Buyer’s Agent
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Real Service, Real Commitment, Real Estate is our Business!
MARCH 2014 focusplantcity.com
REAL ESTATE » MORTGAGE
Plant City’s
THE PATH TO best kePt
LIBERATION seCret Column by Nate Davis
new Home Community at Park PlaCe
• 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.
T
his may seem crazy coming from a decision about it. I see it as a “forced savings mortgage guy, but I’m super excited plan.” Plus, it gives me a sense of liberation about my newest goal: paying off my to know I am not on an eternal rat wheel. mortgage. I encourage you to grab a pen and paper, While there’s no doubt that a mortgage is draft a budget, pay off all consumer debt, great for purchasing a home or consolidating and then devise a plan to pay off your home debts, I also know it is not something I want in 15 years or less. It does not require as as a permanent fixture in my life. much as you might think to do this. Below is a scenario where by paying an additional You can dramatically cut years off the length $300 a month on a $100,000 mortgage of your loan by paying extra toward the loan, a homeowner could shave 16 years off principal on it. I have extra money deducted the life of his or her mortgage, ultimately automatically to avoid making a monthly saving more than $44,000.
Loan Amount
Interest Rate
Monthly Mortgage Payment
Extra Payment
Total Monthly Payment
Years to Pay Off Loan
Total Paid
Total Saved
$100,000
4.25%
$491.94
$0
$491.94
30
$177,098.40
$0
$100,000
4.25%
$491.94
$300
$791.94
14
$132,783.53
$44,314.87
• 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
1809 N. Gordon Street, Plant City, FL 33563
Call Model Center at 813-767-5175
*The following example does not include taxes and insurance. It is based strictly off the loan amount. FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MARCH 2014
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REALTY SERVICES, INC.
813-659-0990 2005 Mud Lake Rd. Plant City, FL 33567
(Corner of Alexander St. and Mud Lake Rd)
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Beautiful 4BR 3.5BA Pool Home in Odessa. Over 3766 SF with 2 Fireplaces, Screened Pool & Spa plus 25x55 Steel Building with separate electric. Short Sale. “Gated Community” Call 813-659-0990 #593 Contract Pending
Walden Lake 3BR 2BA Block Hm with Stone Fireplace, Split Plan, Screened Patio & Fenced Back Yard. Not a short sale - ready to close! Call Linda Howe @ 813-752-0289/813-716-8731. #605
Short Sale. Beautiful community with trees & water view from your patio. Spacious 4 Bedroom 2 1/2 Bath home with loft. Features upgraded cabinetry & Corian counters. Call 813-659-0990 #585
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This home has a separate meter for home office or you can make this a large 4th bedroom. Home boast a 24x24 great room for your large parties. Walk outside and enjoy the view. You can park your RV or boat. $175,000 Call Mary @ 813-716-4141 #587
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This newly renovated, well maintained home features Beautiful Walden Lakes & Golf Course! 5BR, 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 updated baths and has lots of 4BA, 3+ Garage Block home with Screened Pool extra closet space. Brand new tile, carpet and laminate & Spa. Call 813-659-0090. #511 flooring. AC is only 2 years old. Home features a Huge fenced back yard and located on a quiet cul de sac. Call Shayne @ 813-716-0401. #594
FOREST CLUB POOL HOME
SEMINOLE HEIGHTS
CRENSHAW LAKES
Walden Lake - with a view of The Lakes Golf Course green and water view - located on a quiet cul-de-sac. Beautiful 4 bedroom 3.5 Bath with over 3277 SF - Fireplace Outdoor Grill. Possible In-Law Suite - Garage has private office & full bath. This home is Florida living at its best. Call Karen @ 813-478-1260. #599
Pristine Bungalow with Hillsborough River & Park View! 3 Bedroom & 1 Bath with lot’s of original details. New tin roof, hardwood floors, original doors & kitchen counters, large closets & beautiful porch looking over the river! Call 813-6590990 #589
Short Sale. Beautiful Custom Built 2 Story Pool Home with over 4071 SF and fabulous wrap around Porch on over 1 Acre with access to Lake Crenshaw! $599,000 Call 813-659-0990. #555 Contract Pending
MARCH 2014 focusplantcity.com
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PRIME LOCATION WITH EXCELLENT ACCESS!
Office suites start at $400 and are inclusive
1 Mont Free R h ent (call fo r det ails)
(electricity, water, wireless internet)
Tenants have 24/7 access as well as use of the meeting rooms (upon availability). Short term (6 mos) leases are available as well as longer terms (1-2 years). Perfect for home-based businesses who have outgrown their home office or for larger companies who would like a presence in the Greater Brandon area without having to open a full office!
PLEASE CALL 813-689-1221 FOR MORE INFORMATION. 72
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2403 N Dover Rd
11 acre farm, 3/3 block home, outbuilding $320,000
Call for details
813-716-6007
PCHS Prince and Princess.
Renee Corzine Plant City High School recently crowned the PCHS Prince and Princess.
Students entered the contest sponsored by the Civinettes and carried around containers collect2902 James Melvin ing money for the PCHS Relay for Life Team and the PCHS Scholarship Fund. Top 4/2/2 + 2-car garage/ workshop, 3238 sq ft, 1.15 acres, $365,000 Fundraisers were named to the Prince and Princess Court with the top male and female being named the Prince and Princess of Plant City High School. Bryson Keel was crowned Prince while Jana Watkins is the new Princess. Keel is a 9th grade student and Miss Watkins is a senior. Other court members, all 9th graders, include First runner up Kassie Case, Zoee Causey and Ashlyn Yarbrough. Twenty six PCHS students participated in the contest and raised over $2,000 for the charities. Pictured: Cassie Case (First Runner up), Prince Bryson Keel, Princess Jana Watkins, Zoee Causey and Ashlyn Yarbrough.
Complet e In te r ior De s ign • Kitc he n R e mod e l s • F l o o r i n g • Wa l l C o v e r i n g s • C u s t o m D r a p e r i e s • U p h o lst er y • Bl i n ds • Wal l paper
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REAL ESTATE » WALDEN LAKE REVIEW
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he Walden Lake Community Association Board Meetings are the third Monday of each month at the Walden Lake Community Association office building at 3035 Griffin Boulevard in Walden Lake. The next meetings are scheduled for March 17th beginning at the new time of 7:00 PM. The meetings are open to all Walden Lake residents.
for rezoning of portions of the golf course and areas around the clubhouse. Many residents have voiced their opposition to the rezoning and are working on a petition opposing these changes. There is someone at the park on Saturday mornings collecting signatures. If you haven’t already signed the petition and feel as they do, stop by and sign the petition.
The Annual Meeting of Members will be Thursday, April 10th at 7:00 PM at the Plant City Church of God at 2103 Mud Lake Road. There are six well qualified candidates for three seats on the Board of Directors. The candidates are as follows: Deedra Allen, a Village Green resident. Eileen Anderson, an Aston Woods resident. Theresa “Terry” Murphy, a Forest Club resident. Sharon Philbin, a Forest Club resident. David Sollenberger, a Clubhouse Woods resident. Heather Updike, a Clubhouse Woods resident and the only current Board Member up for re-election. For more information and background on these candidates, please get with the HOA office.
There was a recent meeting of the Board of Directors and concerned residents to discuss what these changes could mean to the community. The Board has not made a statement of where they stand in relation to the redevelopment although they told the residents that they would give a formal statement after they meet with their legal counsel.
Walden Lake collects for the Plant City United Food Bank all year long. The Food Bank need has risen dramatically and the donations have decreased. The Food Bank is a hand up not a hand out, therefore an agency such as a Church has to recommend the family to the Food Bank. The number of children without food is the largest increase the Food Bank receives request for help. Please drop any items by the office of We have a new property manager at nonperishable items. If you cannot make it Walden Lake. Lee Weiss has been hired during office hours, please feel free to drop permanently to replace the open position items outside the front door of the office. after Tom Duramus’s resignation. Feel free to contact me about this article As most are already aware, Visions Golf has or any real estate questions you may have. submitted plans with the City of Plant City NSweet@KW.com or 813-758-9586.
