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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AUGUST 2014
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Wishing everyone a Safe and Happy Labor Day!
Freshest MEAT and LOWEST prices in town! 4
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Felton’s Meat & Grocery 617 North Maryland Ave. Plant City, FL • 813-752-1548 Monday - Saturday 7am-9pm Sunday 7am-8pm
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CONTENTS August 2014 | Volume 13 Issue 08 | focusplantcity.com
Wells Memorial and Event Center Since 1896, our goal has been to help families, neighbors and friends through their deepest sorrows. Our affiliation with the Dignity Memorial network allows us to build on the tradition by offering exclusive beneets. As a result, we’re nding that more and more people are turning to us to help them plan their nal arrangements. To learn more about the services we offer, call or visit us at Wells Memorial.
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14 Local At FOCUS Magazine, we love highlighting the good news occurring in Plant City. And nothing brings more joy to us than featuring those hard working individuals who strive to make our community a better place to live. This month, check out our stories on Pete Battaglis, Winnie T. Durant, and several others committed to our city.
51 Feature: Back to School
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Nails & Spa
It’s that time of year again....back to school! When not stocking up on the necessary supplies, check out our guide featuring insight from several area educators on how your child can succeed this school year.
56 Spotlight: Omar Castro In order to achieve your dreams, you must put in the hard work. No one knows that better than Omar Castro, one of Plant City’s most talented athletes. This young man is on his way to greatness, currently playing professional soccer in Germany. Learn more about his inspiring story in this month’s Spotlight Interview.
62 Business: Bill Lavender Credit Restoration
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84 Dining: Taco Bus Taco Bus delivers the real taste of Mexico using fresh ingredients in a custom kitchen. Taco Bus has several locations throughout the Tampa Bay area, so whether you’re visiting one of their sit-in establishments or purchasing a taco from their yellow bus, your taste buds will be sure to experience authentic Mexican flavors.
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ONTHECOVER Photography by Anthony Sassano
Omar Castro
Signs Pro Soccer Contract
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Specializing in Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry
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LETTER FROM THE
PUBLISHER This has been a summer to remember!
the Evergreen Dramatic Club for students, is another who enjoys children enough to create a With gorgeous weather, time to slow down a safe and nurturing environment where creative little and plenty of special happenings around kids can explore and develop their talents for town each week, the time has passed all stage performance. too quickly. We’re also sharing the heartwarming story of Thankfully, through Facebook Kandie Kane’s miracle. If you’re an animal lover, and other social media posts, don’t miss reading how Savannah Lowe’s muchwe’ve been able to vicariously loved Siberian Husky is now safe at home eight enjoy all your vacation trips years after being stolen. to destinations like the beach, the mountains, and even to Focus is also proud this month to publicly salute countries abroad. and congratulate Pete Battaglia, Minister of Worship at Plant City’s First Baptist Church, on But next week, it’s back to his 25 years of service and upcoming retirement. reality for our families, our Can you imagine how many lives of every age children and the educators this man has touched through his passion for the who are helping to develop Christian faith and music? Only heaven will tell the next generation of for sure. productive citizens. What we know here, though, is that every day In this our annual Back-to- in this city, someone is showing a kindness or School issue, we’ve tried to sharing a helping hand. So many of our readers include stories that highlight live to give…and as a result, the Plant City folks who put time, energy community’s reputation for compassion and and effort into encouraging generosity continues to grow. students to make the most of their school years and all they Thank you, once again, for being who you are and involve. doing what you do to make a difference. Your stories are among those that matter for eternity. Soccer professional Omar Castro, for example, has returned to Plant City with his expertise to train young players here in the skills that result in wins - in sports and in life. Warmest Regards, Winnie Durant, who is re-establishing Mike Floyd
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
Publisher Mike Floyd mike@floydpublications.com Sales Jennifer Chamberlain jchamberlain@floydpublications.com Tammy Simpson tsimpson@floydpublications.com Art Director Anthony Sassano asassano@floydpublications.com Distribution Tony DeVane
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.
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
FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants and many local venues. Advertisers warrant and represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. Focus Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All letters and their contents sent to Focus Magazine become the sole property of Floyd Publications, Inc and may be reproduced thereof. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Floyd Publications, Inc. Use or duplication of material used in this publication is prohibited without approved written consent from Floyd Publications, Inc.
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Back to school with Southside,
now we’re looking cool!
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With plenty of practice, the 44-member cast and crew of “Legally Blonde: The Musical” played to sold out audiences both weekends of the performance.
PLANT CITY ENTERTAINMENT’S
LEGALLY BLONDE THE MUSICAL PACKED THE HOUSE
BY CHERYL JOHNSTON | PHOTOS COURTESY OF SCOTT KANTROWITZ
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he 44-member cast and crew of Plant City Entertainment’s “Legally Blonde: The Musical” opened their sold out production on Friday, July 17 at the PCE Theater on Thomas Street to an audience ranging in age from 10 to 90. And from the smiling faces when they greeted the appreciative attendees at play’s end, it was evident the first night had been a hit. PCE Board President Marsha Passmore explained, “Sold-out crowds from both weekends repeated the same positive response: ‘Fabulous!’” The musical follows the 2001 film’s storyline from the book by Heather Hach. The cast practiced several months to learn the music and lyrics of Laurence O’Keefe and Neil Benjamin. Director Jennifer Fenner, one of
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PCE’s founders in 1980, has seen the organization grow from humble beginnings to an acting company now presenting at least four shows annually in its own building. The chemistry was a given for young spouses Pamela and Benedict Heaps in their leading and first PCE roles as the pink-clad, Delta NU sorority grad Elle Woods and rising star law partner Emmett Forrest, the man who eventually wins her heart at Harvard Law School. They both play multiple instruments and have performed in numerous Lakeland Community Theatre shows with musical director Nick Folkes. The camaraderie among cast members was apparent on stage, a helpful benefit since more than half were newcomers to PCE.
Real-life personal trainer and first-time actress Emilie Plants, for example, was one of those. But thanks to a voice coach, she appeared comfortable in her singing role as Brooke Wyndham, the play’s fitness instructor, who with Elle’s legal help, was acquitted of murdering her wealthy husband. Tyler Hollis, a 20-year theater member, played the demanding Professor Callahan, who eventually grew to respect Elle’s abilities, then startled her with an awkward pass. His embarrassment felt tangible to the audience. Three players—Oliver Sprague, Billie Martin and Vince Evangelista— each performed three different roles. Paula Gamble of Lake City brought granddaughter Sarah Anello, 12, and great-niece and great-nephew,
Jade, 12, and Noah Hancock, 10, to see the musical of the movie they’ve loved. “It was fun to watch them dress up for the theater,” Gamble said. “It’s good to expose them to live performances at this age.” Sarah and Jade sat mesmerized on the front row, hoping for a glimpse also of Bruiser, Elle’s pet played by Benedict Cumberpooch, a Chihuahua. “Thank you so much for bringing us,” the girls told Gamble. “We had fun and the actors were really good, too.” “So were the brownies during intermission,” added Noah. “Plant City is blessed to enjoy a high level of local talent,” offered Passmore, “and a community theater that offers Broadway-type shows at affordable prices.” PCE Board 1st VP Dodie White agreed with her sister. “The cast members were ALL so very talented. I think this will go down in PCE history books as one of our best ever. When I filled in for Dana Fortinberry the last weekend, I met our newest performers backstage that night. The #1 thing I attribute for the show’s success is the cast and crew’s professionalism and the ‘family’ atmosphere. The ‘family’ leader, Jennifer Fenner, is an amazing director who pulls the best out of each member, and it definitely showed in Legally Blonde.” Affordable prices and talented locals make for a great evening’s entertainment. See Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr. this weekend: August 16 at 4 and 8 p.m. and August 17 at 4 p.m. Another sold-out performance is expected, so purchase tickets now. Upcoming events is the 501(c)3 group’s annual PCE Tea fundraiser on September 14 and the South Pacific production, slated for November 1416 and 20-22. For more information contact Marsha Passmore via e-mail to mappmore@msn.com, phone 813754-4929 or visit PCEshows.com.
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BUSCIGLIO SMILES AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS
TO TWO LOCAL STUDENT ATHLETES BY CHERYL JOHNSTON
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ach year for the last five, Busciglio David and Debbie Brightwell, Tiffany Smiles has presented academic also wanted to include “a huge thank you scholarships to two local student to my teachers; Mr. Kopel, Mr. Ward, Mr. athletes in recognition of their winning Brown, Mr. Burnett, Mrs. Friebolin, Mr. essays. Guarisco, Mrs. Gonzalez, Mrs. Santiago, Established in 1972 by Dr. John Mrs. Ewell, and Mrs. Smith.” Busciglio, the family-owned Orthodontic Diana, the daughter of Don and and pediatric dental practice is Renee Corzine, played soccer as a operated today by his children—Dr. midfielder and ran cross-country all four Derek Busciglio, D.M.D and Dr. years at PCHS. “I’m extremely honored Dana Busciglio, D.M.D. Together, to have been selected to receive this with an excellent team of hygienists scholarship,” she said. “I’ve been going to and technicians, the siblings continue Busciglio for years as a patient, so being to provide outstanding patient care one of the winners meant so much more and support for local efforts in the than getting a check. It was another way communities of Brandon, Plant City and the office has blessed me as I’ve grown Lithia (FishHawk). and I couldn’t be more grateful!” This year the scholarship essay’s Dr. Derek noted, “Diana and Tiffany topic was: Athletics versus Academics understand that while competitive - Can Student Athletes Really Have athletics contributed to their high school It All? The winners of the scholarship experience, their advanced education will essay this year were, Diana Corzine provide the enduring benefits.” Busciglio of Plant City High School, and Smiles takes pleasure in tangibly Tiffany Brightwell of Strawberry Crest rewarding future community leaders such International Baccalaureate High School. as Corzine and Brightwell. Dr. Dana They were each awarded $500 during added, “These young women have applied a May presentation at the company’s themselves to be good examples for our Brandon dental office. Both young ladies community’s youth, and we are proud to emphasized the dedication, effort, and recognize their efforts.” commitment required for success in The scholarship’s criteria for 2015 will athletic endeavors and in realizing their remain the same. Eastern Hillsborough academic dreams. County school-enrolled student athletes Corzine will attend Trevecca in any sport must have been accepted for Nazarene University in Nashville and college studies in the following school Brightwell, who is already attending term. The next competition will be summer classes at University of announced to the schools in the spring. South Florida, will pursue a degree in For a free consultation at Busciglio Biomedical Sciences and a Doctorate in Smiles, call 813-681-9473 or visit www. Dentistry, “hopefully from the University theorthodoc.com. of Florida.” One goal for her future practice is to “aid children who cannot always afford to have dental work done.” Brightwell’s athleticism revolves around the SCHS Chargerettes Dance Team for three years and in leadership as co-captain her The Busciglio Smiles dentists, Dr. Derek and Dr. senior year. Academically, Dana, recently awarded $500 scholarships to Tiffany in addition to thanking her Brightwell (L) of Strawberry Crest IB High School “biggest supporters,” parents and Diana Corzine of Plant City High School.
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On the corner of Evers and Drane is this A Little To The Right sculpture
THE PLANT CITY SCULPTURES EXHIBIT 2014 IS AN IMMEDIATE HIT! BY NED GOTT
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he ten new sculptures constituting the Plant City Sculptures Exhibit 2014 had hardly hit the ground in mid-July when people started lining up to greet them, to talk to them, and have their photos taken with the life-size solidbronze sculptures. The Man-On-TheStreet style sculptures capture everyday life in a warm and friendly way. This is public art that people can understand and can relate to. The sculptures created by internationally acclaimed artist J. Seward Johnson were acquired by the Plant City Photo Archives & History Center through a loan with The Sculpture Foundation in Santa Monica, California. Eight similar sculptures acquired for an exhibit in 2012 and displayed throughout the historic downtown were extremely popular and when the exhibit closed the day after Labor Day calls were heard for a return of the sculptures. The Photo Archives staff worked
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for two years to bring some of Johnson’s sculptures back to Plant City. The Sculpture Foundation sent word in June 2014 that some sculptures would be made available and a partnership of the Photo Archives, Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, the City of Plant City, the Arts Council of Plant City, and the Downtown Merchants and Business Association worked to bring them back. This time ten sculptures were contracted for and they arrived at 8:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 15. Additional sponsors include All A Bloom Florist, George & Cassandra Banning, Hopewell Memorial Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens, Bill & Gwen Thomas, Plant City Rotary Club, Art Lounge Gallery, Improvement League of Plant City, Polk Museum of Art, and Plant City Times & Observer. The sculptures, which can weigh up to 650 pounds each, were installed by volunteers and a crew from the City
Best Seller sculpture dozing in McCall Park just east of the gazebo
of Plant City using heavy equipment and some manual labor. They are on display at the historic train station, the train viewing platform, in both blocks of McCall Park, at the corner of Evers and Drane, in front of the Photo Archives building (106 S. Evers St.), in front of the Plant City Entertainment building (Thomas and Drane), and in front of the Bruton Memorial Library (302 W. McLendon St.). The exhibit this year will run from July 28, when an official unveiling ceremony was held at McCall Park, to November 1, 2014. In addition to the
opportunity to view the fascinating life-like sculptures, (“statues” as many have called them), there are plans for a photo contest, and a reception and detailed tour provided by the Photo Archives sometime in October. For further information visit the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum at 102 North Palmer Street or the Photo Archives at 106 South Evers Street, or call the office at 813.754.1578. The Photo Archives website is www.plantcityphotoarchives. org.
Bunnies Don’t Bite sculpture on display in McCall Park at Collins St.
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First Presbyterian Learning Center CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL PROGRAM AGES INFANTS-4
FALL REGISTRATION (2014-2015)
Infants through Pre-K Preschool 8:30am - 11:30am Pre-K Class 8:30am - Noon All-Day Care 7:00am - 6:00pm Registration going on now spaces limited!
Register Now!!
