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Celebrate a life lived!
CONTENTS May 2014 | Volume 13 Issue 05 | focusplantcity.com
Wells Memorial and EventCenter Verna McKelvin
ONTHECOVER Photography by Anthony Sassano
Exclusiveprovider provider ofof Dignity Exclusive Dignity Memorial benefi ts ts Memorial benefi
Dr. Brooke Shepard, M.D. & Dr. James Bartlett, M.D. of South Florida Baptist Hospital
Exclusive provider of Dignity
1903 West Reynolds Street ~ Plant City Memorial benefi ts
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Verna McKelvin
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Mimi’s
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Nails & Spa
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This month’s issue is loaded with special stories featuring remarkable Plant City people. Check out our profile on Mike Goodwine and his exciting Blackneck Adventures and an article on Verna McKelvin’s new book. Also find out the details of the recent Tampa Bay Blueberry Festival and Chamber of Commerce Contact Breakfast and Community Expo.
Spotlight: South Florida Baptist Hospital
A fixture in the Plant City community for over half a decade, the South Florida Baptist Hospital has served thousands through its hightech services in a friendly, warm environment. Learn more about services, old and new, in an exclusive spotlight interview. Services:
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Mon-Sat: 9:30am - 7:30pm | Sunday: 11:00am - 5:00pm
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Feature: FOCUS on Medical
It’s that time again where we feature some of the area’s choice health care providers. Learn how Brandon Regional Hospital, Call The Doc, Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic, P.A., Eye Express, Helping Hands, Caring Hearts, Inc., Heysek and Kepes Radiation Oncology, Oracle Home Health Care, Woodside Dental, Pediatric Dentistry of Brandon, Plant City Imaging, The Tooth Caboose, Watson Clinic, veriMed, and Now Care Urgent Care and Weight Loss Clinic stand out from the competition by putting you and your family first.
Business: Walden Lake Car Wash and Service Center
From car washes to oil changes, Walden Lake Car Wash and Service Center is your one stop shop for providing your car with a little TLC. Not only is owner Frank Cummings committed to the community, but he’s also dedicated to making his services affordable for all. Read up on all the discounts and specials he offers to help you save money.
Dining: Top Shelf Sports Bar and Grill
New to historic downtown Plant City, this sports bar serves up great wings, beers on draft including craft beers, raw and steamed oysters, and much more. Be sure to catch the next game at this awesome gathering place.
See Also: Talk of the Town - 14 Real Estate - 69 - 75 Athlete of the Month - 78 Seniors of the Month - 83 Derek Maul Column - 85 Candy’s Corner - 84 Wanda’s Words of Wisdom - 87 Recipe of the Month - 93 Event Calendar - 98 Crossword - 101
FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
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Specializing in Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry
BRANDON 515 Corner Dr. Brandon, FL 33511 (813) 681-9473
PLANT CITY 623 East Alexander St. Plant City FL 33566 (813) 759-9474
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LETTER FROM THE
PUBLISHER What an amazing town is Plant City! Honestly, the relationships we build and the community functions we attend together offer a whole ‘nother level of appreciation for the “things that matter most in life.” The stories featured In this month’s annual medical issue are just one example of how caring professionals use their skills, gifts and talents to help all of us maintain our health and well-being. Everything, from the finest medical facilities and the top ranked physicians to the compassionate nurses and home health care providers, contributes to life in a city where residents, in every age and life stage, can thrive.
Because we know it takes a village, Plant City cares for our children, too, by continually adding to and upgrading the youth athletic fields and the City’s exceptional Recreation and Parks Department outreaches. With the addition of some new fields and the new FCPC soccer league, we can expect even more players to move into the college scholarship and professional ranks. And summer camps—we definitely have them! Be sure to read the details inside and register your children early to ensure their spot in the camp of their choice. In this springtime month of Mother’s Day and Memorial Day, the Focus staff is proud to showcase the stories of the community we value so much. Please know that we appreciate your continued support and your constant work to contribute to a better life for those in your own sphere of influence.
When we all do our part, a beautiful town will continue to shine like that ephemeral city on a hill. The people who care will always be the We live in a safe city, as difference-makers. well, thanks to the men and women in uniform who are first responders when accidents happen. These highly trained and dedicated individuals serve tirelessly to ensure that, as much as within their power, trouble bypasses Plant City and its people. Be sure to read the stories in this issue about the 52nd Annual Law Enforcement Banquet Warmest Regards, and of one recently retired female Mike Floyd sheriff ’s officer.
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 Summer Larson 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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LOCAL
CARL DEKLE
THE TIE GUY Article by Cheryl Johnston
“I want to show our appreciation for service in the Armed Forces, and the ties are a special way to recognize each branch,” said Dekle. Photo by Cheryl Johnston
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WII Marine veteran and Silver “Those years I would do again if I had to— Star recipient Carl Dekle is a to serve my God, country, family and the man on a mission. And it’s a Corps.” patriotic one, too! Dekle caught his patriotic friend RJ by As a result of his military service, his faith, surprise one Sunday when he handed him and of his heart for America’s servicemen an Air Force tie. “I appreciated the gesture,” and women, the retiree enjoys helping RJ offered. “I saw that what he learned in others honor the sacrifices so many have the Marines has stuck with him all these made for our country’s freedom. years. And no one can appreciate a veteran like another veteran.” One unique way he accomplishes his mission is to provide veterans and currently “I remember those difficult days with a enlisted personnel at his church with squad of mostly 17-to-18 year-olds,” said military branch neckties. Dekle. “We managed to do things we never knew we were capable of, and we lost “I want to show our appreciation for service friends, too.” in the Armed Forces, and the ties are a special way to recognize each branch,” said “Our regiment received the Presidential Dekle. Unit Citation, but those heroes who couldn’t come home with us—those white At Plant City Church of God, for prayer and crosses are what count—those warriors awareness purposes, he maintains a display/ gave it all. When you see those young ones roster of currently enlisted personnel and die, you ask yourself, “Why not an old salt?’” keeps an updated annual list of holidays when veterans should wear their ties. Dekle survived to share his “Everything is beautiful, every day” outlook on life. “The During his five year active duty tour and 27 Lord has blessed me and I try never to months in three campaigns, Dekle served in complain.” Guantanamo Bay, Cuba in the first Marine division formed in 1940-41, in Puerto Rico, He added, “I just don’t want to ever forget on the USS Henderson in Charleston, the price so many paid.” South Carolina, at Upolu Island in British Samoa, on Bloody Ridge in Guadalcanal, And thankfully, he’s doing his part to help in Melbourne, Australia, and at Oro Bay, others remember as well. New Guinea to take the Cape Gloucester Airport in New Britain before finishing at Pavuvu.
MAY 2014 focusplantcity.com
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MIKE GOODWINE “Many men go fishing
THE ART OF FISHING “S
on, you ready to go fishing?” “Yeah Dad, but what time are we going to be back?” was the reply a preteen Mike Goodwine made to his father. It was then that Mike’s dad knew he had lost his son. A girl had now become more important than their fishing trips.
Article by Heather Davis
water, Mike began to figure out what was working and what did not. “I had to think outside the box,” Mike said, “and create my own fishing rules.” One such rule or tip he shared, half jokingly, was “Never listen to the meteorologist.”
With each Blackneck Adventure Instagram and Facebook post, Mike began to make huge waves and create a following. Before long the name Blackneck Adventures was born, which is a play on the word redneck. On Instagram alone Mike has close to 6,000 followers. Not a day goes by that someone is not contacting him to take them fishing or to ask for fishing advice. One of the things that creates for Mike such a loyal following is his willingness to reach out, respond, and take just about anyone fishing, from friend to stranger. Mike is quick to explain that he A little over a year ago Mike Goodwine was is not a captain, but will go fishing with you a novice to saltwater fishing. He purchased for fun. a boat that could be used in saltwater, but paid little attention to the fact, as he In addition to all of his Blackneck thought it was not something he would ever Adventures social media followers, some do. He was wrong and once he tried it, he of which have traveled from as far away as was hooked. Mike began to seriously study California for the chance to fish with him, the art of fishing: the rhythm, patterns, and Mike is getting the attention of several flow. With each catch he would ask, “Why sponsors. Sponsors such as Breath Like A is this fish biting?” After many hours on the Fish Apparel and Go Puck have all reached Now, almost thirty years later Mike Goodwine has come full circle and has discovered he has an unquenchable passion for fishing. Mike states that fishing is the universal key between everything he has ever done in his life including art, music, skateboarding, motocross, and his love for people. Every day, with each fish Mike catches he is literally touching thousands of lives by combining his love for fishing with social media, like Facebook and Instagram.
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all their lives without knowing that it is not the fish they are after” - Henry David Thoreau
LOCAL
out to Mike. One of his sponsors, Certified and begins filling their bait buckets full of Industrial Maintenance is currently paying greenbacks that we just spent a lot of time to have his fishing boat repaired. collecting for ourselves. He gave them some pointers on locations and techniques for What is creating the frenzy of excitement that area. They were ecstatic and grateful around Mike and Blackneck Adventures? and headed off to catch some fish, which What better explanation could there be Mike found out later via Instagram that but in the words of a close fishing friend they had caught several nice ones, thanks and Captain Aaron Starr. “This is a true to his kindness and guidance. I personally example of Mike Goodwine. We were think that type of kindness and connection snagging snook out of some mangroves on with others is what truly makes Mike the the edge of a busy channel next to the ramp amazing person he is. That’s why everyone we launched from. We were passing time can’t get enough of him or his crazy rants waiting on one of Mike’s Instagram friends online and all the amazing pictures he posts. from California (that he had never met He’s also pretty good at fishing. That doesn’t but agreed to take fishing while they were hurt either.” -Capt. Aaron Starr visiting in Florida) to show up. Well, along comes a canoe with two young kids around Another fishing friend, Trey Larsen shared 15 or 16 years old. They pulled up next to us the following experience. “I’ve known and asked if he was Mike from Blackneck Mike for a little over a year now and I’ve Adventures on Instagram in which they never met another person so crazy about were big fans, and of course he said yes fishing. From freshwater to saltwater, Mike and asked the guys if they were catching Goodwine can always catch fish!! Mike put anything and so on. They said they just got me on my biggest Redfish I’ve ever caught. there and hadn’t started fishing yet. He then For two days I sat in the same spot trying to asked if they had bait (which at the time catch one and didn’t even get one bite. Mike greenbacks, the best bait for that area were comes cruising up and gives me some of his only at some markers way too far away for secret bait and points out a spot for me to a canoe to go get) they said “no.” Without cast. Not more than 10 minutes later I was hesitation he says “Pull over here, I got ya”, hooked up on the biggest redfish of my life.
After about an 18-minute fight I was finally is something more than the caught fish, able to land it with a smile from ear to ear fun and laughter. It goes to a place in the thanking Mike!” soul that’s as old as the art of fishing itself. It’s the connection made while out on the A fishing trip with Mike Goodwine of water, the opportunity to become equals Blackneck Adventures is sure to land you a with another over the salt and the sea and fish or two, the thrill of the catch, and good a fishing rod. memories to last a lifetime. But I think it
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TWO PLANT CITY HIGH STUDENTS
SPLIT PHOTOJOURNALISM CONTEST PRIZE Article by Gil Gott
The photograph shows the winners receiving their congratulations and awards. L-R: Gil Gott, Photo Archives and History Center Executive Director; Jackson Hardee, 1st place award winner; Ashlyn Yarbrough, 1st place award winner; David Wolf, Haught Funeral Home, the contest’s sponsor. Photo courtesy of Gil Gott
T
he Plant City Photo Archives and History Center has announced the winners of its annual Photojournalism Contest. The winners, their stories, and prizes this year involved a first-ever tie for 1st Place between last year’s winner, Jackson Hardee, and first-time entrant Ashlyn Yarbrough, each picking up a check for $100.00 for their Blue Ribbon performances. Hardee wrote about the William Glover School and Bealsville, Inc., the non-profit organization that maintains and operates the historic school campus. Yarbrough chose to write about McGinnes Lumber Company, its growth, fires, and successes.
Napper, all of whom received certificates be on display in the Exhibit Gallery at the and minor monetary awards for their Photo Archives and History Center for a month following the announcement of the participation. winners. Friends and family are invited The contest, now in its fifth year, challenged to view the entries during normal gallery Plant City High School students to enter hours. There is no admission fee. the competition and submit both a story pertaining to greater Plant City’s history, Plant City Photo Archives and History and its people, places, or things and Center was founded in 2000 with the one or more related photos. The contest objective of preserving the history and requirements were that the student must heritage of the community by collecting and submit at least one photograph and write preserving the community’s photographs a story of 300 to 600 words about the and their stories. The history organization greater Plant City persons, places, or things encourages students to explore nearby in the photos. Sherrie Mueller, College history – the history around them in their and Career Counselor at Plant City High everyday lives. The organization’s gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from School, coordinated the contest. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., or by appointment. The The sponsor for the 2014 contest was office telephone number is 813.754.1578 David Wolf, owner and operator of Haught and the email address is info@ Funeral Home. plantcityphotoarchives.org.
Other participants this year included Luis Arellano, Shelby Baerwalde, Victoria Bowen, Raul Camacho, Taylor Fulton, Katelin Jenkins, Kendall Johnson, Quinton Langford, Kate McGuire, and Morgan In addition to the cash prizes all entries will
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EAST HILLSBOROUGH ART GUILD
AWARDS TWO SCHOLARSHIPS Article by Cheryl Johnston
T
million youth and adults with disabilities. The Florida VSA is headquartered at the University of South Florida College of Education. Based on her own experience with both organizations, EHAG’s Scholarship Committee spokesperson Deborah Lulei, complimented: “The teachers at VSA and MTC are well trained to meet their clients’ needs. To see students’ faces light up when they connect with art and with each other is wonderful.”
group welcomes professionals, hobbyists, new ideas and visitors, too. The goal: to learn, grow and increase awareness and love of art in the community. First Monday monthly meetings (except June, July and September) at the GFWC Woman’s Club, 1110 N. Wheetler Street in Plant City begin at 7PM. Most feature an educational program or guest artist.
he East Hillsborough Art Guild know I had...They taught me so much that awarded two $500 scholarships at its now people buy my paintings.” annual banquet on May 6, 2014. Hattab explained that the Ranch was The non-profit group of artists, art lovers established in 1966 when the Herbert and patrons embraces all fine arts media, James family donated its property to MTC. To download application and learn more, ages and stages of development. EHAG The group is a leader in service to people visit ehagfinearts.com or e-mail ehag2010@ supports and encourages members by with developmental disabilities and one of gmail.com. offering opportunities throughout the year the first to develop supported employment Membership in the friendly and productive to learn, compete, exhibit and sell their and supported living services as alternatives EHAG is a $20 investment annually. The to sheltered workshops and traditional work. group homes. Approximately 70 members and guests were on hand to appreciate representatives from Carolina Garcia Serpa, a instructor with the MacDonald Training Center and VSA VSA, thanked EHAG members for the non-profit organizations who accepted the “privilege of accepting the scholarship,” adding, “We sincerely appreciate your awards. support and know our students will benefit.” Artist Chris McDarby and Rita Hattab, Director of Development for MTC, spoke VSA, (acronym for Very Special Arts) is the international organization founded in 1974 first. by Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith. With EHAG presented scholarships to VSA and McDonald Training Center at its annual “I am an artist,” McDarby said, “but I was 52 international affiliates and a nationwide banquet. (L-R: Deborah Lulei of EHAG, Carolina Garcia Serpa of VSA, Rita Hattab arts and education not an artist before I went to the James network, VSA1 provides of 1 McDonald Training Center, artist Chris McDarby with his mother Valerie CSBPlantCityCommercialFinanceFocusAd:Layout 1/29/14 2:48 PM Page Ranch. They showed me a talent I did not programming annually for approximately 7 McDarby, and EHAG President Joe Simspon. Photo by Cheryl Johnston
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LOCAL
Picture left to right: Civitan Club president, Pat Pogue; Sherrie Mueller, Plant City High School College and Career Counselor; Nancy Mendoza, recipient from PC High School; Keenya Wright, recipient from Durant High School; Franci Dupre, Durant High School College and Career Counselor; Dr. Daniel Middlebrooks, Chaplain of Plant City.
PLANT CITY
CIVITAN CLUB
T
he Plant City Civitan Club has recognized outstanding students from Plant City and Durant High Schools for more than 35 years for their accomplishments. The James C. Billings Scholarship Awards have been awarded to many deserving students to Hillsborough Community College.
President, Pat Pogue in honoring Nancy with the James C. Billings Scholarship Award. The Civitan Club will honor Nancy again with a plaque at the Plant City High School’s Award Night on May 1st. Keenya Wright is president of the youth ministry at her church and is an outstanding student at her school. Keenya’s plans are to become a Pediatric Nurse. Franci Dupre, College and Career Counselor for Durant High School, assisted Civitan Club President, Pat Pogue in honoring Keenya with the James C. Billings Scholarship Award. The Civitan Club will honor Keenya with a plaque at the Awards Night at Durant High School on May 19th.
On Thursday, April 3rd, the Civitan Club awarded two students with this honor and Keenya Wright from Durant High School and Nancy Mendoza from Plant City High School were this year’s recipients of the James C. Billings Scholarship. Although many excellent students are considered on the basis of academics and community service, these two students stood out among their peers. They’re incredible young The Plant City Civitan Club was also people, very involved in their community, honored to have Dr. Daniel Middlebrooks, Chaplain of Plant City, to attend the Civitan school and church. Club meeting where he also congratulated Nancy Mondoza is in the National the two recipients of the James C. Billings Honor Society at her school. She enjoys Scholarship Award. Dan Middlebrooks volunteering, bilingual aid, tutoring, and also spoke on his experiences and offered Relay for Life. Nancy plans to get a Master’s encouragement and support to the students. Degree in Nursing. Sherrie Mueller, He also challenged Nancy and Keenya in College and Career Counselor for Plant their future endeavors in life. City High School, assisted Civitan Club FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
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TWO SHIPPING
CONTAINERS
= HOME SWEET HOME R
Article by Cheryl Johnston They’ve been married 18 years, love cats, ob and Cathy Byrd are planners. and are “huge supporters of animal rescue “Our retirement plan was pretty well organizations.” defined by the time we were 40,” explained Cathy, “even though I’ll probably work “Fifteen years ago when we sat down to another ten years and Rob for another five.” discuss our retirement, we considered things like travel, hobbies and volunteer “But a year ago,” she added, “we started work,” Cathy said. “But with the economy, our original plans needed to change, which rethinking our future.” actually now has become a blessing in And what has developed since is the focus disguise.” of this story. She continued, “Together we realized we First, meet the new Plant City residents. just wanted to live a simpler, quieter life— Cathy has been a licensed general one that didn’t require we ‘do’ a lot, but one contractor for 35 years. Her company, where we could just sit and ‘be.’” Innovative Restorations, Inc., specializes in historic restorations (“before ‘green’ was When Rob, the “born and raised a country cool”), with plenty of work concentrated boy, third generation Limona/Brandon in St. Petersburg and South Tampa, where outdoorsman,” asked his wife if she liked they lived until three weeks ago. Rob is the idea of rural living, she said, “Yes!” an exceptionally talented architectural draftsman and owner of RM Byrd & Since joining a Plant City business Associates, designs and coordinates networking group three years ago, Cathy with engineers on commercial projects. had become enamored with the area. “The
Although still in the process of unpacking, Rob and Cathy Byrd are enjoying the simpler, quieter lifestyle in their unusual new home. Photo by Cheryl Johnston
heartbeat of this community is tied to the Hiring a structural engineer proved earth,” she said. “It’s agri-driven, but soulful. especially helpful, since Hillsborough You can almost feel the roots vibrating.” County had never before issued permits for such housing and staffers were uncertain of Local realtor Shelton Keely referred them the applicable codes. to Fred Keely’s densely oak-treed, not quite 2-acre property off Highway 60 near County “It’s been a fascinating process for all,” Line Road, for which they paid cash. They added Cathy. “We’re also thankful the began designing house plans to qualify for building code allows homeowners to green certification, and considering things hire professional engineers for interim like garden space, habitat preservation, and inspections, which is typically traditional building materials resistant to termites. for commercial construction.” “After realizing I couldn’t operate a construction company in South Tampa and build our own home here at the same time,” Cathy explained, “we set a budget for temporary housing on the property.”
“We learned some awesome ideas by studying RVs, and we’re enjoying the simpler lifestyle smaller space naturally brings,” Cathy offered. “It’s funny now because every day Rob sees I’ve added a little more to make it a ‘home.’ This fascinating “Over the years while investigating journey is still a work in progress, but we alternative building systems,” she said, “I may just decide not to build a main house discovered steel shipping containers used at all.” as housing in Costa Rica and Panama. The watertight oceanic cargo containers are an “People have incredible interest in what attractive idea because they’re also fireproof we’re doing,” added Cathy. “This especially and termite proof.” affordable answer makes sense for those financially motivated. I highly recommend “But,” she explained, “There are virtually no it for weekend homes or for folks who really examples locally, so we’ve been learning on want to downsize.” the fly.” Apparently, the State of Florida is also The Byrds settled last month into two now intrigued. Next week in St. Augustine, corrugated metal containers, 8’ wide x 40’ Cathy will present their experience at the long x 9’6” high. One houses their home annual Department of Revenue’s statewide office, the other their home. continuing education conference for property appraisers.
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LOCAL
PLANT CITY PHOTO ARCHIVES & HISTORY CENTER DIRECTOR
ATTENDS ARCHIVISTS CONFERENCE
P
hoto Archives and History Center director Gil Gott attended the annual conference of the Society of Florida Archivists recently held in Orlando, Florida. The Society of Florida Archivists is a statewide organization founded to foster both interest and best practices in archival organizations dealing with local, regional, and state records, photographs, and documents.
Article by Cheryl Johnston issue, Spring 2014, of The Florida Archivist, which dealt with the foundation, development, collections and research potential at the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center. In addition to a reception sponsored by the archivist at Rollins College, Gott received a tour of the Orange County Regional History Center’s extensive archives.