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TUDOR STYLE WALDEN LAKE HOME ASTON WOODS IN WALDEN LAKE This beautiful home features 4400 sq’ of living area with 2 Master Suites, remodeled Kitchen, gleaming wood floors, Aston Woods is one of the nicest neighborhoods in Walden crown moulding, and so much more. Party around one of the largest pool areas in Walden Lake with a cabana and full Lake. Former Newsome Model features 5 BR, 3 BA, Huge bath. This is a fabulous property for only $425,000! Kitchen, oversized Family Rm w/fireplace, spacious master suite & more. Large lanai w/large pool & spa recently rescreened. $264,900
CLASSIC BRICK HAMMOCK HOME This home sits beautifully on a corner lot with lush landscaping all around. Great Room floor plan perfect for entertaining featuring 4 large bedrooms, 2556 sq’ living area, brick fireplace, wood floors and more. $219,900.
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EXECUTIVE ASTON WOODS HOME This home features 2971 sq’ of living area, volume ceilings, a 3 way split plan w/5 bedrooms, 3 Baths. 5th bedroom is used as an office w/gorgeous mahogany built-ins. Large lanai & solar heated pool & spa $305,000
WALDEN WOODS TOWNHOME CARE FREE LIVING IN LAKELAND 4 BEDROOM WALDEN LAKE HOME This home is ready & waiting for you! Gleaming bamboo Maintenance Free Home in Gated Community. 3 Bedroom This home has lots of room to spread out in. Featuring 4 engineered wood floors. Kitchen w/42” cabinets & tile 2 Bath with Pool backing up to conservation. This is a must Bedrooms, 2 1/2 Baths, Family Room w/Fireplace, a long floor. All 3 BRs are on the 2nd floor, w/2 full baths. This see! $200,000 pond view and much more. $179,900. unit is in the building that is closest to the comm. pool. HOA fees incl. water & sewer. $135,000
The Florida Mortgage Firm Due to growth throughout the state of Florida, Plant City Mortgage Corp. has changed to a more-fitting name New Name, Same Principles Lightning-Fast Process | Excellent Outbound Communication Unparalleled Customer Service | Low Interest Rates and Costs
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1507 S. Alexander St. Suite 101, | Plant City, FL 33563 | 813-707-6200
Jaida
Happy 8th Birthday,
This past year, we loved watching you enjoy so many “firsts”
First time seeing snow
ip
plane tr
First Air
First time kn eeboardin g and tubing
V.!
e on T.
im First t
u! her fun-filled year with yo ot an ve ha to it wa n’t ca e W of laughter and spunk! ll fu e ar d an de tsi ou d an inside You are beautiful on the XOXO We love you very much!
Daddy, Mommy, Paitlyn & Buster
FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MARCH 2014
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SPORTS
BLACK BELT MISSIONARY
MIXING THE MESSAGE WITH MARTIAL ARTS Article by Joe Bowles
involved with others, and his restaurant business was booming… but something was missing. Kevin, had been a Christian since 1972, but there had not been an awareness of what God wanted to do with him until one evening when he walked past a street preacher. “It’s a great thing you’re doing to protect people’s lives,” the street preacher said as he walked a few steps with Terry. “But it’s a better thing to keep people out of Hell.” In those few moments, Terry’s life changed. In a short while, he and his wife Maria, and children packed up and Terry enrolled at Oklahoma Baptist College. In four years, he graduated with a degree in Pastoral Theology. From there, Terry, his wife, and seven children traveled to Maria’s birthplace; Tecoman, Colima, Mexico to establish the Victory Baptist Church. In order to get people to check out his church, he offered free martial arts classes to anyone who came to his Sunday School. He also became a martial arts instructor to the police academy in exchange for the right to visit inmates in the prison system. A year later, in 1992, Terry started a college, the Victory Baptist Institute. Tragedy struck two years later when Terry’s eight-year-old daughter Rebecca drowned in a river during a church picnic. He and his family were devastated but continued their ministry in Mexico, and ironically, the church attendance exploded after the accident.
Kevin Terry mixes martial arts with the Gospel message. Photo by Joe Bowles
A
resident of Plant City since 2011, Kevin Terry has a love for life that is infectious. It’s not that life has always been easy, because although he has had his share of successes, those successes have also been tempered with heartache, as well.
After having enrolled in pre-med at Ohio State University in 1972, Terry became interested in linguistics, but was more enthralled with Chuck Norris, who at that time was recognized by Black Belt Magazine as Professional World Middleweight Champion in Tang Soo Do. So, Terry left college, hitchhiked to California and began Born into a military family, Terry’s father, to train at Norris’ studio. a Navy Captain, was transferred so often that Terry attended ten different schools At Norris’ studio, Terry became friends before he graduated in 1972. If not having with the studio’s chief instructor, Pat a permanent home wasn’t hard enough, Johnson, who was the stunt coordinator the stability that he did have was shattered on the Karate Kid movies. His association when his mother died when Terry was only with Johnson led Terry to use his martial seven-years-old. With bottled up anger, he arts skills as a stuntman in Hollywood. But, was constantly in fights with other kids. Terry was searching for additional ways to utilize his skills in helping others. At age thirteen, Terry was able to channel his anger into a karate program offered Early on, his life’s philosophy had at the naval base. By the time he was morphed into “Get involved with others.” seventeen, Kevin Terry had earned his black Terry discovered a sense of joy and peace belt in Tang Soo Do (Korean Karate). whenever he invested his life in others and
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so that is what he set out to do. In 1980, Terry organized and led the Hollywood division of the Guardian Angels, the red beret citizens group that patrolled the inner city streets in Los Angeles and Hollywood deterring crime and making the valley residents feel safer. In 1981 during Los Angeles’ bicentennial salute, Mayor Tom Bradley and his wife Ethel awarded Terry with the Humanitarian of the Year award. From there, Terry was interviewed numerous times on radio and TV. He appeared on the nationally syndicated Richard Simmons television show and in 1982, appeared in Death Wish II, a “crime thriller action movie” starring Charles Bronson, which became a box office hit. Terry was able to ride his beloved sport of karate into a measure of fame, he was
In 2001, Terry decided to continue his ministry in the states and moved to Haines City, then to Winter Haven, and now to Plant City. Since coming back to the states, Kevin has served as dean of academics, a schoolteacher, evangelist, martial arts instructor, and as a Spanish language teacher after he published “TNT Power Spanish,” a 200-page textbook/workbook that he guarantees will teach a person conversational Spanish in three months. Today, Kevin says that he is still involving himself with other people. “Investing my life so that others might succeed… that’s the joy of my life.” If anyone would like to make contact please email him at kevin52L@yahoo.com.
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Recreate PMS
SPORTS » ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
SPONSORED BY CHILI’S
Article by Deana Garrison
CHELSEA BAKER
3001 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City, FL 813-764-8548 www.chilis.com
A
t age five, Chelsea Baker began playing softball and decided one year later that she would join her stepbrothers, Chase and Cody Mason, and older brother Gary who played baseball. After all, it would make it easier on her parents to go to one field instead of two. Since Chase and Cody are the same age as Chelsea, they played together on the same team. It was that year she developed the love for baseball and started developing her skills. Throughout the years Chelsea has accomplished major achievements. She is well known in the area for the Knuckle ball taught to her by Joe Niekro at an early age. She seems to be well versed in pitching and fits right in with her team. This 16-year-old junior at Durant High School plays with the boys on the Varsity Baseball Team. The other players treat her with respect and according to Chelsea, “They treat me like one of the boys.” She has known many of them for a while, either playing with them or against them in Little League baseball throughout the years. Being one of the pitchers on the team Chelsea showed her stuff in the Saladino Tournament. She is the first female participant in varsity baseball in Hillsborough County to play in the Saladino Tournament and pitched the first 5 innings, helping Durant beat Lennard with a six to one win. Chelsea has played all over the U.S. in many tournaments and this summer looks forward to her invite in North Carolina to tryout for the U.S.A. National Women’s Baseball team in hopes to compete in the World Cup held in Japan. If she is chosen, this will not be Chelsea’s first time in that country. In fact, on her last visit she was asked to return to play professional baseball is there. Her future is definitely bright and she will have many decisions to make along her successful way. When asked about obstacles that try to get in her way, Chelsea says many people are very supportive; however, there have been a few with negative words. She doesn’t let that stand in the way of her goals. In fact, at every transition of her baseball career, some have said, “Oh, this will be it. She won’t go any further.” Well, she certainly stayed on top of her goals and proved them wrong. You won’t find her bragging though. This very humble baseball player who has achieved so much looks at her experiences as just another day. When you look at all she has experienced and achieved…it is amazing.