404 W. Reynolds St., Plant City, FL 33563
For registration information, please come by the office or call
813-752-6874
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All Staff Accredited
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Co-founders of the Florida Inspirational Writers Retreat, Debora Coty and Ruth Carmichael Ellinger, welcome writers to the 2014 day-long event on October 4th at the Cedarkirk Conference Center in Lithia.
FLORIDA INSPIRATION WRITERS RETREAT
SET FOR OCTOBER 4, 2014 BY CHERYL JOHNSTON
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ttention all writers and those interested in the craft: Register now for the Florida Inspirational Writers Retreat, scheduled for October 4 at CedarKirk Retreat & Conference Center in Lithia. This fifth annual event features cofounders and workshop directors Debora M. Coty and Ruth Carmichael Ellinger, along with keynote speaker and former Florida Senator, Ronda Storms. Other session leaders include journalist Barbara Routen, author Terry O’Grady, marketing specialist Tim Barrios of Impact Media Creations, and author/publisher Cheri Cowell of EA Books. Attendees can also schedule 10-minute appointments on site to discuss their projects with Cowell and Barrios. Registration before August 29 is only $95, a savings of $20 for sign-ups after that date and before the September 26 deadline. Members of Brandon Christian Writers are also entitled to a “Bring a Friend Discount,” for which each pays $75 instead of $115. The event actually begins the previous evening at 6:30 with a “Night Owl Critique Session” to be held in room
305 of the Family Life Building at St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church, 3315 Bryan Road in Brandon. Those wishing to have their submissions critiqued should bring 20 copies of maximum two-page manuscript, 500 words or less, double-spaced with oneinch margins. Each writer will receive valuable input from the panel of writing professionals. Coty is a humorist, columnist, speaker, writing instructor and award-winning author of over 130 internationally published articles and 14 inspirational books, including Grit for the Oyster, Mom Needs Chocolate and Too Blessed to Be Stressed, among others. She has also contributed short stories and devotionals to numerous anthologies. Her passion is sharing her offbeat blend of humor and hope, wit and near-wisdom with women of all ages. Of this year’s FIWR, she said, “I’m happy that after five years of striving to provide dynamic speakers, relevant topics, and cutting edge publishing information to meet the needs of local writers, the FIWR really seems to be resonating with people. I see a lot of excitement
already generated by those planning to re-attend and by newbies seeking further info because they’ve heard such good things about the retreat. Our goal is for everyone to take home something useful, inspirational, and motivational.” In 2000, Ellinger established the Brandon Christian Writers group as an American Christian Writers chapter, of which Coty is also a member. The group meets monthly on the fourth Thursday at St. Andrews and welcomes anyone interested in learning more about the writing/publishing/marketing process. Along with many published articles over the years, Ellinger also wrote the Wild Rose historical fiction trilogy and Women of the Secret Place. The Saturday event (8:30AM - 5:00PM) also includes lunch. To register, download the form at http:// brandonchristianwriters.wordpress.com and mail with check (payable to Sandi de Laski/FIWR at 1018 Hollyberry Court, Brandon, FL 33511. For further information, e-mail her at delaski.sandi@ gmail.com. FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AUGUST 2014
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L Audience participation at this year’s event was wonderful…plenty of laughter, cheering for favorites, and even some Facetime waves to Oscar Herrera’s mom (Family Pharmacy) who was ill at home. The 1914 Plant City Community Center was perfectly suited to take everyone’s mind back to their school days. A special treat this year was the event’s first high school competitor, petite teen Vickie Nguyen as representative for the PCHS Key Club. The Kiwanis Club invites applications for membership from community-minded locals. Contact David Wolf at 813-717-9300 or wolf. david.w@gmail.com for additional information. And when you’re out and about around town, please be sure to support those companies whose representatives were brave enough to test their spelling acumen. In alphabetical order by business, contestants included:
Gil Gott, the 2014 Kiwanis Spelling Bee Champion, shown here with the 2nd place winner, PC Chamber of Commerce Representative Felix Haynes, and Rosemary Myers of SFBH, who place third.
AREA BUSINESSES SUPPORT KIWANIS SPELLING BEE BY CHERYL JOHNSTON
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ixteen area business representatives set aside their stage fright recently to be good sports for a great cause in the 2nd annual Kiwanis Spelling Bee. The friendly competition to become Plant City’s champion speller garnered sponsorships and donations for the organization’s annual “Stuff the Bus” campaign, which offers free school supplies to approximately 700 local children in need. Gil Gott, Executive Director of Plant City Photo Archives and History Center, won the 2014 title in a back-and-forth battle with Felix Haynes, who represented the Plant City Chamber of Commerce.
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The appreciative 2014 champion explained, “We have to remember this event helps raise money for Stuff the Bus in support of our students - and it’s all done in a fun-filled environment. The camaraderie was great and we all enjoyed the evening. I thank all the sponsors, the spectators, and the wonderful participants.” When the Lieutenant Governor for Kiwanis District 14, Sharon Moody, announced that more than $5,000 has been raised for this year’s project, all involved felt like winners. “It’s remarkable what business peers can accomplish together,” said Sharon Moody, who serves as Lieutenant Governor for the six
county Kiwanis District 14. She added, “and especially when it involves improving the lives of children.” David Wolf, owner of Haught Funeral Home, emceed and announced the challenging vocabulary. A few of those misspelled included words such as baccalaureate, intractable, obstinate, soliloquy and ukulele. At the start of the contest, Linton Jackson, again representing Americare Ambulance, received a jeweled velvet crown for his 2013 win, but then had to pass it on when Gott eventually outlasted Haynes. Rosemary Myers of South Florida Baptist Hospital earned the third place trophy.
• All A Bloom Florists - Caitlyn Chandler • Americare Ambulance Service Linton Jackson • Berry Publications (In the Field) Bob Hughens • Chamber of Commerce - Felix Haynes • Family Care Pharmacy - Oscar Herrera • Focus Magazine - Cheryl Johnston • Haught Funeral Home - Katherine Wolf • Hopewell Funeral Home Edwena Haney • Kaleidoscope Educational Services - Mary Davis • Master Craft Memorials - Dawn Cline • PCHS Key Club - Vickie Nguyen • Plant City Photo Archives - Gil Gott • South Florida Baptist Hospital Rosemary Myers • Strong Tower Insurance - Kayla Clenney • Suncoast Credit Union - Derek Yates • The Plant City Times and Observer - Michael Eng
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Back (L to R) Lyndsay Gazsa & Mario Alvarez Front (L to R) Ethan Garza & Adrian Alvarez
KINGDOM OF THE ROSE BY WENDY BROWN
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ould you like to help White Queen Ivory or Black Queen Onyz in chess land? You too can learn a castling move in this “delightful book that captures the imagination of young people who want to learn chess,” states Alez Zelmer, USCF Life Master. Cindy Rose, local math, science, and gifted teacher, has written her first book titled “A Queen and her Court.” Cindy has two children and has lived in Plant City for twenty-five years. She grew up in Lebanon, Ohio and lived on a 600-700 head dairy farm which was managed by her father. As a youngster, Cindy found chess difficult to learn by just memorizing chess movements. As a professional educator, she values the knowledge that students learn by seeing, hearing, writing, speaking, and doing, The love of her life is Rob Savageau, a digital computer administrator who has a passion for art and computers. He digitally illustrated the very, visually appealing layout for “A Queen and Her Court” and was able to give each chess piece a personality and lively characteristics so kids could relate and enjoy the game. Valuing the benefits of chess, Cindy organized chess clubs at school. Her last club had 50 students with 57 on the waiting list. Knowing pupils learn easier with stories, Rose created a fantasy story line with kings and queens and
their white and black court members in a picturesque yet enchanting forest who are all trying to solve the puzzle spell. Did you know there are clues how each chess piece moves marked on each individual piece? Student Adrian Alvarez declares “you have to think really hard plus chess strengthens your mind.” Cindy would love to see chess played at all schools as clubs or even before or after school programs especially since the United States is ranked 25th in the world for Math scores. There are many benefits to chess besides logic. Playing chess exercises both sides of the brain, increases problem solving skills, improves algebraic thinking, reading skills, and concentration, while benefitting improved memory and planning skills. Anyone can play chess. This game focusses on successful outcomes. You too can navigate Cindy’s” Sixty-four Square Woods.” Young Ethan Garza even liked “finding the rose on each page.” Come meet author Cindy Rose and Rob Savageau in September at the Plant City Bruton Memorial Library for their book signing, and learn to play the game of kings. Purchase “A Queen in her Court,” go to Amazon.com. Order chess related tee-shirts at www.wit-tshirt. Tee-shirts are $15 or 2 for $26, the book is $14.95. Contact Cindy Rose at 752-0771.
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PETE BATTAGLIA PREPARES FOR RETIREMENT AS PCFBC MINISTER OF WORSHIP BY CHERYL JOHNSTON
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lant City’s First Baptist Church family and our community in general will offer their congratulations next month to Pete Battaglia, when he retires after 25 years as Minister of Worship. Thankfully, the Battaglias won’t be moving away anytime soon. “For now Renee and I plan to remain right here,” he said, “but we will always be open to whatever God wants to do with us in the future.” Soon the talented leader will be
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“spending a great deal of time with family and especially the grandkids, as well as expanding my piano service business, singing and leading worship in other churches, and trying to enjoy some of my hobbies a bit more.” Those hobbies include recording and creating music and hunting and fishing, especially with his son John. He is also a Piano Technician/Tuner and has tuned numerous times for Disney along with other churches and Central Florida institutions over the
last 18 years. The vocalist also plays six instruments: guitar, piano, electric bass, string bass, cello, and banjo. Music has been his life’s work. Since serving in his first leadership position at 16, Pete and his wife have served eight churches in four different states over a total of 42 years, with his longest tenure in Plant City as Minister of Worship since 1989. He considers himself blessed “to have served with three wonderful pastors here...Dr. Ron Churchill (20
years) Dr. Michael Lewis (4 years) and currently Dr. Brian Stowe (1 year).” He continued, “What I have enjoyed most is getting to know so many wonderful people, seeing them grow in their faith and love so they reach out to bless our community through various ministries.” His outreach favorites have been the warmly received annual PCFBC Christmas productions with 3,000to-4,000 attendees and the charming Lights of Love Tree Lighting in the historic downtown. He related as well that “Over the years it has been my pleasure and honor to sing with various groups at the Florida Strawberry Festival and for many service clubs and special events like National Day of Prayer.” Travel opportunities have been a sweet bonus, too. Battaglia treasures the Israel trip he led a few years ago when the local group of 60 joined five other churches in singing the world premier of “The Gift of Christmas” musical at the invitation of the Mayor of Bethlehem for the Bethlehem Christmas Festival. “We performed at Nativity
L Church, the birthplace of Jesus,” he said. “We also performed this music as our Plant City production, and I wrote the drama portion published by Lifeway Music, Nashville.” Additionally, he has served as an assistant director for The Florida Worship Choir and as bassist for this group of some 450 who minister across Florida. He was the group’s president when they performed in Australia’s Sydney Opera Hall. This summer the FWC assisted 16 New York City churches in their ministry efforts and presented worship concerts in NYC at Central Park, Carnegie Hall, and Brooklyn Tabernacle. They even staged a flash mob in Times Square. In humility, Battaglia encourages any desiring to share their faith through music to “recognize that all gifts and talents come from God and are best used to serve Christ and others.” Seek His direction and leading in your life,” he continued, “and you will be amazed at all He will do, the places He will lead, and how He will use what He has blessed you with to bless others! Where God guides...He always provides!” The New Jersey native and youngest of four born to a dental surgeon dad and a schoolteacher and nurse mom invited Christ into his life at age 15 after the family had moved to Panama City. He credits the influence of close friends, a church much like FBC Plant City, and its beach ministry. The singer/songwriter involved himself right away by composing Bible story musicals for the beach ministry he directed three years. “While attending junior college on a music scholarship I sensed God’s calling to surrender to serving in Music Ministry and committed my life to using those gifts as tools to tell others about Christ and leading the local church in worship.” He and Renee Dorman met in classes and church they attended together. “As we dated, I learned she sensed a similar call to local church
ministry and to dedicating her gifts to becoming a teacher,” he recalled. “We committed ourselves to completing college and tooling ourselves to become the best we could be in our fields.” Both received undergraduate degrees at Mississippi College in Jackson. Pete then earned his Masters Degree in Church Music in Vocal Performance, with a minor in Religious Education at New Orleans Seminary. Renee has used her teaching gift for 25 years, primarily with first graders at Walden Lake Elementary. She has served PCFBC faithfully also through Worship Choir, Children’s Choir, and as a Preschool Nursery Teacher in Sunday School. The Battaglias feel blessed by God for two “wonderful children and two grandchildren.” Dr. Anna Marie Hall and her husband Andy live in Orlando with soon-to-be two year-old Emile, while John and his wife Brittni Arsenault live here with five-monthold Braxton. Anna, a Clinical Assistant Professor for the University of Florida, works as Assistant Director of the MTM Communication and Care Center in Orlando. John, a University of Florida business school graduate, owns two companies: Innovative Granite and JTB Services, a general services company. Battaglia remains grateful to be planted here. “Both the Plant City community and especially our First Baptist Church family have been incredible blessings to us. Raising our kids here... all the wonderful people, schools, and activities that have invested in their lives have been more than I could have ever hoped for. This uniquely familyoriented town has a rich history and great community spirit. So many small towns are places you have to leave in order to go see the world. If you live in Plant City, it seems like the world comes to see us!”