“One of the most interesting parts of the conference was discovering the extent to The three-day conference focused on the which technology has impacted the daily theme “Our Diverse Cultures, Our Digital operations of the professional archivist,” Future,” and consisted of seminars dealing said Gott. with documenting diversity in Florida’s historical records, and preservation “The dramatic increase in the amount of techniques, procedures, and practices digitally created documents and records, dealing with both physical documents and which have no physical hard copy, requires the archivist to gain a new perspective on digital records. the methodology of collection, preservation, As a member of the newsletter committee, storage, and retrieval of historic data.” Gott published an article in the current
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He continued, “Obviously this requires a new approach to the preservation of our historic records by all parts of the community, from the family level to the corporate level, from volunteer and amateur historians to the professional archivist. Technology has provided great tools; it is now our job to learn how to best use them.” And that’s exactly what Gott loves to do for the benefit of our community. The Plant City Photo Archives and History Center is located at 106 South Evers Street in historic downtown Plant City and is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For further information call the office at 813.754.1578 Executive Director of Plant City Photo Archives & or visit the website at History Center Gill Gott recently attended the threeday Society of Florida Archivists conference focused plantcityphotoarchives.org. on “Our Diverse Cultures, Our Digital Future.”
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TIMES ARE CHANGING
COMMUNITY EXPO RETURNS
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usiness owners are always looking for new and creative ways to connect with their customers. Expos are a popular way for businesses to make those connections. They provide an opportunity for businesses to show off their products and services in an intimate setting. The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce is currently preparing for the 2014 Plant City Community Expo. The event will be held June 11th in the Grimes Agriculture Building on the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds – 2508 Oak Ave. In past years, the event was held in the afternoon hours, but this year the hours have changed. The expo will begin at 8:30 a.m., immediately following the Contact Breakfast, and will end at 11:30 a.m. The Chamber is hopeful the change will make it easier for more businesses to participate and allow more patrons to attend.
Article by Brian West It’s a unique relaxed atmosphere where attendees can see the latest in products and services offered by local businesses, and others looking to do business right here in our city. If you and your business are interested in participating, booth space is available for $150 for Chamber members, and $200 for non-members. Restaurants get a special rate if they are providing food samples. The deadline for registration is Tuesday, June 3rd, so there’s still time to get in on the fun and promote your business.
Admission is free. Come out and join everyone, and check things out. See what our local businesses have to offer. This year’s Expo is sponsored by the Plant City Times & Observer. For more information about the event, and how you can get your business involved, contact the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce at Over 50 businesses are slated to attend. 813-754-3707. There will be door prizes and giveaways. FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
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WHERE ARE THEY NOW? WE FOUND…KENNY YOHO, I4MX SERIES B Article by Deana Garrison
orn and raised, a Plant City graduate, Kenny Yoho, has always been involved in motocross racing. His whole life has been centered around motocross. Learning all he could learn growing up at his dad’s track, it wasn’t long before he was wanting to be involved himself. By the early age of five he was on the podium at his dad’s track.
Acccording to the I4MX webseite, ten years later, “Kenny was being chased at Gatorback by future pros Kevin Windham, Nathan Ramsey and Robbey Skaggs. As a matter of fact, Kenny beat them to the podium in the 1992 Mini O’s. Kenny raced several Loretta Lynn Nationals, with top 5 finishes. In 1990 Kenny Yoho turned Pro, lining up against a stacked field of talent, and qualifying for numerous main events, including Daytona. His best finish was a 17th at the Tampa Supercross in 1994. Lured by more money and a Factory Meyer Honda ride…Kenny Yoho headed overseas
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to Europe in 1999 to race in Germany’s Supercross series.” It goes on to tell Kenny’s story of freestyle motocross and getting Ronnie Renner and several others involved in freestyle. Kenny and his crew were even picked up by the 2001 Crusty Demons Video Series, creating episodes 7, 8, 9 and 10. He seemed to have great success. Then suddenly life threw him a curve ball. In 2005, things changed for Kenny. A horrible accident took the life of his fiancé and put his daughter in a wheelchair. His priorities quickly changed. He was ready to give it all up.
In 2008, he retired from Freestyle Motocross and headed back to help his Dad run his DCMX program. It was a huge success. After all, he learned how it all worked from his father at an early age. “I’ve been around it my whole life. I know how to run a track smoothly and I know what it takes to have
in March and will run through July, and seems to be a fun and exciting time for all ages. Races are held at Sunshine, Coyote, Bartow and East Bay tracks. He named the series I4MX because I4 is the major highway that joins all four tracks.
a great series,” said Kenny. ”I have all the Putting all that he has learned throughout respect in the world for my father…I’ve his life in this series, so far it’s certainly seen what it takes.” He definitely has the proving to be a huge success. motivation and experience from his dad. For more information about Kenny and his Yoho recently decided to head up his own motocross series I4MX, go to www.i4mx. motocross event, I4MX. This series has com. There you will find the complete many incentives for the racers. It started schedule of events and locations.
Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce presents:
May 17, 2014 10 AM - 3 PM At the
Plant City Airport 4007 Airport Road Displays, Demonstrations, and Information:
Planes Helicopters Remote Control Planes Model Trains Automobiles K-9 Demonstrations (11, 12:30 & 2) Fire Department Fly Overs
Other things to do:
Free Flights for Kids (space limited) Provided by the EAA Young Eagles
(ages 8-17, registration closes at 1pm)
Kids Play Area Vendors Scouting Badge opportunities (Aviation and Traffic Safety) Computer Flight Simulator
Opening Ceremonies at 10:30am Trophy Presentation at 2:30pm
FREE ADMISSION $5 PARKING
For More Information Contact: Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce - 813-754-3707 info@plantcity.org
FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
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Photo courtesy of Danny Middlebrooks
TAMPA BAY BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL
AT KEEL AND CURLEY
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he seventh annual Blueberry Festival held at Keel and Curley Winery on April 25-27 was a huge success. Many people are buzzing around Plant City raving over how much fun they had while attending. Lots of music and blueberry shortcake were the hits of the celebration. Many took the opportunity to pick three pounds of blueberries for $12.
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Many vendors and food trucks were onsite. The entertainment this year was outstanding. The music of Mark Barrios, Faces South, Skip Frye, Southern Legacy and the Double Barrel Band was enjoyed by all. Ending the event with the Double Barrel Band was certainly a great choice. Mark Sprouse and crew always make it their point to offer great entertainment. It is always amazing to see what kind of entertainment Keel and Curley lines up for these kinds of events. Lots of families and groups of friends continuously came to have a grand time throughout the weekend.
Article by Deana Garrison
The kids’ area was set up for younger ones to enjoy. Local resident Danny Middlebrooks stopped in to try the Blueberry Shortcake and wasn’t a bit disappointed. He wasn’t the only one. Many were ready to give it a try. What a great seasonal twist to the usual strawberry shortcake. and it was definitely a big hit. Last year, the festival had something new…a Blueberry Queen. The pageant is held weeks before the Festival to select the queen. This adds even more glamour to the event. This year’s Miss Blueberry Queen,Shelby St. Amant, represented the festival well. If you missed out this year, make sure you watch for the Blueberry Festival dates next year. This is an annual event you don’t want to miss.
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THE CORVETTE
MUSEUM TOWER CREATES MUSEUM FOR PERSONAL CORVETTE COLLECTION Article by Brian West
will agree. Here’s a quick rundown. Tower owns the 1956 SR-2, the 1956 Betty Skelton racecar, a 1963 Grand Sport (1 of 5) and a 1967 L88 (1 of 20). Tower owns other Corvettes – several in fact, but these four are the most significant in the collection. In addition, to put his collection in a stratosphere few have even thought of, Tower also owns two NASCAR racers: the 1973 Chevy Malibu driven by Bobby Allison and the Dale Earnhardt, Sr. “Pass in the Grass” car. The car was nicknamed for the pass in the grass move Earnhardt made against Bill Elliott down the front stretch of the Lowes Motor Speedway in 1987. Yes, it’s true. Each of these cars resides right here in Plant City. Tower traveled all over the country, methodically acquiring the cars over the years. Today, it’s not uncommon for racecar legends, mechanics from the glory days, executives with Chevrolet, and just everyday Chevrolet fans to stop and visit with Tower to see the history and hear how it all came together from Tower himself. For years, Tower kept the cars in a bar – a very secure barn, but still a barn, behind his home. Over the last few years, Tower moved these 6 cars to the house. He added on a large air-conditioned room to house the collection, added some memorabilia and even a couple of significant engines to the show. When you enter, Tower carefully
1967 L88, 1963 Grand Sport, 1973 Malibu and the “Pass in the Grass” car.
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ollect. Collected. Collector. Collection. These words conjure different meanings for each of us. For those who collect things – stamps, coins, watering cans, autographs, etc. the item is the prize, but the journey means so much more. Plant City’s Bill Tower is no different. Like many, many others, Tower collects things. And like most collectors, the journey for the prize is a big part of the story. But Tower is set apart from most collectors because he lived and worked, hands-on: creating the very history, almost from the beginning. Best of all; he’s still living it today. Tower collects cars: Corvettes to be specific. Tower lived through the evolution of the Corvette working as a mechanic with a local dealership when Corvette first
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received fuel injection. After serving in the Navy aboard a nuclear submarine, Tower returned to Chevrolet in 1965 until the mid 1980s where he worked as an engineer. He was involved in the most unique projects Chevrolet had at the time, as the Corvette evolved from a sports car vying for recognition amongst the world’s best, to achieving title after title in road races throughout the world. Sure, there are others who can say they have a Corvette collection. They too have acquired their cars and have their reasons for painstakingly choosing the year and model they wanted. But no one has a collection that rivals Tower’s. No one. Tower has THE Corvette collection, and people around the world – especially those that know anything about the Corvette,
walks around the room uncovering the cars as if revealing the very history they made. With each reveal, his smile gets bigger and bigger. He is in his element. This is what he lives for. First up, the SR-2. The SR-2 was very significant in the evolution of the Corvette. It was so significant, that if it hadn’t been built, the Corvette may have ended production after just a few of years. It enabled Chevrolet to test the Rochester Fuel Injection system. Zora Arkus-Duntov, the father of the Corvette, was tasked creating the SR-2. They were looking for something that could outrun and outpace the competition, and they succeeded. It was hand-built by Bill Mitchell – another legend in the history of the Corvette. The SR-2 clocked better than 150 mph, and just over 147 mph on the sands of Daytona Beach. The car has ducts built through the inside of the door that allow air to pass through to cool the brakes, and a 48-gallon gas tank. Tower drove legendary Air Force pilot, Chuck Yeager, around the track at the Indy 500 back in 1986. Next up, the Betty Skelton racer. This car is at least one of the, if not the, most significant cars for women in racing. Skelton, an accomplished racecar driver, set a speed record with the car on Daytona Beach in 1956 – 156.99 mph. Tower even found a great photo of the car driving past
LOCAL the flagman who was standing on the sand just a few feet away. Crazy. Tower says Skelton was driving at least 140 mph when the photo was taken. With the help of a close friend with some very sophisticated equipment, Tower was able to have the photo enlarged and cleared up a little. Considering the photo was taken almost 50 years ago, it is an incredible shot. Progressing by year, the 1963 Grand Sport is next. The Grand Sport may also be the prize of the collection. At the time the car was created – also under the direction of Arkus-Duntov, there was a ban on factory involvement in racing. The Chevrolet executives didn’t know anything about the project. The Grand Sports begin crushing the competition – the Ford Cobras, and people started taking notice. In fact, the Grand Sport would earn the nickname “The Cobra Killer.” Once the executives learned of their factory involvement, they ordered the cars to be crushed. Fortunately, for car enthusiasts around the world, the cars disappeared in the middle of the night. Not only were there only 5 Grand Sports produced, years later, Tower was able to acquire the one that was raced by Roger Penske. This one is the most desirable of the Grand Sports. It looks like it was just
driven off the track from 1963, and even has the factory-installed film camera right behind the passenger seat. It weighs just over 1900 lbs. and has 485hp. Incredible! Then there’s the 1967 L88. There were only 20 L88s produced. The 1967 and ’68 L88s had 427ci engines and used closed-chamber aluminum heads with a 12.5:1 compression ratio. The one that Tower owns, also said to be the most desirable of the L88s produced, is even more special. Tower’s L88 was used as GM’s Proving Grounds test car and has more than 560hp. It also has no emissions equipment and a “minimum of 103 research octane and 95 motor octane, or engine damage may result” sticker affixed to the glove box door. This is cool stuff, folks. At some point, Indy 500 winner, Jim Rathman, also a Chevrolet dealer in Melbourne, acquired the car. Sometime later, Rathman sold the car to a local man who kept it for a few years. Tower acquired it a little later, and the rest is history. While Rathman owned the car, it is said to have achieved 180 mph on the Daytona 500 oval. To help put the L88, and Tower’s collection, into perspective, remember that the Grand Sport is the prize of the collection – plus all the other significant pieces of Corvette and NASCAR history Tower owns. A few months ago, another 1967 L88 crossed the auction block for $3.2M (before fees). And as incredible as that may be, Tower has absolutely no interest in selling his collection. He doesn’t even like to talk about their monetary value, just the overall history and their meaning to the evolution of the Corvette. And you have to respect him for that. Tower once said, “If I sold them, I wouldn’t have them anymore.” Pretty simple. Just goes to show that it’s all about the cars and their history.
dash for the finish. In turn 4 of the second lap, with Earnhardt, leading, Bill Elliott nudged Earnhardt, sending him into the grass infield. Earnhardt, incredibly kept control of the car, recovered, and maintained his lead. Earnhardt went on to win the race. To this day, the moment is considered one of the most exciting moments in NASCAR history. That, coupled with Earnhardt’s career in NASCAR, along with earning the nickname “The Intimidator,” helps to make this one very special piece of NASCAR memorabilia.
The 1973 Bobby Allison Coca Cola Chevy Malibu is also a significant piece of racing history – a 5-time Winston Cup race winner. It is the last 427ci powered that was ever created. Just walking around the car to see the details of what racing was all about 40 years ago is absolutely amazing. Tower is practically giddy as he talks of the history with these cars.
Tower has included vintage photos that coincide with the history of each car, and other memorabilia that add to the collection. There may not be many people that end up seeing Tower’s new museum, but it’s a very special piece of history, and amazingly, its right here in Plant City. Tower doesn’t believe the cars should be restored, just preserved. What more could you ask for from a pure enthusiast? By the way, Tower’s wife, Betty, happened to come home during my last visit. It was obvious that she may be the only thing he loves more than these cars, just as it should be.
Last, but certainly not least. Tower unveils the Dale Earnhardt, Sr. “Pass in the Grass” car from 1987. It was the first year of “The Winston.” It was an all-star race for winners at the Charlotte Motor Speedway that included a new format with a 10-lap
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CATS AND CROSS STITCH
A COMFORTING COMBINATION
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n their wedding day 25 years ago, Leon and Verna McKelvin also had to rescue a cat, which might just explain why she’s head-over-heels in love with the three felines that now share their home.
“I enjoy the details and the finished work,” Verna explained. “It’s relaxing to stitch as Leon and I watch TV and unwind—with the cats nearby, of course.”
Friends chuckled over her recent Facebook photo. Two of their three current cats motorcycle accident. In her own grief, she sprawled lazily across the laundry room asked a small boy why he was crying. His rugs. Her caption: “Whose house is this mother had insisted he abandon their kitten anyway?” in the woods. That’s when Verna insisted the cat could live with her, and for the next Tiger was born at the funeral home where 25 years Sheena was a comforting friend. Verna works, so home with her he went. A man at Antioch Park abandoned Goldie She fiercely protected Verna’s two sons. and four years ago, Verna brought home For 21 years, another rescue, Patches, was a the calico, Squirrely, after her pleading eyes best friend and great listener through some captured her heart at Southside Veterinary Service. very difficult times. Article by Cheryl Johnston
began when Leon’s first daughter needed help with a cross stitch project for a high school engineering class. Verna confesses, “I’ve been hooked ever since.”
Yes, and its evidenced by her masterful stitching of a tiger that earned Florida Meet the current three rescues: Tiger (13), Strawberry Festival first place honors at the born at Wells Memorial Funeral Home and 2014 Neighborhood Village display. Event Center; Goldie (10) a throwaway at Antioch Park where Leon coached football; “I love to cross stitch and especially love to and Squirrely (4) the four-year-old calico stitch cats,” she said, “ and wild ones, too,” whose pleading eyes captured Verna’s heart at Southside Farm Supply where she Although their wedding-day-injuredand-rescued feline didn’t survive, Verna’s purchased her dog’s medication. compassion for cats did. In addition to her work as manager at Wells, the compassionate cat rescuer is also She rescued Sheena at Springhead Park an expert cross stitch artist. This passion after her first husband’s death from a
And Pegleg lived only 10 years after his And with love, the cat-caring cross-stitcher pregnant mother was tossed from a car has offered her gallery-quality work for temporary display in area offices. driving by the McKelvin home. Like rescuing cats, the cross stitching work To learn more, share cat rescue stories, or talk cross stitch, contact Verna at 813-752has a calming effect. 1111.
Verna McKelvin has a passion for cats (all sizes) and a talent for cross stitch, as evidenced by this beautiful example that hangs in her office at Wells Memorial Funeral Home and Event Center.
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THIS COULD BE YOUR...
52ND ANNUAL
EAST HILLSBOROUGH
LAW ENFORCEMENT APPRECIATION DINNER Article by Cheryl Johnston Sheriff David Gee complimented the Plant City community’s “unparalleled support” for law enforcement efforts.
Larry Swindle, a sponsor who has served 40 years on the East Hillsborough Law Enforcement Appreciation Association’s committee, noted “It has been a real pleasure to be part of this event” because “two things have been dear to me—teens and law enforcement.” This plaque inscribing the annual “Officer of the Year Award” winners’ names hangs in the historic 1914 Plant City High School memorabilia room.
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Apparently, in their show of support, many other individuals and area companies agree.
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our area law enforcement officers were honored at the 52nd Annual East Hillsborough Law Enforcement Appreciation Dinner on May 13, 2014.
Assistant City Manager and event emcee Bill McDaniel also mentioned “Our thoughts and prayers are with good friend and fellow director Doug Gibbs (‘our goto guy with the legacy knowledge,’ currently More than 500 attendees gathered at hospitalized and seriously ill), for his the Florida Strawberry Festival Expo recovery.” Hall in tribute for the tireless efforts of staff from the four agencies that serve Four men, including one who saved four East Hillsborough County: Florida Fish lives, each received a plaque, $500 cash and and Wildlife Conservation Commission a $100 gift card from sponsor SRT Supply. (FFWCC), Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), Hillsborough County Sheriff ’s The 2014 Officers of the Year are: Office (HCSO) and Plant City Police HCSO Deputy Manuel Gonzalez Department (PCPD). FfWCC Officer Craig Baker FHP Trooper Matthew Williams The event originated after Hillsborough PCPD Detective Robert McLellan County Sheriff Sgt. Ben Wilder was slain and Deputy Perry Young wounded during a McLellan, was the lead investigator in domestic disturbance investigation in 1962. the 2013 violent take-over robbery of Area businessmen and women decided to the Sweetbay Supermarket on Alexander host an annual appreciation banquet for all Street. Subsequently, and with cooperation area law enforcement officers. from the Orlando Police Department and the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Each agency introduces its “Officer of the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosvies Year” and those names will soon be added (ATF), all subjects await federal court trial to the large service recognition plaque. for their crimes. Additionally, those recently retired receive a plaque acknowledging their years of service. Plans are already underway for next year’s event. Feel free to show your support Chaplain Jeffrey Howell of the Plant City by sending contributions payable to Police Department offered the invocation, East Hillsborough Law Enforcement praying for God to “bless, watch over, Appreciation, Inc., to P.O. Box 4807, Plant care for, and protect” the officers and their City, FL 33564. families, and “make them supernaturally good at what they do.”
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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
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KARLEY’S COURAGE YOUNG BLOGGER ENCOURAGESArticle HERby READERS Cheryl Johnston
“encouraging and helpful.” She added, “My friend Kassidy reminds me to eat snacks, and my sister loves me so much she’ll always go the extra mile for me. We’re very close and do lots of activities together. If the sugar levels make me feel weak, she will even carry me inside.” With English as her favorite subject, blogging seemed the natural communication method. Because Karley doesn’t use social media yet, her posts appear and comments are monitored through Michelle’s page on Facebook. This is fine with Karley, since her recently researched essay emphasizes technology’s negative aspects. “And my dad just attended a workshop at church about social media,” she said, “and how predators target young people. I don’t think I’ll be using it soon.”
at Brandon Assembly of God. Thanks to her “very athletic dad,” Karley has enjoyed basketball with the Plant City’s Parks & Recreation Department program. “He taught me to play and it’s my favorite sport, so I want to try out for the school team next year.” Karley offered, “Another reason I blog is to encourage people—that if I can stay faithful during hard times, they can, too.”
“I’m very thankful my diabetes is manageable,” she added. A favorite verse, Romans 8:28, gives her peace. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” “It’s true,” Karley explained, “And with For now, it’s simply blogging. But her reach God’s help on the blog, I might be able to is growing, even to readers in Botswana, help others.“ Africa. To read her journey and share the hope, She The family’s new normal still includes visit karleyscourage.blogspot.com. Disney trips, movies, and church activities welcomes your comments. When the Drapp family visited Disney’s California Adventure in Cars Land last summer, they couldn’t resist showing their passion for the USF Bulls. (L-R are Jeff, Kacey, Michelle and Karley). Photo courtesy of The Drapp Family
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Fortunately, her condition was discovered exceptionally early. “Doctors and nurses were surprised that we caught this so soon”, said Michelle. “As Karley’s symptoms developed, we sensed something was wrong, Since a diagnosis in early March of Type knowing her so well. We acted quickly.” 1 Diabetes, she’s been using her gift for writing to update friends and family on “My mom is always on top of things,” said the condition formerly known as juvenile Karley. “She helps me and loves me and gives me good advice.” diabetes. arley Drapp, a bright and beautiful Tomlin Middle School sixth grader, has a new passion with a purpose— blogging.
Typically diagnosed in children and young adults, only 5% of diabetes patients have Type I. The characteristically high blood glucose levels of this form occur when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. The pancreas then produces little or no insulin, the hormone needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy necessary for daily life.
“Of her new diet plan, she said, “We have learned so much. Now we look at food labels and do computer searches.” Michelle added, “She must be on insulin and we design meals around 60 carbs. We start with proteins and greens first, and then add a starch or dessert. Since the insulin brings the sugar rate down and the food brings it up, we manage the carbs for a balance in the middle.”