Photo courtesy of Rod Mason
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Congratulations to Chelsea for not being a follower and always taking the lead to achieve her goals. We at FOCUS can’t wait to see what her future holds.
Shiloh Baptist Church
Discover Something Different!! COME JOIN US Sunday School for all ages 9:00 a.m. Sunday morning worship services 10:15 a.m. Sunday night service/small groups 5:30 p.m. Sunday Children’s Choir 5:30 pm. Wednesday Adult Service – 6:15 p.m. Youth Service – 6:00 p.m. Children’s AWANA – 6:00 p.m.
We are different at Shiloh…Come and see! For more information call us at 813-752-8345. 905 W.Terrace Drive, Plant City, FL 33563 DiscoverSomethingDifferent.com
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SENIORS OF THE MONTH DHARA PATEL
By Ashlyn Yarbrough
“S
imply brilliant” doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface in describing 18-year-old Dhara Patel. This PCHS Senior of the Month exceeds in her academics and leadership while having a humble and compassionate heart. Dhara has soared above and beyond in her schoolwork. With an unbelievable GPA of 10.031, she is ranked first in her class and sets the record for highest GPA in PCHS history! Throughout her high school years, Dhara has had an overwhelming schedule full of AP classes and duel enrolment courses at HCC. When her senior year comes to a close, she will not only leave Plant City with a high school diploma, but with her associate’s degree in liberal arts as well. In the fall, she plans on attending the University of Florida and majoring in Microbiology with hopes of becoming a dentist or orthodontist. Dhara’s parents, Dipak and Dhaeana, and brother Parphik (19) are extremely proud of this spectacular young lady.
FAVORITES
School subject – Math Book – The Fault in Our Stars Hobby – Community service Store – Express Band – Imagine Dragons Song – “Hey Brother” by Avichii Movie – anything by Nicolas Sparks TV Show – Modern Family Food – Italian Quote – “Patience is a virtue.” Team – Tampa Bay Bucs
WILLIAM COLLINS
W
illiam Christopher Collins, commonly known as Chris, is an aspiring leader within his school and community. He has earned a 4.27 GPA, and has been granted early acceptance to Florida Agriculture and Mechanical University Business School. He plans to attend FAMU in the fall and obtain a degree in Business Administration. Chris has been an instrumental part of the Junior Varsity and Varsity basketball teams throughout high school and is this year’s Varsity team captain. He is also involved in many community activities that impact youth. He has been a mentor and coach at Raider Camp for the past 4 years, a referee and mentor for Optimist Youth Basketball for the past 4 years, and also an active member of his church and the ministries there. He is actively involved in the Jack and Jill Foundation, which is a program that promotes preparing children to be leaders regardless of their backgrounds, so they can contribute to society in a positive manner. He has also been a member of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and the Baby Rattlers club at PCHS.
With such academic accomplishments, you would think Dhara spends all of her time studying; however, you would be utterly mistaken. Dhara is the president of FBLA and the Science Club, Secretary of Raider Buddies, Vice President of Civinettes, and Captain of the Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus, and Calculus Team for PCHS Mu Alpha Theta. She is also a member of the National Honors Society, Environmental Team, HOSA, PCHS 1290 Club, and the Senior Class Executive Board. Not only is she a member of all of these clubs, she has won numerous competitions and awards through them. Shockingly, Dhara’s schedule doesn’t end there. Between school, college, and organizations, she still makes time to serve the community. She has spent hours volunteering at Ambika Corporation, Special Olympics, and South Florida Baptist Hospital. Dhara’s heart of gold is a quality that is definitely admired by many. PCHS is very fortunate to be home to such a brilliant servant leader. Dhara Patel’s outstanding achievements, unreal academics, and altruism are what make her a superb PCHS Senior of the Month.
By Gresham Stephens
In total he has served our community with over 200+ hours of documented community service. Chris is excited about graduating from PCHS and attending FAMU. While majoring in Business Administration there he plans on playing college basketball and working hard to earn good grades. His ultimate dream would be playing in the NBA. He is a student with goals and dreams, not only for himself, but for the community he grew up in. We are honored that William is representing Plant City High School as the Senior of the Month.
FAVORITES
Subject: Math Sports Team: UCONN Boys Basketball Team Book: Toughness Restaurant: Outback Hobbies: Basketball Quote: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 Store: Champs Band/Artist: Chief Keef Song: Happy-Pharrell Movie: More Than a Game TV Show: The Game Food: Bacon Cheeseburger Hangout Spot in PC: YMCA FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MARCH 2014
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EXTRA » AUTO REVIEW
A LUXURY SEDAN WITH CHARACTER
BMW 5 SERIES FITS THE BILL Column by Brian West
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have spent much time behind the wheel on BMWs. The last time was to review their new 2 series, which really just lowered the entry level for those wanting a BMW. This month I got behind the wheel of one much higher in their product line – the 550i.
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On the exterior, BMW continues to hold true to its roots, with ever so slight refinements to the lines each year. BMW has been so consistent in the evolution, it might be interesting to place all the photos of a series (pick one) from its debut to today and see just how animate they are. If you look at a BMW from the 70s or 80s, the lines are so square compared to today, it will be very interesting to see where the brand evolves to in the next 20 years. This “ultimate driving machine” continues to deliver on so many different levels. The headlights are more “visible” with their daytime accents. The headlights even steer into the corners. The hood has also been given a more aggressive angle to help with wind resistance, which increases fuel economy. The interior is beautiful. Two words: Napa leather. Not only is it beautiful, it really makes for a comfortable ride. Although seating is for four, you could get three in the back seat, but it would be tight or the one in the middle better be small. The 20way multi-contour front seats are amazing. It’s like an adjustable bed with seemingly
unlimited control. They’ve also integrated a control system with apps that will do everything – even find local restaurants and make reservations. They’ve also been careful to streamline the system so tasks are completed with the fewest possible choices as the driver moves through the menu system. Not short on horsepower, the 550i boast 445hp from a 4.4 liter V8 twin turbo engine. Trust me, 445hp is plenty. If you find yourself still wanting more power, maybe you should be looking for something much more sporty, but not a luxury sedan. The BMW 550i is designed to be an everyday driver, but for someone that needs a higher end vehicle for adults. The 550i is simply fun to drive. It accelerates exceptionally well, the handling is fantastic and the braking is powerful. This is a car that could spoil most any driver – event the Charles Harris’ of the world. I can’t imagine this sedan getting boring on even the longest of road trips. It could only enhance the experience. If you’re in the market for a new luxury sedan, you’ll be missing an opportunity if you don’t give the 5 series a test drive. The 550i will really make you step back and rethink what you want in a luxury sedan. Visit Fields BMW and tell them you read about the 5 series in Focus Magazine.
EXTRA » DEREK MAUL
WEIGHING IN ON HOME SCHOOL EDUCATION Column by Derek Maul the world?” I’d say. “We can’t do that if we pull our kids out and leave the others to founder.”
The flaw in my argument – and I’m sure you have already taken note – is that our primary calling as parents is to raise our children, and to launch them, well-equipped, to make a positive difference in this world.
I
Therefore, what is right for our children is always the best choice. And homeschooling (especially when your mother has enjoyed careers as Navy pilot, school teacher, and manager in industry) can often provide exactly what children need at a particular point in their preparation for life.
t’s not often that I write about education. As a teacher with almost two decades experience in Florida’s public schools, I really could have more to say. Maybe I’m saving it all for that “tell-all,” “truth is stranger than fiction,” “whistle-blowing” book on the world of exceptional education. Because that’s what we’re all about as Seriously, friends, it would be one heck of parents; we’re all about the business of preparing our children for life. Not a an eye-opener! carbon-copy of our life; not the life “the But today I’m going to share a few thoughts state” has planned, or that an assembly line about home schooling. My friend Margie education system imagines; but their life, stopped by with her three children, and the life God envisioned from the moment we talked extensively about their “Home they were conceived as a brilliant and creative idea in the mind of their Creator. School on the Road” adventure. Starting last summer from their in St. Paul, Minnesota, my friend is taking the children on a series of road trips covering the entire USA. Last month they took the swing south. They’re more than covering their core curriculum; they’re taking in geography, history, literature, and science exactly where (and sometimes as) it happens.
