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~ Glenda R., a patient of South Florida Baptist Hospital

The Care You Need, When You Need It. When it comes to all the health care needs of Glenda and her family, South Florida Baptist Hospital has always been her first choice. From her children’s stitches to her own robotic surgery, Glenda has received a lifetime of care here. A member of the community since 1953, South Florida Baptist Hospital was built on quality, compassionate care. You’ll find a highly skilled and experienced team that works to make patients and visitors as comfortable as possible during their hospital experience. When you’re treated at South Florida Baptist Hospital, you’ll feel at home, close to home — all your health care needs are covered, without ever leaving Plant City. Learn more: SouthFloridaBaptistCare.org

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FOCUS MAGA ZINE PL ANT CIT Y JULY 2016

CONTENTS July 2016 | Volume 15 Issue 07 | focusplantcity.com

14 Local Among our community stories are invites to the July 31 BBQ fundraiser for the Joey Gude family, the 95th anniversary celebration of Plant Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kiwanis Club, and a how-to-get involved with the community outreach work PCPD Officer Priscilla Clark does with the homeless families here in Plant City.

42 Feature: Back to School

Focus welcomes former Tampa Tribune correspondent Barbara Routen, who gathered lots of great information to help families In our Back-to-School feature. Local principals were pleased to share details about new things in their programs and to offer parents and students suggestions for making 2016-2017 their most successful school year yet.

50 Spotlight: Dark Horse Music Store

Our Spotlight for July shines on the Dark Horse Music Store and its young owner, Michael Wilson. With 150 students, Dark Horse is the go-to place for instrument and vocal lessons, as well as supplies. Read how Wilson has turned his passion for music into a business and passion for life.

56 Business: Dental Associates

Dr. Ray Gutierrez and his staff at Dental Associates at Walden Woods invite you and your family to experience personalized, lifetime care at their state-of-the-art practice here in Plant City. And for a closer look, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the recent Focus TV segment that featured this great team.

74 Dining: ABC Pizza

Because most local diners know ABC Pizza for its wonderful pizza and spaghetti, many have never sampled some of the other delicious dishes available at this family-friendly and exceptionally affordable Mediterranean restaurant. Read our story for a few menu choices that might tempt your tastebuds for your next visit.

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LETTER FROM THE

PUBLISHER DeDe and I are thankful to live in a town that cherishes American values and traditions. And like your family, ours enjoyed celebrating the nation’s freedom this month. Along with appreciation for independence, patriotic ideals are still alive and well in the United States of America. Despite threats of terrorism and unwarranted attacks, our country’s citizens celebrated the Fourth of July with family gatherings, cookouts, and fireworks. We celebrated passing the torch of patriotism to our next generations, just as others have done for us. We are in the middle of a wonderful summer, indeed. Since the recent restart of Focus TV, our reporter Edna Ruiz has enjoyed adding your faces and voices to the weekly programs. We hope you’ll encourage her with comments and fresh story ideas about community folks and events. In case you’ve missed the latest, visit focusplantcity.com and view through Focus TV links. Please don’t miss reading about the fundraiser scheduled for July 30 for strawberry farmer Joey Gude as he battles cancer. Your attendance and every single BBQ dinner purchased or donation offered will help support the generous father of three, his wife Lindsey and their daughters Faith, Ashlyn, and baby Piper. Let’s pay it forward, Plant City! Other good news articles include those about PCPD Officer Priscila Clark, young songstress Karlea Lynne, summer camps at the YMCA and Lots of Hugs Learning Center, the Abbey Ridge Live performance studio, the Plant City Kiwanis Club’s 95th anniversary, and our annual Back-toSchool feature. Your feedback on Facebook helps us showcase the stories you love. Before our next issue, the students, teachers, and school staffers will have begun the 2016-2017 academic year. So for what’s left of this refreshing summer slowdown, rack up the memories and encourage everyone to shop local. Oh, and share those photos, too!

Warmest Regards, 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

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.

Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990

Publisher Mike Floyd mike@floydpublications.com

www.focusplantcity.com

Sales Dede Floyd dede@floydpublications.com

Standards of accuracy: The goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-warming stories that are accurate from the start. Being human, however, we sometimes make mistakes. Please forgive us.

Managing Editor Cheryl Johnston cjohnston@floydpublications.com

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) 7078783 or e-mail editorial@floydpublications.com. The staff will fix the error in a timely manner.

Distribution Tony DeVane

FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants and many local venues. Advertisers warrant and represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. Focus Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made

Art Director Anthony Sassano asassano@floydpublications.com

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Protection for your loved ones comes in many forms. When you purchase a life insurance policy from Auto-Owners Insurance, you can rest easy knowing youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re protecting the ones you love. Talk to your local independent agent representing Auto-Owners Insurance about the life insurance options available.

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Jodi Stevens was awarded as Rotarian of the Year by outgoing President Jeremy Burris at the Plant City club’s annual installation banquet. Members honored the Chair for the 2015 Dancing With The Locals fundraiser a standing ovation. “Jodi is a shining example of what a Rotarian should be and lives by the Service Above Self mantra.” said Burris.

On June 26, 2016 at Life Christian University in Plant City, 28 students earned degrees ranging from Associates to Masters in Theology and Counseling. This was the school’s largest graduating class to date. Enrollment is open now for the semester beginning in September. The Life Family Church will also have 22 members on its upcoming missionstrip to San Pedro Sula in Honduras, so graduates can put into practice what they’ve learned at LCU.

The Marion Cook “Cookie” Smith Reading/Conference Room at the Bruton Memorial Library had an official ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, June 30, 2016. Cookie Smith and members of her family were joined by an enthusiastic group of supporters from the community to celebrate the opening of the room and her 50 years of service. Among attendees were members of The Bruton Memorial Library Board, City Commissioners, Friends of the Library, Representatives of the Chamber of Commerce and members of the Plant City Woman’s Club.

At the Rotary Club of Plant City’s annual installation banquet, incoming President, Charles Harris, received congratulations from outgoing President, Jeremy Burris. President Burris was credited with leading the club this past fiscal year in one of its best fundraising years ever, gathering over $100,000 through two events: Dancing With The Locals and the Wild Game Dinner.

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Mark Persails and his Florida Baseball Heaven organization have given big league opportunities to young baseball players for the past eight years. On June 26, 2016, the FBH 9U team won the Global Sports Alliance World Series tournament in Clearwater, Florida with a 6-1 record. Persails credited young ball players for their “will to win and love for the game.” Team members include: Xavier Glover, Ben Bikar, Joe Troupe, Paul Overstreet, BJ Overstreet, Brisen Tweedy, Casen Smith, James Gray, Coby Anker, Ethan Abdoney, Easton Bearch, and Austin Dadey.

The Photo Archives and History Center has received an additional donation of Panky Snow’s papers, photos, and general memorabilia. Once processed, they will be available for viewing in the History Center

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Mr. David Wolf, president of Kiwanis Club of Plant City, March of 2015

PLANT CITY KIWANIS CLUB

Hotel Plant opened in 1926, it was said that many of the 300 hotel stockholders belonged to one or both of these organizations. Another Kiwanis-led effort in 1926 was a charter change providing for a Commission-Manager form of government effective in 1927. Plant City had been re-chartered several times since 1885, but this new effort was in the footsteps of a reform movement to make government more effective and efficient. It passed with the support of both the Chamber of Commerce and the Kiwanis Club, along with editorials from The Courier. When the Lions Club started the movement to hold a festival to celebrate the area’s prominent crop--the strawberry–the Kiwanis Club joined in support, along with the proud community. The Florida Strawberry Festival was inaugurated in March 1930. Over the past 95 years the Kiwanis Club has led many efforts, provided many services, and has helped many of our community’s youth. This includes playground support, James Ranch, Drug Alert Program, Christmas Party for Headstart children, special support for South Florida Baptist Hospital,

partnering with the Florida Strawberry Festival, Special Olympics, Panos Center, Stepping Stone Farm, Terrific Kids, Bring Up your Grades program, Boys and Girls Clubs, Little League, Turkey Walk, Spiritual Aims Committee, Every Child a Swimmer, Children’s Health Fair and Immunization, Project Greenhouse, Toddlers’ Corner at the Bruton Memorial Library, and more -- much more, Today, Kiwanis’s focus is still on children. Programs and services include Christmas for Angels, Apples for Teachers, Stuff the Bus, which provides school supplies for hundreds of children, Terrific Kid, Read Around the World, Key Clubs, and Builders Clubs. For information about membership, contact any Kiwanis Club member or the Plant City Photo Archives at 813.754.1578 or email gil@ plantcityphotoarchives.org. Note: In 1987, Kiwanis was one of the first clubs to invite women to become regular members. The first to join was Betty June Barker, an educator, first female city commissioner, and long-time pianist for the Kiwanis Club.

CELEBRATES 95 YEARS OF SERVICE BY GIL GOTT

he Kiwanis Club of Plant City celebrated its 95th anniversary on July 12, 2016 with a dinner gathering at the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center. And oh, the memories they shared. The meeting list of June 1921 reads like a list of who’s who in the Plant City. It was then that 50 active businessmen met to discuss forming a civic club to serve citizens of the greater Plant City areas. Kiwanis Clubs, first formed in 1915, soon changed from a business-to-business club to a service club. That transition appealed to the Plant City group and the Kiwanis Club of Plant City was officially born on July 6, 1921, with Dr. John Walter Alsobrook serving as the first

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President. Since that time, those 95 years have been packed with a great deal of activity. Shortly after its formation, local Kiwanis members voted in August 1924 to revive the then defunct Board of Trade. William E. Lee, Plant City Mayor and second Kiwanis President, called a meeting to organize it. The leaders of that effort were almost all Kiwanis members – and they signed up 492 members for what became the East Hillsborough County Chamber of Commerce. The new chamber’s President, first Vice-President, second Vice-President, and Treasurer were all Kiwanis members. Following that lead, the Kiwanis– Chamber coalition successfully pushed for a new hotel downtown. When the

Mr. W.E. Lee, Plant City’s mayor from 1920-1925 and president of Kiwanis Club of Plant City in 1922

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L too, with arts and crafts, sports and trips to places such as Lowry Park, Tampa Bay Rays game and water park. “We’re not here to babysit them. We want them to learn too, but we also want to give them ways to enjoy themselves,” she said. Meals are an important part of Lots of Hugs, she said. “Some kids that eat here don’t eat again until they arrive here the next day,” she said. “It makes me feel good inside that we’ve done something good.” Moody couldn’t offer such low tuition without donations from businesses, civic clubs and nonprofits. Major sponsors include Unity in the Community, $35,000, Lazydays Employee Foundation, $5,000, Noonday Rotary Club, $2,500,

Rooms To Go Foundation, $1,000 and C&S Wholesale Grocery, $1,000. Partners include Publix, Kiwanis Club of Plant City, First Presbyterian Church’s Stick Ministry, Children’s Home of Tampa, Princess Becky Buckle Up Ministry of Brandon; Plant City Police Department, CenterState Bank, Stingray Chevrolet, Winn-Dixie and Feltons. Marsha Passmore, board chairwoman of Unity in the Community, said the nonprofit that helps Plant City’s needy considers the donation an investment in the future of youngsters. “All of it is such a wonderful learning opportunity for them,” she said. “I was there for the first day and orientation and the kids were so excited. Their enthusiasm was just amazing.”

Jasmine Pope, who teaches reading at the Lots of Hugs Learning Center, helps TyQuez Green with his work. The learning center, in its sixth year, has nearly 100 students ages 5 to 12.

LOTS OF HUGS LEARNING CENTER

SUMMER DAY CAMP OFFERS EDUCATION AS WELL AS FUN BY DAVE NICHOLSON

ix-year-old Staushaun Alonzo doesn’t hesitate when asked about his favorite part of the Lots of Hugs Learning Center. “I like the field trips. We’re going to Legoland,” he said with a smile. Staushaun is among nearly 100 youngsters spending the summer at the day camp with a curriculum that includes reading and other school skills help. Longtime supporter and Stingray Chevrolet owner Steve Hurley is impressed with Lots of Hugs Director Sharon Moody’s philosophy that kids need more than fun and games. “They help youngsters keep up with their education during the summer so they’re ready for the next grade,” said Hurley, a board member of Unity in the Community, one of the camp’s largest supporters.

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The $75 cost per child covers the entire summer and includes two meals and a snack each day, plus field trips, educational instruction, stories and songs from Scripture. Moody founded Lots of Love six years ago after seeing a need. “We needed to give parents a safe place to send their children where they could continue to learn during the summer,” she said. “Some of them would be spending time on the streets if they weren’t here.” The instructors include Jasmine Pope, who works as a substitute teacher during the school year. She teaches reading and is now in her third year at Lots of Hugs. “I just like the kids and the fact they are so eager to learn,” she said. While Lots of Hugs emphasizes learning, Moody makes sure they have fun

Staushaun Alonzo and Norris Buckley work on crafts at the Lots of Hugs Learning Center, a summer camp that runs through Aug. 3 at Mount Moriah Baptist Church.

Sharon Moody founded the Lots of Hugs Learning Center to help give children 5 to 12 a safe place to go in the summer.

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CareFest invites locals to help with projects in our community that involve yardwork, carpentry, painting and minor home repairs on September 24.

CAREFEST® 2016 NEEDS VOLUNTEERS AND PROJECT SUBMISSIONS IMPACT PLANT CITY BY CHERYL JOHNSTON

he annual CareFest® event in Plant City, scheduled for September 24, 2016, has need of volunteers and project suggestions to which those kindhearted workers can lend a helping hand. Planning meetings have been underway since March. CareFest® involvement is a tangible way to express appreciation and concern for our neighbors through planned acts of kindness. Ways to help include: submitting a project need; adopting a project and volunteering to help, donate tools or products, and become a financial sponsor for this year’s one-day outreach. This year’s Christ-centered community service day is themed Party Time, based on Revelation 19:8 in Scripture. Annually, approximately 6,000 volunteers and over 150 partners from area businesses, churches, and other non-profits are involved in CareFest®. Norman Blanton, Area Coordinator of CareFest® Plant City and CareFest®. SouthShore, invites locals to join thousands of volunteers to do yardwork, painting, carpentry, and minor home repairs in our community and beyond. For the past 14 years, Somebody Cares Tampa Bay has mobilized local citizens. churches, community agencies and businesses for its CareFest® projects day to “do all the good we can by all the means

we can.” The program unites cities with the purpose of demonstrating God’s love in practical ways to those in need. Local government offices, churches and ministries help to identify 4-6 hour projects for homeowners deserving of help through this cause. These might include senior adults, the disabled, Veterans, those with families in crisis or on a very limited fixed income. Evaluators then assess the needs, submit projects for approval, and obtain the Homeowner’s Release for work to be accomplished. After a great morning and afternoon of work to complete the tasks, volunteers and recipients of the help gather to recognize and celebrate their accomplishments with a meal and meaningful conversations. In addition, the “Care Cup” trophy will be awarded to the location with the most volunteers. These celebrations also provide important opportunities for sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ and for area churches to connect with the general community and people in need. Businesses, civic organizations, churches, ministries and individuals are encouraged to call Norm Blanton at (813) 326-0749 or e-mail norm.blanton@verizon.net. For additional information and to view a video clip, please visit www.carefestusa.com or phone 727-536-2273.

