FOCUS Plant City 18-08 by Floyd Publications

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Tropical Wave Savings!

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Contents Table of

focusplantcity.com / Issue 18-08 / August 2019

LOCAL

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S P O T L I G H T

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F E AT U R E

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This month, enjoy touching stories of youth in our community facing challenging odds and how with the support of friends and neighbors, these youth have celebrated their wishes granted.

The Crossing Church is excited to open its doors to an eager Plant City on Sunday, September 15. Located within MadZone, The Crossing Church hopes to fulfill God's vision for Plant City through spiritual revitalization. Meet Campus Pastor and Plant City native Michael Pippin and The Crossing Church Lead Pastor Greg Dumas. Pippin and Dumas discuss the unique multi-campus orientation of The Crossing Church and how the church intends to impact the community through service.

Every August, FOCUS Magazine is proud to present our Business FOCUS issue. You will meet 38 entrepreneurs and discover how they built the businesses that make up our thriving community. PAGE

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WHAT DOES YOUR FUTURE HOLD? Rural America has trusted Farm Credit for over a century. No other lender has the clear understanding of agriculture or the passion and commitment to serve like Farm Credit. You owe it to yourself to work with a lender who understands your business. We’re here to help you grow today and for generations to come. LOANS FOR: • Operating expenses • Farm land

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YOUR HOMETOWN GROCER SINCE 1955

CUSTOM MEATS / GROCERIES / FRESH PRODUCE

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Publisher Mike Floyd - mikef@floydpublications.com Office Manager Candy Owens - cowens@floydpublications.com Account Manager Chandler Workman - chandler@floydpublications.com Managing Editor Cierra Craft - cierra@floydpublications.com Art Director Anthony Sassano - asassano@floydpublications.com Distribution Tony DeVane Staff Writers Cheryl Johnston | Barbara Routen | Sherrie Mueller Anthony Bolesta | Cierra Craft Contributors Gil Gott | Jo-An Lusk | Nate Davis | Candy Owens Natalie Sweet | Wanda Anderson | Heather Davis | Layla Keeler Drawdy

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information. Floyd Publications, Inc. 702 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd.Plant City, FL 33563 Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990 www.focusplantcity.com Standards of accuracy: The goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-warming stories that are accurate from the start. Being human, however, we sometimes make mistakes. Please forgive us. So if you notice anything that is incorrect, then please do not hesitate to contact the editorial department and inform it about the fact error. To do so, call (813) 707-8783 or e-mail editorial@floydpublications.com. The staff will fix the error in a timely manner.

From The Publisher You may have heard rumblings about the future of FOCUS Magazine. Next month, we're unveiling a new look for FOCUS. We hope that you will enjoy the new design, as our team has worked tirelessly to develop and implement a look that's eye-catching, modern, and easy to navigate. One of the most obvious changes, is a gloss cover, our first in 18 years. Within the magazine, you will find long-form features, elegant photography and striking graphics. We have also adopted a new logo and utilize our tagline, "It's About You." Whether you have read FOCUS in print or online at focusplantcity.com, you represent a readership curious in the social happenings, business and people of Plant City. With every story published, we're committed to satisfying that curiosity. We also hope to connect with our clients and local business owners with monthly e-newsletters comprising exclusive content and information. Despite these changes, our values remain the same. FOCUS Magazine will continue to serve as our city's preferred publication for positive, wholesome coverage of our people, businesses and community.

FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants and many local venues. Advertisers warrant and represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. Focus Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All letters and their contents sent to Focus Magazine become the sole property of Floyd Publications, Inc and may be reproduced thereof. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Floyd Publications, Inc. Use or duplication of material used in this publication is prohibited without approved written consent from Floyd Publications, Inc.

Warmest Regards, Mike Floyd PAGE

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BELLY BUSTIN’ BBQ

TALK OF THE TOWN

The Suncoast Credit Union Plant City Pig Jam has announced the official event dates: Friday, November 22 from 5PM to 10PM and Saturday, November 23 from 10AM to 5PM. The two day barbecue competition comprises family fun, live entertainment and of course, the best barbecue around! Mark your calendar and be sure to attend this Plant City tradition!

FOCUS MAGAZINE

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

ART AROUND TOWN

The artwork of local artist Roy Adams is on display at the Bruton Memorial Library until August 31. The display, titled “10-year Retrospective,” includes collages, 4-by-5 foot acrylic paintings, and photography of iconic Plant City landmarks. Adams wants the public to see his art through various mediums and many of the pieces have never before been exhibited for the public. Be sure to check out the collection during library hours and to see more of Adams’ work, visit his website www.printmaker.mysite.com.

Congratulations to Alice and Micheal Stephens on the purchase of SunKissed Tanning and Spa. The new owners have been successful business owners for 18 years and felt that it was time to expand their entrepreneur skills. They loved SunKissed Tanning and Spa and decided to purchase the business to continue to grow their portfolio. Come visit the new owners and wish them the best of luck to continue to support our community businesses.

LET’S READ, PLANT CITY!

GFWC Junior Woman’s Club of Plant City has created a free little library. Two boxes are located at the Boys & Girls Club of Plant City where residents can now take a book and leave a book to help promote literacy within our community, while making reading accessible to everyone. The libraries are housed within boxes donated by FOCUS Magazine and painted by the Juniors. The project was made possible by Delicia Hargrove of BGCPC and Education CSP Chair Erika.

NEW ADVENTURE

Mike Goodwin, owner of Plant City’s O’Brien’s Irish Pub, is now the franchisee of five locations of Bubbakoo’s Burritos. The New Jersey-based eatery offers Mexican cuisine fused with American flavor, including Buffalo Chicken or Sweet Chili Shrimp. The five restaurants will be located throughout Tampa, according to a Facebook post by the brand on June 30. Congratulations to Mike! PAGE

CALLING ALL ARTISTS A Taste of Laura Street, presented by the Improvement League of Plant City, is a local food, music and arts festival at the Historic Bing Rooming House. A Taste of Laura Street is currently accepting 2D and 3D art submissions that celebrate the themes of life, food, festivity and the history/ culture of Laura Street. Entry is $10. For more information, email Jeremy Rivera at jeremyhxc@yahoo.com

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LOCAL

Happy 5th Birthday, Levi Pediatric cancer patient receives birthday surprise from Operation Paying it Forward BY CIERRA CRAFT

these things together, along with board members Gina Rodriguez, Alice and Kim Bullard, Lizette Sarria, and Kayla Drawdy," said Michelle Valdes. Blake Rieder, Delemo's mother, says she was overwhelmed by the love Operation Paying it Forward has for her daughter and her family. "It means the world to us right now," said Rieder. "This is also the first time she has been in a bounce house since she was diagnosed." In January 2019, Valdes shaved her head in solidarity with the organization's recipients and posted the event to Facebook Live. Rieder says the video helped when it came time to cut her daughter's hair short. Delemo likes to rub Valdes' shaved hair and often says "Like me, Ms. Michelle."

"When kids lose their hair, I don't want them to feel alone…" said Valdes. "So long as I am watching over them, I will keep my hair short." When asked what makes Levi Delemo so special, Rieder and Valdes agree: Her contagious smile. "When I am having a bad day, I look at a picture of Levi and it always makes me smile," said Valdes. "I want to see her get better. I want to see her flourish and I want her to pay it forward to someone else. When she's older, I want her to pay it forward- whether it's a small act, a big act, or gesture- that's what Operation Paying it Forward is all about." To learn more about Operation Paying it Forward and its recipients like Delemo, visit operationpayingitforward.com.

Levi Delemo and Michelle Valdes share a special bond. In January 2019, Valdes shaved her head in solidarity with those battling cancer, recorded the transformation and posted it to Facebook Live. Delemo often rubs Valdes’ head and says “Like me, Ms. Michelle.”

ight pink balloons were tied to the back of ten chairs and the table was set with pink plates, party hats with pink tassles, and pink party horns, each featuring unicorns. In the corner, a pink birthday banner was hung and her birthday cake featured the mythological horse with a pink and purple mane. Saturday, July 27 was Levi Delemo's 5th birthday and she asked for a unicorn themed party. "A unicorn party she wants, a unicorn party she gets," said Michelle Valdes, president of Operation Paying it Forward. The nonprofit extends acts of kindness to those in need. The organization is best known for its work supporting pediatric cancer patients and their families. In November 2018, Levi Delemo was diagnosed with Acute Leukemia and Operation Paying it Forward began supporting her and her family shortly after. In June, the

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organization gifted the family with a car to help with transportation to and from appointments. "The unicorn princess has arrived," said Valdes. Delemo steps into the party room, letting out a giggle and a smile from ear to ear. She covered her mouth in excitement and ran over to her cake, pointing out it's colorful piping work. Held at MadZone in Midtown, Delemo and her guests were treated to a day of bouncy houses, slides and games. Then, attendees enjoyed pizza, ate cake and Delemo opened gifts. She received clothes, Barbie dolls and accessories, among other things. When asked her favorite part of her party, Delemo said with a smile, "My birthday cake and my friends here." All expenses and materials were paid for by Operation Paying it Forward and its sponsors. "A secret angel helps me put

Thomas Delemo (top left) and Blake Rieder (right) pose with their daughters Tanner May (left) and Levi Delemo (right). Rieder says the family is overwhelmed by the outpouring of love they have received from Operation Paying it Forward and the Plant City community.

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LOCAL

Maddox Sets Sail:

Wish Granters Destiny Colton (left) and Nick Villano (right) presented Maddox Ray (center) with big news on Saturday, August 10: Maddox and his family will set sail on a Disney Cruise for five days in late August. The presentation was held at Fred’s Market with 35 friends and family in attendance.

Maddox and family take Disney Cruise thanks to Make-A-Wish BY CIERRA CRAFT

t was 7-year-old Maddox Ray’s wish to go on “the big red Mickey boat.” Make-A-Wish Southern Florida made sure that wish came true. On Saturday, August 10, the young man who has been through numerous treatments, surgeries and procedures for Stage 3 Kidney Failure, a result of a spinal cord tumor at birth, was presented with the big news that he and his family are going on a Disney Cruise. The Rays are going to the Bahamas and Castaway Cay in late August. The presentation was held at Fred’s Market and thirty five friends and family members were in attendance.

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Maddox’s dad, Sean, said his son has wanted to go on a Disney Cruise for years and when Make-A-Wish initially asked “what is your wish,” Maddox said a Disney Cruise. Maddox’s mother, Jessi, said she and her family are humbled by the support of everyone in attendance and she is grateful that her family has the opportunity to enjoy the cruise together. “For everything Maddox has been through, he gets a chance to enjoy the cruise and have fun,” said Jessi Ray. “Lots of support from family and friends- and prayer- has helped us.” Wish Granters Destiny Colton

and Nick Villano presented Maddox with the five day cruise package. Colton says Make-A-Wish began planning the trip as early as April 2019. General Manager of Fred’s Market, Judy Connell, expressed gratitude to Villano and Colton for allowing her and her staff to be apart of the special occasion. The wish is more than just a nice gesture. Wishes spark joy and encouragement in the life of a child. Make-A-Wish Southern Florida has granted more than 12,000 lifechanging wishes since 1983 for children who have critical illnesses.

The wish is more than just a nice gesture. Wishes spark joy and encouragement in the life of a child.

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2019 HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FAIR

HARVEST QUEEN SCHOLARSHIP CONTESTANTS By Cierra Craft Headshots by Berry Sweet Memories

The Hillsborough County Fair Harvest Queen Contest is Saturday, September 14 at 5 p.m. in the Exhibit Hall at 215 Sydney Washer Road, Dover, FL 33527. For the second consecutive year, the Harvest Queen Contest will host “Comfort for a Cause.” The drive asks those attending the pageant to bring a fleece blanket for patients at Baycare’s South Florida Baptist Hospital’s Cancer Center receiving chemotherapy treatment. Those who participate in Comfort for a Cause will be given a ticket for admission into the Hillsborough County Fair October 17-20 and October 24-27. “It’s a small token to provide some comfort to those at our local cancer center receiving chemotherapy care,” said Kelli Messick, Harvest Queen Pageant Director. For more information about the pageant and Comfort for a Cause, contact the Fair office at 813-737-3247.

! ts n ta s te on c e th f o Good luck to all

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Elizabeth Eakins

Morgan Nolan

Amanda Clark

McKenna Reid

Danielle Frances

Michaela Carmichael

Anna Tsemba

Kaylee Watson

McKinley Baker

Jacie Crabb

Rebeca McGuin

Olivia Payne

Fallon Lanteigne

Kaylee Bowers

Leah Gainer

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Abi Rippey

Casey Willis

Rebecca Holcomb

Rachel Carter

Isabella Shelton

Kenley Connell

Halie Guthrie

Jessica Tillis

Marissa Zolna

Naomi Donnell

Harlee Miller

Rebecca Council

River Mitchell

Kaiya Scarpo PAGE

T CI ER RA CR AF IN TE RV IE W BY

Sandra Gompf

or the past twenty years, Plant City has been home to Sandra Gompf and her family. Cuban by descent, Sandra was born in New York City and called Queens her home. Her family moved to Miami when she was 11 which was a culture shock. After going through a serious illness as a child Sandra realized she wanted to do something in her life that would help other people. After completing schooling at the University of Miami, Sandra completed her medical training at USF and became a Doctor of Medicine. It was in medical school that she met her husband, Timothy Gompf. Sandra has worked at the James A. Haley VA as the Infections Chief of Infections Disease for over twenty years. Although Plant City is nothing like where Sandra was born or raised, it has become home to her and her husband and their three children who were born and raised here, Philip, Juliana, and William. What is your favorite thing about living in Plant City? I love raising my family in the neighborhood we live in, Charleston Woods, which is on a cul-de-sac. We have wonderful neighbors that feel like family to myself and my family. The downtown area of Plant City is also an area I enjoy with the antique stores, The Corner Store, and events like the Food Truck Rally. It is just such a neat little town. I love that I have been able to watch it grow a little bit. I can see that you are a foodie. If you looked in your fridge right now what would you find? Yes, I am. Right now, I would find gourmet cheese, organic eggs and heavy

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cream for quiche, soups and my coffee. I just made keto brownies. My weakness or favorite type of food would be bread and cheese. What is the last thing you read, heard or saw that inspired you? Right now I am listening to the audio book of Beloved by Toni Morrison who just passed away. I always heard it was a beautiful book so thought what better time to listen to it than now. It is interesting listening to her perspective on life during the time of slavery and seeing it through her eyes. She has a wonderful poetic and melodic voice to listen to. I am really enjoying the book. As a traveler what is one of the favorite places you have traveled to and why? Tokyo, because the people are so nice and polite. They are not selfish and their whole attitude is to be gracious and polite to other people. Even though you are in a bustling and busy city, everything is organized and clean. It is a very peaceful experience. You can find a shrine in a serene bamboo forest in the middle of the city. Tokyo is modern yet traditionalâ&#x20AC;Śand the food is awesome!

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

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LOCAL

Did You Know? BUD CLARK – EVEN THE SKY ISN’T THE LIMIT BY PLANT CITY PHOTO ARCHIVES

City Commissioner “Bud” Clark at City Hall 1987.

hen it comes to aviation, few are as well rounded as Moring P. ‘Bud’ Clark. Born in Plant City in 1921, he wrote in a high school project – “In the heart of man there has always been a desire to fly.” Bud’s first flight was in 1935 and he graduated in 1940 from the U.S. Army Air Corps Airplane Mechanics Technical School after enlisting in 1939. Logging almost 20,000 hours of flight time and 6 million accident-free miles, Bud’s aviation experience is exemplary. Outside the cockpit, Bud was known for his ability to repair planes as well. Prior to his engagement with the business world, Bud served in the U.S. Army Air Force in World War II as a flight engineer and instrument mechanic for the Technical Air Intelligence Unit (TAIU). Based in Australia, the unit was dedicated to the identification and repair of Japanese military aircraft to gain intelligence for the U.S. Air Force. Originally, the United States thought the Japanese Air Force was outdated. The 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor proved this wrong. Thus, the TAIU was developed in the same year to learn about Japanese military aircraft at the start of the Pacific

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War. The unit set out to draw, model, categorize, and name the planes in order to compare them with Allied aircraft and understand their workings. This meant technicians and mechanics like Bud Clark had to dismantle and reassemble captured and damaged Japanese planes to study them. The TAIU worked well at its objectives, successfully developing a sort of “code” naming system for each aircraft based on the aircraft’s purpose. For example – male names were given to fighters and float planes, while female names were given to bombers, reconnaissance aircraft and flying boats. Beyond the ability to identify the aircraft, the soldiers in the unit then worked at being able to understand the secrets of each plane. Due to the lack of many technical manuals for the aircraft – especially English versions – the engineers had to dismantle, study, and rebuild them by figuring it out as they went along. In 1944, U.S. Navy servicemen of the TAIU was reassigned to the Anacostia Naval Air Station outside of Washington, D.C. as the Technical Air Intelligence Center, where they commenced their critical work. Once the war ended,

most of the aircraft worked on by the unit were unfortunately demolished and scrapped. After the war, Bud Clark did not stop his involvement with the aeronautical industry. Around 1947, Bud worked for Lodwick School of Aeronautics in Lakeland, which graduated over 6,000 cadets in its five years of existence. Afterwards, he piloted for Jack Nicklaus Enterprises, Watkins Motor Lines, and Hangar One. He also owned the company Southplane Inc., based out of Plant City. He was the flight division manager and chief pilot for Florida Mining and Minerals, captain and maintenance supervisor for Miss Budweiser Racing Team aircraft, captain and training chief for National Distillers and Chemical Corporation, and was one of the first pilots for Allied Stores. In 1989 he was appointed by governor Bob Martinez to the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority, becoming chairman around 1992. This meant he oversaw Tampa International Airport as well as three general airports, including Plant City’s, and discussing trade opportunities with Guatemalan Lacsa Airlines. Outside of aviation, Bud’s accomplishments and involvements did not stop. He was a city commissioner for Plant City, associate director and president of the Florida Strawberry Festival Association, and was on the board of directors for First Florida Bank. He was Vice President and general manager of the R.M. Fletcher Ford dealership in Plant City from 196576. This was the first Ford dealership in Florida, founded in 1912. It was later known as Wilson Davis Ford, and now Jarrett Scott Ford. His wife, Catherine Fletcher, was a Strawberry Festival queen and chairman of the Festival’s fashion show for thirteen years. Bud was also a member of the board of directors for the Hillsborough Community College Foundation, as well as an instructor for community service at Hillsborough Community College. He

also served on the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, working to create the Plant City Campus of the community college. During his business ventures of the 1970s, Bud helped restore a World War II Corsair fighter and fly it one last time to its current display at the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola. Around the same time, he also served as a founding director for the Sun N’ Fun non-profit corporation. On November 28th, 1996, Bud Clark died and is buried in Oaklawn Cemetery in Plant City, Florida. Sources Lyrics, Logic, and Lullabies – A Small Town Life Well Lived Destiny Fulfilled Find A Grave – Moring Peal “Bud” Clark Jr Plant City Photo Archives & History Center – R.M. Fletcher Motors; The Oldest Ford Dealership in the State of Florida Wikipedia – Second World War Hangar No. 7 Sunbiz Division of Corporations – Southplane Inc. Tampa International Airport – Airport Administration The Courier – Plant City Profile: M.P. (Bud) Clark Robert Mikesh – Made in Japan… Tested in America! (Wings Magazine Issue 12-3 June 1982)

Instrument Technician Moring “Bud” Clark studying lines in nose of captured Japanese war plane at Anacostia Naval Air Station

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WHAT EVERY MAN SHOULD KNOW ABOUT PROSTATE CANCER Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among American men. It occurs mainly in older men, with two out of three men diagnosed at age 65 or older. Prostate cancer can be serious disease but most men do not die from it. 1 in 6 men will be diagnosed during his lifetime. About 238,590 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed. More then 2.5 million American men who were diagnosed at some point in their lives are still alive today. African-American men are about 60 percent more likely to develop prostate cancer in their lifetime than Caucasian or Hispanic men. Men with an immediate blood relative, such as father or brother, who has had prostate cancer are twice as likely to develop the disease. A diet high in saturated fat, as well as obesity, increases the risk of prostate cancer.

813-719-7705 303 North Alexander Street, Plant City, FL (still located with South Florida Baptist Hospital)

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THE CROSSING CHURCH IN THE HEART OF THE CITY WITH THE CITY AT HEART By Cierra Craft | Photos by The Crossing Church

The inevitable truth of the matter is Plant City is growing in a number of ways, including population growth and urban development. With aspiring plans for a mixed-use space in Plant City’s Midtown District and the City’s desire for residential property along I-4, Plant City is forging ahead for a brighter tomorrow. However, Plant City’s social fabric includes roots planted firmly in faith. It is not uncommon, when attending a community event, that prayer follows the introduction of speakers. It is a given that a faith-based music night is a weekly occurrence at the local coffee shop. Faith just comes with the territory; it is this spirit that makes Plant City a charming community. A new church has planted roots in town with the hope of fulfilling God’s vision for Plant City. The Crossing Church is excited to open the doors of its Plant City campus on Sunday, September 15. The church, led by Pastors Greg and Tamara Dumas, has locations in Tampa and Southshore, and now Plant City. Despite its multi-campus orientation, The Crossing Church has one vision: To help people move from stagnation to spiritual revitalization. The Crossing Church- Plant City will co-exist within the same space as the former Kash N’ Kerry-turned-MadZone on Wheeler Street in the heart of the city’s Midtown District. The campus will be led by Pastors Michael and Julie Pippin, longtime Plant City natives; the Pippins are ready to foster care and connection, and to see lives take shape in service to God with the city at heart. In the following pages, meet Pastors Greg Dumas and Michael Pippin, as they talk about how The Crossing Church plans to bring the Gospel to people within the region. Pastor Dumas discusses The Crossing Church’s beliefs and ministries and Pastor Pippin chats about how the new campus will impact the community he loves. PAGE

Pastor Dumas, why did The Crossing Church choose Plant City for its third campus, it’s second in one calendar year? Dumas: We start by hearing God’s leading. Five years ago I drove by, what is now the Madzone building, and even though it sat abandoned, God dropped it in my heart that we would have a campus there one day. I told my team what I felt God saying and we started praying about it. Here we are five years later and it is coming to pass just as God had said. We also began to look at where our church family was coming from. We found that lots of people are driving from Plant City, Valrico, Seffner and even as far as Lakeland to be at the services at The Crossing Church Tampa Campus. We want to best serve the needs of the people in those communities and do so with a little more local flavor for them.

THE CROSS Share a bit about yourself with readers: Dumas: My wife, Tamara and I have been married for 26 years and have been blessed with three amazing children. We have two children living at home, Lainey and Zeke. Our oldest daughter, Toree, married one of our student pastors, Trent Anderson. They have recently made us grandparents for the first time to baby Xander. I have been in ministry full time for 25 years, 14 of which have been at The Crossing. I became pastor when the Pointe Church and Crosstown Community Church merged. I was born in Tampa and grew up in Norman Oklahoma, which is a lot like Plant City. My education includes a Bachelor of Education with a Minor in Science from the University of Missouri, and a Masters of Divinity with an Emphasis in Church Planting from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. My personal desire is to see people grow in their spiritual maturity, through reading the Bible, Prayer, Journaling, experiencing life together through Life Groups and encountering personal Freedom from the Lord daily.

Pippin: I have been married to Julie for 20 years and we’ve served together in full time ministry for 19 of those years. I grew up in the Cork area of Plant City. My grandfather and father were strawberry farmers, my uncle owns an agri-chemical company and my cousins own Astin Farms. So our family is engrained in the farming culture of Plant City. My kids are sixth generation Plant City natives. Our family has such a love for our town. Everyone from my great-grandparents all the way down to my wife and I met and fell in love in this town. My wife’s father was a pastor at an Assembly of God church here in Plant City when we met. I graduated from Plant City High School in 1994, went to Bible college at Lee University (Cleveland, TN), and graduated from USF with a Bachelor’s in Psychology.