A WORD:
So here’s my word for you, Scott, Olivia, Amy, and any other home schooled student who may be reading. Are you ready? God first conceived you as a brilliant and creative idea, and then you were launched into this world under the care of your parents, who are now doing everything they can to One of the kids’ assignments is a series of prepare you to shine in your own, unique, interviews. So, around our dining room ways. table, Rebekah and I were grilled extensively by Amy (5th grade), Olivia (7th) and Scott The whole point of this is so that you can (8th). The students asked thoughtful, live not only as examples of light and life, intelligent, questions, and were genuinely but to actually be bright points of light that help show the way for others. One of my interested in what we had to say. favorite writers, Paul, put it this way in a letter to his friends in Philippi.
IDEALISM
Years ago, when idealism was my sole reference point, I spoke out against private schools and home schooling. My theory (and it still has traction) was that intelligent, motivated, caring people pulling their kids out of public education simply exacerbates whatever is wrong with the schools in the first place.
“Among these people you shine like stars in the world, because you hold on to the word of life.” (Philippians 2:15-16 CEB) I look forward to following your career as people of light, people who hold on to the word of life, people who shine – DEREK
Keep up with Derek’s writing at www. “Isn’t our calling to be salt and light in derekmaul.com FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MARCH 2014
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EXTRA » CANDY’S CORNER
CANDY’S CORNER Column by Candy Owens
in Plant City crowned Strawberry Festival Queen.
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I thought it might be fun to recall some memories of how the Strawberry Festival has changed over the years. When I was a little girl back in the 1960s and 1970s the most popular event was the crowning of the Strawberry Festival Queen. I can remember how exciting it was to be bundled up in the grandstand watching the contestants strolled across the stage one by one, smelling all the yummy food in the air, looking to the left and watching the Ferris Wheel go round and round, hearing the faint screams of people on rides, and the sky, there was always the most beautiful sky just filled with stars. I can remember how the finalists who made the court would walk out on stage with their beautiful white gowns flowing in the wind, their shoulder length white gloves, and their dramatic hair.
t is hard to believe another Strawberry Festival has come and gone. The 79th Annual Florida Strawberry Festival that is. The very first Strawberry Festival was conceived for and dedicated to the glorification of the strawberry and was held here in Plant City, March 12-15, 1930. Since that time our beloved festival has become one of the best in the nation and now ranks among the top 40 fairs in North Through the years I have seen some beautiful hairdos come across the stage, but America. there were some just too fantastic to forget. In my 51 years as a Plant City resident I There was Sylvia Azorin and her cold black have proudly walked many miles around hair in 1968, Dee Zoet’s perfect platinum the Strawberry Festival grounds, watched blonde flip in 1969, and then there was many festival parades pass by, participated Sherrie. The girl with the pageant hair of all in the festival parades, the shoe box float pageant hair was 1971s Sherrie Chambers contest, volunteered at the information Mueller. When Sherrie walked out on booth, and even churned homemade stage she looked so beautiful she could have butter alongside my fellow Brownie troop stopped traffic. Her hair was so perfect it members to hand out to passersby. I have looked like a combination of Rachel Welch watched many babies crowned King and and Ursula Andress with some Marlo Queen of the baby parade. I have eaten Thomas thrown in. I will, as-long-as I live, corndogs, French fries, cotton candy, candy never forget that hair. apples, roasted corn, hamburgers, popcorn, fudge, strawberry ice cream, and the world’s best strawberry shortcake, and have loved every bite. I have watched dancers dance and heard singers sing, and watched stars entertain the audiences on stage before they were stars, and I have watched many beautiful young ladies walk across the stage in hopes of becoming the next Strawberry Festival Queen. I find it hard to believe that our once little Strawberry Festival has grown from a few acres of land near Jackson Elementary to a 100-acre site that welcomes 500,000 guests easily. Well our little festival may be growing bigger than our wildest dreams, but there is nothing better than walking around the fair eating all the yummy food, visiting with old friends, and watching the luckiest girl
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together on stage in their evening gowns. The Master of Ceremonies was Mr. Bob Lastinger. (there were no crown bearers or any children in the program. They had been discontinued and I guess that just was not in style any more.) They called out the girls’ names in order of their place in the court. Fifth runner up: Julie Wills, Fourth runner up: Barbara Fulford, Third runner up: Amy Carpenter, First runner up: Molly Dull, and then they called out the name of the new 1977 Strawberry Festival Queen: Karen Ann Owens! “Hip-HipHooray!” My sister was queen. I watched along with my parents as the 1976 Queen Martha Lastinger placed the shiny crown on my sister’s head. Now that….was an unforgettable year.
Hull Jewelers, Tatum & Johnson’s, Elston Insurance Agency, Jack Camp Realtor, and McGinnes Lumber Company.
The Entertainment that year included: Bobby Goldsboro, Doug Kershaw, Dusty Rhodes, Mel Tillis, Barbara Mandrell, and the FSU Flying Circus. There was also the Strawberry Recipe Cook-Off at the Arthur Boring Building with a chance to win the Grand Prize – a frost-free Freezer or Micro-Wave Oven. The slogans that year were: Blue Grass shows nightly, Continuous Demonstrations and Contests in the Neighborhood Village, Fresh Strawberry Show and Auction Daily, the Petting Zoo, Show Tent around-the-clock entertainment, and “Don’t leave until you meet Mr. Strawberry.” General Admission I looked at the program from my sister’s was $2.00. Gates opened daily at 11:00 reign to see how things have changed over a.m., except Sunday at 1:00 p.m. the years. That year the awards and gifts were as follows: A $500.00 scholarship to It is hard to believe another Strawberry H.C.C. was given to the queen and each Festival has come and gone. The 79th of the four remaining court members were Annual Strawberry Festival, that is. What given $125.00 scholarships; A beautiful I find harder to believe is that back in evening gown for each of the five court 1930 that tiny committee and that little members to be used on parade trips; A piece of land that was dedicated to the beautiful trophy to each of the court glorification of the Strawberry would grow members; A crown to the Queen. B.M. into something that would bring so much Smith Motors would furnish a new car for happiness and change so many people’s the personal use of the 1977 Queen for 30 lives forever. People have come from miles around to our beloved festival and had their days. first date, their first kiss, tasted their first I thought it might also be fun to list some Strawberry Shortcake, won their first blue of the many sponsors in the program: Wells ribbon, seen their first star, and been turned Colonial Chapel, Plant City Snack Shop, from an everyday ordinary person in to a Powell’s Buick and Pontiac, Hemphill genuine Strawberry Queen. Groves, Blake’s Westside Pharmacy, First National Bank of Plant City, Colony Shops, Plant City may be a small town on the map, Haynes Funeral Home, Bill Gunn Jewelers, but we sure have some smart people with Parkecrest Restaurant, The Other Brother, some life-changing ideas. Gino’s Pizza, Jack Ramsey Motors, Edgar
In 1977 my sister Karen Ann Owens was chosen Queen of the 42nd Annual Strawberry Festival and Hillsborough County Fair. The theme was “Green and Growing” and was run by Mrs. Louise Gibbs, who was the General Manager and Mr. E.O.”DAVVY” Davenport, who served as Assistant-Manager. The Officers were: Jack Dempsey-President, Mac Smith-Vice President, Jim Redman-Secretary, and Mac Hooper-Treasurer. The pageant was held in the auditorium of Tomlin Jr. High where the contestants were narrowed down to the top 10 finalists. The final selection was done at 7:00 p.m. the opening night of the festival where the girls competed in evening gowns, swimsuits, talent, and interview competitions. When it was time for the crowning they had all 10 finalists standing The 1976 Queen Martha Lastinger Futch crowning the 1977 Queen Karen Owens Romero
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EXTRA » ARTIST OF THE MONTH
JESSICA AND KATHERINE ALEPIN
FIRST AND SECOND PLACE AT THE FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL ART SHOW
S
everal years ago I had the opportunity to interview local Plant City artist, Anna Alepin. She had by her side her two five-year-old twins, Jessica and Katherine Alepin. Little did I realize that just five short years later I would be writing about these two young girls who are now becoming artists in their own right.