Pete,Renee,and Emi
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L competing technician and one guest. Robert states that “each year we are treated like kings.” Once the “hands on” competition begins the technicians are measured on technical training qualification, outstanding customer service performance, and quality workmanship. The final competition consists of ten rigorous “hands on” tests including vehicle electronics, preventative maintenance, and air conditioning. The winner of Top Tech receives a new car and a cash prize. Robert states that “it’s not winning a new car that keeps him competing, but rather it is the recognition that comes
LOCAL PLANT CITY MAN COMPETES IN RYDER “TOP TECH” COMPETITION BY HEATHER DAVIS
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hat does it take to be the top performing Ryder technician in the United States and even Canada? Ask Ryder technician Robert Gonzalez and he would answer that “it takes years of hard work, dedication, determination, and passion for being the best.” It also requires a high level of self motivation to rise to the level of technician that Robert has become. For four consecutive years Robert has competed in the Ryder “Top Tech” Competition. To compete in the Top Tech competition you first have to go through three levels of intense written and “hands on” testing until only seven top Ryder techs are left for the final competition. Throughout the U.S. and Canada there are over 4,800 Ryder technicians and to even be considered among the top seven is an amazing accomplishment. Last year Robert placed 2nd among the seven and even though this year he did not take first place he will continue to work toward
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his goal of taking the first place prize for the title of “Top Tech”. Robert has been a technician for Ryder for over twenty five years. He began working as a mechanic in 1975 following in the footsteps of his father. Robert also studied Engineering for three years at USF, but found that while raising a family he was able to make more money as a mechanic. In addition to competing for the past four years in the Ryder competition Robert has also competed in the Florida Super Tech for which he placed 1st and 2nd place as well as in the National Super Tech where he has placed as high as fifth place nationally. Ryder’s Top Tech program is designed to identify, recognize, and reward Ryder’s top performing maintenance technicians. Each year before the competition Robert begins to prepare in advance. This year the competition took place in Irving, Texas. The Ryder Company pays for the travel expenses for both the
from being a “Top Tech”. Robert feels that every year he competes he has been able to improve his skill level. “Each competition is a learning experience and it has made me a better technician by learning what to improve upon and in the last four years I have excelled at diagnostics,” Robert stated. Clearly Plant City and Ryder can be equally proud to have such an outstanding technician as Robert Gonzalez who has the drive and determination to be the best he can possibly be.
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WINNIE T. DURANT RE-INTRODUCES THE EVERGREEN DRAMATIC CLUB BY CHERYL JOHNSTON
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innie T. Durant is reintroducing her Evergreen Dramatic Club so students can practice and showcase their talents. In years past, the club performed at various churches and sponsored the Mr. & Ms. Black Essence Pageants. Durant has always enjoyed “giving young people a chance to express what they would like to be in life.” Held at the Kainos International Church of Plant City, the club’s focus is K.O.K.A, -- “Keeping Our Kids Alive.” Durant explained, “My desire is to give children insights into the power of positive thinking.” Students will enjoy refreshments, games, homework help, and opportunities to perform/sing at weekly club
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gatherings. Plans for an Amtrak trip to Jacksonville are also in process. “I’ve come to realize the more they can be together, love each other and learn about the Christian life,” she added, “the less chance they’ll become sidetracked down the wrong path. Children just need someone to lead and this is my act of love and service, to inspire and motivate them to be productive.” Following her Plant City High School graduation in 1973, the Plant City native attended Florida A & M University and Fayetteville State University, where favorite classes were drama and Spanish. At FAMU, she served on the Army ROTC drill team. Three years after being involved in a
head-on collision at age 21, Durant enlisted in the Army, where she was both a truck driver and a weapons expert during the Grenada invasion. The very-involved mother of four/grandmother to five inherited this passion for children from her especially creative mother, Katie Thomas, a seamstress and wedding dress specialist who founded the 100-member United Club. That community service organization actually placed the first TV set at South Florida Baptist Hospital. “Like my mother, I pray every morning to thank God for life,” offered the mentor whose favorite Scripture is Psalm 86:12. “I like being involved and
productive when someone has a need,” she offered. “I enjoy using my talents to help, especially in programs when someone includes God in their plans to serve others.” Durant’s talents are many. Her writing career began with first grade stories and continued with articles in the Courier, Florida Sentinel, and Polk County Banner. The PCHS senior drama class teacher encouraged her to pursue a writing/performance career after witnessing Durant’s performance of an original skit. Her character, 85-year-old gossip-mongering, faultfinding, church-going “Ms. Gertrude” stole the show. With her shaky hands and claims that her very-much-alive husband was dead, Ms. Gertrude justified her ongoing online search for a new one. Durant invites the public to meet ‘Ms. Gertrude’ in another repeat performance of “I Don’t Gossip; I Just Talk a Lot” on Sunday, September 7 at 6PM at St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church (Pastor Larry Sykes) at 108 S. Warnell Street in Plant City. Additionally, the community helper writes books, gospel songs, and regularly produces poetic expressions at weddings, funeral, and other milestones. Her first book, Why God Chose Me, is under contract for publication, as are several pieces of music. “The main thing I love about Plant City,” Durant said, “is the friendliness and roots of faith. Everybody knows me and I hear, ‘Hey cousin, hey auntie.’ I tell people: ‘Be happy, take care of your children, look for one meal at a time, and tend to your own business.’ If everyone will do that, our community will thrive and we’ll keep our kids alive.” Registration for children of all ethnic backgrounds from ages 5-19 is free, but closes in two weeks, so act quickly. Simply contact Durant at 813-763-4540 or via e-mail to poetryandsongs@yahoo.com Durant also invites parent volunteers to inquire about assisting, because with more help, more children can be included in the program.
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Mission team from FBCPC with their host at the Gallery Church. Left to Right: Jack Smith, Daralene Pondo, John Zavodny, Jay Ballard, Angie Zavodny, Jessica McMichen, Pete Bataglia, Linda McDonald, Kathy Horne, Betty Hall, and Lynne Despain.
FLORIDA BAPTIST WORSHIP CHOIR ENJOYS MISSION WORK IN NYC
BY CHERYL JOHNSTON PHOTOS COURTESY OF FLORIDA BAPTIST CONVENTION
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ine choir and orchestra members from Plant City’s First Baptist Church experienced an exhilarating faith-filled trip to the world’s fifth largest city this summer. Plans began about two years ago when Pete Battaglia, PCFBC Minister of Worship, had a discussion with Terry Williams, the Director of Music and Worship Ministries for the Florida Baptist Convention since 2002. Williams described his dream of taking the Florida Worship Choir and Orchestra to New York City to minister. The choir’s total membership of 600 includes worship pastors, senior pastors, choir/orchestra and praise team/praise band members from more than 300 Florida Baptist churches. This team has recorded and produced three choir/orchestra worship collections published by Prism Music and arranged by Mark Bovee: God of
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the Ages, Great I AM, and Almighty God. In late May-early June, Battaglia and a PCFBC group of eight others, traveled to the Big Apple along with Bovee and area musicians from First Baptists of Dover, Brandon, Leesburg, Ocala and Tampa’s Idlewild Church. In the treasured venues of Central Park’s Naumburg Bandshell, Brooklyn Tabernacle and Carnegie Hall, 264-voices and 45 instrumentalists of the FWC performed, and also staged an afternoon flash mob in Times Square near the spot where the countdown ball drops on New Year’s Eve. Needless to say, it was a busy trip, but definitely time well spent. To coordinate the travel details and mission work schedule, Battaglia had worked closely also with Phil Barfoot, CEO and President of CCT Music & Celebration Concert Tours International. Battaglia and
Jay Ballard, Director of Technical Ministries for PCFBC, arrived in New York a day early to do preliminary promotional work. In addition to those gentlemen, the PCFBC mission team included Lynne Despain, Betty Hall, Kathy Horner, Linda McDonald, Jessica McMichen, Daralene Pondo, Angie Zavodny and John Zavodny. When the Florida musicians arrived in NYC on Friday, May 30, they headed for Central Park’s Naumburg Bandshell where the choir/orchestra performed an evening concert for locals and for tourists from around the world. On Sunday, team members split into groups to visit 16 North America Mission Board “SEND” church plants throughout the city and in New Jersey. They helped lead worship, offered assistance and provided musical instruments and sound equipment needed by each congregation. NAMB church planter Patrick Thompson and his family, from Georgia, were grateful for the Floridians’ assistance to their newest work, New City Church in Long Island. Led by worship pastor David Shenning of First Baptist Brandon, a 30-plus member team from the Florida mass choir prayerwalked the area surrounding the church and
presented a concert on the oval at Hunters Point Park. As the residents enjoyed the music, Thompson and New City members distributed cards inviting their neighbors to church. The Florida team also donated to New City Church acoustic and electric guitars, a bass, a portable sound system, music stands and keyboard, which were provided mostly by Plant City’s First Baptist Church. As the choir’s voices sang “Open Up the Heavens” in Times Square on Sunday, June 1, an estimated 50,000 people heard the music and engaged with the Floridians in spiritual conversations. Many accepted tickets to the next evening’s performance at Carnegie Hall, which was attended by approximately 2,500. Ballard believes the FBWC group may have been the first ever to perform during the weekly Tuesday night prayer gathering at the Brooklyn Tabernacle, which is typically attended by 4,000 to 5,000 people. There they performed 14 songs from the choir’s CD “Almighty God.” Member after member related special spiritual moments during the trip when the sensed God’s presence in a powerful way. As a result, they returned to their Florida home churches with a desire to do even more for Him in the future.
The Florida Baptist Worship Choir and Orchestra performed for the thousands attending a Tuesday evening prayer service at the Brooklyn Tabernacle in New York
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DIVORCECARE
healing: • The Road to Healing/Finding Helpful Strategies • Facing Anger, Depression and Loneliness • Explore Biblical Answers Regarding Separation, Divorce and Remarriage • New Relationships • Financial Survival • Kid Care and Single Parenting • Single Sexuality (from God’s perspective) • Forgiveness is a Must • Pursue Reconciliation, Even Without Restoration
• Moving Forward and Growing Closer to God Wade encourages newcomers. “DivorceCare is a community outreach program for anyone who is struggling with recovery. Don’t go through separation or divorce alone. You’ll meet people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. We’re here to care and help.” To register, search “Find a Group” at divorcecare.org. For additional information, call 813-752-4591 or e-mail wadesparling@gmail.com.
AN ONGOING CLASS OFFERS HOPE AND HEALING BY CHERYL JOHNSTON
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adly, approximately 50 percent of marriages end in divorce and obviously, its impact can be devastating for all involved. For folks who find themselves in this situation or in separation, DivorceCare provides help and healing for the hurt and hope for the heart. The ongoing 13-week program is now offered year around at Plant City Church of God at 2103 Mud Lake Road. The class meets each Sunday in room 17 at 4:30 p.m. All are welcome to register online at divorcecare.org or simply attend and sign up any Sunday afternoon. Wade and Christen Sparling facilitate the ministry that is close to their hearts. From prior personal experience, they both know the pain and lifestyle adjustments that come with broken homes. “The friendly, caring group is a safe place to be when experiencing separation or divorce,” explained Christen. “Whether you’re going through it now or did years ago, it is so important to learn how to help your children adjust, to right your finances, to overcome the typical emotions of depression, loneliness and anger, and to find healthy patterns for developing
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future relationships. You will discover truths that will put you onto a healthy path emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. All these can help you rebuild your life and future, for yourself and your family.” DivorceCare groups meet weekly to face and overcome these challenges. Each session has two distinct elements: A Seminar with Experts - During the first 30–40 minutes, members watch an interesting video seminar on divorce and recovery topics that feature expert interviews, real-life case studies and on-location film clips. A Support Group with Focus After each viewing, participants spend time as a support group, discussing information presented in that week’s video and the difficulties and triumphs they are experiencing in their own lives. A majority of people will agree that separation and divorce are the most painful, stressful and confusing experiences they’ve ever faced. Often spouses feel isolated and have lots of questions about issues they’ve never faced before. Engaging with the following DivorceCare topics can expedite the
Wade and Christen Sparling have a passion to help others avoid or recover from divorce through the 13-week DivorceCare outreach to the community.
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The mission team in Uherske Hradiste square with their Focus Magazine.
DOBRY DEN! “HELLO”
a fairy tale story,” exclaimed Anne Phillips. Local Czechs desperately wanted to practice conversational English according to Dr. Steve Morris. ”English Summer Camp by Americans” was taught from 12-9 p.m. utilizing Adventures in English and Plant City restaurant menus. Using translators, two classes of teens and adults were intensely immersed and wondered why Americans paid their own way to see and teach them. “A beautiful bond happened when we shared stories of our individual families,” proclaimed Martha Sue Skinner. Students and teachers became very close while sharing and learning about each other’s lives. Not allowed to profess Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, the team casually
placed Czech/English Bibles on a tables and all were taken. The 1st Sunday at the only Baptist Church, 19 were in attendance, but the last Sunday 70 listened while three from Plant City shared their accounts. Later at a Czech BBQ with long sausages, and lots of sweets, even with language difficulties their human spirit and the team’s Christian spirit showed: “It was love that transcended our differences, love helped us communicate,” Martha Sue Skinner delighted, “Young people’s eyes were opened to what worship can be.” Students showered their new American friends with homemade gifts of fancily decorated gingerbread cookies, soaps, and now treasured notes. Na shledanou, “Goodbye”
FROM CZECH REPUBLIC!
BY WENDY BROWN | PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY KEN SKINNER
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ummer, family vacations and traveling to exotic places are something we all look forward to. Eight members from First Baptist Church: Sandy Cook, Mamie Robinson, Ashylyn Robinson, Martha Sue Skinner, Ken Skinner, Rich Phillips, Anne Phillips, and Pastor Steve Morris left July 18th for the Czech Republic, whose people and quaint land captured their hearts. In October of 1918, Czechoslovakia declared its independence from the Austro Hungarian Empire then on January 1st, 1993 split into Czech Republic and Slovakia. This central European country is bordered by Germany, Slovakia, and Poland. Sandy Cook revealed, “After an easy flight to Prague and 28 hours of travel, our missionary Mike Young met us with a 9 person van and drove us to overnight in Berno. The next morning, we drove past country-sides of rolling hills, cows, corn, and wheat to The
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Grand Hotel in Uherske Hradiste.” This base was neatly situated near town squares, shops, and restaurants, so they walked everywhere meeting the humble, gentle, and progressive nationals who are just like us in many ways. In town there were pizza places, Subway, and KFC. Breakfast was bread, fruit, foot-long wieners, hard poached-like eggs, and raw like bacon, but alas no American type coffee only expresso or cappuccino. Lunch and dinner were heavy with potatoes or pasta, bread, and meat, but rarely vegetables. Food was quite good, but they finally got salad at McDonalds. Mornings being free, they traveled to Medieval Buchlov and Krivoklat Castle, marvelous quaint villages with century old buildings, peacocks strolling ornamental gardens, Slovakia, Chateaux Horovice, and even a bizarre 11th century monastery built with human bones from plagues. “Standing in Prague Square was like being in
Martha Sue and girls from English class enjoying art in the square.
