Planning a wedding in 2024-2025? Your Mom, Mother-in-Law, and many others in your circle may have lots of things to tell you about the way things were done when they celebrated their marriage. There seem to be so many “shoulds” and requirements that fall into the wedding etiquette category. As a wedding planner for over twelve years my goal is to help couples celebrate their marriage in ways that are meaningful to them despite the weight of these etiquette rules and requirements. Your wedding planner’s job is to help you make decisions that will honor your priorities, while at the same time educating and informing you as to why these decisions might flu some feathers if they’re not handled delicately. Basically, it’s all about managing expectations! So, let’s talk about some new trends that are really solving some of these issues and making your wedding celebration more fun and more meaningful for you as newlyweds as well as your friends and family.
Problem: You want a picture with every guest, but you don’t want to spend two hours taking pictures.
813 478-6554
New Trend: It’s called “The Barn Dash” or “Ballroom Dash.” Instead of having a receiving line or Table to Table Pictures, have your DJ announce The Barn Dash. It’s best done after the First Dance, but before dinner. Have all of your guests stand and gather in Selfie Groups, like they’re about to do a selfie. The DJ throws on a fun and fast paced song that’s long enough for you to run from table to table and have your photographer follow you and snap a fun picture of the newlyweds with every person at the reception. Instead of an hour, you’ll spend about 4 minutes and you’ll love the pictures!
Problem: The wedding day feels like it’s about everyone else and you want to spend more meaningful time together and make some core memories!
New Trend: Here are a few ways to build in time for making wonderful memories for just the two of you. Consider a First Touch or First Look. Some couples even exchange a gift and/or their personal vows at this time. This is a great option if you are worried you’ll mess up your makeup crying. Also great if you’re shy speaking in front of guests.
Do a private cake cutting! Let your guests stay on the dance floor while you get your cake cutting picture out of the way.
Enjoy a private last dance! While the guests are being lined up for your special exit you get to enjoy one last dance for the night in the mostly empty reception space. So romantic and also a great way to end the reception.
Problem: Planning a wedding can be so stressful! So many rentals, vendors, details and lots of work. We want our marriage celebration to be fun, not work!
New Trend: An all-inclusive venue is like a one-stop shop. The best ones have a list professional vendors from which to choose, so that you’re not stuck with just one vendor option. These venues work like a well oiled machine. Your wedding just became fun and stress-free because the venue coordinator and planner takes care of all of the details
I hope these new trends solve some of the challenges you’re facing when planning your wedding. Follow me on Instagram at www.Instagram.com/wishingwellbarn for more great information about planning your wedding. Or, even better, schedule a tour at the beautiful and magical Wishing Well Barn! I would love to hear more about your dream wedding!
FEATURE: WEDDING VENDORS
SPOTLIGHT: WEDDINGS BY CROWN
58
BUSINESS: COCOROW
home/hōm/noun: a comfortable and familiar place where family and friends gather; especially somewhere that just feels right.
At First Baptist Church Plant Cit y, family and friends gather ea ch week in a comfortable and familiar environment to encourage one a nother as they live life t ogethe r. It just feels right. 3309 James L. Redman Pkwy Plant City, FL 33566
WORSHIP THIS SUNDAY | 9 AM + 10:30 AM
P l an a vis i t ! Sca n the QR c o d e or go to fb c p c .co m / v i s it
This month, the Plant City Chamber Leadership class stopped by the office as part of their Media & Tourism Day. It was a pleasure to host them and share with the group the ins and outs of our work here at FOCUS. An important part of my message to the class was that even after 20+ years in business, it’s crucial to maintain the ability to adapt, change, and grow. It’s been said print is on the decline; however, our team produced the largest magazine in the history of the company in February 2024. And our team is always brainstorming ways to embrace technology and social media. We’re combining the reach of social media with the benefits of print marketing.
This issue is one of those ways we are innovating. The U.S. Census shows the median age for an American man to get married now 30, and the American woman is 28, older than ever. This issue is aimed at being a guide for newlyweds who are buying a dress, touring venues, and looking for vendors. We hope all are inspired by Plant City’s own Cliff and Crystal Brown, owners of Weddings by Crown, wedding industry leaders throughout Central Florida. They share their story in this month’s cover story.
Readers can submit story ideas to cierra@ floydpublications or provide feedback for the magazine by calling the office at 813-707-8783.
With gratitude and hope,
Mike Floyd
After placing second locally in the Plant City Optimist Club Oratorical Competition on February 19, Plant City High School sophomore Marley Mueller came out on top at the Zone 6 Competition on March 25 at the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center.
Marley placed second in the local competition. Gabby Howell was the local first-place winner but was unavailable to compete at the Zone 6 level. After competing against the top two orators from Winter Haven Optimist Club’s local competition, the judges scored Marley ahead of Luke Besing (Winter Haven High School senior) and Jayda George (Winter Haven High School sophomore).
On Saturday, April 13, Marley placed second in the Optimist International Southwest Region Oratorical Competition and will now advance to the North Florida District Competition, which will be held on Saturday April 27 at 1:00 pm in Bushnell. Marley and first place winner Olivia Bond (LCC Day School) will compete against two representatives from the Orlando region and two from the Panhandle region. On the line are college scholarships for 1st place ($2,500), 2nd place ($1,500) and 3rd place ($1,000). The North Florida District winner will be selected to represent North Florida against seven other US Southeast Districts, working toward a shot at
the World Championship contest, both held July 18-19, 2023 in St Louis, MO. “Marley did an outstanding job at the regional and we are very proud of her. The competition only gets more difficult from here” said Plant City Oratorical Contest Chairman Doris Robbins. “She should represent Plant City well at the North Florida District competition.”
We know as busy professionals there is only so much time in the day to be planning an entire wedding. That is why each of our wedding packages offers you an all-inclusive experience One that allows you to customize your wedding so that your vision shines through, without the stress of planning
3 wedding venues for you to choose from
S c a n t h e Q R c o d e t o v i e w o u r
w e d d i n g p a c k a g e s !
U s e o u r c o d e C C R W e d d i n g s
t o r e c e i v e a n i n c e n t i v e w h e n y o u b o o k y o u r
s p e c i a l d a y w i t h u s !
The commercial airline industry is plagued by crowded airport terminals, unexpected flight cancellations, and uncomfortable, cramped cabins on aircraft. According to the U.S. State Department, Floridians are among the top 10 most eager to travel this summer, and many reports site increased passenger volumes throughout the summer.
Plant City travelers can find solace in private air travel with TRYP.
Elliot Mintzer, President of TRYP Air Charter, shared several benefits of private air travel. TRYP flies out of Plant City Airport, Lakeland International Airport or any other Tampa airport.
“The Pilatus PC12 has one of the best safety ratings and offers exceptional features, making it a great choice for business or pleasure travel. The aircraft cruises above the weather at 28,000 feet and a speed of 300 mph,” said Mintzer. “There is seating for eight passengers, plenty of room for cargo, and AirText available so that you can stay connected during your travels. The luxurious interior cabin has BMW-designed custom seating plus an enclosed lavatory. TRYP is experiencing high demand for its private charter services in Florida.” When you fly privately, parking is a breeze, and you depart from a private terminal away from crowds and security lines. The passenger sets the schedule, not the airline, making it extremely convenient.
With large airlines, travelers often have to schedule their travel plans around the airline’s arrival and departure times, book a layover, or schedule a rental car to reach their final destination. Mintzer says that these problems are eliminated with TRYP.