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thing and called Grandma. Being the kind person she is, Estelle agreed to adopt the kitty. She named him “Oscar” and often referred to him as “Dr. Oscar.” since he had been to the university. That description fit since he is probably the smartest cat I’ve ever seen. Estelle was happy with her little family and took pride in giving them the best care possible. She also worked relentlessly in her garden. In order to compensate for her disability, it was necessary to garden while riding her scooter. This worked well – at least most of the time. One time, however, she attempted to pull weeds and at the same accidentally activated the scooter. She wound up in the middle of a rock garden. It didn’t rattle Estelle at all. She simply whipped out her cell phone and called for help. She is unstoppable. Sadness struck on April 10 when little Cookie passed away. Estelle was somewhat prepared for this time since

Typically herbivores, the Sandhill Cranes of Florida seem fearless as they explore individual yards, neighborhoods, and golf courses.

MY “EVER-READY” FRIEND ESTELLE ROWELL BY LOUISE STUDSTILL

’m sure everyone on the planet has seen the Eveready TV commercial. You know, the one where this bunny rabbit never runs out of energy. While playing his little drum, he just keeps going and going. I’d like to tell you about my friend who could put that silly rabbit to shame. Estelle Rowell and I became friends many years ago when she and her family moved to our area from Tampa. Since she had three daughters who grew up with my two sons, we had many interesting times together as we monitored our kid’s activities. For many years Estelle has been affected by neuropathy, which has

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greatly affected her feet and ability to walk. Now this problem just didn’t fit into my friend’s busy life style so she set about dealing with it. First of all, Estelle cared many years for a sick husband. After his passing she soon adopted an adorable little dachshund puppy that she named Cookie (Cookie Crumb would have been more suitable, since she was so tiny). Cookie was the perfect little pet, living in a wonderful home. One day, as Estelle’s grandson drove onto the USF campus, he saw a little yellow kitten being thrown from the window of the moving car ahead. You guessed it. He quickly rescued the little

Cookie was about 16 years-old. Even so, she was sad and so was Oscar. As the days passed, however, they both dealt with the loss and all seemed to be well. Then something interesting happened. Her family increased again. She called me recently, giggling like a little kid. “Guess what I have in my yard!” she said excitedly. Instantly I imagined a stray puppy, kitten or little bunny (not the TV type). “I have a mama and papa Sandhill Crane and two baby cranes!” she squealed. She described how they looked through her windows and seemed to want to come in. Now Estelle has a new interest -finding the right food and making her new family additions as comfortable as “Oscar” is. All I can say is that these are some blessed birds. Estelle is the most amazing lady I know. I almost envy all these critters. Sometimes I wonder if I could disguise myself and move in, too.

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Joey Gude holds his new daughter, Piper, on Father’s Day while surrounded (L-R) by wife Lindsey and daughters Faith and Ashlyn,

PLEASE HELP STRAWBERRY FARMER JOEY GUDE LET’S PAY IT FORWARD BY CHERYL JOHNSTON

lthough the humble strawberry farmer would be reluctant to ask, Joey Gude and his family could use our community’s help—big time! The 46-year-old owner of Brandon Farms is fighting for his life. Five brain tumors on the right side have necessitated full-time care and prevent his earning the family’s income. Since a biopsy on May 25 and diagnosis of Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM), the father of three has been receiving chemotherapy seven times

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weekly at home and radiation five times weekly at Moffitt Cancer Center. But in the midst of this radical life change and deep pain, a beautiful gift has arrived. The day following his biopsy. Joey’s wife of three years, Lindsey, gave birth to their beautiful and healthy daughter, Piper. Outstanding care provided at both BRH and Moffitt has amazed the family. “Brandon Regional Hospital has been so compassionate,” offered Lindsey’s mother, Sheila Pope. “They moved Joey from his

original room on another floor to a room next to Lindsey’s in the mother/baby area.” Pope, a nurse, has taken an extended leave of absence so she can help. “I couldn’t do this without Mom,” admitted Lindsey. Many, including Joey’s older daughters, Faith, 19, and Ashlyn, 16, are believing God for a miracle. In 2010 the girls lost their 37-year-old mother, Trenda Jones Gude, within one month after her lung cancer diagnosis.

A sign in their home encourages: “There’s always something to be thankful for.” Surrounded by the love of their “First Free Baptist Church family and so many other amazing people,” Lindsey holds fast to hope. “Even though we’ve been asking God hard questions and wondering ‘why’, our faith is good.” Through tears she asked, “But why would He give us our baby girl and Joey’s cancer at the same time?” Then she continued, “Sometimes I don’t understand His ways, but we’re thankful we serve a God who holds our tomorrows. That’s the one thing we know for sure.” Joey’s younger brother Steve has been a daily mainstay for hospital trips, physical caregiving, and encouragement. The Plant City High School graduates and outdoorsmen normally enjoy hunting, fishing and beaching. “But today,” Steve shared, “I’m thankful for every day I can talk to him and love him.” Gude is known for his joy and generosity, especially with children and the Florida Strawberry Festival’s FFA activities. Lindsey added, “Joey has the biggest heart in the world.” Due to an insurance coverage glitch in May when the diagnosis came, that month’s hospital and doctor costs, now exceeding $156,000, fall on the family’s shoulders. Friends have established a GoFundMe account for Joey and Lindsey Gude at https://www.gofundme. com/26q78nyn. Additionally, ALL are invited to the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds on July 30 for a BBQ fundraiser, organized by Mike Perry, Dennis Carlton, Jr., Jimmy Aldridge, Jr., and Kevin Pope. Your $12 dinner tickets and silent auction bids will benefit the cause. WQYK Radio has donated a signed Luke Bryan guitar, and others are encouraged to provide auction prizes as well. Until then, let’s all help with gift cards, checks, or cash for food, utility bills, mortgage payment, gasoline, etc. Please mail those to Lindsey Gude at 14718 Sydney Road, Dover FL 33527. To offer assistance, contact Mike Perry at 813-267-6383. Every cent and action will matter.

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Giselle Gutierrez said her favorite part of performing the National Anthem was to “sing to the people who sacrificed their lives.”

4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS IN PLANT CITY BY EDNA RUIZ

Platinum Bank® is pleased to introduce Lea M. Sacco, senior vice president and business development officer. 26

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ed, white and blue filled the Plant City Stadium on Monday night as thousands showed up to celebrate the Fourth of July. The annual Fourth of July Celebration, hosted by Plant City’s Recreation and Parks Department, was sponsored by numerous local businesses and organizations. Food, games, and entertainment for the whole family were all part of the fun. Kids enjoyed having their faces painted, climbing a rock wall, jumping in bouncy houses and even bungee jumping. Vendors and concession stands were also available throughout the stadium complex. Daniel Sprouse Band and Double Barrel Band performed and had crowds singing along. Throughout the night people participated in a 50-50 drawing which helped offset the City of Plant City’s event costs. By the end of the night, Leroy Garcia was the lucky winner. Giselle Gutierrez, who sang the National Anthem, said her favorite part about singing that night was to “sing to the people who sacrificed their lives.” After the National Anthem, the stadium lights were turned off and the main event began. Fireworks lit up the Plant City sky and brought smiles to people’s faces. The 20-minute show left people in awe. To some, it was their first time attending the celebration. But to many, it has become a tradition. Doralinda Espinoza came with her

family Monday night to enjoy a night of “fun” like they do every year. “This is a family tradition. We come every Fourth of July,” Espinoza said. “It was awesome!” Special Thanks to our 2016 Plant City Fourth of July Celebration Sponsors -Florida Strawberry Festival -Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce -City of Plant City, Stingray Chevrolet -Mayfair Games -Global Sports Alliance -Duke’s Brewhouse -Highland Packaging Solutions -Jarrett-Scott Ford -Haught Funeral Home -American Legion Post 26 -Plant City Times & Observer -Plant City Noon Rotary Club -W.K. McClendon Oil -Lowes Build and Grow Clinics -Happy Kids Inflatables -Deese Scrubs -Parkesdale Market -Brewington’s Towing -Toufayan Bakeries -Gordon Food Service Marketplace -Culligan Water, Miller Pro Sound -I-4 Power -O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Grill -City of Tampa Special Events Office and the Friends of Recreation & Parks.

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FOCUS MAGA ZINE PL ANT CIT Y JULY 2016

At a fundraising concert at Keel and Curley Winery, Karlea Lynne’ BoswellEdwards, left, thanks Carmen Griffin, right, jazz band director at Blake School of the Arts, for being instrumental in helping further her singing career.

even college applications cost money, something scarce in her family, so she applied only to Berklee. She saves the money she earns singing, scouts out scholarships, established the www.gofundme.com/ fv4m47pg page, is willing to take out loans if necessary and recently performed a fundraising concert with Hott Mess Band and saxophonist Kyle Schroeder at Keel and Curley Winery. The emcee was local jazz-legend Belinda Womack-Christy. “Karlea’s an old soul,” said WomackChristy. “She’s going to be a talent the world is going to know, because she’s got the heart, mind and support and she’s got such amazing faith.” Karlea’s mother, Karla King, a Bealsville resident for 27 years, asked area businesses to donate silent-auction items for the concert. Some whom she approached were miffed that they hadn’t heard about Karlea before.

“So we really wanted to do something in Plant City,” said King. “She’s Plant City’s baby, but she’s been singing in Tampa because she went to school there.” Voice-teacher Sherry Fagan Martin of Brandon, who coached Karlea in 2015, called her a talented young woman who could become one of the greats in jazz, Broadway, opera or film. Berklee vocal professor Maggie Scott offered Karlea some advice: “Stay true to yourself. If you know you want to sing jazz, don’t let anyone tell you something different.” “I sing jazz,” said Karlea. “This is what I do and what I’m good at. I’m classically trained. I very well can sing [Beyoncé music], but I’m not going to jeopardize my voice or any of my morals to be in an industry I don’t want to be in. You can be successful and do jazz music.” King believes her daughter will make it. “One day the world’s going to know her name for the gift that God has given her,” she said.

KARLEA LYNNE’

PLANT CITY’S YOUNG JAZZ SINGER

BY BARBARA ROUTEN | PHOTOS BY BARBARA ROUTEN, EVAN MORGAN AND COURTESY OF KARLEA LYNNE’ BOSWELL-EDWARDS

et used to hearing about Karlea Lynne’ Boswell-Edwards, the 18-year-old jazz singer from Bealsville, who is striving to fulfill her dream of a musical career. Her next step is Berklee College of Music, which awarded her a $20,000 partial, four-year-renewable scholarship (estimated total yearly cost is about $65,000) and full tuition to the Berklee 2016 summer performance program. She won the first-ever solo jazzvocalist competition at the 48th-annual Berklee High School Jazz Festival in February, where she sang to a 5,000-member audience, her largest yet. Karlea, a 2016 Blake graduate with a 4.18 GPA, was an aspiring singing-actress and valedictorian-hopeful at Blake School of the Arts. But in December 2014 her father,

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Louis Anthony Boswell, died. It hit her hard. “I was bullied a lot, I kept secluded and didn’t talk to anybody,” she said. Blake jazz-band teacher Carmen Griffin, “Ms. G,” saw and reached out. “She was, like, ‘Come on, try singing with the big band,’” said Karlea. “She invited me to perform with them at school board events, which led to other gigs and it became like a full time job.” “Ms. G taught me everything I needed to know. She’s brought me very far in a short amount of time,” she said. “It’s one thing to be a singer. She’s made me into a musician. Singers have to earn instrumentalists’ respect and show that you’re not dumb, you know theory. I can be an instrument, too. I can scat the same as they can solo.” Karlea wants to learn more, but

Karlea Lynne’ Boswell-Edwards sings with the Hott Mess Band at a fundraising concert in her honor at Keel and Curley Winery, which was decorated in her favorite color, red

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The Florida State Fair inducted Officer Priscilla Clark into its Hispanic Hall of Fame. The honor recognizes individuals who have distinguished themselves by improving their communities.

PCPD OFFICER PRISCILLA CLARK CRIME PREVENTION AND COMMUNITY OUTREACH

BY DAVE NICHOLSON | PHOTOS BY DAVE NICHOLSON & COURTESY OF PLANT CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT

reddy Barton, who heads an agency that seeks to curb violence and otherwise improve neighborhoods, said his job would be much more difficult without police Officer Priscilla Clark. Clark, whose duties include community outreach and crime prevention, has been instrumental in Hillsborough Safe and Sound’s efforts to encourage youngsters to stay in school

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and stay away from illegal drugs, Barton said. “She has a way of bringing people together,” he said. “When we need contacts in the community, we turn to her. She knows just who we should see. “There can be a mistrust of police, but she helps people see that law enforcement is a solution to the problem.” Clark, a 4 ½-year veteran of the

Plant City Police Department, is one of its most high-profile officers. Her beat as the community redevelopment area officer includes downtown, public housing projects and more. She works with downtown merchants, presents crime prevention seminars and helps oversee the daily feedings for the needy at the Plant City Winter Visitor Center. She often parks her police cruiser and

walks her beat so she can stay in touch with those she serves. “I’m very proud and fortunate to be working in the community and for Plant City police,” she said. “I’m as happy serving the citizens now as I was when I first took this position. The bond and relationship I’ve created with the community has been unmeasurable.” Clark’s work includes providing

Safe and Sound Hillsborough Director Freddy Barton said Officer Priscilla Clark has been instrumental in helping his agency curb violence and help local neighborhoods.

Plant City police Officer Priscilla Clark talks with city Recreation and Parks Department Program Manager Deborah Haldane and Julie Wilson outside the Winter Visitor Center.

security at downtown’s special events, such as the monthly Strawberry Classic Car Show and the quarterly Bike Fest motorcycle shows. “Anything that goes on downtown, I’m probably involved in,” she said. She also has a soft heart for the needy. William Gill, who has lived in Plant City more than 50 years, said she helped find him shoes when his old ones wore out. “The Plant City Police Department is the best there is, and Officer Clark is one of their best officers,” Gill said last month when he attended one of the daily feedings at the visitor center. Clark said she puts merchants, churches and nonprofits that want to help the needy in touch with each other. Clark, born into a farming family in California, decided to make law enforcement her life’s work after joining the Browley Police Department’s Explorer post as a high school student. The Explorers helped the department’s

officers with such duties as directing traffic at special events. Her first law enforcement job was as a dispatcher for the Winter Haven Police Department, followed by her first job on the streets as a sworn officer for the Lake Wales Police Department. She worked as an investigator with the Florida Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco for 10 years before joining the Plant City Police Department in 2012. She and her husband Dean have five children, two grandsons and a granddaughter. Clark, who is in her 40s and has 15 years in law enforcement, started in her current role in 2014. She enjoys her role, including her personal favorite duty, presenting crime prevention programs to youngsters. “I get to do a little bit of everything but working with kids is the best,” she said. “Every day just flies by.” Darcy Stottlemeyer, owner of All a

Officer Priscilla Clark with Jimmie Yarbrough, Ellany Noriega and Rhonda Locker, who helped feed the needy recently at the Winter Visitor Center. Local churches take turns handing out food at the daily feedings and Clark often drops by to watch over the meals. The trio were representing Crossroads Church.