Thankfully, with insulin therapy and other treatments, even young children can Other than the eating requirements and learn to manage their condition and live blogging, Karley’s life hasn’t changed much. successfully. “I love the freedom in middle school and my teachers are the best. And with support from her loving parents, Jeff and Michelle, and younger sister Kacey, Although most were surprised by her Tomlin Middle School sixth grader Karley Drapp blogs to update and encourage need for three insulin shots a day, the family, friends and anyone living with Type 1 Diabetes). Karley is managing very well. young wordsmith describes everyone as Photo courtesy of The Drapp Family
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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
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ART TEACHER
OF THE YEAR NIKI CARPENTER OF PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL WAS PRESENTED THE AWARD BY HAEA. Article by Darcie Jarrett
Niki Carpenter of Plant City High School was this year’s recipient. Carpenter has been teaching art for 16 years in Hillsborough County and is currently the Department Head of Humanities at Plant City High. “This award is special to me,” said Carpenter, “because you are nominated by your peers. It is humbling and nice to think that other art teachers think highly of the work I am doing.” Once a teacher is nominated by a peer, the nominations are then sent or hundreds upon thousands of years, to the HAEA committee for final selection. the human race has expressed feelings, told stories and communicated On Concordia University’s website, there through art - whether it be visual or literal. is a page which speaks about becoming an art teacher. Once of the things it states is: The Hillsborough County Art Association “Art is an essential part of what makes us (HAEA) was established to not only show human. It brings light, color, beauty, and appreciation for art, but those, especially, peace into our everyday lives. Art can also who teach the renowned and age-old craft be a dynamic form of expression, allowing in our school systems. us to create expressions of our anger, love, hurt, joy or loss.” According to their website, “The organization is all about appreciation: Carpenter explained the best part of her appreciation for the values of art and art job is the opportunity to interact with the education. Appreciation for professionalism, kids. “They have great ideas and are so standards and the development of a strong much fun! I like that we can have really responsible cadre of well trained teachers interesting discussions about art and life who strive to be the best in the country. and that I can be there for them if they need Appreciation for aesthetic awareness and direction. Communication is what art is all what a person educated in visual art brings about. I am still in contact with many of to their community. Appreciation of, and my former students (two of them teach art dedication to, the Hillsborough County in Hillsborough County) and I love seeing students whose hearts and minds we hope how conversations we had and choices they to awaken to a life-long understanding and made have developed over time.” love of art.” Thank you, Niki Carpenter, for your love Every year, the HAEA presents an “Art of art and your dedication to our students. Teacher of the Year Award” to one of the Congratulations on your award. high school art teachers in the county. Photo courtesy of Niki Carpenter
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ELIGIBLE FARM CREDIT
OF CENTRAL FLORIDA MEMBERS
SHARE IN $3.5 MILLION PATRONAGE REFUND Article by Cheryl Johnston
Farm Credit of Central Florida Directors, Ron Wetherington (L), and Dennis Carlton, Sr. (R) hold an oversized check symbolizing the $145 million in patronage refunds, or profit-sharing, the cooperative’s board of directors has declared since 1988. Sharing in the association’s profits can significantly reduce the cost of funds to its Member/Borrowers. Photo by Cheryl Johnston
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arm Credit of Central Florida Chairman of the Board, David J. Stanford, a Winter Garden citrus grower, announced at the annual stockholders meeting on April 16 that the association’s eligible Member/Borrowers will benefit from patronage refunds, or profit-sharing, of $3.5 million, significantly lowering their cost of borrowing.
our association to grow and prosper,” said Reggie Holt, President/CEO of Farm Credit of Central Florida.
Since 1988, the organization’s board of directors has declared patronage refunds exceeding $145 million. The coop’s service area spans from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic coast serving 13 central Florida counties including, Citrus, Hernando, Farm Credit of Central Florida is a Pasco, Sumter, Pinellas, Polk, Hillsborough, Member-Owned cooperative lending funds Lake, Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Volusia, to ranchers, growers, farmers, and rural and Brevard. homeowners since 1917. Eligible Members will receive their patronage refund 100% in For perspective, the $145 million would pay cash. the entire Tampa Bay Rays team payroll for 2 ½ seasons, buy 2,400 John Deere Model Currently approximately 1,400 active loans 613D tractors, or 15 Lear Jets! Stretched are in force to approximately 700 of the end-to-end, 145 million dollars would total Central Florida membership. stretch from Lakeland, Florida to Los Angeles almost 6 times, or halfway around “The patronage refund is a reward to our the globe at the equator! Members for their loyalty and is proof positive of our adherence to cooperative Ron O’Connor, Director of Marketing and principles. The patronage refund is a critical Governmental Affairs for Farm Credit of component of the Farm Credit Advantage,” Central Florida, added, “Our members Stanford said. are very pleased because this allows them a lower effective rate of borrowing. “This strong patronage refund continues Anytime we’re successful, it’s because of the tradition of ‘Putting our Profits in our the perseverance and resilience of the Members’ Pockets.’ I am pleased to report farmers. We are a single industry lender, 100% of this patronage refund will be paid so when agriculture does well, we do well. in cash and represents a return of over The farmers, ranchers, and growers elected 16% of earned interest. The resilience and by fellow member/borrowers to serve on perseverance of our Farm Credit Members the Board of Directors are in tune with the through one of the most devastating industry and what it takes to be successful. depressions since the 1930s has helped We’re thankful to share this great news.”
IT’S YOUR TIME TO SHINE REGISTER TODAY for Summer Camp at the Plant City Family YMCA! 1507 YMCA Place Plant City, FL 33563 | 813.757.6677 | www.tampaymca.org
· Designer clothing · · Purses · · Shoes · · Jewelry · · Strawberry Accessories ·
Monday - Saturday: 10am - 9pm & Sunday: 12:30pm - 5:30pm
FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
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LOCAL
PLANT CITY PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT E
ach summer the City of Plant City’s Recreation and Parks Department offers affordable youth programs and youth sports programs. Following is a quick reference guide as to various camps available. Please register as early as possible to ensure your child can join in the summer fun!
SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAM
2014 Program dates: June 9 thru August 8 2014 Summer Program Info Flyer & Registration Forms available online at http://www.plantcitygov.com/index. aspx?nid=689 Space is limited at all sites! Complete payment of fee required prior to start of program. Payment plan available! Cash, check or money order accepted at both sites. E-mail or call the site contact person below for more information! Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center Site 1601 E. Dr Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd Ages 5-11 (completed Kindergarten bring report card as proof ) $275 registration fee per child for 9-week program (payment plan available) Fee includes supervision, lunches, activities, field trips, trip transportation & camp t-shirt. Program times: 7:30am - 5:30pm daily (closed July 4 for holiday) Activities include arts/crafts, board games, billiards, indoor/outdoor activities, video games, field trips and special events! Contact: Recreation Supervisor Lillie Brown lbrown@plantcitygov.com or (813) 7579195 / 813-757-9196 Register at the MLK Recreation Center Monday thru Friday 10:00am - 5:00pm Register online at www.activenet.active. com/plantcityrecreation Apologies... on-line registration and credit card use is not available at this time. Planteen Recreation Center Site 301 Dort Street Ages 6-15 (completed Kindergarten -
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Article by Cheryl Johnston bring report card as proof ) $375 registration fee per child for 9-week program (payment plan available) Fee includes supervision, activities, field trips, trip transportation & camp tee shirt. Program times: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm daily (closed July 4 for holiday) Activities include arts/crafts, board games, billiards, indoor/outdoor activities, video games, field trips and special events! Contact: Recreation Supervisor Jason Hargrove jhargrove@plantcitygov.com or 813-659-4256 Register at the Planteen Recreation Center Monday thru Friday 9:00am - 4:30pm Register on line at www.activenet.active. com/plantcityrecreation Apologies... on-line registration and credit card use is not available at this time.
Summer Youth Sports Programs Cheerleading, Soccer, Volleyball, Basketball, Tennis 2014 SPORTS CAMP INFORMATION FLYER AND REGISTRATION FORMS online at http://www. plantcitygov.com/index.aspx?nid=689 2014 Summer Volleyball Camp $130 per camp (includes t-shirt) 10-15 yrs; June 16-19, 2014; 9-11:30AM; PCHS Gym PCHS Volleyball Coach Jessica Thornton jessica.thornton@sdhc.k12.fl.us Wear knee pads, sneakers, t-shirt/shorts, no jewelry; bring water bottle 2014 Summer Basketball Clinic $130 per camp (includes t-shirt) Groupings: 6-14 years 9AM - 3PM Extended hours care must pre-register ($10/hr or $1/minute late fee for late pickups) Session I - June 23-26, 2014 Session II - July 7-10, 2014 Session III - July 21-24, 2014 Coach Chambers wardell.chambers@sdhc.k12.fl.us or chambershoops@yahoo.com 813-757-9370 x288 or 443-668-2729
2014 Summer Cheerleading Clinic $65 per camp (ages 4-14) Age groupings: 4-6 yrs / 7-10 yrs / 11-13 yrs July 29-30; 9AM - 1PM; PCHS Gym PCHS Cheerleading Coach Karen Snapp Karen.Snapp@sdhc.k12.fl.us 813-757-9370 Wear t-shirt/shorts/sneakers; hair out of face; no jewelry 2014 Summer Soccer Camp Hosted by Plant City Area Lancers Soccer $90 per player U6-U12; $110 per play U13-18 Registration: U6-U12 Evening session 6-7:30PM; U13-U18 Evening session 7:30-9PM Camp Dates: June 2-5; June 9-12; June 23-26 6-7:30PM Beginner Soccer Skills Development 7:30-9PM Intermediate to Advanced Soccer Skills Site: Otis M. Andrews Sport Complex WEST More info: 813-476-0409 2014 Summer Soccer Camp Hosted by FC Plant City Ages 8-18 years Camp Dates: June 9-13 Omar Castro’s Soccer Challenge Camp 9AM-Noon; $125 July 14-18 Passing-Receiving / PossessionPositional Camp 9aes 8-18) 9AM-Noon; $125 August 11-15 Technique / Skills Camp (ages 4-18) 9AM-Noon; $125 Camp Site: Otis M. Andrews Complex WEST June 9-13; Ellis Methvin fields July & August European Scout/FCPC Technical Director Greg Peterson, UEFA & USSF licensed coach Summer Tennis Program Plant City Tennis Center, 120 N. Wilder Road, Plant City C. Shane Johnson, Tennis Supervisor
Phone: 813-707-7485 (Fax : 813-7077486) June 11 - August 15 3 sessions of 6 classes each for ages 4-7 & beginners 8-18; Program will also offer lessons for Intermediate and Advanced Juniors Registration for Session #1 May 10 to June 1 Session #1 starts June 9 and ends June 25 Ages 4-7 classes are Monday & Wednesday, 8:15 - 8:45 AM; $25 for 3-week session Beginners 8-18: Monday & Wednesday, 9-10AM; $50 for 3-week session Registration for Session #2 June 23 to June 27 Session #2 starts June 30 and ends July 8 (2 weeks only) Only Session # 2 classes are on: Week 1 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday; Week 2 - Monday and Tuesday Ages 4-7 classes 8:15-8:45AM; $25 for 2-week session Beginners 8-18 9-10AM; $50 for 2-week session Registration for Session #3 July 14 to July 18 Session #3 starts July 21 and ends August 6 Ages 4-7 classes are Monday & Wednesday, 8:15-8:45AM; $25 for 3-week session Beginners 8-18: Monday & Wednesday, 9-10AM; $50 for 3-week session Team Tennis For intermediate to advanced juniors, Team Tennis is a statewide program that allows kids to participate in leagues and tournaments; allows kids to possibly go on to regional/national events. Drills - Monday thru Thursday, 4-6PM Dates - June 9 thru August 14 Cost: $40 per week
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DID YOU KNOW
HIGH SCHOOL EXCHANGE STUDENTS:
“PLANTERS” AND “FARMERS” Article by Plant City Photo Archives & History Center
These are Plant City High School students on tour of the Wheat Ridge High School facility. Linda Harkala is left front, Kay Merrin on the right between two boys. Do not have names for the others yet.
T
here was an interesting relationship between Plant City and towns in Colorado back in the mid 1950s and here is one of the stories. You may remember that in 1956 Plant City High School senior Mary Jane Jackson, who was then the Florida Strawberry Festival Queen, traveled to Glenwood Springs, Colorado, under the sponsorship of the Plant City Jaycees to participate in the National Strawberry Queen pageant. Then, on Saturday, August 11, 1956, the girl from Plant City was crowned the first National Strawberry Queen by Glenwood Springs Mayor J.J. Huntley. By this time planning was well underway for an exchange program between Plant City High School and Wheat Ridge High School. The small town of Wheat Ridge, Colorado, is about 150 miles from Glenwood Springs. And both Plant City and Wheat Ridge were agricultural based small towns with strong traditions. Now thirty of the Plant City “Planters” were going to spend a week in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, and thirty of the Wheat Ridge “Farmers” were coming to Plant City for a week. Under the direction of Principal Donald Yoho, the faculty pulled together and helped the students prepare and plan for the exciting project. The program itself was under the oversight of History teacher
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Rodney Colson and English teacher Rubye Wright. The criteria for selection and admission into the program were rigid and students had to meet many goals over nearly a two-year period to be accepted into the program. The plan called for 30 Wheat Ridge High School students to arrive in Plant City via rail on Monday, November 26, 1956, and spend a week in Plant City and depart Monday, December 3, 1956. The Plant City students were to depart from Union Station on Sunday, February 17, 1957, and arrive at Denver’s Union Station on Tuesday, February 19, 1957, at 7:00 a.m., Mountain Time. In addition to the students having to “earn their own money for travel fares, meals,” etc., they had serious planning and preparation to do. Here is part of what was required: The members of the exchange group shall conduct a workshop in preparation for the exchange trip. They shall set up their own rules for the workshop and each member shall abide by the rules thus set up….Each applicant must be willing to do intensive outside study and research on at least one phase of our community: such as, resources, problems, institutions, industries, history, geography, racial backgrounds, religious and educational resources, etc.
When the Wheat Ridge exchange students and their two advisors arrived in Plant City, members of the Plant City High School exchange group met them and would be their hosts for the week, including having them as guests in their homes. The teachers did the same. Arriving in Plant City the Wheat Ridge students were met at the station and taken directly to Plant City High School for lunch, then attended classes with their hosts, after which they settled into their new homes for the week. After classes each day the students were treated to a complete schedule of activities that included fellowship at Dan Turner’s home, a trip to the Hardees’ place on the lake, a visit to the Horsey plant, dinner at the Country club, visits to phosphate mines, an enjoyable trip to the Gulf beaches, dinner in Ybor City returning from the beach, a PCHS football game and the teen dance that followed. The families were also careful to plan prayer and church time, and the Sunday evening before departing for their homes in Colorado the exchange students were treated to ice cream and cake at the Methodist Church. By the time February came the Plant City entourage consisting of 20 girls and 10 boys, all juniors and seniors, was ready. They included: Jualina Blanton, Carol Cameron, Mildred Campbell, Tommy Crum, Alan Freeman, Jo Garner, Mary Sue Gresham, Dot Hardee (who was not able to attend), Linda Harkala, Daphne Harvley, Conradine Henderson, Phyllis Hill, John Holmes, Peggy Horton, Bruce Howell, Jill Jayne, Joyce Johnson, Pat Kennedy, Charles McCullers, Kay Merrin, Jim Nunnery, Cynthia Percy, Mary Rogers, Ida Lou Sapp, Harold Smith, Phil Thompson, Talmadge Thompson, Dan Turner, Janice Turner, Beth Woody.
After the long train ride the exchange group from Plant City arrived at the Denver, Colorado, Union Station at 7:00 a.m. (Mountain Time) on Tuesday, February 19, 1957. It was exciting. Most had never traveled so far and now, in mountainous Colorado, they wanted to see the hills and the snow. This is what the Wheat Ridge Advocate newspaper wrote: “Parents of the Wheat Ridge high school students acting as hosts arrived with station wagons and cars to take the Plant City visitors to their homes….A festive occasion was celebrated as the decorated cars made a swing through down town Denver.” The students were treated to a “Pep Assembly” Tuesday morning and then were given a tour of the school. Among the agenda items for the week, in addition to attending classes, the exchange students were treated to a skiing trip to Hidden Valley, tours of Central City, the U.S. mint in Denver, the State Capitol, Mile High Center, and the University of Colorado. Sunday the students spent the day with the host families and Monday visited with newly elected Governor Stephen McNichols in his office in Denver. Tuesday, February 26, the group of travelers left Denver Union Station at 3:30 p.m., Mountain Time, and arrived in Chicago at 8:45 a.m., Central Time. After a tour of the city and a movie the group departed Chicago at 11:00 p.m. Friday, March 1, they detrained for breakfast in Jacksonville and then boarded for the last leg of their journey at 9:50 a.m., arriving home in Plant City at 2:12 p.m. It was a trip neither the “Farmers” nor the “Planters” would ever forget. Sources: Plant City Photo Archives and History Center; Tampa Times; Plant City Courier; Carol Cameron.
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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
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CHAMBER COLUMN
GREATER PLANT CITY
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Submitted by Brian West
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The Strawberry Classic Car Show will be held on Saturday, May 17th 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.
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 7543707.
Planes, Trains and Automobiles will return again this year to the Plant City Airport. The event will be held on Saturday, May 17th from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Bring The new Chamber members this month the family. Everyone will have a great time. include: Admission is free and parking is $5.00. • Top Shelf Sports Bar and Grill held their ribbon cutting on May 1st The Greater Plant City Chamber of • Seafood Dive held their ribbon cutting on Commerce will be holding their monthly May 6th Business After Hours on Thursday May • Melissa Snively, Candidate for 15th from 5:15 – 7:00 p.m. The May Hillsborough County School Board event is sponsored by Remedi Spa and will District 4 held a ribbon cutting on May be held at 511 W. Alexander St. Suite 1. 13th The Business After Hours is usually held • Smokin’ Aces BBQ will hold their ribbon the third Thursday of each month and is cutting on May 20th at 11:00 a.m. at 5202 hosted by a current Chamber member. Thonotosassa Rd. The gathering provides an opportunity • Safety Training and Consulting will hold to network and just spend time with each their ribbon cutting on May 27th at 11:00 other in a casual environment. If you’ve a.m. at 3338 Porter Rd., Lithia never attended a Business After Hours • Oracle Home Health Care will hold their event, come out and join everyone. ribbon cutting on May 29th at 11:00 a.m. at 1602 West Timberlane Dr. The Bike Show will be held on Saturday, June 7th in Historic Downtown Plant City Keep an eye on the Chamber calendar from 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. The show features for new business ribbon cuttings at www. hundreds of bikes from all over, with plantcity.org. Then, make time to come join everyone riding in for a relaxing afternoon everyone to learn a little about each business, in downtown. For the enthusiast, there are wish everyone luck, and participate in the bikes of all styles, makes, models, and both ribbon cutting photo. new and old. The show is always a little different, but there are often antique bikes Each month, the Chamber holds a Contact where owners have spent countless hours Breakfast. This month’s breakfast will be restoring them to their former glory. And held on Wednesday, June 11th at 7:30 a.m. like the Car Show, many of the downtown in the Grimes Agriculture Building on the merchants are open longer hours to grounds of the Florida Strawberry Festival. accommodate the crowds.
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The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for Seafood Dive on May 6, 2014, at 238 West Alexander Street, Plant City. Seafood Dive is a family owned and operated fresh seafood restaurant. They have 3 locations, Plant City, Brandon and Apollo Beach. Their newest location in Plant City, owned by David Amen, offers fresh homemade family recipes and reasonable prices. For more information call: 813-704-6998.
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The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting on April 22, 2014 for Michael Scionti, a candidate for Circuit Judge in Hillsborough County, Group 19. Michael is a Florida native and lifelong Hillsborough county resident. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Florida State, and his Juris Doctor from South Texas College of Law. He has spent the last 18 years serving our community as a lawyer, legislator, soldier and diplomat. Michael was elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2006 and 2008 where he served on the Florida Commission on Capital Punishment, the Military and Veteran’s Affairs Committee, among others. He is a practicing attorney, and a soldier in the U.S. Army Reserves and has served combat tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. For more information, contact Michael @ 813-476-3686.
Jess Anderson index JUNE14.indd 1
5/2/2014 6:32:36 PM
The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting at the new Winn-Dixie Store on April 9, 2014. Formally SweetBay, the store is located at 205 West Alexander Street, Plant City. Henry Falcon, Store Director, and staff, welcome everyone to stop by and see specials that are offered daily. Founded in 1925, Winn-Dixie (a subsidiary of BI-LO Holdings LLC) operates more than 480 stores and 380 in-store pharmacies in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi. They are one of the largest food retailers in America, and employ approximately 63,000 team members. For more information on Winn-Dixie, go to www.windixie.com
The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting at Stone Ledge Manor, located at 12006 McIntosh Road, Thonotosassa. Stone Ledge Manor’s Secure Memory Care has specially trained staff who care for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. They provide 24 hour supervision and assistance with medication management, meal preparation, and all other seniors’ activities of daily living. For more information call: 813-986-7900.
FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
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EMERGENCY CENTER DOCS ARE TOPS Interview by Cheryl Johnston Photography by Anthony Sassano
A quick tour of the 60-year old South Florida Baptist Hospital offers solid evidence that the facilities, service, and ongoing community support have only improved with age.
all Board Certified in Emergency Medicine, which is uncommon in our industry. They also very much care about their patients and we regularly receive comments to that effect.”
time. Our training programs also encourage the team to be continually aware of how words, thoughts and actions can impact patients and their families. We encourage them to be involved in the community also, and they are!”
Focus: How many team members and physicians work at SFBH?
Karen Kerr, South Florida Baptist Hospital President, explained recently why she is enjoying “the time of my life” in her work with what Plant City folks lovingly call “our hospital.”
Kerr: We have 700 team members plus 200 physicians of all specialties, and our amazing volunteers that we absolutely couldn’t do without.”
“You are about to meet the director and assistant director of our Emergency Center . I think you will see clearly how a great staff can make such a difference in the level of care.”
