FOCUS Plant City 09-09 by Floyd Publications

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

LIFE • HOME • CAR • BUSINESS We are independent agents proudly representing Auto-Owners Insurance. N. LOGO Alexander Street, AGENCY NAME 414 OR HERE Plant City, FL 33563 UP TO TWO LINES LONG 813-754-3561

Town Name • 555 www.fl 555-1234 • website oridainsurancecenter.com We believe there is something to be said for handling claims quickly, and being straightforward…for showing empathy… for returning phone calls and being proactive. Because its not really about the house, its about the family that lives there.

We are independent agents proudly Thank you for rating Auto-Owners Insurance representing Auto-Owners Insurance. “Highest in Customer Satisfaction with AGENCY NAME the Auto Insurance ClaimsHERE Experience, UP TO TWO LONG Two YearsLINES in a Row”

Town Name • 555 555-1234

Call us or stop in to learn how you can save by insuring your life, home, and auto with Auto- Owners Insurance Company. As an independent agency, we can design an insurance program that is just right for you and your family.

12487 (11-09)

Ask us about our award recognized service!

Auto- Owners Insurance ranks highest among auto insurance providers in the J.D. Power and Associates 2008-2009 Auto Claims Studies. SM Study based on 11,616 total responses, ranking 25 insurance providers. Excludes those with claims only for glass/windshield, theft/stolen, roadside assistance or bodily injury claims. from auto insurance. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed June 2008 - June 2009. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com.

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

table of contents

september 2010 volume 9 issue 9

Publisher Mike Floyd Office Manager Dede Floyd Copy Editor Lynne Warren advertising director Brent Simmons

Family of Community Magazines

Sales Sophia Hyde Sheryl Vitelli Holly Far mer Production Anthony Sassano Tony Cartagena Joel Cook FOCUSTV Brandon Hyde Kelleigh Klein

ontheCOVER

Distribution Doug McGee Belva DeVane

victoria VO & Dr. John Kilgore, MD

Photographers Suzanne Gallagher Billy Friend Lori Blaser Stephanie Humphrey

photo by suzanne gallagher photography

14 FOCUS Plant City Lakeland Brandon Winter Haven Lake County South Tampa

FOCUSTV

MYFOCUSTV.COM Local Community Stories New Episode Every Wednesday

Own Your Own FOcus Magazine

Licensed territories are available. If you are interested in owning your own Focus Magazine call Mike Floyd at 813-707-8783 ext. 26

LOCAL

Plant City is filled with exciting events and interesting people. Read about the first Saturday monthly Bike Fest and New Teacher Breakfast – both long-standing traditions here. Local hunter Lisa Brown Fox has just returned from an African safari and Boy Scout Troop 14 members completed merit badge work involving “hot rods.” Truth Christian Store recently featured six authors at a book signing and writers’ workshop and Burney Elementary received a $5,000 grant from Dart Container Corporation. It’s good news galore in our town.

SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW

Ku’Tur Nail Lounge and Salon is a one-stop-shop for spa services, non-invasive cosmetic treatments, and wellness services. Soon, Ku’Tur will complete its goal of becoming a full service beauty salon, too. Dr. John Kilgore of MedMax has recently joined Ku’Tur owner Victoria Vo to enhance the fitness levels of clients who already use the salon services. Stop in soon to see how health and beauty combine to change lives in Plant City.

feature - business focus

When folks in Plant City need a supplier, they search Focus first. This month you’ll find help from Crystal Clear Pools of Florida, Felton’s Meat and Produce, HealthPoint Medical Group, Souther Chiropractic, Helicon Foundation Repair, Kazbor’s Grille, Mid-Florida Dermatology Group, and O’Neal & Sons Upholstery share the highlights of their businesses. Focus encourages readers to shop local, of course.

Staff Writers Cheryl Johnston Brian West Joe Bowles Derek Maul Kelleigh Klein Heather Davis Laura Estes Dan Conrod Kristi Linbaugh Heather Davis Ken Lawrence Megan Braglin Brittany Cer ny contributors Al Ruechel Bruce Rodwell Gil Gott Jo-An Lusk Nate Davis Editorial Interns Raven Leverett

standards of accuracy The goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-war ming 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 infor m 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. Readers who wish to respond to an article – not correct facts – can do so by writing a letter to the editor. If you need any other type of assistance, then please view the directory for the appropriate department. The staff at FOCUS Magazine is committed to serving their consumers and customers to the fullest of abilities. You’re paying attention to our words. Let us pay attention to yours.

FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants and many local venues. Letters, Questions and Comments can be sent to us at editorial@floydpublications.com.

dining profile

Asian Chen Restaurant is receiving raves for its variety and the fresh flavors of first class Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese specialties. Local diners are raving about the great prices, too. Don’t miss this new found treasure and its friendly owners.

12 - Talk of the Town 34 - Did You Know? 36 - Plant City Chamber of Commerce

72 - Home Guide 84 - Athlete Of The Month 90 - Al Reuchel 93 - Derek Maul

96 - Auto Review 99 - Dining Guide 106 - Event Calendar 108 - Just For Fun

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.

published by:

floyd publications, Inc.

101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563 Phone 813.707.8783 • Fax 813.764.0990

Your Smile

The most attractive thing you can put on.

Dr. Derek M. Busciglio Dr. John A. Busciglio

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NEW LOCATION

TWO LOCATIONS TO BETTER SERVE YOU!

623Brandon East Alexander Street • 813.759.9474

515 Corner Street, Brandon 813-681-9473

at Alexander Crossings Plaza We are located in the Lake Brandon Professional Park at 1165 Nikki View Drive. The professional park is near the intersection of South Causeway Blvd. and South Gornto Lake Rd. (next to Kohl's Department Store).

Plant City Dental Specialty - 623 East Alexander Street, Plant City, FL

Lake Brandon Professional Park

LUMSDEN RD.

KINGS AVE.

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PROVIDENCE RD.

S. GORTO LAKE RD.

From Cross-Town Expressway: Enter Brandon (East) exit to Falkenburg Road exit. Exit Falkenburg Road and turn right onto Falkenburg Rd. Left turn onto Causeway Blvd. Right turn onto S. Gornto Lake Rd. Right turn into Lake Brandon Professional Park. Immediate left turn onto Professional Park Drive. Right turn onto Nikki View Drive. Our office building will be on your left.

U.S. HWY. 301

From Tampa (north): Take 1-75 (South) to Riverview/301 N. Exit (#254). North on US Hwy 301 to Causeway Blvd. Right turn (East) onto Causeway Blvd. Right turn onto S. Gornto Lake Rd. Right N turn into Lake Brandon Professional Park. Immediate left turn BRANDON BLVD. (HWY. 60) onto Professional Park Drive. Right turn onto Nikki View Drive. Our office building will be on your left.

Plastic, Maxillofacial Reconstructive Surgery

From riverview: North on US Hwy 301 to Causeway Blvd. East on Causeway Blvd. Right turn on S. Gornto Lake Road. Right turn into Lake Brandon Professional Park. Immediate left turn onto Professional Park Drive. Right turn onto Nikki View Drive. Our office building will be on your left.

Jack A. Davidson, DDS, MD, PLLC

Cosmetic Facial Surgery

Sedation Available

The American Dental Association N

The American Medical Association 92

W. TRAPNELL RD

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The American College of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons JAMES L REDMAM PKWY

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American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons

R ST.

KE E. BA

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The Florida Society of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons The American Society of Dental Anesthesiologists The Florida Dental Society of Anesthesiology

Brandon Location: From Hwy 60: Head west on Hwy 60 towards Clarence Gordon 1165 Jr.Nikki View Drive Road, turn right at Hwy 39/James L. Redman Parkway, turn right at East Alexander Our office will be on the right. Brandon, FLStreet. 33511

Facial Trauma Repair

Board Certified in Plastic, Maxillofacial & Reconstructive Surgery

PLanT CiTy

toward Connell Rd, take the 1st right onto Holloway Rd, turn left at Hwy 39 N/James L. Redman Pkwy, turn right at E. Alexander Street. Our office will be on the right.

Oral Cancer Screening/Biopsy

MEMBERSHIPS INCLUDE:

TWO LOCATIONS TO BETTER SERVE YOU

From Turkey Creek road: Head north on Turkey Creek Rd www.davidsonsurgery.com

Dental Implants / Bone Replacement Corrective Jaw Surgery

1165 Nikki View Drive

From East Brandon (Hwy 60): Head west on Brandon BLOOMINDALE AVE. Blvd/Hwy 60 towards Tampa. Left turn on Kings Ave. Take Kings Ave. south to Lumsden Rd. Right turn (West) on Lumsden S Rd. Left turn (South) on Gornto Lake Rd. Right turn into Lake Brandon Professional Park. Immediate Left turn onto Professional Park Drive. Right turn onto Nikki View Drive. Our office building will be on your left.

From West Baker Street: Head southeast on W. Baker St 623 East Alexander St., Plant City, FL toward N. Mobley St., continue to follow N. Alexander Street. Our office will be on right. (just north ofthe Wal-Mart) From East Baker Street: Head west on E. Baker Street/Hwy Phone 60/US #: (813) 92W towards N.571-1516 Wilder Rd, take the 1st left onto Park Rd, continue Jim Johnson Rd. Our office will be on the right. Specialty: Oral &ontoMaxillofacial Surgery

Wisdom teeth / Other extractions

From County Line road: Head south on County Line Rd towards Medulla Rd, take the 1st right onto Medulla Rd, turn right at Co Rd 574/Coronet Rd, turn left at Roberts Ranch Rd., turn left at Jim Johnson Rd, take the 1st right onto E. Alexander St, make U-turn. Our office will be on the right.

Board Certified in Dental Anesthesiology foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

letter from the publisher

Visit our web site: www.feltonsmarket.com

MEATS

PRODUCE

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SPECIALIZING IN SPECIAL CUTS OF MEAT

Low cholesterol items: Smoked Turkey Wings Smoked Turkey Necks Fresh Turkey Tails & Gizzards Smoked Turkey Tails Fresh Goat Fresh Mullet/Catfish/Perch Fresh Dressed, Grade A, Premium, Ice-Packed Poultry Leg Quarters 40-lb. box Fresh IBP Small and Med. Spare Ribs Fresh IBP Lite Spare Ribs “Great for Barbecuing” Fajitas by the package or the box

No Order Too Big Or Too Small Largest Spice Selection In Town One Stop Shopping for all your large parties, family reunions and church events

SPECIAL SERVICES AVAILABLE INCLUDE: Western Union, Money Orders and Wiring Sevices Plantains, Green Bananas (by the box or lb.) Fresh Local Produce Daily Fresh Greens Available Daily

GROCERY Paradise Fruit in 5-lb. box (available All Year Round)

WIDE SELECTION OF: #10 Can And Gallon Size Items Martin’s Potato Bread Entenmann’s Bakery products Goya • Lisy • La Costena • San Marco’s and La Dona Tortillas

t’s common knowledge that January is the busy season for the health and fitness industry. Every year the number two and three top New Year’s resolutions are to get in shape and lose weight, which in my opinion are often times one in the same. But as we all know, by Valentine’s Day the newness has worn off and most of us return to our regular habits. In case you were wondering, the number one resolution in America is to quit smoking. Every time that I have spoken with someone who has achieved his or her weight loss or fitness goal, or who has successfully quit smoking, it rarely began on January 1. Almost always I hear, “one day I just woke up and decided I needed to change.” It’s like we all have an internal light bulb, and there is no formula that can turn it on. Take my wife for example. Like most women, she has wanted to get back in shape after having our two children. For years we’ve both had excuse after excuse as to why we don’t eat healthy or get enough exercise. To be frank, I know for me it comes down to convenience and that I enjoy good food too much. Several times we both would go on week long health kicks, sign up at new gyms, hire a personal trainer, try the trendy diet, etc. All of sudden, back in March the light bulb turned on for DeDe. She started seeing a professional weight loss doctor, eating healthy and exercising. Over the last six months, it’s been an amazing change. She’s dropped five dress sizes and still counting. Just from the outside looking in I can see that she’s happier, more self-confident and has more energy. And it wasn’t a new years resolution that did it, or a motivational speech she heard or even a new program. More than anything, it was that she made the decision she wanted to and she worked hard to stick to her commitment. Unfortunately, I’m still waiting for my light bulb to turn on. You would think that watching her success would inspire me, but I still haven’t kicked it in gear. This month in our spotlight, Dr. John Kilgore of Ku’tur Medi Spa talks about the obesity problem in America. What surprised me most was when he said that he recently read a book that said the epidemic has breached into China and India as well. There’s an infinite amount of reasons why it’s important for us to be taking care of our selves. Check out the interview with Victoria Vo and Dr. Kilgore to learn more about what this local Plant City business is doing to help people look and feel their best.

Walker Plaza, 617 N Maryland Ave. Plant City, FL 33563 ATM Available at Customer Service TECO Payments Accepted

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Mike Floyd Publisher

ok o L w e N a Bringing Style to an Old

PLANT CITY LoCATIoN Plant City Crossings 2621 Thonotosassa Rd. • 752-6631

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ElEctricity is no hobby call: 813.737.9057 FINALLY! Two local guys than can take on your nagging electrical repairs and wire your new home or business at a reasonable price! “Richard and Donnie look forward to serving your electrical needs. With 75 years of combined experience we can make your home and business safer and leave you with confidence that the job is done correctly. Give us a call and let us show how we can ease your concerns about your electrical system.

As always $99 Palms (Any Size, Queen and Washingtonia)

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

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116 West Reynolds Street, Plant City

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

Local » talk of the town

plant city’s

talk town of the

Submit your TALK OF THE TOWN TO: editorial@floydpublications.com

fun with flowers The Plant City Garden Club will hold a “Fun with Flowers” workshop featuring a seasonal flower arrangement on Saturday October 16, 2010 from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. Location will be the Hope Lutheran Church 2001 N. Park Rd. Plant City. Certified instructor and judge from the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs, Bess Treadwell will be the instructor. Cost for the work shop will be $17.00 this includes your container, flowers and lunch. Reservations are a must as space is limited, please R.S.V.P. by sending a check to the Plant City Garden Club, inc.; P.O. Box 3471; Plant City, Fl 33566 no later than October 11, 2010. For more information contact Christy at 813-752-5874.