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Let’s talk about your family. How involved are your children in The Crossing Church? Dumas: All three of my children serve each week in ministry. In fact, my daughter Toree leads our middle school ministry while our son in law Trent leads the high school ministries at the Tampa Campus. Our middle child, Lainey, is currently leading a portion of our children’s ministry as an intern while earning her bachelor’s degree in our accredited Crossing Bible College. My son, Zeke, serves in the children’s ministry. They have a real passion for God and for His church. Watching our children love the church is so special for me as a parent. At The Crossing Church, we get to see this every week. We see a multi-generational love for the things of God because the church has done such a great job of transitioning each age group. We see kids who love God become teens who discover God. Then we get to watch them become college students who find purpose in God and eventually become adults who disciple the next generation.

Pippin: We have two kids: a 16-year-old son, Cayden, and a 14-year-old daughter, Hailey. They both lead worship in our student ministry where my son plays piano and my daughter sings. My wife is also part of the worship team in the adult services. For me to see my family using the amazing gifts that God has given them to honor Him and inspire others is truly remarkable. We enjoy church as a family and it’s very important to us. We love that our kids choose, on their own accord, to attend and serve at all four services at The Crossing Church Tampa Campus. The other day was a special moment for me when my son looked at me, with sincere eagerness, and said, “Dad, I will be the best servant leader that you have! You can count on me.” They both love the atmosphere and the life long relationships that they have built at church… and so do we. When did you become a Christian? Pippin: I was what you might call a good kid who happened to do some bad things on occasion. Fortunately, my parents had the tenacity to keep me engaging with the church even when it didn’t appear to be working. At 19 years old, God called on me to serve people in ministry. I truly believe that if it wasn’t for my parents tenacity and the steady love of other adults in the church, I don’t think any of this would have happened. That’s the power of

God’s redemption. He has the power to turn any story into an amazing story. I love that I get to be part of bringing that opportunity to a city that I love, to the people I love, and that I grew up with. To bring that here to Plant City is just so exciting for me. This is an opportunity to leave a permanent legacy in a place that means so much to me. To do this in a building where I used to get groceries from and now get to use that space for ministry is pretty cool. I guess that place has been feeding people for a long time. How will The Crossing Church utilize the rooms at MadZone for services? Pippin: The banquet hall will be where we hold the Sunday service at 10:30am. We will transform that space into The Crossing Church with incredible live worship and a life changing message from Pastor Greg, which will be streamed in live from the Tampa Campus to our Plant City campus. For the kids, they’ll have an opportunity to play in the bounce houses while we are checking everyone in, then once check-in is complete, we will start our Crossing Kids church. We have pop-up temporary walls to block the view of the bounce houses and to create some neat spaces inside the room for ministry. We will use the “birthday rooms” for children from birth through 5-years-old. The “laser maze room” will transform into our middle school student ministry. The main church area will also be used for high school ministry on Wednesday nights at 7pm. There will be lots of fun, live worship, relevant messages, and great memories made each week. There are a lot of churches in Plant City. What is The Crossing Church offering that is different from other groups in Plant City? Dumas: We are a spirit-filled, life-giving church where the center of the church is the Bible. With our campuses, we have created a small group community within a large church to make it more communal. People will gather in Life Groups, where they will pray, care, share and experience life together… and have fun. The Crossing Church has found unique ways to help people move from stagnation to spiritual revitalization. One of the primary things we are here to do is to train the next generation on what it means to live an authentic, Christian life and that’s why we place emphasis on reaching them, equipping them and involving them in all we do.

of the other campuses. The reasons for doing this are twofold: First, church data shows that in large rooms of 300 people or more where video projection is present, 7 out of 10 people in the room choose to view the projected image of a live presentation. Second, a pastor’s traditional role often requires more than they are able to give…just ask the Pastor of any church. Conventionally, a pastor’s role is comprised of four major categories 1. Lead 2. Feed 3. Care, and 4. Connect. Part of our strategy is to take those roles and break them into more manageable parts so that they can be more effective. Therefore, my role at The Crossing Church is to Lead and Feed the entire church across campuses and the Campus Pastors’ role is to Care for and to Connect with the congregation at the campus level. Plant City, now on the cusp of the incoming tech corridor, with Midtown coming into fruition, seems to be primed for this kind of ministry expression. We think people will be pleased with a new level of LIVE media teaching coupled with a high touch, high care experience at the campus.

SING Pippin: There are a lot of great churches and we believe that they are all doing what God has called each of them to do. We also feel that desire to accomplish all that He has called us to do. There is a real feeling of “life” that you experience at The Crossing Church. There is connection, sharing, love and family. It’s hard to put the feeling you get here into words but, it’s just “life!” There’s a unique warmness, youthfulness, it’s relevant, and we are in-touch with where people are at in their journey. Everyone has purpose, it’s just a matter of discovering it. Speaking of Life Groups- what are they and what impact do they have on the community? Pippin: A Life Group is defined as a group of friends (new and existing) who get together consistently with the purpose of sharing what God is doing in each other’s lives, creating social environments where friends and family can connect, and actively serving together out in the community. Life Groups give people the opportunity to make an impact on their neighborhood and to become leaders and shepherds in their own community. That’s what Jesus called us to do, so we want to do that, too. What can new members expect when attending The Crossing ChurchPlant City? Dumas: Pastor Michael Pippin, a full team of ministers and servant leaders will be present at the Plant City Campus for all their needs. There will be LIVE worship, LIVE student and children’s ministry, LIVE teaching, LIVE prayer, and of course LIVE relationships. It’s key to note: The messages are exported via a LIVE stream from the Tampa Campus, which is the broadcast campus, to each

What do you enjoy most about serving God and the people of The Crossing Church? Dumas: I love seeing people be surprised when they encounter God in an impossible way and I enjoy seeing people thriving in the face of impossible circumstances. We get to see that every week and it’s very rewarding!

BY THE NUMBERS

3 Campuses: Tampa, Plant City, Southshore

2 new campus locations opened in one year (Southshore and Plant City) 5,500 people in weekly attendance

8,000 in attendance on Easter weekend 10,000 viewing Easter service online around the world $70,000 given to local outreach partners every year PAGE

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FOCUS ON

BUSINESS 1916 Irish Pub

Home Protection Pest Control

Aim Lighting

Hungry Howie’s Pizza

Backbone Construction & Roofing, Inc.

Labor Solutions

Brick House Café

Ole Tampa Cubans

Brokers Title of Tampa, LLC Cameron Financial Management City Pointe Church Crafty Crab Cross Pest Control Dental Associates at Walden Woods Discount Screening, Inc.

Level Seven Graphics Outback Steakhouse Plant City Automotive Plant City Awning & Aluminum Poppell Insurance Raulerson, Castillo and Company CPAS and Consultants, LLC Solution Source Real Estate Services

Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic, P.A.

Tennessee Jane Boutique

Felton’s Meat and Produce Market

The Wooden Spoon Diner

First Response Heating & Cooling Florida Insurance Center Gould’s A/C & Heating Heysek & Kepes Radiation Hillsboro Bank

Thielen Environmental Watson Clinic Creative Flower Designs by Glenn Grace Manor at Hunter’s Creek Linda’s Crab Shack Plant City Sheds

Hillsborough Title

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FOCUSBUSINESS

1916 IRISH PUB Serving Plant City and Lakeland

In 2016, owner Chuck Jamieson, along with co-founders Duke Mendel and Guy Marquis, introduced Plant City to their vision for a unique dining and entertainment experience. The 1916 Irish Pub is filled with rich Irish tradition mixed with a contemporary twist. Marking the centennial celebration of the 1916 Irish Revolution - a revolution to fight for Ireland’s independence from British rule - Jamieson deemed the 2016 grand opening as one of perfect timing. Located at 2309 Thonotosassa Road in the Plant City Crossings business center, 1916 is open daily from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. In Irish Pub style, 1916 offers a wide selection of beverages from soft drinks, craft beers and cocktails to traditional Irish beers and whiskey. The food selection also holds a culinary twist of Irish and Americana. “We take a lot of pride in our food. Not just in the preparation of the food, but also in the ingredients,” states Jamieson. Jamieson notes the sandwiches are made with Boars Head meats and cheeses, the hamburgers are Kobe beef, and the Rueben and Shepherd’s Pie are fan favorites. The pub’s catering company, Second Plate Catering, also offers corporate and personal event catering for both onsite and offsite locations. They provide a mix of casual and fine dining for small gatherings to large groups that is professional, yet affordable and efficient. Along with delicious foods and drinks, 1916 showcases live music, sporting events, and holiday parties. The pub brings many great talents to their stage, including national recording artists and local musicians. Sports fans will enjoy this year’s NFL Sunday Ticket on the many big screens throughout the pub. And when it comes to St. Patrick’s Day and New Year’s Eve, the pub puts on a celebration to remember. This year, Jamieson, Mendel and staff celebrate three years in Plant City. Jamieson appreciates the community and its people for making 1916 Irish Pub a success. And with such success, Jamieson is bringing the Irish theme to Lakeland’s Cleveland Heights Golf and Country Club located at 2900 Buckingham Avenue. Recently opening on July 17, the new facility operates daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Lakeland’s 1916 Irish Pub will offer the same great beverage and food selection, live entertainment and sporting events as the Plant City location. Second Plate Catering will also be offering catering onsite and offsite. PAGE

1916 Irish Pub recently kicked off its three year anniversary event on Aug. 7 with live music by Logan Grant and the Show Ponies.

1916 is owned by Chuck Jamieson (left) and co-owned by Duke Mendel (right) and Guy Marquis (not pictured).

“There’s a lot of legacy here,” states Jamieson. The 27-hole golf venue offers 10,000 square feet of dining space, which includes a 3,000 square foot bar area and 7,000 square feet of multiple banquet and event rooms. The main banquet area includes a dance floor and seats about 300 guests. An adjacent windowed banquet hall is great for smaller events and overlooks the greens. A nearby conference room for about 30 guests serves the needs of business meetings and training seminars with its big screens and audio-visual hookup capabilities. The outdoor mezzanine, perfect for Sunday brunch and cocktail hours, overlooks the golf course and will house a portable bar and multiple televisions.

1916 Irish Pub holds a spot for everyone. Rich in history, it’s more than just a place to enjoy food and drinks with friends and family. It’s also a place to enjoy a beautiful day unwinding after a game of golf or a fun night listening to great music. It started with a date – 1916. It then became a name – 1916 Irish Pub. It then became the only 1916 Irish Pub in America.

When speaking of the recent addition, Jamieson declares, “We have a great chef, Luis Melgar. And we can do any kind of menu development over here. We can do tastings and practice new culinary trends, because we now have the facility to do that.” By joining forces with the City of Lakeland and the golfing community, Jamieson sees the Lakeland addition as a win-win. “We want to complete the golf course’s package for all their tournaments,” states Jamieson. “When people think about the golf course here, they’ll think about the whole food and beverage experience here.” When asked his final thoughts about the new location, Jamieson replied, “We strive to provide a country club experience without the country club pricing.”

FOCUSBUSINESS

AIM LIGHTING

“We Aim to Please”

Have you ever found yourself perusing a store’s lighting aisle, looking for the perfect light fixture or ceiling fan? How about locating the correct light bulb replacements – wattage, base type, lumens? When did lighting needs feel more like a science than a quick trip to the store? Steve Lambert is Plant City’s very own lighting expert. Entering the lighting field in 1974, Lambert brings 45 years of experience and service to all of Eastern and Southern Hillsborough County. Opening Aim Lighting in 1996, Lambert has been helping customers select the right light fixture or ceiling fan for their indoor or outdoor needs. Moving from his two former locations off Highway 92, Steve recently relocated his showroom downtown to 114 South Collins Street. Aim Lighting now shares a parking lot with such businesses as Krazy Kup and the Whistle Stop. When asked about his new location, Lambert smiled and humbly replied, “I like Plant City a lot. People took me in with open arms in 1996. The community has been very supportive throughout the years.” Aim Lighting is a hidden gem in the community. Lambert wants his new customers to come in his front door and say, "Wow! I haven’t seen that before.” With a customer base of people who own buildings, be it residential or commercial, Lambert and his staff have one goal in mind, which is pleasing their customers. “We have some long-standing customers that are home builders which in turn refer their new home owners back to us,” Lambert notes. Outside what is displayed in the showroom, Aim Lighting has access to anything found in their wide range of catalogs or on the internet. They also sale at internet prices or below. Lambert states, “I have a place where customers can come in and look around and see, and still get the internet pricing or less.” With lighting manufacturers in charge of internet pricing, Aim Lighting is able to give customers the confidence of receiving the best deal possible. Because of his experience, Lambert is good at proportion and sizing – on indoor fixtures he usually suggests going smaller and on outdoor fixtures, he suggests going larger. Lambert will guide the buyer on selecting just the correct fixture for the location.

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In addition to being a lighting expert, Lambert is also a skilled craftsman. His showroom holds a display of Trees of Life, which are 12-guage steel wall art pieces handcrafted by Lambert and specially designed for the customer. The trees can be crafted at any dimension and can also be made to sit on a flat surface. “When designing the trees, the customers always share the story behind the trees they are creating,” Lambert explains. “I expect each of them to be an heirloom. No two are exactly alike.” To display their majestic beauty, Lambert has two tall trees mounted outside the showroom entrance. These trees greet guests and give them a glimpse of the splendor they will discover inside. Lambert also provides custom framed mirrors of all shapes and sizes. He will determine the perfect size mirror for its specified location. And his framing talents do not stop with mirrors, for Lambert designs custom framed art pieces as well. Aim Lighting is a full-service lighting company with a quaint showroom and a huge heart, thanks to owner Steve Lambert and staff. They stand by their motto – “We Aim to please.” Aim Lighting is here to take the science out of your lighting needs. Fun Facts about Steve Lambert, owner of Aim Lighting.

Lambert recently celebrated his 20th year at the Florida Strawberry Festival. “I am so appreciative that they continue to let me come out,” declared Lambert. His display booth is located right up from the St. Clement "Make Your Own" Strawberry Shortcake booth. Lambert is known for his strong life principles and sayings, mainly because he lives by such core values. One worth mentioning is a favorite with his children. Great minds discuss ideas. Average minds discuss events. Small minds discuss people. Lambert has a crinkled-up item sitting on a small table by the front door. Ask him to tell you the story behind that one.

Aim Lighting has a full spectrum of products and services to meet your needs. Lighting Ceiling Fans Light Bulbs Chandeliers Pendant Lights

Outdoor Lights Track Lighting Medallions Crystal Chandeliers Mirrors

Custom Framed Mirrors Table Lamps Floor Lamps Lamp Repair Light Fixture Repairs

FOCUSBUSINESS

BACKBONE CONSTRUCTION & ROOFING, INC. It’s necessary to upkeep the facade of your home or business in order to contend with the harsh Florida weather: sun, rain, wind and hail. Your property takes the brunt of the damage, so it’s important to maintain it, get it repaired when needed or have components replaced when it’s damaged. Backbone Construction & Roofing can do it all. Plant City-native and third generation roofer Nathan Garrett and his team at Backbone Construction & Roofing treat each job with professionalism and care, whether it’s a residential, industrial or commercial property. Backbone was founded in July 2016 and today continues to offer routine roofing maintenance, replacement and repair, new construction, inspection, broken or missing shingle replacement, storm response on shingles, metal roof systems, and flat roof systems. “It took a few months of door knocking and leaving flyers throughout numerous neighborhoods to start getting phone calls coming in,” said Garrett. “After all that with the quality of our work we have had steady phone calls since. We’re definitely blessed.” In 2019, Backbone expanded its services and officially became Backbone Construction & Roofing, Inc. The company now offers new construction, renovations, and additions of residential, commercial and industrial properties. “We expanded to Backbone Construction & Roofing, Inc, to help the community with more projects other than roofing,” said Garrett. “We can now do anything with homes from the ground up.” The company serves Plant City, Lakeland, Tampa, Brandon and the surrounding areas and offers free estimates for general contracting and roofing jobs. Backbone Construction & Roofing uses high quality materials with satisfaction guaranteed. The crew undergoes continuous education to remain up-to-date with the latest industry knowledge and equipped with high-quality materials and tools, from Owens Corning, one of the industry's most renowned materials suppliers. The company is family-owned and operated. When customers call Backbone Construction & Roofing, they can expect to speak with Garrett directly about their project needs. He makes it a point to visit each job site personally. “We pay attention to detail and if there’s ever a problem with our work, we remedy it ASAP,” said Garrett. PAGE

Backbone Construction & Roofing was built on the values of integrity, value and trust. In keeping with the company’s values, Backbone Construction & Roofing gave away a new roof in December 2018. The company has decided to make the roof giveaway an annual event. Garrett said: “We wanted to give back to the less fortunate in our community. Let’s be honest roofs aren’t cheap and a lot of people are on hard times. We want to help those people. The response was overwhelming we had over 65 nominations and it took weeks to narrow it down to what we thought was the most deserving. I narrowed them down to about 5 then let a team of people read those five and help me narrow it down to the winners.” Now through December 13, the company is accepting nominations for a family in need of a new roof for the 2019 Roof Giveaway. Nominations can be entered at backboneconstructionandroofing.com and the nominee must reside within Plant City to qualify for the contest. The company has partnered with ABC Supply Co. Inc, Owens Corning, and a few anonymous contributors, to make this giveaway possible. Backbone Construction & Roofing is a member of The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and Business Networking International. In February, Backbone Construction & Roofing was named the 2019 FOCUS Magazine Readers’ Choice for Best Roofing Company. The company is Screened & Approved, as well as Top Rated by Home Advisor and has an A+ Rating with the Better Business Bureau. Customers across Central Florida can’t say enough good things about Backbone Construction & Roofing. Billy Pearsall of Lakeland said: “The communication was excellent with not only Nathan but his crew as well. They worked patiently with me on some unique requests and still finished the job in a timely manner! Overall, The quality of work and material is great, staff is friendly and knowledgeable, the owner cares about your satisfaction and the price fell right in the middle of the market which is where I like it to be. I’m giving them a 5 star only because there’s not a higher option.” Kelsey Spell said Backbone helped her family resolve issues with leaks. “Nathan and his crew recently redid my family's roof and they did an outstanding job!! Before we had several leaks throughout our home and now not one drip. They were timely with their work and cleaned up after the job was done. Fantastic work.” Nathan Garrett is proud of the strong, long-term relationships Backbone Construction & Roofing has built with homeowners and business owners. Backbone Construction & Roofing provides the strength you need and the character you can trust. Call Backbone Construction & Roofing today for a free estimate!

813-580-8611 | admin@backboneconstructionandroofing.com #CBC1263027 | #CCC1331030 | Mon-Fri 8AM to 5PM PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

BRICK HOUSE CAFÉ Brick House Café has been serving the residents of Plant City, surrounding communities and passers-by for over 11 years. Shari Sarris, its owner and chef, started this family-centric business with her son, Spiros (pronounced “Spear-oh”), in 2008. Originally located at the old brick Pizza Hut on Prosser Street, they were forced to relocate to a larger building in downtown in 2017. After a full renovation to convert Plant City’s first jailhouse to a fullservice restaurant, Brick House Café had found its new home and reopened its doors without missing a beat. Brick House Café is best known by its loyal customers for its savory hamburgers. It has been awarded FOCUS Magazine's Readers’ Choice Award for "Best Burger" for the past five consecutive years. Whether it’s a simple hamburger, a sumptuous bacon cheeseburger, or the appetitebusting monster double cheeseburger, patrons rave over the Brick House’s fresh handmade patties and perfectly grilled buns. While Brick House may have received the most accolades for its burgers, the Café was originally established and known for its breakfast. In 2015 and 2017, Brick House won the "Best Breakfast" title. Customer favorites for the most important meal of the day (served anytime!) include the platesized pancakes (plain, blue berry, or chocolate), pecan waffles, and overstuffed omelets. For the early-morning weekday risers, the "Jail House Special" offers one egg with bacon, grits, toast and coffee for $5.99. With these great breakfast options, Brick House is working hard to reclaim its "Best Breakfast" title for the 2020 awards season. The newest addition to Brick House Café is “Desserts By Mellisa.” Shari's daughter-in-law, Sprios’s wife, has been making homemade desserts and specialty cakes for friends and family for years. Once Brick House settled into its new home, the Café knew homemade desserts was a must have item to offer. Mellisa enjoys baking cakes the most, but also enjoys trying out new recipes to offer seasonal varieties or for specialty orders. Her Italian Cream Cake, Pineapple Pie, and Coconut Cream Pie are the top three customer favorites. Brick House and Mellisa are hoping the increase in demand for her desserts will bring a new award home for "Best Desserts." While there is so much value placed on the continued loyalty of long-time patrons and the recognition it continues to receive, Brick House Café values most its roots of being a family-owned and operated business. Shari and Spiros make every meal to order, with some homemade recipes passed down from older generations. You will always find either one (both most days) in the kitchen doing what they do best — providing quality food to all who walk through those inviting front doors. PAGE

Beyond the burgers, breakfasts and delectable desserts, the future of the Brick House Café is looking great! Coming up for Thanksgiving week 2019 is the 2-year anniversary of the grand-reopening in the new location. Also in store for the Café are some new renovations and some exciting new menu changes. Stay tuned for details! Follow The Brick House Café on Facebook to keep up with all their latest news, updates, and promotions. Visit the Brick House Café website at www.brickhousecafepc.com for restaurant information, menus, and details for “Desserts by Mellisa.”

The Brick House Cafe staff pride themselves in offering friendly customer service and classic home cooked meals to patrons.

FOCUSBUSINESS

BROKERS TITLE OF TAMPA, LLC Gives Peace of Mind

People may not understand what Brokers Title of Tampa does or realize its importance—until they get a claim of lien or judgment against their property. Brokers Title of Tampa works diligently to ensure the homeowner’s property is free and clear, reducing the worry that can come with buying or selling real estate. Brokers Title issues a title insurance policy that insures homeowners the entire time they own their property. Buying or selling real estate can be stressful; therefore, it is vital to have a company like Brokers Title of Tampa overseeing the process and looking out for the consumer. Brokers Title of Tampa can do this successfully and efficiently because they are a third-party, independent, full-service brokerage that handles commercial, residential, short sale, refinancing, mobile homes and land sales. They make sure everyone involved in the process—realtor, lender, seller, buyer—does their job correctly or provides the necessary information required, with the consumer’s best interests at heart. Chase Crawford, of Plant City, is the new manager and closer in the Brokers Title of Tampa Plant City office. Debbi Williams, also of Plant City, is lead processor and assistant manager. Crawford’s mother, Tracey Spanola, former Brokers Title of Tampa Plant City manager, is now in charge of the Tampa office. Crawford grew up in Plant City and graduated from Plant City High School. He returned to his roots in 2014, after deploying twice to Afghanistan with the U.S. Air Force and serving on a Military Funeral Honors detail. (These teams perform solemn ceremonies with “Taps” and the presentation of the American flag for deceased active-duty military, retirees, veterans and lostin-combat troops). After he was out of active duty, in 2014, he looked for a job geared to his unique talents and experience. He was accepted by the police force but decided that, for the sake of his wife, Madison Crawford, and their daughters, he would pursue something less dangerous. Spanola suggested he try working for her. “I started as receptionist and hated it at first,” he said. “I didn’t like it, didn’t want to do it, there was nothing fun about it. She made me start at the bottom. I felt I was higher than that—a little arrogant. I worked up to becoming a junior processor, then a lead processor, which I did for two years. Then I started studying for my license to be a title agent and took and passed the test.” PAGE

Manager Chase Crawford

Once he became a junior processor, he started enjoying it. The personal interaction appealed to him—talking with the clients, building relationships, communicating and meeting face to face. He became interested in becoming a title agent and built a following, an investor portfolio. That also propelled him to get his license, to invest in his own future and the stability of his family. Crawford, a father of four daughters, Annistyn Hope, 1, Adalynn Faith, 4, Kensley Grace, 6, and Emma Jade, 6, knows firsthand the importance of stability. “Kids need a stable home and secure environment to grow up in,” he said. “That starts with the home you grow up in, where your foundation is set. You need a title company like Brokers Title to have your best interest at heart, to allow you to be stress free, so you can focus on your family like you should.” Crawford said, “Now that I’m back in my hometown of Plant City, working in the community as a professional, my assistant manager, Debbi, and I plan to use our Plant City roots as a foundation to better the Brokers Title Plant City office as we work and grow with the community. Brokers Title of Tampa is all about family, the community, our professionalism, the importance of our clients and integrity of our partners. That’s everything to us.”