We think you’ll enjoy learning more about South Florida Baptist Hospital through President Kerr’s perspective and responses to the questions we posed recently. Read on! Focus: In your 20 years with SFBH, you’ve witnessed many changes. Describe one that excites you today. Kerr: “This is not your typical community hospital. We have been able to improve services, facilities and technology that enables us to provide the highest quality care, and our patient satisfaction scores support this.” “Even though it has been open since 2006, I am still excited about the state of the art design of our Emergency Center (EC). We now have 28 patient rooms that surround the inner core where the doctors and nurses handle their administrative paperwork. Each room, with doors on two sides, offers a unique level of privacy for the patient. We have a separate entrance for ambulance deliveries, so those waiting in our beautiful and very comfortable lobby need not see the trauma. Triage is now done in the private rooms, so between that fact and the quieter atmosphere provided by more walls and doors, waiting families think we’re not as busy. We are, with approximately 40,000 EC patients a year, but they just don’t see it now. “We’ve also streamlined the process to more quickly register EC patients. If they’ve been here before, we have palm vein technology available to pull up prior information, which is especially helpful. Our goal is to get a patient into a bed and seen by our team as soon as possible. And computers direct the ambulance personnel as to which room they should directly take the patient.” “Another thing I’m proud of is that our EC physicians are
Focus: What is something else you would like readers to know about their hospital? Kerr: Despite the Affordable Care Act challenges all hospitals are facing, South Florida Baptist Hospital is constantly looking to improve our care. The two additional and larger operating rooms (600 sq.ft. and 700 sq.ft.) have facilitated our growth in the surgery department. This allows us to keep the robotic equipment in the room and not have it stored elsewhere. This equipment increases the surgeon’s field of vision from 2D to 3D and provides for a more precise and responsive procedure. Also, some may not know that we offer a full range of surgeries, with the exception of open heart and brain. We do perform neurospine surgery, but not brain. Our doctors refer those patients to St. Joseph’s Hospital, and our transport system is excellent, too.” Focus: Would you like to brag on your staff a bit? Kerr: Definitely! Our hospital staff is tops! We all work with the mindset we’re taking care of our family, friends, and neighbors. Our team members are very compassionate and caring, and we all believe it’s important to have that culture in a small town because we might see our patients in the grocery store one day and hope they’ve been pleased with our care. I hear frequent patient comments about all the smiles they see in our ‘Disney environment,’ which makes me smile. Our team members are the face of the hospital to the community. We understand daily, that it’s one patient at a
Dr. James Bartlett, Assistant Medical Director, Emergency Center
Dr. James Bartlett, Assistant Medical Director, EC, is married to Lindsay and father to their five children, ages 1 to 10. The Brigham Young University graduate earned a master’s degree in Public Health and his medical degree at the University of Utah. He completed his Emergency Medicine Residency at Tampa General Hospital as well.. In April he also became the Medical Director for the Plant City Fire Department. The oldest of 8 children, he was born in Australia and knew as a sophomore in high school that he wanted to be an EC physician. He also had always wanted to work in a community hospital. Focus: Do you enjoy your work as an Emergency Medicine physician? Bartlett: Yes, I do. I loved medical school and the emergency medicine training and I love the Emergency Center here. I especially enjoy the doctors and the seamless “trust”
DR. JAMES BARTLETT
ASSISTANT MEDICAL DIRECTOR, EMERGENCY CENTER
we’ve developed in our team approach. It’s a fast-paced environment with a great and friendly staff. We act like a family. I like that we do the right thing and do our best. Even though the work can be stressful because of the critical situations, we bond quickly with our patients. It’s nice to educate them and teach about their illnesses and what they might be facing. The verbal thank-you’s are gratifying and the handwritten letters will always be a treasure. Focus: What features in the SFBH Emergency Center benefit patients the most? Bartlett: The design is so functional and provides for good workflow. Every one of the 28 rooms has their own TV and are secure with the privacy created by 4 walls. It’s also very quiet, so much so that we have more opportunities for excellent communication with patients. When visitors don’t see anyone in the waiting room, they don’t understand we can actually be full with patients, but they do seem to appreciate the calm atmosphere. Our team is wonderful, caring and compassionate, with a wide variety of sub-specialties. I also like that we get to keep patients here at South Florida Baptist Hospital after their EC evaluation has been completed. It is always a pleasure to see patients and their families around the hospital during that stay and get to follow-up on their ongoing care.. I appreciate the opportunities to interact with the families as they continue to visit during recuperation. I think it’s very important also that I can help educate patients and their loved ones with regard to their health situation during their time with us. We also have close communication and relationships with the primary care doctors in the area. Often we can call that doctor and arrange for an appointment soon after release from the ER. This is a luxury not typical of other Emergency Centers. Focus: You shared that you worked for Microsoft to pay for your schooling and that you’re somewhat of a techie. Share a little about how technology helps doctors today. Bartlett: First, computers and the internet allow us access to the medical databases where we can verify things we need to confirm for proper treatment, such as specific drug mixtures and dosages. In the early 1900s, there were only 10 or so pharmacy drugs, but now there are hundreds and thousands of meds in varying doses. We use apps on our phones to access medical reference material and have a virtual medical library now at our fingertips. South Florida Baptist Hospital continually works to upgrade to new technologies for treatment and surgeries, which is very important in improving the level of care. Electronic medical records are another example of technology’s value to both doctor and patient.
Dr. Brooke Shepard, Medical Director, Emergency Center
Dr. Brooke Shepard, Medical Director, EC, is a fourth-generation Floridian from Alachua. She and her husband Jason, a Hillsborough County Paramedic/ Firefighter, have two small children. The University of South Florida graduate (MD; 2005) also has a master’s degree in Public Health and completed her residency at Tampa General Hospital in Emergency Medicine before her first position after training with South Florida Baptist Hospital in August of 2008. She has always desired to use her Emergency Medicine training in a small community hospital and today she’s living that dream. As of January, 2013, Dr. Shepard now leads a team of 8 full-time Board Certified Emergency Medicine physicians, 4 full-time mid-level providers (nurse practitioners and physician assistants ), plus nurses, paramedics and emergency medical technicians. She has also been the Medical Director for the Temple Terrace Fire Department since 2009.
After working in a larger city’s EC, I didn’t expect that South Florida Baptist Hospital would have such a well-designed EC facility and this level of great response. This is an incredible hospital and incredibly friendly, too. When I first arrived, I had to get used to everyone saying, ‘Hello, Dr. Shepard.’ The SFBH team members really do care about each other and make me feel part of the family. Focus: Tell us a few things you think we might not know about the EC? Shepard: Over 75% of our hospitalized patients are admitted to the hospital through the Emergency Center. Our EC is equipped with the physicians, staff and resources to take care of any critical situation, to stabilize a patient and make the appropriate decisions about their next level of care. Other hospitals and contractors come to see how well our Emergency Center is designed and functions, so they may model theirs after the South Florida Baptist Hospital Emergency Center. They also should know that our system to transfer and transport patients to other facilities if necessary is really impressive. They need never worry because we have great relationships through BayCare and St. Joseph’s Hospital. The other thing most don’t know is that about 20-30% of our EC patients are kids. Our Emergency Medicine Physicians are well trained in Pediatrics and know how to handle any type of emergency, whether it be a fever, broken bone or more serious condition. We all have children of our own and know what it is like when your child is not feeling well or injured. Although most of our young patients are treated and released home, it’s comforting to know that if the child does need transfer to a higher level of care at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital that we can call on the St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Pediatric Transfer Team staffed with a Pediatric Nurse and Paramedic to transport the child to that facility in Tampa. For those children that can be admitted for treatment at South Florida Baptist Hospital we have a pediatric wing. We also have pediatric hospitalists, pediatricians and family care physicians who care for them while admitted. Focus: So, is your work anything like what your patients see on television medical shows? Shepard: No, and it’s frustrating because those one-hour programs are not reality. I’m not a big fan of TV, but we’ve had patients and their family members expect their care and treatment to happen in that same time frame. Focus: What thought would you like to leave our readers with about SFBH? Shepard: This is Plant City’s hospital…where generations of families have received excellent care and volunteered and been involved in supporting activities. We are looking out for our own here and it’s a great place to be. I’d like to invite women to register for our next Ladies Night Out event on May 20, when they can tour the Emergency Center and see firsthand how we operate. It will be time well spent, we promise. Focus: Thank you, Karen Kerr and Drs. Shepard and Bartlett, for teaching us a little more about the hospital that holds the heartbeat of our community. We’re happy you’re here and wish you many, many years of career satisfaction here in strawberry town.
MEDICAL DIRECTOR, EMERGENCY CENTER
Shepard: I love what I do and I’m very happy here—the chance to make an impact, to provide reassurance, to relive suffering and hopefully to give patients some answers about their conditions and concerns. The work is challenging, stimulating and never boring. I’m always learning and researching. I look forward to my job every day because of the staff and the people I can help. After all, how many can say they’ve saved someone’s life. I want to look back one day and know I did something important and hopefully made life better for my patients and their families.
DR. BROOKE SHEPARD
Focus: Why do you enjoy your work so much?
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Brandon Regional Hospital’s Free Standing Emergency Department
Exceeding All Expectation
hospital services, particularly in Emergency Services. Recently, Brandon Regional Hospital took a major step in ensuring that this commitment would be a reality. “Every hospital wants to be a hospital of choice in its community. For us, this is more than just a slogan. For us, this must be a reality,” said Eng. “To do this we must provide tools for our staff to do the remarkable work that they are capable of,” he added. Brandon Regional Hospital has chosen to have a mission and a vision and value statement that reflects its hospital and especially its employees. They are committed to making it personal to what they do. To this end, employees and leadership alike developed their own mission, vision and value statement and developed a program to commit to it. New Mission: • To provide our patients with quality care through innovation, education and compassionate care. New Vision: • As a compassionate community hospital, we will be the destination of exceptional care by exceptional people. New Values Statement:
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• Brandon Regional Hospital is dedicated to providing quality, relationship-based care that promotes healing through: accountability, safety, integrity, and collaboration and compassion.
At a ceremony commemorating the staff ’s commitment to the hospital’s new mission, vision and values, Bland Eng stressed that all employee recognition programs will be aligned with the hospital’s new mission, vision and values statement. Bland Eng says, “We sincerely believe that each of us…employees, managers, physicians and volunteers play a key and critical role in the patient and family experience. I have asked everyone to commit Since its opening over 25,000 patients have been treated at Brandon Regional’s Free to taking an active role in growing this culture and set the standard for an outstanding Standing Emergency Department. Patients from all ages from Plant City, Fishhawk and patient experience.” Lakeland have sought care at the free standing Emergency Department. “The community’s response was greater than anticipated,” said Bland Eng, Brandon’s CEO. “What is particularly gratifying is the wide range of ages as well as the greater than anticipated service area. We sincerely thank the community for its support,” he added. n October 4, 2012, the community witnessed the grand opening of Brandon Regional Hospital’s 11,000 square foot emergency room facility located near Aldi’s Supermarket on the south side of Plant City at 3065 James L. Redman Parkway.
The Emergency Center allows for a high level of quality care, providing the community with: • Quick access to all Emergency Room care including heart attack and stroke emergencies • Board certified emergency medicine physicians, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year • On site full service laboratory services • State-of-the-art digital radiology services featuring low radiation dose, CAT scan and diagnostic x-ray systems. • The center is supported by over 45 specialties – the most of any emergency center in the area. More Good News: ED Expansion at Brandon Regional’s Main Campus With construction slated to begin in November 2014, the hospital’s main campus will add a 72-bed, 84,510-square-foot emergency room with two additional 64-slice CT machines, a dedicated pediatric emergency department entrance, an EMS entrance with an elevated helipad and free valet parking. As an HCA facility, Brandon Regional Hospital’s Emergency Departments all offer access to waiting times by texting “ER” to 23000 or visiting PlantCityER.com. COMMITMENT TO “EXCEPTIONAL CARE BY EXCEPTIONAL PEOPLE” When Bland Eng took over as CEO he made several personal commitments. One in particular was that all market areas realized a substantial difference in the delivery of
Brandon Regional Hospital 3065 James L. Redman Pkwy., Plant City, Florida 33566
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Call The Doc
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When to Use Call The Doc Following are some common conditions that Call The Doc physicians may address via phone, video or email consultation. Additionally, a variety of lab tests can be ordered and administered in your home. A physician will be available to discuss your results. Acne, Asthma, Allergies, Headache, Acid Reflux, Ear Infection, Stomach Virus, Sinus Conditions, Pink Eye; Rashes, Urinary Tract Infection, Sore Throat, Cold & Flu, Fever, Nausea, Vomiting, Constipation, Hemorrhoids, High Blood Pressure, Diabetes Call The Doc’s telemedicine services provide affordable, convenient, secure access to healthcare 24/7/365 anytime, anywhere. Members connect with a nationwide network of board certified physicians through phone, email, and secure video. By seamlessly connecting patients and physicians, Call The Doc makes healthcare services both convenient and cost-effective.
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The Process After a licensed nurse verifies membership with the program, documents medical history and the medical concern or issue, the information is sent securely to a licensed doctor in the member’s state of residence.
ost people are unaware approximately 70% of all doctor office visits for common The doctor then contacts the call center within 3 hours to complete the doctor consultation (Note: average callback time is between 30-45 minutes). Once the doctor completes the conditions could be replaced with a telemedicine consultation with a doctor. diagnosis form, it will be available in Call The Doc’s EMR (Electronic Medical Record) Today, thanks to the web, Americans have access to incalculable amounts of health- for future use. related information and resources. These offer unprecedented opportunities for proactive involvement in one’s own well-being. But how do you sort through it yourself ? And how Where allowable by law and with sufficient medical history for the patient, the doctor can write prescriptions. Call the Doc cannot write prescriptions for narcotics/DEA controlled do you know what’s accurate, effective, or even safe? substances. Call the Doc! “We are providing the future of time-and-money-saving, affordable health care, so give Call The Doc’s telemedicine services provide affordable, convenient, secure access to our services our try,” invites company Vice-President Stephen Rossiter. healthcare 24/7/365 anytime, anywhere! He also offers you and your family members a promise: “If you are not 100% satisfied with And everyone is eligible, whether or not a medical insurance plan is in force, because no the service, Call The Doc will refund your money!” age limits or restrictions (including pre-existing conditions) apply. Its members connect with a nationwide network of board certified physicians and licensed nurses through phone, email, and secure video for medical advice and prescription services. By seamlessly connecting patients and physicians, Call The Doc makes healthcare services both convenient and cost-effective. No more appointments or waiting rooms. As a convenient complement to primary care, Call The Doc’s telemedicine service reduces both cost and frequency of in-person consultations by providing physician consultative services for those who, for varying reasons, are unable to obtain medical advice or care from their primary care physician. Benefits include: 24-hour access to Board-Certified physicians and licensed nurses* Excellent solution for Insured and Uninsured Americans No restrictions for age or pre-existing condition Electronically-accessible medical records** Nurse follow-up on every consultation Available in Spanish and English Appointments unnecessary Family plans are available Prescriptions by phone*** Referrals to specialists Save time and money Additional savings**** No waiting rooms Anyone can join * Not tied in with specific doctor or insurance group; Maximum callback time for a doctor is 3 hours (but average is 30-45 minutes) **Secure HIPAA-compliant storage and retrieval of Electronic Medical Records (EMR). *** Non DEA-controlled prescriptions only, after sufficient medical information is obtained. Prescriptions called in for immediate pickup nationwide, regardless of where you are! **** Prescription discount card, Diagnostic Lab Test and Imaging savings plan all included.
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Call The Doc 606 S. Collins Street Plant City, FL 33563 Toll Free: 1-800-414-7882 CallTheDoc.com
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Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic, P.A.
Dr. Brenda Dukes Chiropractic Physician
CHIROPRACTIC CARE & CHILDREN
Parents are bringing their children in for dayto-day health concerns such as; colds, sore throats, ear infections, fevers, colic, asthma, tonsillitis, allergies, bed wetting, pains, falls and stomach aches. Why is chiropractic care important for a new born? Birth can stress an infant’s spine and developing nervous system. The complications can be: colic, breathing problems, nursing difficulties, sleep disturbance, allergic reactions and chronic infections. As the baby is growing, holding the head up, sitting, crawling and walking are also affected. Why is chiropractic care important for my growing child? Childhood activities cause misalignments that affect the development of the spine and nervous system.
Is chiropractic treatment painful? Chiropractic procedures are gentle and customized to a child’s size, weight and unique spinal condition. These procedures restore the circulatory, respiratory, digestive, hormonal, eliminative and immune systems which allow the body to express a greater state of health and wellness. Chiropractic care and correct nutrition will keep your child healthy and feeling great that they will be asking you to bring them in for care! Special Note: We would like to take a moment to THANK and PRAY for all of the members and their families who are in the military past and present and wish all of you a happy and safe Memorial Day! Blessing, Dr. Dukes and Staff
Dr. Brenda Dukes • Chiropractic Physician 752-2524 • 2401 Walden Woods Dr. • Plant City, FL 33566
Dr. Dukes encourages you to write her with any questions concerning chiropractic care.
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r. Dukes has been in private practice since 1984 and is located in Plant City at 2401 Walden Woods Drive.
After graduating from PCHS in 1976, Dr. Dukes attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, OK and graduated in 1981 with a Bachelors Degree in Biology and Chemistry. Continuing her education, she attended Life University in Marietta, GA, where she received her Doctor of Chiropractic Degree in 1984. In November 1992, Dr. Dukes earned a diplomate in Neurology to expand her knowledge of the treatment of nervous system dysfunctions. She is also Board qualified in Orthopedics. - The benefits of chiropractic care include pain relief, tissue healing and good function for all ages. - Chiropractic uses natural & conservative methods to promote the body’s own healing capacity.
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- Available care for joint pain, neck and back pain, pregnancy care, nutritional screening, headaches, spinal pelvic stabilizers (orthotic), auto injuries, rehabilitation, and massage therapy - FDA approved DPA screens the arteries to find those hidden cardio-vascular problems. - Why suffer needlessly and to maintain your health, give us a call today to receive the benefits of chiropractic care.
Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic, P.A. 2401 Walden Woods Drive, Plant City, FL 33566 (813) 752-2524
RACTIC CARE HILDREN chiropractic treatment painful?
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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
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FOCUS On Medical
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Eye Express M
ay is Healthy Vision Month and the perfect time to make an appointment for your annual Eye Express vision exam. “Annual exams are so important,” said marketing representative Erica Hagan. “Problems can develop quickly and our doctors and staff are highly qualified to help our patients maintain vision quality.”
Folks will find the experience at Eye Express to be “brilliantly different!” Since its beginning 37 years ago with one office in Winter Haven, the locally owned business has expanded to include 11 locations in Central Florida. “We specialize in meeting all of your eye care needs,” offered Hagan. “For example, if you suspect pink eye, please head to Eye Express rather than a walk-in clinic. We are equipped to diagnose accurately and provide the highest level of care for eye issues. Quick help can minimize pain and discomfort.”
Have you recently been diagnosed with Breast Cancer? Women with early stage breast cancer increasingly choose breast conservation therapy (BCT).
A patient-friendly, non-invasive radiotherapy procedure for women with early stage breast cancer. Available right here - In Plant City!
Eastern Hillsborough County residents will enjoy meeting Dr. Roxanne Buffano, O.D., at the Plant City location. In addition to serving patients, she continues ocular disease research and publishes articles in major optometry journals. Along with her Doctor of Optometry degree from Nova Southeastern University, she completed residency work in Hospital Based Optometry / Primary Care (with emphasis in Ocular Disease) at the Tuscaloosa Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Alabama. Dr. Buffano explained why visits to Eye Express can be so important. “Most people associate optometrists with prescribing glasses to help optimize their vision. However, as a primary eye care provider I have detected countless hypertension cases (high blood pressure), inflammatory conditions (such as arthritis), undiagnosed stokes, and even some tumors and cancers through a comprehensive dilated eye exam.” She continued, “Many patients struggle with seasonal allergies with symptoms of ocular redness, itching, and watery eyes. As the pollen count rises, people can manage those by using cool compresses, over the counter topical allergy eye drops and oral antihistamine medication. If the symptoms persist, I suggest you visit an optometrist to discuss the feasibility of a prescription allergy eye drop.” Eye Express accepts virtually all medical and vision plans. Either of these can be used for eye exams. Eye Express is also pleased to offer the most popular designer frame brands and beats 1-800-contacts pricing on all contact lens brands (annual supply per box pricing). In fact, patients will enjoy selecting from the wide variety of products Eye Express offers to meet every budget. Call 813-704-6090 or stop in at 102 Henry Avenue to schedule your exam or shop for your vision needs. Walk-ins are always welcome!
813-719-7705 303 North Alexander Street, Plant City, FL
Randy V. Heysek, MD FACRO
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(still located with South Florida Baptist Hospital)
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Kathryn L. Kepes, MD FACRO
Eye Express 102 Henry Ave, Plant City, FL 813-704-6090 Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
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Helping Hands, Caring Hearts, Inc.
HELPING HANDS CARING HEARTS INC.
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re you a caregiver? Are you stressed out, and need some occasional relief ? We offer assistance with respite care, illness, accidents and much more. We can assist you for a minimum of 3 hours per day up to 24/7. Let Helping Hands, Caring Hearts bring quality care right to your door—where and when you need it most. Since 2007, Helping Hands, Caring Hearts has been dedicated to providing area residents with the care and companionship necessary to maintain independence in the comfort of their own homes. Assistance with everyday tasks can include meal preparation, laundry, linen changes, light housekeeping, lawn maintenance, appointment reminders, delivery services, shopping and errands help, assistance with walking, pet care and most importantly—companionship and friendly conversation. We offer transportation for doctor’s appointments, shopping, outings and much more!
Do you need assistance with daily chores but are too tired and worn out to accomplish very much? Call us and we will be happy to take those chores away from you so that you can enjoy life a little more!