Dr. Brenda Dukes Chiropractic Physician
CHIROPRACTIC CARE AND PROSTATE CANCER
As the beginning of the school year approaches, you can hear the sound of playing and laughing children whether they are at home or in school. This is a wonderful sound when you know your child is healthy!
learning environment. The chiropractic adjustments are also beneficial for extra-curricular activities such as sports. The body has a lot of impact in sports that can cause trauma, sprains and strains.
Chiropractic adjustments are tailored to the child’s individual needs. The adjustments help keep the central nervous system balanced which in turn keeps the children healthy. When the central nervous system is working properly, children have a better opportunity to stay healthier because their immune system is being given an increased opportunity to not be compromised.
Take the first step in providing a healthy start to the new school year!
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Special Note: Join with us in PRAYING for the upcoming SCHOOL YEAR. ~ CHIROPRACTIC WORKS - GIVE IT A TRY ~ 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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Savannah Lowe and Jared Brannen, along with their appreciative pets-Kandi Kane and Kitty-will soon welcome their new son, baby Gage
KANDI KANE’S INDEPENDENCE WEEK MIRACLE BY CHERYL JOHNSTON
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andi Kane celebrated her freedom this year by watching Fourth of July fireworks, snuggled up between her owner, Savannah Lowe and her fiancé, Jared Brannen. “She was a little nervous about the noise,” said Lowe, “as if she’d been badly frightened by lightening and thunder. But she finally relaxed as long as we were right there.” The fear was probably justified, but this is the sweet story of an Independence Week miracle. Only two days prior, after eight years of separation from Lowe, the Siberian Husky had been found
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in the woods near Greensboro, North Carolina and taken to the local SPCA. When the staff there discovered the chip identifier that had been implanted in Kandi Kane as a pup, they placed a call to Savannah, advising that she had only three days to retrieve her beloved pet. Here’s the backstory: At age 15, Lowe became the owner of the pup she had named and cared for until Kandi Kane was five years old. After someone stole Kandi Kane, Lowe searched through every possible method, but eventually she gave up and stopped looking. Fast forward eight years to the
unbelievably special phone call on July 2, 2014. Both Savannah and Jared left Plant City that evening and drove straight through to Greensboro and back, arriving back home at night on July 3 with Kandi Kane. “When she saw us at the SPCA, she started crying in the cage. It seemed like she recognized me,” said Lowe. “When we headed back to the office to sign papers and pay the $130 fee for the required rabies and heartworm shots, Kandi Kane howled, as if she didn’t want us to leave her.” “She was a little distant during the ride home,” added Brannen, “but
she’s adjusted now and knows she’s in a safe place.” Physically, Kandi Kane’s coat was matted and her ears suffered from flystrike with hair loss and exposed skin. But in a very short time, she’s looking much better. “Her hair is growing back,” explained Lowe, “and she’s getting used to her new pal Kitty, our threeyear-old American bulldog.” Lowe and Brannen are both dog lovers, so at the earliest opportunity they took Kandi Kane for a veterinary check-up at Turkey Creek Animal Hospital. “We are huge Florida Gator fans,” said Brannen, “and so are they!” “These dogs are Savannah’s babies,” he added. “When our baby boy Gage is born, we’ll have a full house.” And obviously, with proud parents and two puppies, Gage will be surrounded with love.
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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AUGUST 2014
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n his “Preface; An Enchantment Called Time” that John Keasler, a nationally acclaimed journalist and a native of Plant City, wrote for the Bruton and Bailey book on the history of Plant City, he said this: “We are of a place created by a breed of seekers, of explorers, of risktakers. They were the non-timid, those Plant Citians who came here before Plant City and created the spiritual and physical atmosphere to birth Plant City: they were true pioneers. With a wagon, a family, and hope they knew how to lean into adversity, fight back, plow, save, pray, get by on next to nothing, work, fail, work harder … and in the long run make a crop, and not only survive but prevail.” In the following chapters of the book the authors detail the years of the evolutionary development of the great Plant City area, and especially its base – agriculture. Today, agriculture is still the mainstay of the east Hillsborough area economy. The pioneers were farmers and they were the builders of the community. They built the banks and the schools and the roads, and promoted the markets and local and regional trade. They have a fascinating story. The Plant City Photo Archives & History Center, at the prompting of historian Al Berry, is launching a project to produce a book about agriculture and the greater Plant City community. It will be a brief outline of the history of Plant City agriculture and include as many descriptive photographs as we can fit in.
508.1. Okra-Brown Hollis for Swift 1948
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We need your help. We have some photographs and stories. But we don’t have them all. We need your photos and your stories, the stories of your families and your farms and your farm businesses. Plant City is the story of immigrants, of Southern whites and blacks who moved into the area before the Civil War and after, when the times were tough on the farms and moving on was sometimes the only option. They came from Alabama, Georgia, and the Carolinas, and farther distant. Some came by boat but most by foot, or by carts or wagons, and later by rail. We have photos of the lumber business, and naval stores, of the Warnell Lumber and Veneering Company, of okra and peppers, and cattle. We have stories of Charlie Taylor, and James Evers, of Joe McIntosh and Lew Prosser, of citrus and strawberries. There’s the Howells and Bealsville, the Future Farmers of America and the New Farmers of America, and the Farmers’ Market, and Southland Frozen Foods, and Roy Parke, and Kilgore Seed, Wishnatzki, Futch, Griffin, and many, many more. Tell us your story. Bring in or send us your photographs. We need to put this together to tell the story of agriculture and the greater Plant City area. Contact the Plant City Photo Archives & History Center, History of Plant City Agriculture Project, 106 South Evers Street, Plant City, FL 33563-5412. Call us at 813-754-1578. Email us at info@ plantcityphotoarchives.org.
4357. strawberry packing shed (1920)
13901.1 Ed Varn at 16 on ranch 1939
19068. Farmer’s Alliance Exchange_ poss. about 1902
1680. Southland Frozen Foods (1956)
4794.1. Parkesdale Farms-packing berries (1962)
5405.2. Marshall High School, (05-25-61)
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PLANT CITY RIBBON CUTTINGS
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The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for Paula Meckley for Hillsborough County School Board, District 6, on August 7, 2014 at the Plant City Chamber. Paula believes the atmosphere of hard work and a sense of community she experienced while growing up and working on her parent’s farm is what shaped her as a person & formed her community involvement efforts. Paula would like to take her 18 years of experience working on behalf of our children in public schools to the next level by serving as your representative on the School Board. Paula promises to bring a work ethic that will include high expectations and personal accountability.
The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for Robert Bauman for Circuit Court Judge, Group 34, on July 29, 2014, at the Plant City Chamber. Mr. Bauman has over 28 years civil and criminal litigation and trial experience, and he is a long-time resident of Tampa, and a USF alumni. Robert has a strong commitment to the community, as he is the Head Coach for Varsity Soccer at Jesuit High School.
On Tuesday, August 5, 2014, the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce celebrated the completion of the exterior building renovations. The building, originally McCrory’s Department Store, was remodeled in 1993 to house the Chamber. Current renovations include repainting the building, new awnings, lighting, and new signage. Nate Kilton, Chairman of the Board, and ViceMayor Bill Dodson were joined by the Chamber Board of Directors, Chamber Staff, and fellow chamber members to usher in the new look.
The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for Janet Dougherty for County Commission, District 4, on July 24, 2014 at the Plant City Chamber. Janet has lived in Eastern Hillsborough County for over 20 years, and is involved in her community and also has served on community planning boards. Janet is a member of the Farm Bureau, Propeller Club, and Transportation Task Force. She has also been appointed to three public service boards by Governor Jeb Bush. A local business owner for 10 years, Janet has earned a B.A. in Public Administration.
The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for Laura Ward for Circuit Court Judge, Group 20, on July 29, 2014 at the Plant City Chamber. Laura is a member of the Complex Commercial Litigation practice at the law firm DLP Piper. Laura also serves as Director, pro-bono, of the Veteran’s Legal Services Clinic, providing free legal services to local veterans. She has recently received a statewide award at the Florida Supreme Court in recognition of her pro bono work. Laura is on the Board of Directors of the Hillsborough County Bar Association and is a past President of the Hillsborough County Young Lawyers Division.
The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting on July 22, 2014 for Karen Stanley for Circuit Court Judge, Group 20, at the Plant City Chamber. Karen was a Prosecutor for 24 years during which time she handled some of the most heinous crimes in this county including First Degree Murder/Death Penalty and Sexual Battery cases. Karen is very proud to have several endorsements, some of those include, Sheriff David Gee, and State Attorney Mark Ober.
The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for Constance Daniels for Circuit Court Judge, Group 34, on July 31, 2014 at the Plant City Chamber. Constance Daniels is a third generation native Floridian, she is a graduate of University of Florida, Fredric G. Levin College of Law, and owns her own law office in Brandon, FL. She has over 17 years of experience in Family Law, Criminal, Personal Injury, and Juvenile Dependency (aka Child Abuse Cases). Constance believes a judge must maintain the trust and confidence of the community, and connect with the community by promoting education, great work ethic, accountability, and civic duties.
The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting on July 15, 2014 for American Veterans Post 44, located at 5521 State Road 60 East, Plant City. The American Veterans organization was established in 1947 to enhance and safeguard the entitlements for all American veterans who served their country honorably. Through community events and relations, this organization supports the local VA hospital and all local veterans who are in need. For more information call: (813) 756-6944.
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THANK YOU TO OUR FOLLOWING TABLE SPONSORS* FULL TABLE:
STRENGTHENING OUR COMMUNITY 2014 Plant City Family YMCA Strong Leader Award Dinner Honoring George Banning Date: Tuesday, August 26th Location: The John R. Trinkle Center Time: 6:30pm Cocktails, 7pm Dinner, 8pm Program Cost: $75/individual or $1,000 table sponsor of 8
All A Bloom Charles & Jennifer Closshey Florida Strawberry Festival Haught Funeral Home Hillsborough Community College Jarrett-Scott Ford Johnson-Adams & Associates, LLC Plant City Daybreak Rotary Plant City Noon Rotary South Florida Baptist Hospital Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA The Sembler Company Wendy’s *As of August 7, 2014.
Sponsorship Opportunities Available, for more information contact Leigh Scott at 813.757.6677 or leigh.scott@tampaymca.org.
PLANT CITY FAMILY YMCA | 1507 YMCA Place | Plant City, FL 33563 | 813.757.6677 | www.tampaymca.org
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Joe “Thunder� Diaz 3rd Grade Lincoln Magnet School for International Studies
BY DEANNA GARRISON
Hitting the malls, trying on new clothes, gathering school supplies and finding all the right deals are all a part of this time of year. The summer fun is coming to a close and it is time once again to focus on getting back to school.
Principals DINA V. WYATT
WALDEN LAKE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
ALAN BLACK
TRAPNELL ELEMENTARY
SUSAN SULLIVAN
TOMLIN MIDDLE SCHOOL
DAPHNE BLANTON
MARSHALL MIDDLE SCHOOL
PAMELA BOWDEN DURANT HIGH
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Students Once they finish their new fresh look and gather all their new supplies, it’s time to focus on the task at hand…Academics. Many deterrents get in the way of achieving that high grade point average that they deem to reach; however, if they stay focused to their studies they will do just fine.
Whether your child is in their early school years or later, they still face many challenges that arise daily in school. Study habits, getting assignments turned in on time, staying focused, and bullying are a few school challenges they may face. Study Habits- If you help your child work out a daily schedule after school to get his study time in every day, it starts to become a habit. By the time he/she gets to middle school or high school, they have developed this habit and it comes natural. As they grow older, they tend to have other extracurricular activities that may tend to come in the way of that study time. That is when adjustments to their study time needs to be made and dedication plays a huge role. Getting assignments turned in on time- When students reach middle school, they get to the point where they have to keep up with many different teachers and their “due dates” and many different projects and assignments. Helping your child keep a calendar or tracker will help these due dates to not sneak up on them. It may even help to clip it to the refrigerator for an extra reminder. Staying Focused- Many obstacles get in the way of student focus. In elementary, it may be the silly kid that likes practical jokes, or maybe the best friend that likes to constantly talk to them. In middle school or high school, it may be that good looking fellow student that keeps turning around and smiling. Whatever the case may be, talking with your child about school and how important it is to take it seriously may be the only thing you need to do to keep them in check. Bullying- Let’s face it, there is not one person in this world that can say that they have never had their feelings hurt in one way or another or have never heard anyone say something negative towards them. It is very important to build up that self confidence in your child to the point where if someone started saying something negative, it would not hinder them in any way. If someone is emotionally solid, words won’t knock them down. In fact, it is those who are spreading the negativity that often need the most help. These are the saddened ones. If we all start spreading a nice “pay it forward” atmosphere, maybe our schools or even our world would be a healthier, happier place. I challenge every student this year to “pay it forward” with some kind of nice deed, not expecting anything in return, and see how it changes your environment. In fact, we at FOCUS would love to hear about it. Like us on Facebook and let us know. Wellington Hehn 3rd Grade Lincoln Magnet School for International Studies
Parents
Parents only want the best for our kids. Keeping the parent/ teacher communication is vital throughout your child’s entire school experience. Be sure to attend the teacher orientation held before school begins to get a good idea on what to expect this year for your child’s school as well as from each teacher. Find out right away when conference dates will be held and make it a point to attend. Edsby is the new online tool being used throughout Hillsborough County and can guide you in the right direction of how you can help your child. Constant updated teacher communication, reminders, and class grades can be viewed using this system. Good communication with your child will also help you get a good idea on whether or not other changes may need to be made. Always get the “whole story” from each side so you can collect your thoughts on any situation. Sometimes our children need us to take a look into some situations that may be hard for them to handle alone. Then again, as they grow older, they may need us to back away and let them manage the situation on their own. That is a good time to just watch and not say anything unless you are needed. Relax, your child is growing up and can handle more than you think.