212 N. Collins Street, Suite B | Plant City, FL | 813.704.2488 | ccrawford@brokerstitle.net www.brokerstitle.net PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

CAMERON FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT “I like helping people. I think people are inherently good and I enjoy helping them… it’s in my blood to help people.” Michael Cameron enjoys helping others. From teaching clients how to invest their money, volunteering with a civic organization or helping neighbors clean up after a storm, Michael Cameron is there, ready to help those in need. The Plant City-native serves the community in a number of ways. One being through his career, as the president of Cameron Financial Management. The company provides assistance regarding: Stocks Bonds Mutual Funds Annuities Life Insurance College savings plans And other investments “Whether you have $1,000 or $1 million," Cameron looks forward to helping you make sound financial decisions. Cameron has 18 years of experience in financial advising. Since beginning his career in July 2001 with Edward Jones, he has helped clients through the full-market cycle, from the 9/11 tragedy and the boom of 2007 through the recession of 2008-2009 to today. Cameron credits the strength and growth of his business to the “lasting relationships with quality individuals. Over the years they have trusted me to speak with friends, relatives and colleagues about investment management services,” he continued. “As my clients know, each relationship is afforded the highest standards of confidentiality, as well as thoughtful and courteous service. I only offer investment advice once I’ve done my homework and thoroughly understand an individual’s needs.” Cameron Financial Management is affiliated with LPL Financial, the largest independent broker-dealer in the U.S. This partnership allows him the advantages of a nationwide company and the flexibility to offer personal, individualized service with a hometown touch. “Clients can have me on the local basis but with the benefits of a big company behind me,” said Cameron.

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Cameron wants to dispel the myth that only the rich can make investments. “I help everyone from the bag boy to the store manager, from students to doctors,” said Cameron. “You only need two things to invest: Time and money. You don’t need a lot of money or have to be rich. I enjoy helping young people grow their money so they can have more money later in life.” Cameron is a member of the Plant City Toastmasters, an organization dedicated to helping members develop their communication and leadership skills. Cameron was once “terribly shy” and joined the organization to develop public speaking skills. “I found there were people in the group that I looked up to,” said Cameron. These relationships and the tracks offered by the organization, helped Cameron become the business professional he is today. In fact, Michael Cameron is the only recipient of Toastmasters’ Golden Strawberry Award. Within the Toastmasters organization, speakers are encouraged to choose their own writing topic. Ms. Pat Carr chose to prepare a speech of presenting an award to a recipient. In doing so, she made the Golden Strawberry Award- a styrofoam “strawberry,” covered in gold craft glitter with a green glitter stem. The homemade award is attached to a small wood plaque and Carr chose Cameron as the recipient. Despite the simple creation and casual presentation, Cameron proudly displays the award on a shelf in his office as a reminder of his involvement in the communications organization.

“I help everyone from the bag boy to the store manager, from students to doctors,” said Cameron. “You only need two things to invest: Time and money. You don’t need a lot of money or have to be rich. I enjoy helping young people grow their money so they can have more money later in life.”

He is active in the First United Methodist Church of Plant City and the Plant City Lions Club. He serves on the Board of the Plant City Safety Employees’ Retirement System. He is an active member of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, and runs the judging of the Suncoast Credit Union Plant City Pig Jam. Cameron also served as the 2015 Chairman of the Board for the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce. He was named Citizen of the Year in 2014 and the Chamber has presented numerous awards to Cameron over the years, including Growing Business of the Year (2008) and Ambassador Team of the Year (2010, 2012 and 2014). He also received the Good Egg award in 2003. When he isn’t helping customers grow their money or participating in community events, Cameron can be found kayak fishing, traveling, and being outside, including landscaping. He is an avid collector of Weber grills and enjoys cooking, eating, and helping at BBQ competitions. “Competitions make great fundraisers for various charitable causes and individuals battling disease or tragic circumstances. Seems like food with a purpose tastes so much better, too.” Cameron is also especially grateful for his Client Relations Manager, Shawnia McNary Kummelman, a Plant City native who assists his clients in Suite 109 at 110 West Reynolds Street. For a complimentary financial portfolio review and consultation—on a nopressure, no-obligation basis—contact Michael Cameron, your trusted hometown advisor.

110 W Reynolds St #109 | Plant City, FL 33563 | (813) 759-8485 Mon- Fri 9AM to 4PM PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

CITY POINTE CHURCH City Pointe Church began when a small group of friends dreamed of a church that could be more than what they were used to experiencing. Almost four years later they are amazed at what God has done as they gather each week in worship at 503 N. Palmer Street. They will celebrate their fourth anniversary in February of 2020 and are looking ahead to making even more of an impact in the days to come. Affiliated with the Association of Related Churches (arcchurches.com), this growing congregation is led by the missions-minded, fifth-generation Plant City native, Pastor Scott McIntosh. A small but very talented church staff and an army of happy volunteers share in the work of the congregation that desires to significantly impact its community, state, nation and world. “Plant City needed a contemporary interdenominational church that goes after the lost, the prodigal, and the people who love them,” McIntosh explained. “With our emphasis on acceptance and grace, we have an eclectic, sweet spirit of family diversity with a relational approach to helping people know Christ. We want to be a place God’s love and presence can be experienced, where everyone feels at home, loved, comfortable, embraced, and definitely not judged. Ultimately, we love people just as they are, but love them too much to let them stay that way.” The vision of the church is to, “...love the broken, the messed up, and the people the world gives up on. No perfect people are allowed here, but all that come are chasing hard after God. We want to be a church that those who have given up on church flock to, because they begin to hope and dream again. City Pointe Church is a place of honor, care, healing, redemption, training, equipping, and sending. We want to address the needs of the average non-church goer and have already seen lives radically transformed through prayer, worship, and by experiencing God – and we want to see even more!” The pastoral staff, elders, and trustees believe it’s important that the services, discipleship classes and small groups provoke exciting conversations focusing on real life change each week. If numbers tell the story, that mission is being accomplished, with more than 320 decisions for Christ in the last 40 months. In addition to the regular ongoing practical efforts to meet needs and more than $140,000 donated to local causes, the church recently ministered hurricane relief in Panama City and delivered more than 100 backpacks overflowing with school supplies to Marshall Middle School. City Pointe Church believes, “If we see a need, let’s work to meet the need.”

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City Focus City Pointe Church focuses particularly on a contemporary model of ministry. Leaders desire the worship experiences and activities to be “awesome for all ages, especially the next generation, where kids love it so much…they bring their parents to experience it.” As an interdenominational church, the goal is that members recognize more of their similarities than their differences and to be a church that gives back to its city. Church guidelines include: In essential beliefs, we have unity. (Ephesians 4:4-6) In non-essential beliefs, we have liberty. (Romans 14: 1,2,12,22) In all our beliefs, we show charity. (I Corinthians 13:2) City Pointe Church welcomes everyone with the understanding that “people need to belong before they believe.” All are invited to join the joyful community that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but takes very seriously God’s call to shine His light into a dark world.

South Florida and Masters of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Texas, where he met his wife Elizabeth. Married almost 15 years, they have two children, Isabella and Samuel. As a survivor of the shooting 20 years ago at Wedgwood Baptist Church in Texas, Pastor Scott is currently building a tool to care for other shooting survivors across the nation. With a three-pronged approach surrounding his first book, Soul Survivor – How to Survive the Heartaches of Life With Your Soul Intact, on September 8 he begins a 4-Sunday sermon series focused on freedom and healing through Christ and introduces the small-group curriculum and website (soulsurvivors.club). Filled with survivor stories of hope and practical tools, this will help those who have walked through difficult times. A Soul Survivor Conference focused on freedom and healing is also being planned for March, 2020. Soul Survivor is available on Amazon.com Throughout his walk with Christ, Pastor Scott has journeyed on missions to Malawi (Africa), South Africa, Australia, the Bahamas, the former Soviet Union, Brazil, China, India, and Haiti and studied at Regents Park College in Oxford. He enjoys creating lively messages that cause people to think deeper and engage with the Bible so they grow in God. He believes the Gospel’s truths are timeless, but how believers communicate those is critical in this day and culture. Through media, object lessons, balloon art, and even a 400-pound deadlift demonstration onstage, Pastor Scott is regularly helping his church to connect the dots between words on a page and real life in the world, so all who attend can become difference makers for Christ. Elizabeth McIntosh serves as Director of Missions. With double Master’s degrees from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Religious Education and Ministry-Based Evangelism, she is passionate about Jesus and His transforming work once people enter into relationship with their Creator. Worship Pastor Nick Herbert and his wife Holly and team invite everyone to sing praises to God at each service. The Herberts also perform as Dust to Dust and the singer/songwriter’s first single, “You Give, I Live” has just been released. Come to Enjoy Services and Upcoming Events In addition to Sunday services at 10:30 a.m., City Pointe hosts quarterly Worship Wednesday evenings where local churches and pastors gather for uplifting music unity, and praise. Additionally, through the life-changing relationships formed in small groups, people connect to study, learn and share together.

“Come and join our interdenominational, intergenerational, multi-ethnic church that’s a glimpse of heaven,” McIntosh offers. “Our hope is that you’ll discover a place where Christ is exalted, the Holy Spirit is released, and the Father is honored in everything we do. Through His word and our people, you will know you are loved.” Worship Leaders Since inviting Christ into his heart at age seven, Pastor Scott McIntosh has spent his life learning more about Him, experiencing His grace, and sharing Him through a variety of creative means. Called into the ministry at age 20, he was ordained at First Baptist Church of Plant City and was licensed at Cedar Grove Baptist, Turkey Creek Baptist, and also served for ten years before City Pointe at The Crossing Church in Brandon. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of

Save the dates: September 13, 2019 – “The Wonder of Love- Ultimate Date Night Tour (JOY FM Radio) with Jay and Laura Laffoon; More than 700 attended last year. Purchase tickets at https://jayandlaura.com/ultimate-date-night/ or https://florida. thejoyfm.com/events/box-office/ultimate-date-night/. January 23rd, 2020 – True Girl Conference for ‘tweens age 7-12 with the JoyFM (formerly Secret Keeper Girl); 800 attended last year. Ticket details coming soon. January 2020 – The new Spectrum ministry for those with autism or special needs at City Pointe Church is now team-building/planning/fundraising for upcoming monthly Saturday night dates. Contact Jerry Tadlock at jtadlock@ citypointechurch.com for more info. Bring your family and friends to City Pointe Church soon for an experience and difference everyone will love.

503 N. Palmer Street | Plant City, FL 33563 | (813) 441-6693 | citypointechurch.com Service Time: Sundays at 10:30 AM PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

CRAFTY CRAB

Brings Fresh Seafood and Fun to Brandon

The man at the helm of the new Crafty Crab seafood restaurant, 704 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, is Steve Beltz, of Lakeland. His roughly 20 years of experience as sous chef and executive chef in restaurant kitchens prepared him well for this first voyage out to the front of the house to run an eatery the way he wants to. Although Crafty Crab stores are franchised to individual owners, each restaurant is unique. General managers have the freedom to create their own specials and add their own flair. “They’ve given me the keys to the car,” Beltz said. “I’m helping the community become familiar with the brand, advertising and maximizing its social media exposure. I’m improving the store’s landscaping, exterior lighting, working on the parking lot, building the operating structure and shift duties, like having staff check bathrooms every 30 to 60 minutes, empowering them to fix issues they see. A clean bathroom is the sign of a clean kitchen.” The gregarious Beltz said, “Customer service is our number one priority, for without customers, this would just be an empty building with walls.” He enjoys talking with and listening to customers, especially as the restaurant navigates its first year in Brandon. He must be doing something right. People often wait up to an hour for a table on weekend nights. Crafty Crab is known for its boils. King, snow or Dungeness crab legs, lobster tail, shrimp, crawfish, clams or mussels are weighed and prepared to the customer’s preferences. After selecting the meat, there are a variety of seasonings—crafty Cajun, buttery garlic, lemon pepper, or the BOOM!!! which combines all of them—to choose from, and customers can request the amount of spicy heat they desire. Fried shrimp, catfish, tilapia, chicken-tender and oyster baskets are served with a choice of a side. The menu includes calamari, wings, oysters, scallops and gumbo, too. Any meal can be capped with a slice of cheesecake or key lime pie. Lunch specials are offered 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Crafty Crab sells domestic and imported beer, craft beer on tap (Free Dive, from Coppertail Brewing Co.) and wine. Their signature beach wines contain eight percent alcohol and no added preservatives or sulfites. They PAGE

are created in Land O’Lakes, from California New World grapes. Once the wine is ready, fruit is infused into it to make Peach Perfect, Orange Marmalade Rosé, Blueberry, Blackberry, Strawberry Sensation and Key Lime. A TouchTunes pay-per-play jukebox plays customers’ favorite songs (explicit lyrics have been removed), a claw game machine provides a diversion for kids who have to wait for a table, and large-screen televisions display requested sports or news channels. Kids, under age 10, eat free all-day Tuesday, up to two children per paid adult. Wednesday is senior night, with a 10-percent discount for those ages 60 and older. Every day, from open to close, active-duty military and veterans with ID get a 10-percent discount. Happy hour is from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, with signature wines $1 off per glass and 10 percent off per bottle, buy-one-get-one-half-off other wines per glass or 20 percent off per bottle, draft beers buy-one-get-one-half-

off per glass or domestic buckets at five bottles for $13.50 and imported beer buckets at five bottles for $17. Reservations are accepted Monday through Thursday but not on the weekends, when only call-ahead is available. Beltz is entertaining several ideas to make the Crafty Crab experience even more fun. He hopes to launch a seafood trivia game that can earn knowledgeable customers a 10-percent discount off their bills. Also in the works is the possibility of randomly hiding $20 Crafty Crab gift cards in the disposable crab bibs. Who feels lucky? “Crafty Crab fills a need in the Brandon area,” said Beltz. “People tell me they love the feeling when they enter and are greeted enthusiastically, see us upbeat and laughing, watch us working to accommodate their needs. Our seafood is fresh, our sauces speak for themselves, and we are competitive in the neighborhood in price and flavor.”

704 E. Brandon Blvd | Brandon, FL 33511 | (813) 278-5111 Sunday–Thursday: noon–10 p.m. | Friday–Saturday: noon–11 p.m. | Last seatings are a half hour before closing PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

CROSS PEST CONTROL

Great Service... Affordable Prices

Bugs are no laughing matter. They are a nuisance in your home and business and can be a hazard to your health and property. Before you “Bug Out,” give Cross Pest Control a call. Centrally located in Plant City, Florida, the licensed and insured family-owned business has been helping residential, commercial, and industrial neighbours in East Hillsborough, Southeast Pasco, Polk, Pinellas and Manatee counties with their pest control needs. THROUGH THE 67 YEARS James D. Cross began Cross Pest Control in 1952 and in 1959, J.D. Merrill began as partner in the pest control company. Together they launched the Bradenton location in 1973 and in 1976, Merrill purchased Cross’s interest. In the early 1980s, the Largo office was opened, expanding the Cross Pest Control throughout Tampa Bay. FRIENDSHIP LEADS TO A TRUSTED OWNERSHIP JD Merrill and Terry Ballard had a lifelong friendship and business/ community relationship. They served the people of Plant City as elected City Commissioners and each as elected Mayor. Both were long-time members of the Florida Strawberry Festival Board of Directors and members of the Plant City Rotary Club. In early 2000, Ballard began to operate the business and purchased the company in 2008. Today, this Ballard family business is proud to be managed and operated just as Cross has always run on the principals of honesty, integrity and treating the customer like we are family. WHY CHOOSE CROSS? Cross is proud to say that its trusted staff is the heart & soul of the day to day business by taking care of each customer's individual need. Lucky for Cross and the customer, when employees come here, they stay and Cross hopes that says something about the company’s operation. Technicians treat you, your home or business with respect and provide the best service. Utilizing an assortment of odorless, eco-friendly pest control options for the safety of your family, pets and environment, they can handle everything from annoying bugs, to subterranean termites, to disease -carrying rodents and roaches. Cross Pest Control offers indoor and outdoor pest control service. Best of all, Cross Pest Control options won’t break the bank. Cross’s work includes a six month guarantee once services

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have been provided. The company’s focus is always on customer service and satisfaction. Our motto is affordable prices with great service. That great service sometimes is just the advice Cross can give over the phone. The company also give estimates over the phone before a technician comes out.

When Cross earns customer confidence & satisfaction, the staff is very thankful for word of mouth advertising that grants trust and value to the company. Call today for a free estimate!

CUSTOMERS LOVE CROSS With 67 years of experience, Cross Pest Control has an incredible reputation as one of Plant City’s top pest control companies. Customers note the prompt, courteous, professional service they receive when Cross Pest Control’s technicians are on site. Karen Meehan rated the company five stars, stating: “We have been with Cross Pest for 13 years and have nothing but great things to say about them and highly recommend their services. We have been dealing with Casey for the 13 years and have to add that he is a true professional and a gentleman that goes above and beyond any needs we have had over the years!” Erin Gilligan recommends Cross Pest Control, sharing that her she has not had ants or roaches since the company began servicing her home in July 2018.

In Loving Memory of: Terry O. Ballard October 1, 1936 - June 22, 2016 Your life was a blessing, Our memories a treasure! You are loved beyond words And missed beyond measure!

606 S. Evers Street | Plant City, FL 33563 | (813) 754-1571 www.crosspestcontrols.com PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

DENTAL ASSOCIATES AT WALDEN WOODS For the convenience of having all your dental needs serviced under one roof, visit Dental Associates at Walden Woods. Here in one office and using the most current technology, the talented team supporting Dr. Ray Gutierrez and Dr. Helen Hoveida helps in providing comprehensive exams, emergency care, extractions, teeth cleaning, periodontal/gum disease treatment, crowns, bridges, and root canal therapy. The dentists offer general and cosmetic dentistry, as well as oral surgery. Cosmetic dentistry options include dental crowns and bridges, veneers, white fillings, Lumineers, and Invisalign® straightening. A revolutionary orthodontic process, Invisalign® uses virtually invisible, customized, clear aligners to correctly position teeth, a benefit cosmetically and to one’s overall health. Additionally, Dr. Gutierrez is certified for IV sedation, which brings comfort to those who are a little anxious about pain or major dental work, such as restorative dentistry. Dental implants and dentures are also specialties here. To ensure clients receive a good first impression, first-time patients receive a $59 special offer, including a routine cleaning, exam, and a full set of x-rays—all for a $300 value! The office accepts most dental insurances, too. “People are able to try us out for an affordable price at their first visit before deciding whether to become a patient or not,” said Jean Ann Davenport, Regional Manager of Operations. “We’re proud to say that most do!” Patients are the heart of the Dental Associates at Walden Woods practice, which is evidenced in that the practice opened more than 20 years ago now serves its second and third generation in local families. For the past eight years, Dr. Ray Gutierrez has been helping the Dental Associates at Walden Woods office provide personable family care for patients. During that time, the University of Florida graduate has also been helping to expand its services with state-of-the-art technology. Of the work he loves, he especially enjoys “the interaction with patients,” explaining, “I like to see the different families and people continuously throughout the year. You know, establishing those relationships.” The close-knit staff and patients act like a giant family, too. "I love the family practice and focus, [where] we can do everything and help a variety of people," he said. "We always go the extra mile to make sure the patient is taken care of." PAGE

University of Florida graduate Dr. Helen Hoveida, in her sixth year with the practice, shared, “I love working with Dr. Ray in our family-oriented office and am grateful to be part of an amazing team and town…love the community and love helping patients. My passion is to see their smiling faces and to know we’ve helped to enhance those smiles.” Roxanne Ross, shared her five-star satisfaction on social media, as many often do. “…I look forward to going! Dr. Ray, so caring and careful, takes dental anxiety into account and relieves it—successfully…The excellent hygienists remember my particular needs...The office staff makes me feel like family, making every call a chat as well. Every aspect of Dental Associates at Walden Woods is exemplary and worthy of the highest praise…” To experience skilled care in a friendly dental practice, schedule an appointment with Dental Associates at Walden Woods soon. Visit the office or connect online at Facebook and www.dentalassociateswaldenwoods. com. This team can definitely brighten your smile! For the convenience of having all your dental needs serviced under one roof, visit Dental Associates at Walden Woods. Here in one office and using the most current technology, the talented team supporting Dr. Ray Gutierrez and Dr. Helen Hoveida helps in providing comprehensive exams, emergency care, extractions, teeth cleaning, periodontal/gum disease treatment, crowns, bridges, and root canal therapy. The dentists offer general and cosmetic dentistry, as well as oral surgery. Cosmetic dentistry options include dental crowns and bridges, veneers, white fillings, Lumineers, and Invisalign® straightening. A revolutionary

orthodontic process, Invisalign® uses virtually invisible, customized, clear aligners to correctly position teeth, a benefit cosmetically and to one’s overall health. Additionally, Dr. Gutierrez is certified for IV sedation, which brings comfort to those who are a little anxious about pain or major dental work, such as restorative dentistry. Dental implants and dentures are also specialties here. To ensure clients receive a good first impression, first-time patients receive a $59 special offer, including a routine cleaning, exam, and a full set of x-rays—all for a $300 value! The office accepts most dental insurances, too. Patients are the heart of the Dental Associates at Walden Woods practice, which is evidenced in that the practice opened more than 20 years ago now serves its second and third generation in local families. For the past eight years, Dr. Ray Gutierrez has been helping the Dental Associates at Walden Woods office provide personable family care for patients. During that time, the University of Florida graduate has also been helping to expand its services with state-of-the-art technology. Of the work he loves, he especially enjoys “the interaction with patients,” explaining, “I like to see the different families and people continuously throughout the year. You know, establishing those relationships.”

The close-knit staff and patients act like a giant family, too. "I love the family practice and focus, [where] we can do everything and help a variety of people," he said. "We always go the extra mile to make sure the patient is taken care of." University of Florida graduate Dr. Helen Hoveida, in her sixth year with the practice, shared, “I love working with Dr. Ray in our family-oriented office and am grateful to be part of an amazing team and town…love the community and love helping patients. My passion is to see their smiling faces and to know we’ve helped to enhance those smiles.” Roxanne Ross, shared her five-star satisfaction on social media, as many often do. “…I look forward to going! Dr. Ray, so caring and careful, takes dental anxiety into account and relieves it—successfully…The excellent hygienists remember my particular needs...The office staff makes me feel like family, making every call a chat as well. Every aspect of Dental Associates at Walden Woods is exemplary and worthy of the highest praise…” To experience skilled care in a friendly dental practice, schedule an appointment with Dental Associates at Walden Woods soon. Visit the office or connect online at Facebook and www.dentalassociateswaldenwoods. com. This team can definitely brighten your smile!