2010 General Election Candidate Forum

CF_Focus_FullPg:Focus Full Pg 9/7/10 3:35 PM Page 1

Emmarie Gaudet, 10, in the fifth grade at Walden Lake Elementary and Kyle Queenan, 14, in the ninth grade at Durant High School.

Plant City competes on World Level Meet two real karate kids from Plant City. Emmarie Gaudet, 10 and Kyle Queenan, 14. Both students from Chris Welbon Karate Clubs in Plant City will be in Venice, Italy on October 19–25 to compete for the title of Junior World Karate Champion. There are 30 juniors on the 2010 Junior World Team from the USA. Kyle and Emmarie were chosen because of their consistent wins at regional and national tournaments this year including the 2010 Junior Olympics.

The 2010 General Election Candidate Forum will be held on Saturday October 16th from 5:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. This is a free event designed to educate voters of Eastern Hillsborough County as well as introduce the Plant City faith community to the candidates running for Federal, State, and County races in the November 2nd election. All candidates, regardless of their party affiliation or political views, running for any public office on the national, state or local level in Eastern Hillsborough County have been invited to come and meet with the citizens that they wish to represent.

Members of the community have given their support to take two Plant City kids to world level competition. Sponsorships are still needed. You can reach Chris Welbon at 813-752-9800 or staff@chriswelbonkarate.com Or donate online at www.PlantCityKarate.com

ABWA 10 year anniversary

This month marks the 10 year anniversary for the ABWA Plant City Chapter! We would like to welcome any original members or past members to join us at this month’s meeting which will be held on 9/27/10 at the Plant City Carrabba’s from 11:30 to 1:00. Please contact Courtney Paat at 813-754-1725 to RSVP. We look forward to reconnecting with fellow members!

Check out current and past issues of FOCUS Magazine online at: www.myfocustv.com 12

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Lorraine Bennett receives monthly grand prize Lorraine Bennett receiving the monthly grand prize from Travel by Horizon, presented by Rhonda Hardee. This month’s prize was a 7-Day Carnival Caribbean Cruise. To register for next month’s prize, text “focus” to 32075 to sign up for the Focus Deals program. Next month’s prize will be a stay at the all-inclusive Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace resort!

Local » talk of the town

AND NOW

A MESSAGE FROM OUR

ART

DEPARTMENT

verizon presents checks to united food bank Bill Reid with Verizon recently presented the United Food Bank with two checks totaling $7,500. Twenty five hundred dollars will go towards sponsorship of the United Food Bank’s annual Celebrity Chef Dinner (scheduled for February 12, 2011) and $5,000 will be applied to the United Food Bank’s Last Resort Medical Program. The program provides emergency prescription funding to individuals who are unable to pay for much needed prescriptions.

READ THIS ISSUE OR VIEW PAST ISSUES OF FOCUS MAGAZINE ONLINE

Pictured: Dan Raulerson (Plant City Mayor and United Food Bank Board Member), David Miller (United Food Bank Board Chairman), Marsha Passmore (Hopewell Funeral Homes Community Affairs and United Food Bank Board Member), Bill Reid (Verizon), State Representative Rich Glorioso, Kelleigh Klein (UFB Executive Director) and Rick Bunnell (Albertsons Regional Director and United Food Bank Board Member).

angee huntey in bride magazine Congratulations to Plant City native Angee Huntley for making the cover of Florida Bride Magazine September issue. Angee has been modeling for the past four years and has been featured in many publications but this is her first magazine cover. Angee is married to Trevor Huntley and they have one daughter named Hannah.

MYFOCUSTV.COM

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

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Local » Focus Radical Randy said the event is family oriented, and welcome to all. “Bring your babies, grand-babies, parents. As you see, son,” he said to me, “we have all different ages here. It’s kind of cool.” Randy is also proud of the resilience of Bike Fest through the rough economy. “All of the other bike shows have come and gone- most of them lasted only six months. Bike Fest is the longest running, and is the first monthly show in the area. In eight years we’ve only cancelled three events from rain.” Bike Fest doesn’t run itself, though. “The vendors in the area really like this, but we need everyone’s support to keep this here. We’re always looking for sponsors. The economy has been hard on us too,” he said. “The Plant City Chamber of commerce is the biggest help in backing Bike Fest. Any merchants that would like to be a part of this are welcome to contact the Plant City Chamber of Commerce at 813-754-3707.”

Bike enthusiests came from all over Florida to admire These gorgeous Machines. Photo by Tony Cartagena

Bike Fest of Plant City Celebrating the Lifestyle S Written By: john ross

aturday, September 4th- Plant City hosted its monthly Bike Fest downtown at McCall Park outside of the local historic train station. Sponsored by the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, thousands of motorcyclists came to celebrate the lifestyle and to show off the beauty of their bikes.

Randy Akers, “Radical Randy” as he is affectionately known, is very proud of the tradition he helped start in Plant City eight years ago. A passionate Plant City resident who is proud of his hometown and its history, he and his wife Wendy were the first couple to be married in the train depot. They have been organizing the event since its beginning, and “appreciate the fact that our daughter Jessica has helped run it since age 11,” Randy said with a smile. “We started with 40 people. Everyone was hiding from us at the time... it was sort of funny,” Randy said. “The vendors around here are so excited for the business the show brings in,” he said, delving into how

Bike Fest helps stir Plant City’s economy. “Car shows are cool, but the owners bring their coolers and some food. Bikers bring their bikes... and money,” he said, visually referring around the event where the local restaurants and shops were packed. “Nine years ago there were almost no bikes in Plant City. Now, from Bike Fest, they are running up and down the street. If you look out there you’ll see these bikes are from counties all over- Hernando, Pasco, Hillsborough...” Dozens of vendors, mostly selling motorcycle training and gear were perched around the approximately 2,000 motorcycles on display, surrounded by thousands of attendees.

Deborah of Ridesafe Suncoast Motorcycle Training (www.ridesafenow.org) enjoyed the event. “Everyone is friendly here,” she said. Ridesafe teaches motorcycle safety in all of its respects. “Motorists are used to being conspicuous to motorcyclists,” she said, suggesting the opposite isn’t always true. The Basic Rider Course offers advanced awareness for motorcyclists.

Ron of the The United Service Organization (www.uso.org) thought it was “great that the town here supports events like this.” The USO is a private, nonprofit organization that provides morale and recreational services to members of the U.S. military with programs in 140 centers worldwide. “We take care of soldiers overseas and their families,” Ron said.

Randy wanted to thank many of those who have contributed to Bike Fest’s great success through the years. “The Plant City Police Department is such a blessing to us. No incidents or arrests. Everyone is respectful here.” He also is proud of the general attendance. “We have raised more money on this stage,” he said, pointing behind him, where the live music was playing, “than you would believe.” Recently they helped raise money for the families of officers Curtis and Kocab, the two fallen Tampa police officers who were killed on duty last June. Bike Fest is held in Plant City the first Saturday of every month. The annual Bike Fest event is the first Saturday of every October in Plant City.

Bikes lined up for judging.

Photo by Tony Cartagena foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

Local » Focus

Who Says You Can’t Wear High Heels Local girl returns from African Safari and Hunt? L Written By: Brian West

isa Brown Fox is the only child of Marvin and Linda Brown. But a pretty, petite 5’3” female isn’t the first sight that comes to mind when you think of an accomplished hunter. Fox likes to say, “I get the best of both worlds. I get to hunt with my dad and shop with my mom.” Fox was shooting guns when she was just a toddler. She was always a tomboy. When she was growing up on her family’s strawberry farm in Dover, she always looked forward to going down to the creek and throwing rocks at the water moccasins and maybe catch a frog or two. Her father has always been an avid hunter and he’d take her hunting with him. Since she was just 2 years old, she’s been shooting guns with her dad, hunting for deer, gigging frogs, fishing and shrimping. Eventually, she’d go with

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

him on his hunting trips and run the dogs, and manage to get in a little target practice while they were in the woods. She learned how to shoot from her dad. He’d string cans up in a tree and have her shoot them. Then in 2007, her dad went hunting in Colorado and killed an elk. Growing up, she’d always eaten the meat of the animals her dad killed, but when she got a taste of the elk, she was hooked. Fox said, “It was really good. It’s better than buffalo and it’s very lean.” Then she told her dad she was ready to go hunting. They booked their next trip to Colorado and Fox killed two elk. She has never looked back. Fox traveled to Africa in June with her family for a 21-day hunting safari. They stayed in an all-inclusive lodge on an

83,000 acre private reserve. Each day they’d eat breakfast first thing in the morning; hunt until about noon and come back to the lodge for lunch and a short rest. They’d go hunting again in the afternoon until dark. By the time they returned to the lodge for the evening after a full course dinner, everyone was spent.

They hunted with professional hunters, and they weren’t just out shooting anything that moved. The professionals specifically guide the hunters to the older males of each species, act as a spotter and coach each hunter on which animal to shoot and when to take the shot. Fox, her dad and her 20-year-old son, Matthew, had quite an experience. Linda enjoyed resting and watching the different animals while Ray, Fox’s husband, was the official photographer. Her dad had been

to Africa several times before, and on this trip he completed his “big five.” The big five is a reference to the five most difficult animals to hunt on foot: lion, elephant, cape buffalo – the most dangerous of the big five, leopard and rhino. The rhino her dad shot is the size of a Chevrolet Suburban. Fox killed a waterbok, wildebeest, a cape buffalo, lioness and an 8’3” leopard – a huge size for the species, to name a few, and her son killed a cape buffalo, zebra and two wildebeest. As a nation, Africa’s primary source of income is through these types of hunts – approximately 80 percent. Although some of the animals are thought to be listed on the endangered species list, they’re not. And each year, less than 1/3 of a percent of the population is permitted for hunting.

FAMILY KARATE CENTER (813) 752-9800

602. S. Collins St.,

Plant City, FL 33563

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Family Law Divorce • Alimony Child Support • Paternity Custody & Visitation Post Judgement Modifications

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Criminal Law Felony & Misdemeanors Domestic Violence Bond Reductions Drug Charges Assault & Battery DUIs Sealing or Expungements

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Catastrophic Injuries Wrongful Death Auto & Motorcycle Accidents Insurance Claims Slip & Falls Injuries from Defective Products 24/7 Appointments • Free Hospital and Home Calls Credit Cards Accepted • Habla Español

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www.byrd-law.com The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based upon advertisements. Before choosing a lawyer ask for written information about the lawyer’s legal qualifications and experience.

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

Local » Focus

Sinister Kustom Stop (owners Lonnie and Lauren Bridges) team and Jake with Tail Fins and Chrome host a day of Hot Rod adventures for Plant City Scout Troop 14 lead by Scout Master Brett Clancy, Tony Pullara (Assistant Scout Master), and Mike Toth (Assistant Scout Master and former Sgt. Major in the US Army). Photo courtesy of Brett Clancy

Boy Scout Troop 14 Hot Rod Hoodlums for a Day O Written By: Kelleigh Klein

Dr. Brenda Dukes Chiropractic Physician

OCTOBER IS CHIROPRACTIC MONTH

SEVERAL GOOD RESONS FOR CHIROPRACTIC… WHY SHOULD YOU SEE A DOCTOR OF CHIROPRACTIC ON A REGULAR BASIS? HERE ARE SOME GOOD REASONS:

• WHY USE MEDICINES THAT ARE EXPENSIVE AND HAVE SIDE EFFECTS IF THEY ARE NOT NEEDED? • DOCTORS OF CHIROPRACTIC ARE CONCERNED ABOUT THE CARE OF THE WHOLE BODY, INCLUDING EXERCISE, STRESS REDUCTION, NUTRITION AND CORRECT POSTURE.

• WELLNESS CARE IS ALWAYS BETTER THAN AS NEEDED TREATMENT. A DOCTOR OF CHIROPRACTIC EMPHASIZES KEEPING YOUR BODY HEALTHY AND IN SHAPE SO YOU WILL REMAIN AS PROBLEM FREE AS POSSIBLE.

• DOCTORS OF CHIROPRACTIC SPECIALIZE IN CORRECTING SPINAL SUBLUXATIONS (MISALIGNMENT OF THE VERTEBRAE) THAT NEGATIVELY IMPACT THE ENTIRE BODY AND THE NERVOUS SYSTEM.

• DOCTORS OF CHIROPRACTIC ARE WELL KNOWN FOR THEIR ABILITY TO MINIMIZE, OR EVEN ELIMINATE, ACHES AND PAINS ASSOCIATED WITH THE SPINE AND NERVOUS SYSTEM.

• DOCTORS OF CHIROPRACTIC RECEIVE EXCELLENT TRAINING IN THE CARE OF HEADACHES, BACKACHES, SHOULDER AND NECK AILMENTS, AND LEG AND FOOT PROBLEMS.

• BEFORE SAYING “YES” TO THE KNIFE, GET A THOROUGH EXAMINATION AND TREATMENT FROM YOUR DOCTOR OF CHIROPRACTIC.

• PART OF THE CHIROPRACTIC CREED IS TO CARE ABOUT THE PATIENT’S CONTINUAL WELL- BEING. PROBLEM ELIMINATION IS THE NUMBER ONE PRIORITY.

• MOST INSURANCE COMPANIES COVER CHIROPRACTIC.

Blessings, Dr. Dukes and Staff

Dr. Brenda Dukes • Chiropractic Physician 752-2524 • 2401 Walden Woods Dr. • Plant City, FL 33566

Dr. Dukes encourages you to write her with any questions concerning chiropractic care.

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

n August 14th , seven boys from Boy Scout Troop 14 had the opportunity to earn their Painting Merit Badge in a very cool way . . . they enjoyed a Saturday working on hot rods and painting their troop trailer with the professional assistance of Sinister Kustoms Hot Rod Shop and store owners Lonnie and Lauren Bridges. According to Troup 14 Scout Master, Brett Clancy, “The main purpose of the Merit Badge program in the Scouts is to expose young men to vocational opportunities and introduce them to leaders in the community.” The day for Troop 14 included working on body repairs and painting their troop trailer. Troop 14 also enjoyed a mini car show and watched a pin striping demonstration. In addition, they enjoyed time with Jake from Tailfins and Chrome who covered the event for his show (www. Tailfinsandchrome.com). Sinister Kustom Shop is a full service hot rod shop located in Plant City (911 South Woodrow Wilson Street, #812). According to their web site (www. sinisterkustoms.com) , they specialize in Old Skool metal fabrication, custom paint jobs using House of Kolor, PPG and Outrageous Finishes products, hand-laid hot rod frames, realistic flames, airbrush designs, body and chassis modifications

and more. Eighty percent of their customer base is restorations. They work on vehicles from the 1930s to 2000s. The majority of their work is on 1950s and 1960s models.