“The PC12 can access airports unavailable to some jet aircraft, making it a great choice to fly into smaller, regional airports. This feature potentially allows passengers to arrive closer to their final destination. Plus, you get to set your ideal departure time and show up shortly before it’s time to go. If you’re delayed for some reason, your flight won’t leave without you.”
Mintzer says TRYP passengers can travel as they like—comfortably, luxuriously, and privately—napping, watching a movie, enjoying cocktails, or having a catered meal with their guests.
Key West is a top summer destination for TRYP travelers, with an hour’s flight time. Passengers can book a one-way TRYP, weekend TRYP, or a week TRYP. Make new memories of snorkeling in the reefs or enjoying a sunset cruise with champagne.
Private air travelers can head for the mountains when traveling to Asheville, NC, or Thomasville, GA, with a two-hour and one-hour arrival, respectively. In Asheville, you can go tubing down the French Board River or visit the historic sites in Thomasville.
The Bahamas offers many small island destinations only accessible by private air travel but can also get you to Nassau’s Lynden Pindling Airport or other executive airports, including Freeport’s Grand Bahama International Airport or Treasure Cay Airport. TRYP can get passengers to the Bahamas in just over one hour.
Summer travel is certainly going to be busy this year, but with TRYP, passengers can travel where they want, how they want, and whenever they want. Visit flytryp.com for more information on private air travel out of Plant City or Lakeland.
Plant City Entertainment has announced auditions for its upcoming summer musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamrobe, at the Plant City Playhouse on April 30 and May 1, starting at 7:30 p.m. Performance dates are July 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, and 27 at 8:00 p.m. and July 14, 21, and 28 at 2:00 p.m.
Lois Green will direct the show, which Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber created. Told entirely through song, it follows the reimagined Biblical story of Joseph, his father Jacob, his 11 brothers, and the coat of many colors. Joseph is Jacob’s favorite son and is blessed with dreams that foretell the future, in addition to being able to interpret the dreams of others. This causes his eleven brothers to resent him and sell him into slavery. He eventually ends up in Potiphar’s household, where a misunderstanding with his wife lands him in jail. While there, he is identified as a dream interpreter and sent to Pharoah, to help decipher some disturbing dreams. He is successful and becomes Pharoah’s second in command. He is reconciled with his brothers when
they travel to Egypt to beg Pharoah for food during a time of famine. They do not recognize their brother at first, but after testing and proving their integrity, Joseph reveals himself and is reunited with his family.
Green said: “I first saw Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat on Broadway in 1982 when I was a senior in high school living in New York. I loved the show so much that I saved up enough money from my part time job to buy a front row seat so I could see it again. I was enthralled by the performance of Laurie Beechman who played the Narrator. A few years later, I was lucky enough to be cast in a community theatre production of Joseph as a dancer and ensemble player.
Over the years, I honed my passion for the theatre by acting, choreographing, costuming and directing productions in New York, New Jersey, and Florida. I was given the opportunity to direct Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat for the first time 15 years ago. It was a dream come true for me. The first 3 weekends were so well received that the show was extended an additional weekend to
accommodate the sold out audiences. I am thrilled to be allowed a second opportunity to stage it this summer with Plant City Entertainment, Inc. Directing this show again is like becoming reacquainted with an old friend.”
There is a large cast of characters, ensemble singers, and dancers, including a children’s chorus. The music is set to a multitude of different genres, including country-western, hip-hop, rock and roll, and calypso.
Those who audition on April 30 or May 1 should come prepared with a song to perform appropriately for the character auditioning and should wear comfortable clothes and shoes for movement. Auditioners are also encouraged to be familiar with the show’s music, as they may be asked to sing a song at callbacks.
A full list of character descriptions and part requirements can be found at https://www. plantcityentertainment.com/
Each year, Plant City Church of God engages the community in a cooperative effort, helped by people and local businesses, to impact the lives of children locally and globally.
This past December, the congregation hosted “Oh Snap,” Plant City’s first-ever Selfie Walk-Through Museum. The outreach event offered 12 selfie rooms so individuals and families could snap countless fun pictures of themselves in holiday settings. A Living Nativity and Santa Meet & Greet were also part of the celebration.
One hundred percent of the proceeds were shared between three worthy local and global outreach partners. Pastors Jeff & Carla Robinson presented checks for $3,283.00 each to the leaders of those organizations in the Sunday morning service on February 18, 2024.
The recipient ministries and leaders included:
• Pregnancy Care Center of Plant City - Sandi Nelson, Executive Director
• Heart of Florida Youth Ranch in Ocala, FL – Dr. John Sweet, Director
• Caritha Roybul Junior School in Kampala, Uganda –Dr. Jomo & Timika Thomas, Executive Director & Treasurer, respectively.
“Thank you, Plant City, for your participation and support,” said Pastor Jeff Robinson. We sincerely appreciate our patrons, sponsors, and everyone who had selfie fun, making this first-time event such a success. We loved seeing your posts on social media, too! Oh, and in case you’re wondering, plans are already shaping up for Oh Snap 2024!”
On March 25, 2021, the Plant City Observer published a Letter to the Editor submitted by Judy Sullivan Wise. She wrote: “The U.S. flag should be flown every March 29 to honor those who served in Vietnam. It is long past time we give these American heroes the respect they are due. Please proudly raise your American flag on National Vietnam War Veterans Day.”
On March 29, 2024, 51 years after the final departure of U.S. troops from South Vietnam in 1973, Judy’s desire to properly “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans” resulted in a touching tribute to those still living in eastern Hillsborough County. Organized by the Plant City Armed Forces Memorial Foundation, Inc., Plant City Elks Lodge, American Legion, and AMVETS, the well-attended celebration at Veterans Park included Veterans (many in uniform), caring residents, and local officials.
For six years now, the “Plant City Honoring Veterans” event held on a Sunday in early November has hosted approximately 600 attendees for a barbeque luncheon, gift bags, door prizes, and special speakers.
It’s hoped this new effort on March 29 to celebrate National Vietnam War Veterans Day will also become an annual tradition. Signed into law in 2017 as the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act, communities around the country have begun to provide long overdue recognition to those who served in that conflict.
Plant City’s newest tribute opened with prayer by Dr. Daniel Middlebrooks, US Army Chaplain, Ret., colors presented by Plant City High School JROTC members, Pledge of Allegiance led by Sherry Scheitler, and the National Anthem sung by Hope Storter. Speakers included City Commissioner Mike Sparkman, Army veteran Chad Landry, and State Representative Danny Alvarez, who is also a retired U.S. Army veteran.
Representative Alvarez expressed his gratitude and an apology for the treatment Vietnam Veterans received upon returning from duty tours. Since his own family had escaped in 1959 from Cuba’s communist dictatorship, Alvarez felt compelled to serve in America’s military. Now, as an elected public servant, he continues to fight for Veterans’ rights.
One of the celebration’s highlights was seeing retired Army First Sergeant Don Day, a Plant City resident and Vietnam War Veteran, accept the commemorative Quilt of Valor from the Tangled Threads group. Recalling his own 20-year military experience and the loss of many comrades, he remains thankful for our freedoms, especially the right to speak openly and protest peacefully. He shared: “…we have [our rights and privileges] because every day around the world, a bunch of men and women put on one of these uniforms.”