512 E. Alexander Street | Plant City, FL 33563 | 813-752-3030 | www.dentalassociateswaldenwoods.com Hours: Monday-Thursday 7:30AM – 6PM | Friday 8AM – 4PM PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

DISCOUNT SCREENING, INC. Emphasizes Quality and Customer Service

Since 1983, Discount Screening, Inc. owner Marty Johnson and his technicians have believed: “Quality IS everything and the benefits of this strong commitment go directly to YOU, our valued customer.” As a sub-contractor throughout the eighties, Marty had done it all, including aluminum repair jobs. “Whenever there was a damaged lanai or pool enclosure,” he recalled, “I was the one everyone knew could fix it.” Seeing a need in the community for a quality screen repair company, Johnson eventually decided to focus exclusively on that work and formed Discount Screening, Inc. From the beginning, he was determined his company would be a leader in responsiveness and quality. Discount Screening only uses the best available materials, long-lasting and durable. “I don’t believe in cutting corners,” offered Johnson, “which is why I don’t like to use imported screen, also known as China screen, because the poor quality doesn’t perform well.” Customers can rest assured that all labor and materials used by Discount Screening are warranted. Customer service is another key to the company’s success. Johnson shared, “For 30+ years, making customers happy has been my goal,” Since most live here in Plant City, he knows, “It’s important to do a good job,” because “word gets around.” The licensed and insured Discount Screening, Inc. specializes in the repairing and re-screening of all types of screened enclosures. “Whether you need an entire enclosure, rescreen or just need a few screens replaced, we will breathe new life into your existing enclosures,” Marty explained. “Our company also accepts insurance claims and offers to beat competitors’ pricing. We want to be the best in the business. The quality work we do and seeing satisfaction on my customers’ faces inspires me.” The company also performs a free 10-point check of pool enclosure and screen room lanais. A 5-year warranty is provided on all rescreening labor and materials, with a 10-year warranty for “Super Screen®.” Super Screen® is the newest space-age technology in enclosure screen protection for pool, patio or porch. This high-quality, long-lasting home improvement investment is the perfect choice for the homeowner who demands the very best in family enjoyment and outdoor safety. Marty Johnson is adamant about doing everything the right way. He explained, “I only use the best.” He is proud to use products by Phifer PAGE

Services Discount Screening offers include:

ALL REPAIRS including Aluminum, Vinyl Window, Individual Panel repairs, screen doors, and pool cage cable ties. Replacement of damaged gutters and downspout Full Enclosure Re-Screening Pool, Screen Room and Lanai Enclosures Pressure Washing Gutter Cleaning Screen Entryways Garage Screens (effectively add another room to the house) Hinges, Doors and Hardware Floor Track Pet Doors Replace fasteners Replace floor anchors

Incorporated, a company established in 1952 whose motto is “Weaving Excellence with Innovation.” Phifer consumer products make it easy to enjoy the outdoors from inside. The world’s largest screening producer offers a wide variety of insect screens and exterior solar screens to help keep out bugs and solar heat while preserving the view. Interior sun control fabrics help reduce solar heat and create soft, usable indoor light. According to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, “A good way to keep your house cool in the summer is to shade it from the outside. Any way that stops the sun before it gets through the glass is seven times as good at keeping you cool as blinds or curtains on the inside.” Another way to improve energy efficiency and reduce interior fading is with the installation of Phifer’s SheerWeave® Interior Sun Control Fabrics. With a variety of openness factors available, light colors reflect the sun’s rays, while dark colors improve outside view and maximize glare reduction. Discount Screening can offer solutions and improvements for every situation. But nothing tells a company’s success story more than satisfied customer referrals from satisfied. The following recommendations from Walden Lake area neighbors are a few posted online: Elizabeth Owens: “I cannot say enough about Marty Johnson and the staff of Discount Screening. The screens of my patio were 20 years old and in bad shape. I called several different companies who came to my house and told me that the screens as well as all of the aluminum needed to be replaced. Marty came out and said that he could pressure wash all of the aluminum and replace

the hinges on the doors and they would look brand new and that there was NO NEED to replace everything. The crew of Discount came to my house and not only pressure washed the aluminum but pressure washed my entire patio which included the bricks where grass was growing up thru the cracks and my water fountain. I was moved to tears with the fact that Marty and his team cared enough about me and my patio to go above and beyond the call of duty. I now sit out on my beautiful patio and enjoy the beauty. THANK YOU MARTY JOHNSON AND TEAM! YOU GUYS EXCEEDED MY EXPECTATIONS!!! THANK YOU!” Pat Comstock: “I've used Marty at Discount Screening for many years. He’s always done excellent work and been honest and prompt.” Natalie Sweet: “Marty with Discount Screening is who I always recommend. Fair and honest!” For your free estimate on solutions your home needs, schedule an appointment today with Discount Screening, Inc. at 813-752-3306 or e-mail Marty at discountscreening@gmail.com. To learn more about specific products available, visit discountscreeninginc.com.

1406 W. Knights Griffin Road | Plant City FL 33565-5202 | 813-752-3306 discountscreeninginc.com PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

DUKES CHIROPRACTIC HEALTH CLINIC, P.A. For more than 30 years, Dr. Brenda Dukes has served the greater Plant City area with the goal of helping patients achieve health mentally, physically and spiritually. She founded Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic, P.A. with the motto "to love, to serve, and to give out of abundance". Dr. Dukes attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma and graduated in 1981 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Chemistry. She then continued her education at Life University in Marietta, Georgia, where she received her Doctor of Chiropractic degree in 1984. In November 1992, Dr. Dukes then earned a Diplomate in Neurology to expand her knowledge of the treatment of nervous system dysfunction. She is also Board qualified in Orthopedics. Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic emphasizes improving your overall health in an effort to reduce pain and illness. According to a 2011 report from the Institute of Medicine, about 100 million American adults suffer from chronic pain- about 40% of people over 18. Dr. Dukes is specifically trained to identify, locate and correct the root cause of communication interference between the brain and the body by means of the nervous system. Dr. Dukes and her team educate patients on the value of the nervous system in the function of organs and structures. “The organs and structures want to function, but if you don’t have nerve flow, it just won’t happen properly,” said Dr. Dukes. Gray’s Anatomy, an iconic medical textbook, describes the nervous system as the master control system of the body: “The nervous system controls and coordinates all organs and structures of the human body. Misalignment of the spinal vertebrae and discs may cause irritation to the nervous system, which could affect the structures, organs, and functions.” Dr. Dukes says this statement solidifies why she and her team are hereto aid and assist patients in improving their quality of life. When pain and illness rob one of a sound quality of life, chiropractic care can help patients achieve a pain-free life, gently and effectively. Unlike traditional medicine, chiropractic uses a non-invasive and drug-free approach. According to the 2018 Gallup-Palmer College Annual Report, 79 percent of Americans prefer to try other ways to address their physical pain before they take pain medication prescribed by a doctor and 52% of people PAGE

Sarah Dahl

Brenda Chandler, LMT MA19549

chose a chiropractor for effectiveness. Furthermore, in 2017 the American College of Physicians published updated guidelines in the Annals of Internal Medicine, citing heat therapy, massage, acupuncture and spinal manipulation (a centerpiece of chiropractic care) as possible options for non-invasive, nondrug therapies. According to the guidelines, prescription opioids should be a last resort for those suffering from low back pain, as the risk of addiction and overdose may outweigh the benefits. “We are so thankful many are seeing the documented studies that support and validate chiropractic care,” said Dr. Dukes. “We are so pleased to see advancements in research for doctors of chiropractic.” Dr. Dukes and her team create an individualized approach to caring for each patient’s needs by way of the neuromusculoskeletal system. At Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic, patients will receive a holistic approach, looking for underlying causes of disease, discomfort, and pain. The team of highlyqualified and trained professionals at Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic create a comprehensive wellness program, personalized to each patient’s needs. Treatment is central to regaining quality of life and central to the practice. Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic, P.A. offers care for joint pain, neck and back pain, pregnancy care, nutritional screening, spinal pelvic stabilizers, headaches, as well as auto injuries. Additionally, the practice offers cardiovascular testing with the Digital Pulse Wave Analyzer, a FDA-approved diagnostic tool which

Dr. Dukes

Jocelyn Mollfulleda

screens the arteries to find those hidden cardiovascular problems. Dr. Dukes completes an adjustment with therapeutic movements to relieve pain, tension and pressure. She incorporates the top of the line equipment available for doctors of chiropractic. Licensed Massage Therapist Brenda Chandler (MA19549) uses touch to reduce pain in the muscles and soft tissues, providing relief, reducing stress, improve circulation, and aid in the general wellness of the patient. Chandler has worked at the practice for 21 years and was a nominee in the 2018 FOCUS Magazine Readers’ Choice for Best Massage Therapist. Dr. Dukes won the RCA for Best Chiropractor in 2018 and 2019. The office is so blessed to have team members Sarah Dahl and Jocelyn Mollfulleda in the office to facilitate coordinated patient care. “I believe it is a call from the Lord to be in this profession,” said Dr. Dukes.

2401 Walden Woods Drive | Plant City, FL 33566 | 813-752-2524 | Dukeschiropractichealth.com #MM14100 PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

FELTON’S MEAT AND PRODUCE MARKET

Carrying on Family Tradition

Felton’s Meat and Produce Market houses a world of multi-cultural food items inside its 12,000 square foot grocery store at US 92 and Maryland Avenue in Plant City. Today, Lee Williams and his sister Karen Davis, who grew up in the business, manage the family-owned operation established in 1955 by their parents, Felton and Lucille Williams. Lee Williams and Karen Davis continue to operate the business the same way their dad did, by carrying Felton and Lucille Williams’ values and providing quality service. Widely recognized for its impressive meat department, Felton’s feels like the neighborhood butcher shop of yesteryear. Great pricing on fresh, frozen, custom cuts, and smoked meats place this local grocery in a league of its own. Families can enjoy even more savings by ordering 24 hours in advance from four “meat bundles,” priced $55 to $139. Simply view the packages online, call (813) 752-1548, receive an email confirmation, and pick up tomorrow. Regular customers have also discovered a treasure trove in Felton’s freshly smoked or fried meats, smoked onsite or deli-ready to become the main dish of your lunch or evening meal. To give your home’s cook a break on extra busy days, stop by Felton’s to make dinner a quick one. The store offers smoked specialties such as ribs, brisket, Boston butt, sausage, picnic hams, pulled pork and chicken or its deli-prepared fried pork chops, chicken drumsticks, and wings. When extra-large gatherings demand larger quantities, Felton’s will prepare any meat purchased in the store. Folks can also order smoked turkeys 24 hours in advance and four days prior for smoked whole hogs. Because of Felton’s rich history with the Plant City community, customer service is a priority. At the store’s service desk, employees enjoy helping shoppers with postage stamp purchases, TECO and Bright House payments, check cashing, Western Union and Orlandi Valuta money orders or transfers, food stamps/EBT/WIC cards and corporate or organizational accounts. The grocery business has a long heritage in the Williams’ family. In 1955, Felton and Lucille Williams started out with a produce stand on US 92 West. PAGE

In 2006, Felton Williams was named the recipient of Plant City’s Citizen of the Year award. This photo was taken in his store in 1963. Photo Credit: Plant City Photo Archives and History Center

He later built a store behind it in the 1960s. He then sold the store in the 1970s, bought it back and then sold it again in the 1980s. In the 1990s, he bought the current property off Maryland Avenue. But his strong interest in the grocery business came as a result of him working at his own father’s store. Yes, a previous generation also ran a store in Plant City. It was located at the corner of Alsobrook and Coronet streets. It was in this store that Felton Williams met his future wife Lucille. The couple met when he returned from basic training in the army in 1943. She was working at his father’s store at the time. Felton Williams was a member of the Plant City Lions Club, on the Board of Directors of South Florida Baptist Hospital and many other trade and service organizations. He was named Plant City Citizen of the Year in 2006. Williams and Davis carry on what their parents instilled in them with regards to community involvement. They believe in helping local schools, churches, and civic events.

Felton Williams’ first grocery store was located on US Hwy 92 W, when he purchased a produce stand from Frank Chambers in the late 1940s. His grocery store, “Felton’s Hi-Way Market” remained on US Hwy 92 W. This photo was taken in 1961. Photo Credit: The Plant City Photo Archives and History Center.

Williams noted that some of the schools conduct field trips at their store in order to teach the children about the different parts of an animal. “Felton’s is known to have everything from the ‘rooter to the tooter,’ from the snout to the tail,” chuckled Williams. Over the years, Felton’s Meat and Produce Market has won numerous industry awards from suppliers and vendors. And many local organizations have recognized them for their community involvement. “We are a part of Plant City, and Plant City is a part of us,” states Davis. “We are very blessed to have the support of the community.”

617 North Maryland Avenue | Plant City, Florida 33563 | (813) 752-1548 | www.feltonsmarket.com Hours: Monday to Saturday 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. | Sunday 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

FIRST RESPONSE HEATING & COOLING First Response Heating & Cooling is a 24-hour heating, ventilation, and air conditioning service company founded in 2018. The experts at First Response Heating & Cooling are dedicated to providing the highest quality of customer care, while completing each service job quickly and efficiently. The crew keeps their trucks fully stocked in handle any issue they come across. First Response is on-call 24/7 to service air conditioning units across Plant City, Brandon, Lakeland, Tampa and wherever service is needed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;First Response is a true 24-hour service company,â&#x20AC;? said owner Matthew Roberts. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I get so many calls from clients that say â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;you were the only ones that answered the phone.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; If the air breaks at 1:00 a.m., we will be ready to take your call.â&#x20AC;? In addition to owners Matthew Roberts and Bryan Chapman, the First Response team includes Samantha, Trent,and Guillermo, at the ready to resolve customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s HVAC emergencies, day or night. â&#x20AC;&#x153;These guys played a huge part in where this company is today,â&#x20AC;? said Roberts. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Without them, we would not have accomplished so much in our first year.â&#x20AC;? Service repair isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the only service the team at First Response Heating & Cooling can handle. The company also offers air quality services, maintenance, service contracts, new installation, free estimates, and second opinions. With the average summer temperatures recorded in Plant City at 92đ?Š&#x2018;, the last thing you want is to flip the switch on your A/C system only to find that it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t working properly. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re left wondering not only how long you will be without air, but how much will the repairs cost? At First Response Heating & Cooling, the crew understands that service repair is often unexpected and can be burdensome. The company offers numerous financing options including 0% down to low monthly payments with approved credit. Not only is getting your A/C back up and running important to the team at First Response Heating and Cooling, but the company was established on the principles of fairness, integrity and honesty. Those core values remain true to this day, building a reputation among Plant City residents as one of the top A/C companies in the city. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We wanted to create a business that treats its customers like family and friends,â&#x20AC;? said co-owner Bryan Chapman. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We built our business model to rely solely on honesty and integrity in all that we do and never to stray away from our core values and beliefs.â&#x20AC;? PAGE

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We wanted to create a business that treats its customers like family and friends,â&#x20AC;? said co-owner Bryan Chapman. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We built our business model to rely solely on honesty and integrity in all that we do and never to stray away from our core values and beliefs.â&#x20AC;?

education into what I currently had, what was needed immediately, and even pointed out potential future needs. Their pricing was very fair. Their response time was wonderful.” Being a part of the Plant City community was a “no brainer” for Roberts and Chapman. First Response Heating & Cooling participates in various community events including the Florida Strawberry Festival parade, Christmas parade, as well as sponsoring a Plant City Little League Baseball Team and in June, First Response was named the first place winner of the 3rd Annual Rise Plant City Dodgeball Tournament. These community events allow the team at First Response to give back to the residents that support their business. In February 2019, First Response Heating & Cooling was presented with the FOCUS Magazine Readers’ Choice Award for Best A/C Company. The First Response team expresses gratitude for the community’s support and customers are grateful for the professionalism, expertise and knowledge demonstrated by First Response Heating & Cooling. First Response customer Maureen Hunt rated the company five stars: “I had a great experience with First Response. Trent and Bryan were both absolutely phenomenal! They walked me through the process and provided as much

Jennifer Hunziker also raved about the wonderful service she received by First Response Heating & Cooling: “I had a great experience with First Response. Trent and Bryan were both absolutely phenomenal! They walked me through the process and provided as much education into what I currently had, what was needed immediately, and even pointed out potential future needs. Their pricing was very fair. Their response time was wonderful...” Customer Julie Brewer said the company was there for her to improve the air quality within her home: "First Response has provided excellent service for us on multiple occasions. They are friendly, knowledgeable, and honest. When my son had asthma, First Response provided multiple solutions to improve our quality of life. They have always gone above and beyond in providing top quality service at a reasonable rate without sacrificing quality.” If homeowners and businesses are looking for a professional, knowledgeable and fair HVAC company with hometown values, look no further than First Response Heating & Cooling. From service repair to sponsoring the local little league team, the team at First Response can do it all.

712 E Alsobrook St Unit 2, Plant City, FL 33563 | (813) 756-3899 | www.1stresponseairconditioning.com Open 24/7 | License # CAC1819392 PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

FLORIDA INSURANCE CENTER Since 1977 Florida Insurance Center has provided comprehensive insurance solutions for Florida families and businesses. Whether customers need to insure a car or a car dealership, Florida Insurance Center has a policy that fits every customer’s needs and budget. In the early days of the company, FIC was staffed by four employees. In 1984, Carl Brownlee purchased the firm and for years, the company operated out of a historic home on Reynolds Street. In 1999, the company moved to its current location on Alexander Street and Carl’s son, Dennis Brownlee, serves as Agency Principal with a staff of 26. “ONE STOP SHOP” From auto, homeowners, life, flood and boats to commercial auto, general liability, workers compensation, pollution, cyber liability, bonds, professional and more, FIC offers personalized insurance coverage that can protect customers in unexpected, unforeseen circumstances. Operations Manager Trent Hinds says FIC is a “one stop shop” of insurance solutions and offers services rarely found at other agencies. Hinds said: “We are a full service agency for your personal, commercial, life and group health insurance needs. We offer our business clients many value-added services that the other agencies do not have such as human

resource assistance and an online portal to assist in compliance, safety and other business needs.” Furthermore, the agency has an in-house commercial risk manager, who makes on-site visits to provide advice and safety training related to claims management. As an independent agency, FIC has established long-term, solid relationships with some of the top national and regional carriers in the industry, including Auto-Owners, United Fire Group, Westfield and Tower Hill. These relationships allow FIC agents to provide clients with a policy that protects their assets at a competitive price.

Personal Insurance Team: Crystal Fletcher, Tina Cravens, Heather Houston, Crystal McBrayer and Anthony Preston.

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FIC announced July 12 the promotion of Jeremy Burris (right) as new Agency Partner. He works alongside Operations Manager Trent Hinds (left) and Agency Principal Carl Brownlee (center) in the future growth of Florida Insurance Center.

COMMUNITY AT HEART Hinds says FIC is proud to be based in Plant City and gives back to the community in a number of ways, including participating in the Santa Sled Festival, donations to the United Food Bank of Plant City, supporting a local educator at the beginning of each school year with a donation of school supplies, and participation in Miles for Moffitt. Furthermore, the company employees enjoy volunteering at the Strawberry Festival each year and the company has always supported local students’ livestock sales. The company has membership in the Plant City Rotary Club and the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, as well as FAIA (Florida Association of Insurance Agents), and Trusted Choice, a network of 250,000 independent agents.

“I really enjoy working with Heather and the value she provides. She compared what I had, discussed my needs, and found the coverage that worked for me and my family. Did I mention she saved me over $2000 annually from what I was paying? It cost me nothing to give her a shot and ended up being one of the best decisions I ever made.” - Chris Sorah

WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT FIC For generations, Plant City and Central Florida residents have trusted FIC for all of their insurance needs. These are testimonials from customers about their experience with FIC:

With four decades of experience, Florida Insurance Center has the expertise to assist you with almost any insurance need. The agency has grown from serving the needs of their first customer in 1977 to thousands of customers across the state of Florida. If you’d like to insure your auto, property, business or want to explore your options for a lower rate, be sure to call the team at Florida Insurance Center at (813) 754-3561.

“FIC has been great to work with they really care about me and my family and business. I had to make changes a bunch of times on my policy and they took care of them fast every time. They are wonderful to work with and they have you covered.” - Misty Wells “Crystal Fletcher is our agent for personal insurance (auto, homeowners, etc.) at Florida Insurance Center. She is always easy to reach by phone and very helpful. It's really a pleasure to have a knowledgeable agent to represent us to the various insurance companies.” - Russell Scoville

“Anthony is incredibly responsive, patient and informative when it comes to us and our insurance policies. He's been a pleasure to deal with and we appreciate his care and thoughtfulness. We look forward to working with Anthony in the future. Thanks Anthony and Florida Insurance Center for such great service.” - Chris Gargani

414 N. Alexander Street | Plant City, FL 33563 | (813) 754-3561 | www.floridainsurancecenter.com Mon- Friday 8AM- 5PM PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

GOULD’S A/C & HEATING With over 30 years in the industry, Gould’s Air Conditioning & Heating has unbeatable experience in keeping customers cool in the Florida heat. Quality, efficient service and honesty are the pillars of the business philosophy at Gould’s Air Conditioning & Heating. Tony Gould, owner, is a Plant City native and entered the industry after high school, working full time for another company. After working up the company ladder for 17 years, he took the leap into entrepreneurship and began Gould’s Air Conditioning and Heating in the late 1990s. He chose to raise his family in Plant City, so there was no question that his company would be based in Plant City, as well. Many companies in the air conditioning business attempt to “up-sell” the customer on air conditioning units and parts. With labor costs added, homeowners or businesses could be looking at another mortgage or possibly having to go without the necessary repair. Tony Gould believes that what sets him apart from other companies is the honesty in the service they provide. “We always look forward to doing great work at a great price,” said Gould. Gould’s Air Conditioning and Heating is committed to delivering top notch, on-time service to homes across Plant City and surrounding areas. Whether it’s repairing an existing unit or installing a new high-efficiency A/C system, the team at Gould’s Air Conditioning and Heating does it all. In addition to A/C repair and installation, Gould’s Air Conditioning and Heating offer routine maintenance, cleaning services and inspections. Whether it's installing a new unit from scratch, repairing damage on your existing unit, or completely replacing an old unit with a new one, Gould’s fully licensed and insured technicians will get the job done. In addition to working on residential properties, the company also services both commercial and industrial properties. Tony Gould says the company is offering sanitation services to address the concerns of customers with respiratory conditions. “We are sanitizing ductwork and can install air purification systems,” said Gould. “Not only are we growing with the industry, but we are adopting new products and services to help our customers.”

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His crew was professional, prompt, and did a wonderful job cleaning up, which is not always the case with repairs…” Along with honesty and consistency, customers repeatedly agree that Gould’s is by far the fastest and most efficient air conditioning service around. Gould's shows up on time to do the job right and in a professional manner. “It matters to us that we are trusted in our community,” said Gould. In addition to providing service above and beyond what is expected, Gould’s is also wonderful at providing information and education. Although many questions can be answered with a visit to their website, but the staff never minds personal phone calls. “If I can help you over the phone, I will,” offered Gould. The company also specializes in same day service and after hours emergency service to both residential, commercial, and industrial properties. When you are looking to give your A/C a little TLC, look to Gould’s for quality care at a fair price.

Gould’s technicians have extensive knowledge and experience with all makes and models including American Standard, Rudd, and Trane. Another accolade for Gould’s Air Conditioning and Heating is the complete customer satisfaction from beginning to the end of service. Dennis Large, a satisfied customer, said, “Quick response to help same day. Worked with my financial situation. All persons that I had contact with were very friendly and helpful. This company operates with old school values.” Another happy customer, Stacy Allums, agreed and stated, “Tony and his crew always take such good care of my home. I highly recommend them for all of your A/C and heating needs.” Marilyn Lopez of Plant City was also satisfied with the work completed by Gould’s A/C, noting their professionalism and cleanliness. “Gould's has just completed a complete a/c replacement for us. It included a new compressor, handler, new wiring, and new thermostat (Tony took care of all the paperwork, too).