Before Troop 14 rolled up their sleeves and began stripping their trailer and then repainting, they had the opportunity to gain an education in the process from Scout Master, Brett Clancy. They learned painting basics like preparation, painting and filling holes. All important in the success of the overall project. Sinister owner Lonnie Bridges states on the store web site (www.sinisterkustoms.com), “The guys did a great job – I think there are a few Hot Rod Hoodlums in Troop 14.” Troop 14 members who participated include: Anthony Pullara, Andrew Pullara, Jesse Jordan, Hunter Sutherland, Kevin Bailey, Jack Toth, Liam Clancy and D.J. Garrett. This represented just a few of the 35 boys who are members of Troop 14. The mission of the troop is to model and live the promise of the scouting movement by providing the finest program, adult leadership and resources available so our Scouts can be all that scouting deems possible: “Duty to God, Duty to Country and Duty to Obey the Scout Law (www. epcpc.org).”

Local » Focus

therapeutic massage Parents/ Teachers Back-to-school STRESS? Give yourself a

TIME OUT!

Share A Smile Helping Children with Craniofacial Birth Defects Written By: Jason Stone

hare A Smile hosted its first fundraiser on Saturday, August 28 outside of Nick’s Pizzeria in Plant City. “We started Share a Smile a couple of months ago,” said Jaime Avramovic, founder and married mother of two. What inspired Share A Smile? “My daughter was born with cleft-lip and palate so we founded an organization that helps fund craniofacial surgeries for children in other countries.” The foundation plans to donate all of its proceeds to Operation Smile, a larger non-profit organization with similar goals. Cleft lip and palate is a congenital deformity caused by abnormal facial development during gestation. It is the non-fusion of the body’s natural structures that form before birth. Approximately 1 in 700 children born have a cleft lip and/ or a cleft palate. Surgeries can continue periodically as a child grows until 18-20 years of age. The aims for Share a Smile are many. With money from sales outside of fundraising events, “we plan to send gift bags to children while they are in the hospital

recovering from craniofacial surgeries,” said Jami. Also, “My friend Charlene is designing special hospital gowns for the children.” Twice a year, they plan to send toys to children who are recovering. “But our biggest goal is awareness,” said Jami. “People aren’t aware that it’s fixable. It is, it’s just a deformity.” Bottled water was sold with proceeds helping the organization while attendees to the event enjoyed a truck show by Freaks of Nature, a mini-truck club. Wayne of Nicks Pizzeria and Wings at 1701 James L. Redman Pkwy got permits for the fundraiser and gave them space outside the restaurant that was needed, and offered free food coupons to those who helped the cause. Jami’s 6-month old daughter Ashlynn is doing well from the ongoing treatments. She is scheduled for her 4th surgery in two weeks. Share A Smile is actively looking for sponsors. Find the organization on Facebook by searching Share*A*Smile or contact Jami at Jamiavramovic@yahoo.com

MM15607 For an appointment call “Nikki” Jackson

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754-1567 foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

Local » Focus

New teachers from Strawberry Crest join Principal David Brown and Assistant Principal-Curriculum Christi Raburn for a photo after winning the spirit trophy for their unique renditon of rewritten lyrics to Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’ “ Photo by Cheryl Johnston

New teachers from Bailey Elementary are all smiles after receiving their goodie bags and flowers to welcome their first year in an Area 6 school. Photo by Cheryl Johnston

Chamber of Commerce Hosts 25th Annual New Teacher Breakfast The Plant City community thinks its teachers are tops. T Written By: Cheryl Johnston

he 25th Annual New Teachers Breakfast welcomed 162 teachers new to eastern Hillsborough County in 28 schools on August 19 with a great morning meal and an armload of freebies. Key sponsors included the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, Americare Ambulance Service, Bright House Networks, Florida Strawberry Festival, and Suncoast Schools Federal Credit Union. From table conversations to team cheers, the newbies realized Area 6 schools are great places to teach. Area 6 Director Jerry Jackson introduced Hillsborough County Public Schools Superintendent Mary Ellen Ilia, who praised Plant City for establishing the tradition now emulated by others in the district. She encouraged the new teachers, describing the Empowering Effective Teachers program implemented through the Gates Foundation grant awarded earlier this year. Ilia said, “You should feel privileged that you will benefit from this support (assigned mentors). Our desire is to help new teachers do great, quicker and with less stress. Thanks ahead of time for

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

all you will accomplish this year.”

An annual highlight is the friendly competition among schools that features school-spirited skits, cheers, songs, or synchronized movements. The Strawberry Crest High School Chargers sang their way to the top this year. International Baccalaureate counselor, Kelly Smith rewrote lyrics to Journey’s 1981 song, “Don’t Stop Believin’,“ and with virtually no practice, organized the SCHS group into a choir of sorts. The crowd chuckled at lines like “We’ll take your cell phone” and “No bathroom passes.” The large trophy and bragging rights remain at the school until the next contest. Marshall Middle School’s team, led by Principal Daphne Blanton, earned the “Most Spirit” award while Valrico Elementary was named “Most Creative.” Three new teachers with Principal Gina Becker from Wilson Elementary (2009 winner) expressed appreciation for the warm welcome. Guidance Counselor Carol Opitz, and teachers Yahaira

Lopez (3rd grade), and Liza Jones (1st grade) said: “We thank our Plant City community for supporting our schools and bringing cohesion and spirit to our area as we begin the 2010-2011 school year.” Enthusiastic school mottos and annual themes increase the excitement. Elementary school Principal Rhonda Pulling reminded the crowd that “Trapnell’s Spirit is Unsinkable,” a reference to their springtime sinkhole experience when staff and students relocated temporarily to Strawberry Crest High School.

City High School introduced her three new teachers, but Dina Wyatt, principal of Walden Lake Elementary, attended alone because the school had no new teachers. This was also true at Lincoln Elementary, Bryan Elementary and Simmons Career Center. Anne Haywood, Director of Bruton Memorial Library, thanked the events sponsors and 87 local businesses for their generosity, praising the “cohesive, strong, and supportive community of Plant City.”

Durant Cougar teachers, led by Assistant Principal for Curriculum Claire Mawhinney, demonstrated their student’s infamous “RAWR,” complete with clawed hand motions.

As they moved through a long display of donations, new teachers filled bags with pencils, pens, pads, key rings, tote bags, a “Blood Donor” T-shirt, candy, apples, grape tomatoes, cookies, discount coupons, and a “Welcome New Teacher” floral arrangement.

The Turkey Creek Middle School “Super Teachers” donned black plastic trash bag capes with the letter “ T “emblazoned in white-tape. The Wilson team, although small, engaged the audience in an interactive “We’ve Got Spirit” chant.

Chamber of Commerce Chairman Charles Harris recalled, “We all have memories of special teachers who touched our lives.” With these words, he inspired the eager new teachers to become those who will impact this and coming generations.

Principal Colleen Richardson of Plant

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813-754-6300 foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

Local » Focus worldwide. As an author, speaker, ministry leader and father, Mull has learned through the illness of his young son that “faith can indeed move mountains.” Jake Powell, Jr. lends a touch of mystery to his book’s title: “Dark Secrets Your Pastor Won’t Reveal.” He and wife Janice serve in ministry at First Baptist Church of Progress Village in Tampa. Douglas Tatro, 60, golfs regularly and attends Lakeland’s Parkview Baptist Church where Clark leads worship. “Golfing with God” compares golf-related examples to new life in Christ. The book, along with hats and shirts, are perfect ways to share faith. “Changed lives, not book sales” drives Tatro to continue his writing journey. Glenda Black attended the workshop to learn more about the writing craft. A Hospice specialist who’s currently in remission, Black has sharing her faith walk through Caring Bridge, an online journal. Many friends from work and Plant City Church of God have insisted she write, so she’s decided to grow her skills. “Writing is great therapy,” said Black, “and a way to help others.”

Truth Christian Store and Event Center hosted six local authors recently for a book signing. Photo by Cheryl Johnston

Truth Christian Store Features Six Local Authors at Book Signing T

Written By: cheryl johnston

ruth Christian Store and Event Center is Plant City’s go-to place for inspirational reading material, gifts, and local faith-based happenings.

Owners Donald and Jennifer Flagg, along with her parents Fred and Irene Wright, hosted six local authors at a book signing August 14 in the historic building at 301 South Collins Avenue. Terry Clark, Debora Coty, Ken Jones, Richard Mull, Jake Powell Jr. and Douglas Tatro networked together to meet local fans. Seffner author, columnist, and speaker Debora Coty also presented a one-hour writers’ workshop, “So You Want to Be

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

a Writer.” She encouraged attendees to register for the 3rd Annual Florida Inspirational Writers’ Retreat, to be held September 25 at CedarKirk Conference Center in Lithia.

Though she only began writing for publication a few years ago, Coty now has numerous books, a very active web following, hundreds of magazine articles, and a monthly newspaper column “Grace Notes” to her credit. She combines humor and personal experience in “Mom Needs Chocolate” (Barbour, 2009). Terry Clark, 60, is the worship pastor at Parkview Baptist Church in Lakeland. “Swim to the Light, is the 2008 biography of Alfonso Dominguez, a man he met on

a Malaysian mission trip who, at 15, swam the Guantanamo Bay to escape Fidel Castro’s communist regime to freedom and a new life in Florida. Ken Jones, 45, ministers and counsels at the Melbourne Church of Christ. His devotional, “A Prodigal Return,” points readers to the Bible using brief stories and. Jones wants people to “lighten up and have fun” while they explore their faith. Richard Mull of Seffner directs his tenyea-old ministry, Operation Light Force. His books, “Lord Disciple Me” and “Lord Heal Me,” have helped countless numbers grow in their faith and the 40-Day life-changing, city-transforming books have been featured at The Call events

Riverview resident Carole McGhee, 68, also attended the workshop. She, along with Coty, is a member of Brandon Christian Writers. The group meets on fourth Thursdays monthly at St. Andrews United Methodist Church to encourage and critique each other. Coty encourages writers of all ages to “write every day as a discipline, even if no one else will read it. Build your skills through reading and practice and a good grammar guide.” The Flaggs and Wrights credit customer conversations for inventory ideas. In addition to this second signing event since the store’s March opening, the center also hosts free family movie nights and a church uses space for Sunday services. Jennifer Flagg said, “We want Truth to be a gathering place, where people can share their faith and their friendship.” For Christian resources and a reader’s and writer’s haven, always look to Truth.

Just what the doctor ordered. A new, dedicated orthopedic wing. We take the stress out of orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation. Thanks to our exciting, new renovations, patients can now recover faster and more comfortably in their own specialized, private room. Our 10 luxury rooms are designed large enough to accommodate physical therapy equipment, so therapists can come to the patients. Rooms include flat screen TVs and access to an internet and media café – with computers and ortho-ergonomic furniture. Even fold-out sleeper sofas allow family members to stay over night. It’s the perfect healing environment in every way.

New Orthopedic Wing 301 N. Alexander St. Plant City, FL 33563 southﬂoridabaptist.com For a referral to one of our orthopedic surgeons, call 813-443-2018 foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

IRT-1969A-A AUG 2010

RE TIREMENT Doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Mean You Retire from Life Doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Mean You Retire from Life

Maybe your idea of retirement is having a second career or working part time, volunteering or indulging in your favorite hobbies. Doing the things you want to do is what retirement should be all about.

Maybe your idea of retirement is having a second career or

Learn how. For a free, personalized review of your retirement, call your local Edward Jones financial advisor.

Stephen W Shouse, Financial Advisor, AAMS 1514 S Alexander Street Suite 206 Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-9400

Flynn, Financial Advisor working part time, volunteeringCarly or indulging in your favorite 2501 Thonotosassa Rd Plant City, FL 33563

hobbies. Doing the things you813-759-1491 want to do is what retirement should be all about.

Tim Shuff, Financial Advisor, AAMS 104 N Evers St Suite 102 Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-1071

Learn how. For a free, personalized review of your retirement, call your local Edward Jones financial advisor.

Luke Carvalho, Financial Advisor 2501 Thonotosassa Rd Stephen Plant City, FL 33563 W Shouse Financial Advisor 813-759-1491 1514 S Alexander Street 24 september 2010Suite thefocusmagazine.com 206 Plant City, FL 33563 .

Tim Shuff

Financial Advisor .

104 N Evers St Suite 102 Plant City, FL 33563

Local » Focus

Dart Container Corporation representative presented the oversized $5,000 check awarded to Principal Sally Stephens and Burney students (L to R) Jocelyne Cloutier, Isabel Hernandez, Antwan Reid, Martha Nava, Ak’mee Burton, and Armoni Miller. Photo courtesy of Burney staff and parents

Burney Elementary School Awarded $5,000 Grant for Technology Good News Galore at Burney Elementary School T Written By: Cheryl Johnston

he Esther D. Burney Elementary School is a Plant City gem and Principal Sally Stephens is excited to share why its students and staff shine.

Parents agree. Mary Simmons said, “I’m so glad my boys are here. I’m impressed with how they’re taught. When I don’t understand their homework, I can call or come over and they always help.”

program for 5th graders. Teachers Scott Roper and Stephanie Brever coordinated the math/science program that allows children to solve real world problems with robotics engineering. Using electronic Netbooks, students build Lego robots, and then write computer programs to make them perform tasks.

higher education and earning the grades required to attend college.