Judy Wise, Elks Lodge Veterans Chairman, is pleased and proud to live in a city that respects our country’s Veterans. “With the various remembrance efforts in March, May, November, and December [Wreaths Across America], we hope our local Veterans understand how much we value the sacrifices they’ve made. And we would appreciate more volunteers to help as well.” To get involved, contact Judy at 863-370-8389.
Additionally, the Plant City Armed Forces Memorial Foundation, Inc., an IRS-qualified 501(c)3 corporation, is once again raising funds for future events and park improvements through the sale of engraved bricks commemorating
those who’ve served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard. The memorial bricks will be placed between the gazebo and the 14-foot Freedom Rising bronze and granite monument at the Veterans’ Monument Park at Courier Field, 703 N Wheeler St. Three lines of engraving with 15 characters each (including spaces and punctuation) may include the veteran’s name, rank, military branch, and dates of service as space allows. Order forms are available online at veteransmonument.com or in person at:
Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce
Plant City Photo Archives and History Museum
Norman McLeod American Legion Post 26 (2207 W Baker St) AMVETS Post 44 (5521 S.R. 60 E)
Simply mail the form with your $250 check or money order to the Plant City Armed Forces Memorial Foundation, Inc. at 133 W. Herring Street, Plant City, FL 33563.
Friends, fun and adventure start at the Y! Has your child wanted to learn more about agriculture and animal sciences? Or do they want to practice their skills in basketball, volleyball or soccer? Do they want to immerse themselves in performing arts or spend the day splashing in the pool? Summer Camp at the Plant City Family YMCA offers all of this and so much more!
Summer Camp starts May 28th! Spaces are filling up fast. Don’t miss out!
Local pastors and Plant City officials are hoping to see a packed City Hall for the National Day of Prayer at noon on Thursday, May 2, 2024. Everyone is welcome!
Since 1952, the U.S. Congress has created a joint resolution for this annual observance; patriots have been invited to pray for our nation. Presently, the following pastors (in alphabetical order) will help to lead the prayers for our Country, our Citizens, and our Community.
• Aaron Brown
• Joseph Caldwell
• Dwayne Howard
• Joe Kelley
• Timothy Knighten
• Jack Myers
• Paul Pickern
In addition, Pastor Brian Stowe and his leadership team will host an evening NDP gathering at First Baptist Church of Plant City. Again, all are welcome to join with other praying people at 3309 J. L. Redman Pkwy.
Plant City native Deanna Jackson is living her dream with two rewarding careers. And fortunately, the one that requires world travel also offers her the flexibility to be an online educator.
In addition to teaching Algebra I through Orange County Virtual School, Deanna travels the U.S. and the world refereeing basketball.
As a professional referee, she has officiated NCAA Women’s Basketball since 2010. This year marks her second for the NCAA March Madness tournament. She also officiates FIBA 3x3 basketball worldwide. On April 6, she officiated a FIBA 3x3 exhibition game, USA vs. Puerto Rico, at the Men’s Final Four.
Summer 2024 will also find Deanna refereeing 3x3 basketball for her first time at the Olympics.
Founded in 1932, FIBA is the world governing body that brings together 212 National Basketball Federations and organizes/ oversees international competitions that include the FIBA Basketball World Cup, the Olympic Basketball Tournament, and 3x3 basketball.
From June 30 through August 5 this year, Deanna will be an official for the 3x3 Olympic championship in Paris, France. Deanna, the daughter of Wayne and Cathy Raburn Jackson, grew up playing in Plant City Parks and Recreation sports programs. Her older brother Chad taught Deanna to play basketball. “I fell in love with the sport from day one,” she said. Game play began at age eight and her athleticism and sports passion led to PCPRD refereeing roles for flag football, soccer, and basketball games at the age of 14. She’s grateful for the help in her younger years from staffers like Richard Calhoun, Jack Holland, Dave Robbins, and Danny and Janet Smith, as well as many volunteer coaches.
While working at the former Sunshine State Federal Savings and Loan office in Plant City from ages 18 to 22, Deanna earned her Finance degree from the University of South Florida. Subsequently, she taught Algebra for eight years at Tomlin Middle School and coached the boys’ basketball and girls’ volleyball teams there. In her third year there, she began refereeing area high school and college games, too.
As more training and certifications followed, so did opportunities to referee in larger arenas and competitions. Naturally, these widened her network of professional coaches, mentors, and officials who encouraged her journey. She credits education from the ETA Officials Camp and mentors such as Tina Napier, Gina Cross, Eric Lewis, Ted Brown, Glenn Tuitt, and many others along the way.
Deanna advises parents and students interested in sporting careers to consider refereeing. “We need good officials,” she explained. “So many kids dream of becoming pro athletes, but there are so many other opportunities. Working as photographers, announcers, sports writers, and referees can be financially rewarding, too. Research all the available options, be trained, and pursue the one you’d enjoy most.”
Of the eleven international referees who will officiate 3x3 in the 2024 Olympics, Deanna will be the only one from North or South America. USA Basketball sent her to the Dominican Republic in July of 2022 for FIBA certification. From that point, FIBA controls nominations to officiate games throughout the world, including the Olympics. Currently, 145 referees in the world officiate 3x3 games.
Regarding the NCAA March Madness Tournament, 116 of the 800 Division 1 officials were selected to serve in 2024.
Deanna is thankful to have two such rewarding careers. Officiating, in particular, has given her the opportunity to travel and work in Canada, France, Hong Kong, Hungary, Mongolia, Qatar, and other countries.
She hopes to continue to be a positive advocate and inspire other young women to pursue future careers in officiating.
APittston, Pennsylvania native whose Sicilian father was a coal miner, JoAnn Migliore graduated from King High School in Tampa in 1969. In October, she and her husband, Pete Rumore, will celebrate 45 years of marriage. Both are retired educators with Hillsborough County Public Schools. Today, their family consists of three grown children and eight grandchildren.
JoAnn describes herself as a “YMCA junkie” because she enjoys so many classes offered at the Plant City Y. As part of her effort to stay fit and healthy, she also enjoys eating vegetables, especially the okra and tomatoes served at Fred’s Market Restaurant.
Tell us a little about your years as a teacher.
After earning my Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Education from the University of South Florida, I taught Business Education for 36 years, 30 of those at Tampa Bay Technical High School and six at Franklin Middle School. I was honored to represent Tampa Bay Technical High School three times as their “Teacher of the Year” nominee. Interestingly, in one of those years, Pete was chosen to represent Hillsborough High School. We don’t think there have ever been spouses named in the same year for that award. I retired in 2015 and still miss the students. I loved them and how they entertained me daily.
What prompted you to become so involved with YMCA classes?
I’m involved in about 15 classes each week, and I especially love time with the “Morning Crew,” which is mostly senior citizens. They are such fun and so positive. It inspires me to see so many still so active. Some of the regular classes I take include Pilates, Yoga, Core, Stretch, Body Pump, Circuit Training, Line Dancing, and Zumba.
How do you spend your spare time with your family and grandchildren?
I like to plan family outings we all enjoy, but it’s difficult getting everyone together at the same time. Things we like most involve kayaking, breakaways to Mary’s Fish Camp in Spring Hill, the Pioneer Florida Museum of History in Dade City, the Walden Lake Park, school activities, and horseback riding at Alafia River Park. Pete and I also have an arena on our Cork area property, where the kids and adults in our family can ride on Saturday nights. Many weekends, we just like to chill at our cabin.
What do you enjoy most about living in Plant City?