Bloom Florist at 116 N. Collins St., said Clark stops in downtown shops from time to time, just to check in and to offer crime prevention tips. “She’s really good at what she does and is always friendly,” she said. “I know we all feel safer knowing she’s on patrol.” Last year, Clark’s efforts earned her a spot on the Florida State Fair’s Hispanic Wall of Fame, an honor that recognizes “individuals of diverse ethnic and racial origin who have made a significant contribution to communities in Florida.”

Clark said the residents can help her and the police department in general by using the philosophy, “if you see something, say something.” “Just be aware of your surroundings in different situations,” she said. “If you see something suspicious call the police or call the sheriff ’s office. It’s better to be safe and take preventative measures. We’d rather you call and we find out it’s nothing than to wait and find out it was something. Always make that call.”

HOW YOU CAN HELP Police Officer Priscilla Clark is available for crime prevention seminars at schools, churches and other groups. She also acts as a liaison with churches and nonprofits that want to help the needy. Contact her at the Plant City Police Department, (813) 757-9200.

FOCUS MAGA ZINE PL ANT CIT Y JULY 2016

Winning team #3 included Hugh Gramling, Terry Ballard, Jack Gibbs with trophy cup, and Jim Glaros.

2ND ANNUAL HISTORY TRIVIA CHALLENGE DRAWS COMMUNITY LEADERS

chose the wrong location for the 1927 Strawberry Investigation Laboratory, which was established in Springhead and not Dover. Team 3, led by its Captain, Jack Gibbs, and including Terry Ballard, Hugh Gramling, and Jim Glaros emerged victorious to the applause of excited fans. Again this year, the event’s signature sponsor was Edwena Haney and Hopewell Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens. In addition to the Photo Archives and Plant City Entertainment, other sponsors included the Plant City Times & Observer, On-Site Accounting, All-A-Bloom Florist and Gifts, Parkesdale Market, Cecil and Helen Everidge, Gail Lyons, Dodie White, Ed Bozeman, Gil Gott, and Neumeister’s Candy Shoppe. The program’s MC was Gil Gott; program coordinator- Dodie White; acting as Vanna White- Kim Hamilton; Timer- Bill Thomas; Judges were Myrle Henry, Cecil Everidge, and David Bailey; Tellers were Karen Wyckoff, Polly Wiggins, and Amanda Long; tand Rob Yoho was the photographer. Volunteers also included Maribeth Mobley, Gwendolyn Thomas, Selinda Walden, Jim & Sandy Black, and Ed Bozeman. For information about upcoming Friends of the Library programs, call Gil Gott at the Photo Archives 813.754.1578.

BY GIL GOTT

he second annual Friends of the Bruton Memorial Library History Trivia Challenge drew many of Plant City’s community leaders, both on the stage and in the audience. The event held on May 26, 2016 at the Plant City Entertainment facility is a free program presented by the FBML and produced by the Photo Archives, along with numerous volunteers. Based on the popular Jeopardy TV quiz show, the History Trivia Challenge features four teams of four community leaders each, who are challenged to answer questions about the greater Plant City area’s history. Questions listed under four categories – People, Events, Businesses, and Places – are valued at 100, 200, 300, 400, or 500 points. The teams select the category and value, then try to

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answer the subsequent question. The fun begins when players struggle to answer the sometimes humorous questions. Should they miss the answer, the judges joyfully honk the bicycle horn to announce their mistake. Teams this year consisted of (1) Gail Lyons, Al Berry, Marsha Passmore, and Lee Williams; (2) Felix Haynes, David Miller, Steve Sparkman, and Charlie White; (3) Jack Gibbs, Terry Ballard, Hugh Gramling, and Jim Glaros; and (4) Michael Cameron, Paul Hetrick, Mac Smith, and John Haney. After five rounds of questions teams 3 and 4 were tied for the lead and then began the tie-breaker rounds. Team 4 finally heard the bike horn and the cowbell signifying their fate as they

Timer is Bill Thomas, Judges are David M. Bailey, Myrle Henry, and Cecil Everidge.

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Store owners Blanca and Humberto Rodriguez have a heart to help the homeless and those in need.

BOOKSTORE SHARES GRACE IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN

owns a home, too. “Only God could have provided what we now have,” Blanca shared. “We know we’re to use it for others,” she added. The couple’s ultimate goal is to open a homeless shelter here. They contribute finances, clothing, food, transportation, time and energy when they learn of a need, often from Community Relations Officer Priscilla Clark of the Plant City Police Department. For the last eight years, the family has also volunteered with Metropolitan Ministries in Tampa and assists the St. Petersburg Police Department with their Pinellas Safe Harbor project as well. “Since my grandfather’s death when an inheritance allowed us to buy a home here, our family has all we need,” shared Blanca. “So, we use the bookstore’s income for helping those in need. We have some big-hearted volunteers serving, too. The store is not about money for us. It’s about paying it forward.” Blanca is also a pastor with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Eckerd College. She’s working toward her Master’s in

Marriage and Family Counseling. Her ministry, Ministerio Voces Angelicales, has been active since its licensing in January 2014. She and Humberto welcome folks to their home for Friday and Sunday services and even baptisms in the pool. The bookstore also serves as a donations drop-off point for gently used clothing, toiletry items, blankets, and non-perishable food items. These are distributed by the Winter Visitors Center volunteers who serve supper to the hungry who show up each evening. “We love Plant City,” said Blanca. “Everyone is loving and you can be comfortable, walking through town without fear. It really does feel like home.” The service provided by Libreria Cristiana de Jesus to those less fortunate means your shopping local dollars will go above and beyond the normal trade route. They will make a huge difference right here in our community. Store hours are 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. For special orders, dial 813-707-1111.

LIBRERIA CRISTIANA DE JESUS

BY CHERYL JOHNSTON

lant City’s historic downtown has a new Christian bookstore that is so much more than that. Inside the charming red brick interior of Libreria Cristiana de Jesus, shoppers will find shelves stocked with books, CDs, gifts and other ministry items. But the true beauty of this new business at 106 E. Reynolds Street is its backstory, a testimony to God’s compassion and provision. Before Blanca Rodriguez married Humberto Perez, she had experienced homelessness— twice, along with divorce and cancer. At 18, when she moved from Puerto Rico to Florida to learn English, she became ill and needed medication. Her first job, at the

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Checkers Restaurant in Davenport, occupied her daytime hours and offered some stability. But at night, Blanca lived in the orange grove and survived on oranges for the month she was without shelter. She experienced homelessness once more, this time with a daughter who is 10-years-old now. “I promised God if He would help, I would serve Him the rest of my life,” said Blanca. “He woke me up spiritually to the great need of people without homes, and now we just want to do all we can when we learn of a need.” Through a series of miraculous events, the income-tax preparer received inventory for the bookstore and today

The Christian bookstore in historic downtown Plant City offers a wide variety of books and music in English and Spanish, as well as other gift and ministry items.

FOCUS MAGA ZINE PL ANT CIT Y JULY 2016

ey & Cheryl

By Judy Ron

ey & Cheryl

By Judy Ron

Johnston

What brought you to Plant City? My oldest brother, Pete Sciame, moved his family to Plant City and I did a little sister “me too,” though I preferred the fast-paced life in downtown!

SS JOANN SCIAME RO favorite sayings. JoAnn Ross confesses that she is “obsessed with textiles, fabric designs, and historic buildings.” She and her husband, Steve Ross, have lived in downtown Plant City’s historic district for 30 years. Their house was built in 1922 and even with lots of necessary “fixes” inherent with life in an older home, they wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. After losing her software job in early 2014, JoAnn decided to pursue her passion and established her own business, Recover the Love Upholstery, LLC. Her workshop is in a building behind the house. Most work comes through referrals from friends and happy clients, and lately her Facebook page has generated more interest and income. Describe your childhood. I’m a “Florida Girl” through-and-through; having been born in Tampa and lived in several places throughout the state, I spent my formative years in Key Largo and Homestead. Other than putting up with three older brothers picking on me, my childhood was fun and carefree. Back in our day, we rode our horses or walked everywhere without much care for danger. And family life now? Our children are adults, all over 30, with successful careers; three of the four are married and have children. So we’re grandparents.

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What attracted you to the upholstery business? I learned to sew at a young age and have never stopped. Upholstery work is BIG SEWING! Actually, there is a lot more stapling than sewing, but that’s how I got started. I saw project ideas on Pinterest and knew I could do it if I watched enough YouTube videos. “She Thought She Could So She Did” is one of my

Tell us of your concern for military families. Yes, our oldest son and his wife are both Army officers who have been deployed to the “War Zone” many times. Our youngest son is a partially disabled veteran from his tour in Iraq. I think most people who do not have family involved have forgotten all of the men and women who continue to sacrifice and fight for our country. Get involved! “Adopt” the family of a deployed military person. They need you! What do you enjoy about our community? “I love Plant City because even though it’s grown, it’s still a small town. Some people just reside here and others really LIVE here. It’s fun running into people I’ve known for so long. Roots go deep in this community — something that was lacking in my younger life. People in Plant City seem really glad to be here.” Any suggestions for improving life in Plant City? “Be a little more inclusive to those who aren’t wealthy or well-placed. For example, offer more affordable bricks at Veterans Memorial Park for veterans’ families. I’ve been compelled lately to do something community-minded, especially for the less visible folks. I believe in Truth, Justice and the American Way’—for all.”

STEVE MORGAN When he was five, Michigan-born Steve Morgan moved with his family to be near his paternal grandmother. He fell in love with Paula Pugh in his senior year when Turkey Creek and Pinecrest schools were merged with Plant City High School. The 1973 graduates and high school sweethearts married in 1975, which didn’t surprise anyone. His friend Susan Gales shared, “In every yearbook picture, he’s with Paula.” After raising their two children, the Morgans are now enjoying two adorable grandchildren, every chance they get! Tell us about your family, Steve. Paula is a nurse, now with Family Practice. Brian, 35, is a Hillsborough County Sheriff ’s Office corporal, working on his doctorate and teaching nights at Keiser University. His wife Jenny St. Martin Morgan, teaches Robinson Elementary kindergartners. We are Pepaw and Gamaw to their children, Rowen, 3 and Grymes, 8 months. Haley, 28, moved from her hairstylist career in Manhattan to Colorado, where she hopes to open a bed & breakfast in Telluride. Describe your working life? After graduation, I worked five years with the Boilermaker’s Union until it required travel. Then we had a produce company for 15 years, before moving to Steppin’ Stone Farm. I worked there 10 years until my eyesight failed. Paula and I had dreams of a transitional home so graduates could establish themselves. We are still blessed to hear from girls who now have their own families. God ordered a whole set of circumstances that helped us adjust after we lost that job and my eyesight. Since I definitely wanted to remain in ministry, I’ve been doing maintenance work for Plant City Church of God for 13 years now. What caused the eyesight loss? Cone Rod Disease is retina-related and affects my central eyesight, so I’m legally blind.

I can’t drive and Paula, my amazing wife, has been my eyes ever since. She keeps me straight! You’re a huge fan of the Andy Griffith series, right? As a kid, I watched his shows all the time, and still do because they’re such wholesome entertainment. Did you know the stories hit on Bible themes? I can probably quote most lines and describe each episode. I just appreciate the purity of the simple life. In 2010, we traveled with Pastor Greg and Billie Jo Davis to Mt. Airy, North Carolina for the Mayberry Days Parade, which draws about 200,000 people. We rented a convertible so I could really SEE the mountains. A sign described how another convertible was needed to carry two cast members, so Greg and I drove in the parade while our wives followed to take pictures. There is also an annual Mayberry Days festival in September. And a baseball fan, too? Yes, one wall of my man cave is painted like Fenway Park and I have quite a collection of memorabilia such as baseball cards, balls, caps, autographed photos, dishes, souvenirs, etc. Any suggestions about how folks could improve life in Plant City? Go back to the simple days. Quit being so hustle bustle. Take time to stop and visit with people, so they know you care.

Find more People of Plant City on Facebook. Connecting the community one story at a time. facebook.com/peopleofplantcity Find more People of Plant City on Facebook. Connecting the community one story at a time. facebook.com/peopleofplantcity

FOCUS MAGA ZINE PL ANT CIT Y JULY 2016

DID YOU KNOW

The Historic 1907 House Built by Dr. and Mrs. John Walter Alsobrook

MEMORIES OF GROWING UP IN PLANT CITY BY MELYNDA JACKSON HAYES In the April edition we introduced the reader to the great house that Dr. John Walter Alsobrook had constructed on North Evers Street, across from what later became the 1914 Plant City High School. That house has since been moved to Whitehall Street and has been restored. We have been fortunate enough to have located some of the individuals who lived in that house and we will continue the story of the great house by printing some of the poignant memories they have written for this story.

everal months ago, five of the Smith & Jackson cousins gathered at, what was at one time, their shared home they all grew up in. This was the first time we had seen each other in these familiar surroundings in many years, but to us all, it was just like stepping back in time. We had been asked to share any special memories we had while living in this magnificent, yet warm and inviting home. Here are a few of mine. The large, impressive library to the right as you entered the front door, was

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where we cousins discovered, neatly stacked on the built-in bookcases, all of Dr. Alsobrook’s medical books, and we did have a ball looking at those treasures. This was also the room where I waited for my first date with Carl Combs, and where he presented me my Christmas gift of a pearl bracelet a year later. The parlor, on the left of the entry, was special to me because that’s where Aunt Robbie and I learned together, how to play simple hymns from the Baptist Hymnal on her piano.

The dining room will always be remembered as the place where Dada (Mary Jane Jackson) and Bill Parolini had their wedding reception back in the day wedding receptions were much simpler. Aunt Robbie’s kitchen smelled heavenly because she always had something cooking on the stove for her family of five children. This was the room where she taught me how to make biscuits, and reminded me to always leave my fingerprint indention on the top before putting them in the oven. The sun porch was where we did all the rocking of new babies, and where Aunt Robbie promised Nancy Miles and me that she would name her last baby Nancy Melynda if it was a girl. The baby turned out to be a bouncing baby boy and was named Henry Austin Smith after Dr. Edgar Austin, our family doctor.

The Jacksons’ living quarters were on the second floor, where we three sisters (Mary Jane, Melynda, and Sara) shared a bed until until Dada and Bill were married in May of 1957. This was also where all eleven of us shared the only full bathroom which included a bathtub, but I never remember this being a problem! As you can probably tell, most all our memories are good ones, even down to sharing the one partly line telephone. We never had air conditioning, but somehow we survived the humid summers of central Florida with only the use of an attic fan. Times were good then, and we’ll forever be grateful to Uncle Victor and Aunt Robbie for being so unselfish and opening their hearts and their home to our family.