For a time, Burney was a 6th grade center and the Plant City Exceptional Center. Tomlin Middle School also In August, the Dart Container temporarily relocated here while that Joanne Amaro also appreciates the Corporation presented Burney with a facility was remodeled. After a summer communication between teachers and $5,000 check as one of 50 nationwide 2002 renovation with additions, Esther D. parents, commenting, “It’s wonderful. I recipients of its 50th Year Anniversary Another cause for fresh excitement is Tony Burney Elementary was dedicated April think the teachers’ methods are always grants. Awards were for equipment 1, 2003. Its rich history has touched many positive. A positive attitude is everything!” Dungy’s “All Pro Dads” chapter which purchase or the advancement of science, Plant City lives. officially begins in October at Burney. math, engineering, or technology programs Burney also has a Head Start program, Stephens and her staff value the “fabulous to the winning K-12 schools or nonprofits curriculum embedded character education, parent involvement” to help children Marilyn Honors values the school’s closein communities where Dart has production and a H.O.S.T. Program for K-5 afterbecome all they can be. An iMoms knit learning community. She said, “I just facilities. Two Hillsborough County love Burney Elementary. Since I walked school care. Additionally, it’s one of program, the Family First complement to schools received $5,000 each: Esther D. in the door with my baby three years ago, I APD, is forming soon as well. three county schools recognized with the Burney and Walden Lake Elementary. have felt like a part of the Burney family.” Promising Practice award. Twenty-two classroom teachers plus Stephens, in her 7th year as principal, numerous specialists guide the young Stephens thanks neighborhood parents for Stephens has been on a mission to equip describes her passion for the school learners. Burney spends its Title 1 money their support. “We are so proud, and we Burney, the only Renaissance school in established in 1923: “This school is my want our community to share that pride. In East Hillsborough County, with the latest on resource teachers for reading, writing, heart and soul, and my teachers feel the short” she says, “We truly live our mission math, and technology. This probably technology, so its 330 students can have same. You won’t find better teachers here – “Learning, whatever it takes! Every every learning advantage. Flat screen accounts for excellent 2010 FCAT scores: anywhere. Because our diverse student computers and interactive “Smart Boards” 100% of 4th graders passed FCAT Writes, child, every day, every way! Thank you for population has every obstacle in their way, are in all instructional spaces, with a high with 94% of those scoring 3.5 or above. the joy of knowing and teaching your child. we must hook them on learning early. The Burney Broncos are truly the best!” stakes testing lab coming in February. We want families to realize their children Every Friday students and staff wear grade/ couldn’t be in better hands.” mascot/color specific “Burney University” According to Stephens, “We are one of eight district schools to have a Robotics T-shirts. Conversations revolve around foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

Good Health Starts with a Great Doctor

Local » Focus

As your MDVIP physician and your partner in health and wellness, Dr. Smith... Works with you one-on-one. Supports you in all areas of your health: nutrition, fitness and emotional well-being. Creates a personalized health management and prevention plan. Stays involved and is your advocate for specialty care. Call 813-754-3344 for a complimentary health and wellness consultation with Steve Smith, MD. Certified, American Board Internal Medicine

www.SteveSmithMD.com 1907 S. Alexander Street, Suite 1, Plant City

Plantacious! Fall Festival and Downtown Antiques Marketplace coming to Plant City

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new family fun event is coming to Historic Downtown Plant City. Saturday, October 9th the Plant City Chamber of Commerce will host its inaugural daylong “Plantactious! Fall Festival and Antique Road Show.” Plantacious! will take place throughout the city’s downtown historic district and offers something for the entire family. The day begins at 8:00 a.m. with the Downtown Antiques Marketplace, a local spin-off of the now-legendary PBS show, Antiques Roadshow. It’s part adventure, part history lesson, and part treasure hunt as Qualified Appraisers will be available at Plant City’s historic train station to estimate the value of heirlooms brought to the event. In addition, there will be antique treasures galore throughout downtown as the city’s antique merchants combine with handcrafters and antique dealers from throughout Florida to offer one of the largest single-day antique and

craft markets in the area. Family fun follows at 10 a.m. with fallthemed events, face painting, a hay bale maze, toy train rides, and more. Downtown restaurants will offer special seasonal menus and in addition to their regular tasty fare. Also planned is live music, from blue grass to country, in McCall Park. Parking is free and plentiful all over downtown. The daylong event will run from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. with activities taking place throughout the day. The Chamber’s Downtown Business Development Committee plans to make this annual event a draw for visitors and residents from Tampa to Lakeland to Apollo Beach and Dade City. Plant City is full of rich history and the downtown district is a perfect example of that. Gather your friends and family and make plans now to attend this seasonal celebration!

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813-754-0317 foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

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Larry Scott to Speak at Tomlin Middle School About Rachel’s Challenge and Chain Links Club Written By: Cheryl Johnston

omlin Middle School has a remarkable reputation for excellence, and because of a new program, it’s about to raise the bar on that standard. Mark your calendars for September 21 and attend to hear Larry Scott share about how parents and students can be the difference makers in their communities. Scott’s children attended Columbine High School and his niece Rachel Scott was the first killed during the 1999 shootings by confused teens. Her acts of kindness and compassion coupled with the contents of her six diaries have become the foundation for one of the most life-changing school programs in America. The tragic shooting cut short the life she had hoped to spend helping others. As a result, the “Rachel’s Challenge” organization was established by her father Darrell Scott, in an effort to educate and ensure that tragedies like Columbine don’t happen again. Schools provide opportunities for students to positively impact others through the Chain Links Club. Thanks to PTSA president Di Lott and Kim Cotnoir, the PTSA chairman in charge of introducing

and establishing the new program, Tomlin’s club is forming now. Tomlin staff and parents viewed a 10-minute preview video of the club’s effectiveness in reaching young students and most wanted to get involved in any way necessary. Cotnoir and Lott are expecting the same reaction from the student population who will see the video and hear from Larry Scott during school hours on the 21st and from the parents and interested citizens who will experience the same thing that evening. Please don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about how involved communities and individuals can potentially save lives, reduce threats, and help troubled young folks. Chili’s Restaurant has graciously agreed to give the first 300 attendees a coupon for a free appetizer on their next visit and will provide a light refreshment at the event from 5:45 to 6:20 p.m. It is suggested that folks arrive early to secure a seat. Phone Tomlin Middle School at 813-7579400 or visit www.rachelschallenge for more information. The impact of a Chain Links Club in each school could make all the difference in the world.

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Local » Focus

Young Champion in Dylan Varn puts his Plant City hometown on the map Written By: Jenn Sheppard

bike, a Honda 50, had training wheels.

getting the holeshot and winning all three (motos),” he said. The race is set up in a three-moto format. Winners are determined by averaging the three races, which are 20-minute sprints over a onemile track.

“Dylan (saw) a dirt bike and got really excited and the next day we went and bought him one, him and my daughter both,” Leslie said. Dylan competes nearly every weekend at a local track in Dade City, Fla. Plus, he rides every single day when he comes home from school. “We have two tracks at our house,” Leslie said. “Kenny Yoho trains him and Vince (DeVane) comes out to the house and rides with him, too.”

Dylan won the first and second moto by more than 10 seconds each time. In the third moto, after getting the holeshot – the first one off the line into the first turn – Dylan was passed for the lead and held second the whole race until he came back to take the lead on the last jump at the finish line. “He won by a tenth of a second,” said Dylan’s mother, Leslie. The Varn family instilled in Dylan the desire to win. So, even if he crashes a lot, Dylan said it just makes him try harder. “It’s fun to ride,” Dylan said. “I like winning.”

After sweeping the national and getting national attention, Dylan started training for the Winter National Olympics this Nov. 20-27 in Gainesville, Fla. It’s another week-long event that attracts the entire motocross industry to the Sunshine State. There, Dylan plans on stepping up to the 7- to 8-year-old class.

“That’s his goal,” Leslie said. “He wants to win when he rides.

At age 7, Dylan’s already heard the best advice. “Never give up. Ever.”

Dylan is now one of the best.

Beside mom and dad, Dylan said he looks up to Florida’s own top professional motocrossers, like Ricky Carmichael, Bubba Stewart, both winners of AMA amateur national titles at Loretta Lynn’s.

Dylan is able to compete thanks to help from iMoto and Jim Harrison, Kenny Yoho MX Schools, Waggles, and his mom, dad, sister, grandma and grandpa.

Ask him what he remembers from the event and he’ll tell you: “I remember

“He’s been around it his whole life,” Leslie said. “His dad used to race.” Dylan’s first

LL Champ Dylan Varn

Photo by: Leslie Varn

ylan Varn, a 7-year-old Knights Elementary School student in Plant City, won the 2010 American Motorcyclist Association’s Loretta Lynn National Motocross Championship in Hurricane Mills, Tenn. on Aug. 2-7. The event is similar to the Little League World Series of motocross organizing 1,386 amateur racers from ages 4 to over 50 in different divisions depending on their age and machine, which range in size from 50cc to 450cc.

Dylan, who started riding dirt bikes at the age of 2, took the overall win in the 4- to 6-year-old class. In his division, there were 20 entries – four from Florida and others as far away as Washington, Texas and California. And it was his first time at Loretta’s Ranch, a famous week-long event where the best racers in the world come to Loretta’s for a chance to make it in American motocross.

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september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

Local » did you know

Preserving History Through The Ever-present Photographer, Bill PhotographsFriend I

submitted By: Plant City Photo Archives & History Center

n an article in The Tampa Tribune, Saturday, September 4, 1999, in honor of Bill Friend who passed away Sunday, August 29th, Panky Snow quoted local photographer Bud Lee as saying, “Without knowing it, he and Gladys Jeffcoat have created a living legacy of this town… the festivals, the parades, weddings. I was overwhelmed at the wealth of history they have.” Continuing, Bud Lee said that Bill Friend “was a historian with thousands, if not tens of thousands, of negatives. They need to be filed in a climate controlled archive.” In the spring of 2000, Plant City Photo Archives was incorporated and contracted with Bill Friend’s widow, Virginia, to acquire a major portion of Bill Friend’s collected photographs - seven overflowing file boxes of films and prints. (In October 2008, Plant City Photo Archives further expanded its collection of historic photographs by contracting with Gladys Jeffcoat to acquire her many thousands of photographs, along with her collection of over 400 cameras and her camera museum. Jeffcoat is currently working with the Photo Archives & History Center to identify and catalog the collection.) So, who is Bill Friend? To get a better understanding of this, let’s note that there were a number of photographers who worked, at various times, in the Plant City area. We’ve already mentioned Bill Friend and Gladys Prevatt Jeffcoat. The third that comes into the picture is Ray H. Kramer. Kramer returned to Plant City from New York City in August 1935 and set up his photography business in the Trask Building on the NW corner of Collins and Reynolds Streets. He was productive and picked up a lot of work, possibly also working for The Courier. In 1938 he moved into the space formerly occupied by the Dormany Sisters’ Arcade Tea Room in the Wright Arcade on West Reynolds

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Street.

Gladys Prevatt, who later married Dallas Jeffcoat, had worked part-time for Mrs. Myrtle Young at the Hollywood Studio on East Reynolds Street while a teenager. In 1945, when she was 19, she purchased the Kramer photography business from him, with Kramer holding the paper and Gladys Prevatt making monthly payments. She established the business as the Arcade Studio and dealt in photography and Eastman-Kodak cameras and products.

Ray Kramer, after supposedly selling the business, including the equipment and film collection, by 1948 had set up shop at 114 North Collins Street under the name, Ray Kramer Studio. William J. “Bill” Friend was born to a good family in Lakeland, Florida, in 1929. He attended Lakeland High School 19441948, during which time he developed a strong interest in photography. School mates say he took pictures of just about everything he saw.

business out of his home in Trailer Square, Gladys Jeffcoat set up business in a converted garage behind the Jeffcoat residence on Merrin Street, and the Hollywood Studio was still operating at 121 East Reynolds Street.

By 1957, the Hollywood Studio was closed, Bill Friend’s Studio was in its place at 121 East Reynolds Street, and Ray Kramer was no longer in the photography business. Jeffcoat still was operating out of the converted garage. By this time, Bill Friend was becoming very popular, and he picked up work from The Courier, the Chamber of Commerce, and a number of schools and local organizations, including the Florida Strawberry Festival. He and Gladys Prevatt Jeffcoat provided virtually all the photographic services for the small but thriving town of Plant City.

When Gladys Jeffcoat closed her studio and focused more on raising her family than her photography, (only to re-start her business over the years to follow), Bill Friend picked up the slack. Friend was known for having excellent equipment. Not long after his graduation from Akira Suwa, who worked for and learned Lakeland High, in 1948, Bill Friend much from Bill Friend, and who went on enlisted in the United States Marine to be a successful staff photographer for Corps and spent his service years applying the Philadelphia Inquirer for 23 years, his photographic skills and adding to them. said Bill’s equipment “was very much advanced.” “Bill was a very good man, and Returning from Marine Corps duty, Friend a really good photographer.” moved to Plant City in 1952. Bill’s brother George Friend had become the station Ironically, the Post Office had changed manager at WPLA radio in 1951. Plant Friend’s address on East Reynolds Street City’s only radio station was growing in from 121 to 115 East Reynolds Street size and popularity and provided Bill the around 1960. Friend moved to his own opportunity for some good photo shoots building at 115 South Palmer Street in and good contacts. 1975. Bill Friend’s Studio remained there for the rest of his life, until August 29, 1999. Bill married Virginia in 1953, and about the same time or soon after, the Friends Friend was known as a man who got the bought Ray Kramer’s photography shot he wanted. In 1962, he followed a business at 114 North Collins Street, shipment of Roy Parke’s Parkesdale Farms’ along with all the equipment and the strawberries from the farm, to the Tampa photo collection, which included many photos/films identical to those sold earlier airport, where they were loaded onto an Eastern Air Lines plane, and then onboard to Gladys Prevatt Jeffcoat. Bill Friend’s as berries were served to passengers, then Studio was in this location until 1957. to Pittsburgh, where they were unloaded In 1956, Ray Kramer had a photography

from the plane and loaded into a produce truck for delivery – shooting all the way. He then captured the delivery truck arriving at an Eat ‘N Park Coffee Shop, and he photographed the strawberry pie preparation and the diners enjoying their delicious Plant City strawberry pie in snowy Pittsburgh. That was Bill Friend. February 19, 1999, was the day that Plant City reclaimed the title for the World’s Largest Strawberry Shortcake. It measured 8’ wide and 104’ long – over 800 square feet. Friend was everywhere, shooting one angle, then another. Not finding what he wanted, Bill climbed the side of a building overlooking the massive cake and shot some of the best photos of that recordsetting event from that rooftop. That was Bill Friend. Everyone knew Bill Friend for his warm grin and pleasant wide smile. He was personable and warm. And he was at heart a highly professional photographer who loved his work and his community, and who would almost always appear at notable and mundane events – to get the shot. Plant City Photo Archives & History Center has scanned, digitized and preserved thousands of Friend’s photos, and are still processing them. And they are in a climate controlled archive. Sources: Panky Snow, The Tampa Tribune, Saturday, September 4, 1999; Plant City Enterprise, June 17, 1938; Peninsular Telephone Company directories 1940, 1941, 1948; Polk’s Plant City Directory 1956, 1957, 1964-1975; letter from Akira Suwa, August 31, 1999, Plant City Photo Archives & History Center Oral History Project 2008, Remembering Plant City; Tales from the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World; Plant City Photo Archives & History Center photo collections.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

Local » chamber of commerce

GREATER PLANT CITY O n August 19 th. your Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce played host to over 200 new District 6 teachers at the Annual NEW TEACHER COFFEE. This event was held at the Expo Building on the Strawberry Festival grounds.