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This year both Jessica and Katherine Alepin placed first and second place at the Florida Strawberry Festival Art Show in the 9 to 11 age group. As amazing as is the artwork of Jessica and Katherine, what is even more impressive is the passion, creativity, and love for life that these two young girls possess. Both girls are fourth graders who are homeschooled by their mother Anna. Art and creativity are always a part of their daily routine and is embraced in a wholehearted and loving way. Although Jessica and Katherine are twins and share similarities, they both possess a uniqueness that is all their own. Jessica is deeply spiritual and pays close attention to details. Her artwork of Mother and Child, which took first place at the Strawberry Festival portrays Mary and Baby Jesus. Jessica’s drawing is very detailed, colorful, and shows spirituality and depth perhaps beyond her years.
Article by Heather Davis Katherine is the animal lover. She loves all animals but is particularly drawn to dolphins. Her affinity with dolphins began with a visit to see the dolphin Winter at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Since that time Katherine has been drawing dolphins non-stop. Her drawing which placed second at the Strawberry Festival is titled “Sneaky” and depicts dolphins in a bold, playful, and fun loving way. Katherine’s dolphin drawing was purchased by an art lover at the festival which also led to her receiving a commission to complete a drawing of manatees. Katherine and Jessica’s love of art also extends to their younger six-year-old sister Gabriella, who loves to participate in art right alongside her older sisters. Gabriella, or “Gabby” as she is called, also entered her first piece, a bright and vibrant watercolor painting in the Strawberry Festival Art show this year. Love of art runs deep in the Alepin family, but not as deep as the love and compassion they have and demonstrate for one another and others. After spending the evening in the presence of the Alepin girls, Katherine and Jessica, I was deeply touched and inspired and my heart was lifted up with hope and joy.
EXTRA » WANDA’S WORDS
WANDA’S WORDS
OF WISDOM
MARCH EDITION I
t seems I always have an over abundance of plastic grocery bags. The best place I have found to store them is in empty tissue boxes. Just fill the tissue boxes with your plastic grocery bags and pull them out individually, it works great.
Column by Wanda “Lewis” Anderson
is perfect for pouring and creating animal shapes and Mickey Mouse pancakes. Simply pour your prepared pancake mix in your clean empty ketchup bottle and enjoy creating fun shapes, animals and yes Mick Mouse pancakes for the kid in us all.
My grandkids love drawing pictures and I post them on my refrigerator but, I notice that they sometimes fade. You can lightly spray hair spray on the drawings to make Speaking of plastic…those plastic them last longer. This is especially good promotional cards or reward cards you for chalk drawings to keep them from receive in the mail or from various stores smudging. don’t throw them away, they come in handy when washing dishes. You can use them to I love real butter and I usually have it in my scrap the harden foods off pots and pans. It refrigerator at all times. I normally throw out the wrappers that the sticks are wrapped works great on casseroles dishes too. in but, not anymore. You can use them to When my kids were little I used to attempt grease your baking pans. So, next time you to make animal shaped pancakes. It wasn’t un-wrap a stick of butter store the wrappers always easy and I usually ended up making in a plastic container or bag and refrigerate. odd shape figures that in no way resembled Then when it’s time to bake you have the animals. It seems the pancake mix when wrappers to grease your baking pans. poured would spread too quickly. Then I discovered that an empty ketchup bottle Dental flow, we all use it or at least we should but, it has a dual purpose. You can use dental flow to sew on buttons. It’s great in repairing your outdoor cushions, tents and umbrella’s. It’s stronger than thread so it will last a lot longer. Until next time relax, enjoy and be thankful…
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D & E » DINING PROFILE
SMOKIN’ ACES BBQ
PLANT CITY DINING PROFILE
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arning to our readers: If you haven’t discovered the food prepared by the Smokin’ Aces BBQ family yet, you’ll be headed there very soon. Word of mouth and Facebook posts have boosted the Jordan family’s business into what has quickly become the talk of the town for foodies.
Profile by Cheryl Johnston
looking for the next new thing for BBQing.” In 2012, with the support of his wife Patricia (still working full-time in retail), and his sons Josh and Robbie and daughter Jennifer, the family opened for business on the US 92/County Line Road corner near Mozart Designs. With more than 2,000 loyal fans, Jordan learned at Christmastime his business, located on county property, would have to relocate.
But Robert Jordan knows that without the help of Jerry and Mo at Mozart Designs and Joe Keel of Keel & Curley Winery, the Thankfully, Joe Keel had been looking acclaim Smokin’ Aces has received wouldn’t for a food vendor serious enough to be be possible. open regularly at his winery and brewing company on Branch Forbes Road. “I can’t say enough about what these folks have done for us, by allowing us to set up on “It’s been a tremendous boost,” said their properties.” Jordan. “We live five minutes away and the customers have been wonderful. We’re After 20-plus years in the automotive working harder than we’ve ever worked, but industry, Jordan was ready for a change. we’re loving every minute.” His family and friends Tammy and Chad Gasaway encouraged him to pursue his If you ask those customers, the real success passion for grilling. story is the fresh made food.
we’re preparing, I’m involved. We want to serve the very best and we want customers to return with their friends. Seeing their smiles and hearing how they love the food makes it all worthwhile.”
beef with sauce, shredded cheese and bacon on a 5-inch bun, the Jordans offer their undisputed king of BBQ sandwiches, the Royal Flush. The one-pound meal contains beef brisket, pulled pork, grilled chicken breast, five slices of bacon, cole slaw, and Some of the most popular menu selections BBQ ranch sauce on a 5” bun. are: Smokin’ Aces is also the only place in Plant Taco Tuesdays: $2 tacos all day; specify City serving the famous “Pat Lafrieda steak beef brisket, pulled pork, chicken breast, burgers.” The delicious inch-thick meat or veggies with toppings of pico de gallo, combines half-pund each of Black Angus shredded cheese, sour cream, and your sauce chuck and Black Angus short ribs on a preference. kaiser roll, topped off with bourbon bacon, Smoky Ghost Pepper Jack Cheese and Wing Wednesday: Jumbo “Kings’ Grilled Smokin’ Aces BBQ sauce. Wings for just $.75 each, tossed in choice of nine Sweet Baby Ray’s signature Unusual, but very popular since no one sauces—BBQ, Buffalo, Citrus Chipotle, else offers it, is the Smoked Gator Sausage Garlic Parmesan, Gold, Honey Chipotle, Sandwich, with sautéed onions, peppers, Sweet Red Chili and Sweet Teriyaki. garlic and Citrus Chipotle BBQ sauce.
“Some collect cars, tools or sports “We are not pushing a button on a memorabilia,” Jordan explained. “I’ve always microwave,” explained Jordan. “Because I’m had four to six grills and was constantly teaching my sons, it doesn’t matter what In addition to the incredible tacos and Smokin’Aces caters as well, so plan your wings, the most popular item on Friday and party now. Saturday nights is the Loaded BBQ Frito Nachos. Robert Jordan is grateful for his BBQ success. “It’s been a real blessing to be Available sides include such items as BBQ able to serve Joe’s customers at Keel & Baked Beans, Macaroni & Cheese, Potato Curley and Two Henrys Brewing,” he said. Salad, the exceptionally healthy Grilled “Without the support of their business to Vegetable Medley, Cole Slaw, Corn on ours, we might not be grilling and growing. the Cob, Collard Greens and the always I can’t express thanks enough.” popular, seasoned Grilled Green Beans. The Grilled Vegetable Medley combines zucchini, squash, grape tomatoes, vidalia onions, snow peas, and bell peppers seasoned with a mixture of spices in olive oil. The new Cedar Plank Atlantic Salmon is cooked atop a wood plank soaked for six hours in Keel & Curley’s signature key lime wine and served with colby jack scalloped potatoes and grilled vegetables. This dinner is a surefire winner. Smokin’ Aces BBQ serves its exclusive Smoked Gator Sausage Sandwich with sautéed onions, peppers, garlic and Citrus Chipotle BBQ sauce.