RIBBON CUTTINGS

The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting June 9, 2016 for Gary Dolgin for Hillsborough County Circuit Court Judge, Group 24, at the Plant City Chamber of Commerce. Gary Dolgin is a board certified marital and family law attorney who also practices in the area of criminal defense. Mr. Dolgin has run a successful private practice in Tampa since 1993, and has been practicing for over 25 years. He received his law degree from the University of Florida, College of Law in 1990. The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting June 9, 2016 for Trudie’s Haven at 1404 Holloman Road, Plant City. This private assisted living facility is nestled in our lush and lovely town. Ms. Cherry Hallback’s services and compassion has been recognized by the United Way, and her mission is to give residents the love, care and peace of mind they so rightly deserve. The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting June 21, 2016 for Happy’s Home Centers, located at 1824 James L. Redman Parkway, Plant City. Rick Kale, Co-Owner and Store Manager, said “We really enjoyed the ribbon cutting and the opportunity to meet many of the Plant City Chamber of Commerce members. The Chamber and everyone in town has been very welcoming to us since the first day we opened!” Happy’s Home Centers look forward to getting involved with the community for many years to come. They said a big “Thank You” to Plant City! The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting June 30, 2016 for the dedication of the Marion Cook “Cookie” Smith Reading and Conference Room at the Bruton Memorial Library, located at 302 McLendon Street in Plant City. Many community well-wishers attended this in support of the new beautiful, quiet, addition to our library.

WEDDING FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS!

Isn’t it beautiful? Let’s keep it that way!

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What To Expect This School Year

PRINCIPALS WEIGH IN ON GETTING THE MOST OUT OF SCHOOL by Barbara Routen

School is not like it used to be. Gone are the days of starting each morning with the Lord’s Prayer, focusing exclusively on reading, ’riting and ’rithmetic, building the academic calendar around the strawberry harvest and sanctioning school-based shooting clubs, such as those some of our older locals carried their rifles to each week. Instead, concerns about school shootings, cyberbullying, transgender students’ rights and Common Core standards leave parents and students wondering what awaits them in the 2016-2017 school year.

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Principals of local schools who responded to a FOCUS questionnaire said their top priorities are increasing student safety, student attendance and parental involvement, improving proficiency in not only reading, writing and math but also in the sciences, beefing up available technology for tech classes and raising graduation rates.

CAMPUS SAFETY AND STUDENT RESPECT

Safety for the approximately 630 students at Robinson Elementary School continues to be that school’s most urgent concern. Robinson follows the Hillsborough County Public Schools’ official crisis management plan and will continue “our effective, schoolwide positive behavior system,” said Principal Alicia Wilkerson. At Wilson Elementary School, home to 388 students, all gates are closed and locked at 8 a.m., and during school hours, visitors are allowed to enter and leave only by the English Street mainentry doors. Visitors must be buzzed in by staff and must present identification. “We also have a wonderful school resource deputy assigned to our school to help keep our campus safe for everyone,” said Wilson’s principal, Gina Becker. In addition, Becker

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said, “We ask that parents prepare their child for going to school and interacting with many types of children who might be different from them. Practice scenarios, model and review how to have positive interactions with others using manners, polite and kind words, respect for others and ways to show empathy and understanding.” Cleto Chazares, principal of the 165-student Simmons Career Center and 40-student Simmons Exceptional Student Education Center, said, “We have a good handle on all of these issues [shootings, bullying, religious differences, race relations, sexual orientation and gender-identity issues] because we encourage and monitor respect for all. Our faculty and staff are very visible throughout the day and we take a serious approach with any situation that arises.”

ACADEMIC CALENDAR CHANGES

Wilson’s Principal Becker and Plant City High School’s principal, Susan Sullivan, brought up the simple but vitally important message that a district-wide schedule revision will go into effect this school year. “Changes in the district calendar may cause some issues if families aren’t informed and don’t look closely at dates,” Sullivan said. School will start earlier this year, on Aug. 10, which will cause other adjustments in the yearlong schedule: Testing dates have changed. First semester will end before winter break. The academic year will end May 26, before Memorial Day. For details, bookmark the Hillsborough County Public Schools’ full calendar online at www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/calendar.

GOALS, NEEDS AND WHAT’S NEW

This year, the primary goal of Plant City High School’s faculty and administration is to increase the graduation rate of their 2,266 students and continue to prepare them for life after school, whether they pursue higher education or want to join the workforce immediately. The high school is initiating several changes to help meet that goal, such as launching a new ninth-grade academy to ease the transition for freshmen starting high school. “One of the challenges for many freshmen is understanding the importance of earning good grades their freshmen year,” said Principal Sullivan. “If students start their high school career with a low grade point average, it is difficult to increase it to ensure athletic eligibility and eventually graduation.” For students, especially new ones, full immersion in the high school academic and social culture can be enhanced by getting “involved in our school [through] clubs, athletics or band,” said Sullivan. “We want students and their families to attend school events to foster school spirit.” Plant City High School hired about 20 new teachers for the 2016-2017 school year and added a new technical program in electricity which can earn students industry certification in preparation for an electrical career. The school will enlarge its annual Future Fair, the first of which it hosted in 2015. The event introduces students to area business leaders who share with students about industries and job opportunities in the community and explain what skills are needed for those careers. Simmons Career Center “has become a mini-technical high school with a strong emphasis on academics and a strong inclination for Career and Technical Education (CTE),” said Principal Chazares.

“Our CTE programs are thriving and each year we are consistently graduating more students,” he said. “Our business programs continue to produce a significant number of industry certifications in the areas of Adobe Flash Player, Photoshop and InDesign, and Microsoft Word, Office Specialist, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.” Simmons Career Center has offered a lot of computer-delivered learning in the past; however, they will offer more face-to-face courses this year, “especially for those classes that have a highstakes test at the end,” said Chazares. The more than 800 students at Marshall Middle School can look forward to eightperiod days that will include mentoring opportunities during the lunch-and-learn period. These mentoring sessions will offer even more college and career information to help students plan for the future. Electives--such as band, FFA, culinary arts, Spanish, physical education, and GQ (Gentlemen’s Quest, a club started in 2007 to help at-risk boys by teaching them integrity, empathy, courage, brotherhood, responsibility and respect)--will continue, as will AVID (Advancement via Individual Determination), helping students develop leadership skills for college and the workforce. Use of the positive behavior system will continue. According to Marshall Principal Daphne Blanton, since the school first implemented that program, Marshall has logged fewer disciplinary incidents than were recorded at

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other area middle schools. “I see firsthand how hard our staff works to help all students be successful,” said Blanton. “It’s not always easy: We face challenges every day (disinterested students, district, state and federal mandates, time constraints and a tight budget), yet we love our kids and want to see them be successful.” Robinson Elementary Principal Wilkerson said that academically the focus at her school is on improving literacy and increasing proficiency in reading comprehension, writing, math and science. Even at the elementary-school level, she works to establish a foundation that will lead to graduating students “with a strong character and prepared for college or trade school.” She said the school needs to grow in its ability to give students more access to online learning to enhance instruction and assessment, and she expressed gratitude to the community and school district for their encouragement and support. New at Wilson Elementary School this year will be the addition of a math resource teacher who will provide extra mathematics support for students. And although Wilson has a record of excellent student attendance, one improvement its principal, Becker, expects this year is the lowering of the number of students arriving late to school.

TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL SCHOOL EXPERIENCE

Students and their parents can improve the chances for a good school year at Wilson by something as simple as talking with each other, said Becker. “Engage in meaningful conversation with your child--be an active listener and ask lots of questions!” she said. “Put reading into your daily schedule—whether you carve out a time

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that you both independently read a book or magazine, or you read aloud to your child or your child reads to you. By being involved in reading yourself, you model the importance and value of reading in everyday life.” In a nutshell, as the Wilson Elementary School 2016-2017 theme suggests, take responsibility for your learning experience and Be the Hero of Your Own Story. “Everyone has a strength!” said Becker. “We look forward to highlighting and building upon the unique strengths of each student.” Wilkerson, of Robinson Elementary, said the key to a successful school year for parents and pupils is to “stay actively involved so we can partner with our families and community to offer a rich learning environment as we work together to meet student needs. We [will] continue to offer a positive school culture where we develop lifelong learners.” According to Marshall’s Principal Blanton, a former Marshall student herself, a rewarding school experience depends on each student’s individual determination to work hard to achieve their goals. “We can provide learning opportunities, guide them, encourage them and motivate them, but it’s truly up to them. We (teachers and families) can’t do it for them,” she said. Nevertheless, she said, “Parents and families must provide a support system in order for our kids to be successful. Talk with them about what they are learning in school, take a few minutes to look over the work they are doing, establish a set time and location for them to complete their homework, review grades regularly on the district’s Edsby site, ensure they attend school regularly so they don’t miss instruction opportunities and be a cheerleader for their learning and behavior successes!”

In both Simmons Career Center and Simmons Exceptional Student Education Center this year, Principal Chazares wants to improve students’ attendance and parental involvement. He encourages parents to play a part in their students’ success “either via volunteer work, communicating with the teachers at school or being part of the school advisory council or school improvement plan. Parents and families need to show that their child’s education is important to them,” he said. Plant City High School’s Principal Sullivan said she expects her entire Raiders team--students, families, faculty and staff--“to be competitive in everything we do from academics to electives to extracurricular activities to community service. We want students to be connected to our school and to this community! We want to encourage parent support so that as a team we can ensure student success!”

ABOUT HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Hillsborough County Public Schools is the eighth largest United States school district and the largest employer in Hillsborough County, with more than 25,000 employees, about 212,000 students and more than 270 school sites (about 20 of which are in the Plant City area). Public schools in Hillsborough County provide a variety of curriculums, such as International Baccalaureate, career and technical education, magnet, Advanced Placement and dual

enrollment programs. All of these are offered in and around Plant City, sprinkled across many campuses. The school board has devised a strategic five-year plan for 2015-2020, available online at www.sdhc.k12.fl.us/doc/list/2015-2020strategic-plan/view-plan/140-1046/. The plan includes this vision statement: “preparing students for life: graduation: postsecondary/workforce/Life!” and this mission statement: “To provide an education and the supports that enable each student to excel as a successful and responsible citizen. Our values: Proactive, relational, integrity, safety, motivation.” The core of the plan comprises four strategic priorities: “1. Increase graduation rates, 2. Communicating with stakeholders, 3. Building strong culture and relationships and 4. Foundation of financial stewardship.” According to the Hillsborough County Public Schools’ strategic plan document, some of the elements that feed into achieving these goals are graduation rates, attendance, behavior, digital learning, teacher and leader effectiveness, professional development and diversity, communication, family and community engagement, character development and school safety and security. Our local school leaders’ plans address these challenges. School in the year 2016 may not be the same today as we remember it. However, as has always been true, with the help of a community-comprising families, educators, mentors, business people, agriculturalists, clergy and even politicians—it can be fertile ground for raising good citizens. Plant City is the kind of diverse and caring place that, along with involved parents, can nurture and encourage local youth to work hard and become productive, hopeful, well-educated, well-prepared adults who respect others, regardless of their differences.

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Meet The Principals GINA BECKER

ALAN BLACK

SHERRI BLACK

DAPHNE BLANTON

PAM BOWDEN Durant High School

Strawberry Crest High School

Simmons Career Center

DORA MADISON

JENNIFER MCCRYSTAL

ANN RUSHING

Wilson Elementary School

Trapnell Elementary School

Cork Elementary School

Marshall Middle School

TRACI DURRANCE

KAYLA FORCUCCI

JANINE HALL

FREDDA JOHNSON

Dover Elementary School

Tomlin Middle School

Knights Elementary School

Turkey Creek Middle School

Jackson Elementary School

DAVID BROWN

Bryan Plant City Elementary School

CLETO CHAZARES

Springhead Elementary School

NO PHOTO AVAILABLE

SUSAN SULLIVAN Plant City High School

JENNIFER WEST

Lincoln Elementary Magnet School

ALICIA WILKERSON

Robinson Elementary School

DINA WYATT

Walden Lake Elementary School

DONNA IPPOLITO

Burney Elementary School

SCHOOL POPULATION INFORMATION at end of 2015-2016 School Year

(Information provided by Tanya Arja, External Communications Manager for Hillsborough County Public Schools)

Bryan Elementary Burney Elementary Cork Elementary Dover Elementary Durant High School Jackson Elementary Knights Elementary 48

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798 331 709 674 2,342 526 797

Lincoln Elementary Marshall Middle School Plant City High School Robinson Elementary Simmons Career Center Simmons ESE Center Springhead Elementary

422 809 2,266 628 165 40 922

Strawberry Crest High School Tomlin Middle School Trapnell Elementary Turkey Creek Middle School Walden Lake Elementary Wilson Elementary

2,199 1,562 562 974 907 388

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DARK

HORSE by Edna Ruiz

WHEN MOST HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES WERE PREPARING TO START COLLEGE, MICHAEL WILSON WAS PREPARING TO START A BUSINESS. THE IDEA BEGAN SIMPLY AS A WAY TO MAKE A LITTLE EXTRA MONEY, BUT EVENTUALLY HIS LOVE FOR MUSIC DEVELOPED INTO A CAREER. FOCUS MAGA ZINE PL ANT CIT Y JULY 2016

DARK

HORSE With original plans to play professional baseball, he was lining himself up to play in college. That mission took a turn when, at age 14, his love for music started to develop. As his interest grew, he dedicated more time to developing his musical talent. Eventually music became his first choice for spending spare time, and a few years later, Michael realized he had found his “niche.” After nine years of playing baseball, he decided to let that dream go and focus on music. At age 16, Wilson decided to start sharing his talent for drumming and began to teach. His aim was to earn gas money, but from that first student, people started talking and then began reaching out to him for lessons. Now at 22, Wilson remembers, “Because I didn’t know exactly what I was getting into at the time, it started off very rough.” Although he didn’t have it all figured out, he knew he wanted to pass on his knowledge and passion for music to other people, especially children. For the first two years or so, Michael worked with about four students each year. After high school graduation, his list started growing. “We started Mikkeal Music Company with little business cards

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and that’s about all we could afford,” Wilson shared. Within a few years, more company recognition followed, and despite naysayers, at age 19, Wilson opened his ‘brick and mortar’ store in Plant City. “Everybody I talked to said there was no music store in Plant City, that mine would never survive because there wasn’t a big enough market,” Wilson said. “I’m a stubborn and driven person, so that mentality drove me to want to prove that it could be done.” Wilson credits his family for supporting him and allowing him space in their church building for his first store location. “My wife and family have been a huge inspiration,” he explained. “My family members have all been business owners in the past and have always pushed me to do what I want.” Wilson’s parents, Troy and Betty Wilson, are successful business owners in Plant City. They also had very humble beginnings when they opened their first business, The Strawberry Hut, in 1993, the same year their son Michael was born. In addition to running the sandwich shop, Troy is now a contractor and a pastor looking to build a church. The couple is also heavily involved in real estate. Since his parents have their hands full with their own business, Wilson explained that while they haven’t necessarily been around to physically run his business, “they’ve always been that emotional and moral support.” After marrying Breanna Wilson, his biggest supporter, the young entrepreneur decided to relocate Mikkeal Music to Wheeler Street and change the company’s name in February to Dark Horse Music Store. “A dark horse is a wild card that tends to be overlooked, like an unexpected player in the game. We want to bring out that hidden talent and ‘wild card’ inside of people,” he offered. “We believe everybody who comes here with a passion for music has the ability and raw talent that they can showcase to the world, no matter at what skill level they begin. We just want to help them build from and perfect that.”