Anne Haywood chaired this wonderful program and, as usual, Anne did a fantastic job welcoming the new teachers to our community. Each new teacher was treated to breakfast (courtesy of 911 Catering from South Florida Baptist Hospital) and each received a gift bag filled with all sorts of goodies. Each teacher also had a chance to win some great door prizes. In addition to the Chamber, the following businesses were major sponsors of this event: Americare Ambulance Service, Bright House Networks, Florida Strawberry Festival and Suncoast Schools Federal Credit Union. Marion Smith, Chamber President wanted me to convey her thanks to all the businesses that helped make this occasion such a tremendous success. Have you had an opportunity to visit the new VETERANS’ MEMORIAL PARK at Courier Field? It covers two acres and is a wonderful addition to our City and a great tribute to our Veterans. There is still time to order engraved memorial bricks which are 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 Plant City history. Memorial bricks are open to all Veterans of the United States Military Services: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard. For information on obtaining a brick, contasct Jennifer Closshey at 813-719-9484 or Marsha Passmore at 813-245-2244. On September 17 th. UNITY IN THE COMMUNITY is sponsoring a Ribs to Go dinner at SweetBay Supermarket, 507 Wheeler Street, Plant City. You can pick up the Ribs for lunch between the hours of 11 to 1 or if you prefer for dinner you can get them between 4 and 6 PM. Unity provides for those in need in the Plant City Area in many ways. This is a great way to support their program. Don’t miss the STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CAR SHOW which will take place on Saturday, September 18 th. in downtown Plant City.

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE submitted By: bruce rodwell

This is a great family event and a wonderful opportunity to look over some great classic automobiles. The event is open to 1984 and older cars and trucks. There is also a display of customs and hot rods.

grounds. Proceeds from this great event will benefit the various needs of the hospital. For ticket information, call Judy Martin at 813-7571277.

There is oldies music, a 50/50 drawing, vendors and crafters. Bring the family and enjoy a great evening.

Saturday, September 25 th. is the date the PLANT CITY GARDEN CLUB is kicking off the fall gardening season with its second GARDEN FEST. This great event will take place at the Depot, 102 N. Palmer Street, Plant City. The hours of the event are from 9 AM to 3 PM. There will be a host of vendors offering a variety of plants, garden art and accessories for your gardens and outdoor living areas. A $3. donation will get you into Garden Fest.

On Saturday, September 18 th. the TRUTH CHRISTIAN STORE & EVENT CENTER will host The Last Supper Collection. This collection was patiently gathered over a period of many years by Eleazar Ben Aurichin, a citizen of both Israel and the United States. This collection is believed to be unique. It consists of fifty-two intact bowls, plates, drinking cups, pitchers, oil lamps and a chalice - made and used in Judea from 100 BC through 100 AD. Each of these items has somehow survived approximately twenty centuries intact and no two are exactly alike. All of these antiquities in the Last Supper Collection will be displayed as they would have appeared two thousand years ago, set on a dining table in Jerusalem. There will also be an exhibit of ancient crucifixion nails, medical instruments, coins, tools, fisherman’s implements and more. All of these rare relics of the distant past will help the Gospels come alive for you. This event is free and open to all. Young children must be closely supervised while attending. The Trust Christian Store is located at 301 South Collins Street, Plant City. They have a website: www.truthchristianstore.com For additional information of this interesting and informative event you can call the store at 813-363-1582. Did you know the various parks maintained by the City of Plant City are available for family picnics, reunions, and birthdays. These facilities are free for public use, but due to their popularity many residents have requested the ability to reserve a facility for their event. That is now possible and for the nominal fee of $25. you can reserve a pavilion. Reservations may be made in person at the Recreation and Parks offices, 1904 South Park Road weekdays from 8 AM to 4:30 PM. Locations and rules can be found on the city’s web site www.plantcitygov.com by searching “pavilion”. Interested person requiring more information can call 813-659-4255. South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation’s 14 th. Annual DIAMONDS & DENIM gala will take place on Thursday evening, September 23 rd. at the Expo Building on the Festival

At 10 AM, Willow LaMonte from Willow Herbal Delight Gardens will be speaking on growing herbs organically for health and flavor. Then at 11:30 AM, Lynn Barber from the Hillsborough County Extension Service will speak on Florida Friendly Landscaping. The Plant City Daybreak Rotary Club will have hamburgers and hot dogs for sale. The Chambers 8 th. Annual BIKE FEST will take place on Saturday, October 2 nd. This is a great family fun event. In conjunction with this event which is held in downtown Plant City, the Chamber is raffling off a grand prize of a $1500 Visa gift card and a 2 nd. place prize of $500. in Harley Davidson gift merchandise. Tickets are only $10 each and the proceeds benefit the Chamber’s scholarship fund. Tickets can be purchased from amny Chamber member or at the Chamber office, 106 North Evers Street, Plant City. On October 8 th. the PLANT CITY LIONS CLUB is holding their Annual golf tournament at the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club. This tournament is always a fun outing with plenty of food and beverages. Funds raised will benefit both local and international programs for those who have lost their sight. There will be plenty of giveaways, raffle prizes and trophies.

For additional information or to register, call Steve Nierman at 813-757-1205. The Bruton Memorial Library reminds all students to stop by the library and pickup their FREE library card. Stop in and sign up. The annual summer Children’s Nutrition Outreach Program of the UNITED FOOD BANK OF PLANT CITY ended on August 20 th. as students were getting ready for the new school year which started August 24 th. Below is a three year comparison of the impact of the program to children in need in our community: Summer 2008 2009 2010 Client visits 2,170 4,102 6,460 Pounds of food 36,000 68,000 77,905 The figures speak for themselves. The need is great. Your continued support enables our very own Food Bank to continue providing groceries to truly hungry individuals in our community.

Here is a date for your calendar….on Saturday, October 16 th. the Greater Plant City Chamber will hold the 1 st. ANNUAL SWAP MEET & STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CAR SHOW. This event will start at 10 AM and continue to 9 PM in downtown Plant City. If you are interested in selling or swapping your car or truck, call the Chamber office at 813-7543707 for information and details. REMEMBER TO SUPPORT YOUR GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERS SHOP & PATRONIZE THE BUSINESSES WHERE YOU SEE THIS SIGN MEMBER GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

From Top Left: Nydia Zayas, Thuy Van Nguyen, Sierra Mangual, Jonneson Vo, Dr. John Kilgore, Victoria Vo, Juan Antonio. (Brittany Ashe not pictured)

ictoria Vo is known throughout Plant City for running a high-end and top-of-theline sanitary nail salon called Ku’tur Nail Lounge and Salon that offers nail, hair, massage and spa services. However, what many may not realize is that Victoria has recently partnered with Dr. John Kilgore of MedMax Weight Loss Center in Brandon. Though originally from Plant City, Dr. Kilgore’s schooling and professional experience brought him all over the country. Several years ago he was finally able to return home, and is excited to be opening a practice in his hometown. By combining services, Ku’tur is now able to offer everything both men and women need to look their best. From spa services to Botox and weight loss, it’s a one-stop shop. Focus: Most of Plant City is familiar with Ku’tur Nail Lounge and Salon, but I’m sure many of us are wondering why there’s a doctor pictured. What’s going on at Ku’tur? Victoria: Dr. John Kilgore, MD, of MedMax is joining our team. We will be offering non-invasive procedures such as Botox, Juvederm, Latisse, weight loss programs with

B12 and B6 shots, and much more. Adding on the medi-spa side of the salon will soon complete our goal of being a “full service” beauty salon. We want to offer a serene, onestop shop for your everyday beauty needs, with a feel good, look good, wellness array of services. We want to show results and educate our clients on what is best for them. We believe in professional quality products and exceptional customer service that each and everyone of our client deserves. Focus: Can you each tell us a little about yourselves? Victoria: I have grown up in Plant City for the last 22 years. I have a wonderful family; my husband Toan and I have an amazing 3-year-old son, Tyler. My entire family lives in the Plant City area as well, and we are a very close family. My sister, Elaine is also

continued on page 42 foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

a successful entrepreneur in Plant City with Plant City Hometown Buffet. Our family enjoys the community and is always willing to provide our hometown with the best quality services. Growing up in a family full of entrepreneurs, it was natural for me to start my own business.

continued from page 41

I have been in the beauty industry since I was 18. I started off first as licensed esthetician and soon after became a nail technician. After owning my first nail salon at the age of 22, I soon realized I wanted more than just a small limited serviced salon. I envisioned an ideal full-service salon able to accommodate everyone’s needs. Soon came Ku’tur (couture meaning the leading establishments or designers for the creation of exclusive fashions), where we are able to offer professional exclusive services. I have a passion for the beauty industry and I am always on top of the latest trends, styles, and most importantly cleanliness and sanitation. Nothing is more vital than the safety of clients and yourself when working with the public everyday. Dr. Kilgore: I grew up in Plant City. I went to USF for my undergraduate, followed by University of Tennessee Medical School. I hope the Gator and Seminoles will not be too upset because I went to Tennessee! I did medical practice and medical research for many years before returning to Plant City and opening MedMax, my practice in Brandon. Over the years, through additional training, I have become a weight loss specialist. I am a member of the American Bariatric Physicians, the specialty of medicine dealing with weight loss. Preventative cardiology has been my field since 1991. I have treated ways to prevent heart attacks, often through reducing their weight and prescribing exercise programs to increase their fitness, a key to lasting weight loss. Focus: So how did the two of you end up teaming together to create a medi-spa? Dr. Kilgore: My wife, Cindy Kilgore, was a client of Victoria’s at Sassy’s, the nail salon she formerly owned. That’s how we met. We then discovered we both had had a passion to do the same thing! The rest is history as they say. So we are happy to see this medispa at Ku’tur come to fruition. We both are very enthusiastic about offering all of these medical services along with Ku’tur’s other services to Plant City.

Focus: What services will you be offering? Victoria: On the salon and spa side, we will continue to offer the highest quality services in our industry. The nail lounge offers services for natural nails, nail enhancements, signature pedicures, and the new 14-day Shellac Manicure. The spa offers facials, full body waxing, body massages, teeth whitening, body wraps, spa packages and spa parties. Our cosmetic services include airbrush makeup, eyelash and brow tinting. The salon is a full-service hair salon with color, highlights, cuts, perms, keratin treatments, etc. Dr. Kilgore: There are so many ways to help people look and feel better. Mainly, we’ll be concentrating on non-invasive techniques such as botox, juvederm, latisse, weight loss programs with B12 and B6 shots, and much more. Focus: What is a 14-day shellac manicure? Victoria: Our “14-day Shellac Manicure” is an in-demand service that is very limited at the moment as to where it can be found in the state of Florida. This service is in so much demand that the manufacturers are not producing it fast enough to service the need. We were lucky enough to get our hands on this product line and bring it to Plant City. Yes, it will last for 14 days, plus the “3 FREE” – free of formaldehyde, toluene, and DBP. Gel polish will last longer, make your nails stronger and grow, and will not chip, including the French manicure. No more drilling and thinning out your natural nails anymore. This is the best thing you can ever get done for your natural nails and toes. Focus: Tell us about the Botox and wrinkle-fillers. Dr. Kilgore: Yes. These clients are very happy patients. Most really are in love with the Botox results and the fillers to remove deep wrinkles and lines around the lips and increase lips to make them full size. I enjoy this procedure very much because patients are so happy about looking THIN AGAIN and 10-15 years younger in their face. Focus: What makes Ku’tur different than other salon and spas? Victoria: Cleanliness, sanitation and high quality product lines are extremely important to me. We do not use jets that re-circulate the water in our footbaths. We fill the

BOTOX

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

baths with fresh water for each client and the tubs are sterilized with a hospital grade disinfectant. Aromatherapy and a relaxing ambiance achieve relaxation instead of jets that collect bacteria. This creates a serene and sterilized environment for your feet. We are an official Alfaparf salon. Alfaparf of Paris Milan, is a high-end exclusive hair product line, from hair color to your everyday needs of daily shampoos, serums, and styling products. We believe that only the best of products our client’s should deserve. Ku’tur will be offering exclusive cosmetics and skincare products from Arbonne, a completely vegan and organic company. We will be an authorized Arbonne Salon, with products and a wide range of skin care services, such as cosmetics, flawless airbrush makeup, facials, and skin care products for everyday maintenance. Focus: We hear about the obesity epidemic on TV and in magazines. What are your thoughts?

juvederm

Dr. Kilgore: First, it is a very real and major health problem in America and now even China and India. It is caused by two main factors. First is the increase in the size of portions. For example, soft drinks have gone from 8 oz to the Big Gulp, a 400% portion increase. Burgers have gone to double and triple patties. Fries are three times larger than what McDonald’s served 20 years ago, and all the other fast food restaurants are the same. Americans now eat at these fast food restaurants so often! The other factor is huge decrease in the exercise we as a society get. Some schools have no P.E.! No sand lot ball games after school. No one walks to school. If it’s more than two blocks the children are driven to school. And after school it’s TV, video games and the Internet. In the 1950’s no cooked food was ever brought into the home! These huge changes in our culture have made us fat. Focus: What are the health benefits of becoming thinner and more fit? Dr. Kilgore: Prevention of diabetes, lower cholesterol, more good cholesterol, lower blood pressure, longer life, protection from some cancers, less depression, more energy, more sex drive because of more testosterone, and less arthritis since don’t “wear out” your joints. Better sleep. Prevention or cure of sleep apnea. So many benefits! Focus: Do you see men and women? Dr. Kilgore: Absolutely. Probably 40% of my patients are men for weight loss and even wrinkle removal. It helps them with their jobs or even to get a new job. In addition to all the health benefits.