I love many things about our “little town.” I love all the “Mom and Pop” restaurants and businesses that I frequent often; I love that there are so many churches; I love the local events and activities geared towards families; and most of all, I love that people know each other and are friends and neighbors who care about each other and our community. I truly feel politeness and Southern hospitality live on in Plant City, and I hope it will stay that way despite the new development and growth. I hope the newcomers adapt and maintain the existing culture of Plant City. It’s been working for a long time to make our town a special place.
What is something fun or unusual most folks wouldn’t know about you?
I was a cheerleader at Franklin Junior High School in Tampa and can still do a cartwheel and a split.
The Plant City Veterans' Monument is a world-class, Veterans' Monument and two-acre Park at Courier Field. Engraved memorial bricks will be placed in the gathering area between the gazebo and the 14-foot Freedom Rising bronze and granite monument. .-
Each brick will become a permanent part of history in Plant City!
Memorial bricks are open to all Veterans of the USA Military Services: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard.
• Three lines of text 15 characters per line, including punctuation.
• Include the name, rank, branch of service and dates if they fit into the character limits.
• First line may contain the name of the honoree or any commemorative phrase, such as "In Honor of," "Honoring," "In Memory of," "Memorial," "Commemorating," "Remembering," or other, phrase, as long as you keep to the 15 character limit per line.
Payment enclosed: Check □ Money Order D $250 Each Brick Donor's Name: -----------------------------
Approaching its 25th anniversary since its founding in 2000, the Plant City Photo Archives is launching a full-scale study of its mission and objectives and will be working with a consulting company to develop both short term and long-term strategic plans.
The Archives’ Board of Directors, Ed Verner, Robert Trinkle, Bill Thomas, Marion Smith, and Gil Gott authorized Executive Director David Moon to hire Community Consultants LLC, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, to undertake the project. Community Consultants corporation specializes in non-profit organizations strategic planning and implementation services.
The project got underway in early April when two consultants of the corporation, Christa Mannarino and Rachel Schulson, met with Moon and Gott to begin formatting the project. This initial stage began with designing an organizational audit, identifying community individuals who will participate in the small group facilitation (focus groups), summarizing the expectations of strategic plans, and defining tracking methodologies to be employed.
The Photo Archives began in 2000 in a hallway, moved into borrowed offices, set up its first storefront operation in 2005, and moved into its current facility in 2009. Current development plans include updating the façade for better visibility and cohesion that will better fit the current historic downtown character. Additionally, the gallery area will be reorganized to provide for greater utility and portability of exhibits and easier identification of resources available. Second, the Huang History Center will offer greater digital research tools including newspapers.com along with other applications yet to be acquired.
Focusing on its main mission, which is to (1) to acquire and preserve the history and heritage of West Central Florida and specifically the greater Plant City area through the collection of its documents and photographs, and (2) to provide the community with easier access to the collections of documents, photographs, and ephemera both physically, by being open to the public and through out-reach programs, and digitally through its website and other online channels.
Assessing its Value – You can help.
Primary among the elements of a strategic plan is what a non-profit organization does for and with its surrounding community. This includes the various programs that have been provided in the past and how they resounded in the community. What works and what doesn’t? What does the community need and want? What do the residents of the surrounding community
want and expect from this organization? What will they support? These and more questions and considerations will be part of the small group facilitation process also called focus groups.
If you would like to participate in a focus group or if you would like to sit down individually with the Archives’ board members or any one of them, please call David Moon (813.754.1578) or Gil Gott (813.417.7559). Or if you have any questions, comments, ideas, suggestions, or want to make a donation call or email (David@plantcityphotoarchives.og) or (gvgott@ gmail.com).
The consultants will be holding focus group discussions at the Archives offices on Tuesday, May 28, and Wednesday, May 29. The Archives office, gallery, and research center are open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The facility is located at 106 South Evers Street at the corner of MLK and Evers Street, in historic downtown Plant City.
Memberships in the Photo Archives are available online at info@ plantcityphotoarchives.org or call 813.754.1578.
Host your big day at a picture-perfect barn on a 30-acre ranch. Located in Turkey Creek, Origins Ranch is a modern and elegant venue with a backdrop ideal for a ceremony and reception. Origins Ranch offers full-service wedding packages, giving couples the option of venue-only rental or utilizing the help of the venue’s coordinators, DJ, catering, and staffing with over 15 years of experience.
5041 Reece Rd, Plant City, FL 33566 (813) 796-5278 | originsranch.org
500-person capacity venue, ADA accessible
A unique wedding venue, forever can begin at one of Cross Creek Ranch’s three on-site venues: The Carriage House, French Country Inn, or The Oak Hall. Each provides an idyllic backdrop for storybook happily-ever-afters. Cross Creek Ranch’s team of skilled wedding planners and coordinators comes ready to give couples everything they need to live out the wedding of their wildest dreams. They also provide all-in-one packages that get nearlyweds their envisioned celebration at affordable rates.
12950 E Wheeler Rd, Dover, FL 33527 (813) 651-0934 | crosscreekranchfl.com
150 person capacity venue, on-site parking & wheelchair access
Fully Equipped Kitchen, On-Site Catering
Sprawling gardens adorned with lush flora and charming pathways create a captivating backdrop for weddings. Located in Dover, Florida, the venue offers on-site locations: The Amphitheater, The Estate Lawn, The Orchid House, The Oriental Garden, The Tropical Garden, and The Formal Garden. From intimate wedding ceremonies to grand affairs, Hardeman’s Secret Garden can fit the vision of any couple’s big day.
3505 N, Gallagher Rd Dover, FL, 33527 (813) 675-7100 | hardemanssecretgarden.com/home
200-person capacity venue
Shuttle service from parking lot to event space
Indoor & outdoor event spaces on-site
Timeless elegance Tours available by appointment only
Forever starts at Wishing Well Barn, an all-inclusive wedding barn, ensuring a hassle-free and smooth wedding experience. Getting ready in the Bridal Cottage and ManCave with your bridal party. Exchange vows by the pond under moss-draped oak trees and party in the barn under twinkle lights and breathtaking chandeliers. Call to schedule a tour today!
4302 Pippin Rd, Plant City, FL, United States, Florida (813) 478-6554 | wishingwellbarn.com
Fully decorated ceremony and reception
Flatware, dinnerware, & chairs included in package
On-site Bridal Suite & Tack Room
Enjoy views of pastures, ponds, wooded area, flower fields
When DeWayne Howard isn’t pastoring GraceWay Church on Sundays, he officiates weddings throughout the southeastern United States as a licensed and ordained minister. “Pastor D” considers it a privilege to be a part of his client’s wedding day, creating meaningful and memorable ceremonies uniquely designed to fit each couple. Clients say Pastor D is professional, personable, and attentive, praising his sense of humor in easing their wedding day jitters.
weddingsbypastord@gmail.com
931.808.8866 | www.weddingsbypastord.com
Packages available to fit couples’ needs
Non-religious, nominally religious, or religious options available
Premier Ceremony reflecting couples’ values
Wedding Rehearsal & Pre-Martial Counseling available Also officiates Vow Renewal Ceremonies
Located in Dover, Florida, Southern Roze creates floral arrangements for the every day and the extraordinary. Founder and florist Jen Harris consults with brides to bring their vision to reality. Southern Roze can create centerpieces, corsages/boutonieres, bouquets, and more. Brides can choose from dried pampus grass and flowers for the bohemian-style wedding or colorful, lush arrangements with roses, hydrangeas, tulips, etc. Brides should call Jen for a free consultation at (813) 495-4317.