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Whether you or your loved one are suffering from a long-term disability, recovering from an illness, or experiencing the natural occurrences of aging, Helping Hands, Caring Hearts values your privacy and desire for independence. The qualified staff members are dedicated to providing in-home assistance and companionship to help everyone they care for live happier, healthier and more independent lives. Our loving and compassionate caregivers are fingerprinted and we verify all references, previous employers and driving record. Located in Plant City, Helping Hands, Caring Hearts is family-owned and operated company serving Hillsborough, Polk, Highlands and Pasco counties. The Plant City Connections member is also rated A+ with the Better Business Bureau. Since 2007 we have been offering elderly assistance and senior services. References are available upon request. Our satisfied clients are happy to share their experience about our company with you. Rest assured, we will do our best to provide you with the best service possible. AND, as an added bonus your spouse can also receive services FREE of charge. Please call today to schedule a free in-home assessment. You can reach us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Helping Hands, Caring Hearts, Inc. (813) 737-6706 HelpingYouFL.com
FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
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FOCUS On Medical
Heysek and Kepes Radiation Oncology
S
cared and troubled after receiving a cancer diagnosis, the caring staff at Heysek and Kepes Radiation Oncology will treat you like family not a patient. They’re conveniently located on the SFBH campus operating since March 5, 1996. Once inside, you’ll enter subdued, comfortable rooms with soft lighting, pleasant art work, reading materials, puzzles, goodies, and coffee. Striving to treat the whole person, staff organizes individualized resources: counselors, nutritionists, and appointments.
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Oracle Home Health Care
Oracle Home Health Care is conveniently located at the entrance to Walden Lake. L-R are staff members Myrna Rogers, Lori Franks, Jackie Wyckoff, Stephanie Haley, Susan Nieves and Alyssa Courtoy.
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racle Home Health Care is the only locally owned Medicare-certified home health agency in Plant City.
Dr. Randy Heysek and Dr. Kathryn Kepes identify the cancer type, and then create a treatment plan in an effort to overcome the disease. Various forms of radiation therapy are used attempting to prevent cancer cells from dividing. On site nurses, certified radiation therapy technologists, and a medical physicist provide sophisticated treatment. Using individualized radiation therapy, 3-D conformal therapy, high dose radiation for skin cancers, and intensity modulated radiation therapy. AccuBoost is an image guided breast irradiation technique. The doctors use Valencia, a skin cancer treatment to spare deep surgery. The center houses Varian 600C linear accelerator, an extremely precise machine. Heysek and Kepes is well equipped and experienced in treating cancers in a compassionate and respectful environment.
More than a compassionate-care provider, Oracle offers in-home skilled nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy to doctor or hospital referred homebound patients.
Dr. Heysek earned a B.S. with honors in biochemistry; continued at U.F. College of Medicine; interned at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis, and completed his residency in radiation oncology at the University of Maryland Cancer Center. Dr. Heysek is particularly interested in head, neck, and prostate cancer. He has been the Chief of Staff at Lakeland Regional Hospital, and was a previous board member of the American Cancer Society (ACS).
“We’re excited about our office relocation to the Walden Lake entrance complex,” said Jackie Wyckoff. “We want Plant City residents to know our name and the wonderful services we can provide.”
Earning her Doctor of Medicine degree from St. Louis University, Dr. Kepes continued with earning an MBA from the University of Miami. Dr. Kepes is highly interested in breast and lung cancer. She’s also an Honorary Lifetime member of ACS. According to Raquel Fernandes, staff nurse and office supervisor, “We try to make our patients feel like they are a part of our family.” Cancer is a challenge. The Heysek and Kepes team strives to provide total quality care with a difference!
Heysek & Kepes Radiation Oncology 303 N. Alexander St. Plant City, Fl 33563 813-719-7705
Oracle also provides companion care and respite services, such as housekeeping, meal preparation, bathing, etc., for clients who want private pay or who have long-term care insurance. Established four years ago and now with a new office location, the sister company to Matrix Medical is “growing up” after a recent restructuring.
Marketing representative Susan Nieves added, “We have some amazing, very compassionate nurses and licensed clinicians. It’s great to receive those calls offering thanks and hear them request to have this or that specific nurse or therapist as their caregiver again. It’s one way we can tell we’re doing something right.” As a convenience for patients and their families, Oracle Home Health works directly with the insurance companies. For additional information, please call 813-747-7499 or visit oraclehhc.com and the Oracle Home Health Care on Facebook.
Oracle Home Health Care License #299993765 1602 W. Timberlane Drive Plant City, FL 33563 813-747-7499
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Woodside Dental Dr. Pat Almerico, Jr. DDS
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ocated at 704 N. Alexander St., Woodside Dental is home to one of Plant City’s most experienced cosmetic dentists—Dr. Pat Almerico, Jr., DDS. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dentistry and licensed by the Dental Board of Florida, Dr. Almerico comes from an impressive family of dental professionals. In fact, his grandfather served as a dentist and his sister, Lynne, currently practices in Boston. What makes Dr. Almerico stand out is his distinctive blend of artistic and technical skill. Through a combination of state-of-the-art technology, sensible treatment plans, a keen eye for detail, and a genuine devotion to the unique needs of each patient, Dr. Almerico is able to preserve healthy teeth and gums, alleviate oral discomfort, and improve the appearance of smiles on a daily basis.
“I have had dental work done both here and abroad,” stated Plant City resident Mary Porter on an online testimonial. “Every time I went in, it hurt. Then, I met Dr. Almerico. He assured me that it wouldn’t hurt, and at first I was very nervous...but he was right! It was completely painless. I feel very grateful now because I am not afraid to see the dentist anymore.” Dr. Almerico’s philosophy is geared toward preventive dentistry for patients of all ages. Services include dental cleaning, crowns and bridges, porcelain veneers, cosmetic bonding, sealants, tooth whitening, colored tooth fillings, dentures, implants, root canal, botox, laser gum treatment, and more. Through participation in continuing education courses, Dr. Almerico is able to ensure his patients are receiving the latest, most effective treatments possible.
OUR PROFESSIONAL STAFF IS READY TO SERVE YOUR HEALTHCARE NEEDS PLANT CITY IMAGING IS THE ONLY FREE-STANDING OUTPATIENT IMAGING CENTER IN PLANT CITY WITH HAVE FULL-TIME, ON SITE RADIOLOGISTS AND THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY INCLUDING HIGH FIELD OPEN MRI. EASY ACCESS AND CONVENIENCE FOR ALL IMAGING NEEDS. WALK-INS ALWAYS WELCOME!
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813.750.1724 | 206 West Alexander St. Suite 1 | www.RISimaging.com
A member of the American Dental Association, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the Florida Dental Association, you can be sure Dr. Almerico will provide you with a great results and a winning smile. Call him today for a routine check-up!
Dr. Pat Almerico, Jr. DDS 704 N. Alexander St. Plant City, FL 33563 Phone: 813-752-5554 E-mail: almericodds@yahoo.com Web: patalmericodds.org Hours: Mon-Tues & Thurs-Fri, 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Weds, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
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FOCUS On Medical
Pediatric Dentistry of Brandon
(This is a paid advertisement)
Dr. Lyda Lopez, who has been at our Brandon location for over 15 years, “made it so simple to fit in.” “It’s important to feel this way,” Dr. Torres added, because this practice has been here more than 35 years and it’s always a concern as to whether existing patients will be comfortable with the new doctor. According to Kerry Torres, “The transition has been going very smoothly.” The team at Pediatric Dentistry of Brandon understands both the child’s needs and the parent’s concerns. For the last 17 years, Miss Jeanne, Dental Health Educator for the practice, has traveled Miss Jeanne, our dental Hillsborough County teaching children of all ages health educator about the importance of good oral hygiene. Each year she visits more than 300 preschools, elementary schools, parks, recreation centers and home day care operations to spread the good news about proper flossing and brushing techniques. Dr. Torres explains, “If we can educate the parents and their children about the importance of good oral hygiene most of the dental problems will be prevented. Starting at age 1, children should continue seeing their pediatric dentist every 6 months. This is why Jeanne plays such an important role in the Brandon community and we love what she does.” Jeanne has developed several different presentations designed to cater to various age groups, from two years of age to preteens. Each program is designed to educate, motivate and entertain.
Dr. Lyda Lopez and Dr. Jorge Torres pictured
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hy do Tampa area families choose Pediatric Dentistry of Brandon?
To invite Miss Jeanne to visit your child’s classroom or day care, simply contact Pediatric Dentistry of Brandon to arrange for her presentation. She is sure to excite your students with her fun-filled program about the importance of Happy Teeth. Our office is open for dental services from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, and from 8:30 am to 2:00 pm on Fridays.
The answer is simple. From Infants to teens, Pediatric Dentistry of Brandon is To schedule an appointment, please call the office at 813-685-0804 or go to our website the place to go! to submit an appointment request online at www.pedodentbrandon.com. “We treat every patient as if they were our son or daughter,” explains Dr. Jorge Torres. We enjoy providing comprehensive dental care to children of all ages in a fun, family-friendly and professional environment.
The doctor’s wife and Practice Manager, Kerry Torres, added, “Our office is meant to be pleasant and comfortable for everyone! We are making lots of improvements to the office. Our on-deck area features iPads to entertain the children and teens.” The staff is also pleased to report that, “Everyone who comes to our office comes in with a smile, and leaves with an even bigger, cleaner and whiter one.” Families place their trust in us. Our specially-trained pediatric dentists and their care team are dedicated to providing the highest quality dental and orthodontic care in the most appropriate way for your child’s age, personality, medical history, and social development. Dr. Torres believes strongly that “prevention is key and excellent dental health begins with excellent oral hygiene.” He is proud to have two registered dental hygienists, Stacey and Krissy, head of the oral hygiene department at Pediatric Dentistry of Brandon. Dr. Torres loves his work environment. “I feel very happy to be a part of the Brandon community,” he said. “I like the diversity in the population, such different people from so many different countries. People are very friendly and have welcomed my whole family to this area.” The Torres family moved to the area last summer, and they already feel as if they have been here forever. Dr. Torres appreciates that the patients, staff and associate Pediatric Dentist,
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Pediatric Dentistry of Brandon 517 Corner Drive Brandon, FL 33511 (813) 324-2719 www.pedodentbrandon.com
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Plant City Imaging The Tooth Caboose
T
he Tooth Caboose has been a Plant City landmark since the mid-80s when it arrived at its permanent home at the corner of Thonotosassa Road and Baker Street.
P
lant City Imaging (PCI) has served the Plant City community for over 11 years. PCI is the only freestanding outpatient-imaging center in town that has board certified radiologists on-site. Our knowledgeable physicians and technologists are dedicated to providing compassionate care to our patients by utilizing the latest technology to provide imaging services. PCI offers a variety of radiology services for our patients. These include: digital mammography for better detection of breast abnormalities; bone density testing for osteoporosis; high field MRI that combines the comfort of open MRI with the quality imaging of conventional MRI.; X-rays which are available for walk-in patients; multislice CT which combines X-ray images with a computer to generate cross-sectional three-dimensional images of anatomy; and ultrasound or sonography that utilizes high frequency sound waves for diagnosis of many health needs. Flexible appointment times, combined with quick and accurate reports back to your referring physician, make our center the leader in patient satisfaction. We are also pleased to accept most insurance programs. PCI is a division of Radiology and Imaging Specialists (RIS) a physician owned radiology group. For over 45 years, RIS has provided the area with the highest quality medical imaging services. The company employs more than 25 board-certified physicians. Most of our radiologists are certified in sub-specialties such as: interventional radiology; vascular radiology; diagnostic radiology; musculoskeletal radiology and neuroradiology. Five conveniently located facilities throughout Polk and Hillsborough Counties offer easy access for Central Florida patients. Ed Goodemote, CEO, shared, “Our board certified physicians consider it a privilege to serve our Plant City community. Our PCI professional staff strives to provide the highest quality of care for all of our patients.” “Our imaging center is conveniently located and our professionals will work hard to make sure you will have a great experience. At Plant City Imaging, our patients are always our highest priority.”
Plant City Imaging 206 W. Alexander St. Ste. 1 Plant City, FL 33563 813-750-1724 Hours - 8:00AM – 5:00PM
Dr. Howard Howell, DDS, established his orthodontic practice in 1977. After earning an undergraduate degree from the University of Florida and a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Medical College of Virginia, the Plant City native and Plant City High School graduate was ready to return to his roots. Today, the local practice boasts three highly regarded dental professionals: Dr. Howell, an orthodontist, who treats children, adults and those with Temporomandibular Joint Disorders; Dr. Gene Whitehead, past president of the Southeastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry and a board certified pediatric dentist; and Dr. Steve Slavkin, who joined the practice after 10 years as the Dental Executive Director of the Children’s Dental Program for Duval County. The doctors are quick to recognize their “stellar staff.” Dr. Whitehead said, “Thanks to our talented staff and our gracious patients, we are now treating the third generation of many families.” Dr. Howell added, “These ladies have very caring hearts and that shows even in their work outside the office to help those with needs in the community. They share our passion to serve others.” Because the Tooth Caboose offers the full range of sedation dentistry, other area dentists frequently refer the more difficult cases to Drs. Whitehead and Slavkin. These patients might be especially apprehensive or have special needs for which a certified pediatric anesthesiologist is required. The Tooth Caboose dental team also performs adult orthodontics. Many drive over from Tampa, Lakeland and Brandon, like Nancy Pistilli Hurst for these services. She said, “Orthodontic work in my 50’s to correct misalignment is the best money and time I’ve ever invested in myself.” Hurst continued, “I love the staff. They have always worked with me to schedule around the dictates of my career as an attorney. They want you to have healthy, natural looking teeth. At no age do your teeth become less important. Visit the Tooth Caboose. These doctors can definitely help.” For consultation regarding which orthodontic appliances would best suit you or your child or to help your child overcome fear of dental treatment, call today. Great smiles are in your future.
The Tooth Caboose 2005 Thonotosassa Rd. Plant City, FL 33563 Phone: 813-752-3555 Web: bayareasmilesfl.com
FOCUS On Medical
Watson Clinic’s Heart Surgeons
Give Your Heart New Hope
(This is a paid advertisement)
way to when they are released to head home.” Dr. Medina felt the area was supportive of him bringing the latest technology in minimally invasive heart surgery and the newly approved FDA devices such as percutaneous valves. “A hybrid OR was completed at LRMC shortly after my arrival and in very quick pace. It has allowed me to perform new types of surgeries and opened the door to treatment options for patients who previously had no hope.” As to the singular most exciting new procedure Dr. Medina offers, he shared: “Aside from all manners of minimally invasive approaches for heart and chest surgeries, it would have to be T.A.V.R. TAVR stands for Trans Aortic Valve Replacement and is the latest advance in valve surgery. It involves the replacement of the aortic heart valve by use of a catheter through an artery in your leg. It’s a valve surgery without ever opening the chest, which is especially beneficial for frail or very elderly patients who would be at high risk from traditional open-heart surgery. I had the opportunity to be the first surgeon in Florida to perform this procedure in 2008 as a surgical investigator in the pivotal research trial that led to FDA approval and its eventual release for commercial use elsewhere in United States.” (Please note: The TAVR procedure is not right for all patients.) Dr. Medina offered two things he would like folks to know about his practice: 1) “As Benjamin Franklin said, ‘An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.’ You should see your doctor regularly to help prevent or manage problems before they get worse. And, if you end up having to see me, my job will be to make that ‘pound of cure’ lighter to carry; and 2) We are always available, so do not hesitate to call even if it’s just with a question.”
Alberto M. Maldonado, MD Another bi-lingual surgeon, Dr. Alberto Maldonado possesses expertise in a host of procedures, including coronary artery revascularization, valve replacement and repair, peripheral vascular revascularization, and minimally invasive cardiac surgery. His lengthy education and training took place at the University of Puerto Rico in Rio Piedras, the ince 1941, Watson Clinic has proudly served Central Florida by offering the area’s University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital and the University of Colorado/Denver largest team of experts across a diverse range of locations and specialties that serve Children’s Hospital. the community’s physical, emotional and behavioral care needs. His move to Lakeland in late 2013 was a professional one. Dr. Maldonado shared, The Watson Clinic difference is represented most vividly by their growing team of “Having practiced together previously, Dr. Medina is a trusted friend and colleague. That world-class specialists using highly advanced technologies and treatments, including the made the decision to settle in Lakeland an easy one for me.”
S
newest members of their nationally recognized cardiothoracic surgery team - Dr. Alberto Maldonado and Dr. Andres Medina.
Both surgeons are referred patients from primary care physicians and neighboring cardiologists from all across the region and beyond. They are the Clinic’s only heart surgeons in their specialty and practice exclusively at Lakeland Regional Medical Center (LRMC) in Lakeland, a hospital that has been recognized with a ranking in the top 11% in the country as determined by the Society of Thoracic Surgery (STS) National Adult Cardiac Surgery Database. The hospital even constructed a “Hybrid” operating room to accommodate the unique types of surgery performed by Drs. Maldonado and Medina. They are experts in the newer, more minimally invasive approaches to heart care, especially percutaneous transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), mini valve repair, thoracic/lung procedures and vascular surgery. These specialists also manage diseases of the blood supply to the heart, treat various heart defects, perform bypass surgery, tumor removal, vessel and valve abnormality correction, and various additional techniques aimed at treating coronary heart diseases. Andres Medina, MD Dr. Andres Medina, a renowned Cardiothoracic Surgery specialist, was one of the founding surgeons involved in the TAVR technique, a breakthrough procedure that allows for aortic valve replacement in a less invasive manner than ever before. He joined the Watson Clinic team in January 2012 following impressive education and training at Mercer University School of Medicine and the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital. A bi-lingual physician, Dr. Medina had good reason to settle in Central Florida and with Watson Clinic in particular. He explained, “In addition to having family in Florida, there are few places in the state as well organized with an excellent support structure that allows me to take care of the sickest and highest-risk patients. I was convinced my patients would receive the very best care from the time they arrive in the operating room all the
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“Watson Clinic provides multi-specialty care to a large population of patients,” he added. “Their reputation and standing in the community speaks for itself. Plus, I knew the kinds of services Dr. Medina and I could provide as a team would be of tremendous benefit to this community.”
FOCUS On Medical Your heart health is in exceptionally capable hands at Watson Clinic. For more than 70 years, the Clinic’s specialists have built a reputation of having the finest caliber of experts in the country. It’s comforting to know that the next step to your best health is only a phone call and short drive away.
As to the singular most exciting new service/procedure he is pleased to offer, he responded: Minimally-invasive valve surgery. The doctor explained, “Applying the latest advancements in surgical techniques, we can repair or replace a faulty, torn or leaky heart valve without opening the entire chest cavity as once was required. Now, many of the procedures can be accomplished using smaller incisions that allow for faster healing and less trauma to the patient.” “My advice to people in general would be—exercise regularly, avoid smoking, eat healthy and follow the recommendations of your heart specialist,” he offered. “And should you need us, remember that we provide state-of-the-art care in all the aspects of the heart surgery realm, including the latest innovative techniques. We offer services not found in other areas, and we provide them right here in Lakeland, just a short drive from Plant City.” Teamwork The office for both doctors is located at 1600 Lakeland Hills Boulevard in Lakeland, and the phone number is 863-680-7490. Conditions they treat include: Atherosclerosis Atrial Fibrillation Coronary Artery Disease Heart Valve Disease/ Valvular Diseases Of The Heart Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery End-Stage Cardiac Disease Lung Cancer Emphysema Benign Esophageal Disease Mediastinal Diseases and Masses / Thymoma Esophageal Cancer Pulmonary Metastasectomy Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma and other thoracic malignancies Chest Wall Deformities (Pectus) Diseases of the Airway Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) Their long list of surgical capabilities includes: Minimally Invasive General Thoracic Procedures (lung, esophageal, mediastinum Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery Beating Heart Surgery, Off Pump Surgery Minimally Invasive Valve Surgery- Aortic Valve Replacement, Mitral Valve Replacement, Mitral Valve Repair Trans Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)- Percutaneous Valve Complex Aortic Repairs and Replacements Diseases of the Thoracic and Abdominal Aorta Aortic Aneurysms Stenting Aortic Dissections Anatomic and Extra-anatomic Valve Bypasses Carotid Endardectomy Peripheral Vascular Disease AV Access for Renal Patients/ Fistulas Maze Procedure, Renal Clip Aortic Homograft Procedures Minimally Invasive Lung Cancer Surgery Removal of Tumors of the Chest Wall, Esophagus and Mediastinum Surgery for Myasthenia Gravis Lung Volume Reduction Surgery for Emphysema (LVRS) Laser Lead Extraction
Watson Clinic 1600 Lakeland Hills Blvd. Lakeland, FL 33805 863-680-7490
www.WatsonClinic.com/CVSurgery
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FOCUS On Medical
(This is a paid advertisement)
veriMED Health Group Plant City
Patients Agree Patient testimonials prove the practice is making a positive impact. One said, “The ladies who work here are so cooperative and friendly. They’re ready to listen immediately if I have concerns.” Another offered, “Everyone is very nice and Dr. Chandran takes her time. She doesn’t look at her watch every two minutes; she doesn’t rush you. I have recommended my two daughters to her and am very glad I found this place.” Carol W. enjoys the “comfortable office atmosphere” and the “happy smiles on all the staff members’ faces.” Beverly W. described how a simple checkup on a persistent backache and excellent patient care resulted in her husband’s complete recovery after emergency surgery, with no need for chemotherapy “Dr. Diaz ordered a CT Scan immediately, which revealed a large aneurysm—and a mass on the left kidney.” “In his vigilance” she offered, “Dr. Diaz saved my husband’s life.” Featured Services Among the featured services provided are:
Annual Physicals, EKG, Spirometry Testing, Age related Injections, Minor surgical t veriMED Health Group, Plant City you get more than just medical attention. procedures, same day appointments and in-house laboratory services. You get our undivided attention. With complete health care services, we offer everything from routine checkups to treatment of minor emergencies. Above all, The practice offers 24/7 on-call physician service during holidays, evenings and weekends. we offer patients the kind of old-fashioned personalized service that’s hard to find these Schedule Your Visit Today days! A unique service veriMED Health Group, Plant City provides to prospective patients is the opportunity for an unscheduled, behind-the-scenes office tour, during which time they Meet the Doctors Dr. Alejandro Diaz, Board Certified in Family Medicine, attended medical school at the can interview staff and physicians about why they should consider changing to veriMED Instituto Superior de Ciencias Medicas in Havana, Cuba. He also completed residencies Health Group, Plant City as their primary care provider. in Cuba at “Hermanos Ameijeiras” General Hospital Program of Nephrology and the Educational Policlinic Institute, as well as at Chicago’s St. Mary of Nazareth Hospital For details, visit online at http://verimedhealthgroup-plantcity.com, in person from 8AM5PM Monday through Friday at 1706 S. Alexander Street, or phone (813) 717-9000. Center.