DARK

HORSE us. We’re thankful also for the churches who have supported us in big ways over the years,” he said. Since the move, the business has grown by about 90%, which obviously required an increase in staff members. The Dark Horse teachers are primarily high school and college graduates who provide lessons as a paid internship. This provides them the opportunity to master and improve their own skills and the students’ skills while working their way through college. Dark Horse offers a variety of instrument lessons from drums to the oboe, as well as vocal lessons, taught by a handpicked team. Every teacher has a different specialty and each can typically play about five instruments. Wilson doesn’t just hire people who can play or have talent; he looks for people with a passion for music so they can instill that into the kids they teach. Aside from learning to play an instrument or bettering their vocals, Michael hopes students gain something else from their lessons.

Providing good service is important to Wilson. He hopes he achieves that with every client and admits his customers help motivate him to keep doing what he enjoys most. “I love when customers and parents compliment us and send videos of the progress they’re experiencing,” he added. “Watching a student progress and a good review means so much to me. It just lights everything up.” With the community’s support, Dark Horse has continued to thrive, and for that, Wilson is grateful.

A dark horse is a wild card that tends to be overlooked, like an unexpected player in the game

“I hope they would pass what they’ve learned forward to someone else. Not only that, but more so that they would use music as a positive outlet, rather than a negative one. Music can be a powerful tool when used correctly.”

Regarding music, Dark Horse is a one-stop shop. In addition to offering instrument and vocal lessons at the store or in your home, the company also sells, rents and repairs instruments. Recently Dark Horse has begun to offer studio recording, as well. A talent agency is also in the development stage, with a goal to help artists manage and promote their performance capabilities.

The music company is grounded on Wilson’s Christian values and beliefs, which he believes keep helps nurture a positive environment for the students. “In music, you can go many different directions and because of the foundation of faith we have, we’re able to positively impact those around

“When you support local shops, you’re investing in your local community. We try to keep the momentum alive,” he explained. Dark Horse is not only conveniently located, but, according to Wilson, services and products are more reasonably priced than similar businesses within a 30-mile radius. By year’s end, Dark Horse expects its weekly student count will reach over 150. Plans for expansion within the building are underway with completion expected in January 2017.

As a successful, young entrepreneur, Michael would advise others desiring to start their own business, “You have to be willing to make a lot of sacrifices.”

He believes his have paid off in the end.

Michael Wilson has accomplished more than most 22 year-olds and he’s not stopping here. In the future, he would like to have several franchise stores opened, while maintaining the Plant City location as headquarters. Until then, he is simply enjoying his work and taking things as they come. “I do one thing at a time. One step at a time. Sometimes I go to bed at night thinking, ‘I can’t believe I do this for a living.’ It blows my mind,” Michael admitted. “I’m extremely blessed.”

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Dental Associates of Walden Woods 512 E. Alexander Street Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-3030

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The Dental Associates at Walden Woods team members are proud to serve the community of Plant City with quality care for affordable prices in a comfortable atmosphere.

DENTAL ASSOCIATES AT WALDEN WOODS DR. RAY GUTIERREZ & DR. HELEN HOVEIDA

BY EDNA RUIZ PHOTO COURTESY OF DENTAL ASSOCIATES AT WALDEN WOODS

visit to the dentist is probably not everyone’s favorite outing, but one visit to Dental Associates at Walden Woods will have patients looking forward to their next. For more than 17 years, the Plant City dental office has been providing quality care for area residents. Five years ago, Dr. Ray Gutierrez stepped into the practice previously operated by different dentists. Then two years later, the University of Florida graduate was joined by Dr. Helen Hoveida, also a University of Florida alumnus. In addition to memberships in the American Dental Association and Florida Dental Association, both Gators are also esteemed members of the Doctor Mastery Program, a five-year clinical training program presented by worldrenowned clinicians. Together, they make a great team.

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“I love working with Dr. Ray,” said Dr. Hoveida. “He is my mentor and a great partner.” Both dentists are Invisalign® certified, too. Additionally, Dr. Gutierrez is certified for IV sedation. His favorite thing about the work he loves is “the interaction with patients.” He explained, “I like being able to see different families and different people continuously throughout the year. You know, establishing those relationships.” Dr. Gutierrez added, “And also I enjoy having a close-knit team here. I take pride in making sure we have a consistent team and staff.” Aside from his passion for dentistry, the doctor enjoys sports, fishing, and watching movies. Some may also recall Dr. Gutierrez as a 2013 participant in Plant City’s Dancing with the Locals, when he and dance partner Luly Bonilla

received perfect scores. Along with ADA and FDA memberships, Dr. Hoveida belongs to the Academy of General Dentistry. She supports and participates in fundraisers for community organizations such as the South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation, Lions Club, Plant City Food Bank and Chamber of Commerce. She spends free time reading, running, traveling and enjoying friends and family. “I love helping my patients. I love giving them that million-dollar, beautiful smile they deserve,” Dr. Hoveida said. “I love the satisfaction of helping someone and relieving their pain. That’s the biggest part of my job, just helping people and giving them their smile back.”

Dr. Ray Gutierrez, DMD

Dental Associates strives to provide high quality dental care for their patients at an affordable price. Their wide variety of services includes the most up-to-date treatments and procedures. As one of the few practices in town to offer IV sedation dentistry, most procedures are performed inhouse. These include root canals, dental implants, grafting and other services not offered here five years ago. “We’ve improved the technology in the office to provide the highest level of care we can,” stated Dr. Gutierrez. Decidedly, the dentists value their careers. “My goal is that all our patients feel very comfortable and confident in us,” said Dr. Gutierrez. “We try to provide value to our new patients and make sure they’re getting high level care at an affordable price in a comfortable atmosphere.” Through September 2, 2016, parents can enjoy an amazing back-to-school coupon for their children, ages 17-under. The exam, cleaning, x-rays and fluoride treatment are only $45. And new adult patients will appreciate the $59 coupon for cleaning, exam and x-rays, good until August 8, 2016. Call 813-7523030 or visit online to schedule your appointment. A great smile awaits!

Dr. Helen Hoveida, DMD

Culligan Water of Tampa 2703 Airport Road Plant City, FL 33563 Toll Free (888)440-4542 tampaculligan.com FOCUS MAGA ZINE PL ANT CIT Y JULY 2016

HOW BREXIT AFFECTS YOUR MORTGAGE BY NATE DAVIS

was going to write more about financing for new construction this month, but since the U.K. decided to separate from the European Union, I had to change the topic. In fact, its departure created a moment on which any current homeowners, or people looking to get a mortgage, may be able to capitalize. Before I get into the money-saving opportunity, let me recap what occurred. At the end of June, Brexit stirred up a selloff that decimated more than $3 trillion from the global stock market, with more than $2 trillion lost on the first day of the worldwide-newsworthy event. It was the largest single-day drop in history, according to S&P Global. To put that into perspective, it was larger than any day of the financial crisis of 2007-2008. When news that the U.K. was leaving the EU broke, many investors sought a

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safe haven for their money and did so via the U.S. 10-Year Treasury. This in turn created a silver lining for people who wish to get a historically low mortgage interest rate. This Treasury bond is often viewed as a barometer for the rate market. As a result of a multitude of investors shoveling money into it, both the 15- and 30-year mortgage rates have been driven down to their lowest levels in more than 3 years. If you were ever interested in refinancing your home or getting a mortgage to buy one, now just may be the time since it could save you thousands of dollars over the life of a mortgage loan. Call my team at 813-707-6200 if you have any questions. Florida Mortgage Firm is an Equal Housing Lender, NMLS #289323.

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WALDEN LAKE REVIEW BY NATALIE SWEET

he Walden Lake Community Association Board Meetings take place the third Monday monthly at the Walden Lake Community Association office building on Griffin Boulevard. The next meetings are scheduled for July 18th and August 15th at 7:00 PM. Meetings are open to all Walden Lake residents. Watch the announcement boards at all entrances for dates/times of special meetings and events. It’s nice to see children and adults playing outdoors at the Walden Lake Sports Complex. Did you know you could reserve the Pavilion at the new Sports Complex at the Polo Field for only $40, plus a refundable deposit of $100? If you haven’t visited yet, the Sports Complex is a must to check out. Sponsorship and donation opportunities are also available as this complex grows and is improved. Please contact the Association for more details. The “Back to School Ice Cream Social for Kids in Grades K-5 will be August 2nd from 6:30 to 8:00 PM at the Sports Complex! Each child will receive a pencil pouch filled with supplies! Rain or shine, the supplies will be available under the Sports Complex Pavilion. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Please RSVP to BetteG@ WaldenLake.org. By this printing, the Planning Board should have made their decision regarding Vision’s Golf application for rezoning of portions of the golf course. All communication, Vision Golf ’s submitted plans, and more can be found on the City of Plant City’s website at www.PlantCityGov. com. There were 16 sales in Walden Lake in June, with an average sale price of $210,406 and average time on the market of 34 days. During the first half of 2016, there have been 73 sales in Walden Lake and Walden Lake East with an average sale price of $204,959 and 64 days on the market. In the first six months of 2015, there were 72 sales with an average sale price of $203,853 and 68 days on the market, showing a flat market with less than a 1% increase in the year over year average sale price. I don’t agree with the year over year statistics and many factors contribute to statistics, so if you are interested

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in a true market analysis of your home, closely based on your neighborhood, please do not hesitate to contact me at nsweet@kw.com or 813-758-9586. June sales are as follows: 1421 Sandalwood Drive $120,000 4205 Longfellow Drive $166,000 1471 Walden Oaks Place $170,000 2732 Golf Lake Drive $175,000 3129 Emerson Place $180,500 3404 Silver Glen Court $183,000 3344 Silvermoon Drive $187,500 1502 Teakwood Drive $192,500 3306 Kilmer Drive $195,000 1803 S Golfview Drive $229,000 1723 Brookstone Way $230,000 1806 Country Club Court $246,000 3226 Alcott Avenue $255,000 2731 Horseshoe Drive $256,000 2914 Spring Hammock Drive $286,000 2921 Hampton Place Court $295,000 There are currently 29 Active listings for sale in Walden Lake and Walden Lake East with an average list price of $255,779 and an average of 56 days on the market. There are 20 properties Pending Contract with an average list price of $234,505 and average of 54 days on the market. If you are considering selling your home, this could be a good time as inventory is extremely low. The Sweet Team is available for a no obligation consultation 813-758-9586. The alligator that attached a Walden Lake contractor is still on the loose. At the last meeting, the Board approved extending the permit an additional 45 days and permission was given to the trapper to use a boat at night to try to capture the gator. With school out, the United Food Bank feeds many children breakfast and lunch during the summer, depleting their stocks. This is the only way many of these children are fed a nutritious meal. To to make it easy, you can drop any donations off at the HOA office. Feel free to contact me about any real estate questions or about this article. NSweet@KW.com or 813-758-9586.

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ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Dale Rice’s last tennis team was very memorable for both the coach and the athletes. The team was composed of the following athletes and coach: Rigoberto Juardo, Sam Haysick, Austin Everet, Jacob Cotheren, Chase Lott, Clay Adams, and Dale Rice.

DALE RICE A PLANT CITY LEGEND

BY ASHLYN YARBROUGH PHOTOS PROVIDED BY DALE RICE AND JACOB COTHREN

ale Rice has touched the lives of thousands of Plant City High School students and athletes throughout his 35-year career at the school. His unwavering optimism, extreme outgoingness, and years of life experience have made him an interesting and iconic person. For many PCHS students and alumni, he was favorite teacher, coach, and mentor. Rice was assistant coach for the baseball team his first four years. In 1985 he accepted the position as head coach for the tennis team, even thought he had little experience with the sport. The first team consisted of many well-known Plant City citizens such as Doug Gibbs, Tim Shuff, and Mohammad Pal. “That was a wonderful year,” Rice explained. “It was definitely a work in progress but I learned to adapt. It was a great ride.”

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In 1998, the PCHS tennis team won the district tournament, one of Rice’s most memorable coaching moments. “It was amazing being the first tennis team to win districts,” he said. “We made school history that year!” “Tennis is a great sport to develop personal skills and somewhat of an oxymoron: you need to think individually in order to play like a team,” Rice described. This 2015-2016 was his last at PCHS, since he had entered into the district’s drop program several years prior. He referenced that the “stars came together” and “it was just the right time to move on.” Rice taught classes ranging from English to the History of Rock and Roll. “I loved everyone I worked with. I even met my wife while working here,” Rice stated. “Plant City students are just the

nicest around.” This last tennis team was especially fun because every single player adored him. They all embraced the concept of “doing the best with what you got.”

Team captain Jacob Cothren shared, “My favorite part about coach was that he always had the best stories. Whether it was a road trip he went on or a concert he snuck into, he’s done it all. He also knew the best ‘hole-in-the-wall’ places to eat at after matches and just fellowship with the team.” Cothren also credits Rice for helping him develop leadership skills and control his temper in close-match situations. “He has helped me become a more stable, reliable, number-one player, and made me love the game even more.” Rice also loves working with the Special Olympics athletes at PCHS. He considers some of the best parts of his job are the relationships built with students and “working in the shadows.” With no major plans for his retirement, Rice expects to spend much time with his youngest son Drew, a PCHS senior this fall. “I will stay active and smile a lot,” he shared. As his PCHS career closes, Dale Rice gives great thanks to the school for being so nice and accommodating. The media center was dedicated recently in memory of his wife Leslie Rice, who taught English to Raider students for many years. He encouraged all students “to do their best academically and get involved in service to others.” PCHS students and alumni thank Mr. Rice for many wonderful memories and for touching their lives in such amazing ways. His heart for helping, coaching and teaching goes unmatched. Many will be forever grateful for Dale Rice.

Dale Rice, his wife, Leslie, and sons Drew and Bane took a family trip to Colorado two years ago.

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TEAM OF THE MONTH

The YMCA summer campers strike heroic poses as they showcase their creative Captain America shields they made during Super Hero week.