601 Hitchcock St #101 | Plant City, FL 33563 | (813) 752-1970 | www.gouldsac.com Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Nights & Weekend Services Available PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

HEYSEK & KEPES RADIATION Scared and troubled after receiving a cancer diagnosis, the caring staff at Heysek and Kepes Radiation Oncology will treat you like family and not simply a patient. Operating since March 5, 1996, they’re conveniently located on the South Florida Baptist Hospital campus. Once inside, you’ll enter subdued, comfortable rooms with soft lighting, pleasant art work, reading materials, puzzles, goodies, and coffee. Striving to treat the whole person, the staff organizes individualized resources: counselors, nutritionists, and appointments. Dr. Randy Heysek and Dr. Kathryn Kepes identify the cancer type and then create a treatment plan in an effort to overcome the disease. Various forms of radiation therapy are used in attempting to prevent cancer cells from dividing. On site nurses, certified radiation therapy technologists, and a medical physicist provide sophisticated treatment. Treatments may involve individualized radiation therapy, 3-D conformal therapy, high dose radiation for skin cancers, and intensity modulation radiation therapy. AccuBoost is an image-guided breast irradiation technique. The doctors use Valencia, a skin cancer treatment to spare deep surgery. The center houses Varian 600C linear accelorator, an extremely precise machine. Heysek and Kepes is well equipped and experienced in treating cancers in a compassionate, respectful environment. Dr. Heysek earned a B.S. with honors in Biochemistry, continued at the University of Florida College of Medicine, interned at Baptist memorial Hospital in Memphis, and completed his residency in radiation oncology at the University of Maryland Cancer Center. Dr. Heysek is particularly interested in head, neck, and prostate cancer. He has served as Chief of Staff at Lakeland Regional Hospital and was a previous board member of the American Cancer Society (ACS). Earning her Doctor of Medicine degree from ST. Louis University, Dr. Kepes continued her education with earning an MBA from the University of Miami. She is especially interested in breast and lung cancer. Dr. Kepes is also an Honorary Lifetime Member of ACS. According to Raquel Fernandes, staff nurse and office supervisor, “We try to make our patients feel like they are a part of our family.” Cancer is a challenge. The Heysek and Kepes team strives to provide total quality care with a difference! PAGE

303 North Alexander Street | Plant City, FL 33563 | (813) 719-7705, Hours: Mon-Fri 8AM to 4:30PM PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

HILLSBORO BANK Hillsboro Bank was founded on the ideal of community banking, where customers “feel known, understood, and supported.” The dream of ten visionary business leaders, they envisioned a financial institution with a solid banking relationship for individuals and businesses in our community to thrive, prosper and grow. The founding directors included Tony Azorin, Gary Boothe, Ron Daniel, Dot Harkala, Andy Mueller, Tom Poppell, Mac Smith, Mike Sparkman, Don Stine, and Hank Varnum. The late Tom Poppell served as the first Chairman of the Board and the late Ron Daniel was named President and CEO. This group had a vision and within a couple of months raised the needed capital through stock sales to create the Hillsboro Bank. In July 1998, Hillsboro Bank opened its doors for the first time. Today, the hometown bank continues to operate on the values instilled by the founding leaders. “When you call Hillsboro Bank, a person answers- not a machine,” said Senior Vice President/COO Pam Warnock. “When you walk through the doors of the bank, you’re greeted by name. At Hillsboro Bank , we recognize that our customers are the reason we are here. Without our customers, our Bank doesn’t exist and therefore we strive to provide excellent customer service with every transaction.” The thriving bank continues to be locally owned and managed by directors, stockholders and employees who have deep community ties and share the same philosophy. Together they have worked to tailor banking services to accommodate the needs of each individual customer or business – and to not only meet, but to exceed their expectations. Based on earnings, asset quality, capital, growth and liquidity, the Banker’s Caddy algorithm designated the Hillsboro Bank as Best Community Bank in Florida in 2018 with a #1 ranking for performance. The bank also earned an 11th place National Ranking. Hillsboro Bank offers personal and business banking services including, but not limited to: Checking & Savings CDs & IRAs Small Business Banking (Designed for limited volume of transactions) Commercial Banking (Designed for high volume of transactions)

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Dade City Office

Valrico Office

The bank also offers loan services for auto, lot and land, as well as commercial real estate, equipment, small business and agriculture loans. Hillsboro Bank has three locations: Plant City, Valrico and Dade City. Each branch continues to operate with hometown values, but offers customers the technological advantages of a larger bank. The financial institution has developed and launched the Hillsboro Bank app with mobile bank deposit for both phone and tablet use. The bank also offers digital wallet, a feature that allows customers to use their phone to pay for items with the Hillsboro Bank debit card. Hillsboro Bank has also added a fraud protection application for our debit card users that will notify customers immediately when their debit card is used and allow customers to turn their card off when it isn’t in use; providing customers with a convenient tool to catch and prevent fraud in real time. Warnock says a lot of banks are offering these services, but Hillsboro Bank’s commitment to building relationships with its customers means there is a personal touch to using the technology. “What makes Hillsboro Bank different is that we have added the technology without removing the customer service,” said Warnock. “We have trained employees who are happy to assist our customers in using our technology in a manner that makes banking convenient for them.” This dedication to customer satisfaction and sense of community is what sets Hillsboro Bank apart from the big banks. “Hillsboro Bank has worked hard to blend the traditions, customer service, and values of a hometown bank while also staying up to date on current banking advancements so that we can provide our customers with the best banking experience possible,” said Warnock. “While a lot of banks are cutting back their hours, closing their drive thru, and replacing their tellers with a machine; we believe in the importance of being available to our customers, in person when they need us.”

In Loving Memory:

Mac Smith

Ron Daniel

Ron Daniel (12/30/38- 06/08/19) Mac Smith (03/13/29-04/29/19) Hillsboro Bank was saddened by the loss of founding board members Ron Daniel and Mac Smith. Daniel and Smith were instrumental in the creation and operation of Hillsboro Bank, with Daniel serving as the bank’s Founding President and Smith serving as Founding Director. Each served on the bank’s board until their passing in 2019. These men are deeply missed for their incredible contribution to the Plant City community.

FOCUSBUSINESS

HILLSBOROUGH TITLE Hillsborough Title was founded in 1984 by Gail Calhoun on the second floor of Sunshine State Federal Savings and Loan. Since its establishment, Hillsborough Title has served as a real estate industry leader and a staple in the Real Estate communities of Tampa, Brandon, Plant City, Valrico, Riverview, Lakeland, and surrounding areas. Today, the company is owned and operated by Calhoun’s son, Aaron Davis. Davis took the reins in 2008 and since, Hillsborough Title has grown exponentially as one of the nation’s largest independent title agencies. Hillsborough Title is dedicated to providing clients with a smooth and stressfree closing process, thus saving time and money. The company uses the most advanced software in the industry, allowing for changes and on-site closings. In doing so, the company offers a “consumer-focused, improving the closing process and creating a simpler, more enjoyable experience for all parties involved.” Hillsborough Title offers the following services: Offering Title Insurance Escrow Services Title Search and Abstract 1031 Exchange Remote Closings Nationwide Real Estate Closing and Settlement Ownership and Encumbrance Inspection and Survey Ordering Document Preparation And other real estate and closing services

Aaron Davis

From contact to close, Hillsborough Title’s staff of highly trained, experienced professionals are ready to partner with you. Meet the staff of Hillsborough Title: Aaron M Davis, CEO Active in the title business since 1992, worked in every aspect of the title business growing up Currently is CEO/Owner of Hillsborough Title, as well as several other ventures including Florida Agency Network, Premier Data Services, and Alexander Oaks Office Park Graduated Plant City High School in 1993, University of Florida 1999 with BSBA- Major in Finance Married to wife Leslie for 17 years, has 2 sons Aiden 16 years old, Jackson 13 years old PAGE

Gail Calhoun

Amy Gregory

Michele Williams

Currently attending Harvard Business School’s OPM (Owners/President Management) program, tentative March 2021 graduation Interesting Fact- as President of the Plant City Rotary Club years ago, raised funds to supply every Plant City Police Department squad car with a portable defibrillator unit that has now been used to save countless lives. Gail Calhoun, Founder Started/Founded Hillsborough Title in 1984 on the 2nd floor of Sunshine State Federal Savings & Loan Active today as a Senior Examiner/Title Specialist & Consultant Born and raised in Plant City, graduated Plant City High School 1974 5th generation Plant City native 2 sons Aaron and Nathan Davis 4 grandchildren Aiden and Jackson (Aaron) and Jaida and Paitlyn (Nathan) “My favorite people call me Nana” Interesting fact – I was the 3rd female member of the Plant City Kiwanis Amy L. Gregory, President Active in the title business since 1995 and has worked in every aspect of the industry from Receptionist to Closer to Manager to President Currently President of Hillsborough Title as well as several other title companies under the Florida Agency Network Graduated from Bloomingdale High School in 1996 and continued career in title insurance. Married to my Jr. High School sweetheart Ryan for 22 years. Has 2 children,

Kayla Drawdy

Catelynn 20 years old, who recently joined the HCSO and Tucker 18 years old who just graduated High School and will be attending college this fall. Recently received Anti-Money Laundering Specialist Certification Interesting Fact – when I was a Junior in High School, I received the information about a job opening at a local title company from my High School BCE teacher, which started my career in title and now am working with Future Career Academy to spread the industry information to local high school students. Michele Williams, Branch Manager Started in the title industry in 2002 as a closer. Joined Hillsborough Title in 2012 as a closer and was appointed management in 2015. Born and raised in Tampa, Florida. Graduated from Jefferson High School in 1988. Moved to Plant City in 2002. Married 24 years to Tim Williams and have a set of twins, Austin and Taylor Williams, 22 years old. Interested Fact- For fun I like to go out on our boat and spend time with family and friends. Kayla Drawdy, Marketing Manager and Licensed Title Agent Marketing/ PR Representative and has been so since 2015 She resides in Plant City with her two boys David (7) and Jackson (5) She is involved in many clubs and organizations in the Plant City Community. In her free time she enjoys spending time with friends and family. Interesting Fact- She enjoys anything sports related, including tennis and fishing.

1605 S Alexander St #102 | Plant City, FL 33563 | (813) 754-4440 | www.hillsboroughtitle.com Mon- Fri 8:30AM to 5PM PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

HOME PROTECTION PEST CONTROL Home Protection Pest Control is the first defense against pests for Plant City homes and businesses. Founded in 2006 by Steve and Kathy Paul, Home Protection Pest Control’s team of knowledgeable industry professionals are dedicated to protecting Plant City properties before pests become a problem. Whether you’re faced with rodents, roaches, spiders, fleas or ticks, Home Protection Pest Control has the expertise and know-how in all areas of pest control. The company offers free consultations, where technicians will assess the situation and then answer any questions property owners may have, educating customers on the best treatment plan to rid the building of pests and preventing the problem from returning. Products used during application do not contain harmful chemicals, but Home Protection Pest Control does require customers to follow guidelines for the best results. “We educate our customers so the product will work properly,” said Kathy Paul. Honesty and work ethic are what set Home Protection Pest Control apart from other pest control companies. Customers rave about the fair prices and prompt, friendly service they receive and many say they have recommended Home Protection Pest Control to family and friends. From the time customers call Kathy in the office to schedule an appointment to the end when Steve, Mitch Harvill and Ken Butler complete the job, Home Protection Pest Control prides itself on treating customers with personal and professional integrity. Harvill and Butler are an integral part of the day-to-day operations at Home Protection Pest Control. Because the company is family-owned, the Pauls believe in treating their employees like family. “I couldn’t do it without my team,” said Steve Paul. From houses, condos, and townhouses to barns, sheds, out-buildings and commercial properties, Home Protection Pest Control can treat any property inside and out. Pest are year-round and that means customer properties need year-round protection. With a customized treatment plan, Home Protection Pest Control’s technicians and exterminators will determine the frequency of application, including quarterly, bi-monthly or monthly.

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Home Protection Pest Control proudly serves Hillsborough and Polk counties in the following areas: Plant City Tampa Brandon & Valrico Temple Terrace Lakeland Just as the Plant City community has supported the Pauls successful business, the couple has used their position to give back, supporting the Plant City High School FFA Chapter. The Pauls also give back to a food bank in neighboring Lakeland.

Home Protection Pest Control technicians offer the services you need to be rid of pests. If you find yourself in a stinging situation with bees or hornets, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fear, as this is a specialty for Home Protection Pest Control. Do you hear something scurrying through your walls? Home Protection also removes rodents. If spiders, fleas, or ants are the problem, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got you covered there, too. So, for pest control solutions for your home or business, provided by a familyowned, local business built on integrity and honesty, please call Steve and Kathy Paul at Home Protection Pest Control. They are always ready to help!

3909 Keene Road | Plant City FL 33565 | 813-757-6752 www.homeprotectionpc.com PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

HUNGRY HOWIE’S PIZZA Food has an incredible way of bringing people together. Gathering for a meal is one of the most communal aspects of life. At Hungry Howie’s Pizza on Alexander Street, the relationship formed between the community and the restaurant is central to the day-to-day operations. Whether families are hitting the Super Buffet Bar on a Friday night or the restaurant is feeding the pediatric patients at South Florida Baptist Hospital, pizza is forging a relationship in our community. 24 YEARS OF GREAT PIZZA For 24 years, Hungry Howie’s has been owned and operated by father and son team, Charlie and Ali Sobh. In the 1990s, Ali’s uncle was working for Hungry Howie’s throughout Florida, while Charlie and Ali were living in their native Michigan. Charlie made a trip to Florida to visit his brother-in-law and in doing so, purchased the Hungry Howie’s location in 1994. Throughout the years, Ali began learning the various aspects of the business, from dish washing to food prep. “Starting in the 8th grade, I couldn’t drive yet, so a delivery driver would pick me up in the morning and at night, the closing driver would drop me off at home.” After college, Ali became an owner in the business and today, he manages the restaurant’s daily operations. It is not uncommon to see Ali in the kitchen, working side-by-side with his staff to fulfill hungry customer’s orders. FAST & FRESH Unlike most pizza chains, Hungry Howie’s Pizza #106 uses fresh ingredients from the local market. Vegetables are washed and hand cut as pizza and salad toppings. Meat, such as chicken, is washed, cut and cooked in house daily, to ensure that only the freshest ingredients are being used. Ali encourages guests to order online at www.hungryhowies.com for Store #106. Not only is ordering quick and convenient, but customers can ensure the accuracy of their order, customize the order, and choose pickup or delivery. For those choosing delivery, Sobh says his drivers will deliver anywhere between County Line Road to the east and Gallagher Road to the west.

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The menu includes pizzas ranging in size from small to deep, as well as wings, and oven baked subs in the following flavors: Deluxe Combination, Ham & Cheese Sub, Veggie Sub, Steak, Cheese and Mushroom Sub, Turkey Club, Chicken Bacon Ranch, Chicken Parmesan, Meatball Sub, and Taco Sub. Each of these options are $6 for the regular size or $8 for the large. The Super Buffet Bar is stocked with pizzas, a full salad bar, pastas as well as desserts. The buffet is open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m and costs $9 for adults, $7 for kids, ages 3 to 7, with the cost of a drink, guests are looking to spend approximately $10-$12 per person. The buffet is a favorite for sports teams, birthday parties and family nights. Ali says during football season, the dining room is packed with guests trying to watch the game, enjoy great food and guests 21 and up can enjoy Bud Light and Miller Lite, bottled or on draft. During football season, the restaurant offers 2 for $6 Bud and Bud Light Draft or $8.99 Bud and Bud Light Pitchers. BIG DEALS Hungry Howie’s offers a rotating menu of incredible savings, allowing customers to enjoy the delicious quality at a lower price point. Wacky Wednesday: For $6, pick up one large pizza, large sub or medium salad every Wednesday. 50 for $50: During Monday, Thursday, and Sunday football games, enjoy 50 wings and 2 pitchers of beer for $50 (dine-in only). Family Feast: $30 plus tax for two large one topping pizzas, 16 wings or any large salad, regular Howie Bread and a two liter Pepsi (Delivery and premium toppings at additional cost). COMMUNITY MINDED Every October, store #106 participates in Hungry Howie’s Love, Hope & Pizza campaign, for every pizza purchased in a pink pizza box, Hungry Howie’s makes a donation to the National Breast Cancer Foundation®. The NBCF empowers those battling breast cancer through early detection, education and support services. “We help everyone- CityPointe Church, Plant City Church of God, we help the homeless, and all of the nurses know at the hospital if they have a young patient, they let me know and I will send food over.” When ordering pizza, customers can choose one of the chain’s eight flavored pizza crusts: Butter Butter Cheese Asiago Cheese Ranch Onion Cajun Sesame Garlic Herb

On the wall in the waiting area, customers can find a number of plaques from groups such as Plant City Dolphins, the Florida Sheriff Association and a number of other organizations, recognizing the contributions the Hungry Howie’s location makes to the community. What makes the Sobhs’ Hungry Howie’s location so special is the relationships formed between the community and the restaurant. “I like when people greet me by name or come to the back to hug me,” said Sobh. “There are a million Hungry Howie’s, but people come here for a reasonthe relationship.”

FOCUSBUSINESS

LABOR SOLUTIONS Bringing People Together

Founded by Baxter Troutman in Frostproof in 1997, Labor Solutions is one of Central Florida’s largest providers of temporary workforce solutions for all levels of employment. Labor Solutions connects employers with reliable, hardworking, and trained job seekers that can meet the client’s flexible staffing needs. The company motto is, “Bringing People Together”. Employers know to turn to Labor Solutions for comprehensive service, team support, and expertise.

The Plant City office opened in November 2017 on Reynolds Street.

Labor Solutions understands that unemployment is worrisome and finding a job can be difficult. For over 20 years, the company has helped Central Florida residents find careers, thus giving hope to those facing income insecurity. COMMITTED TO COMMUNITY Labor Solutions opened its doors to Plant City in November 2017. At Labor Solutions’ Plant City office, employers and job seekers can expect to find team members Johanna Myers, Branch Manager; Wanda Acevedo, Customer Service Representative; and Adaleen Martinez, Recruiter. Labor Solutions has served as an active member of the community, as a member of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, as well as participating in the Plant City MLK Jr. Parade and the Florida Strawberry Festival parades. Furthermore, the company participates in events throughout Central Florida including Making Strides Against Breast Cancer5k Walk, Warrior Walk, and Rockin’ on the River, an event supporting Autism awareness. LEADERSHIP Vice President Mirca Mercado began working for Labor Solutions in 2002. At the time, she had no previous experience in the staffing industry. She worked her up through the company and today, she oversees the daily operations of Labor Solutions’ numerous offices across Central Florida. Mercado has been recognized by El Sol de la Florida, a hispanic culture magazine based in Kissimmee, for her outstanding leadership. Furthermore, the Lakeland Ledger noted Labor Solutions commitment to helping Puerto Ricans displaced by Hurricane Maria find jobs in Polk County.

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Johanna Myers and Wanda Acevedo are at the Plant City office ready to help you find your next job.

Labor Solutions founder Baxter Troutman praised Mercado for her commitment to helping people achieve success in their given job field. “My right hand at Labor Solutions, Mirca Mercado, is doing everything she can to help place Puerto Ricans in jobs around Polk County,” said Troutman. “She’s helping people fulfill the American dream and provide jobs for new Floridians!” SKILLS & PROFESSIONALISM Labor Solutions’ workers are screened, drug and background tested and then the company matches the workers’ skills with the needs of all client companies. Mercado says the staffing company can pair clients with workers in a number of industries. “Administrative, Light Industrial, Construction, Maintenance, Agricultural, and Hospitality,” said Mercado. Labor Solutions provides workers with job training specific to their assignment and when necessary, conduct safety classes and the appropriate safety equipment. Mercado says the company provides Workers’ Compensation coverage, we handle unemployment issues, along with payroll for our workers. Labor Solutions has answers for special needs and specific challenges. Dena Santiago-Crutchfield, Operations Development Director, explained: "With years of experience in the staffing industry, our team will work with you and your department managers to discover flexible and unique solutions. Communication is a top priority and key to helping clients meet today’s demands and plan ahead for those of the future.” Some companies only provide one person to service each account. At Labor Solutions, the entire team is available to the client, to customize service to meet their needs and time frames Labor Solution prides itself in suitably matching individuals with jobs that provide workers with the best opportunities available in our market area, whether workers are seeking permanent employment (temp-to-perm), or prefer a full-time temporary or part-time temporary position. “Our commitment is total customer satisfaction and we give it 100% of the time,” explained Mercado. In our present working environment, more than ever, it is important to work with someone who can help navigate labor laws, worker protection standards, wage and hour compliance, insurance and regulatory matters. These responsibilities are then taken off of the employer’s shoulders and puts it on the shoulders of Labor Solutions.

Vice President Mirca Mercado

Whether you’re a job seeker looking for employment opportunities or if you’re an industry professional searching for a skilled workforce, Labor Solutions is Central Florida’s source for a highly effective workforce. Visit the Plant City office at 1215 W. Reynolds Street to get started finding your next job.

1215 W. Reynolds St. | Plant City, FL. 33563 | Phone: 813-659-0031 | Fax: 813-659-0034 www.laborsolutions.com PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

LEVEL SEVEN GRAPHICS Level Seven Graphics was founded in 2008 by Michael and Julie Pippin. Inspired by Michael’s creative passion, the pair began creating logos and business cards. The Pippins are devout Christians and the company name is inspired by the Biblical significance of the number seven. “The number seven, in the Bible, represents the concept of completeness,” explained Michael. “It serves as a personal reminder to take care of our customers until the job is complete… we sometimes call ourselves “dream support” as we help people achieve their goals and dreams.” As Michael advanced in his career with ministry at The Crossing Church, he passed the baton of leadership to Julie, who now runs Level Seven Graphics with her team: Tiffany Simpson, office assistant and Joseph Barnes, production staff. Julie and the Level Seven team create professional and eye-catching materials, such as apparel, signs and promotional items, to help clients achieve their marketing goals and objectives. The team works collaboratively-delivering inspired, effective, intelligent work for each client. Level Seven Graphics begins by gathering information about each client’s organization from the big picture to the little details and explore your objectives, so the team can deliver creative solutions and the results needed. Whatever your needs are — business cards, screen printing, promotional products, embroidery, or signs -- Level Seven Graphics has the original design to fit your needs. “I have to say, that what sets us apart is originality,” said Julie Pippin. Level Seven Graphics creates unique art for each client, based on their existing branding. If a client is in need of a branding package, including a logo design, color palette, and font choices, Level Seven’s team are here to help clients explore the options. If you have driven around Plant City, then you have seen their work. Level Seven Graphics has created designs and apparel for Cork Elementary, Tomlin Middle, Plant City High School, Pinecrest Pilots, RAOK, and many others.

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“We love our community and we love to give back,” Pippin said. “We love our sweet little hometown.”

for company hats. Cordero praised the Level Seven group recommending them to anyone in need of apparel.

The company has done work for the Relay for Life and offer discounts to churches, youth organizations, and community organizations.

Mary Jo Martinez turned to the company for apparel for a fundraiser: “These guys are amazing to work with and do great quality work. They assisted us in making shirts for our adoption fundraiser. Love them!!”

The goal at Level Seven Graphics is unparalleled customer service. “We truly believe in making the customer happy and providing honest service,” Pippin said. Customers appreciate the ease of ordering with Level Seven Graphics and the quick turnaround times. Anthony Cordero of FloRite Air Conditioning and Heating turned to Level Seven

Jonathan Vining gives the company a thumbs up, stating, “Very fast with my orders, and very pleased with the prices! Highly recommended” It is that sense of community pride, customer service and inventiveness that will make Level Seven Graphics your design and printing team. For assistance, e-mail order@levelsevengraphics.com, phone 813-763-6476, or visit www. levelsevengraphics.com

(813) 763-6476 | www.levelsevengraphics.com PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

OLE TAMPA CUBANS In December 2018, Ole Tampa Cubans opened the doors of its Plant City location and established a foothold on the Plant City dining scene. Known for the authentic Tampa flavorings inspired by Cuban, Spanish and Italian immigrants, Ole Tampa Cubans is quickly becoming one of Plant City’s favorite establishments. “The local community has been overwhelmingly supportive of Ole Tampa,” said Ole Tampa Cubans owner Dwayne Williams. “In the past few weeks, we had experienced many, many first time guests who we were referred to. The real Tampa Cuban, hand rolled devil crabs and stuffed potatoes are really a hit.” Billing itself “Plant City’s Taste of Tampa,” Ole Tampa Cubans serves up classics such as Cuban sandwiches, devil crabs, guava pastries and Cafe con Leche. The new menu item that is back by popular demand is “The Shipwreck.” “It’s thick cut potatoes deep fried and drizzled with our homemade ranch sauce,” said Williams. “It’s topped with our homemade pico and jalapeños. You can also add this on as a side or get the large that’s almost big enough for two. TRIBUTE TO YESTERYEAR It all started decades ago in the Port of Tampa. Dwayne Williams and his siblings visited the water side to see their father who worked at the Port. In doing so, Williams and his family would watch the shrimp boats pull into the Bay and catch a drive-in movie near the Causeway. He was immersed in the delectable offerings of Ole Tampa Bay, including authentic devil crabs. These memories are the inspiration behind Ole Tampa Cubans and the restaurant’s commitment to providing only the most authentic of flavors. When guests bite into an Ole Tampa Cubans devil crab, they too are transported back in time to the days of yesteryear. FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED Ole Tampa Cubans is family owned and operated. Dwayne is joined by his wife, Liesel, who makes the restaurant’s guava pastries fresh daily. Williams’ sister, Marisa Lehtola, serves as General Manager and his nephew, Josh Holley, is a member of the kitchen staff. With family on staff, Ole Tampa Cuban holds a strong commitment to quality and Dwayne credits his staff for their hand in the success of the business. PAGE

Each morning at 6:00 a.m., the crew of Ole Tampa Cubans begins handrolling devil crabs, one of the establishment’s most popular items.