» Location: 2804 James L. Redman Pkwy. Ste. 105 Plant City, FL 33566

» Phone: (813) 759-1231

» Website: www.kuturlounge.com

» Hours Of Operations: Mon - Thurs: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Fri: 10:00 AM - 7:30 PM Sat: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM Sun: Closed

Focus: What else would you like Plant City to know? Victoria: Ku’tur has always been known for offering spa parties for bridal showers, baby showers, birthdays, corporate events, and gatherings. We will now be available to offer amazing packages for groups for our exclusive “Botox Spa Party” starting at $150 with Botox, manicures and pedicures.

Lattise 14 day shellac manicure

We will be offering Ku’tur Blue Card members the utmost VIP treatments. Each individual that is a blue card member will be able to receive his or her B12/B6 shots, Botox visits, nail services, and skin care needs, immediately after the first initial consultation, then after appointments are not needed. (Please check with the Ku’tur Medi-Spa for more details.) foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

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september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

business focus » Crystal Clear Pools of Florida • 629 East Alexander Street, Plant City, 33564 • 813-754-8375 www.crystal-clear-pools.net

Crystal Clear Pools is a family owned and operated business. above is Paul Granville pictured with his family. (Back: Russell, Paul, Sean, Patrick; Middle: Katie, Nanette holding Jackson, Sophie; Front: Ethan)

The Difference is Clear C

rystal Clear Pools of Florida is a family owned and operated pool service company offering a wide range of pool services. According to Crystal Clear Pools founder, Paul Granville, “We are a complete service pool company. We do everything where we don’t have to call in anyone else because we have a lot of depth with our employees.” Paul, who is originally from England, began working in the pool business with a large commercial pool service in the Orlando area. This opportunity gave him a wealth of business experience in the pool industry. After obtaining his state contractor’s license, Paul started his first Crystal Clear Pools of Florida in Four Corners near Clermont and Disney in 2003. With the great success of his first store, he began looking for an area between Lakeland and Tampa to expand. While scouting the area, he not only found a perfect Plant City location for his second store, he also met his beautiful

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Crystal Clear

wife, Nanette. Nanette is from Plant City and owns Textures Hair Studio located at 1701 S. Alexander Street in the O’Brien’s complex. The second Crystal Clear Pools of Florida opened in Plant City in September 2009 and the third store opened shortly after in Clermont.

Crystal Clear Pools of Florida is a state licensed pool contractor who can offer residential or commercial pool services on all pools including weekly pool service, vacation home or commercial pool service, leak detection, pool and deck resurfacing, stain treatment, salt water conversion, full repair service, heater and major equipment installation, equipment upgrades, pool automation systems and solar pool heat (www.crystal-clear-pools,net). In addition to servicing pools, Paul and his team will educate and advise individuals on how to care for their own pools. The Plant City location’s customer base includes the Walden Lake Community, Fish

One of the sparkling clean pools maintained by Crystal Clear Pools.

business focus » Crystal Clear Pools of Florida • 629 East Alexander Street, Plant City, 33564 • 813-754-8375 www.crystal-clear-pools.net

The store is located off Alexander near Wal-Mart, an extremely convenient location for you to get all the pool supplies you need. The friendly staff will help you do-it-yourselfers learn the best techniques to keep your pool Crystal Clear. Hawk, Brandon, Lakeland and rural areas around Plant City. Crystal Clear Pools of Florida staff are NSPF Certified Pool Spa Operators and National Swimming Pool Foundation Certified. They are also members of the Florida Spa and Pool Association and Certified Stain Specialists. All three Crystal Clear Pools of Florida stores are operated by Paul and his family. Paul’s mother, Gail Granville runs the accounts department. His father, Stewart Granville serves as a business advisor. Rounding out the family business team and running the Clermont store is Paul’s sister, Michelle Meeks and brother-in-law and Service Manager, Chris Meeks. Locally, Paul runs the Plant City Crystal Clear Pools of Florida located at 629 East Alexander Street with three additional employees and support from his wife Nanette and their blended family of seven children. Children include Russell (freshman at UT), Sean (senior at PCHS), Patrick (8th grade Tomlin), Sophie (6th grade), Katie (5th grade), Ethan (4th grade) and Jackson (7 months). Even though Paul operates a small business in Plant City with four employees, the services they can offer customers give the quality of a large company thanks to the

support and alliance with their two other stores. Paul and Crystal Clear Pools of Florida are great community business partners. They are members of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, the BNI Networking Group, and support youth athletics. Paul and Nanette are also very involved with their children’s events and activities through school, sports and recreation.

They also service, repair and supply spas.

Crystal Clear Pools of Florida has found the perfect location with their Plant City store. They are centrally located to the Lakeland and Tampa market and have also built a strong clientele in Plant City. In addition, Paul loves the small town feel of the Plant City community. Being from England, Paul says, “Plant City feels a lot like back home . . . small and friendly. A small town keeps you responsible and focused on your business because you want it to be something your family and friends can be proud of.” Crystal Clear Pools of Florida is located at 629 East Alexander Street, Plant City, 33564. They can be contacted by phone at (813) 754-8375. For additional information visit www.crystal-clear-pools. net.

They specialize in above ground pools as well. Visit the showroom to learn more about having an above ground pool installed. foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

business focus » Felton’s Meat and Produce • 617 North Maryland Avenue, Plant City, 33563 • 813-752-1548

Felton’s Meat and locally owned and Produce operated since 1955 F

elton’s Meat and Produce is a locally owned and operated grocery that has been in business since 1955. Felton’s was founded on and continues to focus on giving customers great service and great quality products. Felton’s boasts, “We have your family at the forefront of our thinking when supplying the best quality of products available.” In a recent interview with Felton’s President, Lee Williams, FOCUS learns that the making of this well known and loved grocery is the result of strong family roots, hard work and true love for the Plant City community.

to share stories and catch up with friends and family.

In response to all that Felton and Lucille have given to their Plant City community, they have received many notable accolades. First, in 2005, the Plant City Commission recognized Felton’s for feeding families and supporting community activities. In 2006, Felton Williams was awarded Plant City’s Outstanding Citizen of the Year. This award has been given annually since 1960 by a nomination and unanimous vote from local civic clubs and is considered to be one of the highest awards given in Plant City. In addition, Felton and his family were Felton’s Meat and Produce was founded by invited to serve as the Grand Marshalls for Felton Williams in 1955. He and his wife, the Plant City Christmas Parade in 2009. Lucille, have been married for 66 years Felton has been an active serving deacon at ( January 1944). According to Lee, “My Eastside Baptist Church for more than 50 parents are a great inspiration to me, my years. Felton has also been actively involved sister Karen, and my brother Jeff. Through in the Retail Grocers Association, was ups and downs my parents always have a a South Florida Baptist Hospital board smile.” The Williams are known for having member, and actively involved in many strong faith in God through good and other grocery and supermarket related bad times. Lee adds, “My parents truly boards and associations. love people and that character trait plays well in the business.” For example, during Lee, who now runs the store, follows the holidays, many customer’s come into closely in his father’s footsteps by being a the grocery not just for holiday grocery strong community leader and giving back. shopping for specialty food items (i.e. Lee is deeply involved in the community greens, ribs, chitterlings, steaks for grilling, through organizations like the Greater rabbit,. . .), but they also patronize the store Plant City Chamber of Commerce, where

Felton Williams started Felton’s Meat and Produce in 1955.

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Felton Williams, the founder of Felton’s Meat & Produce, with his son, Lee, the second generation president of Felton’s.

business focus » Felton’s Meat and Produce • 617 North Maryland Avenue, Plant City, 33563 • 813-752-1548

Felton’s Meat & Produce is undergoing a massive remodel on the outside and inside of the store. he serves as the incoming Chairman. Lee is also a member of the Plant City Lions Club, and First Baptist Church of Plant City. In addition, Lee actively supports local non-profits like South Florida Baptist Hospital and United Food Bank of Plant City. From a business perspective, Felton’s is known for offering a complete line of groceries to meet every families needs. Their wide variety of quality, custom cut meat selections include roasts, spiral cut hams, turkeys, fresh lamb, and special order items. The majority of Felton’s fresh fruits and vegetables are locally grown and include ethnic varieties. Dairy products include a wide variety of milks, butters and fresh eggs (including brown eggs). To complete any meal and grocery list, Felton’s has a large frozen food selection packed with ice cream, other desserts, frozen dinners, frozen fruit juices, vegetables, and appetizers.

styling gels, tooth paste, panty hose, nail polishes and removers and more. The store also offers customer services that include check cashing, postage stamps, and TECO payments. Conveniently, customers can also use major credit cards or food stamps to purchase groceries.

For over 50 years, Felton’s has grown to continue to best meet customer needs. This growth has resulted in the grocery expanding to occupy 2/3 of the center it is housed in. Currently, to better keep up with traffic wear and tear and expansion, Felton’s is undergoing a massive remodel on the outside and inside of their building. The store will soon feature a new roof designed by local builder LaRoyce Keene. In addition, the store is also beginning an interior remodel that will result in product placement that will make shopping more customer friendly. The customer service area will be strategically placed to enable customers to get in and out of the store more quickly and efficiently. Felton’s will Felton’s every day smoker prepares delicious to go deli items like pulled pork, also boast increase outdoor lighting to brisket, ribs, whole chickens, and wings. In make the store more inviting and safer for addition, the deli offers fresh cut selections shoppers. of deli meats cut to customer order. Felton’s is conveniently located at 617 To round out the full grocery experience, North Maryland Avenue, Plant City, Felton’s offers an assortment of health and 33563. They can be reached at (813) 752-1548. beauty products that include shampoos,

Felton’s Meat and Produce President Lee Williams and his sister, Karen Davis, pose in front of Felton’s store that began a major facelift at the beginning of the summer. foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

business focus » Walden Lake Medical • 1601 West Timberlane Drive, Suite 300, plant city, fl 33566 • 813-754-4611

Barrington lynch internal medicine

Sheyla Hopkins, MD Internal Medicine

Tony Willson, MD Family Medicine

Satish Dholakia, MD, FACS Urology

Alyssa Ta, MD, FACOG Obstetrics & Gynecology

Christine Zolfoghary, MD General Surgery

HealthPoint Medical Group is growing to better serve the Plant City community. Already, HealthPoint is one of the largest medical groups in the Tampa Bay region, with over 100 physicians. Founded initially as a primary care group, the HealthPoint cornerstone continues to be pediatricians, family practitioners, and internists. Additionally, the medical group offers a wide array of specialties and walk-in care locations.

Drive location. HealthPoint doctors are affiliated with some of the most respected hospitals in Tampa Bay, including St. Joseph’s, St Joseph’s Women’s, South Florida Baptist, St. Joseph’s Children’s and St. Joseph’s Hospital-North.

For the convenience of their patients, the doctors are pleased about the user friendly At the Plant City location, two doctors, Dr. Sheyla Hopkins and Dr. Tony Willson, website, where customers can create an will join Dr. Barrington Lynch, Dr. Satish individual account from which they can Dholakia, Dr. Alyssa Ta, and Dr. Christine securely request appointments and manage Zolfoghary at the 1600 West Timberland prescriptions, renewals, and referrals online.

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

They can also pay the bill online and send non-urgent messages to the physician’s office. Please stop in soon to meet the doctors and discover the convenience of healthcare at HealthPoint.

Barrington Lynch- Internal Medicine Dr. Barrington Lynch is Board Certified in Internal Medicine. His clinical interests include preventive medicine, continuity of care, and promoting physician-patient relationships.

He earned a B.S. in Physiology from California State University in Long Beach and his medical degree from the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle. Internship and residency were completed at the University of South Florida College of Medicine in Tampa. Dr. Lynch is a member of the American College of Physicians and the Florida Medical Association. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine and the National Board of Medical Examiners.

business focus » Walden Lake Medical • 1601 West Timberlane Drive, Suite 300, plant city, fl 33566 • 813-754-4611 The doctor definitely believes in community service and has been recognized by the National Health Service Corporation, by the Suncoast Community Health Center as a recipient of the Preceptorship Award, and as an Unsung Hero by the Suncoast Community Health Center.

Sheyla Hopkins, MD - Internal Medicine Sheyla Hopkins, MD is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and has practiced in Hillsborough County since 2003. Her clinical interests include preventive medicine and the treatment of chronic illnesses, with particular emphasis on Diabetes Mellitus, Hypertension, Smoking Cessation and Women’s Health. She earned her Doctor in Medicine and Surgery at Catholic University School of Medicine Guayaquil, Ecuador, the land of her birth. She completed clerkships in Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Surgery, Obstetrics, and Gynecology at The William J. Harrington Medical Training Programs for Latin America at Jackson Memorial Hospital, University of Miami. She completed her Internal Medicine Internship and Residency at Advocate Christ Medical Center through the University of Illinois at Chicago and is certified in Stress Testing. She is fluent in Spanish and a member of the American College of Physicians. Dr. Hopkins and her husband Jimmy, a computer engineer, along with their dog, Scotch, enjoy reading, biking, and boating along with the sense of community and family here in Plant City. They support the annual Diamonds and Denim Foundation. Her advice to the locals for healthy living is: “Enjoy things in moderation, and if in the sun please use sun block.”

Tony Willson, MD – Family Medicine Tony Willson, MD, specializes in Family Medicine, is conversant in Spanish, and has particular clinical interest in the fields of Cardiovascular Disease prevention, Diabetes management, and Dermatology. He established his practice here in 2007 and is accepting new patients. He encourages people to “Take control of your health as a partner with your doctor. Don’t allow care to be rushed, or yourself to be treated as a number.” He classifies his style as “modern care with old-

fashioned values,” and says “Every patient is important to me, and I give them the best care each and every time I see them. I make house calls, too!” Dr. Willson, born in Vietnam, is a decorated veteran, serving our country in the US Army Intelligence Corps in Germany. He married Janice in 1995 at First Baptist of Plant City and together they parent Arianna, 7, and Andrew, 19 months. Travel and alpine skiing are hobbies. He has been in private practice in Plant City, Florida since 2007 and is currently pursuing a Masters in Health Services Administration through St. Joseph’s College of Maine. Willson’s degrees include an A.A. from Hillsborough Community College in Plant City, a B.A. in Behavioral and Social Services from the University of Maryland, and a Doctor of Medicine from St. Matthew’s University School of Medicine in Grand Cayman. His internship at St. Michael Hospital was completed through the Medical College of Wisconsin and his residency at Rose Medical Center was through the University of Colorado. He is a member of the American Medical Association, American Academy of Family Physicians, and the Urgent Care Association of America. What he enjoys most about practicing medicine here, Dr. Willson says is “the people, without a doubt; the close-knit community atmosphere and pride we have here in Plant City.” He offers this health care suggestion: “Take control of your health as partners with your doctor. Don’t allow care to be rushed, or yourself to be treated as a number. Every patient is important to me. I give them the best care each and every time I see them. It’s modern care with old-fashioned values, and I make house calls, too!”