YMCA #BESTSUMMEREVER SUMMER CAMP WITH SUPERHEROES

BY ASHLYN YARBROUGH | PHOTOS BY PLANT CITY YMCA

he 2015/16 school year is behind us. With that, the daily and weekly schedules of children, teens, and adults take on an exciting change as summer is finally here! Students of every age look forward to the much-needed break from the daily regimen of schoolwork. Organized sporting activities also tend to slow down, allowing budding young athletes a chance to recoup and rest from the physical and scheduling challenges that many sports demand today. However, statistics show that students who continue a healthy balance of rest, activity, and learning are much better off than those who completely shut down through the entire summer. The Plant City YMCA is here for our community with a myriad of summer activities for everyone: young, mature,

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male, and female. One of the town’s largest summer events is the Plant City Family YMCA Summer Camp, which lasts for all eight weeks of summer break from 9:00a.m.– 4:00p.m. The camp consists of physical and recreational activities centered on the theme of the week. Children are categorized into three age groups or “villages” to help them bond with fellow campers of similar interests: ages 5-7, 8-9, and 10-11. A nutritional breakfast and lunch is provided daily for each child. The kids benefit greatly from our camp,” stated James Dineen, Camp Director. “We really try to encourage them to form new relationships with each other. The goal is for each child to make five new friends over the summer.” The Plant City YMCA offers

financial aid in hopes that as many children possible have an opportunity to participate. Additionally, the organization

has received a generous grant from The United Way that allows each camper to have a personalized workbook. “The kids work in it 30 minutes a day, every day, so they can also reach cognitive achievement levels and not just engage physical activity,” Dineen explained. The Plant City YMCA offer opportunities not only for children, tbut also for teens. Leaders in Training is a program to help rising 7th and 8th graders train to be camp counselors. They are a part of the summer camp and shadow the counselors as well. Teens can volunteer at YMCA events such as pool parties and Parents Night Out. Volunteer opportunities for adults are also availagle. The Plant City YMCA works to get the entire community actively involved and united. This summer includes three Summer Palooza Parties: June 11th, July 9th, and August 5th. These pool parties are open to the whole town, so anyone can come to enjoy food, entertainment, and door prizes. In addition to summer events, the Plant City YMCA also carries on their regular classes and activities such as Body Pump, Zumba, Aqua Zumba, Yoga, Water Aerobics, Body Flow, and more. The Plant City YMCA uses the hashtag #BestSummerEver to advertise that they will do their best to make sure everyone involved in their programs will truly have the best summer ever. Visit the Plant City YMCA and see the various ways you and your family can get actively involved this summer!

The first Summer Palooza Party on June 11th was a major hit as the kids swam, hula-hooped, and bonded with their families and friends.

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DANI MILLER

FOCUS MAGA ZINE PL ANT CIT Y JULY 2016

believer. I’ve taught workplace and community Bible studies, and visited with people in their homes, nursing homes, jails, and through public events and tent ministries. After I became GBMBC school superintendent and a deacon, God started speaking to me in dreams, through His Word, visions and finally an audible voice. In 1984 I accepted God’s calling, delivered my first sermon—Seek Ye The Lord’ from Isaiah 55:1-7—was licensed in 1986 and ordained in 1988. God has provided service opportunities in almost every leadership position in His church. It was not Seminary certificates, Bible college or Biblical Theologies diplomas, nor Master’s or Doctors of Divinity degrees, but rather being born again and equipped by God that I am a slave for the Master. I believe ‘I can because I think I can,’ since with God, ‘All things are possible.’ My life-sustaining scripture, Proverbs 3: 5-6, tells me to trust God in all my ways (even when eating my favorite ice cream and big peanut butter & jelly sandwiches).”

LEADERS IN FAITH REV. DR. SHAFTER E. SCOTT

BY CHERYL JOHNSTON hen Shafter E. Scott earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the Tuskegee Institute in 1965, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. addressed the baccalaureate and Dr. Benjamin Mays, Morehouse College President, spoke at commencement. Before graduation and his military commissioning (U.S. Army 2nd Lt., 82nd Airborne Division), he had married Evaline Marie Lewis, “the girl of my dreams, my life, and my eternal soulmate.” Their only son, Shafter “Van”

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Scott, died in 1976. This year the Scotts are celebrating 20 years of pastoring the 100-year-old St. Mary Missionary Baptist Church at 1849 SR60 East in Bealsville, established originally in 1915 in Hopewell. “With the Mighty Hand of God always guiding us,” Scott explained, “our vision is ‘GROWING, GLOWING, and GOING’ for Christ. He helps us with continuous spiritual growth as we pursue higher levels of maturity in Him. Praise the Lord!”

Evalina ministers with you, right? “Yes, in all I do. I thank God for her wisdom, comfort, and spiritual attitude as she directs our youth ministry, sings in choir, and works in mission groups. After 51-plus years, we are still lovers, friends, companions, believers in Christ as Savior, and married for life. My wife completes me!” Church has always been important to you, correct? “Yes, the Church has kept me throughout my life, not that I never did anything wrong (for I did) nor was I always in God’s will (sometimes I strayed). Baptized at age 11, I attended Bible studies, all services, BYPU (BTU today), tent revivals and occasionally night singings. We served at Greater Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Tampa. In 1977 at age 35, I really became a baptized, Holy Spirit-filled

Describe your Civil Rights activism. In addition to yearbook and Student Council president duties at Howard W. Blake High School, I was vicepresident of the NAACP Youth Council of West Tampa. I helped lead “Sit-In Demonstrations at Woolworth” in 1960. The Hillsborough County Sheriff Crime Prevention Department presented a plaque in 2001 for my actions during the ‘60s. As an NAACP life member, I’m still fighting to ensure political, educational, social and economic equality rights for ALL persons. I believe in ‘People helping People.’ Christ is the only way to peace and equality, which comes through eternal life. My greatest enjoyment today is in being free to read, study and minister the Word and in leading others to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.”

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THE ROAD TO ORGANIZATION

FOLLOWING THROUGH ON YOUR PROJECTS BY KRISTEN TONEY CAMPBELL

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Kristen is the voice behind www.theroadtodomestication.com, where she blogs on all things home and garden, with lots of emphasis on organization! She is married to a very patient man, and together they parent a very mischievous cat, a very happy dog, and they all enjoy home improvement projects and traveling.” We encourage you to visit her blog to learn more.

elcome to the middle of summer, folks. Is it hot enough for you yet?! But the REAL question is: how are you doing on your summer projects? If you are one who always has lots of big plans for things like cleaning out closets, or scrapbooking your photos, scanning documents into digital form or any other “project” over the summer months, but somehow you just never get around to GETTING STUFF DONE, well, we’ve all been there. But today, I’ve got some very simple tips to help kick you into gear! You can do this! 1. Write it down. Sounds so simple, but having your list of projects in black and white right in front of your face is a great first step. Plus, it’s a wonderful booster to cross things off the list! 2. Keep it simple. Don’t make yourself a list with 100 things to do on it. You’ll quickly become overwhelmed and you’ll give up too soon! 3. Do the dreaded first. If you knock out the item you MOST HATE doing FIRST, it can only get better from there!

Get it out of the way and move on to something more pleasant! 4. Make it fun. Why not start a new series on Netflix while you’re scanning documents into digital form? Hey, then you’re accomplishing TWO things at once! 5. Don’t procrastinate. If you had planned on getting up at 8:00 a.m. on Thursday and cleaning out your freezer, DO IT. Don’t sleep in instead! The more you procrastinate, the more frustrated you will become. 6. Reward yourself. Were you able to cross something off your list? Take a break and treat yourself to a fancy cup of coffee! Or a sweet ice cream cone! You did great! Before you know it, this will be the summer you actually followed through on your projects! And once you get a taste of how good that feels, you’ll be able to repeat the process over and over again. Good luck! If you’d like more tips for organization (plus recipes, home decor and DIY solutions) check out Kristen’s blog at www.theroadtodomestication.com.

2128 James Redman Parkway (between Bealls & Publix)

813-752-3320 GETTING MARRIED? WON AN AWARD? DELIVERED? GOT A PROMOTION?

MAGAZINE

Call 813-707-8783 Ext 24 To Share Your Good News

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CANDY’S CORNER BY CANDY OWENS

You’re a grand old flag, You’re a high flying flag, And forever in peace may you wave. You’re the emblem of The land I love. The home of the free and the brave. Every heart beats true ‘neath the Red, White, and Blue Where there’s never a boast or brag. Should auld acquaintance be forgot, Keep your eye on the grand old flag.

ell, it’s time to flip our calendars to July. Summer is in full swing. It is oh so hot outside and the temperature is on the rise. The hotels at the beach are packed and people young and old are sporting their glowing suntans and a whole lot of sunburns. OUCH!!! Oh! How I love summertime and its-• sounds of lawnmowers cranking and sputterin smells of freshly mowed grass • beautiful flowers in bloom • cotton candy blue skies • the remarkable scent of fresh peaches• • the flavor of piping hot corn-on-the cob with butter dripping down • the salty taste of steamy boiled peanuts • the sound of a chilled watermelon cracking open, the smell of coconut suntan lotion • the sight of juicy ripe blackberries just waiting to be picked • and the wonderfully delicious feeling of freedom. When I was a kid, freedom to me was: • hearing the final bell ring on the last day of school • taking my shoes off and not wearing them again all summer unless absolutely necessary • playing with my Barbies and Board games

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• coloring in my color books with my sister • watching cartoons like The Banana Splits, The Flintstones, and The Jetsons • watching TV shows like The Adams Family, Hazel, Leave it to Beaver, The Andy Griffith Show, Lucy, The Doctors, Love of Life, Somerset, The Edge of Night, Another World, The Guiding Light, Truth or Consequences, What’s my Line, This is your Life, The Monkees, Let’s Make a Deal, Dark Shadows and Shock Theatre • staying up late in the middle of the week • slumber parties • gathering the neighborhood kids for a game of Kickball, Red Rover, Swing the Statue, Simon Says, or softball • climbing trees • selling Lemonade • playing my record player • riding my bicycle • playing my transistor radio • chasing the Pinky Dinky man for ice cream • going to the movies, Toy King, Dipper Dan, or Dairy Queen • playing with my friends • and spending endless days at the Plant City Swim Club On the 4th of July, you would sometimes find our family enjoying a few days at Clearwater Beach. If we decided to stay in town for the holiday, my parents would take us to the Farmer’s Market where the Plant City Jaycees held their annual July 4th Bar-B-Que. And what a celebration it was-- with great food, music, dancing, singing, live bands, fireworks, and fun. People were everywhere! Young or old, everyone was welcome. I can remember loud music, people sitting around in chairs talking and laughing, children running around playing, the wonderful aroma of barbeque, and the

Paitlyn Davis

smoke. The smoke was coming from the big cookers and grills our local Jaycees used to prepare hundreds of pounds of beef, pork, and chicken for the special event. Our next door neighbor and lifelong friend Robert Edison would always be found standing at the helm of those big old smokers and grills with tongs in hand. Every year on the morning of the 4th, he would drive down to the market before daylight to fire up hose smokers and grills. And he’d stand watch over that meat all day long flipping, turning, and basting so it would be just right. Mr. Edison loved Plant City, he loved our country, and he loved to give of himself and his time. In fact, Mr. Edison was such a devoted businessman, husband, father, church member, community leader, Elk, Rotarian, and Jaycee that he was named: “Plant City’s Outstanding Young Man of 1973.” That in itself speaks volumes about Robert B. Edison. I thought it might be interesting to ask a few people from our little village what the 4th of July means to them and how they typically spend this patriotic day. Miss Paitlyn Davis, an adorable 6-year-old who loves her Barbie dolls, baking, gymnastics, and playing the piano, is looking forward to first grade at Lincoln Elementary Magnet this coming school year. She said, “It’s always on the 4th day of July. It is America’s birthday and we have a birthday party at the lake to celebrate. We go tubing, eat lots of food, and have fireworks with our family and friends.” Dr. Brenda K. Dukes, a Plant City physician who has specialized in Chiropractic health care for over 30 years,

considers July 4th to be about “God, Family, and Country and a special time to remember those who helped give us our independence.” Arden Mays Merckle, a local artist and owner of Arden Mays Designs, Inc. said: Red, White, and Blue. Our Flag, our Country, a Celebration of our Nation.” This year I will probably spend a somewhat quite 4th at home. Much to my dismay, gone are the days of beach trips with my parents and sister, neighborhood kids gathering in my driveway to shoot bottle rockets and light sparklers, and those unforgettable Jaycees Bar-B-Ques at the Farmer’s Market. My heart hurts to say that we lost our dear friend Mr. Edison three years ago this 4th of July. But isn’t it just like him, a man that loved his family, his country, his church, his community, his fellow Jaycees, and his freedom, to leave us on the most patriotic day of the year? On this 4th of July, may we fly or flags proud and high. May we always be true to that good old Red, White, and Blue. May the bells of liberty ring as the Star Spangled Banner we sing. As the fireworks light up the night sky may we remember why. So many brave men and women had to fight and die. Thankful we MUST be because FREEDOM IS NOT FREE. As long as the Statue of Liberty stands tall, may there be LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL!

WANDA’S WORDS OF WISDOM

BY WANDA “LEWIS” ANDERSON

piders? NOT a fan! My granddaughter Juliana always tells me when there’s a spider in the house. Let’s look at some ways to get rid of those pesky creatures. Spiders hate the scent of citrus fruits. Place some dried lime, orange or lemon peels in the garden or areas where they enter the house. Use citrus-scented cleaning products to mop your floors, dust furniture and clean countertops. Try applying lemon or orange-scented furniture polish on windowsills. Get all around door frames, inside and out. Mix 3 cups water, 1 teaspoon dish soap and 1 tablespoon essential oil or natural extract. Pour the contents into a clean spray bottle and shake well. Spray around the house where you would normally see spiders. Here’s another tip; in a large pot pour a gallon of water and boil. Remove it from heat and add pipe or chewing tobacco. Allow the tobacco to soak until the water is completely cooled. Strain the water

into another container. Measure 1 cup of tobacco water and a 1/2 cup of a lemon cleaner such as lemon dish detergent or lemon floor cleaner into a bowl, mix together. Pour the mixture into a hose sprayer or dilute it and add it to a spray bottle. This time of year also brings out the fleas in full swing. Here are a few tips that may help. Fleas drown in water. Shampoo your pets with herbal shampoos such as eucalyptus and citronella which naturally deter fleas. Try leaving bowls of water filled with dish soap on your floor at night, you will attract many fleas that will dive right in and drown, discard them in the morning. Put out new soapy water every night for a few weeks until you don’t see any fleas in the bowls. Be careful to place the bowls in an area where your pets can’t get to it. Fleas do not like the sour taste of vinegar and will stay away from the smell. Apply vinegar to your floors and carpets. Also, repellents with an organic cinnamon base works in chasing away fleas. Until next time relax, enjoy and be thankful…

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surrounded Castagno’s life during the years he lived with his family in a small South Carolina town. “Jake deals with things that are chronic issues I had firsthand experience with,” said Castagno. The main character, Jake, is faced with the question as to whether it’s possible to create a new identity even that identity goes against the way he was raised. 20+ hard cover and 37 e-book sales. Also we have about 10 online reads through Kindle unlimited At the time of this interview in just a few short weeks on Amazon, Castagno’s book had already sold over

JOE CASTAGNO AUTHOR/WRITER PUBLISHES FIRST BOOK BY HEATHER DAVIS

hen creating art, whether it be in the form of a song, a painting, or a book, it is with some understanding you are creating something that may continue to be around long after you are gone. What an awesome opportunity it is to be a part of something that can be defined as larger than life. Recently, Plant City local, Joe Castagno, completed such an awe inspiring project in the form of a book. He self-published Jake--A Journey of Self Discovery earlier this year and is already experiencing sales success on Amazon. Joe Castagno grew up in a very colorful, non-traditional family. As a young boy growing up without a television, Castagno developed a great passion for reading. His interest in books

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soon turned into a love for writing which ultimately became his creative outlet. Initially, Jake was a small collection of short stories that soon took on a life of their own, eventually filling 359 pages in Castagno’s first published book. From start to finish the writing took him five years to complete. The story is set in the modern day South and addresses chronic issues of both current and historical racism, illegal immigration, and addictive behaviors. The theme of Jake is one man’s struggle to overcome his past in an effort to create a better life. While writing, Castagno spent a great deal of time and research making sure the people, places, and events he writes about are authentic. Many of those are based roughly upon actual events that

20 hardcover and 15 paperback copies, 37 e-book downloads and 10 online reads through Kindle Unlimited. Jake: A Journey to Self-Discovery has been met with extremely positive reviews by readers with an average rating of 4.4 stars on Amazon. One reviewer commented that Jake was a book hard to put down, with several more reviewers asking for a second book from Castagno. Not one to slow down for too long, Castagno is already back at it, this time with two books in process. To find out more about Jake and the author, Joe Castagno, visit his Facebook page or search on Amazon.