The restaurant offers homemade guava pastries. The cuban treat is made fresh daily by Dwayne’s wife.

Ole Tampa Cubans will soon introduce the Plant City community is the restaurant’s event trailer. The food trailer will allow Ole Tampa Cubans to serve a crowd of people during lunch break, company parties, etc.

“I credit Ole Tampa Cubans success to my commitment to freshness, Tampa history, my staff, my outside support group and the spirit of fun and real food in my business,” said Williams. SERVICE OPTIONS Hungry patrons have the option to dine in, visit the pickup window, or order for delivery through Bite Squad. The restaurant also offers party platters of sandwiches, crabs, and potato balls. Orders must be called in at least 24 hours in advance. “Party platters is something new that has really gotten good reviews,” said Williams. “We have guest getting them for small parties, large parties, office meetings etc. we customize these to the event so details are worked out with the manager.” The establishment is offering innovative ways to put more food in the hands of hungry patrons.

The Shipwreck, is a relatively new menu item. Deep fried potatoes, drizzled with homemade ranch sauce and topped with jalapeños and homemade pico de gallo.

One being a crab cart; the bicycle has a hot box attached to the back of it and will be utilized at car shows, Bike Fests, and anywhere the public can quickly access the restaurant’s real Tampa devil crabs. The crab cart is the first of its kind in Plant City and will allow Ole Tampa Cubans to serve up one of its most popular items in an old school way. Crab bicycle carts were utilized in Old Tampa, often selling the seafood balls for a quarter. The second addition is a concessions trailer. The trailer will be used for largescale events, such as festivals, large corporate lunches and food rallies. To learn more about how to request the event trailer for your event, call Ole Tampa Cubans for more details.

404 N. Alexander Street | Plant City, Florida 33566 | 813-652-8017 Hours: Monday- Saturday: 9:00AM to 7:00PM | Sunday: Closed PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE Outback Steakhouse Plant City is home to juicy steaks, spirited drinks, and Aussie hospitality. With a combined 344 years of experience, Outback Plant City’s 100 dedicated staff members provide courteous, attentive service and go above and beyond to make your meal one to remember. Managing Partner Ryan Danielik has worked for Outback for 20 years. His career began as a busboy at an Outback location in Fayetteville, North Carolina in August 1999. Danielik found himself working up the totem pole and has held each position within the restaurant at some point over his career. He moved to Valrico in 2003 and alternated between the Brandon and Plant City locations. He then served as a manager at Outback St. Petersburg. He relocated once again, as Acting Manager of Outback Plant City for two months, before being promoted to Managing Partner in May 2018. Danielik says his goal is to make Outback Plant City “everyone’s favorite place to eat, drink, relax and be with friends.” Why has Danielik devoted twenty years of his life to being an Outbacker? “It’s the people,” he said. “I’m not in this business for me, it’s for the people.” Under Danielik’s leadership, Outback Plant City has been praised for its attention to service, friendly hospitality and delicious meals. “My staff sees me fully engaged and they feed off of me,” said Danielik. “We’re in the hospitality industry and we are always trying to make dining at Outback an experience.” Outbacker Cheri Lacy has worked for Outback for 20 years. Danielik says many regulars ask for her and as a Plant City native, her customers are her friends and neighbors. Fellow Outbacker Lucy Davis has worked at the Outback Plant City location since its opening 18 years ago. Danielik noted Davis’ popularity among guests, stating she often has the bar packed during closing shifts. LET’S EAT, MATE! Starting August 14 for a limited time, Outback Plant City will offer Steak & Lobster and Steak & Unlimited Shrimp for $15.99. Danielik said the unlimited shrimp is one of the restaurant’s most popular meals. PAGE

Proprietor Ryan Danielik

Looking for something with a kick? Toowoomba Pasta consists of shrimp and mushrooms with a spicy cream sauce over a bed of fettuccine noodles. Adventurous guests may pair the pasta with Volcano Shrimp as a starter. Crispy shrimp are tossed in a spicy Volcano sauce and topped with chives. The Bloomin’ Onion is a classic, some say “must have” appetizer when visiting Outback. But, for guests seeking an “Aussie-tizer” that isn’t deep fried, Danielik suggests the Seared Peppered Ahi Tuna, a sashimi-style tuna seared rare and served atop an Asian slaw. Guests may also enjoy the Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie- an Outback classic. “We make it with the original recipe for Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie from Outback’s opening in 1988,” said Danielik. “We are the only location in the entire Outback brand making it this way.” ROUNDS OF ‘RITAS Guests 21+ can enjoy a variety of cocktails, including seasonal margaritas and sangrias with a rotating daily menu of $5 cocktails during lunch hours. These cocktails include the Blackberry Martini, Strawberry Kiwi Rita, Sauza® Gold Coast ‘Rita®, Boozy Cherry Limeade, Ruby Mango Lemonade, and Strawberry Peach Sangria. The brand recently released the Boomarita, a flight of four minimargaritas in mango, blackberry, watermelon and the house margarita. Made with Sauza® Gold Tequila and a trio of lemon, lime and orange juices and served in a boomerang-shaped tray. The Boomarita is available for a limited time only. SPECIAL SAVINGS Looking to save on your next meal? Outback Steakhouse offers Dine Rewards. Visit dine-rewards.com to sign up for free and receive 50% off every 4th visit,

up to $20 off. Dine Rewards can be redeemed at any of Bloomin’ Brands’ four restaurants: Outback, Carrabba’s, Fleming’s and Bonefish Grill. With each visit, write the phone number associated with your account on the check and your server takes care of the rest! During your next visit to Outback, ask your server how to sign up and begin receiving rewards. Want to forgo the hustle and bustle of the restaurant dining room? Guests can now order delivery to the home or office. The Plant City location began offering the service on April 9, where customers can call-in or order online. Beginning August 14, Outback will be pairing with Door Dash to serve customers outside of Outback’s delivery area. “Our drivers will serve anyone within our delivery area,” said Danielik. “Door Dash will serve customers outside of our area who are usually excluded from delivery. This will allow more people to have Outback delivery.” Starting August 13, Outback Plant City will begin Teacher Tuesdays. Each Tuesday, employees of Hillsborough County School District (with I.D.) can receive 10% off their bill (excluding alcohol sales). Furthermore, the restaurant will offer a rotating weekly menu of $4 drinks exclusively for educators. First Responders and military service members can get in on the savings, also receiving 10% off of their meal (excluding alcohol sales). Those who are not in uniform must show I.D. to receive the discount. If you’re looking for a dining experience unlike any other, look no further than Outback Plant City for great food, delicious drinks and attentive, friendly staff.

1203 Townsgate Ct, | Plant City, FL 33563 | (813) 759-4329 Hours: Sunday- Thursday 11AM to 10PM | Friday & Saturday 11AM to 11PM PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

PLANT CITY AUTOMOTIVE Leap of Faith Volume II

Twelve years ago, Tony Mendolia was searching for a new beginning in life. At the time, he had 40 years of experience, 27 as an ASE-certified automotive technician in his back pocket and a dream of entrepreneurship in front of him. He asked himself if he could make this work? Would people support his shop? He took a "Leap of Faith" and purchased Plant City Automotive in September 2007. Due to his 21 years of experience in town at Firestone, Tires Plus and Olin Mott, Mendolia was well known and respected within the community. Plant City Automotive quickly gained a reputation for providing fair pricing and honest, customer-orientated service. Today, Plant City Automotive continues to offer the same quality customer service and honest work the community has come to know and love. “We offer great service at a fair price and we don’t cut corners, we do not take shortcuts,” said Mendolia. Six years ago, Tony's wife, Holly came to work at Plant City Automotive full time, and with eleven years experience in the automotive parts industry she was a perfect fit. It was at Carquest Auto Parts and Advance Auto Parts that she obtained an extensive knowledge of parts. Holly is able to effectively identify the parts and quickly place an order for replacements, and she's great at finding hard to find parts. Previous to that, Holly worked at JCPenney for 13 yrs so she's really customer orientated. So, she's really customer service orientated. Leap of Faith Vol II: In January 2019, Mendolia "passed the baton" to his bride (as he calls her) and today, Holly and Brent run the day-to-day operation and Tony oversees. “Brent is an excellent technician,” said Mendolia. “One of the top-if not the top- tech in town. Not only is he an ASE master tech, but he is also a GM specialist with 17 years of factory training. I'm blessed that he was tired of the corporate politics and I was able to find him. David, our second tech is out recovering from open heart surgery. Dave has been with Plant City Automotive 12 years and is also a master tech." “We start with diagnostics, and you’re always going to know what work needs to be done before we do it; and you will know the price.” said Mendolia. “We don’t put band aids on work, but instead make a complete repair.” PAGE

Plant City Automotive services most import and domestic models, and offer the following services: Air Conditioning Brakes Oil Changes Exhaust Systems Electrical Work Scheduled Factory Maint. Check Engine Light Diags General Diagnostic Tune ups and Driveability And more. With over 135+ years of combined industry experience, the staff at Plant City Automotive has extensive knowledge of many makes and models. The Mendolias use their experience to educate customers on the importance of the necessary repairs. Tony takes photos of the issues the staff comes across in the shop and will post the photos to Facebook, using the social media platform as an opportunity to educate customers on the importance of vehicle maintenance. As many people know, the automotive industry has moved to the next level with more and more electronics every year. "We are in the process of tooling the shop with the equipment needed to continue into the future. New scanners, new computers, and new air conditioning equipment are a few examples" said Mendolia. "We're almost done with a 4 year program from ATI (Automotive Training Institute) on new technology and office procedures to make your visit a smooth and easy to understand experience".

Plant City Automotive goes the extra mile to provide courtesy services to customers, as a thank you for your business. The company offers free pick-up and drop off, and arrangements can be made for after-hours pick-up or drop off. Furthermore, the company is the only Plant City-based repair shop associated with TechNet, a network of over 10,000 nationwide, independent repair shops dedicated to providing customers with nationwide benefits. "One of the many benefits is the 2 year or 24,000 mile warranty covering parts and labor,” said Mendolia. “Another includes a 6 or 12 month same as cash program with the Plant City Automotive Technet credit card.Through TechNet, customers receive roadside assistance, nationwide warranties, road hazard protection and more at no extra cost. Customers can redeem these services nationwide.“ Customers rave about the quality service and honest work completed by the staff at Plant City Automotive. Happy customer Monica Moon rated the shop five stars: “The mechanic there worked very diligently, you could tell you knew what he was doing . The people that own this place are sweet, honest, trustworthy people who have always hired top of the line staff with an amazing attitude and a goal to make their customers happy without squeezing every penny that have out of them.” Kerry Garner, another happy customer, said: “Super friendly and great customer service!! Tony and his wife are awesome, extremely knowledgeable, and honest. Definitely will be recommending them to my family and friends in P.C. who needs car repair services!” If Plant City residents are looking for a reputable repair shop, built on honesty, professionalism and integrity, look no further than Plant City Automotive. At Plant City Automotive, customers are back on the road in no time.

2303 James L Redman Parkway | Plant City, FL 33563 | (813) 754-7106 | plantcityauto.com Hours: Monday- Friday 7:30AM to 5:30PM PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

PLANT CITY AWNING & ALUMINUM Floridians know even minor tropical storms can cause damage to homes and businesses during hurricane season. At Plant City Awning & Aluminum, located at 806 S. Woodrow Wilson St. #1 in Plant City, Larry Johnson and his team are keeping residents covered all year long. A full service aluminum contractor serving all of Hillsborough County, Johnson provides services to both residential and commercial clients. They have been serving the area for over 50 years, offering services to residential customers that include screen rooms, glass rooms, carports, pool enclosures, patio awnings and more. Custom details are also available. After serving local residents for more than 50 years, Johnson said his favorite part of the job is still meeting a wide variety of people. “It’s when those repeat customers return and you know you’re doing the right thing, that you’ve done a good job,” said Johnson. Johnson said his weekday mornings typically start at 6 a.m. and end at 6:30 p.m., and he also makes weekend appointments to take care of his clients. “We’re diversified and experienced enough to get these projects done in a timely manner,” said Johnson. The company has a warehouse onsite to help complete larger-scale projects. “We can do anything from repairs to full replacements,” said Johnson. “Every project is engineered to what the customer needs and we follow all code standards.” Plant City Awning & Aluminum has an A-plus rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and is part of both the Aluminum Association of Florida and the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce. Johnson attends First Baptist Church of Plant City. Satisfied residential customers have left five-star ratings for Plant City Awning & Aluminum on Google. From Rebeka Moore: “These folks are the best at what they do, completely professional. We love our new screened-in porch. They were done with the job and clean-up in less than two days. The result is a very nice porch that ties in with our home like it was part of the original plan.”

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Bob Ford was another happy customer: “Great job. On time for a quote, on time for the job. It was done quickly and cleanly, everything I asked for.” On the Better Business Bureau page, numerous happy clients left favorable reviews for Plant City Awning & Aluminum. Diane D. let a positive review after choosing Larry’s team over six other companies: “Larry offered a fair price and had a lot of industry and product knowledge...The dedication that Larry and his crew showed us is second to none and very much appreciated. It’s nice to deal with a business that takes pride in their materials and workmanship. We highly recommend them.” Plant City Awning & Aluminum won the inaugural FOCUS Reader’s Choice Award last year for Best Screening Company, and Johnson was honored. “It was very pleasurable and unexpected, but very much appreciated,” he said. With all of his clients, Johnson still focuses on keeping the goal in mind that he’s had since the company’s inception: To provide quality products, competitive prices and service before, during and after the sale. While much of Johnson’s work is primarily for residential clients, he’s also serviced major commercial businesses throughout Plant City and Hillsborough County. One of his favorite projects to date was when he replaced an awning for the Florida Strawberry Festival after it was damaged by Hurricane Irma in 2017.

Plant City’s Dairy Queen was the first commercial job Plant City Awning and Aluminum completed in the history of the company.

His work dates back to when Plant City Awning and Aluminum first opened in 1961. That year, his company did the awning for the Plant City Dairy Queen. While the building has since been reconstructed, a photo of the original Dairy Queen still hangs in the lobby. Additional commercial clients include Plant City Airport, the National Guard Armory and several projects with South Florida Baptist Hospital. Most recently, Johnson and his team completed the awning for Plant City’s new Pelican’s SnoBalls, which will be opening soon. For estimates and images of Plant City Awning & Aluminum’s work, head to their website at www.plantcityawningandaluminum.com. Johnson and his team will do estimates in-house through appointments at a convenient time for customers. For your residential and commercial awning needs, contact Plant City Awning & Aluminum today for service backed by more than 50 years of experience!

806 S. Woodrow Wilson St. #1, Plant City, Florida 33563 | (813) 659-2501 www.plantcityawningandaluminum.com | info@plantcityawningandaluminum.com PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

POPPELL INSURANCE Established in 1964 as Harrell & Poppell Insurance, Redd Harrell & R. Tom Poppell began the insurance agency in Harrell’s mother’s living room. Tom later bought out Reed’s interest and the firm became Poppell Insurance. Now, the organization is under the leadership of Tom’s sons, Jon and Mark Poppell. Brothers Mark and Jon Poppell, share management duties as vicepresidents for the company their father established in 1964. They are proud to continue his legacy of hard work, integrity, and generosity. “Our father said ‘take care of the customer and everything else will take care of itself,’” said Jon Poppell. As an independent agency, Poppell Insurance offers both commercial and personal insurance coverage from multiple companies, including Progressive, Safeco, Tower Hill Auto Owners, Travelers and numerous homeowners insurance companies. Poppell Insurance aims to find insurance coverage that best fits their clients budgets and needs. “Gives our office the ability to check with more than one market and help find the right policy to fit a customer’s needs,” said Jon. “Not all homeowners or auto insurance coverage is the same.” The agency’s devoted staff is committed to being a leader in anticipating and exceeding client needs. Working with Poppell Insurance assures clients of having a high quality, cost effective risk management solutions for all their insurance needs. As a full-service independent agency, Poppell Insurance provides an array of coverages, including: Personal Lines Homeowners, including Mobile homes Automobile, including Motorcycle, Boats and RVs Life Insurance Commercial/ Business Insurance Property General Liability Workers’ Compensation Group Health/Employee Benefits

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Poppell Insurance employs a team of incredibly passionate agents and office staff. According to Jon, most of the staff has worked for Poppell Insurance for ten-plus years, including Connie Bonds, a personal lines agent, who has worked for the insurance company for 30 years. Commercial Lines agents Patty Lyons and Belinda Howell have worked for the company for many years as well. Receptionist Evon McDonald and Personal Lines representatives Leann Collins, Cynthia Kelly and Rachel Walls are celebrating 20 years with the company and personal lines agent, Judie Chapman, has worked in the insurance industry almost her entire life. According to Jon, Judie was hired by Moody & Moody Insurance at age 16. Moody & Moody was established in 1959 in Plant City. In 1996, Poppell Insurance purchased Moody & Moodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business and acquired the employees as well. Chapman, like the entire Poppell Insurance staff, is dedicated to helping clients navigate the overwhelming world of insurance. Poppell Insurance is loved and cherished by the community. The insurance company has won the Readersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Choice Award, presented by FOCUS Magazine, two years consecutively. Many who hold policies with Poppell have done so for decades. One Google review noted he is a 40 year customer of Poppell Insurance, one said other insurance companies would not insure his commercial vehicles when he started his business, but Poppell Insurance was there to help. This hometown and family-owned/operated company wants to earn your business and keep it for a lifetime. For more information, stop in, visit poppellinsurance.com, or call 813-752-4155.

503 W Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd | Plant City, FL 33563 | (813) 752-4155 | poppellinsurance.com Mon-Fri 8AM to 5PM PAGE

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RAULERSON, CASTILLO AND COMPANY CPAS AND CONSULTANTS, LLC Step into the offices of Raulerson, Castillo and Company, and one can feel a sense of community. Not only between colleagues in the office, but between the certified public accountants and Plant City. This shouldn’t come as a surprise, as Raulerson, Castillo and Company provide accounting, financial services, tax preparation and consulting to community businesses throughout the Greater Plant City and Brandon area. The team at Raulerson, Castillo and Company strives to help business owners achieve their financial goals, so in turn, the business is more profitable. In fact, the firm’s logo of a compass symbolizes how they help clients navigate through the maze of tax laws, regulations, budgeting and strategic planning. Firm partners, Dan Raulerson and Irene Castillo, said the firm is made of up of accountants with knowledge in a wide array of concentrations, from audits to estate planning to tax preparation. This allows the firm to handle several client concerns. “We have a high level of expert professionals who know their craft and know it well,” said Raulerson. Raulerson, Castillo and Company’s clients come from various industries, ranging from agriculture, medicine and transportation. Raulerson says the firm recognizes that their work is beyond the scope of just eastern Hillsborough County. “We know the part of the sector we serve is the economic backbone of this country,” said Raulerson. “That responsibility is taken seriously.” However, the sense of community doesn’t begin and end with the numbers: Each year, the staff chooses one day per year to volunteer at the United Food Bank of Plant City. Castillo says it’s important to the staff to not only assist the community the financials of small businesses but to also give their time to public service. This sense of service and community shouldn’t come as a surprise: Firm partners, Raulerson and Castillo, were both raised in the area and earned their degrees at in-state universities. They returned to the area and gave back to the community that raised them. PAGE

Raulerson, Castillo, and Company was voted Best Accountant in the 2019 Readers’ Choice Awards.

Raulerson is a graduate of Florida State University, where he earned an accounting degree in 1979. He is a seventh generation Floridian and grew up in Brandon but fell in love with Plant City. So much so, he became involved in the city government: He was elected to the City Commission in 2007 and the Commission elected him to serve as Mayor from 2010 to 2012. In 2012, he served in the Florida House of Representatives in District 58. In 2017, Raulerson retired from politics to continue his career in accounting. Castillo is a 2006 graduate of the University of South Florida, where she earned a bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in accounting. While completing her coursework

at USF, Castillo interned under Raulerson and upon graduation, was hired. In 2015, she became a partner in the firm. Currently, Castillo serves on the Board of Directors of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Aspire. Raulerson, Castillo and Company hold the principles of professionalism, responsiveness and quality to provide outstanding service to clients. However, the sense of community is at the heart of Raulerson, Castillo and Company.

1907 S Alexander St #2, Plant City, FL 33566 | (813) 752-6604 329 Pauls Dr, Brandon, FL 33511 | (813) 689-9297 rcwcpas.com PAGE

FOCUSBUSINESS

SOLUTION SOURCE REAL ESTATE SERVICES Solution Source is a certified and licensed general contracting and roofing firm, headquartered in the logistics hub of southeast Plant City. The company is fully insured, properly licensed, financially secure and ready to get to work for those in need of end-to-end service or in need of just one type of service. The staff of Solution Source comprises industry professionals with 100-plus years of combined industry experience. With a focus on high quality work, customer service and operational efficiency using the latest technology, it’s no surprise that Inc. Magazine has named Solution Source one of America’s fastest-growing companies five years, consecutively. Solution Source has also been recognized as one of the Business Observer’s Gulf Coast 500 list of largest companies in 2018. HousingWire Magazine named Solution Source as one of the fastest-growing businesses in 2014 and 2015, respectively, jumping the list from #26 to #7. Solution Source works directly with the owners, investors and property managers of residential and commercial properties across the state of Florida to provide a full range of solutions, including: Repair Renovation Restoration Roofing New Construction Looking for a custom home builder? Look no further than Solution Source. Solution Source works in tandem with Tampa Bay’s preferred custom home builder for new construction and renovations, providing clients with the best in craftsmanship. From flooring to window and door to kitchen and bath, Solution Source is committed to getting property renovations in a timely manner. The company believes that properties are move-in ready when they’re properly maintained and highlight the best features of the home. From inside to out, Solution Source is dedicated making any property shine. As a licensed roofing firm, the industry professionals make installing a new roof or repairing an existing roof easy from start to finish. Gutter maintenance is a breeze with seamless gutters made of galvanized steel, copper or aluminum. When disaster strikes, Solution Source is there to help guide customers through the often overwhelming aftermath of storm, water or fire damage. PAGE

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Restoration specialists manage every aspect of the property repair process from beginning to end, so clients can rest assured that Solution Source’s skilled professionals will have their property restored in no time. The necessary repairs can be untimely and often unexpected, leaving property owners in a tough spot to budget for the restoration. Solution Source offers 100% financing with an approved credit check, allowing customers to make payments that best fit their budget.

Solution Source is dedicated to the improvement of Plant City’s business community. As a member of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and the Plant City Economic Development Group, Solution Source understands the impact that economic development has on community development. With membership in these organizations, Solution Source is part of the effort to create a diversified, vibrant business climate and provide jobs for residents in our community.