Southern, organic and bohemian style Elegant, modern, romantic style Reception, ceremony, and personal florals 3205 Fritzke Rd, Dover, FL, 33527 (813) 495-4317 | southernroze.com
Free consultation
Serving Plant City and the surrounding areas, Second Plate Catering can accommodate weddings big or smaller. From black tie to the most casual receptions, Second Plate Catering offers buffet or plated dinner with service staff so clients can sit back and enjoy their big day with family and friends over a delicious meal.
Chef created meals in a variety of cuisines including Italian, Latin, or American Service staff available for buffet or plated meals Can accommodate small or large catering events with a custom curated menu 2309 Thonotosassa Rd., Plant City, FL 33563 813-252-1668 | www.secondplatecatering.com
Weddings by Crown’s stress-free planning process guarantees that couples’ dream wedding will be unforgettable and smooth. Crystal Brown shares that the Weddings by Crown team wants their clients to feel loved and taken care of so the newlyweds can enjoy their big day.
Plant City natives Cliff and Crystal Brown, owners of Weddings by Crown, are renowned leaders in the wedding industry throughout Central Florida.
Weddings by Crown is a full-service wedding company specializing in planning, DJ, photography, videography, bridal dresses, and more. It assists in approximately 200-plus weddings per year.
The Browns and their team of professionals are proud to offer the highest-quality wedding experience, from the initial consultation to the sparkler exit at the end of their clients’ big night.
“We treat every wedding like it’s our own,” said Crystal. “From start to finish, we execute exactly what our couples dream of for their wedding day.”
Cliff and Crystal sat down with editor Cierra Craft to discuss the varying aspects of their business and share some tips for soon-to-be newlyweds.
How did Weddings by Crown come to be, and how did the two of you get into the wedding industry?
Cliff: When I was touring with the band, I had the opportunity to sing and perform at multiple weddings. I immediately fell in love with the experience! I saw the wedding industry as a way to allow me to stay local and not live out of a tour bus, which in turn gave me way more time with Crystal and the kids. At the time, Crystal was a school teacher and the cheerleading coach for the Tampa Bay Lightning. She would come and help me at weddings, and many times, there would be no coordinator or anyone in charge, so she would step up as needed.
Crystal: It started with creating timelines for Cliff for his wedding day to help it go smoother. Before I knew it, I was working and training alongside some of the most prestigious wedding planners in the industry. I was hooked! There is no better feeling than building relationships with my couples and making their weddings come to fruition.
I like to think Cliff and I brought our God-given talents together. We fell in love with weddings, and our business continued to grow from there. We have also been so blessed to hire the best of the best in the industry. Our team consists of the most passionate, fun, and qualified wedding planners, DJs, photographers, and videographers in Central Florida. We are like a big family, and our couples can definitely feel the love and calmness on their wedding day. Weddings by Crown is literally a onestop shop for all of your wedding needs.
There are quite a few aspects of a wedding day! Can you touch on how Weddings by Crown can assist engaged couples in all of these facets?
Crystal: Let’s start with our wedding dress shop, Bridal by Crown, it’s located in the heart of historic downtown Plant City at 110 West Reynolds Street, Suite 107. Our boutique offers an elegant and premier wedding dress experience. We are a ready-to-wear boutique providing our brides the opportunity to find their dream dress for less than $1500 and take it home that same day. We understand that every bride is unique, which is why we collaborate closely with some of the world’s leading designers to curate an inventory that caters to every type of bride, venue, budget, age, and body type. Our passion is to create a dress-shopping experience that makes our brides feel beautiful.
Our wedding coordinating team has perfected over 500 unique weddings. Organization and attention to detail
are key. Our stress-free planning process guarantees that our couples’ dream wedding will be unforgettable and smooth! Our job is to take over on the wedding day to ensure that all details are planned and executed. As the big day approaches, we construct a detailed wedding day timeline, confirm and manage all wedding vendors, and become their point of contact. We will monitor and set up the wedding details, organize the bridal party and family for the ceremony as well as do damage control for anything that might come up on the day of the wedding. Think of our coordinating team as our couples’ own personal wedding day ninja! Our main goal is to make sure that our couples feel like actual guests at their own wedding!
Cliff: I fell in love with photography and video about 10 years ago. Like music it gave me the freedom to express myself in creative ways. I literally have poured my life into it and now have the amazing opportunity to travel
Weddings by Crown offers coordinating, DJ services, videography and photography. Cliff Brown says the company’s photography style is timeless and trendy, capturing true emotions as it unfolds.
the country every month and shoot editorials for large corporations and resorts such as Marriott, as well as the fashion industry, James Beard-winning restaurants, and many others. As fun as that is, we love capturing our couples wedding day the most.
Our photography and videography team creates storytelling art. We describe our style as timeless and trendy. We can step in and assist with posing as needed but we prefer a journalistic approach, capturing true emotions as they unfold. We offer multiple packages so couples can customize their wants and needs. A portfolio of our work can be viewed on weddingsbycrown.com
With our DJ service, we employ award-winning emcees specializing in every type of music, so we can deliver
“We honestly just want our couples to feel that planning their wedding is stress-free and enjoyable. We want them to feel loved and taken care of.”
whatever vibe our couples want for the dance floor. Your DJ can literally make or break your wedding and the last thing anyone wants is a cheesy personality on the microphone all night. Our team has been meticulously picked and vetted. They are able to keep grandma on the dance floor but are also current on what’s hot right now as many of our team DJ’s weekly at the top venues in Tampa and beyond. We also can deliver full production needs like uplighting, dancing on a cloud, photo booths, monograms, cold sparks for a grand entrance, and so much more.
How does the team at Weddings by Crown make each couple feel special on their big day?
Cliff: I always compare a wedding day to a movie. You want it to flow easily and for each transition to be beautiful and flawless while crescendoing to an amazing
Weddings by Crown employs award-winning emcees specializing in every type of music, so the DJ can deliver whatever vibe couples want for the dance floor. Additionally, the company can provide full production needs like uplighting, dancing on a cloud, photo booths, monograms, cold sparks for a grand entrance, and so much more.
ending. Our teams are communicating with each other leading up to the big day rather than arriving on-site and trying to sort out the details with vendors you have never worked with. We have created a seamless system as an allin-one wedding company making it so much easier for all of the aspects of the wedding to run smoothly.
Crystal: We honestly just want our couples to feel that planning their wedding is stress-free and enjoyable. We want them to feel loved and taken care of. We make it our mission to help plan their dream wedding and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
What tips do you have for soon-to-be newlyweds?
Crystal: Once you find your wedding venue and lock in your date, the next step is to hire a wedding coordinator. A great coordinator will help you find the best vendors to meet your needs such as florists, catering, hair and make-up, etc. Weddings by Crown works with some of the best vendors
in the industry. From the moment you hire us we meet and start creating your wedding visions come to life.
Cliff: To start the process with us and schedule a phone consultation. Contact us on our website via a submission for at www.weddingsbycrown.com
Weddings by Crown is one of the only all-in-one wedding companies in Plant City. How does it feel to see the wedding industry growing in our local community?
Crystal: We love being local and seeing our community and the wedding industry grow here in Plant City. More and more people are moving to Plant City and falling in love with our town. Many people visit our dress shop from all over the state and get to experience first hand the charm and grace of downtown Plant City. We are honored to represent our community and to play a part in the biggest day of our couples lives.
“David tells me I changed his life, but he also changed mine,” said Hayley Milks.