A
Dr. Sumita Chandran, Board Certified in Internal Medicine, attended Stanley Medical College in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India and completed her residency in Internal Medicine at Mercy Hospital in Buffalo, New York, where she received the professional service award of compassion. Exceptional Patient Care Both Dr. Diaz and Dr. Chandran possess the qualifications necessary to help prevent and treat chronic illnesses by providing exceptional and professional patient care. Office Manager Nellie Parham describes the doctors as some of the most caring and personable physicians I’ve worked with in my 30 years of experience.” “What sets them apart from others I’ve worked with is their thoroughness and the quality time they spend with each patient.” The highly qualified and compassionate physicians and assisting staff members make this practice one of the best in the area. Medical Assistant Supervisor Victoria Moreno agrees. “We treat our patients as family members.” Commitment to Community The veriMED Health Group, Plant City staff is also committed to the greater community, sponsoring Plant City Dolphins and Daddy-Daughter Date Nights. Additionally, the practice is a huge supporter of the Senior Fun Fest, always assembling a festive, interactive exhibit where residents can learn more about health care issues and get a chance to meet the staff and physicians. “We believe in this community and truly enjoy meeting those who visit our exhibit,” said Ruesch.
veriMED Health Group, Plant City 1706 S. Alexander Street Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 717-9000 Hours: Mon-Fri 8AM-5PM
FOCUS On Medical
AMERICAN BOARD CERTIFIED
PLANT CITY’S URGENT CARE & WEIGHT LOSS Urgent Care • No Appointment Necessary! • Most Insurance Accepted • Experienced Urgent Care Physicians • On Site X-Rays • EKG & Labs • Stiches • Sore Throats • Infections • Physicals • Sprains • Occupational Medicine • Much More!
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1009 W. Baker St. Plant City, FL 33563 813-759-1232 nowcareclinic.com Mon-Fri 8am-8pm • Sat & Sun 9am-5pm 66
MAY 2014 focusplantcity.com
(This is a paid advertisement)
Now Care Urgent Care and Weight Loss Clinic
N
ow Care Urgent Care and Weight Loss Clinic is conveniently located off Baker Street in the historic district of Plant City, between the downtown area and Alexander Street. Many residents remember this as the old ChambersPeacock building as it has had a long history of helping people in medical need—which continues today. A Florida native, graduate of the University of Florida, and Kansas City, Missouri medical school graduate, Dr. Stephen Strait—a residency-trained and board-certified family physician— opened Now Care Walk-in Clinic in February 2005 after serving as medical director at a large urgent care clinic in Brandon. Since then, his facility has helped patients with anything from the common cold to emergency situations. Dr. Strait is able to help treat and relieve symptoms of sore throats, sinus infections, pediatric fevers, skin rashes and infections, lacerations, bronchitis, eye emergencies, and much, much more. In addition, school, sport, and DOT physical screenings, flu shots, drug screenings, workers’ compensation injury evaluations, X-Rays, and lab tests are available on site. Currently Now Care Weight Loss and Urgent Care Clinic, the medical center now supervises programs that include appetite suppressants, vitamin injections, and diet plans. Combined, these help patients control unhealthy eating habits and give them the power to attain the body they’ve always wanted. Whether a patient is seeking weight loss assistance or treatment of a medical issue, Dr. Strait’s mission is always to fulfill the needs of patients and, in doing so, exceed their expectations for service, quality, and value—all with minimal waiting time. Furthermore, Now Care will strive to earn patients’ long-term loyalty by working to deliver more than promised, being honest and fair, going the extra mile to provide exceptional personalized service that creates a pleasing medical experience. In many cases, when a regular physician is booked or an emergency arises, Now Care is there to provide quick and professional service even after hours. Payments may be made with almost all insurance plans. Medicaid, Medicare, and workers’ compensation claims are accepted as well. Financing plans are also available.
Now Care Urgent Care and Weight Loss Clinic 1009 W. Baker St. Plant City, FL 33563 Phone: 813-759-1232 Web: nowcareclinic.com Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
SO THIS, IS WHAT LITTLE BOYS ARE MADE OF...
EVEN THE MEN AND CANNON ARE HANDMADE!”
FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
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BUSINESS » PROFILE
WALDEN LAKE
CAR WASH AND SERVICE CENTER Article by Amanda Deck
Walden Lake Car Wash and Service Center offers several other discounts to ensure their services are affordable for all. Ladies can receive $2 off a wash on Wednesdays. Local heroes such as nurses, firefighters, law enforcement, and military personnel receive 10 percent off services for their personal vehicles all day, every day. And through the “Early Bird Special” everyone can save $4 off a wash over $10 Monday through Friday from 8 to 10 a.m. In addition, families can earn points for car washes through the Customer Loyalty Card Program. Seven equal a free wash, and you’ll get a free Bronze wash on your birthday! Finally, Walden Lake Car Wash customers can save a bunch with the “Pay One Price” for a month of unlimited car washes starting at just $29 for Express washes!
Walden Lake Car Wash and Service Center, located on Alexander Street, offers several different car wash options.
F
rank Cummings is all about paying it forward. Whether volunteering at the annual Pig Jam or supporting high school sports, Cummings is dedicated to making Plant City a better place to live. “Throughout the year we love to help community organizations, schools, and churches with their fundraising efforts,” said Cummings, a Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, Lion’s Club member, and now, a happy grandfather. In addition to his immense involvement in Plant City activities, Cummings’ thriving business—Walden Lake Car Wash and Service Center—boasts a community bulletin board highlighting upcoming events. “I’m a big believer in giving back to the community,” Cummings continued. Cummings noted that without the community’s support, his business would not be where it is today. In fact, Walden Lake Car Wash and Service Center is a Plant City favorite, winning Gold in the “2013 Best of Plant City” business awards sponsored by The Tampa Tribune.
No matter what car wash, auto detailing, or oil change package you choose, Walden Lake Car Wash saves customers time by offering free vehicle pick up and drop off.
Bonded and insured drivers can pick up and deliver vehicles to your home or office within a 10-mile radius of the Alexander Street location. Customers can also relax in the comfortable waiting room and children can stay entertained at Frankie’s Suds Station where they can disperse multicolored soap on vehicles by pushing a big red button. Stay updated on other special offers by visiting the Walden Lake Car Wash website or Facebook page. The business is open six days a week, but closed on Sundays because, according to Cummings, “That’s family and church day.”
INFORMATION Walden Lake Car Wash and Service Center 1414 S. Alexander St. Plant City, Florida 33563 Phone: 813-752-7226 Web: waldenlakecarwash.com Hours: Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
and helping build our business,” said Cummings. “In just three years, we’ve gone from washing five cars a day to our current average of over 200 cars per day.” Walden Lake Car Wash and Service Center offers several options for customers looking to get their vehicles shined up. Choose the discount Express Wash for just $5 Monday through Wednesday (a $2.99 savings) which includes an exterior wash and towel dry. Bronze, Silver, and Gold washes are available, as well as a Platinum wash which includes the traditional exterior wash and towel dry along with full interior detailing. Walden Lake Car Wash and Service Center boasts a state-of-the-art car wash and Walden Lake Car Wash and Service Center utilizes only the best products on your vehicle. employees will be sure to remove dirt and debris from all of your vehicle’s cracks and crevices from side door panels and cup holders to air conditioning vents and dashboard. Cummings added, “It doesn’t matter what vehicle it is, we’ll wash anything—motor homes, campers, boats. We don’t turn anything away.”
Walden Lake Car Wash and Service Center can also perform routine oil changes on site. They offer a full line of premium Mobil 1 products. Purchase an oil change and “Plant City’s been really good to my family receive 1/2 off a car wash! The dedicated staff at Walden Lake Car Wash and Service Center work hard to by welcoming us into the community ensure your vehicle looks just like new.
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REAL ESTATE » MORTGAGE
5 MISTAKES MARRIED PEOPLE
MAKE WHEN BUYING A HOME - PART 2 Column by Nate Davis
Plant City’s
best kePt
seCret new Home Community at Park PlaCe
• 71 Home Sites on large, oversized lots • Private, gated community located 3 minutes from I-4
L
ast month was the first out of the three articles I will write about five big mistakes that married people make when buying a home. This month, I will focus on the third mistake: having your spouse as a co-signer.
• Natural gas, Double-paned thermal windows, and icynene foam insulation. his income, which is not tied to a mortgage payment on a credit report.
• Custom gourmet brick kitchens
Some people don’t like this idea. They want to be on the loan since they will help pay for it.
• No lot premiums and No CDDs fees
Just know this: In Florida, when married people purchase a primary residence, they will typically be listed on the title to house as a “married man/woman.” This means that even if one spouse is not on the loan, he or she will still have an ownership interest in Well how about this scenario: If Jack and Jill the property. put the mortgage (not the deed to the house, which is different from the mortgage) in Don’t mistakenly think that if Jill is not both of their names, and later they want to on the mortgage or note, she is giving up purchase an investment or vacation home, any ownership to the home. In Florida, it’s they may have tied up each other’s income, generally not true. prohibiting or reducing their capacity to borrow money for a future purchase. If only If you have any questions about this, please Jill is on the mortgage, then Jack can apply call 813-707-6200. My team will be happy for a vacation home on his own, using only to help you.
• 2, 3, and 4 car garages • Prices start in the $190s • Energy Star Certified
It may be in a couple’s best interest to obtain a home mortgage in only one of the spouse’s names, even if there are no credit hurdles. This statement often leaves people scratching their heads.
1809 N. Gordon Street, Plant City, FL 33563
Call Model Center at 813-767-5175 FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
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THE NEW!!!
New soccer club
New opportunities
FC Plant City Select Soccer Try-outs All age groups are for boys and girls. Just show up!! Monday May 19, 2014 Tuesday May 20, 2014
Under 7,8,9,10,11,12 Under 13,14,15,16,17,18,19
6:30pm- 8:30pm 6:30pm- 8:30pm
Wednesday May 21, 2014
Under 7,8,9,10,11,12
6:30pm- 8:30pm
Thursday May 22, 2014 Friday May 23, 2014
Under 13,14,15,16,17,18,19 Under 7,8,9,10,11,12
6:30pm- 8:30pm 6:30pm- 8:30pm
Saturday May 24, 2014
Under 13,14,15,16,17,18,19
3pm-5pm
Where –
Otis M Andrews Sports Complex -2602 East Cherry Street, Plant City, FL 33563
Information- All players required to try-out. All players are guaranteed a position on a team. FCPC is a select soccer program for boys and girls of all levels. FC Plant City has the proven leadership and success rate for developing players and preparing them for their future in soccer. Try-outs are free and no commitments are necessary to try-out. When your child makes a team then all details will be provided at that time. If you have any question please visit our web-site at www.fcplantcity.com or call 813-754-7777. We hope you consider FC Plant City as your home for your child’s opportunities AND FUTURE in the sport of soccer.
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REAL ESTATE
QUICK IDEAS
FOR BOOSTING CURB APPEAL Column by Jo-An Lusk
F
irst impressions mean everything, and when people lay eyes on your home for the first time, they’ll immediately determine whether or not they want to see more. Here are 3 quick and easy ways to boost your curb appeal, from Trulia.com.
• Laying down landscape fabric and securing it into place with pegs. • Covering the area with a nice-looking gravel, like decomposed granite or Russian river cobbles. • Placing an odd number of vertical, eyecatching decorations in the center, such as a planter with blooming annuals. (Why an odd number? It’s a design hack. Odd You know that flower or shrub bed sitting increments look more visually appealing. in the front of your home? You might not Try either one, three or five planters, be able to force it to bloom, but you can still depending on the size of your rock garden.) amplify its aesthetics by adding some fresh mulch. This will instantly upgrade your curb appeal
#1: MULCH
without costing too much money or time. However: don’t place your rock garden close to any deciduous trees. When trees shed their leaves in the fall, you’ll find that they get stuck in the gravel and are nearlyimpossible to remove. Be cautious about the placement of your garden, especially if you The solution will depend on your budget. If live in a humid or heavily-forested area. you can re-mulch twice per year, feel free to indulge in the nicer varieties. If you’re really on a shoestring, opt for something more durable, like pine straw or wood chips, or Recently, the “red front door” trend has even entertain the notion of landscaping become popular. If your home bears a with small gravel. neutral color, such as beige or brown, painting your front door lipstick-red can add some contrast and really make your entrance pop. Nothing screams “modern” and “chic” like a contained rock garden. An easy way to If that’s not your style, try a more muted create this is by: shade like sea-blue, sage-green, or even • Setting a border that visually defines an black. area of your front yard. • Clearing that defined space of all weeds, Happy Selling! leaves and plantings. Organic mulches that are colored with vegetable dyes, like red cedar bark, create the biggest ‘wow’ factor, but the color can fade quickly. Once this mulch fades in color, it loses its charm, causing you to add more.
#3: PAINT YOUR FRONT DOOR
#2: CREATE A ROCK GARDEN
FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 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)
WWW.KPREALTYSERVICES.COM
Your Hometown Realtor!
72
KEYSTONE PARK ON 3+ ACRES
VACATION AT HOME
WHISPERING WOODS
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
How fast can you move? This Beautiful 4 bedroom 2 bath Pool home on a Cul de Sac in Walden Lake! Split Bedroom plan, formal living & dining & family room with fireplace. Master with garden tub & separate shower. Soo many upgrades you need to see to believe! $225,000 Call Linda Howe @ 813-752-0289. #615
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
WONDERFUL COUNTRY LIVING
SHORT SALE IN EAST PLANT CITY
PLANT CITY RENTAL
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
Pool Home with 3 bedrooms/ 2 baths plus a den. Split plan, fireplace, screen enclosed pool & fenced. Priced for quick sale at $84,900. Call 813-659-0990 #616
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
MAY 2014 focusplantcity.com
Beautiful country view! Brand New Screened Porch & New Flooring throughout! Older 2 bedroom 1 bath mobile home for rent in quiet area. Includes water & garbage. $750 Call 813-659-0990. #537
REAL ESTATE » WALDEN LAKE REVIEW
WALDEN LAKE REVIEW Column by Natalie Sweet
This Father’s Day, GIVE DAD THE MANCAVE HE HAS ALWAYS WANTED
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he Walden Lake Community Association Board Meetings are the third Monday of each month at the Walden Lake Community Association office building on Griffin Boulevard in Walden Lake. The next meeting is scheduled for June 18th beginning at 7:00 PM. The meetings are open to all Walden Lake residents. The May meeting was held May 12th. The Board of Directors welcomed new directors Terry Murphy and Sharon Philburn, both of Forest Club and appointed their new officers at their regular April meeting. Serving as President will be Jim Chancy, Bob Hunter is the Treasurer and Heather Updike will be the Secretary. There was a tie on Vice President between Rich Glorioso and Sharon Philbin. Ray Page was not in attendance. Many residents had been asking the Board to take a position on the golf course redevelopment and this came at the April meeting. The Board approved a motion against the rezoning filed by Visions Golf with the city. Director, Bob Hunter, wrote and presented the motion. After much discussion, the Board approved a shortened version of his motion. The final version is: “The WLCA Board of Directors objects to and recommends denial of the rezoning application of Visions Golf, LLC to the Plant City Commission. However, the WLCA Board of Directors, in its objection/ rejection of the current rezoning application, is willing to work with the owner/developer to develop a plan acceptable to the entire
community of WLCA”. You can view the minutes to the meeting and the full motion at www.WaldenLake.org. After soliciting bids, the Board approved a contract to have Hoover Pressure Cleaning, out of Sarasota, maintain the signs at our four entrances. The signage will be cleaned quarterly. I have had requests for a monthly update on what has sold in Walden Lake and have decided to continue to do the statistics quarterly although report sales through MLS monthly. Here is the list of the April sales reported through MLS: 2701 Wedgewood Drive $207,500 1911 Preservation Drive $156,500 3466 Silverstone Court $187,000 2105 E Timberlane Drive $152,000 3208 Stevenson Street $185,000 2403 Sprucewood Lane $142,000 4123 Longfellow Drive $175,000 511 Sandalwood Drive $138,900 4117 Silvermoon Drive $172,000 102 Capri Court South $107,500 3108 Thackery Court $160,000 105 Seville Court South $89,000 4331 Barret Avenue $158,500
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SPORTS
Plant City Little League’s first Board of Directors shown, in 1953, signing the charter that brought the game to Plant City in 1954. Top row (L to R): Harley Miller, Otis Andrews, Denton Cook, Truett “Rip” Sewell, and President Frank Moore. Bottom row (L to R): Topsy Meriweather, Paul Buchman, and Irma Moody. Photo courtesy of Plant City Little League
DIAMOND ANNIVERSARY SEASON
PLANT CITY LITTLE LEAGUE WRAPS UP 60TH SEASON
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lant City Little League will wrap up its 60th season with their annual city tournament that begins May 19 in nine different age divisions. The “Diamond Anniversary” season began with opening ceremonies on February 22, as the league celebrated their heritage and honored eight members of Plant City’s four original teams at Mike Sansone Park before the first pitch was thrown.
Article by Joe Bowles
what he called Little League Baseball in the Williamsport area with three teams sponsored by local businesses that supplied the team uniforms and the first Little League game took place on June 6, 1939. Other Little Leagues followed the example set by Stotz, and by 1948, ninety-four leagues had received charters. When the Saturday Evening Post published an article about Stotz’s invention in the May 14, 1949 issue titled “Small Boy’s Dream Come True,” the idea captured the imagination of communities all across America. From 1949 until 1953, the number of leagues doubled every year. Today there are more than 200,000 leagues comprised of more than 2.6 million players. Leagues are located in every state and in more than eighty countries.
Little League baseball originated in the summer of 1939, when a resident of Williamsport, Pennsylvania, Carl Stotz, gathered his nephews and their sandlot friends together to play a few informal games as they toyed with the idea of establishing a baseball league, similar to the majors with field dimensions that would be appropriate for boys up through age twelve. The following summer, Stotz launched During the explosion of interest following
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the story in the Post, Little League expanded to Florida. Nearby, St. Petersburg was awarded Florida’s first Little League charter in 1948 and in 1953, Plant City was awarded the second charter, followed a few months later by Lakeland.
(Horsey); Joe White (Breyer); Buck Gardner (Southland); and W.A. Kirkland (Kilgore). Ironically, Plant City Little League’s newly elected president sixty years later is Cory Kirkland, the nephew of W.A. Kirkland. And the league’s treasurer, sixty years later, is Rhett Rollyson, the son of Rolly Rollyson who spoke at opening ceremonies and was a member of the 1954 Breyer’s Cubs team. Other 1954 players that were honored were Jimmie Dan Robinson, Tommy Haney, Larry Britt, David Fulton, Terry Fulton and Leon Waller.
The person that locals give primary credit to the launch of Little League baseball in Plant City was former Pittsburg Pirate pitcher and Plant City resident, Truett “Rip” Sewell. Sewell became one of the most feared hurlers in the game with two 21-win seasons and four consecutive selections to the All-Star game. He was most known for his blooper pitch or “eephus” pitch that baffled batters for nearly a decade when In 1956, the league was divided into the paired with Sewell’s fastball. National and American divisions. The four original teams made up National League When Sewell, along with other concerned and the American League was comprised of citizens, drafted a formal request that the newer teams: Civitan, Kiwanis, Rotary enabled Plant City to obtain Florida’s and Optimists, who were later replaced by second charter, the first league game ever the Elks. A few years later, a four-team played in Plant City took place on May 10, minor league was added and today there 1954 at Adelson Field (now home to the are nearly 550 players on 34 boys’ baseball Strawberry Festival) as the Breyer Cubs teams and 11 girls’ softball teams. battled against the Kilgore Chiefs, followed by the Kilgore Giants who took on the Southland Tigers. The first league president was Frank Moore and the managers that inaugural season were H.S. Gardner
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Recreate PMS
SPORTS » ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
SPONSORED BY CHILI’S
Article by Deana Garrison
ZACHARY SCHULTE
3001 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City, FL 813-764-8548 www.chilis.com
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f you are watching a game of baseball at the Plant City Little League field with the Rays team on the field, little six-year-old Zachary Schulte will be there playing his heart out. This young dedicated athlete gives his 110% every time he goes out on the field. He began his fun sports journey in the fall of 2013 and realized he loved baseball. With just two seasons, he has already earned three “game balls.” When asked how he earned those, Schulte replied, “I just played really hard and helped my team.” In Little League, the players usually rotate around to have experience in each position and find the position that fits them. Zachary’s favorite positions are pitcher, shortstop, and catcher. Out of those three, he especially loves being on the pitcher’s mound. When he first started playing baseball, he would shy away from the ball. But with much practice and guidance of his Dad(and coach), he now charges after the ball with no hesitation. He has grown in this sport with the help of his determination to strengthen his skill. He is not the kind of player that just concentrates on his own skill. Zachary cheers on his fellow teammates each time they are up to bat or making a really great play. His great sportsmanship shines through and he plays a huge positive role on his team. In fact, his mother, Shanon Shulte said, “Zachary is a total team player. He always cheers and is happy when one of his teammates does well. He will come home talking about how proud he was of one of his teammates who did something good during the game. He has a big heart.” The skill on the field is not where it all stops. For an athlete to truly be an inspiration, academics should be at the top of the list. Zachary holds his academics to an even higher standard. He works very hard in school and always tries to do his very best. His grades speak for him. Working at above level in most subjects, he definitely sets high goals for himself and works hard to achieve them. With his caring attitude with others, his cheerful spirit, and determination that won’t give up, this young athlete has begun his baseball journey the right way. Congratulations Zachary Schulte for being selected “Athlete of the Month.”
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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
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SPORTS » TEAM OF THE MONTH
PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL
RAIDERS 8U TRAVEL TEAM
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beginning. Other coaches on the team are played 3 games in the last tournament with DJ Brewington, Andy Rowland,and Mark only one strike out that entire day. Trimble. Team members include: Colby Brewington, So far, this team has taken the titles of Jingle Deven Gonzalez, Adan Longoria,Blaine Bell Jam (held in Lake Wales), Central Rowland, Anthony Palestrini, Tanner Florida Challenge(held in Lake Wales), Rollyson, CW Watson, Levi Jordan, Austin and Nations of Orlando-The Empire Trimble, and Jackson Peacock. Strikes Out (held inTavares). An example of how well they pull together This team plays like they have being playing would be their Lake Wales tournament last for many years. At this young age, they can month. They lost their first game to a team even hit them “out of the park.” Yes, that from Sebring. Then, they came on strong is right, I said out of the park. In the last and won their second. Their third game was This travel team was formed out of the tournament,Adan Longoria hit 3 out of a rematch with the Sebring team that had Plant City Little League last fall by Mike the park homeruns and Anthony Palestrini beat them the first game. They were tied Palestrini and has been strong since the hit 2 out of the park homeruns. The team at 2 when time expired so they had to go he Plant City Raiders 8U travel team is at the top of their game. They have won 3 of the 4 tournaments they have entered. Their record in machine pitch is currently 13-3. At league age 8, these second and third grade boys play like professionals. They make it look so easy. They play as a complete team, always helping one another and looking out for each other. Sportsmanship is top notch on this team. These players really know how to stick together to work towards the ultimate goal.