Cheyenne Lopez 9th Grade Plant City High School
Principals SUNDY CHAZARES SIMMONS CAREER & EXCEPTIONAL CENTER
SHERRI BLACK CORK ELEMENTARY
ANNE RUSHING
SPRINGHEAD ELEMENTARY
GINA BECKER
WILSON ELEMENTARY
CHERYL BODDIE
BRYANT ELEMENTARY
Arie Fry 10th Grade Plant City High School
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Principals JANINE HALL
KNIGHTS ELEMENTARY
JENNIFER WEST
LINCOLN MAGNET SCHOOL FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDIES
DAVID BROWN
STRAWBERRY CREST HIGH SCHOOL
Teachers
As a fellow teacher, I feel we learn more with each passing class. It amazes me each year how much the students learn and grow. It is a true blessing to a teacher to see former students who come back after many years to express just how much they contributed to their success. Teachers have a huge amount of details to tend to in order to make sure your child receives the accurate objectives to build their education. It is important to see through some situations and notice that the kid with the attitude may just need some love and attention and special guidance that only you can succeed in giving. Again, let’s all remember the “pay it forward” challenge and see how much of an improvement we can make in our school environments. I challenge all parents, educators, and students to play the role of spreading a positive environment this year. I have also been told by students as well as teachers that a little prayer before school is something that never hurts. It gives a positive start to a long day. Let’s make this school year great. Good luck and best wishes for a successful year.
“Upon the subject of education,
not presuming
to dictate any
plan or system COLLEEN RICHARDSON PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL
respecting it, I
can only say that I view it as the most important
subject which we as a people may be engaged in.”
- Abraham Lincoln
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Barie Fry 3rd Grade Lincoln Magnet School for International Studies
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Like us on facebook: www.facebook.com/WishingWellBarn
4302 Pippin Road Plant City, Fl 33567 813-478-6554 wishingwellbarn.com
Wishing Well Barn
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DREAMS DO COME TRUE AUGUST 2014 focusplantcity.com
s far back as he can remember, Omar Castro has been kicking around a soccer ball, and it’s been nearly that long since he first had dreams of becoming a professional soccer player. Five months ago, those dreams came a reality when Castro signed a three-year pro contract on his eighteenth birthday, February 17, 2014, with Eintracht Braunschweig U23 club that plays in Germany’s Bundesliga league, one of the top leagues in the world. In July of 2013, Castro moved to Germany to play soccer and although he had not yet signed a contract, he was already in the system, so to speak, as he played for Eintracht Braunschweig’s youth team, further honing his skills until he was eligible to sign a professional contract. Two years ago, as a sixteen year-old, Castro realized that he had the talent to play professionally. But he also knew that they are a lot of athletes with the necessary talent who never sign a contract. Furthermore, Omar knew that there are other factors that contribute to success besides talent. So, every morning he would rise before dawn and trek off to the gym where he religiously worked out. Breakfast was next, followed by schoolwork. Castro was home schooled, so from about 9:00 to 4:00 every day, you could find him on the computer working on his Florida Virtual School classes. After a snack, he was off to soccer practice by 5 pm. When practice was over, he’d head back to the house to chill out or watch soccer on T.V. That was his routine nearly every day and he loved it. Soccer was not something that Castro squeezed into his life, soccer was his passion and as a result, Castro is living his dream. Today, he is doing well. He has his own apartment, he’s receiving a handsome salary and he’s adjusting to the German culture. He is spending a couple of hours every day studying the German language while fitting in his last few Florida Virtual School classes on his way to his high school diploma. Castro believes that even with his busy schedule, that he will finish his studies by December and become a high school graduate. “Omar is a special individual. He is very humble. Off the field he is very shy, but on the field his passion and competitive nature takes over. It’s amazing what he can do.” That commentary came from Castro’s coach, mentor, friend, and guardian, Stephen Rossiter. And few people know Castro as well as Rossiter does. For the past seven years, Castro has lived with Rossiter. Castro’s parents, Jesus and Regina Castro, made a selfless decision when Omar was eleven years old that they felt would benefit their son’s future. You see, Omar’s parents moved to Plant City from Mexico more than 20 years ago and worked hard to support their seven children. But money was tight and Jesus and Regina saw a talent and a passion in Omar that would need direction. Although the family was close, his parents decided to make a decision that was best for Omar… that would give him an opportunity to play a game at a higher level… a game that his dad had taught him to love. “When Omar’s dad came to me and explained the situation,” said Rossiter. He asked if I would consider having Omar live with me. He wanted what was best for his son.” “I am from a big family and my parents knew that Steve could help me better my life and could help me
pursue my dream and so they made a decision that they knew would put me in the best environment to be successful,” said Castro. Until he turned eighteen, Rossiter had legal custody of Castro, but Castro was still close to his family. They would see one another all the time and they went to church together every week. Besides, Rossiter is almost like family anyway. You see, Rossiter’s son is married to Omar’s sister. After Omar was named Most Valuable Player at the Tampa Bay Sun Bowl in December of 2012, a national tournament that attracted more than 100 college coaches and scouts, he decided that he would rather bypass college for the professional ranks in Europe and he signed an agreement with ExtraTime, a soccer-consulting firm from Barcelona that scouts and develops international players. Through ExtraTime, Castro worked out with FC Barcelona, considered by some to be the best club in the world, mainly because it has arguably the best player in the world, two-time FIFA player of the year, Lionel Messi. Through the efforts of ExtraTime, Omar also spent two weeks in Holland working with Vitesse, a Division I club. After Castro penned his contract, he began play with the Eintracht Braunschweig U19, and helped the team move from a miserable 2012-13 season record to a first place finish this season, before being promoted up to the Eintracht Braunschweig U23 squad. Castro, who plays the #6 position (holding midfielder), made his debut with the Eintracht Braunschweig U23 reserve club on May 18. It was a long way geographically from playing recreationally at Plant City’s Otis M. Andrews fields, but it was also a long way in terms of success. “When I made my debut, I was excited and happy,” Castro recalled, “but I also knew that it was time to go to work to make the best of my opportunity for the next few years… to move up to the first team. I am the youngest player on the team and most of them have played professionally. They are more experienced and they understand that the game is a business too.” Castro also knows it’s a business and has treated it as such. He can recite his schedule for each day and he religiously follows it because he knows what’s at stake. To be a professional athlete is a privilege and there are few that are talented enough or work hard enough to do so. In fact, only 0.04% of all high school soccer players will ever play professionally. Even with those infinitesimal odds, Omar is not the first professional soccer player in his family. He has a first cousin that used to play professionally in the Mexican league. At 5’11” and 145 lbs., the lean sweeping defender has been in the limelight internationally for a number of years. In 2013, he was selected to the U.S. National U17 team and earlier this year he became a member of the U.S. National U18 team. Eintracht Braunschweig U23 regular season that began in August, ended the first week in June which allowed Castro to come home to Plant City for a little rest and also to spend some time with family and friends. At home, he has become somewhat of a celebrity and locals who know anything about soccer know who Castro is and what he has accomplished so far. And while his vacation of less than a month was short-lived, Castro was eager to return to Germany to participate in the club’s off-season training camp. He admits that he is getting acclimated to the German culture. He also feels more comfortable with the German language, and has developed a few new friends. He even has a girlfriend who lives nearby that he spends time with. But although Castro has taken most things in stride, he is a little surprised by the passion of the German people for the sport of soccer. “The German fans are crazy about soccer. They’re very passionate about the game,” said Castro. “I’ve been told that some are so passionate about the game that they’ll spend all their money on tickets and don’t have enough money left to buy food.” When Castro was sixteen, Rossiter knew Castro was special because that is what scouts called him. “He is what the scouts call a special player. He understands the game. He has a vision of the field and anticipates what happens before it happens.” It’s obvious that he, not only has field vision and can anticipate what will happen in a game, but his vision for the coming season is to get more playing time with the reserve team and move on up. He is anticipating that to happen, and it probably will. “He just keeps advancing every year,” says Rossiter. “Within a year, Omar should be moved up to the first team.” There are no doubters, among those who know Castro that Rossiter’s forecast will come to pass. After all, all of Castro’s dreams have come true so far. FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AUGUST 2014
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BILL LAVENDER, DR. CREDIT CREDIT RESTORATION BY DEANA GARRISON
H
aving a decent credit score is extremely valuable. Most decisions we make in our life depend on our credit score in one way or another. Whether you are purchasing a home, buying that car you’ve always wanted, applying for insurance, getting a new job, or simply trying to get your electricity turned on with a low deposit, your credit score determines the next step. If it is weak, chances are you are going to leave without your dream or end up paying entirely more than you deserve to pay. We have found the right man that can help you get the score you desire. With over 30 years of experience, Bill Lavender, also known as “Dr. Credit”, has been assisting many people in the Tampa Bay area through his restoration company for the past 15 years to achieve their financial goals. Similar to a healthcare doctor, he finds a cure for your credit ailment. In fact, if his guidelines are followed, he has never let anyone down. All of these successes are due to his knowledge of how it all works. He has built an amazing rapport with many leading bankers, mortgage companies, financial institutions, home builders, and lawyers. This in turn has given him many resources he needs to help anyone succeed in restoring their credit. In speaking to Lavender about all he has accomplished for his company, Bob Adams, owner of Highland Homes told him, “We appreciate everything you have done for us to help our credit challenged buyers achieve the goal of home ownership.” There are many things you can do to strengthen your score. Believe it or not, there are also many things that
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you “think” would help your score, but the minute you do it, your score drops. Lavender not only analyses your credit report and prepares a plan all mapped out for you to get started on your mission, but he also gives the details of who to contact and what to do next. You can get all your answers in one simple consultation that is reasonably priced or for those that need that step by step monthly guidance; there is also a plan for you. Lavender will make sure your situation is confidential and helps you put your mind at ease. One proud homeowner from Bartow, had this to say to the Credit Doctor, “Thank you Bill Lavender for everything you did for me and my family. When I came to you, my credit was in bad shape. I was tired of renting a place for me and my children. You worked with me and enabled me to have a home custom built so I could have a home for me and my children.” That statement alone shows he not only has the knowledge of what to do, he also has the true heart to help anyone that has the desire to get that credit in shape. There is a misconception that he only helps the desperate with bad credit reports. On the contrary, he is also there for many who simply want an extra boost to achieve a higher score than the average score they already attain.
INFORMATION BILL LAVENDER “DR. CREDIT” Office (813)655-9451 Cell (352)208-5922 creditdoctorbill.com
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APARTMENTS FOR SENIORS One bedroom Apartments • Rent based on income
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HOW TO READ CONFUSING CREDIT SCORE CODES
ONLY 38 SIT REMAININGES !
BY NATE DAVIS
I
f you’ve received a consumer copy of your credit report, or if you have received a letter from a creditor because you recently applied for a loan, you may have noticed a list of “reason codes” with numbers and a short explanation of what the number means. This explanation is usually vague, and most people don’t understand what it is saying. For instance, if your letter or report lists a reason code of 32, the short explanation will probably read, “Balances on bankcard or revolving accounts too high compared to credit limits.” Or if it lists No. 38, it will probably read, “Serious delinquency and public records or collection filed.” If you ever find yourself scratching your head about these codes, here’s a Web site that can help you in the future: ReasonCode.org. You can also call my team at 813707-6200 for help. The picture above is what ReasonCode.org will show for reason code No. 32. Here is the explanation
ReasonCode will give you about No. 32: “Bankcard accounts include credit cards and charge cards from a bank and are frequently revolving accounts. Revolving accounts allow you to carry a balance and your monthly payment will vary based on the amount of your balance. You have bankcards or revolving accounts in your credit file with balances that are high compared to the credit limit on the account, which is a proven indicator of increased risk.” Here’s ReasonCode’s tip on what to do to increase your score: “Pay down balances on your accounts and keep them below 30% of the total credit limit on that account. Over time, this will have a positive impact on your score.” If you have any questions about “reason codes” or what you can do now to better your credit profile for a future home purchase, please feel free to call my team if you’d like our help. We can also advise you what to do to increase your credit scores.