New to the Solution Source team is realtor E. Michelle Valdes. Valdes entered the real estate industry years ago, before transitioning her professional career into Tint Plus, a graphics and window tinting company in Plant City. In 2018, she founded Operation Paying it Forward, a nonprofit dedicated to performing random acts of kindness to benefit the lives of others. In 2019, she went back to school and become a licensed real estate agent. She is a member of the National Association of Realtors. She says she was thrilled to kick off her full time real estate career with Solution Source.

Furthermore, Solution Source is a member of the Tampa Bay Builders Association, National Association of Home Builders and the Florida Home Builders Association. The company also has an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau. Membership in these organizations allows Solution Source to stay up to date, not only on current trends, but also current materials, recommendations, certifications, sustainability, among other topics.

“I choose Solution Source because I wanted a company that loves the community like I do,” said Valdes. “The team here at Solution Source is awesome!”

From flooring repairs to building a concrete pool to insurance claims, Solution Source’s team of experts can help property owners, investors and property management companies across Tampa Bay build commercial and residential properties that far exceed expectations. Solution Source is Tampa Bay’s one source for infinite solutions.

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TENNESSEE JANE BOUTIQUE According to Forbes Magazine, 90% of start-up businesses fail within their first year. More fail in the next five years. Tennessee Jane Boutique owner, Hanna Sampson, serves as an exception to that bleak statistic. She began Tennessee Jane Boutique as an online only business in 2016 with a $500 investment. A year later, she opened a brick-and-mortar location in south Lakeland. The company rapidly grew and Sampson knew it was time to look for more space. “In our first year of business, we did a half million in sales,” said Sampson. “Tennessee Jane is a debt free company and I opened both stores with the profit the company made.” In May 2019, Sampson announced that Tennessee Jane Boutique would be opening its second location in historic downtown. After a three month build out, on August 3, Tennessee Jane Boutique officially opened its doors to an eager Plant City community. She has always craved the downtown feel for Tennessee Jane Boutique. When the space- previously occupied by the Camilla Rose Tea Room and A PEACE of Plant City- became available, Sampson said she hopped on the opportunity to have her shop in Plant City’s downtown district. “I am so excited and I have always loved boutiques in old historic buildings,” said Sampson. “Plant City has been so welcoming and my hope is by establishing my business in downtown Plant City that it will give courage to other business owners to come to historic downtown. If fellow business owners see us doing well, maybe they’ll want to open in downtown.” Located next to Norma’s Cuban Sandwich Shop and The Bank of Tampa on one of the busiest intersections in downtown, Tennessee Jane Boutique was born out of the creative mind of Sampson while she was a stay-athome mom. She is a devoted mother of three: Rhett, Emmylou, and Ella. Her husband Quentin Sampson, who is a Fire-Medic for Hillsborough County, often helps the boutique with shipping their online orders. Tennessee Jane Boutique carries an inventory of what is trendy and in style, often letting customers on social media vote for what items they’d like to see in store. Currently, the shop has its summer inventory on the sales floor, much of which includes tops with pops of neon yellow or pink, paired with stripes, snake skin, and leopard patterns. Owner Hanna Sampson PAGE

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This is the season of floral dresses, rompers, jumpers and shorts as well. The shop offers all merchandise is sizes small to extra large and at times sizes 1X - 3X. The Tennessee Jane Boutique team offers a personalized shopping experience, where customers feel like they’re shopping with their best friends. Whether it’s helping a customer find the perfect outfit for a girls’ night out or finding the perfect accessories to jazz up a floral maxi dress, the girls at Tennessee Jane Boutique are there to help. Tennessee Jane offers a wide selection of Erimish bracelets, currently touting a selection of navy blue, burgundy, teal and more, as well as one of the summer’s hottest accessorytassel earrings. Where does Hanna Sampson credit her success? She gives it all to God. “It’s a God thing, not a Hanna thing,” said Sampson. “God used me for something great and I truly believe Tennessee Jane came about because of Him. People have always supported Tennessee Jane.”

120 N. Collins Street | Plant City, FL 33563 | (813) 652-8230 Tues-Fri 10AM to 6PM | Sat 10AM to 3PM | Sun & Mon Closed PAGE

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THIELEN ENVIRONMENTAL The white board in Caleb Thielen’s office at Thielen Environmental has his team’s appointments for the day listed, from tree removal jobs to routine commercial lawn maintenance. As hurricane season approaches, that list keeps growing. But Thielen, 26, knows he and his team are up for the challenge. “That’s our bread and butter, hurricanes,” said Thielen. The Lakeland-based environmental company, located at 2226 S. Combee Road, offers services including erosion control, debris hauling, tree trimming, landscaping, lawn maintenance and tree removal. Thielen Environmental was born out of a desire to serve clients during Florida’s most tumultuous season of the year. Thielen and his brother, David, opened their doors in 2017 as Hurricane Irma was forming. “We bought two bucket trucks and went into business, just the two of us,” Thielen said. At the time, the brothers had spent two years working for their uncle’s tree service, Arbor Tech Environmental in Shaver Lake, California, where they removed more than 14,000 hazardous trees. Born and raised in Eagle Lake, Thielen always had a desire to return home to Polk County. “This is where we’re from,” he said. “We wanted to be the local, hometown tree service.” It didn’t take long for the company to make a name for itself. In their first week of business, the Thielen brothers picked up a contract with the Miamibased Florida Power and Lights. Since then, their team has grown from two to eight. Thielen bought out David six months ago, and has hopes of doing more utility trimming with power companies as his business continues to grow. As his team has grown, Thielen has focused on continuing to offer topnotch customer service to his clients. All of his employees are professional arborists who receive safety training in-house. For the company, a typical day includes sending out one crew to mow grass, a second crew to trim trees and a third crew to work on erosion control at site development locations. With a growing company, Thielen continues to plant his roots by expanding the services the company offers. PAGE

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“We do a lot of tree work for construction companies and paving companies,” he said. “We work with all of the major paving companies around Central Florida. We also do land clearing for site developers and commercial lawn maintenance. As far as our residential services go, the phone rings every day and we’re continuing to pick up new clients.” And of course, there’s hurricane preparedness. Besides helping homeowners and commercial clients before and after a hurricane hits, the company also partners with FEMA to do additional debris hauling and tree removal following major storms. “It’s a good thing to do for the community,” said Thielen. “It helps people get back up and running.” In just two years, the company has developed a number of satisfied customers. Brooke Bailey, a ThIelen Environmental customer, left the company a five-star rating: “Very respectful, efficient and knowledgeable. This is the company to call if you want it done right the first time.” Dylan Cappello, another satisfied customer, also left a five-star rating: “Would highly recommend [Thielen] for any tree removal or trimming.” Thielen Environmental is licensed, insured and offers workers’ compensation for all employees. Current Thielen Environmental clients include The Avenue Apartments and the Village at Lake Highland apartments, both located in Lakeland, real estate agency The Ruthvens and numerous additional residential and commercial properties. Thielen Environmental is part of the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association. “We have all the equipment we need to be successful and we’re competitively priced,” said Thielen. Thielen hopes to double in size within the next year. Hoping to keep the business in the family, he already has one future employee in mind -- his 1-yearold daughter, Alaina. “I plan on having her out in the field with me in a couple of years, riding around,” said Thielen. For all tree removal, lawn care and maintenance needs from the professionals who have worked coast to coast, contact the homegrown team at Thielen Environmental for a free estimate.

2226 S. Combee Road, Lakeland | (863) 651-8316 | thielenenvironmental.com caleb.thielenenvironmental@gmail.com PAGE

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THE WOODEN SPOON DINER A wooden spoon has become an archaic tool for food preparation. But in Manny Rousso’s kitchen, a wooden spoon is an essential tool for the success of his restaurant, The Wooden Spoon Diner, serving as inspiration for the restaurant’s name. “We were trying to think of a name and my wife and mother were looking for things I use in the kitchen and my wife says ‘he always cooks with a wooden spoon, he can’t start unless his wooden spoons are cleaned and ready,’” said Rousso. He chuckled and then shared that his mother reminded him that a wooden spoon wasn't always used for stirring when he was growing up. The restaurateur has decades of experience, as his father owned Mike’s Drive Thru in Bartow for several years beginning in 1996. In 2005, the family opened Gloria’s Restaurant in Bowling Green. In 2012, Rousso opened Sunshine Cafe, a breakfast and lunch establishment in Sun City Center. He then sold the cafe in 2016 and transitioned into restaurant consulting. A year later, Rousso opened The Wooden Spoon Diner on Lithia Pinecrest Road. The restaurant is a success and two years later, he is proving that he can do it again. Rousso opened the doors to The Wooden Spoon Diner’s Plant City location on Tuesday, July 23. Located at 712 Collins Street, the restaurant remained vacant for many years; Plant City residents are excited to see business bustling at the location once again. “Plant City reminds me of Bowling Green: A small town where you go into a restaurant and know everyone. Everyone comes into enjoy the food and atmosphere, and that is where the slogan “where friends become family” came from," said Rousso. The Wooden Spoon serves up American comfort food, creating hearty meals at a great price point, while retaining quality. “Quality is never something we play with,” said Rousso.

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MUST-TRY DISHES: For Plant City residents who have yet to try The Wooden Spoon, Rousso has a few dishes he would recommend: Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: Two pancakes for $6.50 or choose a side of bacon, ham or sausage for $8.50 Fried Mushrooms: $5.99 Philly Cheesesteak: Ribeye, Provolone cheese, onions, mushroom and bell peppers on a roll for $8.99 Pork Tenderloin Sandwich: Served fried with lettuce, tomato, and mayo for $8.99 Maryland Crab Cake Sandwich: A 6-ounce patty with lettuce, tomato and mayo for $12.99. At The Wooden Spoon, all kids meals are $6.00 or less. Breakfast includes pancakes, eggs and bacon, French toast and more. For lunch, the restaurant’s youngest patrons can choose from Spaghetti, Cheeseburger and Fries, Chicken Strips with Fries, Fish and Chips, and Macaroni and Cheese. Kids have their choice of juice or milk for $1.99 or a free soft drink. Although the restaurant is relatively new, Plant City residents are impressed by the welcoming and attentive front-of-the-house wait staff, the atmosphere and the food served at The Wooden Spoon Diner. “Good comfort food. Brunch/lunch place. Saw some familiar faces there. Friendly service and food arrived timely…” said Angela Hays. “This is exactly what Plant City needed: A great hometown restaurant. Our waitress was Julie the best waitress ever. Really wonderful food, all of the staff is awesome! Will definitely be going back, and bringing the family!!” said Shelby Lindsey. Becky Frost rated the restaurant five stars, sharing: “Great service and very friendly management. We had fried mushrooms, Burger, and Buffalo Chicken Wrap. Everything was amazing. We will definitely be back!!” If you have not tried the delicious comfort foods offered by Plant City’s newest restaurant, be sure to visit Manny Rousso and his team at The Wooden Spoon Diner from 7:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday.

712 S Collins St | Plant City, FL 33563 | (813) 652-8192 | woodenspoonpc@yahoo.com Hours: Mon: Closed | Tues- Sun: 7AM- 2:30PM PAGE

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WATSON CLINIC

Announces New Urgent Care South Facility

In recent years, walk-in care options have become increasingly popular. When people are sidelined by a minor illness or injury, they want the convenience of immediate care options without the high costs or hassles associated with a traditional emergency room visit. A consistent innovator since 1941, Watson Clinic recognized this developing trend early. Located on their main campus at 1600 Lakeland Hills Blvd. in Lakeland, Watson Clinic Urgent Care Main has long served the needs of patients and non-patients alike who needed expert walk-in care. The success of this department inspired the opening of XpressCare Highlands, a highly popular segment of Watson Clinic’s beautiful Highlands location at 2300 E. County Road 540A in South Lakeland. “There’s no predicting when an illness or an injury might occur,” says Watson Clinic urgent care specialist Jarett A. Gregory, DO. “When it does, people want to have the peace of mind in knowing they can receive immediate care they can trust.” As has been their custom from the beginning, Watson Clinic has swiftly responded to the needs of the community by announcing an additional urgent care facility. Scheduled to open in January 2020, Watson Clinic Urgent Care South will offer the same caliber and breadth of services as these other locations, and then some. The facility will feature a staff of board-certified physicians who all possess emergency medical experience and who are each boardcertified in family medicine, internal medicine or pediatrics. Their services are complemented by highly professional care team members. The conditions they treat will include colds, flus, coughs, earaches, small lacerations, bladder infections, sore throats, minor injuries, upper respiratory infections, dehydration and much more. “Oftentimes, someone won’t know for sure if their illness is a minor emergency or indicative of a more serious event,” says Dr. Gregory, who will be part of the Watson Clinic Urgent Care South team upon opening. “Our facility will be equipped to expedite the transfer of patients who actually require hospital care, including a state-of-the-art I-Stat troponin which helps to process patients who are experiencing the initial signs of a heart attack.”

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The facility will also feature the conveniences that patients have come to expect from the Watson Clinic brand, including after-hours and weekend availability, easy access to x-ray, CT, ultrasound, EKG technologies, and an onsite laboratory for faster blood testing and more efficient diagnosis and treatments. Urgent Care South will renovate and expand upon the existing Watson Clinic South location at 1033 N. Parkway Frontage Rd. in South Lakeland, a beloved facility that has served the community since 1985. The expansion will set the total square footage of the building at 37,138 square feet â&#x20AC;&#x201C; over 9,000 square feet of which will be devoted to the Urgent Care department. The location of Urgent Care South is ideally situated just off the Polk Parkway within short distance from South Lakeland, Plant City and surrounding communities.

712 S Collins St | Plant City, FL 33563 | (813) 652-8192 | woodenspoonpc@yahoo.com Hours: Mon: Closed | Tues- Sun: 7AM- 2:30PM PAGE

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CREATIVE FLOWER DESIGNS BY GLENN Glenn Mathias has built a 40 year career surrounded by one of nature’s most beautiful creations: flowers. “I have always enjoyed flowers,” said Mathias. In the late 1970s, Mathias created a flower arrangement for a friend, who told him it looked great. Since then, Mathias has dedicated his life to creating beautiful floral gifts. In 1979, he opened Creative Flower Designs by Glenn. Originally located on Wheeler Street for 2 years, Glenn then ran the business out of his home. In 1986, he relocated the business again to its present day location- the corner of Alsobrook and Evers streets. The floral industry has changed dramatically over the past four decades. With the popularity of floral departments within big-box stores, it is harder for the privately owned and operated florists. Mathias says his relationship with the floral wire service, Teleflora, and the support of his hometown community, he is able to continue his craft. “When a customer says ‘I want a mixed bouquet,’ it gives me more creative freedom and makes me and my staff work our imagination and creativity,” said Mathias. Creative Flower Designs by Glenn is staffed by six industry professionals, dedicated to creating works of art through the medium of floral arrangement. Whether discussing floral options to create the arrangement or making the final delivery, the staff of Creative Flower Designs by Glenn is committed to providing customers with the best product possible. Surrounded by roses, carnations, lilies and more, it’s no surprise that Mathias has such a cheerful disposition. He says its attitude and customer service that sets his business apart from other florists. “All shops have the same kind of flowers we do, but it’s our speciality in customer service that makes the difference,” said Mathias. “It’s our attitude and service towards people and I train all of my staff to be the same way.”

Creative Flower Designs by Glenn was named Teleflora’s Top 1000 floral businesses for the shop’s outstanding contribution five years consecutively. The florist was also recognized by Unity in the Community for making a contribution to one of the organization’s events. Mathias credits his parents’ tenacity and the support of the community for his four decades of success. “I credit hardwork and my parents ability to work very hard and Plant City’s idea that I could do it,” said Mathias. Whether you’re looking for a floral arrangement for your event, a corsage and boutonniere for prom or flowers “just because,” look no further than Creative Flower Designs by Glenn. To order your custom arrangement, call Glenn Mathias and his team of floral experts for the finest floral arrangements and gifts in town.

116 W Alsobrook St. | Plant City, FL 33563 | (813) 754-7449 Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30AM-5PM | Sat 8AM- 12PM | Sun Closed PAGE

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GRACE MANOR AT HUNTER’S CREEK Choosing a senior living community with loved ones can often be a difficult decision for families. At Grace Manor at Hunter’s Creek, located at 765 W. Grant St. in Plant City, Executive Director Sheryl Vitelli and her team provide a vibrant community with the services that put families’ minds at ease. While Grace Manor already had retirement villas available for retired seniors, the company opened its new assisted living facility in May 2019. The new location is already very popular and is growing in capacity. Due to their success, Grace Manor at Hunter’s Creek will begin work on an additional offering in six months to one year of 50 independent living suites. The new location will be a step between Grace Manor’s retirement villas and the assisted care program where residents can maintain independence while receiving some support, such as by having laundry and meal services provided. Reservations are currently being accepted, with eager people already on the waiting list before construction has even begun. Vitelli and her team hope are quickly making Grace Manor at Hunter’s Creek the premiere location for families with senior residents at all stages. “What makes us different is that there hasn’t been a larger-scale community like this offering our amenities in Plant City,” said Vitelli. “This new community has been on the hearts and minds of our owners since establishing Grace Manor Retirement Villas. There is truly nothing like us in the community. We are Plant City’s first premier community that will be a neighborhood for retirement living to independent living to assisted living.”

families can focus their energy on enjoying time well spent with loved ones and continue to create wonderful memories in the resort-style setting of a beautiful community. “Staying involved in the community is a vital part of life here at Grace Manor,” said Vitelli. “This space has been created for their comfort and safety while adding designer features and beautiful furnishings. We offer our residents a good quality of life, and we see amazing transformations happen here.” Residents can entertain visitors from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Grace Manor also offers family activities. The first family night hosted two weeks ago had a combined 75 residents and family members in attendance. Family members praised the Grace Manor environment. John Harrer, whose mother-in-law has a Grace Manor suite, left a positive review: “The staff is phenomenal. The activities are fun for all. I highly recommend this assisted living facility for your loved ones.” Interested families can schedule a tour by calling Grace Manor’s family advisor at (863) 872-6222, or by calling the community at (813) 743-8701. To learn more, visit gracemanorhunterscreek.com. Grace Manor at Hunter’s Creek is a Mainstay Senior Living Community. Mainstay Senior Living has been honored to serve seniors in Central Florida for over a decade and prides itself on being a trusted resource to seniors and their loved ones.

Grace Manor takes day-to-day burdens off the minds of residents and their families while providing numerous onsite amenities, services and social activities. Meals are freshly prepared by the community’s chefs, with breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks provided to residents. Fresh produce is delivered three to five times per week. In addition to health and wellness, safety is a top concern. Grace Manor is equipped with round-the-clock caregivers, as well as video surveillance, visitor/vendor technology and a gated community. Additional services available to residents include in-house doctors, salon amenities including manicures and pedicures, an in-house movie theater and game room, daily socials and transportation services for medical appointments, shopping and lunch outings. With the day-to-day taken care of, Vitelli said,

765 W. Grant Street | Plant City, FL 33563 | (863) 873-6222 www.gracemanorhunterscreek.com PAGE

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LINDA’S CRAB SHACK Twenty-six years ago, on the corner of Reynolds and Palmer streets, there was a Trailways bus stop, a Western Union and property owned by Ramon and Linda Garza. A friend talked the Garzas into opening the space as a seafood restaurant and since, Linda’s Crab Shack has served as Plant City’s taste of the sea. In 1993, Linda’s Crab Shack opened its doors at 202 E. Reynolds Street. Since its opening, the restaurant has offered generous portions at an affordable price. Loyal customers return again and again for their favorite meals at Linda’s Crab Shack. That popularity is proven year after year when voters select the restaurant for “Best Seafood” during the annual Readers’ Choice Awards presented by FOCUS Magazine. Linda’s Crab Shack is known for devil crab, a deep fried ball stuffed with crab meat. The Garzas make 100 to 150 deviled crabs from scratch each day to fill the demand. With no onions or pepper in the stuffing, there’s more room for the tender crab. “People order them to ship to the out-of-state homes, families or friends, even as far away as Alaska,” said Ramon. They are a treat you can get just anywhere.” Many also order large numbers of the deviled crabs for parties like birthdays and graduations. Must Try Dishes Include:

Today, with the help of their son Steve, Linda’s sister Doris Nipper, Amy Hyde, and Reba Crews, Linda’s is open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and until 9:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. Folks keep coming back to Linda’s Crab Shack for the exception service, attention to detail and the delicious offerings. J.R. Pitts said, “Linda's Crab Shack is a Plant City original. Best (and largest) devil crabs in town. Menu is filled with comfort seafood…” Nancy Brandon recommends the restaurant’s crab cakes: “Being originally from Maryland, I grew up eating delicious seafood..Linda's is the only place that I have found that makes the real deal when it comes to crab cakes…” If you’re looking for a delicious selection of seafood classics including crab legs, coconut shrimp, or a catfish dinner, be sure to visit the team at Linda’s Crab Shack at 202 E. Reynolds Street. Enjoy the renovated outdoor patio and a view of historic downtown with good eats and good friends.

• Fish Tacos with Fries: Two soft tortillas with breaded Grouper strips and topped with creamy Cole Slaw. The basket includes fries for $9. • Grilled Shrimp with Rice: A colorful $16 meal with 10 grilled and seasoned Shrimp on a bed of seasoned Yellow Rice and 2 slices of crunchy garlic bread. • Clam Chowder: Hearty, thick and plentiful chunks of clam and potatoes make this $5 chowder the perfect bowl of comfort food for a rainy day. • Linda’s also offers wine, imported and domestic beer, bottled beer and Corona. Buckets of bottled Bud Light and Corona (5 bottles per bucket) are offered for $12 and $15, respectively.

202 E. Reynolds Street | Plant City, FL 33563 | 813-754-0492 Monday-Thursday 11:30AM to 9:00PM | Friday & Saturday 11:30AM to 9:30PM PAGE

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The Lakes and The Oaks at Countrywood have stunning new homes for sale! If golfing lakeside peaks your interest, the 55+ Community of The Lakes is for you! Interested in a family-friendly community? The Oaks is an All-Age Community with plenty of amenities to keep your family active and entertained.

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STARTING IN THE $90s

Two, Three & Four Bedrooms Available

TAKE A PERSONAL TOUR OF A NEW HOME

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Community Features 9 Holes of Golf Pet-Friendly Clubhouses & Pools RV Storage Playground-The Oaks

Call Today to Schedule a Tour! (813) 703-2666

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

CountryWood Estates, 745 Arbor Estates Way, Plant City, FL 33565 Must meet residency requirements. Specifications, options, and layout vary by model and are subject to change without notice. Additional restrictions may apply, see sales associate for details. PAGE

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FOCUSBUSINESS

PLANT CITY SHEDS Building Structures and Relationships

Owner Caesar Espaillat and wife Jessalie take great pride in their growing business, Plant City Sheds. Launching their business in May of 2017, the quaint town of Plant City was the perfect place to bring their dream to life. “We love this city. We love the family vibe,” states Espaillat. “I have met a bunch of wonderful people so far. We truly love this community.” Plant City Sheds is located at 2616 East Highway 92 and is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It offers customized sheds, gazebos, and dog kennels. Many models are on site and ready for purchase, but customers have the option to custom design their own outdoor portable buildings.

Plant City Sheds has received many positive reviews from satisfied customers: “I am very impressed with the quality of shed my wife and I purchased!” – Jared B. “Professional all the way, the owner is very helpful and knowledgeable. Great product and experience! Highly recommended.” – Chris G. “We love our cabin from Plant City Sheds!!! .... The best deal and friendliest dealer anywhere ... and we went to a lot of them!” – Brenda H

The sheds are built to owner specifications, providing a vast array of features, product colors, metal profiles and configurations. All units are steel frame products and built to last. The gazebos are constructed from stained pressure treated wood and topped with a tin roof. With an assortment of gazebo styles, stains and roof colors to select from, the owner can also add additional features such as bench swings and seating areas. Florida residents will appreciate the optional screen feature for the gazebos. The dog kennels are made from cedar and topped with a tin roof. Pet owners are offered the option of single or double run dog kennels. Again, an assortment of stains and roof colors are available to customize the product. Plant City Sheds services all over central Florida. With difficult location set ups, Espaillat surveys the property first to assure the product will fit. If not, he will recommend other options even if it means turning the business away. Deliveries are free within a thirty-mile radius. Espaillat states, “It’s not always about the sale, it’s about the person. It’s about the personal relationship. That’s how I run my business.” Customer service is key for Plant City Sheds.