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Article by Deana Garrison to a Texas tiebreaker. The bats came alive that inning and the team scored five runs. When the other team came up to bat they shut them down and won 7-2. They obviously don’t get in too many tangles, but when they do, they know how to pull together and get through it. This is the kind of team that cheers each other on and doesn’t let the small stuff get in their way of playing at top quality. Congratulations to this outstanding and deserving Team of the Month.
FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
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EXTRA » AUTO REVIEW
ANOTHER GREAT KIA
K900 ONLY LACKS IN NAME Column by Brian West
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may have shared this a few years ago. If I didn’t, take notice now. KIA is making some great cars, and their brand is poised to take market share from the likes of Toyota. Over the last few years, KIA has been quietly delivering better and better vehicles to market. They’ve drastically improved their reliability, becoming leaders in innovation and their designs and styling are competitive. The K900 is the full-sized sedan offering from KIA. It’s their luxury offering, and if you can get past the KIA name, you won’t be disappointed. In only its second year, the K900 is making quite a name for itself. If it looks familiar to the Hyundai Genesis (also their luxury offering), it’s no coincidence. It is supported by a platform that is a takeoff of the Genesis. To promote the K900, KIA released a commercial during this year’s Super Bowl featuring Lawrence Fishburne. Fishburne reprised his role as Morpheus from The Matrix. If you are a Matrix fan, the commercial is great. Other than a couple of interior and exterior shots, I can’t really say that they promoted the car as well as they could have.
But lets get to the interior. After all, this is where you’ll be spending your time. It’s beautiful. The appointments are elegant. The design of the dash is simple but makes great use of the space incorporating dual functions within the same gauge design. Add to that a heads-up display, and you’ve got some pretty cool features for the driver. The sound system is over the top. There is a 17-speaker system, plus a sub-woofer and external amplifier. Even the radio thug you encounter at the next red light will be impressed when you crank up this radio dial. The driver also has full control of maps and more without too much effort thanks to a very handy control built into the center console between the armrest and the gear lever. There is also plenty of room for four adults – in all four seats. Even the back seat can comfortably accommodate two 6 footers.
Now it was time to take this sweet ride down the road and put her through her paces. She didn’t disappoint. The KIA 900 is as steady at 80 mph as it is at 20 mph. She handled well. The steering is effortless and overall, she is fun to drive. It was a great experience. Bumps in the road were almost non-existent. The 5L V8 engine produces 420hp, which is more than enough to help One the exterior, the K900 is sleek and you merge safely into and out of traffic, or classy. It has a very long roofline, which even evade the occasional tailgater. This car helps provide more headroom for back can move. seat passengers. It also houses a very large sunroof. The front end has the “tiger nose” If you’re looking for, or even considering grill. a new sedan, it will be worth your time to test drive a KIA K900. The MSRP starts at about $60K, so bring your wallet.
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SENIORS OF THE MONTH JANA WATKINS
A FAVORITES
School Subject: Cosmetology Book: The Bible Hobby: Hunting, fishing, and sharing the Gospel Store: Cosmo Prof and Bass Pro Shops Band/Artist: Mandisa and Chris Young Song: I Will Not Be Moved – Natalie Grant Movie: Son of God and A Cinderella Story TV Show: ESPN and the Outdoor Channel Food: Bacon Wrapped Back Strap (venison) Quote: “God is within her, she will not fail.” (Psalm 46:5) Restaurant: Village Pizza and Smith’s Fried Chicken Hangout Spot in PC: Ooh La La Hair Studio or Salon 607 Sports Team: Georgia Bulldogs
JACOB FORTUNE
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hen you combine academics and love for the community you will find our Senior of the Month, Jacob Fortune. Jacob has a 5.55 GPA and is in the top 7% of his graduating class. He is an AP Scholar, received the 2nd highest SAT score in the school, and obtained a perfect score on his Reading FCAT.
By Ashlyn Yarbrough
sweet smile, intelligent mind, and heart of gold only begin to scratch the surface in describing Jana Watkins. With her hard working, and compassionate personality, there is no doubt that she is the perfect pick for PCHS Senior of the Month! Jana is very dedicated when it comes to schoolwork. With a GPA of 4.56, this NHS student is currently ranked 99th in her class. In the fall, she plans on attending HCC where she will receive her Associates of Arts degree. She will then travel to the University of Georgia to pursue a degree in business. After college, Jana aspires to open up her own salon specializing in special needs services. Not only does Jana excel academically, she has dedicated herself to service and have been involved in numerous organizations! Throughout her high school career, Jana has been apart of FFA, Civinettes, and Raider Buddies. She
is also the president of Skills USA, has been a PCHS JV Cheerleading co-captain and the competition team manager. Her faith is very important to her. She is the leader of “Give ‘Em Heaven” at Bell Shoals Baptist Church where she attends with her parents, Bruce and Caron Watkins, and brother Blaise (16). Jana is certainly an outstanding and well-rounded young lady. All of her accomplishments and awards come as no surprise! She is currently the PCHS Princess for Relay for Life, Raider of Excellence, and has been awarded “Best Attitude” and “Star Cheerleader” for PCHS Cheer. This doesn’t even count the numerous Skills USA and FFA awards that this girl has won! In addition to her academics and extra curricular activities, Jana still finds time to give back to her community. She has been on a mission trip to Nicaragua, fed the homeless, served at her church, and volunteered at multiple activities for PCHS. Her compassionate heart never stops giving. This month’s recipient has set the standard, and represents PCHS with class! Jana Watkins is the perfect pick for this Senior of the Month award.
By Gresham Stephens Boy Scouts. He earned his Eagle Scout award in April 2013. His project included laying a concrete slab at Colt Creek State Park in Lakeland, FL. HE was able to raise over $2000.00 to fund this project that helped the park meet ADA requirements and remove a possible fire hazard. He is a member of the First Presbyterian Church youth group, a member of the National Eagle Scout Association, and has participated in 12 Eagle Projects.
Jacob was a member of the Raider Regiment Marching band and the Plant City High School Symphonic band for 3 consecutive years. While a member of the band, Jacob was awarded Best All Around Freshman, Most Improved Sophomore, and he was chosen as the First Chair Euphonium in both his Sophomore and Junior years. His love for robotics earned him a place on the PCHS Robotics Team, and the team earned Best in the Jacob Fortune has excelled in 2013 robotics competition. academics and community service, which makes him Jacob has been active in the Boy Scouts of America for more than qualified to be 7 years. He was able to attend the Northern Tier and the PCHS Senior of the Sea Base National High Adventure Bases through the month!
FAVORITES
Subject: Calculus and Physics Book: The Stranger Hobbies: Boy Scouts, PCHS Robotics Band/Artist: Zac Brown Band Song: Let It Go- ZBB Movie: Hot Rod TV Show: Through the Wormhole Food: Wings Quote: “It is better to say nothing and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt.”-Abraham Lincoln Restaurant: Nick’s Pizza and Wings Hang Out Spot in PC: Anywhere as long as I’m with my friends. FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
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EXTRA » CANDY’S CORNER
CANDY’S
CORNER Column by Candy Owens
water hose, having a hula hoop contest, or sitting high up in a tree, the whole world stopped for the “Pinky-Dinky” Man. If Kimberle and I were inside and we did not think that we could get outside fast enough, we would yell for David to go outside and flag him down. David would hurry outside and run like the dickens down the street yelling and screaming for him to stop.
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like Ice Cream a whole lot, it tastes good when days are hot. On a cone or in a dish, this would be my only wish, Vanilla, Chocolate, Rocky Road, even on pie Ala Mode. I was driving down Wilder Road this past week and I noticed a man pushing an Ice Cream/Frozen Treat cart towards Mike Sansone Park. I thought to myself that he better have lots of frozen goodies in his cart because the park was full of hot and sweaty kids playing ball. The thought of Ice Cream, Frozen Treats, and playing outside in the heat made me reflect back to my childhood when we as kids in Plant City beat the summer time heat by chasing the “Pinky-Dinky” Ice Cream truck, climbing those old red cement steps at the Dairy Queen, or taking a trip to “Dipper-Dan” at the old Plant City Mall. I can remember those hot summer days when I was busy at play with my next door neighbors Kimberle and David Edison when out of nowhere we would hear the faint chords of the song: Mary had a little lamb. We would scream and we would shout: “It’s the Pinky-Dinky Man!!!!!!!!!” It did not matter if we were watching a T.V. show, building a fort, playing a game of kick ball, riding our bicycles, playing under the
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You see…dealing with the “Pinky Dinky” Man was serious business. He might not come back for a few weeks and then where would we be? I can remember once or twice when it seemed like the “Pinky-Dinky” Man was trying to ignore us. It seemed as if he saw us and proceeded to step on the gas. Well, we could not have that, so we quickly put “Little David” on his trail. David who was wearing his favorite Batman/Superman cape at the time, hopped on his “Big-Wheel” and peddled with the speed of lightning (and his cape flapping in the wind) down the street after him. Needless to say: David got his man! I can remember the yummy treats that we selected: Kimberle would get a “2 Ball Screwball” which was a Sorbet like frozen treat, something like Cherry with a twist of Lemon or Blue Raspberry in an upside down see through plastic cone with two gumballs at the bottom. David would get an orange “Push-Up Pop” which was like an Orange creamy Sorbet encased in a paper roll that was pushed up from the bottom until it was all consumed or a “Drumstick” which was Vanilla Ice Cream in a sugar cone with Chocolate on the top and wrapped in a paper wrapper. When it came to me it was a “Bomb Pop” all the way. The “Bomb Pop” was a Cherry, Lime, and Blue Raspberry- red, white, and blue, rocket shaped Popsicle. My sister Karen would always choose a “Bomb Pop” as well. Those frozen treats were so good and so valuable to us that “Heaven-forbid” if you dropped yours! Well, back in those days we would cry a little, then pick it up and eat it any way. Ha! Ha!
During those hot Summer months when my sister and I were kids my family always enjoyed a trip to the Dairy Queen. I can remember my parents pulling into the parking space and my sister and I jumping out of the car to get in line. If you were a kid and it was your turn to place an order, you would step up to the window on little red cement steps and give your order to this pretty blonde teenager named Rose Hall Peacock. Rose was the girl responsible for the all important signature curl on top of your ice cream cone. Back in those days there were three flavors to choose from: Vanilla, Vanilla dipped in Chocolate, or Vanilla dipped in Chocolate and rolled in nuts. HA! HA! My sister and I always got a Vanilla cone dipped in Chocolate. My Mother would always get something like a Banana Split which consisted of: Bananas, three swirls of Vanilla Ice Cream that were covered with Chocolate fudge, Pineapple, and Strawberries, and topped off with whipped cream, nuts, and a cherry. Mother’s Banana Splits were always served up in a big plastic boat that came with a long plastic spoon which she always saved for us to play with in the bathtub. My Father would get the same thing every time…….. one small Vanilla cone that was dipped in Chocolate and rolled in nuts. Sometimes my parents would order Cuban sandwiches from the Dairy Queen. They swore that they were the best in town. When my Mother said that we needed to go to the mall for something (which was the old Plant City Mall) my sister and I wasted no time getting in the car. Whatever it was that she needed, or my Father needed, or we needed from Grant’s, Publix, Eckerd Drugs, Goody Shoes, The Colony Shop, Fabric King, Fremac’s, McCrory’s, or The
Strawberry Pond, my sister and I knew that we would be able to beg and plead our way into the “Toy King” Toy Store and the “Dipper Dan” Ice Cream Shop. I can remember the long glass freezer cases filled with the most delicious flavors of ice cream and how I would walk back and forth trying to figure out which flavor to choose. You could have a single wafer cone, a double wafer cone, a sugar cone, a sundae, a parfait, a milk shake, a cup, candy sprinkles, whip cream, nuts, fruit toppings, or even the unbelievable double cone with a third scoop on top. We thought we had died and gone to Heaven. This again was serious business. We as kids felt like we were making a life altering choice. HA! HA! After all of this decision making, I usually ended up with Chocolate, Mint Chocolate Chip, or Pink Bubble Gum in a Sugar cone. My sister would always get Strawberry Cheesecake, my Mother would always get Dutch Chocolate, and my Father would always, without fail, get Pistachio. It was… “Indescribably Good!” So many years have come and gone since the days of the waiting outside for the Ice Cream truck and there are so many unique and expedient ways to order Ice Cream these days, but nothing will ever taste as wonderful or make you feel as happy as sitting in those red heart shaped chairs licking a sugar cone filled with Pink Bubble Gum Ice Cream or climbing those little red cement steps and getting a Vanilla Cone dipped in Chocolate with Rose’s famous signature curl or devouring a red, white, and blue “Bomb Pop” , “Push-Up Pop”, or a “2 Ball Screwball” that was chased down by a seven year old little boy on a “Big Wheel”.
EXTRA » DEREK MAUL
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ABOUT THE GOSPEL OF LOVE
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Column by Derek Maul
Plant City
our doctrine (my doctrine… my church… my interpretation) is right, and all those other people and their churches have it wrong.”
June 12, 2014 9 am – 2 pm 2202 W. Reynolds St. Plant City, FL
WHAT IS THE BIBLE?
“D
on’t be in debt to anyone, except for the obligation to love each other. Whoever loves another person has fulfilled the Law” (Romans 13:8).
The Bible, however, is the narrative account of A) God’s evolving relationship with The Children of Israel; B) God’s initiative of redemptive love via the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus; and C) the beginnings of the movement of the Good News into, “Jerusalem, all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8).
The Bible is not the kind of document that comes with one irrefutable, correct, verifiable, conclusive, exhaustive set of commentaries; and the Bible is not the kind of manuscript that lends itself to tidy, flawless explanations. The Bible is the story of God’s reaching in through time and space, and offering healing to a broken world. That’s God’s initiative of love; that’s the work of the cross. It’s our opportunity, “I give you a new commandment: Love each then, to either live into love or to reject it. other. Just as I have loved you, so you also must love each other. This is how everyone And I believe it is quite impossible to be a will know that you are my disciples, when disciple of Jesus - to be a follower of The Way, to be a Christian in the sense that who you love each other” ( John 13:34-35). we are reminds other people of Christ - and Unfortunately, it’s still all too common to fail to live in love. to hear loud, obnoxious, and strident voices, church people who like to make a “Dear friends, let’s love each other, because lot of noise when it comes to judgment; love is from God, and everyone who loves Christians who want to argue every detail is born from God and knows God. The person who doesn’t love does not know because they simply have to be RIGHT. God, because God is love” (1 John 4:7-8). These folk make subjective statements such as, “I go to a ‘Bible-believing’ church,” along In love – always - and because of love – with the half-spoken implication that the DEREK rest of us obviously don’t! In consequence, their read on the above passage from John (You can keep up with Derek Maul’s writing 13 goes more like this: “The world will via his website at www.derekmaul.com) know we are the real disciples because I’m fairly sure that we’ve talked about this subject before in this space, but there are still too many people out there (best guess tens of millions, at least) who evidently need some serious coaching in terms of what it means to live the heart of the Gospel as if The Master really meant it when he voiced the following mandate at the occasion of The Last Supper:
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EXTRA » ARTIST OF THE MONTH
ADAM COURTNEY
LIVING THE DREAM
Article by Heather Davis peak to any artist who lives and breathes to create and you will find that there is not an on/off button that can be pushed to begin or to halt the creative flow. The need to create is an intrinsic part of the very essence of who they are. For local Plant City artist Adam Courtney, art is his life not just a way of life. Everything he sees, touches, or comes in contact with has the ability through his vision to become a piece of artwork.
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When it comes to the type of artwork Adam Courtney creates there is no boxing him in or pigeonholing him. Life is a blank canvas waiting for him to make his mark upon. Whatever the medium may be, Adam has laid his hand to it for the sake of creating art. Whether it may be sculpting with wood, stone, or metal, painting with water paints, acrylics, or oils, or using ink, charcoal, wood burners, or a chisel and hammer, Adam has tried it all. Pure and simple, Adam has an artist’s soul combined with the courage to not just try but excel at whatever he wants to accomplish regarding art. Currently Adam has on exhibition several pieces of artwork at a gallery in Chelsea, New York. Adam’s inspiration for what he created for the gallery came from his family which consist of his wife and their four kids. Adam credits his family for being the motivation behind being the artist that he is. He strives to make his family proud and to teach them that, “even if it’s hard to do your own thing and it’s not the easy route, you can do what you love, you can follow your dream.” These words are made manifest by Adam’s kids following in his steps by always being nearby ready to help him with paint brush or chisel and hammer in hand.
PLANT CITY’S 1ST LEVEL 2 ELECTRIC CAR FAST CHARGING STATION.
Stop in and ask Frank for details on charging your electric car.
WALDEN LAKE CAR WASH AND SERVICE CENTER 86
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One Stop Shop
For All Your Car Needs!
1414 S. Alexander St Plant City, Florida 33563 813.752.7226 WaldenLakeCarWash.com waldenlakecarwash@gmail.com
One philosophy that comes through Adam and through his art is his ability to create art without judgment and an ability to rise above negativity. “If you don’t respond to negativity it does not exist.” Adam states, “I choose to immerse myself in a positive attitude.” It’s this type of positivity that spreads throughout all he does for the sake of creating art. His message “if you are not trying to help people you are not doing what you need to do on this planet.” Art is his message to others to recognize the beauty and positive emotions we can share with each other. Art offers the pathway to begin, have and create the conversation which leads to the connection we have with ourselves and others. It is artists like Adam who lead the way. To view more of Adam Courtney’s artwork you may go to his website at www.adamcourtneyart.com.
EXTRA » WANDA’S WORDS
WANDA’S WORDS
OF WISDOM HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY Column by Wanda “Lewis” Anderson
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or all of you Mom’s out there… I hope you had a wonderful Mother’s Day. I thank God for my Mother. She is such a wonderful, strong woman with unwavering love for God and family.
Have you ever had a Sty? Next time you do try this tip. Soak a tea bag in warm water, then place it to the affected eye for 10 minutes (do not press it against the eye). Repeat this process 3 or 4 times daily. The Tannic acid in the tea kills the bacteria that are responsible for the sty and the warmth helps the pus come to a head and drain sooner. Once the pus drains the sty will go away.
It’s interesting to know how our parents, Did you ever think that scotch tape with grandparents and great parents cured things be an effective aid in mosquito bites? Dab back in the day. rubbing alcohol on the bite first then, place a piece of scotch tape on the mosquito bite. When my sisters and I had a bad cough my This will keep the bite from itching. Mom would rub Vick’s on our chest. Try rubbing Vick’s on the bottom of your feet to Getting an ant bite is painful. Next time relieve a cough. Believe it not, it helps you you get an ant bite simply pour lemon juice stop coughing. over the bite. The acidity from the lemon counteracts and neutralizes the acid in the Whenever, you get an upset stomach you ant bite. can add 1 teaspoon of baking soda (only one) to 6 ounces of water. It will help with These are helpful tips to be used at your own your upset stomach, gas and heart burn. risk and in no way are suggested to take the place of seeking professional medical Have you ever had a wart? If so, dab apple attention if needed. cider vinegar on a cotton ball and apply it to the wart and secure with a bandage, leave Until next time relax, enjoy and be it on overnight. After a few days the wart thankful… may increase in size and throb a little but, it will turn black and fall off. FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
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D & E » DINING PROFILE
TOP SHELF SPORTS BAR AND GRILL
MORE BANG FOR THEIR SHUCK
Profile by Aaron Oberlin ust off the coast of Florida’s Apalachicola oysters, which, from what panhandle, Apalachicola Bay provides everybody says, are supposed to be the best a breeding ground to what many you can get.” seafood enthusiasts tout as the best oysters. The oysters are piled on a large tray of ice About six hours south, in Plant City’s and served with plenty of fresh-cut lemon, historic district, those same mollusks saltines, horseradish and cocktail sauce, and headline the menu for the area’s latest a bottle of Crystal Hot Sauce suits the end addition, Top Shelf Sports Bar and Grill. of each table. While the mound of food is impressive, it’s the size of each oyster that “I wanted a place where people could come commands attention. and hang out. But more so, I wanted there to be a place in Plant City where people “They’re huge,” said Brian Sampson, who could get some really great oysters,” said stopped by for a bite on his way home to Lawrence Brown, who opened the sports Lakeland. He lifts a cracker and gestures to bar after fours years of working in the the hunk of meat on it, “ I mean, look at this Publix distribution center in Lakeland, Fla. thing. I had to cut it in half for my cracker.”
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“It’s been sort of an ongoing dream of his for about 10 years, and now it’s our dream,” said his wife, Zee, who smiles when she talks about her husband. “And these are
Sampson smiled and stuffed the saltine into his mouth. Having been topped with Crystal, he washed the bite down with a swig of Yuengling Lager.
One tray comes with 12 oysters, which is “We’ve had several people ask us to make more than enough to feed one person. a garlic, parmesan combination,” said Zee. “They really like it, so if people want to mix While Florida law prohibits the harvesting sauces, we’ll gladly serve them.” and possession of oysters “less than three inches in greatest dimension,” the ones The wings are good bar fare and perfect served at Top Shelf did not require a while watching a football game on one measurement. of the three 60-inch TVs hanging on the wall. There are also plenty of 50-inch and The sports bar offers them steamed or raw. 40-inch TVs, so whether patrons sit at the Since the portion is large, try sharing a tray large bar or at a booth, there is still a good and ordering something else. view of the game. For those who want to mix it up and have heftier appetites, go with the massive double cheeseburger, which comes with two fresh black angus patties and is “doubled down with bacon.” It is cooked to order, so patrons can have it “rare to well done,” said Lawrence.
“We wanted a place of community,” said Zee.