Satish Dholakia, MD, FACS - Urology Dr. Satish Dholakia is Board Certified by the American Board of Urology. His clinical interests include kidney stones, enlarged prostate, and urinary incontinence. He earned undergraduate, medical, and post-graduate degrees at M.P. Shah Medical College at Saurashtra University

in India. His Surgical and Urology training was completed at the Irwin Group of Hospitals: Jamnagar, India; Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, NY; and Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C., where he also finished a Fellowship in Renal Transplant. Prior to joining HealthPoint, Dr. Dholakia practiced Urology in Kentucky, was a Staff Urologist at a regional hospital and veterans medical center, and an Assistant Professor of Surgery (Urology) at a state university.

conversant in Vietnamese. Working in Plant City reminds Ta of Pennsylvania. She enjoys the “small town feel and the proximity to Tampa,” and looks forward to growing a strong obstetrics/gynecology program here at South Florida Baptist Hospital, so women can birth their children in our community.

As for health care advice, Dr. Ta offers this: Please follow the recommended healthcare screening guidelines for healthcare maintenance and do not ignore early signs and symptoms of a possible The doctor is a Fellow of the American medical problem. Too many times I have College of Surgeons, and an active member seen patients ignore early warning signs of the American Urological Association and allow the problem to progress without and the Southeastern Section of the seeking medical attention. When they American Urological Association. He is finally do see a physician, it becomes also on the board of the American Cancer exceedingly difficult to treat or is too late. Society’s Southeast Hillsborough Unit.

Christine Zolfoghary, MD General Surgery

Alyssa Ta, MD, FACOG – OB/GYN Obstetrics & Gynecology Dr. Alyssa Ta is Board Certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and welcomes new patients. Her clinical interests include pelvic surgery and advanced laparoscopic surgery. Previous to her HealthPoint appointment, she spent eight years in private practice in Tampa. Born in Vietnam, Dr. Ta’s family escaped the communist regime when she was four. Today she spends spare time visiting family throughout Florida and Europe, specifically grandparents in Paris. She also plays piano, reads for pleasure, and cares for her two dogs. As an animal rights supporter, she completes the ASPCA of Tampa Bay Walk-a-Thon each year. Ta graduated from Bryn Mawr College in Pennsylvania with her Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry with a minor in Biology and her Doctor of Medicine from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York. She completed internship and residency at the State University of New York in Buffalo where she was awarded the Haluk Caglar Award for Excellence in Gynecologic Oncology and the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists Award for Excellence in Gynecologic Laparoscopy.

Dr. Miriam Christine Zolfoghary is Board Certified in General Surgery and a member of the American Medical Association and the American College of Surgeeons. Her degrees include undergraduate work at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, and a Master of Science at the University of North Texas in Denton. She attended medical school at Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara in Jalisco, Mexico and completed a Fifth Pathway Program, earning her Doctor of Medicine at New York Medical College in Valhalla. Dr. Zolfoghary completed her internship and residency in General Surgery at Louisiana State University Health Science Center in New Orleans. HealthPoint hopes the Plant City community will visit soon to discover the friendly and professional service they provide in a convenient location at the main entrance to Walden Lake. HealthPoint has the qualified staff, the resources, and the facilities to make certain their patients receive top-notch care. The doctors are eager to treat patients who want the best for themselves and their families.

She is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and a member of the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists. Dr. Ta is foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

business focus » Souther Chiropractic • 1514 S. Alexander Street, Suite 106, Plant City, 33563 • 813-717-7553 www.southerchiropractic.com

Health Solutions Chiropractic & Wellness Center staff (left to right) Lora Weaver (massage therapist), Sam Elliot, Laura O’Connor, Dr. John Souther, Jane Heule, and Jenny Pryor. Not pictured is Laura Garcia (therapy assistant) who is bilingual in Spanish.

Dr. Souther To Host 5th Annual Open To Benefit House Event At New Office Local Charities O n Saturday, October 16th, Souther Chiropractic & Wellness Center will be hosting their 5th annual open house event to benefit The Spring and Steppin’ Stone Farm. The Spring is an organization that provides shelter, food and education to victims of domestic violence, and Steppin’ Stone Farm is a faith based home for troubled teen girls. Dr. Souther and his staff choose local charities to benefit from each year’s open house event where the center provides free new patient consultations, exams, x-rays and a report of exam findings with a charitable donation made at the event. Dr. Souther says he expects another large turnout because “this event provides an excellent opportunity for anyone to start up as a new patient at our wellness center simply by making a donation for two great charities.” In addition to providing new patient exams, the event will have local vendors providing

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

product samples, giveaways, food and drinks, chair massage and more. Everyone is invited to come out to the event, have a great time and support these charities. The event will be held at Dr. Souther’s office on Saturday, October 16th from 8-12p.m. New patient appointments are limited and can be scheduled by calling the office at 813 717-7553. A re-grand opening with the Plant City Chamber of Commerce is also planned during the Open House celebrating the opening of Dr. Souther’s new facility. According to Dr. Souther, “We have been blessed by having the opportunity of serving our patients with quality health care. As we have continued to grow and expand our services, we quickly had a need for a larger office space. Our new office gives us the ability to continue providing quality patient care in a relaxing environment with room for future growth

and expansion of future patient services. We are excited about the new office and the wonderful experience that it provides our patients.”

and inspired me to help others seeking a natural solution to their health problems.”

Dr. Souther graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology before A native of the Plant City area, Dr. completing his education as a Doctor Souther has provided chiropractic and of Chiropractic at Life University in wellness care in Plant City for over six years. His background has been a driving Marietta, Georgia. He also has training force in his focus on chiropractic and and specialized certification as a natural health professional as well as a chiropractic natural wellness. Souther spent his infant extremities practitioner. “ Providing quality and toddler years battling ear infections. results oriented health care by listening After several antibiotic treatments and having tubes placed in his ears, the painful to the needs of each patient, addressing ear infections would only return again. His the cause and not the symptoms of their health concern, and educating patients parents made the decision to try a more with the knowledge of how to achieve natural approach. “With chiropractic their goals is how we go about our service care, removing dairy and limiting sugar to our patients,” Dr. Souther remarks. “It in my diet, my ear infections completely stopped with no need for more antibiotics brings us great joy when we hear success or tubes,” Dr. Souther remembers. “This is stories from patients who have experienced how I was first introduced to Chiropractic just how life changing this can be when and natural health care. It changed my life they were suffering with debilitating pain.

business focus » Souther Chiropractic • 1514 S. Alexander Street, Suite 106, Plant City, 33563 • 813-717-7553 www.southerchiropractic.com Because they did not give up and they continued to search for a better solution, they were able to experience what it again feels like to live free of pain!” According to Visa, one of Dr. Souther’s patients, “I have lived with lower back pain since 1988. It is finally gone! Words cannot describe how grateful I feel for what you did for me. Thank you so much!” Services provided at Souther Chiropractic & Wellness Center include Chiropractic, management of sports and auto related injuries, massage therapy, nutritional therapies and counseling, N.A.E.T., Graston Therapy, laser therapy and spinal disc decompression. These therapies provide a holistic approach to health by addressing both the physical and nutritional needs of a healthy body. Individuals suffering from headaches, neck pain, shoulder pain, low back pain, disc injuries, sciatica, arthritis, Fibromyalgia, weight gain, fatigue, digestive problems and more can benefit from this holistic approach that seeks to find the cause and offer a natural safe solution. Dr. Souther says, “Because we provide many different services, we are able to help a diverse group of people with various health concerns. We are a family practice that takes care of infants, kids, and adults of all ages. No two patients are the same, and that is why we listen to the needs of each patient and recommend a treatment plan that will provide the best patient experience possible

so they can begin to live healthier lives.” Dr. Souther states, “I am blessed with a great team who are knowledgeable and care for the well being of our patients.” Lora Weaver (Licensed Massage Therapist) provides massage therapy that includes neuromuscular, therapeutic, relaxation and pregnancy massage. Additional team members include Dr. Souther’s wife Kelley Souther, Sam Elliott, Laura O’Connor, Jane Heule, Jenny Pryor and Laura Garcia (bilingual assistant). Dr. Souther and his wife, Kelley, also have two beautiful daughters, Madalyne and Kate. Souther Chiropractic and Wellness Center accepts most forms of insurance and self pays. Their hours of operation are Monday and Thursday 8:30 am – 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm; Tuesday 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm; Wednesday 8:00 am – 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm and Friday 8:00 am – 12:00 pm. If you would like more information on the upcoming open house event or to schedule an appointment, you can contact Dr. Souther’s office at (813) 717-7553 or visit www.southerchiropractic.com. Souther Chiropractic is located at 1514 S. Alexander Street, Suite 106, Plant City, 33563 in the Oaks Plaza at Alexander and Mendonsa Street.

A vital part of health is having quality nutrition with a good diet and proper supplementation. Quality nutritional supplements are provided to achieve and maintain good health.

Dr. Souther working with patient Joan Edwards

Health Solutions Chiropractic & Wellness Center Massage Therapist Lora Weaver provides massage focusing on neuromuscular, deep tissue, relaxation and pregnancy therapies foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

business focus » Helicon Foundation Repair Systems • 813-567-1065 • www.heliconfoundations.com

The highly respected Helicon Foundation Repair Systems company will provide prospective customers with recommendations from its commercial and residential customers, as well as insurance companies and engineers.

Helicon Foundation Repair Systems The Sinkhole Rescue Team S As Florida’s premier sinkhole foundation repair company, Helicon Foundation Repair prides itself on providing the highest quality service, for both Commercial and Residential Properties.

oversee all the jobsites. Jay is proud to say, “We train and invest in our workforce, equipping them with the tools and expertise needed to execute a flawless and professional repair. We are always up to date on the latest industry technology. Our personnel will answer all your questions, provide professional, friendly service, give knowledgeable advice, and execute a project that will please you.”

Jay Silver is a hands-on company owner. Jay and his field supervisor, Casey Messer,

Homeowners commonly ask Jay what they should look for if they think their

inkholes are no fun. Thankfully, Helicon Foundation Repair has solutions.

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property might have a sinkhole. He tells them: “There are several telltale signs. If your neighbors have confirmed sinkhole activity, you might have one, too. If doors or windows are binding or not opening/ closing properly, this could indicate a sinkhole problem. Or stair step cracking on the exterior of your home is another sign.”

after attending the University of Florida. From cleaning the job sites daily to helping customers with all their paperwork for the insurance and mortgage companies to taking care of landscaping, the Helicon professionals make the repair process “as painless as possible, “according to Jay.

Jay believes that customer service is one of his company’s great strengths. In fact, this is what led him to form the company

Most of Helicon’s work is in Hillsborough, but they travel to Hernando, Pasco, Polk, Citrus, Marion and other more distant

business focus » Helicon Foundation Repair Systems • 813-567-1065 • www.heliconfoundations.com

The experienced Helicon Foundation Repair Systems crews are trained and fully equipped to handle any size job. counties throughout Florida to rescue sinkhole properties. They specialize in compaction grouting, injection piers, helical piers, underpinning, house lifting & leveling, and emergency soil stabilization. Their company is located near the University of South Florida in a 10,000 square foot warehouse

experience certainly puts us a step above the others, not to mention our ‘perfect rating’ with the Better Business Bureau. We strive to be the best in every way possible.” Next, Jay says, “If you notice any of those possible sinkhole signs or if you suspect your property sits near a sinkhole, call us right away. The earlier a problem is detected, the less expensive repairs can be.” He explains that most homeowners’ insurance policies provide sinkhole coverage.”

Jay joined the Plant City Chamber of Commerce because his stepbrother, Grant Poling, who owns Mango Family Cleaners with Marc Poling, always kept Jay updated on the great events in our town. Helicon exhibited in the Plant City Expo, passing out yellow shopping bags that proved very popular. The Toblerone chocolate bars were For additional information, visit www. heliconfoundations.com or phone 813a hit, too. Jay was impressed with “all the friendly Plant City people” and “with how 567-1065. many Toblerone bars they ate.” In the end, the Helicon staff wants Homeowners to know, “We take care of Jay Silver has some good advice regarding your property as if it were our own. We sinkholes: “First,” he says, “it’s always unfortunate to discover sinkhole problems really care as much as you do.” on your property. So, it’s very important that customers choose a company with State of Florida License #CBC1255310 Hillsborough County Occupational License technical experience and superb customer Worker’s compensation, general liability, service capabilities. We believe Helicon business auto policies and warranty is the best in the business.” “Our years of

statements available upon request.

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

SEPTEMBER 18 & 24

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

SEPTEMBER 25

GEORGE GALFO’S MYSTICS

Original founding member, George Galfo brings his Mystics to the Red Rose Dining Room singing their hit song “Hushabye” and many more memorable Doo Wop favorites! DESTINY performs before and after the show.

OCTOBER 1

JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

OCTOBER 23

SOUL MUSIC NIGHT WITH THE LEGENDARY DELFONICS TRIBUTE AND ARTHUR “SUGAR BEAR” AIKEN

Featuring Grammy Nominated & Award Winning Music in one great night! The LEGENDARY DELFONICS TRIBUTE singing the hit –“La La Means I Love You,” plus much more, and lead singer of The Blue Notes, Arthur “Sugar Bear” Aiken. Hear songs like “If You Don’t Know Me By Now,” “The Love I Lost” & many more. Johnny Alston’s Motown Rock & Roll Revue will perform before and after the show in the Red Rose Ballroom.

OCTOBER 29

COVER TO COVER

A dynamite crowd pleaser! DESTINY performs before and after the show.

The band performs in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds before and after the show

OCTOBER 2 & 8

OCTOBER 30

NOVEMBER 19

DESTINY

Put on your dancing shoes as this band features adult contemporary music with tunes ranging from Jimmy Buffet to Ricky Martin.