In 2019, while living in Miami, Hayley donated her kidney to David Montoto. When she woke from surgery, she met David’s brother, William. William wanted to thank Hayley for her selflessness in saving his brother’s life. The two instantly connected, engrossed in conversation about anything and everything, including being single parents and their former relationships.
“Everything else faded away, and it was like we were the only people in the room,” said William Montoto.
After recovery, the couple began spending more time together. William’s job at the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne was furloughed when the coronavirus began impacting Florida. He took a job at Publix, then UPS, before being hired by FedEx in Tampa Bay. Hayley and her daughters joined him, and she began making handmade jewelry. She sold her creations at local markets under the brand name Beadnikrow.
William quit his job and began managing the back end of Hayley’s business. Soon, he started his brand, Cocomo’s, selling all-nature beverages at markets. The couple decided to join forces under the name CocoRow, selling her boho-inspired jewelry and his fruit smoothies and acai bowls under one roof. CocoRow is located on Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard, adjacent to Catnip Cafe and Adoption Lounge, open from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
William’s signature drink is Pink Pineapple Drink; the sweet and juicy fruit is blended and served in its own rind for a tropical experience. Customers can also order Berry Mixtape, Wango Mango, and Peach On Earth, among others. All drinks are made to order with fresh, whole fruit and coconut water. Build
Your Own Acai Bowls are also available with several toppings, including fresh fruit, granola, and coconut flakes. Smoothies, coconut drinks, and acai bowls are available through Uber Eats until 11:30 p.m. This gives Plant Citians a healthy option when most other businesses are closed. A full menu can be found online at cocorowpc.com
Ready-to-purchase jewelry pieces are on display in-store; Hayley says each piece is one-of-a-kind and made by her hands.
“Each piece is one of one; it’s never made again,” said Hayley.
Hayley also creates custom necklaces, earrings, and bracelets at her customers’ request. She offers a charm bar, and customers can pick their charms and share their vision with Hayley. Throughout the process, she’ll send progress pictures and make changes. She says that through this process, the client has their hand in creating unique jewelry.
The couple is passionate about their small business and opening shop in a small town, compared to their former home of Miami. William says it’s all about growing as a person.
“I’ve learned to be patient with myself,” said William. “I don’t know everything, but I’m always eager to learn, evolve, and grow. I just want people who come to CocoRow to have a good experience.”
For Hayley, it’s about chasing dreams.
“When people say you can’t make art for a living, it’s not true,” said Hayley. “When we were doing markets, kids came into my booth and would say, ‘I just make friendship bracelets,’ I would tell them, ‘Good, keep making bracelets.’ If you’re good at your craft, you can make it. My life changed because I donated a kidney, but now I am living a dream.”
(305) 833-7483
cocorowpc.com
THE McAULEY TEAM HAS CREATED CUSTOM PIECES FOR GENERATIONS OF FAMILIES IN OUR LOCAL AREA
Direct Primary Care
Medical Weight Loss
TeleHealth
IV Therapy
Hormone Therapy / Testostone
Replacement Therapy
Lab Work
Virtue RF Microneedling
Tetra CoolPeel
Botox Injections
Medical Grade Skin Care
Decrease the look of fine lines and wrinkles with Botox injections
Arising 7th grader at Tomlin Middle School, Cooper Newman is the picture of an all-American boy. Newman plays baseball with the Plant City OutKasts, a travel ball team coached by his father, Donnie Newman. When he isn’t on the diamond, he loves to hunt, fish, and play Fortnite. He is also active in his school’s FFA chapter and enjoys having the opportunity to show pigs at the Strawberry Festival each year.
Playing on the OutKasts has been a wonderful opportunity for Cooper and his teammates to forge a family-like bond while working to improve on the field.
“This is not just a baseball team,” shared Cooper’s mom, Jamie Newman. “It’s a childhood made of dreams. The way these kids are with each other is amazing.”
The team was started two years ago, in part to give the players an opportunity to play in the 12U Tournament in Cooperstown, New York, which they will do at the end of June.
Cooper is a versatile player, utilizing his skills at 2nd base, in right field, and as a catcher and a pitcher.
“I like to play baseball because it’s fun,” Cooper remarked. “I get to play with all my friends, and it has taught me that teamwork is key.”
Though he is still at the start of his career, Cooper has high hopes of playing baseball all the way through high school, into college, and possibly even in the MLB.
your confidence for the big day.
Look and feel like the best version of you this wedding season with Elevate Medical Spa: Plant City’s destination for facials, laser, filler, and Botox.
Schedule a complimentary consultation to receive a personalized treatment plan.
Regular facials ensure your skin is radiant and photo-ready. Our estheticians are ready to guide you to the skin of your dreams with their expertise in Hydrafacial, chemical peels, microneedling, and custom skin regimens.
l a s e r
Our top-of-the-line BBL and MOXI laser tackle redness, pigmentation, texture, and more with minimal downtime. Combining these modalities gives your skin an airbrushed finish.
Turn back the clock and reveal the most refreshed version of you. Our injectors specialize in natural-looking Botox and filler results, so your true beauty can shine.
2806 James L Redman Pkwy Plant City, FL 33566
(Located in the Village Plaza)
813.944.0060 | elevatetpa.com |
@elevatemedicalspa
At Hardeman's Secret Gardens, we believe in turning moments into memories, and we've crafted a space that reflects this philosophy in every detail. Nestled in the heart of Dover, FL, our exquisite wedding venue is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by those seeking a truly magical setting for their special occasions In summary, Hardeman's Secret Garden is a masterpiece of luxury, redefining upscale weddings with timeless beauty and unmatched quality
Named after one of their coach’s favorite Dave Matthews songs, the Tripping Billies are blazing new trails as Plant City’s only 8U travel softball team. Head Coach Mike Valerius brings over 20 years of experience to the dugout, as well as a commitment to developing the players in a balanced way so that they can excel competitively while also learning from their mistakes and approaching the game with realistic expectations.
“I wanted to make sure that my team was focused on developing players and not just making an All-Star team from all the best players around,” Valerius shared. “We’ve developed from the ground up and now have players coming from Plant City, Zephyrhills, and Lakeland.”
Valerius leads the team with an experienced coaching staff that includes Infield and 3rd Base Coach Joshua Royse, Pitching Coach Michael Crabb, and Outfield Coach Steve Locklear. Together,
they work to instill in the girls a competitive mindset that prioritizes work ethic and focus while stressing that they aren’t looking for perfection.
“We work to get across to these girls that it’s okay to fail; it’s okay to make a mistake,” explained Valerius. It’s all about how you get the next one, or what you are going to do now that that plays over, and what you are going to do now to help your team.”
Valerius also prioritizes allowing each player to participate in every game. No player sits two consecutive innings, and all players are in the batting lineup.
“It’s about experience and getting to play on the team,” remarked Valerius. “No game is so important that I will not let every kid have an opportunity to play at some point during the game.”
He continued, “It’s my job as a head coach to ensure these girls are prepared to succeed when the opportunity comes.”
Though many travel teams present a significant financial burden to participating families, Valerius has made it a priority to keep costs as low as possible for the Billies. Families share costs for tournaments, but gear such as helmets, cleats, jerseys, gloves, and bats are all provided, in part by fundraisers and in part through the generosity of their head coach.
Practices are held at Bethany Baptist Church, where pastor Marc Mashburn has rolled out the welcome mat and dealt very generously with the team. The Billies are allowed to make use of an old little league field that is now maintained by Valerius and is sporting freshly clipped grass and new bases.