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In addition to the half-pound Full House sandwich selections of chicken, pork or
INFORMATION Smokin’ Aces BBQ 5202 W. Thonotosassa Road (@Keel & Curley Winery off Branch Forbes Rd; Exit 17 North off I-4 Plant City, FL 33565 813-704-1374 Visit Facebook for updates/specials Hours: 11am-9pm Tuesday-Thursday 11am-11pm Friday/Saturday 11am-8pm Sunday Closed Mondays
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D & E » RECIPE OF THE MONTH
N.O. OYSTERS
RECIPE OF THE MONTH Recipe by Gail Jones
Savannah’s Oys ter Pie
1 doz en shucked oysters , liquor reserved 6 tablespoons butter
1 leek, halved cleaned and thinly sliced 2 stalks celery thinly sliced 8 ounces sliced mushrooms 2 cloves garlic minced Salt and pepper
1 cup half and half
1 pie shell pre baked at 350 for 15 minutes 12 to15 crushed saltines mixed with ½ teaspoon onion powder, black pepper and dried thyme
I
’ll never forget the first time I ate an oyster. I was about 13 and my family was camping on the Chesapeake in Virginia with three other families. My father had taken several of us kids out on a boat to do a little crabbing. I adored steamed crabs. As a matter of fact I adored seafood of all kinds, so when Dad jumped into the water and emerged with what looked like a lumpy grey rock that he popped open with a pen knife, I was curious. “Who’s brave enough to give it a try?” he asked. Three teenaged faces stared back at him blankly. And then I realized it was a challenge I couldn’t pass up. An opportunity for me to prove my bravery and impress my father. I took the half shell that cupped the glistening, still-live creature from Dad and braced myself. But really, how bad could it be?
Flash forward another quarter century and I am in New Orleans with my teen age daughter who is notoriously finicky about seafood. She likes crab legs, but not crab cakes, salmon but no other fish, and shrimp if they are fried. Oysters have never even been an option. We had ducked into a little dive on Royal Street to escape the cold rain that had been falling for three days running, and grabbed a little table against a wall. She ordered a sandwich and I asked for the baked oysters. They arrived, six shells with a blanket of bronzed bread crumbs and smelling of butter, garlic and something briny and primal. My daughter watched as I tucked in. They were simple, but delicious.
“Can I try one?” she asked reaching her fork across the table. “Um, sure you can,” I hesitated. “You know there’s an oyster under there don’t you?” But too late she had forked up one of the The answer was that it could be really, smaller of the bunch and was thoughtfully really bad. Slimy, slick and salty…I tried to chewing. chew it as my face registered sheer horror. My father’s face on the other hand was “Delicious,” she proclaimed as her fork thoroughly amused. slipped back across the table. We shared oysters, lunch and dinner, for “Stop chewing it. Just swallow,” he chuckled. the remainder of our trip and when we And I obeyed. Finally it was over, but not returned to Florida, she got cooking and forgotten. The taste stayed with me for years devised quite possibly, the best oyster pie and I would be in college, trying to impress recipe I have ever sampled. In the month a different young man before I ate another since our trip, she has knocked out four of oyster…steamed this time…and much to them, and while it is fantastic fresh from the my surprise, I loved it. oven, it also reheats well for a quick lunch… or breakfast…or just for the heck of it.
Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a skillet . Add leeks, celery, mushrooms and garlic and sauté until soft. Season with salt and pepper. Add three additional tablespoons of butter to melt. Incorporate 3/4 cup of flour and stir 5-6 minutes to form a roux. Slowly add 1 cup half and half and two tablespoons of reserved oyster liquor stirring continuously to form a smooth consis tency. Turn off heat and add oysters. Test for seasoning. Turn mixture into pre-baked pie shell and top with crushed saltine mixture. Bake for 30-45 minutes until center is semi-solid. Let sit for 15 minutes to firm.
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NOW SERVING LUNCH EVERY DAY Weekday lunch is the newest way to experience the best of Carrabba’s. Enjoy perfectly prepared lunches, like a soup that cooks all day and fresh, innovative salads like our Johnny Rocco. Every day just got more delicious.
* FREE APPETIZER with the purchase of a lunch entrée
(Choose between Zucchini Fritte, Arancini or Calamari)
*Free appetizer with the purchase of a lunch entrée. Offer valid only at the Plant City Carrabba’s Italian Grill®. Zucchini Fritte, Arancini or Calamari may be substituted for an item of equal or lesser value. Limit one offer per table, per visit. Dine-in only. No reproductions will be accepted. Distribution of this coupon belongs exclusively to authorized representatives of Carrabba’s Italian Grill, LLC and/or its affiliates. Carrabba’s® strictly prohibits the reproduction of this coupon in any form or the sale or exchange of it in any forum. Coupon will not be replaced if lost or stolen. No cash value. EXPIRES 6/30/14. COMP 2
14cigMKTG0489
PLANT CITY • 1205 Townsgate • (813) 752-0760
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» DINING GUIDE
FIND DEALS ONLINE AT MYFOCUSCOUPONS.COM
SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT
CHANCY’S CATFISH SHACK
S
erving Plant City for over 20 years. Our southern style seafood house covers every desire, from catfish, grouper, codfish, jumbo shrimp and gator to frog legs, just to name a few! BUT WAIT...we’re not just seafood. We have babyback ribs, steak, cheese sandwiches, pulled BBQ sandwiches, ruebens, and cuban sandwiches along with many southern sides like fried okra. Plus we have the best fried green tomatoes around, as well as fried pickle chips, hushpuppies and many more to choose from!
2509 NORTH PARK ROAD 813-754-3433
CHILI’S
C
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 to 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, you’re always welcome at Chili’s.
3001 JAMES L REDMAN PARKWAY PLANT CITY, FL 33566 813-764-8548 • WWW.CHILIS.COM
LINDA’S CRAB SHACK
“G
et Your Crabs and Beer!” If you are looking for a place with 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
OLDE TOWN PIZZERIA
I
f you love deep-dish pizza, Olde Town Pizzeria is the only place around to find it. The cheesy Chicago-style pizza is a popular item on the menu, as well as the award-winning Strawberry Walnut Salad and thin crust pizzas. In addition, they have an array of delicious pastas, salads and sandwiches to satisfy all taste buds. This family-owned and operated restaurant is a Plant City favorite for those who love high quality food and friendly service.
3011 JAMES L REDMAN PARKWAY PLANT CITY, FL 33566 (813) 752-5800 • WWW.OLDETOWNPIZZERIA.COM
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» DINING GUIDE
FIND DEALS ONLINE AT MYFOCUSCOUPONS.COM
SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT
PLANT CITY HOMETOWN BUFFET
P
lant City Hometown Buffet is a family owned and operated business started by Elaine Vo, a resident of Plant City for the last 24 years. They offer a wide variety of items spanning the five buffet bars, including seafood and steak. There is certainly something to fit every taste preference, 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
TACO REY
W
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
an Voted Best Cubw! ro a in 6 years y! t Cit Thank You Plan
VOTED BEST CUBAN
Handmade Milkshakes
with real Strawberries, Pineapple, Peanut Butter, Oreos and more.
NEW EXTENDED HOURS! d Gif t Cards an s ay Par ty Tr Available
We are open from 6:30a.m - 6:30p.m Mon - Sat.
1505 N. Wheeler St. Plant City, FL 33563
813-752-3779 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
WE WON’T ASK YOU TO SUPER SIZE YOUR COMBO CAUSE IT ALREADY IS.