Miss Diane Butler Letchworth caught her first redfish on her birthday while fishing with Blackneck Adventures Fishing Chargers. Happy birthday, Diane!

FISH TALES BY MIKE GOODWINE

Hello! It’s Captain Mike Goodwine. Welcome to Fish Tales. Each month I offer monthly fishing reports on where the fish are biting and share fishing tips. I also select the catch of the month from photos emailed to mike@Blackneckadventures.com.

t’s here folks. We’re in the “dog days of summer.” Temperatures are really high and fishing conditions get really tough. As the water heats up, the fish move to deeper depths or areas that provide shade. Fishing early morning or late in the afternoon increases your chances for a better bite. Fish tend to get sluggish when it’s hot, so slow up your presentation. Soaking cut bait works--that’s if you can bare the heat yourself. Top water plugs works really great being that there’s been hardly any wind. It’s a great time to run offshore also with flats seas. The snapper bite has been excellent and some grouper are showing up inside the bay. Be safe out there during these brutal hot days. Until next time, “Live and let fish.”

FISHING TIP OF THE MONTH Remember to stay hydrated and protect yourselves from the sun. If you don’t own a T Top on your boat, a pool umbrella can be placed in your rod holder. Invest in a long sleeve dry-fit shirt. Pack your coolers down with plenty of ice and in between tides. find your nearest sandbar for a quick swim. I freeze water bottles to keep my live baits alive. Every hour I toss one in the livewell. Again protect from the heat.

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CALL NOW: 813-707-1000 or email: Rhett@fearnowins.com www.RollysonFearnow.com FOCUS MAGA ZINE PL ANT CIT Y JULY 2016

ABC PIZZA

The specials board at ABC Pizza is visible at the entrance of the attractive main dining area, which is divided into several sections. There also is a separate room for meetings or large groups.

ABC PIZZA AND SO MUCH MORE FROM “A”LFREDO TO “Z”ITI

a dessert. The baklava had a lovely cinnamon flavor with a hint of nutmeg and cloves. The family-owned chain was started in 1966 by Greek immigrant William Fotopoulos. The Plant City location is owned by Ted Fotopoulos and managed by Chris Ellis. The store features traditional Greek foods like spinach pie, gyros and Greek salads, Italian dishes such as lasagna, a veal platter and several types of parmesan and Alfredo and American fare such as roast chicken, burgers, steak, grinders, soup and tuna salad. Kids 12 and younger can get a beverage with a choice of mac and cheese, spaghetti, pita pizza, chicken fingers or garlic bread with cheese and pepperoni. Wine and sangria are available by the glass, carafe or half-carafe and draft beer by the mug, small or large pitcher. The dessert menu now includes baklava,

114 N. Alexander Street Plant City, FL 813-752-5146 abcpizza.com Open Daily - 11AM-11PM

kataifi, flogeres and cheesecakes in five flavors: New York, lemon/raspberry, sweet potato maple and Greek yogurt. Prices range from $3.50 for a cup of soup to $16.95 for shrimp scampi supreme. “People enjoy coming here for the good prices and good homemade foods,” said Felvinczi. “We have specials every day, including half-price appetizers from 11 in the morning to noon every day and all-you-can-eat spaghetti for $6.55 all day Tuesday and Wednesday and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays.” Along with convenient hours daily, ABC Pizza offers take out and catering, too. Visit ABC Pizza on Facebook to offer your “like” and view specials.

BY BARBARA ROUTEN

ou might assume a place with “pizza” in the name would serve good pizza, and ABC Pizza certainly does, with its multiple toppings and “always-better-crust” made daily. For many customers, the pizza they enjoy at the well-established Mediterranean eatery is enough to keep them coming back. But ABC Pizza in Plant City offers so much more. During a recent lunch visit, we tried the shrimp scampi, a gyro platter and salads. Our waitress, Eva Felvinczi, an employee since 1994, brought our salads and a basket of great-smelling, freshly baked yeast rolls, which were the perfect combination of delicate crunchiness and soft centers. Real butter, a staple on the table, melted into the delicious rolls. The salads were a tasty mix of locally grown, crisp iceberg lettuce, firm, juicy tomatoes and snappy cucumbers. A large scoop of homemade potato salad, julienne ham, crumbled feta

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cheese, pitted Greek olives and two pepperoncinis turned house salads into mini-Greek salads. We topped them with ABC Pizza’s handmade Italian dressing, conveniently provided in a squeeze bottle Eva left on the table for us. That would have been enough food for a meal, but then Eva delivered piping-hot plates with our entrées. The shrimp scampi was as appealing to look at as it was to eat, with goodsized, cooked-just-right peeled shrimp, chopped broccoli, sliced mushrooms and tomatoes on a mound of lightly garlicbutter-sauced linguini. The gyro platter included rolled-up, moist gyro meat topped with onions and tomatoes and a tzatziki sauce of cucumber bits and sour cream. A large helping of baked spaghetti topped with a meatless red sauce and melted mozzarella cheese accompanied the gyro. Even after such a satisfying lunch (with enough leftovers for more than one more meal for each of us), we split

House salads become Greek salads with the addition of ham, feta cheese, Greek olives, pepperoncinis and potato salad. Homemade house dressing is served on the side, in a squeeze bottle for easy use.

Please this paper! SMALL SUB AND MINI GREEK SALAD FOR $9.90 FROM 11:00 A.M. TO 4:00 P.M. ONLY. (Excludes shrimp and 15% off coupon)

FOCUS MAGA ZINE PL ANT CIT Y JULY 2016

Cool off this summer heat with a treat from

3702 W Baker St., Plant City, FL 33563 | www.parkesdale.com 76

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FOCUS MAGA ZINE PL ANT CIT Y JULY 2016

A HINT OF GARLIC BY VICTORIA WATKINS SGRO

f you ask me, Summertime is for grilling out and sipping lemonade somewhere by the water. And after spending three years living in El Paso, Texas, I can’t imagine grilling out without the carne asada! There’s no need to use store-bought blends on your meats (which are typically full of preservatives, fillers, and anti-caking agents). Instead, make a quick marinade and rub down your steak with a homemade mix of fragrant spices. It’s grilling time, y’all!

SADA CARNE AA MARIN DE

Ingredients

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Directions

bag, ts in a gallon sized Place all ingredien well with your d un aro it rk wo d seal it, an for rinade in the fridge hands. Allow to ma ur. 30 minutes to an ho

ADOBO SEAS

Ingredients

• 2 TBSP sea salt • 1 TBSP orga nic, smoked pa prika • 2 tsp freshly ground black pe pper • 2 tsp each of organic onion powder,

Directions

ONING

oregano, and cu min • 1 tsp organi c garlic granules • 1 tsp organi c chili powder • 2 tsp organi c turmeric

Remove the m eat from the m arinade and ru spice mixture. W b it down with e personally us a generous amou ed all of the ab a beautiful color nt of the ove mix on our and flavor. Then 2-lb steak! It cre , ask the grill m perfection (in ou ated as ter of your fam r house – that ’s ily to grill it up my husband, An five minutes be to thony). Allow fore slicing. En the steak to res joy it by itself or t for as the protein in tacos or burrito s.

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FOCUS MAGA ZINE PL ANT CIT Y JULY 2016

» DINING GUIDE

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CHILI’S

hili’s has been spicing things up since 1975. There is something for everyone’s taste. From sizzling chicken or beef fajitas, fired grilled classic burgers 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

OLDE TOWN PIZZERIA

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

3011 JAMES L REDMAN PARKWAY PLANT CITY, FL 33566 (813) 752-5800 • WWW.OLDETOWNPIZZERIA.COM

PLANT CITY HOMETOWN BUFFET

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

1914 JAMES L REDMAN PARKWAY PLANT CITY, FL 33563 813-754-4488

TACO REY

hether you’re in the mood for soup & salad or the tastiest mexican food in town, Taco Rey Mexican Grill is the King! We are 100% authentic and here to serve you 7 days a week. Our food is freshly prepared for your viewing pleasure and with only the finest ingredients. We offer daily lunch specials and call to order service! Adults and kids will love our menu and Aguas Frescas De Sandia, traditional natural home made drinks.

1818 JAMES REDMAN PARKWAY PLANT CITY, FL 33563 813.754.2100

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SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT

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» DINING GUIDE

TASTE OF INDIA

he TASTE OF INDIA offers an exquisite fine dining experience while serving Authentic Indian Cuisine for the past 6 years in Brandon. Some of the most requested dishes include Butter Chicken, Tandoori Chicken, Masala Dosa, Garlic Shrimp, Goat Curry, and Whole Fried Snapper! FULL BAR! Entree prices start at $10.95 and the Lunch Buffet prices are $9.95 weekdays and $12.95 weekends. Military Discounts! Professional Catering Available. Serving Lunch Buffet Mon-Fri 11:30-2:30, Sat/Sun 12-3. Dinner Hours are Mon-Thurs 5-10pm, Sat 5-10:30pm and Sun. 5-9:30. Relax and enjoy the wonderful spices and scents of the Delicious and Delectable Indian cuisine!

902 E. BRANDON BLVD. BRANDON, FL. 33511 813-689-4040

WAYBACK BURGERS

ayback Burgers offers premium burgers, made from 100% beef, fresh, never frozen, made to order just the way you like it. Our delicious hand dipped milkshakes hit the spot every time you try one.

Every month, Wayback Burgers features a brand new “Burger of the Month” and “Milkshake of the Month”. And burgers are only the beginning; House-made potato chips, all beef hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, turkey burgers, specialty burgers and fresh salads are available. We also feature local brewed beer from Two Henrys Brewing. Wayback, way better!

200 W. ALEXANDER STREET PLANT CITY, FL 33563

FOCUS MAGA ZINE PL ANT CIT Y JULY 2016

can’t miss

events ONGOING

106 N. Evers St. Info: Dodie White, 813-752-5156

MONDAYS WEEKLY

2ND TUESDAYS MONTHLY

• Plant City Daybreak Rotary Club 7 AM South Florida Baptist Hospital Community Room Info: George Banning, 813-759-1638

• GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City 10:30 AM 1110 N. Wheeler St. Info: Nancy Miller, 813-754-2544 2nd & 4th Tuesdays Monthly

1ST & 3RD MONDAYS MONTHLY • Improvement League of Plant City 7 PM Historic Glover School Conference Room 5104 Horton Rd. Info: William Thomas, 813-757-6760

2ND & 4TH MONDAYS MONTHLY • Plant City Commission Meeting 7:30 PM City Hall, 302 W. Reynolds St. City Clerk: 813-659-4237 (December: only the 2nd Monday)

2ND MONDAY MONTHLY • Plant City Garden Club 10 AM (Sept. thru May) info: Christy Linke; 732-322-8392

TUESDAYS WEEKLY • Plant City Lions Club 12 Noon The Catering Company & Café 115 E. Reynolds St. Info: Tony Lee, 813-752-7202 • Recovery for Life 6:30 - 8PM 12-step Bible-based program to help w/ addictions Lorena Jaeb Rainbow House 504 N. Palm Dr., Plant City Info: Debbie Ray 813-763-1562

1ST TUESDAYS MONTHLY • Economic Development Corp. Meeting 2 PM PC Chamber unless announced 106 N. Evers St. Info: Jake Austin, 863-712-0655

1ST TUESDAYS MONTHLY (SEPT-MAY) • Arts Council of Plant City 7 PM Chamber of Commerce Public Room

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• American Legion– Norman McLeod Post#26 6 PM @ 2207 W. Baker St. 813-752-8608 Info: Nancy Miller, 813-754-2544

2ND & 4TH TUESDAYS MONTHLY • American Legion– Norman McLeod Post#26 6 PM 2207 W. Baker St. 813-752-8608 Info: Nancy Miller, 813-754-2544

WEDNESDAYS WEEKLY • Walking Club 7:30AM for 45-minute walk Meet @Bruton Library Info: Susan Miles 813-757-9215 • Plant City Kiwanis Club 12 Noon Info: David Wolf / 813-717-9300

THURSDAYS WEEKLY • Toastmasters 7:30 AM @ PC Chamber 106 N. Evers St. • Hillsborough County Entrepreneur Services 9AM - 4PM PC Chamber, 106 N. Evers St. Dottie @813-204-9267 re: consultation • PC Local Harvest Farmers Market 4 – 8 PM McCall Park, 100 N. Collns St. 813-531-1811 pclocalharvestfarmersmarket.com

2ND THURSDAYS MONTHLY • GFWC Junior Woman’s Club of Plant City 7 PM 1110 N. Wheeler St. Info: Lisa Rhodes, 813-376-8294

FRIDAYS WEEKLY • Acoustic Happy Hour 5:30 – 8:30PM O’Brien’s Irish Pub 1701 S. Alexander St. 813-764-8818

• Country Fried Fridays 9PM – 2AM Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill 106 E. SR 60 (at SR39) Ladies drink free DJ plays Top 40 Country 813-737-4444

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS WEEKLY • Music in The Loft @Krazy Kup Fridays: 6:33 - 8:33 PM Saturdays: 8:33 - 10:33PM 101 East J. Arden Mays Blvd. 813-752-1220; Facebook

• O’Brien’s Live Music 9PM ‘til close O’Brien’s Irish Pub 1701 S. Alexander St. 813-764-8818

3RD SATURDAYS MONTHLY • Strawberry Classic Car Show New winter hours: 4-8 PM 102 N. Palmer St. Historic Downtown Plant City Info: Peggy Wilson at 813-754-3707 www.plantcity.org peggy@plantcity.org