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EXPERIENCE AND DEVELOPMENT BY JO-ANN LUSK
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s a Real Estate Agent, or, Realtor, each customer and transaction provides experience and development. No two transactions are alike and in today’s market, each one has its own challenges. As a Managing Broker, I see offers and contracts on a daily basis and at times I am quite surprised at the level of quality in which these legal documents are written. A Purchase Contract is a legal and binding document between Buyer and Seller regarding a real estate property (single family dwelling, modular or manufactured home, commercial building or vacant land). Everything you need to know with respect to the transaction is in the contract. If there is a question about deadlines, financing, time periods, special terms, closing, repairs, disclosures, or inspections it is in the contract. To make it easy, the Florida Association of Realtors and Florida BAR left blank lines to be completed by the agent and customer. If a line is left blank there is default statement after the line, just to be sure. The best discipline? Don’t leave blank lines in the contract. I am equally surprised at the level of skill shown by many agents when writing a contract. Whether you are just starting your real estate business or have done this for 20 years, there are classes held at either your
Broker’s office or your local Board of Realtors to help you with this skill. If your Broker does not provide this education, then you have to find a way to develop your business acumen. If you are smart, you will find access to one of the many forms programs that enable you to create a professional looking document. It is not hard to do, and – you are showing some value to your customer. With today’s technology in real estate, gone are the days when contracts were written on the hood of the car. An agent can bring up the contract on his/her smartphone and email to all parties for electronic signatures within minutes. As a customer, you should expect this knowledge from your agent. You should expect that your agent knows how to negotiate on your behalf. Real Estate Agents are not attorneys, and therefore are not supposed to write their own Clauses and Addenda to the Contract. You should, as the customer, expect the agent to use the most current document available in the industry. I still see forms today that have been out of circulation for at least 7 years. No Agent or Brokerage is perfect. We are all learning something every day, from each customer and transaction. It is our duty to the public to act as a professional and be mindful of their needs and interests. Best of luck…
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WALDEN LAKE REVIEW BY NATALIE SWEET
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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 meetings are scheduled for August 18th and September 15th at 7:00 PM. The meetings are open to all Walden Lake residents. The HOA held the Back to School Pool Party for Walden Lake children K-5 at the YMCA on August 5th. There was lots of food, swimming and goodie bags and fun was had by all who attended. The next HOA event planned will be the Annual HowlO-Ween party and will be held on October 25th. If you haven’t paid your 2nd half of your HOA dues yet, you are late and fees will be accessed. Paying in a timely manner helps keep our HOA dues low. In July, there were 12 sales in Walden Lake and Walden Lake East with an average sale price of $191,117. The sales are as follows: 103 Seville Ct N $88,000 1454 Walden Oaks Pl. $134,900 4204 Thackery Way $145,000 4203 Barret Ave. $162,000 903 Sandalwood Dr. $162,900 2308 Walden Pl. S $175,000 3448 Silverstone Ct. $183,000 1734 Brookstone Way $221,600 3047 Sutton Woods Dr. $233,000 2809 Barret Ave. $250,000 2807 Forest Club Dr. $268,000 2908 Barret Ave. $270,000 There are currently 51 Active listings for sale with an average list
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price of $254,398. There are 23 properties currently pending contract with an average list price of $194,774. The Walden Lake market remains strong for well-priced homes in good condition. It is against the law for anyone unlicensed to be driving a golf cart. Accidents happen! Please do not allow your children behind the wheel of your golf cart. Tray Towles is the new code enforcement officer in Plant City. Mr. Towles has informed Visions Golf of the code violations on the golf course property. Most items have been addressed although there are still some outstanding issues. All information regarding the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club rezoning is posted on the city’s website at http://www. plantcitygov.com/index.aspx?nid=956 . Have you heard about Walk with a Doc? This is a free walking program for anyone who is interested in taking strides to improve their health. The walk is held the last Saturday of each month and begins at the Oracle office at 1602 W Timberlane Drive at 9:00. They will perform free blood pressure checks and there are vendors with giveaways. There is usually a speaker and the walk is approximately 1.8 miles and goes from the Oracle office to the park and back. This is your chance to ask questions of the Doc. Feel free to contact me about any real estate questions or about this article. NSweet@KW.com or 813758-9586.
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SPONSORED BY CHILI’S
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ZACH MONDOUX ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
BY DEANA GARRISON
T
his month’s Athlete of the Month holds a special place in my heart. Not only is he an outstanding athlete, but he is also an outstanding student. I can vouch for that because Zach Mondoux was one of my former students many years ago. It seems nothing has changed. He is still the sweet young man I remember with a determination for success. Mondoux graduated from Plant City High School this past year with honors. He earned an academic as well as sports scholarship and was accepted at Southern Wesleyan University in South Carolina. There,
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he will continue his success in baseball as he also develops his future goals. His baseball career all started at the age of five when his father signed him up for baseball. He has continued playing ever since. In fact, his family is extremely involved in the sport with two other brothers playing as well as his father having an active role in the baseball organization throughout the years. Their influence along with being a huge Yankees fan has given him all the encouragement he needs. Throughout the years, he has played for many baseball little leagues as well as All Stars and Travel teams
helping many of them succeed in getting championship titles. He played on the Plant City High School baseball team throughout his high school years playing many infield positions however, his main position is shortstop. Mondoux is a natural. He makes the sport look easy. His teamwork skills and determination are major contributors to his success. I always love to mention the academic side to the Athlete of the Month. Mondoux meets that fine example of academic excellence. He has always had that goal driven motivation to do his very best and it
3001 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City, FL 813-764-8548 www.chilis.com
shows not only on the field but in his grades as well. He proves that having an athletic ability is not the only thing…you need the academic side as well to have an overall balance. It is nice to see students continue after high school with their passion for sports and academics and put it all into action for their future. Mondoux has done just that. He is a fine example and excellent role model for others to follow. Congratulations Zach! We at FOCUS wish you the very best.
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SPORTS TEAM OF THE MONTH
9-10 PLANT CITY ALL STARS BY DEANA GARRISON
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he 9-10 Plant City All Stars team has proven they have what it takes to pull together as a team for one goal. The All Stars team is put together at the end of baseball season from top rated players from each team in the league. The coaches get together and decide who will be selected from those teams to form an All Star team made up of 12 boys. The boys selected obviously stood out from the rest and gave it their all throughout the season. Once selected, these boys no longer competed against one another on opposing teams. They became a
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team of their own. The coaches that came together to support these boys in their journey were Jeff Conyers, Dan Smith, Kelvin Lugo, and Roy Palmer. Sometimes it is hard to bring a group together that really haven’t played together throughout the season a good transition. This team put all that worry to shame. Not only did they come together without any issues and worked together for a goal, they were able to achieve some pretty impressive titles along the way. Their first great achievement was taking the District Four Championship title. Winning this
championship was exciting, however, as they continued at Progress Village they achieved yet another goal. This time they took home the Sectional Championship title. With the great wins came the invite to the State Competition which they represented Plant City well. This group of young men showed great sportsmanship as well as outstanding teamwork. They seemed to pull together and cheer each other on. “I am proud of the boys. They make a great team. I worried about the chemistry, but they gelled together well,” says Coach Conyers. Conyers
said that this team’s strengths were definitely pitching. There were many great pitchers on the team. This made batting very difficult for the other teams. Conyers went on to brag about the parents of the boys that showed only positive support. It is so nice to have parents that support any and all decisions made on the field. It sure helps to have a great season when the support of the parents is strong. Congratulations 9-10 Plant City All Stars for being Team of the Month for August. You represented Plant City well and we are proud of you.
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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AUGUST 2014
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E news, they can begin to use it. It’s awesome to see that transition away from anger, worry, fear, and bitterness, to complete trust and action in Him.
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What do you do for fun? Anything the family does together is a great joy: Disney, boating, vacationing in the mountains. Top of the list is when my children use their musical skills and bring joy to others. I also enjoy model-making, concerts, gardening and working on our goldfish pond.
LEADERS IN 6 FAITH: DAVID DELPH
What are you reading, watching, and listening to? Killing Jesus, B. O’Reilly. Best movie either “Star Wars” or “Field of Dreams.” My radio is usually on 970 WFLA, but musically, 107.3 The Eagle.
BY DEREK MAUL
I
n 2003 when Bartow native David Delph answered the call to pastor Plant City’s First Presbyterian Church, it was a little like coming home. Eleven years later, along with wife Rebecca, two adult children, “too many” cats, and one dog, there’s no doubt the affable reverend is home.
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What makes Plant City unique? It’s interesting to see the dramatic metamorphosis during The Strawberry Festival. Then the more time I spend here, the more I appreciate the presence of souls who truly reach out; both church and civic organizations. Being a “Rotarian” puts me right in the middle of men and women who simply want to make life better for others!
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How does First Presbyterian fit into this community? We seek to be a simple and consistent voice for the Word of God. To be that place that holds up the unchanging truth of Jesus Christ. The Plant City community helps people remember
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what is “important,” over what is “urgent.” First Presbyterian has a simple motto – “Seek, Serve, Sow”. We want to help keep Jesus as the one who matters most.
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How would you invite folk to visit First Presbyterian? We want to be seen and known as good neighbors in Christ. We recently furbished a half-city block just to the west of the City Hall, as a welcome mat in the community. On November 1 we’re planning a community Arts & Crafts and music festival. We’ll have a community BBQ party around Labor Day. We want to connect the souls of the community with souls from the church, and show them a place where people can come and ask honest questions, and find outlets for worship, service and fellowship.
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What gives you joy in ministry? Hands down – when people begin to “get it,” and “use it.” When they begin to see the grace of God, and begin to understand the good
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What scripture would you share with Plant City? Ephesians 2:1-10. “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the
gift of God— not the result of works, so that no one may boast” (8-9).
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What’s the foundational mission of First Presbyterian Church? Praising God; upholding, teaching, and digesting God’s Word for God’s people; seeking to serve; a welcoming fellowship.
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What’s the big challenge? That God’s people rest in His power and His Grace. We forget that it’s about Jesus building His church, not us attempting to build His church for Him. And, that we have the courage to trust His power at work in us, not just a select few.
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0 What’s the big challenge for Plant City? How to keep up with a rapidly changing culture, while remaining the close-knit, hometown community. Being close to such sizable communities perhaps we can connect with the fast paced world as we desire, but always “come home” to Plant City. I hope it never changes much.
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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AUGUST 2014
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CANDY’S CORNER BY CANDY OWENS
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OU CAN’T MOVE TO THE HEAD OF THE CLASS WITHOUT THE RIGHT GADGETS! Check out the back-toschool buying advice and find the best student laptops, smart phones, tablets and other high-tech gear. Plus, check out the top app picks for students, free software and must-have gadgets for your high school year. The new tablet or phone you’re bringing to school isn’t just for sharing photos on Instagram or checking Twitter. Your device can also be a great study partner. Whether you’re looking to take better notes and sync them with the cloud or you’re trying to crack a mind-bending math problem, the right apps can get you ahead. Bringing a phone to school, tablets, high-tech gear, software, and syncing with a cloud? What……..back when I entered high school in 1977, how in the world would you bring a phone to school when it was attached to the wall at your house? A tablet was a pad of paper to write on or a pill to swallow, high-tech gear was on the floorboard of the car, software….. was that anything like Tupperware? And syncing with a cloud….was that a drug induced state or just a good night’s sleep? If you needed to take better notes, then you moved to the front row of your class, you sharpened your number two pencil and listened closely. If you needed a great study partner then you made friends with
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a Nerdy honor student. Where in the world are we today? My, how times have changed! Our school supplies consisted of: a notebook, notebook paper, ink pens, number two pencils and plenty of them, a ruler, a compass, a protractor, Elmer’s glue, colored folders, paperclips, a dictionary, and if you were real lucky, you or your parents owned a typewriter and a set of World Books. The school day at Plant City High School started at 12:00 noon and ran to 5p.m. for the 10th graders. If you were in the 11th or 12th grade, your day began at 7:00a.m., and finished at 12:00noon, and consisted of five classes. Back then, we were on double session because we were the only high school in the area. There was no Durant, Bloomingdale, Newsome, or Strawberry Crest High School. The closest High School to us was Brandon High School. If you were in the 10th grade and wanted to eat lunch at school, then you had to come to school one hour early. If you were in the 11th or 12th grade and wanted to eat lunch at school, then you had to stay after school for one hour. Needless to say, most of us went home to eat. If we were lucky enough to have money in our pocket, a car, our parent’s car, or caught a ride with a friend, we would have lunch at McDonalds, Pizza Hut, Dipper Dan/The Plaza Snack Shop, Gino’s, What-A-Burger, or even munch down on a Super Chief and fries at Burger Chief. Now that was some good eatin!!!!! Now, once you had your school supplies all in line, then it was time to get your personal look ready for school. Guys and Girls alike went to beauty shops to get their hair cut and styled. No more Barber Shops for guys. The John Travolta, Starsky and Hutch, Dance Fever, feathered back Vidal Sassoon look was in. Guys fluffed and puffed their hair just as much as the girls did. Back in those days there were two places that were cooler than cool to get
your hair cut and styled. There was: The Man Trap at University Square Mall in Tampa and Shear Fantasy in Plant City. I was one of the lucky ones who went to Shear Fantasy. The salon was owned and operated by brothers David and Steve Johnson and a gal named Bitsy. David had a cool sort of Afro and Steve had the sleek feathered back long hair. (In those days, all the girls thought that the Johnson brothers were two Foxy Dudes) Their shop was very earthy and had panoramic wall paper that looked like you were out in the middle of a forest during Fall. The furniture was all natural wicker and rattan. The chairs were the high back Morticia Addams style chairs and you sat and waited your turn while groovin to the tunes of Quad 102 ½ radio station in Quadraphonic Stereo. (WQSR-FM 102.5 SARASOTA was a legendary 100,000 watt stereo station that came to epitomize the progressive rock format during most of the 1970’s) When you walked out of Shear Fantasy, you had been shampooed, cut, blow dried, and styled to look like: Dorothy Hamill, David Cassidy, Shaun Cassidy, Andy Gibb, The Bay City Rollers, and the Bee Gees all rolled into one. A Shear Fantasy hair style meant two things: That your hair was feathered from one end to the other and that you were just too cool for school. HAHA! School clothes shopping for high school was serious business! Most kids shopped at Tatum and Johnson’s, The Colony Shop at the Plant City Mall, or at Hooker’s Department Store here in town. If you were doing some serious shopping, you went to Maas Brothers in Lakeland, to Scoggins in Brandon, to Jordon Marsh in Orlando, or to University Square Mall in Tampa, which we referred to as: “The Mall”. A few of the cool clothing stores at “The Mall” back then were: The 5-7-9 shop, The Merry Go Round, The County Seat for jeans and cords, Casual Corner, and The Wild Pair for shoes and handbags. No school outfit was complete without the right fragrance. Guys wore: Jovan Musk Oil for Men, English Leather, British Sterling, or High Karate Cologne. Girls wore: Charlie, Love’s Baby Soft, Babe, Jovan Musk Oil for Women, Jean Nate’, Jontue, and my personal favorite: Ciara. HAHA! Let’s not forget the all important “must haves” for a girl in high school’s purse. A teen girl would carry: hair spray, a hair brush, a comb, Tic Tac’s, bubble gum, Cert’s, aspirin, perfume, band-aids, pencils,
pens, Kleenex, makeup, about four tubes of fruit flavored Bonnie Bell Lip Smacker, and a dime to call home. Guys, they carried a comb. We teens learned the latest dance moves by watching American Band Stand and Soul Train on Saturday Mornings. We listened to the popular songs like: Hot Child in the City, Grease, Jackie Blue, It’s Magic, Brick House, Lady Marmalade, Boogie Oogie Oogie, Get Down Tonight, Please don’t go, Another brick in the wall, and Don’t it make my brown eyes blue, along with groups like: Aerosmith, Lynyrd Skynrd, The Jackson Five, Rush, Pink Floyd, Cars, Captain and Tennille, Air Supply, K.C. and the Sunshine Band, Journey, Kansas, and Peter Frampton from our record players, car radios, eight tracks, or cassette tapes. The cars in the school parking lot were: Cutlass Supremes, Monte Carlos, Grand Prixs, Trans Ams, Ford and Chevy Trucks, VW Beetle Bugs, Vegas, Gremlins, jacked up Novas or Chevelles, and the family car that your parents let you drive to school that day. Let us Segway ahead some thirty five plus years to today. High school students now have so many new and innovative things at their finger tips. Today’s technology is almost unbelievable to many people and especially people my age and older. The teens of today can simply hold a device in their hand and with the quick tap of the screen, be given driving directions from point A to point B, find the definition of a word, listen to the newest music, watch a movie or television program, talk to their friends, do their personal banking, download sale coupons, participate in Social Networking, and even crack a mindbending Math problem. All of these new Technological breakthroughs are wonderful and give the teens of today the answers they are looking for without batting an eye, and I know that the possibilities are endless, but I wonder if the teens of tomorrow will have so many options right at their fingertips while sitting in a chair or at a desk, if they will ever feel the excitement that we felt as teens when we were out on the dance floor dressed in our groovy outfits wearing earth shoes with feathered back hair and reaking of Jovan Musk Oil while busting the move to K.C. and the Sunshine Band’s I’m your Boogie Man.