Try our Homade Spanish Bean Soup, Fresh Chef and Greek Salads
FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MARCH 2014
103
Featuring Daily Specials $4.75 Breakfast 2 Eggs, Choice of Bacon or Sausage,
Choice of Grits, Hash Browns or Home Fries Toast
Hamburger w/French Fries
$4.75 Hours: Mon-Sat. 6 am- 2 pm Sun 7 am- 2 pm 113
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813.752.8946 Take Out Available
W. Prosser Drive,
PARKESDALE’S SWEET LINE UP
1
Strawberry Shortcake
2
3
Sundae Boat
4
(Strawberries and Vanilla Ice Cream)
Strawberry Shortcake & Ice Cream
5
Berries and Cream
Milkshakes Voted Best Drinkable Dessert by Food Network
VOTED BEST MILKSHAKE AND STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE
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
FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MARCH 2014
105
1
can’t miss
event
Mark your calendars for Plant City’s annual fight against cancer to take place on Friday, April 11 (6 p.m.) at Plant City High School (1 Raider Place). This local American Cancer Society Relay for Life event is a great place to take action and make noise. The Relay for Life movement offers and inspiring opportunity to honor cancer survivors, promote how individuals can reduce their cancer risk, and raise money to help end cancer. Today, without the support of thousands of volunteers around the country, the American Cancer Society is helping save more than 400 lives a day. Join the over 50 teams and 650 participants who have already signed up for the cause and raised almost $50,000. For more information, contact allison.martinez@cancer.org.
OFFICE SPACE Executive Offices BRANDON As low as $400 per month (including electricity, water and wireless internet)
Meeting Room Usage Professional Environment Quick Access to Major Roadways (Crosstown Expressway, Hwy. 60, I-75 & I-4) 330 Pauls Drive (South of Oakfield Dr.)
Contact Amber at 813-689-1221
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MARCH
22 SATURDAY
Youth Fishing Derby Gordon Food Service Dr, just behind the Randy L. Larson Softball Four-Plex Registration | 7:30 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. Competition | 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Award Ceremony | 11:15 a.m. Open to all boys and girls ages 5 to 15, the 2014 Youth Fishing Derby marks the 18th year of fishing derbies hosted by the Plant City Recreation and Parks Department. All anglers must be accompanied by an adult and must bring their own pole, bait, and 5-gallon bucket. Pond features at least nine species of fish from bass, catfish, mudfish, speckled perch, blue gill, and more. Event is free thanks to T.J. Vail at Landshark Charters. For more information, contact Deborah Haldane at dhaldane@plantcitygov.com or 813-659-4200 ext. 4302. You can also visit the event’s page online at plantcitygov.com. Filling the Toolbox: Bringing Direction for the Discouraged Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Plant City 9 a.m. to noon 1107 Charlie Griffin Road Are you a parent, coach or teacher of a child who suffered early trauma or disruption? This session offered by ONE for One Families focuses on specific interventions for a variety of problematic behaviors:Lying, Stealing, Aggression, Defiance, Destruction, and Disrespect. Loryn Smith, founder and CEO of Finally Home Christian Adoption Services, is the mother of multiple older adopted children and specializes in child placements as well
APRIL
01 TUESDAY
Sun-N-Fun Fly-in - Starts SUN ‘n FUN International Fly-In & Expo 4175 Medulla Rd., Lakeland Join the world’s biggest aviation enthusiasts during a week filled with tons of family friendly activities featuring plenty of planes, hot air balloons, and much more. General admission tickets are $37 per day for adults, $15 for youth ages 11-17, and children 10 and under get in free. Or purchase a weekly admission band for $150 for adults and $60 for youth ages 11-17. For more information on all the event has to offer, check out sun-n-fun.org.
04 FRIDAY
Plant City Community Choir’s Night of Spirituals and Other Songs of Inspiration Concert Holy Innocent’s Episcopal Church | 7:30 p.m. 604 N. Valrico Rd., Valrico Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door and $8 in advance and $10 at the door for seniors. Purchase your tickets at the Plant City Chamber of Commerce or St. Clement Catholic Church. For more information, contact 813-781-9674.
as family coaching for families struggling to parent difficult children. Cost is $30 and spouse is free. Partial scholarships are available. For more inforamtion or to register, email deborahschreffler@yahoo.com or call 813-924-3322.
27 THURSDAY
March Madness Reverse Raffle Keel and Curley Winery | 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. 5210 Thonotosassa Road Join the Plant City Chamber of Commerce during a night full of fun with live music from Casey Stidham. Cost is $50 per person which includes one reverse raffle ticket, two glasses of wine or craft beer, and heavy hors d’oeurves. Object of the reverse raffle is to NOT have your ticket called. Last person standing will receive the $1,500 grand prize. A $50 and $100 prize will also be awarded in addition to plenty of gift cards and other special prizes. Event will also include a silent auction and cash bar. For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact the Chamber at 813-754-3707 or amy@ plantcity.org.
29 SATURDAY
Tampa Bay Blueberry Festival Pageant Keel and Curley Winery 5210 Thonotosassa Roa Along with participants competing in several age categories, this year’s event will feature a Little King section for boys 2-6. For more information, contact Julie Hasting at juliehasting@gmail.com.
05 SATURDAY
Spring Women’s Gathering Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Plant City | 1 to 3 p.m. 1107 Charlie Griffin Road Wife of the new senior pastor, Rachel Lawry, will be sharing her journey from her weakness to His strength. A dessert and coffee fellowship will follow. Nursery will be provided. For more information or to inquire about the nursery, please call 813-759-9383. Plant City Community Choir’s Night of Spirituals and Other Songs of Inspiration Concert St. Clement Catholic Church | 7:30 p.m. 1104 N. Alexander St. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door and $8 in advance and $10 at the door for seniors. Purchase your tickets at the Plant City Chamber of Commerce or St. Clement Catholic Church. For more information, contact 813-781-9674.
11 FRIDAY
Children’s Classic Golf Tournament Walden Lake Golf and Country Club 2001 Clubhouse Dr. For more information, contact the Chamber at 813-754-3707.
J
M
C
C
C
THE HERBAN COWBOY Herbal Products & Gifts
118 W. Reynolds St. Plant City, Florida 33563 Historic Downtown 813-704-1376 www.aherbancowboy.com
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 2014
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FOCUSOBITUARIES
Kathy Darlene Brown, 48 of Plant City, Florida died February 28, 2014, at Moffitt Cancer Center. Born February 10, 1966, she was the daughter of Noel and Joane Martin Brown. She was the wife of Jeff Bunkley. Surviving are son, Hunter Bunkley; daughter, Jennalee Bunkley; brother, Ricky Brown; sisters, Diane Connell, Laurie Leighly and Karen Brown Cominski, and many nieces, nephews, friends, and loved ones. Kathy had battled cancer with a smile on her face for four years. She was a strong, beautiful, inspirational soul. Everyone she met fell in love with her and her story of struggle, courage, determination and strength. A Funeral service will be at 1:00 PM, Saturday, March 8, 2014 at Haught Funeral Home Chapel, 708 W. Dr. M.L.K. Jr. Blvd. Plant City. The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.haughtfuneralhome.com Dolly Mae Griffin, 70 of Plant City died March 2, 2014, at South Florida Baptist Hospital in Plant City. Born June 10, 1943 in Potosi, Missouri, she was the daughter of the late Ervin and Lily Studdard Warden. She was the wife of Ernest Griffin, who survives. She was predeceased by a son, Ricky Bradford. Also surviving are son, Michael Griffin; daughter, Donna (David) Anders; 7 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren. Dolly had the biggest heart and loved her kids and grandkids. She had worked for 26 years and retired from Chesapeake Utilities in Winter Haven. A Graveside service will be at 2:00 PM, Friday, March 7, 2014 at Springhead Cemetery located on South County Line Road, Lakeland, Florida. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.haughtfuneralhome.com Billy M. Pate Obituary (VERSION 1, for LOCAL papers) PATE, Billy M., 82, of Plant City, passed away February 25, 2014. A retired Teacher, Baseball Coach, Administrator, and Principal in the Hillsborough County Public Schools, he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at The University Of Alabama. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth