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Hillsborough Title is able to provide the following: In-house Real Estate Attorneys • Helping you and your clients with legal assistance Over 30 Years of Experience in the Tampa Bay Market • Multiple locations statewide Personalized Client Support and Dedicated Departments • Short sale negotiation, builder division, REO division, lender & investor services and much more Multiple Underwriters • Closing tough deals that others can’t

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REAL ESTATE

Walden Lake Review BY NATALIE SWEET

alden Lake Community Association Board Meetings are held the third Monday of each month at 7:00 at the Walden Lake Community Association office building on Griffin Boulevard in Walden Lake. The next meetings are scheduled for August 19 and September 16. The meetings are open to all Walden Lake HOA members. Please keep an eye on the announcement boards at all entrances for dates and times of special meetings and events. During the month of July, there were 19 sales in Walden Lake and one sale in Walden Lake East. The average sale price was $272,005 with an average of 36 days on the market. There are currently 21 active listings for sale in Walden Lake with an average list price of $391,519 and

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an average of 70 days on the market. Three of these homes are in Polo Place and listed from $874,900 and $999,999. Without these 3 listings included, the average list price is $302,667. There are 20 properties Pending Contract with an average list price of $300,961 and average of 38 days on the market. Save the date! The Walden Lake HOA Board will be hosting the first Annual Fall Festival on Saturday, October 26 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.. There will be 8 inflatables, lots of free carnival games, goody bags and pumpkin decorating, a photo booth with craft, face painting and more! This is an event you don’t want to miss! The Survey regarding the golf course property is now closed and the

The July sales are as follows: Address 1439 Walden Oaks Place 1451 Walden Oaks Place 208 Valencia Court North 3230 Alcott Avenue 2834 Hammock Drive 3206 Concord Way 2916 Spring Hammock Drive 3219 Concord Way 3202 Thackery Way 4019 Kipling Court 1911 E Timberlane Drive 3219 Alcott Avenue 3315 Silvermoon Drive 3217 Alcott Avenue 3514 Kilmer Drive 2804 Clubhouse Drive 4005 Asbury Court 3002 Sutton Woods Drive 2003 Masters Way 3060 Sutton Woods Drive

Sales Price $180,000 $192,000 $192,500 $196,500 $239,900 $254,000 $249,900 $263,000 $264,000 $265,000 $284,900 $285,000 $386,500 $292,000 $298,000 $315,000 $319,900 $320,000 $345,000 $406,000

results are posted on the community website at www.WaldenLake.org to the tab “News” click on WL Resident Advisory Council and there is a link on the right side of that page. You will need to have a login for the HOA site to be able to access this information. If you have a problem with setting up

Living Area 1335 Sq’ 1529 Sq’ 1718 Sq’ 2294 Sq’ 2031 Sq’ 2696 Sq’ 1808 Sq’ 2100 Sq’ 2147 Sq’ 2350 Sq’ 2130 Sq’ 2105 Sq’ 2171 Sq’ 2169 Sq’ 2102 Sq’ 2525 Sq’ 2667 Sq’ 2482 Sq’ 2778 Sq’ 3357 Sq’

Pool No No Community Private No Private No No Private Private Community No Private Private Private Private Private Private Private Private

Garage 2 Car 2 Car 2 Car 3 Car 3 Car 2 Car 3 Car 2 Car 2 Car 2 Car 2 Car 2 Car 2 Car 2 Car 2 Car 2 Car 2 Car 2 Car 3 Car 3 Car

access to the site, please get with Bette at the HOA office at betteg@ WaldenLake.org and she will help you. Feel free to contact me about any real estate questions or about this article. NSweet@KW.com or 813-7589586.

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THE DEFINITION OF “CLASSIC” FOR YOUR FOREVER HOME! “A WORK OF ENDURING EXCELLENCE & STYLE SERVING AS A STANDARD OF RECOGNIZED VALUE”

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LOCATED 1/2 MILE OFF S FRONTAGE RD, OPEN MON, TUE, FRI, SAT, 10-5, SUN 1-4 EASY! 3 MINUTES TO I-4 ACCESS , BETWEEN BUCHMAN/WHEELER & PARK RD I-4 EXITS CEMENT BLOCK WALLS FOAM FILLED, GRANITE COUNTERS, VINYL DOUBLE PANE WINDOWS, HAND-LAID REAL BRICK, NO FAKE FOAM TRIM, SECURITY SYSTEM, FULL YARD IRRIGATION, NATURAL GAS WITH TANKLESS HOT WATER HEATER, MUCH MUCH MORE. COME SEE THE BEAUTIFUL QUALITY AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY!! 75 X 117 FT HOME SITES NO CDD!! HOA ONLY $250 A YEAR A NATURAL GAS COMMUNITY!!

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ONE 4BR 3 BA , ATTACHED 3 CAR GARAGE “VALENCIA” MODEL. READY END OF JULY FEATURING HAND LAID BRICK KITCHEN PACKAGE. 1238 WILD DAISY MLS T3165786 ONE 4BR 3BA PLUS BONUS ROOM 2500 SQ FT “SEVILLE” MODEL, COMPLETED! FEATURES HUGE 27 FT DEEP ATTACHED GARAGE, AMAZING HUGE KITCHEN, BIG FRONT PORCH WITH CEILING FAN AND SWING . 1237 WILD DAISY MLS T3116579 ONE 3BR 2 BA PLUS OFFICE “ HONEYBELLE” MODEL, READY EARLY AUGUST HAS

ATTACHED SIDELOAD 2 CAR GARAGE PLUS 28X18 DETACHED BLOCK CONSTRUCTION WORKSHOP GARAGE. 1213 WILD DAISY MLS T3165712 COMING SOON!! READY LATE FALL , ON ONE ACRE IN CITY LIMITS OF PLANT CITY WITH CITY WATER & SEWER AND NATURAL GAS!! NOT IN AN HOA!! 4BR 2 BA “CITRUS” MODEL. PRICED $380’S , CALL FOR DETAILS.

OTHER AVAILABLE PROPERTIES CALL ME !!! 813-299-7155 MLS T3167196 VACANT LAND JANIE ST , RUSKIN : DEEP WATER HOME SITE, 95FT DIRECTLY ON LITTLE MANATEE. NO BRIDGES AND 1/2 MILE TO TAMPA BAY AND THE GULF ! BEAUTIFUL SEAWALL THAT IS IDEALLY SET UP FOR DOCK. .28 ACRE PUBLIC WATER/SEWER NO HOA OR CDD!!! MLS T3170220: 6109 W KNIGHTS GRIFFIN RD, PLANT CITY SERIOUS HORSE PROPERTY! 10 TOTALLY FENCED LUSH ACRES. GORGEOUS 3340 SQ FT 4 BR 2 FULL BATH, 2 HALF BATH BLOCK HOME, HUGE POOL & LANAI, FIREPLACE. 18 STALLS, MOST WITH TURNOUTS. ALL STALLS HAVE AUTO WATER & ELECTRIC. TACK ROOM AND FEED STORAGE. ALSO HAS 34x37 WORKSHOP WITH ITS OWN WELL AND SEPTIC.

MAKE $$$ HERE WITH HORSE BOARDING/TRAINING FACILITY OR SUMMER CAMP! MLS COMMERCIAL T3182131 106 N COLLINS ST , PLANT CITY HISTORIC BUSINESS DISTRICT’S MOST PRESTIGOUS OFFICE BUILDING, 3262 SQ FT, ROOM FOR UP TO 20 EMPLOYEES. FULLY UPDATED AND GORGEOUSLY AND METICULOUSLY RENOVATED WITH ABSOLUTE CARE TO MAINTAIN HISTORICAL ACCURACY. AN ABSOLUTE TREASURE!

ANNOUNCING A NEW COMMUNITY IN THE CITY LIMITS OF PLANT CITY!! CITY WATER/SEWER AND NATURAL GAS ONLY 31 HOMES TO BE BUILT ON 75 X 145 FT HOMESITES

DEED RESTRICTIONS PLANNED TO ALLOW FOR BOAT AND RV PARKING ! CALL ME FOR QUESTIONS OR TO BE ADDED TO INTEREST LIST!!

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All Ser vices are FREE and Confidential Pregnancy Tests & Verification Limited Ultrasounds Abortion Education Adoption Information Prenatal & Parenting Classes Material Assistance STI Testing W ellness Referral

304 N. Collins St. Plant City, FL 33563 813-759-0886 www.plantcitypregnancycenter.org

Looking for Answers?

ADVERTISEMENT The Plant City Housing Authority has a local project in process, and would like to notify local labor force who is seeking temporary employment for participation, in the Laundry room additions at Maryland Heights Development Please contact New Vista Builders Group LLC, for open opportunities at 4906 N. Manhattan Ave., Tampa, Fl. 33614, (813) 200-8340, or contact on-site superintendent Bill Beckwith on the job site at 513 S. Maryland Avenue, Plant City, FL 33563.

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RISING STAR

Braden

Raburn By Taryn Storter Braden Raburn, a rising junior and an extraordinary student athlete, is a three-year varsity letterman in swimming at Strawberry Crest High School. He is the son of Ed and Christie Raburn. For most students, competing in one major sport would be enough. However, Braden is also engaged in numerous other extracurricular activities. Growing up, Braden discovered his love for competing while on the soccer field, as well as, in the pool during his elementary years. Motocross became part of his life too, as he rode his bike for several years. When Braden entered middle school, he took a break to focus on academics, but became involved in athletics again when he transitioned to high school. Braden wrestled his freshman year and has competed as a varsity swimmer for three years. In his free time, Braden also participates in CrossFit at Plant City CrossFit. Beginning in his freshman year, Braden found the desire to compete with the swim team. He expresses, “the feeling that you get while standing on the block, right before you dive in, the rush of adrenaline, that’s what I love most about swimming. It feels so different at a meet than at practice.” When asked what his favorite sport is, Braden laughs and says, “Hockey. I know it doesn’t have anything to do with swimming, but I always wished I had played hockey. It’s so exciting and very fast paced, I may start playing recreational hockey.” Braden encourages other athletes, “if you have the chance to participate, don’t wait! Do it as soon as you can. It is always better to try something and quit if it’s not right for you, than to never have tried it and regret it.” Outside of athletics, Braden is very involved in his school. As Vice President of FFA, he helps lead his chapter to achieve various honors and awards, as Strawberry Crest is a very competitive in the FFA. Braden is also the President of the Student Government Association. He leads the First Priority group at SCHS, a Christian group on campus, and he serves on the First Baptist Church of Plant City Leadership Team. In all his leadership positions, Braden aims to be a positive example. He explains, “I always strive to do everything with excellence. I want to be the best I can possibly be so that people can see that I am trying my hardest and putting everything into it. I always want to be a good Christian influence on my friends, on my sports teams, and in my clubs.” As for the future, Braden is excited to complete his two remaining years at Strawberry Crest. He aspires to earn a trip to the State Championship for swimming his senior year. After high school, he hopes to attend the University of Florida to obtain a degree in either biology or chemistry, and then on to medical school. PAGE

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SPORTS

Sports Team of the Month Top Gun Wrestling Club BY TARYN STORTER

op Gun Wrestling Club is the first of its kind in Plant City. It gives kids from elementary to high school the unique opportunity to wrestle competitively outside of a high school setting. The organization currently has about 35 kids that come consistently to train. As a club with an open-door policy, Top Gun, led by Coach Will Terry, trains students from all around the Tampa Bay area. Will Terry coaches not only the Top Gun wrestling club, but is also the assistant coach of Strawberry Crest High School wrestling team, where he has coached for the past eight years. Terry pours his heart and soul into his job and inspires the wrestlers on his teams. When asked to point out some of his star athletes from his Top Gun Wrestling Club, Coach Terry explains that he has several younger students who rise to the top. “Rex Glover”, Terry says, “would be my go-to kid at the elementary level.” Rex has been training at Top Gun for two years and is “a great kid with a kind heart that just happens to be tough as nails.” At the middle school level, Coach Terry says Arden

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Swindle is his pick, because of her work ethic. Terry has found much success in training female wrestlers. He feels that Swindle could be the best one yet. Coach Terry explains that he has some exceptional students who serve as leaders: Jarret Affronti (a returning state qualifier), Carter Willis, Talon Swindle, and Jackie Font. Jackie finished third at the Girls’ State Championship last season and placed sixth in the nation at National High School Coaches Association Nationals this summer. Jackie is also on Team Florida’s national team. These students have been instrumental in the success of the club. Coach Terry expressed, “My inspiration for starting this club is to provide kids with a positive, loving environment, especially during the off-season.” It can be difficult for students to find somewhere to practice the sport they love when it is not in season, so by Top Gun giving kids the chance to train, it helps them in the end. While at Strawberry Crest, Terry’s student athletes have won District championships and has had many

top three finishes, but he states, “It takes a lot of off-season preparation to get over that hump. So to be able to train year round, we had to start a

club. We now train anyone from ages 7 all the way to high school.” Terry invests much time and energy in wrestling and the kids he coaches. He explains, “The great thing about wrestling is it doesn’t matter what race you are or what your socioeconomic background is, the only thing that matters is how hard are you willing to work to achieve your goals. At the end of the day, we care more about what type of young man or woman we are putting into society. I couldn’t care less about wins or losses. I care about if you are going to be a great husband or wife, or are you going to be a steward to your community. If we can show kids some love and how to work hard and persevere, the wins and championships will take care of themselves. We truly have a family atmosphere here at Top Gun.”

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EXTRA

Cindy Ryan BY HEATHER DAVIS

indy Ryan is a local resident and naturalist who creates art that is an extension of the natural world around us. Her unique type of art, in which she uses fibers and textiles to create conceptual images, incorporate both plant and animal fibers. Cindy has been creating fiber art for fifty years and credits her grandparents for sparking a lifetime of making art from elements found in nature. Cindy's grandfather taught her to identify useful plants and incorporate them into functional, sturdy baskets with multiple uses. She still harvests wild grapevine, Virginia creeper root, camphor saplings and reclaimed cypress for weaving and for displaying her work. As her interest in plant fibers grew, so did her fascination with the colors and textures of animal fibers (wool and silk) incorporated into tapestry, vessels, and wearable art. Cindy's scientific background, increased her curiosity in our micro environment, and much of her tapestry work is an interpretation of microscopic organisms brought to life by advances in scientific imaging. Decades of travel to her work sites at biotechnology hubs on the west coast introduced her to different cultures and perspectives, all of which influence her current work. As life reflects art or vice versa, much of Cindy’s art reflects her background in science and love for the natural world around her. It is this unique blend of expertise and ability to work with many different types of fiber that give Cindy’s fiber arts such a pleasing aesthetic. It is also interesting to see how she is able to combine both animal fibers right alongside plant fibers, creating a representation of complexity in even the simplest of her subjects. For the past five years Cindy has been semi-retired, and after a shoulder injury limited the size of her basketry creations, she decided to devote more time to creating her unique style of wool and silk fiber art. She joined the East Hillsborough Art Guild, where she found support, camaraderie, and opportunities to exhibit and sell her art. Her work was featured at the Periphery Exhibit at the Bing Rooming House Museum and is currently on exhibit at the 1914 Gallery. She looks forward to supporting the Taste of Laura Street again this year. To see, touch, and experience the fiber art Cindy creates offers one a glimpse of the wonder of the world around us. It is this love of science and nature along with the skills passed on by her family that enables Cindy to make her art. To view, purchase or commission Cindy’s fiber art you may find her on Facebook or Etsy at twistedwisdomshop.

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EXTRA

Affordable Day Away Winter Park, City of Arts and Culture BY BARBARA ROUTEN

restaurants across from Central Park. Most are open daily. Central Park is a lovely, shady, grassy place to picnic and observe the trains that come through it. Stop and smell the flowers in the rose garden, people watch, catch a free concert or movie or sit a spell on a bench. Pick up fresh produce and plants at the Winter Park Farmer’s Market, 200 W. New England Ave., one of Central Florida’s best-reviewed markets. It’s open from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday except the third Saturday in March, when the Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival (now in its 60th year) happens, attracting more than 350,000 visitors. Another good reason to make the trek to Winter Park is its free annual

Autumn Art Festival from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 12 and 13 in Central Park. This juried festival features live music and work by more than 180 exclusively-from-Florida painters, potters and sculptors. The town is also home to the Bach Festival Society of Winter Park, the third oldest continuously operating Bach Festival in the United States, in Rollins College’s Knowles Memorial Chapel, 1000 Holt Ave. The festival, founded in 1935, will celebrate its 85th anniversary season (September through April) with visiting musicians from around the world. Whether you seek boats, trains, art, music, good food or shopping, Winter Park can be your enjoyable, affordable day away!

Boutiques, eateries and museums are in the heart of Winter Park, across the brick street from Central Park.

inter Park features a quaint little downtown in Central Florida with a railroad running through it. Sound familiar? Why go 70 miles northeast of Plant City for that? Go so you can visit the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of Natural Art, which houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany’s works. Well known for the colorful glass lamps that carry his name, the American designer Tiffany was also a painter, photographer, potter and jewelry maker. The museum contains works from every stage of his life and includes a reconstruction, with original elements, of the chapel he made for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Go to Winter Park so you can ride a train. SunRail runs between DeBary and Poinciana every thirty minutes from 5:30 a.m. until at least

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9:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Stops en route include Winter Park and downtown Orlando. (SunRail does not operate on weekends.) Find ticketing information, schedules and prices ($3.75 to $9.50 per person round trip from Winter Park) at https://sunrail.com. Visit Winter Park so you can take the relaxing, informative Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour through several lakes. From the open-air pontoon boats see water birds, wildlife, tropical flora and waterfront mansions and hear about the area’s history and celebrities. Boats leave hourly from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily from 312 East Morse Blvd. Tickets are $14 per adult and $7 per child. They accept only cash and checks. Visit scenicboattours.com to reserve your tour. If shopping and eating are more your style, you’ll find plenty of upscale, trendy shops and

The Winter Park Farmers' Market features fresh produce and plants on Saturday mornings. Photo courtesy of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce

Moss-draped trees and ferns line this canal on the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour.

EXTRA

Wanda’s

Words of Wisdom BY WANDA “LEWIS” ANDERSON

elax and take care of yourself. Cracked feet, I know from wearing sandals all summer my feet can tend to be dry. Let’s look at an unusual way to help with dry and cracked feet. Mix 1 cup of Listerine or your favorite antiseptic mouthwash, 1 cup vinegar white or apple cider, 2 cups of warm water in a large basin or plastic container. Soak for 10 – 15 minutes then use a foot file or scrubby sponge to help remove the soften dead skin. You may have to repeat and double or triple the recipe as needed for your feet and the size of the container. Rub your feet with Vaseline or Vaseline lotion and wear socks to bed. Now that your feet are soft and relaxed let’s get you some sleep. Here’s some tips to help. • Simply submerge your face in the bathroom sink filled with cold water for 30 seconds to relax your nervous system and bring down your body temperature – perfect for sleeping. • Try singing yourself to sleep. This soothing action will help you drift off to sleep. • Curl your toes, yes this works. The repetitive motion releases built up tension. • Pat or rub your tummy. The

same techniques that work on a baby can be just as effective for an adult. Rub your tummy in a circular motion for a deep sleep. • The blue light that emanates from the electronic devices slows the production of melatonin, which is the fastest route to losing sleep. Experts recommend tuning out from the TV and iPhone at least two hours before we hit the sack. Wearing orange or ambertinted glasses while you use electronics before bed allows you to block out blue light and get a better night’s rest. Now that you’re rested you can stay alert throughout your day by chewing mint gum. The act of chewing increases both heart rate and blood flow to the brain, and refreshing minty flavors stimulate the nervous system. Chewing warms up the brain and has been shown to increase productivity. Certain scents have been proven to reduce fatigue and increase your sense of alertness. Citrus makes you less anxious, rosemary oil will beef up your memory, and cinnamon and peppermint will motivate and energize you. Until next time relax, enjoy and be thankful… PAGE

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EXTRA

Leaders in Faith

The Younger Generation

hands and feet of Jesus. Without the leaders who have poured into me over the years, I wouldn’t be able to do what I do today.”

BY CHERYL JOHNSTON

astor Jeremy and Karen Bendorf lead the Soul’d Out Youth ministry and the GAP young adult group (Graduates and Professionals) at Plant City Church of God. In addition to their church responsibilities and full-time careers (Jeremy is a safety engineer and Karen teaches Kindergarten at Walden Lake Elementary), the parents of six sons spend hours at ball practices and games and open their home each Monday night for dinner, study/prayer and friendship time with any young adults who show up. From their own youth program experiences prior to their marriage, they definitely realize the importance of developing young leaders. This month we invited a few of those 20-somethings they’ve mentored to share ways their leadership roles have prepared them for work and life.

Julian Brownlow Bethany Yates

This Southeastern University graduate teaches math and science to 4th graders at Sikes Elementary. Educating children seems a perfect career choice for the oldest of four in the homeschooling family of Derek and Sarah Yates. Bethany also teaches the Pre-School GROW class on Sundays at PCCOG. She explained, “I joined Soul'd Out Youth the summer before 9th grade. Since then, I’ve been blessed to be under three different youth pastors (Nelsons, Campbells, and now Bendorfs) who have all exemplified excellent servant leadership. Knowing those real life examples has influenced and encouraged me to serve and love others. A teacher is responsible for helping students master academic skills, but they also have opportunities to serve and love on a room full of kids every school day. Even though some days are super challenging, nothing is more rewarding than the chance to be the

Employed now with CAE, a worldwide leader in training for the civil aviation, defense/security, and healthcare markets, Julian earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Engineering from the University of South Florida in 2015. At church he leads Bible studies and directs the Soul’d Out Drama Team. “I’ve been in Soul’d Out and GAP seven years now,” Julian said. “Having the support of other staff members has been crucial in difficult spiritual moments, and the leadership skills I’ve learned for managing people and conflict and getting things done have helped me greatly in my professional career. I try to offer that same support to the younger students at church as well.”

Amber Harwell

Since graduating with her Finance degree from the University of South Florida in May of this year, Amber continues her seven years in leadership with Soul’d Out Youth and now GAP. She co-teaches the

Pre-School GROW class on Sunday mornings with her friend Bethany Yates, and also volunteers regularly with Special Olympics in the Tampa Bay area. “Through my leadership experience in Soul’d Out Youth and GAP, I’ve learned to never give up on someone,” Amber wrote. “I believe I’m a better listener now, with a better understanding of where students are coming from. One big thing I’ve learned through Mr. Jeremy (Bendorf) is to love everyone, and not just the people I get along with. Love people, no matter who they are, and make them know they are loved and special.”

Marilyn Santana

This teacher of 2-year-old preschoolers at Shiloh Baptist Learning Center during weekdays also co-teaches the 4th-5th grade GROW class on Sundays at PCCOG. “I’ve been involved in leadership almost five years,” Marilyn offered. “The Soul’d Out Youth and now GAP (Graduates and Professionals) groups have helped me in so many ways, including becoming more involved with the students I lead and staying on top of my own Bible reading – even with my busy workweek schedule. While leadership is not easy, watching students grow in their faith is so worth the time and energy. Through GAP group, I’ve become more consistent and grown closer to my friends. Knowing we are there for one another is amazing, but the most important thing is that we all become one when we worship the One who brought us together for a purpose.” [And in conclusion, the Nelsons, Campbells, Bendorfs and so many more would add: “And thanks to their love and service in Soul’d Out Youth, GAP and now GROW classes, the next generation has been privileged to learn from these four amazing witnesses for Christ.”]

GAP Crew in Atlanta for Passion Tour PAGE

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