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WHEN DEAD CHURCHES DRY UP AND BLOW AWAY BY DEREK MAUL
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Talk to me about Allstate Power Sports Insurance. I can help protect your recreational vehicles. Plus, the more you protect, the more you can save-with multi-policy discounts. Call me and I can help you find the discounts you may qualify for.
RALPH L. FEOLA, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF (813) 752 2556 1003 S COLLINS ST PLANT CITY a026519@allstate.com Availability varies by product type and is subject to availability and qualifications. Discount amount may vary by state.Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Allstate Indemnity Company: Northbrook, Illinois © 2009 Allstate Insurance Company.
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o if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17 I have to admit I quote this scripture a lot. But I think it’s because – for me – the heart of the good news about faith is so clearly about new life, new possibilities, new creation, and a future loaded with living promise. Consequently, both Rebekah and I were a little surprised the other morning at breakfast to note that the roses on the kitchen table were beyond dead, and they’d evidently been that way for some time. How had we let that one slip by? Truth be told, leaving dead things in place is not that unusual. Sometimes we hang on to deceased traditions in the hopes that somehow they’ll spontaneously revive again; sometimes we’re simply in denial (“Oh, it’s not that bad, yellow roses often come back, maybe it’ll look better tomorrow…”); but mostly we just get used to the decline, we become inured to the decay, and we simply don’t see it any more. I know a lot of faith communities where people just seem to be hanging on for dear life, waiting for “the good old days” to come back around. But the blooms are drying up, the petals are falling off, and the leaves are curling. Because what they’re hanging on to isn’t Jesus, it’s tradition. They are, essentially, a vase of cut flowers and they aren’t rooted in anything that has any ability to give them life. The vase of dead flowers reminds me of the story of Gamaliel. Gamaliel was the religious leader who pointed
out that the early church would fall flat on its face if The Way was merely a human construction. “If this plan or this undertaking is of human origin, it will fail; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them (Acts 5:38-39).” Here’s the thing. If the church is dying, (and many of them are) then it’s not connected to the vine. • The gospel isn’t about propping up human traditions, it’s about following Jesus. • The good news isn’t about nostalgia, it’s about a restored relationship with God. • The church won’t flourish because we follow the latest interpretation of The Law, it’s going to thrive because people meet Jesus there. • Salvation isn’t offered because people meet your particular catalog of standards, it comes when we accept – and live into – the saving grace of Jesus. • New life will never animate the soul of a community that builds walls to protect itself, but will vitalize a community that gives itself away. Rebekah and I often say that we have been called to bloom exactly where we are planted. But that planting must be rooted in the Good News, or we’re simply going to dry up and die. The mission statement of our church in Wake Forest puts it this way, “Rooted in Christ; Growing together in faith; Reaching out to others.” “Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing.” - John 15:4-5
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WANDA’S
WORDS OF WISDOM BY WANDA “LEWIS” ANDERSON
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love summer and cooking outdoors. Sometimes I forget to buy long matches for lighting the grill. I recently discovered that the next best thing is to light the end of a stick of spaghetti. You can use it to light the grill or anything else that requires a long match. This works great for lighting candles too. Here’s an easy way to clean your grill. Heat up your grill and place half of an onion (cut side down) on the end of a fork and rub. The onion removes all the old grit and food. My Mom gave me a great tip for easy clean up when painting. Line your paint pan with wide aluminum foil and after you’ve finished let it dry. Then simply roll up the aluminum foil. Now you have a nice clean paint pan for the next painting project. You can also place a large flat rubber band across the top of an open paint can (top to bottom in the middle of the can) to wipe your paint brush
on. This will keep the paint off the sides of the paint can. Here’s a great way to identify different keys on your key chain. Simply paint the tops with nail polish. You can be creative with different colors. We live in Florida so I think everyone owes flip flops. Sometimes the hole on the bottom will split and this causes the stem to pop up through the hole. Here’s a trick to keep that from happening. Place a flat bread clip on the bottom of the flip flop and push the opening of the clip over the stem. This keeps the stem in place. It works great on kid’s flip flops. Have you ever dropped an ear ring or small piece of jewelry on the floor or carpet? It’s almost impossible to find. Try placing a knee high or stocking over the end of your vacuum hose then vacuum. The suction will keep the object on the end of the hose without it going through your vacuum cleaner. Until next time relax, enjoy and be thankful…
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CONTRASTS AND SIMILARITIES IN LIFE AND ART
LOCAL ARTIST BARRY GIACOBBE BY HEATHER DAVIS
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erhaps it can be said that by examining a piece of artwork that one can get a glimpse of the artists soul. If this were true than the artwork of local artist Barry Giacobbe reflects a person whose heart and soul resides amongst the various Keys of Key West. But this reflection would not be entirely accurate as Barry’s life was not always a leisurely life spent listening to the tunes of Jimmy Buffet while in Margaritaville. Barry who was born and raised in Pennsylvania is a Veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard, a 25 years law enforcement Veteran and was an Instructor at Hillsborough Community College in the Criminal Justice department. For Barry painting was an escape and a break from the challenges and difficulties that came from working in the Law Enforcement field. Painting scenes of Key West came naturally to Barry as it is his favorite place to visit. Barry knew he always wanted to move to Florida and upon retirement his dream of moving came true. Since retiring Barry know has the time to concentrate and truly delve into painting. His choice of medium through which he expresses his talent is watercolor. Although watercolor is his chosen medium it does not stop Barry from painting abstracts when the mood strikes him, which is generally not done with watercolor. For example, Barry completed a stunning version of Picasso’s Blue Nude using watercolor which is uniquely and beautifully his own.
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When I asked Barry how art has influenced his life he stated that “one of the most interesting things that keeps art alive for me is that when you paint a picture you have created something no one else has ever created but you.” Now more than ever Barry’s life does reflect his art when he paints scenes of his beloved Key West to the tunes of Jimmy Buffet and a bottle of wine into the wee hours of the morning. To view the artwork of Barry Giacobbe you may visit the Art Lounge Gallery in downtown Plant City where Barry is a member.
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Happy Hour 11:00am – 7:00pm 7:00pm to Close $4.00 Smirnoff Vodka (All flavors) $4.50 Smirnoff Bombs $4.00 SO CO Lime Shots Live Acoustic Entertainment starting at 5:30pm Live Bands starting at 9:00pm
TUESDAY
Happy Hour 11:00am – 7:00pm $5.00 Burger Night 5:00pm – 10:00pm 7:00pm – Close $3.50 Bacardi (All flavors) $7.99 Bud Light Pitchers
SATURDAY
Happy Hour 11:00am to 7:00pm • 7:00pm to Close $7.99 Bud Light Pitchers $4.50 House Wines $4.50 1800 Silver $5.00 1800 Johnny Vegas Live Band begins at 9:00pm
WEDNESDAY
Happy Hour 11:00am – 7:00pm Customer Appreciation Night 7:00pm – Close Kids Eat Free w/purchase of Entrée Cheap Beer Night 7:00pm to Close $2.00 Domestic Drafts $4.50 Import & Crafts $3.50 House Wines Free Live Entertainment Open Mic Night 8:00pm to Late
SUNDAY
Happy Hour 1:00pm to Close (All Day) “Slugathon Sundays” During all Live Rays Games. WIN! WIN! WIN! Tuesday through Sunday Save 15% - S.I.N. (Not Applicable on Nightly Specials)
THURSDAY
Happy Hour 11:00am to 7:00pm Trivia 7:30pm to 9:00pm Ladies Night 9:00pm – 11:00pm Free Domestic (Ladies Only) $2.75 Wells (Ladies Only) $5.00 Jager Bombs / Irish Car Bombs $2.50 Miller & Coors
O’Brien’s Irish Pub & Family Restaurant 1701 S. Alexander Street, Plant City, FL 813-764-8818 www.obrienpubs.com facebook.com/plantcityobriens
FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AUGUST 2014
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TACO BUS KEEPING IT CHIDO BY HEATHER DAVIS
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n the world of food truck phenomenon one truck, or shall we say “Bus” rises above all the rest. Look for the big yellow school bus known as Taco Bus and prepare yourself to “experience” the real taste of Mexico. What is it that sets Taco Bus apart from the others? It is because Taco Bus prepares the food it serves using traditional recipes prepared daily with only the freshest ingredients. With over five restaurant locations located in Tampa, Brandon, and St. Petersburg, as well as two mobile food trucks, Taco Bus is becoming a staple
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in our community. As a bona fide Taco Bus fan I thought I knew what I would be in store for while doing my dining review. But in hindsight I now realize Taco Bus is so much more then I ever thought. Two new menu items, the grilled and seasoned shrimp made either spicy or with garlic and the barbacoa (Bar-B-Que) prepared Guadalajara style are two exciting and tasty additions to the Taco Bus Menu. Although not a new item on the menu, the “Rajas Con Queso” which is roasted poblano peppers in
a creamy white sauce with Mexican white cheese, salsa ranchera and sweet corn kernels was the perfect blend of flavors. When dining at Taco Bus you first chose from an assortment of “bases” that will carry your choice of fillings. These bases include the taco, tostado, burrito, quesadilla, or torta. Once you have made your choice then the fun begins with trying to decide on a filling. All the fillings whether chicken, beef, pork, steak, or fish are prepared using traditional Mexican techniques that render juicy, deliciously seasoned, and tender selections of meats. For example the “Cochinita Pibil” is shredded pork marinated in achiote and bitter orange, then wrapped in banana leaves and slow roasted in a smoker. Now how is that for delicious! Taco Bus also offers many options for vegetarians and vegans that does not only begin and end with beans and
rice. With options such as grilled tofu marinated in Mexican spices, vegan tempeh, vegan “steak strips” seasoned and grilled, and my personal favorite the butternut squash, Taco Bus gives vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike a reason to celebrate. Must tries on the Taco Bus menu are the freshly made guacamole, the butternut squash tostado, barbaquo, seasoned shrimp, and when in season the “agua de sandia” which is a sweetened watermelon water. If you can manage to leave room for desert the mouthwatering tres leche, flan, and homemade rice pudding are all prepared fresh daily and make a perfect end to an authentic Mexican meal. For more information on Taco Bus locations, business hours, or to find out about catering option visit www. taco-bus.com.
FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AUGUST 2014
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ETOUFFEE SAUCE:
*should be started first to allow the flavors to infuse
2 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp butter 2 tbsp flour ½ cup chicken stock ½ tsp sage
NEW ORLEANS STYLE SHRIMP AND POLENTA RECIPE BY SAVANNAH RAYE JONES
E
very proud Southern citizen knows the joys of a bowl full of shrimp and grits. What’s not to love about a dish made with cheese, butter, carbs, and fresh bay shrimp? I often forget how spoiled those of us who live in the southern part of the U.S. are when it comes to our food, so when I took a recent trip to California I was surprised to see that the local grocery stores didn’t carry grits! After searching the aisles of three different grocery stores, I finally settled for a bag of polenta, which is, essentially, a close cousin to grits. I discovered my favorite version of shrimp and grits on a trip to New Orleans, during which I ordered shrimp and grits that came served with a dollop of crawfish etouffee. Since then I’ve been making my own variation of New Orleans style shrimp and grits. Even my non-seafood eating (and one vegan) friends have scarfed down bowls full of this recipe.
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½ tsp thyme ¼ cup each of minced onion, celery, and green bell pepper ¼ cup diced tomatoes 1 tsp minced garlic Hot sauce, salt, and pepper to taste
Sautee olive oil and butter until melted, then stir in flour. Continue stirring until mixture is slightly browned. Gradually add chicken stock with sage and thyme. When thickened add onion, celery, bell peppers, tomatoes and garlic. Add hot sauce and seasonings to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer while completing the rest of the dish.
POLENTA: 6 cups of water Chicken bouillon or chicken stock 2 cups of dry uncooked polenta (can be substituted for grits)
1/2 cup of sharp cheddar 1/3 cup cream cheese 1 tbsp. butter
SHRIMP: 2 tbsp olive oil 1 lb cooked shrimp (either baby or full size) 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
½ tbsp of black pepper 1/2 cup of sharp cheddar 1/3 cup cream cheese 1 tbsp. butter
Bring the water to a boil and add the bouillon as per your personal preference. Once the water is boiling, add the polenta and cook on low for around 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the desired texture is reached, stir in the cheddar, cream cheese, and butter, until fully incorporated. Let it sit on low heat to keep warm until ready to be served, and remember to stir occasionally.