JULY 15 FRIDAY • “Hello Dolly!” Plant City Entertainment 8 PM @ 101 N. Thomas St. Tickets: pceshows.com or Hardee’s Fashions Adults $16, Students/Srs. $14, Groups (10+)$12

16 SATURDAY • Elvis Festival 11AM - 8PM (showroom opens @10AM) University Area Community Center 14013N. 22nd St., Tampa $35 all day; $10 per individual shows Free Parking 11AM - Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest Preliminaries 3PM - ELVIS Show- w/ Jerome Jackson 6PM - Ultimate ETA Contest Finals (6 finalists will compete for title of Tampa Bay Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist and will

represent Tampa Bay, FL in “The Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest in Memphis, TN, August 2016. • Strawberry Classic Car Show Winter hours: 4-8 PM 102 N. Palmer St. Historic Downtown Plant City Info: 813-754-3707 www.plantcity.org peggy@plantcity.org • “Hello, Dolly!” Plant City Entertainment 8 PM @ 101 N. Thomas St. Tickets: pceshows.com or Hardee’s Fashions Adults $16, Students/Srs. $14, Groups (10+)$12

21 THURSDAY • Toastmasters 7:30AM @ PC Chamber 106 N. Evers St. All are welcome! • PC Local Harvest Farmers Market 4-8 PM McCall Park, 100 N. Collins St. 813-531-1911 pclocalharvestfarmersmarket.com

22 FRIDAY • “Hello, Dolly!” Plant City Entertainment 8 PM @ 101 N. Thomas St. Tickets: pceshows.com or Hardee’s Fashions Adults $16, Students/Srs. $14, Groups (10+)$12

23 SATURDAY • “Hello, Dolly!” Plant City Entertainment 8 PM @ 101 N. Thomas St. Tickets: pceshows.com or Hardee’s Fashions |Adults $16, Students/Srs. $14, Groups (10+)$12

24 SUNDAY • “Hello, Dolly!” Plant City Entertainment 2 PM @ 101 N. Thomas St. Tickets: pceshows.com or Hardee’s Fashions Adults $16, Students/Srs. $14, Groups (10+)$12

25 MONDAY • Plant City Commission Meeting 7:30 PM Sadye Gibbs Martin Auditorium City Hall, 302 W. Reynolds St. City Clerk: 813-659-4237

28 THURSDAY • Toastmasters 7:30AM @ PC Chamber 106 N. Evers St. All are welcome! • PC Local Harvest Farmers Market 4-8 PM McCall Park, 100 N. Collins St. 813-531-1911 pclocalharvestfarmersmarket.com

29 FRIDAY • “Hello, Dolly!” Plant City Entertainment 8 PM @ 101 N. Thomas St. Tickets: pceshows.com or Hardee’s Fashions Adults $16, Students/Srs. $14, Groups (10+)$12

30 SATURDAY • “Hello, Dolly!” Plant City Entertainment 8 PM @ 101 N. Thomas St. Tickets: pceshows.com or Hardee’s Fashions Adults $16, Students/Srs. $14, Groups (10+)$12

31 SUNDAY • “Hello, Dolly!” Plant City Entertainment 2 PM @ 101 N. Thomas St. Tickets: pceshows.com or Hardee’s Fashions Adults $16, Students/Srs. $14, Groups (10+)$12

AUGUST 02 TUESDAY • Economic Development Corporation Monthly Meeting 2PM PC Chamber unless announced 106 N. Evers St. Info: Jake Austin, 863-712-0655

04 THURSDAY • Toastmasters 7:30AM @ PC Chamber 106 N. Evers St. All are welcome!

05 FRIDAY • New Teacher Coffee 7:30 - 9:00 AM Welcome, New Teachers! Strawberry Festival Expo Building Contact: 813-754-3707

08 MONDAY • Plant City Commission Meeting 7:30 PM Sadye Gibbs Martin Auditorium City Hall, 302 W. Reynolds St. City Clerk: 813-659-4237

09 TUESDAY • Plant City Kiwanis 4th Annual Business Spelling Bee 7:00 PM Help Kiwanis “Stuff the Bus” & “Read Around the World” Sponsor Businesses $200 Fee Individual Tickets: $10 Plant City Entertainment 101 N. Thomas Street Info: David Haught, 813-717-9300

10 WEDNESDAY • Greater PC Chamber of Commerce August Contact Breakfast Ag Breakfast sponsored by Farm Credit 7:15 - 9:00 AM John R. Trinkle Center @HCC 2206 E. Cherry St. RSVP: peggy@plantcity.org 813-754-3707

11 THURSDAY • Toastmasters 7:30AM @ PC Chamber 106 N. Evers St. • PC Local Harvest Farmers Market 4-8 PM McCall Park, 100 N. Collins St. 813-531-1911 pclocalharvestfarmersmarket.com

FOCUS MAGA ZINE PL ANT CIT Y JULY 2016

FOCUS OBITUARIES Pat Hopkins, age 75, of Plant City, Florida passed away Tuesday, June 21st, 2016. The Plant City native was the daughter of James and Ryndia Townsend Sloan. Pat was a member of a local pioneering family. She had spent time picking strawberries and packing peppers and was a licensed Insurance Agent. She had many passions in her life: Reading, cooking, sewing, basketry, floral design, decorating and art with specialties in; Charcoal, pencil, pastel, oil, and watercolor including landscapes, still life and portraits. Pat had limited adventures in journalism for self-satisfaction, and occasionally on demand. Pat currently lived in rural Hillsborough County herding cows, feeding rabbits and dog sitting. Survivors include Beloved Husband: John Hopkins. Children: Jef (Natalie) Rowland, Beth (Bryan) Bonner, Colin (Anna) Hopkins, Andrew Stegall; Siblings: Buddy (Carol) Sloan, James (Lois) Sloan, Pam (Carmine) Ferraro. Grandchildren: Charlee and Abby Rowland, Rachel Bonner, Tina, Kelly and Billy Hopkins. Great Granddaughter: Theresa Gagnon. The family received friends Saturday, July 9th, 2016 from 1 to 2 pm, with memorial services following, at Olin S. Wright Masonic Lodge, 304 Acacia Drive, Plant City, Florida 33563. If desired, donations may be made to LifePath Hospice in Pat’s memory. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.haughtfuneralhome.com Paul Donald Anthony, Sr., 72 ,of Tampa, died June 28, 2016 at his home. The Elizabeth, Pennsylvania native was the son of John and Mildred Belcher Anthony. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marianna Phelps Anthony, and son, Paul D. Anthony, Jr. His survivors are children, Jayne (Marvin) Grant, Chris (Shelly) Anthony, Mary (David) Hill, Wendy (Erik) Siegel, Jenny Anthony; sibling, Carl ( Jan) Anthony; 15 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren. Paul was a transmission shaft inspector with Rockwell and a salesman in many different fields, to include real estate. The family had a celebration on Tuesday ( July 5) at 11 am at First Thonotosassa Baptist Missionary Church, 10650 MacIntosh Road, Thonotosassa Fl. Online condolences may be left for the family at haughtfuneralhome.com Michael Warren “Boston Mike” Liverett, 45, of Lithia, died June 28, 2016. A native of West Bridgewater, Massachusetts, he

JULY 2016 focusplantcity.com

was the son of Warren and Susan Gibson Liverett. They survive. Also surviving are his beloved wife, Beth Shepard Liverett; children, Jordon, Alexis, Selena, and Dillon Liverett, and Meredith Meyer; in laws, Butch and Marilyn Shepard; sister, Pam (Ron) Dutra; brothers and sister in law, David Shepard and Jana Maloney, Mark Shepard. Michael was owner operator of a Snyder Pretzels franchise, loved fishing, ATVs and his children. A celebration of life was held July 3, 2016 at 1:00pm, Beulah Baptist Church, 5300 Beulah Baptist Church Road in Lithia, Florida 33547. Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haughtfuneralhome.com Donald Alfred Vaughan, 78 of Plant City died July 3, 2016 in Franklin, NC. A native of Nitro, WV and raised in Majestic, KY, he was the son of the late John and Gwendolyn Goble Vaughan. Also preceding him in death were his twin brother, Ronald Goble Vaughan by three days, father, Hurchell (Ethel) Allison and brother, Clay Allison. Survivors include his beloved wife of 32 years, Juanita Singletary Vaughan; step-children, Charlene (William) Doehring, Joseph Robinson; sister, Karen (Al) Plank; brothers, Glen ( Judy) Allison, Ernie (Murlena) Allison; grandchildren, Cody (Ami) Shelton and their children, Tristan, Brylie, and Finley; Andrew (Ariel) Shelton, John Phillip Shelton, Sarah Shelton, Benjamin Shelton; sister in law, Edna Vaughan. Donald was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and retired from the Army National Guard as a CW3. He also retired from teaching in the public school system after 25 years. Donald was a loving, giving man who idolized his grandchildren, especially his great grandchildren. He and Juanita loved to travel, spending much of their time annually in North Carolina. A funeral service was held at 4pm, Wednesday, July 13, 2016 at Haught Funeral Home, 708 W Dr MLK Jr Blvd, Plant City. Donald will be interred with military honors at Florida National Cemetery at a later date. Online condolences may be left for the family at haughtfuneralhome.com Roy Oliver Rayburn, 72 of Dover died July 3, 2016 in Land O Lakes. A native of Plant City, he was the son of Clarence and Helen Crowley Rayburn. He is survived by his siblings, Fred,

Shirley, and Les. Roy served in the Army National Guard, loved to read, was a historian, an avid sportsman, and taught at Brandon High School for 30 years. A memorial service was held at 10:30am, Monday, July 11, 2016 at Haught Funeral Home Chapel, 708 W Dr MLK Jr Blvd, Plant City, with visitation 30 minutes prior. If desired, donations may be made in Roy’s memory to your favorite charity. Online condolences may be left for the family at haughtfuneralhome.com Dot Jo Spear, passed away at the age of 90 on July3, 2016. She was surrounded with loved ones at her home when she went to be with Jesus. She was a native of Plant City, the daughter of Leroy and Frances Willaford. She was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Jimmie Spear; children, Sylvia Ruebeling and Jim Spear. Survivors include daughters, Deborah Walker and Gayle Swindle; brother, RJ Willaford; grandsons, David, Adam, and Jacob Walker, Richie McKinney and Ryan Swindle; great grandchildren, Daelyn, Kody, Blake, Davis, Hannah, Shelby and Lacie Walker, Hailey McKinney; Son-in-law, Gary Ruebeling. Dot Spear was the rock of our family and an inspiration to everyone who knew her. Her faith in Jesus Christ guided her every step through this life. She overflowed with the love of her Savior, and wanted to share that joy by reaching out to others. She remained active until her last days with us, whether it was making her pies or tending her garden. When Dot put her mind to something it was as good as done. Every day she lifted her family in prayer, and showed us by doing that, how to overcome adversity. She was our loving Matriarch, our Mother, our Sister, and our cherished Grandma. She has left us this beautiful legacy to draw strength from. We will miss you, until we get to see you again. A funeral was held at 11am, Saturday, July 9, 2016 at First Baptist Church of Plant City, 503 N Palmer St., with visitation one hour prior. Burial followed at Oaklawn Cemetery. Online condolences may be left for the family at haughtfuneralhome.com Michael Lopez, 22, of Dover, Florida passed away Sunday, May 15th, 2016. A native of Tampa, Florida, he was the son of Jose Lopez and Kathern Smith, who survive. Other survivors include Grandparents: Brenda and Manuel Perez. Siblings: Manuela Perez, Luiz Smith, Sylvio Dominguez, Hannie Ramirez, Neida Ramirez. The family receive friends Thursday, May 26th, 2016 at Haught Funeral Home Chapel

708 W. Dr. M.L.K. Jr. Blvd. Plant City, Florida 33563. The Funeral Services were private. Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haughtfuneralhome.com. Melba Jean Forbes, 86, of Plant City died May 16, 2016. The Pelham, Alabama native was the daughter of George and Pansy Lawrence Cox. She was the wife of the late Dixie Leon Forbes. Survivors include son, Leon “Buddy” Lamarr Forbes; daughter, Dixie ForbesGorby; brother Edward (Lupe) Cox; sister Doris Maynard; sisters in law, Winnie Cox, Sandra Beckham Cox; grandchildren, Dennis Bartlett, Stephen Forbes, and many nieces and nephews who loved and cared for her. Melba was a veteran of the Air Force Reserves, serving in Korea, and worked for Lakeland Hospital for 18 years. A memorial service was held Saturday, May 21, 2016, at Eastside Baptist Church, Calhoun St., Plant City. She will be interred with her husband in Florida National Cemetery at a later date. Online condolences may be left for the family at haughtfuneralhome.com Blanche Bennett, 85, of Plant City, Florida passed away Tuesday, May 17th, 2016. She was the daughter of the late James and Annie Dixon Lewis. Mrs. Bennett was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years: Robert Lee Bennett. She is survived by her children: Roger Lee and wife Joyce Bennett, Brenda Glover, Annie and husband Duke Marquis, Renee husband John Dearinger, Kathryn Lagay and husband Ross Bennett. 12 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. She was a member of the Mt. Zion Assembly of God Church and loved the Lord Jesus with all her heart. Banche loved and was an accomplished singer, singing on radio programs here in Plant City. She also enjoyed gardening, and took pride in being a homemaker. If so desired, contributions may be made to: Alzheimer’s Association P.O. Box 96011 Washington, DC 20090-6011. The family received friends Friday, May 20th, 2016 at Mt. Zion Assembly of God, 3005 Thonotosassa Rd., Plant City, Florida 33565, where funeral services followed at 11:00 am. Online condolences may be left for the family at Haught Funeral Home. com

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PLANT CITY HISTORY

THU, JULY 14 LADIES NIGHT WITH CLIFF BROWN 6-9 PM FRIDAY, JULY 15,2016 AQUAMAN 6-10 PM SATURDAY, JULY 16,2016 BRIAN SUTHERLAND DUO 6-10 PM WEDNESDAY, JULY 20,2016 WINE DOWN WEDNESDAY WITH ESTE LOVES 6-9 PM

I-4 Exit 17 • 5210 W. Thonotosassa Blvd. • Plant City, FL 813-752-9100 • twohenrysbrewing.com

JULY 2016 focusplantcity.com

Christmas in July ANNUAL DONATION DRIVE

Friday, July 29 St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital treats tens of thousands of Tampa Bay’s children every year. Whether they arrive by ambulance, are recovering from open-heart surgery or are undergoing cancer treatment, they receive the finest medical care and emotional support available.

Here’s how you can make a difference: Sponsor an extraordinary child experience: Visit StJosephsChristmas.org Drop off toys and donations: Join Santa and his elves at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital on Friday, July 29, from 7am to 1pm.

BC1604535_0616

3001 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. | Tampa | (813) 872-0979 | StJosephsChristmas.org FOCUS MAGA ZINE PL ANT CIT Y JULY 2016

essentials

Tampa • Wesley Chapel Brandon • Lakeland • Ocala•Bradenton

RussellsWesternWear.com 88

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