As a new organization, there is plenty of room for the Billies to grow. If you’d like more information about the team, you can contact Mike Valerius at 813-260-6159 or email flatrippingbillies@gmail.com.
R&C Candy Creations is a local small business specializing in freeze-dried candy. This family business, run by Danielle Smith, was initially the brainchild of her girls, Rylee (13) and Chloe (11). The girls spotted the candy at an outdoor market and approached their mom with the idea of making it themselves.
“We started researching it and decided to buy the machine, offer it to friends and family, and see what happened,” shared Smith.
It went incredibly well. Once the first batch was made, Smith posted on her Facebook to offer it up for sale. The response was overwhelming. Initially, the family hoped to pay off their investment within the first year, but that goal was accomplished in just four short weeks.
“We’re just seeing where this takes us,” Smith remarked. “It was my kids’ idea, so all the profit goes straight to the girls,” she continued. “We’re seeing how it goes and what can become of it.”
Rylee and Chloe are an integral part of the business. They take charge when they set up shop at the local markets and are responsible for bagging the candy at home.
“It’s been kind of a learning curve for all of us,” Smith admitted. “The most important thing for me is that my girls know that if you have something that you want to pursue, you can go out and be successful as long as you put your heart and mind into it.”
The business continues to boom, and these candy creations now come in over thirty varieties, including Skittles, Saltwater Taffy, Fruit Roll Up “chips,” and even ice cream sandwiches.
The freeze-drying process takes four to five hours, during which time the machine removes all moisture from the candy, intensifying the flavor and leaving it with a soft crunch. An added bonus to freeze-drying is that sticky candies like Skittles and Starburst no longer stick to your teeth and can last several years if properly stored.
These sweet treats are offered online on all social media platforms, as well as at rccandycreations.com, and ship directly to your door. If you prefer shopping in person, the family also sets up at two to three local markets per month. Most recently, they participated at the Plant City Easter Egg Hunt and can next be found at the Swan Derby in Lakeland on April 26th.
“The most important thing for me is that my girls know that if you have something that you want to pursue, you can go out and be successful as long as you put your heart and mind into it.”
Joe Giuntas thought he’d just sit back and relax after retiring in 2006 from his last pastorate in Pennsylvania, but God had other plans. For the last 17 years, he and Esther, his wife of 59 years, have served on staff with Mission To Haiti. They’ve witnessed many miracles through their trips to help the Haitian people (even in the great 2010 earthquake). Although the difficult conditions are now increasingly dangerous, they’re confident that if God sends them, He will protect them and see His will accomplished. Today, the First Assembly of God in Plant City is their home church.
Describe a little of your journey to faith.
Joe: “I grew up as the sixth of nine children in a very religious family in the Catholic country of Italy. Two older brothers died before I was born. After his second son died, Dad didn’t want to know anything about God. When I was seven, An American missionary visited our hometown, and my family was saved and filled with the Holy Spirit. At age sixteen, I was baptized in water and committed my life to Jesus. By age 19, I emigrated to work in Germany and send money home to my family. With friends there, I began to live a worldly life, but by age 20, I realized I wasn’t following Jesus. So, I moved and began attending an Italian church in northern Germany, where I met Esther’s missionary brother-inlaw. After a near-death experience, I rededicated my life to the Lord and began participating in mission work. With a refocused life, God began to open doors for growth, and the Lord provided me with a wife. I’ll never forget her answer when I proposed marriage: ‘I need to pray.’ Six months later, after waiting, praying, and fasting, her answer was ‘Yes.’ I thank God for her patience in helping me learn English so I could complete Bible school homework from the taped lessons.”
Esther: “Jesus has been in my life forever. My father was a pastor, so I grew up in church. Active in Youth for Christ, I sang in a few trios and had wonderful ministry experiences in many Florida churches’ dinner-on-the-grounds gatherings. My two sisters’ husbands were also pastors/missionaries. At age 20, I went to Germany to help my sister and brother-in-law in their ministry to Italian immigrants. There I met and married Joe. Three years later, we attended
Northeast Bible Institute in Pennsylvania. After pastoring our first church in Reading, Pennsylvania, we moved to Miami to help my father’s church until Dad passed away. Joe took over as pastor, and we ministered 24 years in different churches in the Miami area.”
Your children are also serving Christ, correct?
Esther: “Yes, God blessed us with three children who serve the Lord with their gifts. Michele is a pianist at Victory Church South in Lakeland and works on staff as a graphic designer. Stephen is a professional saxophonist who was a music pastor and now serves as a pioneer pastor in Pennsylvania. Our daughter Gina is a schoolteacher who loves directing young people to Christ. We also love spending time with our seven grandchildren, one of whom I’m homeschooling this year.”
“From what we’ve witnessed in our journey with God, we would say: ‘Keep yourself pure before the Lord because we are in the last days. Never turn back. Remember: Repentance means leaving the world’s ways and, with God’s help, becoming established in a new life. Remain focused on Jesus and the price He paid to be your Savior. Ask God to lead and then go where He leads. Jeremiah 29:13 says: ‘Seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.’
Our prayer will always be: ‘As you grow in Christ, may His peace and joy follow you FOREVER.’”
Iwas scrolling through Facebook the other day, when a funny little ditty popped up. It invited: TAKE THE “OLDER THAN DIRT” QUIZ! Do you remember these?
1. BlackJack Chewing Gum
2. Wax Coke-shaped bottles with colored sugar water
3. Butch Wax
4. Candy Cigarettes
5. Wax Lips
6. Soda machines with glass bottles
7. Party line telephones
8. 45-RPM records
9. PF Flyers
10. Carrying a metal lunch box to school
11. Roller skate keys
12. The Andy Griffith Show
13. S & H Green Stamps
14. Blue flashbulbs
15. Drive-In movie gheaters
If you remember:
0-5: You are a “Whipper Snapper”
6-10: You are “Getting There”
10 or more: “YOU ARE OLDER THAN DIRT!”
Well, I guess at the ripe old age of 61, I am now: “OLDER THAN DIRT.” Ha Ha Ha! That little quiz made me stop and think back about everything listed. Each and every item was pretty much a part of everyday modern day life when I was a kid.
As I continued scrolling down, up came a photo of three kids standing on the street corner wearing horn-rimmed glasses, penny loafers, and Bermuda shorts. Stacked around their feet were cartons of empty Coke and Pepsi bottles. The caption read: “HAVE YOU EVER RETURNED BOTTLES FOR CASH?” Well, the happy memories of those days just flooded into my mind.
I had forgotten about turning empty soda bottles in for money $$$. How much fun was that? I remember asking Mother to take my sister Karen and I down to the SPEEDEE Shop on Park Street for some candy or a treat. If I had not been especially good or if I had not done well on my last report card, Mother would say: “As long as you have some allowance money left.” Well, chances were usually that I had NO money left. I would have already run through my $2.00 allowance and would be pretty much in the state of begging for more or offering to do more chores or asking Mother to “Just write a check,” to which she would reply: “Go to the garage and check for empty bottles.” That’s all it took for Karen and I to make a mad dash out to the garage and collect all the empties we could find -- even the ones covered in spider webs.