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Morris Pate, two sons, Morris Pate (Cathy) and Michael Pate ( Jennifer), and a daughter, Sarah Dee Harbin ( Johnny). Also surviving are grandchildren, Emily Pate, Abigail Pate, Maggie Pate, Matthew Harbin, Ellen Marie Harbin and John Dairell Harbin. A memorial service will be held at 4:00 P.M. on Sunday, March 2, at The First United Methodist Church of Plant City, with visitation at 3:00 P.M., and a reception following the service, where all friends are invited to share a meal and a story. Roll Tide. Larry Leveson, 73, born March 20, 1940 died February 15, 2014, in Plant City at South Florida Baptist Hospital. Larry was a graduate of Miami Edison High School and a US Air Force veteran. Surviving family members include Harris Leveson III, Rhonda Morton, Sabrina and Keith Wade, Lynda and Jeff Buchanan, Bernie and Toni Leveson, David and Eva Leveson, Victoria Leveson, and grandchildren, Lauren, Madelyne, Logan, Brooke, Jeffrey, Brianna, Shaun, and Jared. Missy and Bentley are his beloved pet companions. The family will be having private services. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Best Friends Sanctuary, Kaneb, Utah or a Tampa Bay Area Rescue Group. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.haughtfuneralhome.com William David “Bill” Morgan, 75 of Plant City, passed away peacefully February 18, 2014, at South Florida Baptist Hospital in Plant City. He is now joyfully spending eternity with Jesus. Born May 11, 1938 in Henderson, Texas, he was the son of the late William Morgan and Gladys Reed Morgan. He was the husband of Jayne Foerster Morgan for 37 years, she survives. Bill was a member at Shiloh Baptist Church, where he taught Bible for many years, and had an ongoing small group Bible study at Floral Village. Also surviving are sons, Jeff ( Judy) Morgan and Michael (Camille) Mollohan; daughters, Julie (Wes) Kirkfield, Lisa Mollohan and Suzanne (Pete) Vega; 11 grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren. In remembrance of Bill, a celebration of his life will be held 4:00 PM, Friday, February 21, 2014 at Shiloh Baptist Church, 1104 Cason Street, Plant
City, with visitation one hour prior. If so desired, donations may be made to either Samaritan’s Purse or Operation Christmas Child. Both can be reached at PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.haughtfuneralhome.com
Gene O. McClellan, 75 of Plant City died February 24, 2014, at South Florida Baptist Hospital in Plant City. Born January 23, 1939, he was the son of the late Harvey and Pernie Parrish McClellan. Gene loved antique cars and had a great sense of Yvonne Gay Gibbons, 74 of humor. Plant City, died February 21, 2014, Surviving are his loving friend, Betty Spears; sons, at South Florida Baptist Hospital in William McClellan, David (Stacy) McClellan and Plant City. Christian Hartline; daughters, Barbara (William) Born November 17, 1939, in Lewis, Debora (Doug) Peters, Melody Hassick and Inghan County, Michigan, she was Tammy Spears; sister Judy; 13 grandchildren; 15 the daughter of the late Emil and great grandchildren; 1 great great grandchild. Ruth Tuttle Harlacher. She was the wife for twelve A Funeral service will be at 6:00 PM, Thursday, years of Thom Gibbons, who survives. Ferbruary 27, 2014, at Haught Funeral Home Yvonne was a member of St Clement Catholic Chapel, 708 W. Dr. M.L.K. Jr. Blvd. Plant City. Church, where she was active with the Knights of The family will receive friends for one hour prior to Columbus, and served as a communion minister. service at funeral home. She also volunteered as Mrs Santa Claus, and Online condolences may be made to the family at enjoyed eating out. www.haughtfuneralhome.com Also surviving are sons, Douglas Black, Dennis (Fiancee Heather) Black and Douglas Don Borel; Elaine Alloy Glenn, 63 of sisters, Sonia Burrell and Cheryl Harlacher. Mulberry died March 10, 2014, at A Funeral Mass will be 10:00 AM, Wednesday, Tampa General Hospital. February 26, 2014 at St Clement Catholic Church, Born August 16, 1950 in Sayre, 1104 North Alexander Street, Plant City, Florida Pennsylvania, she was the daughter 33563. of the late Acey Carlin and the late Online condolences may be made to the family at Mabel Trowbridge. She was the wife www.haughtfuneralhome.com of David Glenn, who survives. Elaine was an office manager for Florida RV Emily Ann Smith, 73 of Plant City, died World, a seamstress, and loved to camp, fish and February 21, 2014, at her home. travel. Born December 9, 1940 in Minneapolis, Also surviving are sons, David Glenn, Norman Minnesota, she was the daughter of the late Glenn and Terry Brink; daughters, Penny Brink, Benjamin and Helen Ahlberg Harlien. She was the Candy Clinton, Cindy Gulley and Jamie Glenn; 17 wife of the late Donald Smith. grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren. Surviving are stepdaughters, Katherin Victorson, The family will be having private services. Elaine Sheila Feceri, Diane Suess, and Barbara Smith; will be interred in Florida National Cemetery, sister, Phyllis Nelson, niece Frances Nelson; 16 Bushnell, FL at a later date. grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren. Online condolences may be made to the family at She will be interred with her husband in Florida www.haughtfuneralhome.com National Cemetery at a later date. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.haughtfuneralhome.com
In Loving Memory
A R F S
B E R I
A G A R
H A N A T E M O L P L F A S T
I C A N
S T U N
T A R P R A A C U M E M D A
I C J I A O I S E H H U N O I R R E B C R I B H A S I O N D I M L O U E M G A R A R S L U S K A T T E A L T E E U L A T N K S A E A L
R E L E N T P R O D U C E A D A G I O
I P R A E R T O Y P E A C L A A N S K
G A R D E S C I
K E E S Y E S W S R I R I N S N E
C B S H A S A B E E P Y D E H G F L O E R O O L D A G E S G O H O WD E R O D N O R K E L E A T T E R D E N D E N O U G E U R O T I E S
S S R P C O T A A M S O R I N A T S E C A M D E R C O S A N N E L I T M O A P A C A H S T S O E N
O C C U R S
S H E A L F F T E G A N
I N T O
R O S S
G A R E N L S
N E V E
T R E S
R A G U
A P S E
Partners Stop on in a Rhyme
COME JOIN THE FOCUS COMMUNITY
“LIKE” US ON FACEBOOK FACEBOOK.COM/ THEFOCUSMAGAZINE
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
PARTNERS IN RHYME PARTNERS IN RHYME
Created by Calvin R. and Jackie Mathews
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© Puzzle Features Syndicate
FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MARCH 2014
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Your Refund
during our
GIANT
San Clementi
y r a SALE s r e v i n An NO Credit
queen sleigh bed
(headboard, footboard, rails)
dresser & mirror
Refused
*
SAVE 301.90
SAVE 111.95
998
$
Onyx 2 pc sectional
reg. 1299.90
688
$
reg. 799.95
887796/97
matching ottoman available
900549
mix & ma colors tch !
also in honey pine
50” LED
778
120Hz
$
reg. 999.95 115948 while supplies last storage drawers sold separately
Forrester OR Kendall
22195
GREAT twn/full bunkbed
901327/28
Value!
398
$
SAVE
SAVE 101.95
Prism
round table 4 side chairs
887842/43/44/45/46
498
$
reg. 599.95
HOTBUY
Prices and offers effective March 11 - March 24, 2014
years 1904–2014
703 South Evers PLANT CITY (813) 754-3547 MON.– SAT. 9AM–6PM
* Certain restrictions and exclusions apply. Applicants must meet all State and Federal identification verification requirements and State age requirements. Offer not available to applicants in default on a Badcock account or in an active bankruptcy. Offer valid through March 24, 2014 at participating stores only.
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Resolve Your Joint Pain
South Florida Baptist Hospital treats joint pain resulting from arthritis, age, sports injuries and past falls or fractures. We provide orthopedic services that range from nonsurgical treatments to complete joint replacement, all delivered with skilled precision and compassion.
301 N. Alexander St., Plant City
Call (813) 443-3073 today for a referral to one of our orthopedic physicians: Edward H. Becker, MD Fabio Fiore, MD Scott E. Goldsmith, MD Stuart A. Goldsmith, MD Jeffrey D. Watson, MD
BC1400970-0214
Mobility Is Everything
MobilityIsEverything.org
FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MARCH 2014
111
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.
FUEL SAVER PACKAGE
29.95
$
includes lube oil filter, rotate 4 tires, multipoint inspection, battery check
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 04/15/2014
BEAT ALL TIRE PRICES
ON NAME BRAND TIRES free alignment check with tire purchase Must present coupon at time of write up. May not be used with any other coupon or store special. Most cars and light trucks. Expires 04/15/2014
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. Expires 04/15/2014
ALL MAKES AND MODELS! WE’LL BEAT YOUR BEST TIRE PRICE GUARANTEED! 112
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