In a pan over medium high heat, add olive oil. Once the pan has heated up, quickly add shrimp, lemon juice, and pepper and cook just long enough to sear the edges of the shrimp (no longer than a minute). Serve the grits warm with etouffee sauce and shrimp on top as desired.
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. 9/15/2014
Must present coupon at time of purchase. Not to be combined with other offers. One coupon per visit, per order. 9/15/2014
$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 9/15/2014
Must present coupon at time of purchase. Not to be combined with other offers. One coupon per visit, per order. 9/15/2014
an Voted Best Cubw! ro a in s 6 year ty! Thank You Plan
t Ci
NEW EXTENDED HOURS!
Handmade Milkshakes
d Gi ft Card s an Party Tr ay s Available
with real Strawberries, Pineapple, Peanut Butter, Oreos and more.
We are open from 6:30a.m - 6:30p.m Mon - Sat.
1505 N. Wheeler St. Plant City, FL 33563
813-752-3779
You can View our Menu online at www.Thestrawberryhut.com Try our Homade Spanish Bean Soup, Fresh Chef and Greek Salads
COMING SOON! Lakeland location 743 E. Memorial Blvd.
WE WON’T ASK YOU TO SUPER SIZE YOUR COMBO CAUSE IT ALREADY IS.
FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY AUGUST 2014
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» DINING GUIDE
FIND DEALS ONLINE AT MYFOCUSCOUPONS.COM
SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT
CHANCY’S CATFISH SHACK
S
erving Plant City for over 20 years. Our southern style seafood house covers every desire, from catfish, grouper, codfish, jumbo shrimp and gator to frog legs, just to name a few! BUT WAIT...we’re not just seafood. We have babyback ribs, steak, cheese sandwiches, pulled BBQ sandwiches, ruebens, and cuban sandwiches along with many southern sides like fried okra. Plus we have the best fried green tomatoes around, as well as fried pickle chips, hushpuppies and many more to choose from!
2509 NORTH PARK ROAD 813-754-3433
CHILI’S
C
hili’s has been spicing things up since 1975. There is something for everyone’s taste. From sizzling chicken or beef fajitas, fired grilled classic burgers to the new honey chipotle baby back ribs that are slow smoked over pecan wood so they’re “fall-off-the-bone” tender with a bold new honey-chipotle flavor that’s impossible to resist. Call in or come in, you’re always welcome at Chili’s.
3001 JAMES L REDMAN PARKWAY PLANT CITY, FL 33566 813-764-8548 • WWW.CHILIS.COM
NICKS PIZZA AND WINGS
I
f you’ve never experienced the authentic New York style pizza, the “Best Wings in Plant City,” the authentic Philly Cheese Steak sandwiches or the Amoroso rolls at Nick’s Pizza & Wings, don’t wait any longer to discover your new favorite dining establishment.
1707 J. L. REDMAN PKWY. PLANT CITY, FL 33563 813-757-5900 WWW.NICKSPIZZAPLANTCITY.COM
Adam & Jimbo are proud to begin their third year in business and are especially pleased to offer “always fresh” food and 15 different homemade sauces. For your convenience, Nick’s is open daily and until 11PM on weekends. Delivery service is also available.
OLDE TOWN PIZZERIA
I
f you love deep-dish pizza, Olde Town Pizzeria is the only place around to find it. The cheesy Chicago-style pizza is a popular item on the menu, as well as the award-winning Strawberry Walnut Salad and thin crust pizzas. In addition, they have an array of delicious pastas, salads and sandwiches to satisfy all taste buds. This family-owned and operated restaurant is a Plant City favorite for those who love high quality food and friendly service.
3011 JAMES L REDMAN PARKWAY PLANT CITY, FL 33566 (813) 752-5800 • WWW.OLDETOWNPIZZERIA.COM
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SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT
FIND DEALS ONLINE AT MYFOCUSCOUPONS.COM
» DINING GUIDE
PLANT CITY HOMETOWN BUFFET
P
lant City Hometown Buffet is a family owned and operated business started by Elaine Vo, a resident of Plant City for the last 24 years. They offer a wide variety of items spanning the five buffet bars, including seafood and steak. There is certainly something to fit every taste preference, especially if you’re looking for seafood with their catfish, stuffed crab, buttered shrimp and much, much, more.
1914 JAMES L REDMAN PARKWAY PLANT CITY, FL 33563 813-754-4488
TACO REY
W
hether you’re in the mood for soup & salad or the tastiest mexican food in town, Taco Rey Mexican Grill is the King! We are 100% authentic and here to serve you 7 days a week. Our food is freshly prepared for your viewing pleasure and with only the finest ingredients. We offer daily lunch specials and call to order service! Adults and kids will love our menu and Aguas Frescas De Sandia, traditional natural home made drinks.
1818 JAMES REDMAN PARKWAY PLANT CITY, FL 33563 813.754.2100
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can’t miss
event ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL
HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL REGULAR SEASON HOME OPENERS It’s time for some Friday Night Lights! Come out and supports your favorite Plant City area high school students by attending their football home opener games. Whether you’re there for the football players, the cheerleaders, the band, or the drill team, football season is always a great time for friends, fellowship, and friendly competition.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 29 STRAWBERRY CREST HIGH SCHOOL CHARGERS V. BLOOMINGDALE HIGH SCHOOL (VALRICO) BULLS Strawberry Crest High School | 7:30 p.m. 4691 Gallagher Rd., Dover PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL RAIDERS V. STEINBRENNER HIGH SCHOOL (LUTZ) WARRIORS Plant City High School | 7:30 p.m. 1 Raider Place, Plant City FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 DURANT HIGH SCHOOL COUGARS V. SICKLES HIGH SCHOOL (TAMPA) GRYPHONS Durant High School | 7:30 p.m. 4748 Cougar Path, Plant City
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AUGUST 17 SUNDAY
16 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. Plant City Entertainment, Inc. Presents: “Little Mermaid, Jr.” Plant City Entertainment Inc. Theater 4 and 8 p.m. 101 N. Thomas St. In conjunction with The Sunshine Theater Company, Plant City Entertainment, Inc. is proud to present Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr. Journey under the sea with Ariel and her aquatic friends adapted from the 2008 Broadway production. Tickets can be purchased online at pceshows.com using PayPal or can at the box office one hour prior to performance. Prices are $10 for members, $12 for senior citizen non-members and students through the 12th grade, and $14 for general admission non members. For more information, contact Director Jonathan Douglas at showstogo@aol.com or visit pceshows. com.
SEPTEMBER
06 SATURDAY MudTitan Mud Run 1500 Prevatt Rd. With over 30 obstacles throughout this 5K, MudTitan is expected to challenge runners in its 3rd installment with wind, height, sliding, climbing, and of course...running! A part of the proceeds benefits The Youth Alliance. Register online at mudtitanrun. com. Cost will be $89 until August 29. After this date, you must register as a day-of walk-up for $99. For more information, visit theyouthalliance.com or mudtitanrun.com. 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.
Plant City Entertainment, Inc. Presents: “Little Mermaid, Jr.” Plant City Entertainment Inc. Theater | 4 p.m. 101 N. Thomas St. In conjunction with The Sunshine Theater Company, Plant City Entertainment, Inc. is proud to present Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr. Journey under the sea with Ariel and her aquatic friends adapted from the 2008 Broadway production. Tickets can be purchased online at pceshows.com using PayPal or can at the box office one hour prior to performance. Prices are $10 for members, $12 for senior citizen non-members and students through the 12th grade, and $14 for general admission non members. For more information, contact Director Jonathan Douglas at showstogo@aol.com or visit pceshows. com.
26 TUESDAY
2014 Plant City YMCA Strong Leader Dinner John R. Trinkle Center Cocktails at 6:30 p.m. Dinner at 7 p.m. Program at 8 p.m. 1206 N. Park Rd. Plant City YMCA will honor George Banning with the 2014 Strong Leader of the Year award. Tickets are $75 per person, and table sponsorships are available for $1,000 for a table of eight. All proceeds benefit the YMCA’s life-enhancing programs and services. For more information, email reagan.thomas@ tampaymca.org or call 813-757-6677.
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.
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M
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COME VISIT
DOWNTOWN PLANT CITY
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FOCUSOBITUARIES
Analilia Cruz Quinto, 52 of Plant City died on July 26, 2014 at Brandon Regional Hospital. Born November 10, 1961 in Michoacan, Mexico, she was the daughter of Fabian Cruz and the late Delores Quinto. Surviving are daughters, Lina M. Zarsoza, Emalis Zarsoza; brothers Oscar Cruz, and Simon Cruz; sisters Margarita Vasquez and Josesa Cruz, and many other beloved family members.
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Lylburn Franklin “Frank� Roach, 72 of Plant City, died on July 28, 2014, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center. Born January 28, 1942, he was the son of the late Nedas and Irene Miller Roach. He was the husband of Renee Roach, she survives. Also surviving are son, Russell Roach; daughters, Kim LaGrone, Kristie Roach and Alicia Roach; brother, Gene Roach; sisters, Jane Duncan and Jessie Stooksbury; 6 grandchildren. He enjoyed NASCAR and was a Tampa Bay Rays fan.
Mrs. Merriem Estelle Bush, age 83, of Plant City passed away August 3, 2014 in Bonifay, FL. She was born October 13, 1930 in Plant City to the late Charlie Lee and Irma Silas Sutherland. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Bush was preceded in death by her husband, Herman Bush and two sons, Charles Bush and Pete Bush. Mrs Bush is survived by one daughter, Dororthy Claville of Bonfay, FL; one brother, Cody Sutherland of Plant City; one sister, Ardelle Brock of Plant City; several grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Cindy Jane Simpkins, 57 of Lakeland, Florida died July 28, 2014, at Palm Terrace of Lakeland. Born May 10, 1957 in Dover, New Jersey, she was the daughter of the late John and Jean Niper. She was the wife of Robert Simpkins, he survives. Also surviving are son, Kenneth (Heather) Simpkins; siblings, John, Beatrice, and Sherry. Cindy was an all around handyman, and loved to fish, paint, and do crafts.
JUST THE SAME Created by Calvin R. and Jackie Mathews
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Just the Same
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O P R S E P D A N D U O T E R F A C E R I A L B I L L Y O S R T I G O E M U T S E A T S T A R E T A N D R O T U S T O N T A B U P R O D S O O N I H I T E S I S S M N E
L U C I D B R A E S H E A T S O I L
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ACROSS 1. Political alliance 5. Go no further 9. Pastureland 12. Brass instrument 16. Prefix for sphere or ballistics 17. Mount 19. Yank 20. Commandment word 21. Schools in the same state 24. “The __”; ’83-’87 TV series 25. Large leaper 26. Garr & Hatcher 27. Washes 28. Furrows 29. Looked toward 30. Poker term 31. Not interesting 34. Iran’s dollar 35. Jolts 36. FBI lab evidence 39. Books by the same author 43. Corp. bigwigs 44. Football’s Junior 45. Dawn deity 46. “Norma __”; ’79 Sally Field film 47. Heep of fiction 48. Sheraton and Holiday 49. Movies with the same director 54. 84 Across reviewers 55. Nothing more than 56. Silences 57. Readiest to eat, as fruit 58. Ticked off 59. Posteriors 60. Force 61. Bike parts 64. Gaze 65. Snake’s tooth 66. Tuck’s partner 69. Characters in the same film 72. Prescribed amount 73. Former House Majority leader Dick __ 74. Deteriorate 75. Before, in poetry 76. Exuberant spirit 77. “Clair de __”; musical work 78. Cities in the same state 84. Items sent with SASEs 85. Tight 86. Lie next to 87. Ignores posted traffic signs 88. Coin
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by Calvin R. & Jackie Mathews
Nudges Large German seaport Be plentiful “For __ must go down that road from which I will never return.” (Job 16:22) Brings together Fruit salad ingredients Teams from the same city Wait on Boo 1000 in Arles Soothing beverages Highlander’s tongue Dollar bill Untrustworthy one Georgia & others, once: abbr.
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DOWN 1. Sunbathe 2. “__ Smile Be Your Umbrella” 3. Algerian port 4. In harmony 5. Abridge 6. Pamplona runners 7. Church calendar 8. LAX arrival, once 9. Clear 10. Perpendicular add-ons 11. So. state 12. Bore 1
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DENTAL ASSOCIATES PLANT CITY
Dr. John Carter Wants to thank Plant City residents for 5 years of support. Stop by to meet him and the Staff of Dental Associates! We look forward to seeing you.
Dr. John Carter is a general dentist with 17 years experience and a wide range of treatment skills from fillings/crowns and gum therapy to dental implants and orthodontics. Dr. Carter was born in Tampa and grew up in Brooksville, which has given him an appreciation for the outdoors and small towns. He received his dental degree from the University of Florida in 1996 and moved back to the Tampa Bay Area to start his practice. He is a member of the American Dental Association, Florida Dental Association, and West Coast Dental Association. Dr. Carter lives in Tampa with his wife, Genie, and their two young sons, Nicholas and Zachary. They attend St. John’s Greek Orthodox Church. Dr. Carter enjoys family activities, which include biking, water sports, camping, and attending sporting events.
Visit us online at www.SmilesIncluded.com Plant City - 813-719-2222
$39 New Patient Exam & X-Rays Promo D0210 D0150
Ad must be presented at time of appointment
www.SmilesIncluded.com
ER Needed?
Hospital Included.
Just in Case In case it’s more serious than you thought, our full-service Emergency Center is connected to South Florida Baptist Hospital and features the services you may need on-site: n Operating rooms n Team of physician specialists n Heart Center
n Intensive Care Unit n Lab and imaging
301 N. Alexander St. | Plant City
For a physician referral or more information:
(813) 443-2037 or PlantCityEmergency.org
BC1403145-0614
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 09/15/2014
$
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 09/15/2014
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 09/15/2014
ALL MAKES AND MODELS! WE’LL BEAT YOUR BEST TIRE PRICE GUARANTEED!