It wouldn’t take more than five minutes to put our shoes on and load the back seat of Mother’s 1968 Pontiac Catalina floorboard with our “lucky find” and off we went. My sister and I would exit the car with our armloads of empty glass bottles and straight to the counter we went. We would hold up our bottles and the female cashier would ring up our find and then direct us to the empty grocery buggy beside the store’s front door. There we would carefully unload our bottles and race back to the counter, holding our hands out for our shiny new coins. I remember we would get 3-cents for a small bottle, 5-cents for a bigger one, and 3 cents if you had the paper carton that originally held the bottles. We would usually end up with about 50 cents between us and we felt like we had hit the Jackpot! We probably spent 15 minutes in the store trying to choose what to buy. Well, let’s see, for a dime you could get a Coca-Cola or a 7-UP, an RC Cola, Wink, or Jamaica Cola, or an Orange or Grape Soda. So many choices!
You could venture over to the Comic Book stand and choose from: The Archies, Sebrina the Teenage Witch, Richie Rich, Little Lotta, Batman, Superman, Hulk, Spiderman, Thor, Captain Marvel, The Giant Manthing, Captain America, Creatures on the Loose, Howard the Duck, The Haunt of Horror, Dark Shadows, and on and on, that is if you wanted to spend a whole 15 cents.
Now if we went straight for the candy, which was known as “Penny Candy,” we would go to the cashier for a little brown paper bag. We would go up and down the candy aisle and back and forth, trying to figure out what we wanted. Back then you could pretty much fill that little brown bag with a quarter’s worth of candy. I remember there would be Bazooka and Double Bubble Bubble Gum, Zots, Atomic FireBalls, Lemon Heads, Boston Baked Beans, Charms Lollipops, Jaw Busters, Jujubes, Necco Wafers, Jolly Ranchers, Now & Laters, Pixy Stix, Red Hots, SweeTarts, Sugar Daddys, Teaberry gum, Wax Lips, Bottle Caps, Brach’s Royals, Life Savers, Whistle Pops, Tootsie Rolls and Pop Drops, Jaw Breakers, Milk Duds, Pom Poms, Junior Mints, Goobers, Raisinets, Kits, Candy Cigarettes, Sixlets, Chico Sticks, Smarties, Turkish Taffy, Chicklets, Mallo Cups, Bit-OHoney, MaryJanes, Peppermint Patties, candy cigars, candy necklaces and rings and on and on. My favorites were the rolls of Smarties that would have a fake plastic finger or toy ring on the end and the orange Wow Wee Whistles that were wax wrapped in plastic with images of black witches flying on broomsticks. We would play them like a Harmonica for a few minutes then we could not resist taking a big bite of that juicy orange wax. Oh! that was so sweet and yummy! Karen and I would chew that orange
wax until our jaws could not take it anymore! HaHa!
What a wonderful memory that was! To be a kid turned loose in the Speedee Shop with what seemed like a pocket full of money. I thought it would be fun to post the picture of those kids in the horn-rimmed glasses with the empty soda bottles on my Facebook page just to see what kids from my day would have to say. Here’s what I got:
• Mike Witchoskey: I remember the Speedee Shop.
• Terri Turner Griffin: I still call convenience stores the Speedee Shop.
• Christine Haney: Yes, I turned in my bottles at the Apex Store.
• Randy Jones: The Shop and Go at Hwy 60 & Turkey Creek Road. The Good old days!
• Neil Roberts: I turned in my bottles at the old Dover Bi-Lo for another soda and candy.
• Beverly McGriff Jordan: We use to ride our bikes down to the store and buy candy or an Icee with the money.
• Nicole Norris: I got gas money for my bottles.
• Debbie Johnson Torres: Those empty bottles paid for lots of candy from the Lil’ General Store.
• Marci Rogers Drawdy: Growing up we lived next to the Dover Bi-Lo. I have pushed many a buggy full of bottles. Cash for Candy!
• Jeff Capron: I rode my Schwinn Scrambler thru Walden Lake when it was first being built. I put a 5-gallon bucket on each handle bar and scored riches around the new homes being built. Mountain Dew and Mellow Yellow bottles were left everywhere by the construction workers.
• Tracey Harkala Adams: Me and Teri McElveen rode our bikes to the store and got penny candy.
• Sharon Everidge: Yes, I rode my yellow Schwinn 10-speed with my bottles.
• Carolyn Everidge: Yes!
Reading everyone’s responses made me laugh and realize how simple were our childhoods. We were all pretty much on the same page. Back in those days, our bicycles and a little brown paper sack filled with “penny candy” from the convenience store made us pretty darn happy. In fact-we thought that we had it all! On second thought, we really did!
April 20
3:00PM
Vendors and DJ John Paul Gasca take over downtown in this monthly car show. From classic cars to pick ups, take part in this Plant City tradition.
McCall Park @ 100 N Collins Street
Cost: Free Info: (813) 754-3707
11:00AM
The new South Florida Baptist Hospital is opening soon. Take a 30-minute self-guided tour of the new hospital and learn about new features and improvements to several departments.
SFBH @ 3202 North Park Road
Cost: Free Info: (813) 757-1200
April 26
Last Friday in Downtown
5:00PM
Whether you’re a fan of the USS Enterprise or the Death Star, this “Galaxy Wars” event welcomes all to enjoy food trucks and vendors.
McCall Park @ 100 North Collins Street
Cost: Free
Info: plantcitymainstreet.org
April 26, 27, 28 & May 3, 4, 5
Fridays & Saturdays @ 8PM; Sundays @ 2PM
Directed by Jonathan B. Douglas, Nunsense is a musical comedy about five nuns who stage a fundraiser to bury their five dead sisters. The sisters are survivers of food poisoning that took the lives of 52 sisters.
Plant City Playhouse @ 101 N Thomas Street
Cost: $16 to $23
Info: plantcityentertainment.com
April 27
7:00PM
Lyric-driven songs, foot-stomping energy and heartwarming melodies define Remedy Tree, a band focused on original music blending bluegrass, folk, and old time music.
Krazy Kup @ 101 East J Arden Mays Boulevard
Cost: $20
Info: (813) 752-1220
May 6, 13, & 20
Teen Art Night
5:30PM
Stop by the library for a night to chill and make art! Supplies are provided along with lofi beats and snacks to accompany your art-making process. For ages 13-17.
Bruton Memorial Library @ 302 McLendon Street
Cost: Free Info: (813) 757-9215
Committed to Plant City.
Committed to Plant City.
Staffed with bankers who have deep roots in the Plant City area, our bank’s focus for the past 40 years has been to serve owner-managed businesses, professional firms, and families that want a strong, local connection with their bank and banker. Come grow with us.
Staffed with bankers who have deep roots in the Plant City area, our bank’s focus for the past 40 years has been to serve owner-managed businesses, professional firms, and families that want a strong, local connection with their bank and banker. Come grow with us.
813.707.6506
813.707.6506
thebankoftampa.com
thebankoftampa.com
That’s the BayCare effect. Where medical expertise meets timeless compassion.
When medical excellence is combined with empathy, it produces powerful results. It means never having to compromise on compassionate care. At BayCare’s new South Florida Baptist Hospital, located at 3202 North Park Road in Plant City, you can expect clinical expertise, combined with the use of advanced technologies, delivered by a team that treats you like family—it’s all right here.
■ Private inpatient and observation rooms: 146
■ Intensive care unit beds: 26
■ Emergency Department and Fast Track beds: 32
■ Interventional and cardiac catheterization suites: 3
■ Operating rooms: 8
■ A new Medical Arts Building that includes outpatient imaging and lab services
■ Expanded labor and delivery rooms, a mom and baby unit and a dedicated C-section surgery room
To learn more: NewSouthFloridaBaptist.org