It feels like that when sitting inside. On a Thursday evening, some tables were seating families, others had friends meeting up to watch the NFL Draft, and the bar was surrounded by people looking to get out of Or go with the bone-in chicken wings the house for some entertainment. (boneless, breaded wings are available, too). They are unbreaded and come in batches While many oysters in Apalachicola Bay are of 10, 20 or 50. For a little extra money, an resting in the serene waters and growing to order can be all flappers or all drums. notable size, they also have the atmosphere buzzing at Top Shelf Sports Bar and Grill.
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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
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Large/Xtra Large Pizza
garlic knots
Drink/Sandwich/Sub
Salad
dine in or take out
with any XL Pizza dine in or take out
with any Sandwich or Sub
Dine In or Take Out
Must present coupon at time of purchase. Not to be combined with other offers. One coupon per visit, per order. 6/15/2014
Must present coupon at time of purchase. Not to be combined with other offers. One coupon per visit, per order. 6/15/2014
$2 off a XL Supreme 6 Free Garlic Knots Free Small Drink $1 off any salad Excludes Cheese Only Pizza Must present coupon at time of purchase. Not to be combined with other offers. One coupon per visit, per order. Exp 6/15/2014
Must present coupon at time of purchase. Not to be combined with other offers. One coupon per visit, per order. 6/15/2014
an Voted Best Cubw! ro a in s ar 6 ye ty! Thank You Plan
NOMINATED FOR BEST CUBAN AND MILKSHAKE
t Ci
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1505 N. Wheeler St. Plant City, FL 33563
813-752-3779
You can View our Menu online at www.Thestrawberryhut.com Try our Homade Spanish Bean Soup, Fresh Chef and Greek Salads
Notice portions shrinking while prices increase?
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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.
We’re not just Pizza! Come try our HAMBURGERS, CHICKEN, & STEAK, too! Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials. View or print our menu at abcpizza.com
813-752-5146
114 North Alexander Street • Plant City, Fl. 33563 BRING THIS AD IN AND RECEIVE 15% OFF Cannot use this coupon with any in House Specials or Discounts!
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D & E » RECIPE OF THE MONTH
Grapefruit Pound Cake 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 ½ cups plain non-flavored yogurt 1 cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 3 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/3 cup freshly squeez ed grapefruit juice 2 tablespoons of grapefruit z est 1/3 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
NOT SO SWEET
GRAPEFRUIT POUND CAKE
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ay 1st was my mother’s birthday, and so naturally I wanted to bake a dessert of some sort to celebrate. However, my mother is not a fan of sweets, and one of her favorite ways to describe her diet is to say “I would rather have crab and butter than chocolate any day”. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard that. Her idea of dessert is a fruit salad, maybe with whipped cream. Maybe. But I guess I’m a traditionalist, because I still couldn’t help but make a cake in honor of her birthday.
Recipe by Gail Jones The question remained, how do you flavor a cake for someone who doesn’t like desserts? With grapefruit, of course. The bitter, distinctly flavorful fruit has just a slight hint of sweetness and is the perfect citrusy fruit for late spring in Florida. I set to work trying to find a recipe, but every recipe I found seemed to be trying to mask the flavor of the grapefruit with gallons of sugar. I quickly lost the little patience that I do have and decided to create a new recipe of my own.
Grapefruit Simple Syrup 1 cup grapefruit juice (about 1 ½ grapefruits) ½ teaspoon of z est 1/2 cup water 2 cups sugar
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9 x 9 inch cake pan. Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt into 1 bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk the yogurt , 1 cup sugar, eggs, z est, and vanilla . Then whisk the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. After they are comple tely mixed, stir the vegetable oil into the batter as well. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for about 50-70 minutes. Like with any cake, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. While the cake is baking, thoroughly mix all ingredients for the simple syrup into a stovetop pan and place on low heat and simmer for about 5 minutes. When the sugar has comple tely dissolved and the syrup has the right consistency, remove it from the heat. Add the syrup to the cake once it has cooled down, or add syrup to each slice as desired . In case you were wondering my mother ate almost half of the cake by herself, with the simple syrup nonetheless. She said it was the best cake she’ d ever had. But was there really ever any doubt?
» DINING GUIDE
FIND DEALS ONLINE AT MYFOCUSCOUPONS.COM
SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT
CHANCY’S CATFISH SHACK
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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
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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
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f you love deep-dish pizza, Olde Town Pizzeria is the only place around to find it. The cheesy Chicago-style pizza is a popular item on the menu, as well as the award-winning Strawberry Walnut Salad and thin crust pizzas. In addition, they have an array of delicious pastas, salads and sandwiches to satisfy all taste buds. This family-owned and operated restaurant is a Plant City favorite for those who love high quality food and friendly service.
3011 JAMES L REDMAN PARKWAY PLANT CITY, FL 33566 (813) 752-5800 • WWW.OLDETOWNPIZZERIA.COM
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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
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hether you’re in the mood for soup & salad or the tastiest mexican food in town, Taco Rey Mexican Grill is the King! We are 100% authentic and here to serve you 7 days a week. Our food is freshly prepared for your viewing pleasure and with only the finest ingredients. We offer daily lunch specials and call to order service! Adults and kids will love our menu and Aguas Frescas De Sandia, traditional natural home made drinks.
1818 JAMES REDMAN PARKWAY PLANT CITY, FL 33563 813.754.2100
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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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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
813.752.8946 Take Out Available
W. Prosser Drive,
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1
can’t miss
event
PLANES, TRAINS & AUTOMOBILES
The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce will present the annual Planes, Trains & Automobiles event on May 17 at the Plant City Airport (4007 Airport Rd.) from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Countless displays, demonstrations, and information will be on-hand about planes, helicopters, remote control planes, model trains, automobiles, the fire department, and more. The Plant City Police Department will also conduct K-9 demos at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2 p.m. Enjoy free flights for children (ages 8-17) provided by the EAA Young Eagles (first come, first serve), a kid’s play area, opportunities for aviation and traffic safety scouting badges, vendors, and computer flight simulators. Admission is free and parking is $5. For more information, contact the Chamber at 813-754-3707.
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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RECURRING EVENT Plant City Social Dance Club Stardust Dance Center 1405 S. Collins St. Fridays | 8 to 11:15 p.m. (Doors open at 7 p.m.) Members and Associate Members, $5 | Nonmembers, $7 Third Sunday | 3 to 6 p.m., Covered Dish Dinner 2 to 3 p.m. (Doors open at 1:30 p.m.) Everyone $5, please bring a covered dish to share For more information, call or text Ken Miller at 863-409-7714 or send an email to pcsocialdanceclub@ yahoo.com. Visit stardustdancecenter.com/pcsocial for May’s schedule with bands, themes, attire, and other information.
MAY
17 SATURDAY
Strawberry Classic Car Show Historic Downtown Plant City | 4 to 9 p.m. The car show features cars that are at least 25 years old, with many classics from the 40s, 50s, and 60s. This is a great family event if you’re looking for a relaxing evening. Several of the downtown merchants are open longer hours to accommodate the crowds. For more information, contact the Chamber at 813-754-3707. Kids Do Broadway 2014 Plant City Entertainment, Inc. Theater | 7 p.m. 101 N. Thomas St. Come enjoy a night of Broadway’s greatest hits to be performed by some of the area’s best young performers. Songs from “Bye, Bye Birdie,” “Pippin,” “The Wiz,” and many more will be presented in this musical revue to help raise funds for the Sunshine Theater Company’s summer production, “Disney’s The Litter Mermaid Jr.” Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 for members, $12 for senior citizens and students through 12th grade, and $14 for nonmembers. For more information, contact PCE at pceshows. com.
JUNE
04 WEDNESDAY
Plant City High School Graduation Ceremony Florida State Fairgrounds Expo Hall | 1 p.m. 4800 U.S. 301, Tampa For more information, contact the Plant City High School office at 813-757-9370. Strawberry Crest High School Graduation Ceremony Florida State Fairgrounds Expo Hall | 4:30 p.m. 4800 U.S. 301, Tampa For more information, contact the Strawberry Crest High School office at 813-707-7522. Durant High School Graduation Ceremony Florida State Fairgrounds Expo Hall | 8 p.m. 4800 U.S. 301, Tampa For more information, contact the Durant High School office at 813-757-9075.
05 THURSDAY
Bowling Tournament Family Bowl | 2 p.m. 2250 U.S. Highway 92 E. The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce invites the community to the annual bowling tournament. For more information, contact the Chamber at 813-754-3707.
06 FRIDAY
Mystery Dinner Theatre HCC John R. Trinkle Center | 6 p.m. 1206 N. Park Road. Solve a mystery while enjoying a delicious dinner brought to you by the Friends of the Bruton
18 SATURDAY
Kids Do Broadway 2014 Plant City Entertainment, Inc. Theater | 4 p.m. 101 N. Thomas St. Come enjoy a night of Broadway’s greatest hits to be performed by some of the area’s best young performers. Songs from “Bye, Bye Birdie,” “Pippin,” “The Wiz,” and many more will be presented in this musical revue to help raise funds for the Sunshine Theater Company’s summer production, “Disney’s The Litter Mermaid Jr.” Doors open at 3 p.m. Tickets are $10 for members, $12 for senior citizens and students through 12th grade, and $14 for nonmembers. For more information, contact PCE at pceshows. com.
24 SATURDAY
MudTitan Mud Run 5701 Pless Rd. With over 30 obstacles, this popular Plant City 5K mud run will challenge runners with wind, height, sliding, climbing, and mud! Proceeds benefit The Youth Alliance, a group that delivers powerful messages of hope and encouragement to students in cities across America. Walk up price is $99. For more information, visit themudtitan.com. Memorial Library. Show actors include Mayor Mary Thomas Mathis, Florida Strawberry Festival General Manager Paul Davis, and more. Tickets are $45 and can be purchased at Sunshine State Federal Savings and Loan (112 E. Baker St.), Regions Bank (2303 Thonotosassa Rd), and Holiday Inn Express (2102 N. Park Rd.). Proceeds will benefit the Bruton Memorial Library. Doors open at 6 p.m., dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m., and the show begins at 7:30 p.m.
07 SATURDAY
Mystery Dinner Theatre HCC John R. Trinkle Center | 6 p.m. 1206 N. Park Road. Solve a mystery while enjoying a delicious dinner brought to you by the Friends of the Bruton Memorial Library. Show actors include Mayor Mary Thomas Mathis, Florida Strawberry Festival General Manager Paul Davis, and more. Tickets are $45 and can be purchased at Sunshine State Federal Savings and Loan (112 E. Baker St.), Regions Bank (2303 Thonotosassa Rd), and Holiday Inn Express (2102 N. Park Rd.). Proceeds will benefit the Bruton Memorial Library. Doors open at 6 p.m., dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m., and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. Bike Fest Historic Downtown Plant City | 5 to 9 p.m. The Bike Fest features hundreds of bikes from all over, with everyone riding in for a relaxing evening. For the enthusiast there are bikes of all styles, makes, and models, both old and new. Many of the downtown merchants will be open longer hours to accommodate the crowds. For more information, contact the Chamber at 813-754-3707.
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FOCUSOBITUARIES
James Fred Snellgrove, 80 of Plant City died April 8, 2014, at South Florida Baptist Hospital in Plant City. Born October 17, 1933 in Dublin, Georgia, he was the son of the late Hubert and Tommie Cochran Snellgrove. He was the husband of Gladys Richter Snellgrove, she survives. James was predeceased by son, James Fred Snellgrove, Jr.; sister, Gloria Rogers. He served as a SP3(T) in the Army from 1954 until 1956, was an ironworker, and a member of Full Gospel Fellowship. Also surviving are brother, Hubert Ray Snellgrove, and grandson Chad Alan Snellgrove. The family will be having private services. James will be interred at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL. Charles Fredrick Norris, 77, of Plant City, Florida, passed away on Wednesday, April 16, 2014, at his home in Plant City, Florida, after a lengthy illness. He was born in Newell, WV, on August 7, 1936, the son of the late Robert W. Norris and Olive (Stephens) Norris. He graduated from Wells High School in 1954.
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Chuck was a veteran of the US Navy, serving 1954-1957. After the Navy Chuck married his loving wife of 54 years Kathleen Proctor. Together they raised three children, Kelly Ayoub of Pittsburgh, the late Charles R. Norris, and Steven Norris of Plant City. Chuck retired from the Pompano Beach Police Department after 20 years of service. He was a mounted police officer before becoming a detective in the Narcotics Dept. He is also survived by a brother, Melvin Norris of Newell, his sisters, Linda and Becky Norris of Newell and five grandchildren, Jacob Norris of Plant City, Ferris, Jordan, Cody and Shane Ayoub of Pittsburgh, Pa. and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, and his son, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Robert, James and Steve Norris. Visitation will be held on Monday, April 21, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., at the Nixon Funeral Home in Newell, where a funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 22, 2014. Burial will follow at Shadow Lawn Memory Gardens, Newell, WV. The Tri-State Veteran Burial Group will conduct military service. MinElla Kelly Glover Gray, 97, passed away at home early Sunday, May 4, 2014. Kelly was born in Kingsport, TN in 1916. She and her
parents moved to Florida in 1924, settling in the Plant City area. She later attended Florida State College for Women in Tallahassee. In 1937, she met the love of her life, Manuel Glover, to whom she was married for 21 years until his death. She was married to her second husband, Charles Gray, for 20 years. Kelly learned new pursuits from her husbands - such as hunting, fishing and golf but above all, she loved to read, follow politics and play bridge and was known to be an excellent player. Kelly was predeceased by her parents, Orion Earl and Edith Denham Kelly, and her husbands, Manuel M. Glover and Charles Gray. She is survived by her great-niece, Barbara Ward Bennett (Robert), her dog Buddy and her many friends. A graveside service will be held at the Committal Shelter at Lakeland Memorial Gardens, Wednesday, May 14, 2014 at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Good Shepherd Hospice, Volunteers in Service to the Elderly (VISTE) or SPCA Florida. A Celebration of Her Life will be held November 8, 2014 at the Beacon Terrace Clubhouse.
Hollis Strauss, 90 of Plant City, died May 13, 2014, at Lakeland Hospice House. Born January 1, 1924 in Plant City, Florida, he was the son of the late Fred and Lydia Lee Strauss. He was predeceased by his first wife, Margaret. He was the beloved husband of Janice Lanier Strauss, who survives. He grew up in the Cork area, was a member of Plant City’s First Baptist Church, served in the Marine Corps during WWII, and was stationed throughout Southeast Asia to include occupied Japan. Also surviving are daughter, Martha (David) Wilk; 5 step-daughters; sisters, Elizabeth Bourne and Dorothy Bennett; grandchild, Neil (Tabatha) Davis; 4 great grandchildren. A Funeral service will be 10:00 AM, Friday, May 16, 2014, Haught Funeral Home Chapel, 708 W. Dr. M.L.K. Jr. Blvd. Plant City. A public visitation will be 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Thursday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be made to the family at www. haughtfuneralhome.com
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MOTHERS AND DAUGHTERS MOTHERS AND DAUGHTERS
Created Calvin R. and Jackie Mathews by Calvin R. &by Jackie Mathews
ACROSS 1. Float on the wind 5. Renault model of the ’70s-’80s 10. Gloria Estefan or Desi Arnaz, Sr. 15. Bird call 18. Cinder or salmon ending 19. Eat at 20. Last in a series 21. Clay, today 22. Mother and daughter 26. __ voyage 27. BBQ favorites 28. Broad scarf 29. Making certain 31. Intl. alliance 33. __ d’oeuvres 35. Do penance 36. See 56 Across 43. One known for raising Cain 44. “Thinking __”; card sentiment 45. Petrify 46. Carmelite garb 50. Greenish blue 52. “'...Be he alive, __ he dead...” 54. Prefix for Atlantic or form 56. With 36 Across, mother and daughter 57. Cold garnish 59. Morris __; late U.S. Rep. from Arizona 61. Actress Samantha 63. Charged atom 64. Weisshorn or Taschhorn 66. “Dies __”; hymn at a Requiem 67. La-la lead-in 68. Graceful deer 69. With 118 Across, mother and daughter 76. 6th-day creation 77. “For shame!” 78. Cologne three 79. Bond, for one 80. Distance up: abbr. 81. Flap the arms 84. Frigidaire rival 86. Ward and others 90. Slammer 92. Papal name 94. Just __; slightly 95. Art district 96. Tropical tree 98. Landing place 100. Chou __ 103. Family member 104. Mother and daughter 108. Lasso
110. Name for a Swedish boy 111. “Each Dawn __”; 1939 James Cagney film 112. Wonderful feeling 115. Tea exporter 118. See 69 Across 122. Half of MIV 123. Mother and daughter 126. Stopover 127. Sea swallows 128. City SSE of Buffalo 129. Neighbor of Tenn. 130. Suffix for long or strong 131. Wordsworth, for one 132. Steel plow inventor 133. Elected officials: abbr.
16. 17. 23. 24. 25. 30. 32. 34. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 47. 48. 49. 51. 53. 55. 58. 60. 62. 65. 69. 70. 71. 72. 73. 74. 75. 76. 82.
DOWN 1. Beloved accordionist 2. Latin wings 3. Botch 4. __ feather; punish, oldstyle 5. “That’s the __ my worries!” 6. White-tailed flier 7. Musical passage 8. Pts. of speech 9. Resound 10. Written agreement 11. Ms. Thurman 12. Actress Neuwirth 13. Son of __ 14. Bahamas capital 15. Rustic home 1
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63 68
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83. Steaming flows 85. Dwight’s rival 87. City in northern California 88. King warned by Isaiah 89. Sweet drink 91. Indian prince 93. Most audacious 97. __ sorts; cross 99. Ms. Verdugo 101. “Fun with Dick __”; 1977 film 102. Birdbrain 105. “...Do I __ eat a peach?...” 106. Wynken, Blynken __ 107. Masters 108. Destroys 109. 1/8 of 1 gallon 112. Adams or Falco 113. Enraged 114. Culture prefix 116. Just sitting there 117. Busy as __ 119. Pleasant 120. “__ See Clearly Now” 121. Endings for profit and puppet 124. Officeholders 125. Corncob
20
27
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8
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36
7
Companionless Building addition Below: Sp. Mealtimes China cabinet Like some flushes “__ Beautiful Doll”; ragtime love song Catch Greek letter Currier’s partner Gather crops Scandinavian Outback maker Boring event Duration Scottish wee one “__ It”; ’43 Red Skelton film Actress Daly Dishonest one Self-assurance Gilbert and Rue Precipice __ hand; assist Inclines WWI French soldier Island nation Prank Almost “__ la Douce” Make orderly __ tonic; bar order For votes Gender: abbr. “__ your pardon”
111 115
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© Puzzle Features Syndicate FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY MAY 2014
101
sale
Memorial Day %
25
OFF
ALL sofas AND
NO Credit
Refused
*
5 pc bedrooms while supplies last at regular retail
ALL SOFAS
9 5 7 2 E SAV
5
Durango
sofas, sleepers, klik klaks, & futons
89”
824
$
reg. 1099.95
100766
excludes sectionals
ALL 5 PC
BEDROOMS 5 pc master bedrooms & 5 pc kids bedrooms
5 pc includes: headboard, footboard, rails, dresser & mirror excludes kids bunkbeds
5 pc Sugar Palms 993849/50
queen poster bed
(headboard, footboard, rails)
dresser & mirror
9 SAVE 225 $
0
674
reg. 899.90
Prices and offers effective May 13 - May 26, 2014
years 1904–2014
703 South Evers PLANT CITY (813) 754-3547
MON.– FRI. 10AM–8PM SAT. 10AM-7PM • SUN. 12PM-5PM
* 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 May 26, 2014 at participating stores only.
102
MAY 2014 focusplantcity.com
Cool the Heartburn
Terry P., a real patient of South Florida Baptist Hospital
Robotic surgery speeds recovery. Terry lived with the pain of a hiatal hernia for 24 years. After his robotic surgery at South Florida Baptist Hospital, he no longer needed pain medication and returned to eating and sleeping normally. “I didn’t realize how sick I was until after the surgery. I feel like I’m 20 years old again.”
General Surgery ■ C.R. Hall, MD ■ Stephen M. Butler, MD
■ 40% of Americans suffer three to four episodes of heartburn a week. ■ Medications can help, but some can increase your risk of bone fractures,
intestinal infection and pneumonia. ■ Studies show most patients find relief for 10 years or more after robotic surgery. Minimally invasive robotic surgery at South Florida Baptist Hospital provides patients with less scarring, faster recovery, shorter hospital stays and reduced pain. Our robotic surgeons are highly experienced in performing even the most delicate procedures for esophageal concerns.
BC1402193-0514
To see Terry’s story, visit SouthFloridaBaptist.org/Robotics. For a physician referral: (813) 443-3073
Life is better in the Quick Lane. Auto service just got better!
813-757-6429
Quick Lane® at Jarrett-Scott Ford provides all the services your car or truck needs most. All our services are performed by factory-trained experts and on your schedule. No appointment necessary and you’ll get service while you wait, even on evenings and weekends.
2000 East Baker Street Plant City, FL 33563 Service Hours Mon-Fri 7am-7pm Sat 7am-3pm
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.
SYNTHETIC BLEND OIL CHANGE
$
15.95
Includes up to 7 quarts of motorcraft synthetic blend oil. Plus shop supplies and tax. Most cars and light trucks, excludes diesels and full synthetics. Coupon must be presented at time of write up. Cannot be combined with other coupons or in-store specials. See Quicklane at Jarrett Scott Ford for details. Expires 06/15/2014
$
4 TIRE ROTATION AND BALANCE
34.95
Plus shop supplies and tax. Most cars and light trucks. Coupon must be presented at time of write up. Cannot be combined with other coupons or in-store specials. See Quicklane at Jarrett Scott Ford for details. Expires 06/15/2014
ALL PARTS & SERVICE
100 OFF
$
up to
Coupon must be presented at time of write up. Not exceed 10% of parts and labor. Cannot be combined with other coupons or in-store specials. Cannot be used for retail parts, tires, or collision repair. Does not include sales tax and hazard waste disposal. See Quicklane at Jarrett Scott Ford for details. Expires 06/15/2014
ALL MAKES AND MODELS! WE’LL BEAT YOUR BEST TIRE PRICE GUARANTEED! 104
MAY 2014 focusplantcity.com