NOVEMBER 20

“A NIGHT OF LEGENDS” SHIRLEY ALSTON REEVES AND BOBBY HENDRICKS

Shirley Alston Reeves, former lead of the Shirelles and Bobby Hendricks, formerly of Bill Pickney’s Original Drifters perform, plus PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds with Ken Brady of the original Casinos before and after the show in a Supper Club Atmosphere in the Ballroom.

NOVEMBER 26

DESTINY

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

Put on your dancing shoes as this band features adult contemporary music with tunes ranging from Jimmy Buffet to Ricky Martin.

OCTOBER 9

NOVEMBER 5 & 13

NOVEMBER 27 & DECEMBER 3

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

JOHNNY ALSTON’S

MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

A dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds also performs before and after the show.

OCTOBER 15 & 23

Johnny takes us back in time to an era of great sounds from the Motown period. No cover charge for show with dinner purchase

NOVEMBER 6

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

OCTOBER 16

COVER TO COVER

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

NOVEMBER 12

LOLA & THE SAINTS

Doo Wop At Its Best! Relive the 50s & 60s as though it was yesterday – “Forever in Love,” Just Over the Brooklyn Bridge.” PLUS P.J. LEARY & THE LAS VEGAS SOUNDS with special guest KEN BRADY (Lead Singer of The Casinos), featuring the 1967 hit “Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye” before and after the show in the Red Rose Dining Room.

OCTOBER 22

RICHIE MERRITT

Richie Merritt of the Marcels will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room with P.J. Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds.

The band performs in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Ralph Allocco & Second Wind before and after the show

NOVEMBER 13

“LET’S HANG ON” – A TRIBUTE TO FRANKIE VALLIE AND THE FOUR SEASONS

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

DECEMBER 4

GEORGE GALFO’S MYSTICS A CHRISTMAS SHOW

Bask in the spirit of the holidays when original founding member, George Galfo brings his Mystics to the Red Rose Dining Room singing the hits of the season and their hit song “Hushabye” plus many more memorable Doo Wop favorites! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

SHOW RESERVATIONS Please call for ticket prices. Shows in the Red Rose Ballroom are in a supper club atmosphere with a four course meal (seats also available for the show only – for a lower price!) NO COVER CHARGE for shows in the 5-Star Red Rose Dining Room with the purchase of dinner. Show Guests - inquire about our special room rates when staying overnight after a show!

Hear the hits from one of the 60’s top bands The Four Seasons!“Sherry,” “Ronnie,” “Walk Like a Man,” “Dawn,”“ Ragdoll,” “Let’s Hang On,” and many, many more. P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds open and close the show. This event benefits the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

TEL: 813.752.3141

I-4 Exit 21 • 2011 N. Wheeler St.• Plant City, FL 33563

WWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COM

Mrs. Evelyn Madonia - Owner/General Manager foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

business focus » Kazbor’s Grille • 2212 Jim Redman Parkway, plant city, fl • 813-752-2700

Kazbor’s Grille bar tender, Jennifer, serves drinks to patrons Sebastian and Jonathan. Jennifer has been a part of the Plant City Kazbor’s Grill team since it first opened.

Kazbor’s Grill

New menu and new owners make a great blend for mouth watering food, great drinks, friendly service and perfect family atmosphere. Kazbor’s Grille is now family owned and operated by Tom and Molly Dawson and their two sons, Kyle (age 27) and Andrew (age 22). The family isn’t afraid of hard work and will roll up their sleeves to engage in every aspect of successful restaurant management. The Dawson family is originally from Reno, Nevada. Several years ago they decided to relocate to the Crystal River area which is Molly’s hometown. With the move, Tom and Molly decided they wanted to come to the area and run a business. The restaurant was a great fit

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OUR SPECIALITY Your Appetite!

for their entire family and they fell in love with the idea that Plant City is a “southern town.” The family brings diverse business skills to Kazbor’s Grille which combined, ensure a successful business endeavor. Tom is a 30 year Professional Golfers Association (PGA) member. He has been a golf pro at private clubs and has been involved with hospitality and food service. In 2007, he qualified and played in the USGA Senior Open. Molly said, “For the first six holes Tom was in first place.” She continues, “Tom is the best at his job of anyone I have seen . . . club members loved him because he always made members have a happy experience. He wants to do that here as well.”

Plant City Kazbor’s Grille owners Tom and Molly Dawson and Their two sons, Andrew and Kyle.

business focus » Kazbor’s Grille • 2212 Jim Redman Parkway, plant city, fl • 813-752-2700

Kazbors waiting staff Kyle, Cristy, Megan, Briel, Brittany, Heather and Andrew

Locals Angie, Emma and Dalton Hunter enjoy a family night at Kazbor’s Molly tends to be more of the practical business manager of the restaurant. Tom says, “If Molly disappeared we would have to lock the doors. She runs the human resource arm of the Grille. She manages payroll, staffing and accounting.”

Kazbor’s Grille is a franchise sports bar with locations in Florida. The first Kazbor’s Grille was opened in Riverview, FL in 1997. The restaurant rapidly gained popularity and more locations were opened. With years of constant review and updating, Kazbor’s Grilles are perfected sports-themed restaurants, with seating for approximately 125 customers. There are now ten Kazbor’s Grille locations throughout Florida, including Plant City (www.kazborsgrille.com).

The Dawsons have spent a year getting their feet under them with their new Kazbor’s Grille business venture and have many reasons to be proud of their success. The Dawsons boast of their large and open dining room that can accommodate large groups. They have enjoyed accommodating In addition to the favorite tempting Kazbor’s Grille menu options, their menu many little league and softball teams after their games. will soon include three new items: Turkey

Kazbor’s Grille is a sports grill of many wanting good food and fun. Ranchero Wrap, Gyro’s and a Greek Salad. The restaurant also hosts special events like the Sunday “NFL Ticket”, Kids eat free on Tuesday nights, and All You Can Eat Wings for just $9.95 on Thursdays (Kazbor’s Grille has won the “Best Wing Review” from FOCUS Magazine for two years in a row).

is a game room full of fun for of all ages. Kazbor’s Grille in Plant City is the sports bar leader in great food and fun for the entire family!

The Plant City Kazbor’s Grille is located at 2212 Jim Redman Parkway. The telephone number is (813) 752-2700). Their hours of operation are Sunday -Thursday 11amGuests can enjoy an unlimited selection of 10pm and Friday-Satuday 11am-11pm appetizers, sandwiches, burgers, wraps, and more. In addition, there is a full-service bar located separate from the dining room to ensure a perfect family-friendly environment. Happy hour is every day from 3:00 – 7:00 pm. In addition, there foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

business focus » Mid Florida Dermatology Associates • 1-888-318-3183 • 710 E. Reynolds St., Plant City, 33563 • www.fldermdoc.com

Skin Cancer S

kin cancer can be one of the most easily treated forms of cancer or the most deadly. It can also be prevented. Mid Florida Dermatology Associates’ Registered Nurse Practitioner, Abigail Plum offers some critical information to help educate individuals about sun safety and disease prevention. According to Plum, “Everyone is at risk of skin cancer. However, there are factors associated with skin cancer that can heighten one’s risk.” Below is list of risk factors to consider:

1. Living in Florida, or other tropical regions, that receive high-intensity sunlight 2. Fair skin 3. Tendency to burn or freckle vs. tan 4. Five or more sunburns cause the risk of melanoma to double. “This is at any age . . . even if the sun damage took place 50 years ago,” according to Plum. 5. Exposure to artificial light (i.e. tanning beds – very high ultraviolet rays) 6. Family history – any relative, not just a close relative 7. Previously diagnosed with pre-cancerous lesions 8. Multiple moles (i.e. approx. 50) 9. Light hair and light eyes (i.e. Celtic look) 10. Screening and early detection is the key to treating cancer early and avoiding serious consequences, including death. Melanoma is almost always curable when

Are YOU At Risk??

detected early. Performing monthly skin exams is vital in early detection of skin cancer by enabling individuals to become familiar with pigment and mole changes. In addition, having a partner or spouse look at areas you can’t visualize (i.e. back, ears, scalp) is helpful. When performing a skin exam, look for changes and sizes in moles that include scaling, oozing, bleeding, itching, . . . basically anything that doesn’t look the same as last month. In addition, there are warning signs that can help people recognize the most lethal form of skin cancer. The warning signs are easy to remember as the ABCDE’s of Melanoma. A stands for Asymmetry – when one half of the mole does not match the other half B stands for Border – when the border or edges of the mole are ragged, blurred or irregular C stands for Color – when the color of the mole is not the same throughout or if it has shades of tan, brown, black, red, white or blue D stands for Diameter - when the diameter of a mole is larger than 6 mm, about the size of a pencil eraser (www. fldermdoc.com) E stands for Evolving – Any change in size, shape, color or elevation of a mole points to danger

ABCDE’s of Melanoma

Melanoma

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Skin type at higher risk for Melanoma

business focus » Mid Florida Dermatology Associates • 1-888-318-3183 • 710 E. Reynolds St., Plant City, 33563 • www.fldermdoc.com There are three types of skin cancers. Melanoma is the most serious and causes the most cases of death. Basal cell and squamous cell cancer are two other forms that have a lower likelihood of being fatal, but should still be taken very seriously. Prevention is a critical key in minimizing one’s risk of skin cancer. Prevention tips include avoiding sun exposure between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm, applying a minimum of SPF 30 before sun activity, and reapplying every 90 minutes or more frequently if sweating or using a towel to wipe off face or body. It is recommended that one ounce (shot glass size) is usually enough to cover the adult body. Also, wearing protective clothing including hats, long sleeve shirts and sunglasses is recommended.

While Mid Florida Dermatology Associates is located throughout central Florida, it is now opening its doors to Plant City and Tampa. Dr. Fitzgeraldo Sanchez and Registered Nurse Practitioner Abigail Plum head up both of these offices. Dr. Sanchez’s bio boasts of dermatopathology training at the Ackerman Academy of Dermatopathology in New York City. Prior to this he was a Smith Gibson research fellow at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. His undergraduate studies were performed at Boston College and Goshen College. Abigail Plum is a Registered Nurse Practitioner nationally certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Abigail previously worked as a nurse practitioner specializing in endocrinology. She received her Bachelor of Nursing Science from the University of Florida and a Masters in Nurse Science from the University of Florida in 2008.

Prevention and early detection of melanoma also includes yearly eye exams, as melanoma can form in the pigment of the eyes. Women should have annual gynecological exams that include screening According to Mid Florida Dermatology for skin cancer lesions. Associates, their mission is “to provide the highest quality medical care to the people It is recommended that individuals have a of central Florida. We are committed to head-to-toe skin exam by a well-trained, providing our patients with the most up experienced medical professional like to date medical technology. We strive the medical staff found at Mid Florida to provide first class customer service Dermatology Associates. Mid Florida and acknowledge that customer service Dermatology Associates was founded by determines our success. Patient care and Michael M. Gutierrez, M.D., and has been service is the priority of our physicians serving the needs of Central Floridians and staff. Our integrity will not be for over 20 years. Doctor Gutierrez is compromised (www.fldermdoc.com).” Board Certified in Dermatology and Dermatological Surgery. In addition, Dr. To learn more or to schedule an Guttierez was the Chief of Dermatology at appointment, call Mid Florida Florida Hospital from 2000 – 20003 and Dermatology Associates toll free at 1-888is currently on staff at Orlando Regional 318-3183 or visit their web site at www. Medical Center and the University of fldermdoc.com. They are conveniently Central Florida’s Medical Center. located at 710 East Reynolds Street, Plant City, 33563.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

basal cell

Abigail H. Plum, MSN, ARNP-BC

Fitzgeraldo A Sánchez, M.D. foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

business focus » O’Neal & Sons Upholstery • 2303 James Redman Parkway, Suite G, Plant City, FL 33563 • 813-752-0405

The staff includes James O’Neal, Ian Shaffer, Kim Rocha and Jason O’Neal.

O’Neal & Sons Upholstery O ’Neal & Sons Upholstery is a father and son owned and operated upholstery business located in Plant City. Father James O’Neal and son Jason O’Neal have a rich history of four generations and 70 years experience of upholstery in their family. Grandfather, Jack O’Neal began the family upholstery trade when he taught a class for aircraft upholstery for the war effort at Brewster vocational school in Tampa in the 1940’s. His class was made up of 40 women who were learning to sew. Jack O’Neal, Jr. taught at Leto High School in the 1970’s. James left the family upholstery trade for over 20 years when he worked for Moffitt

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Cancer Center after obtaining a Medical Clinical Laboratory Science Degree. Even though he was not working in the family trade, he kept a sewing machine and did some contract work from home. Son Jason spent time learning the upholstery business with his dad at home and decided that he wanted to pursue owning a business dedicated to upholstery. James knew the best way for Jason to be successful was for him to open his own shop and dive into it 100%. That was the beginning of James and Jason continuing the generation of upholstery craftsman by creating O’Neal & Sons Upholstery (2303 James Redman Parkway, Suite G). Rounding out the team is Miss Kim Rocha who is the office manager. A new addition to the team is

specializing in custom upholstery

Jamie O’Neal. He has been working in the increase in requests for marine work with field for 35 yeas now, mostly in the Tampa Bimini tops and seat upholstery (www. area. His expertise and knowledge are a onealandsons.net). valuable asset. The O’Neal & Sons Upholstery beautiful craftsmanship includes the following line O’Neal & Sons Upholstery specializes in custom upholstery for many different of high quality products: applications. According to James, “We do everything, not just vehicles. We upholster Automobile: seats, carpets, headliners, motorcycles, jet skis, golf carts, and more.” door panels, toneau covers (car and In fact, O’Neal & Sons boasts working on truck), vinyl tops, convertible tops and full a variety of automobiles from model T’s restoration for cars and trucks from new to to Porsches, Corvettes to classics. They antiques. create custom furniture for homes and offices. They’ve also done work for HBO Marine: boat seats, carpets, side panels, movies. They’ve had customers requesting bimini tops, and they can work on any size boat from seat cushion to restoration of upholstery for their 58 and 59 Cadillac’s from Belgium. Recently, they have had an yacht interior.

business focus » O’Neal & Sons Upholstery • 2303 James Redman Parkway, Suite G, Plant City, FL 33563 • 813-752-0405 Furniture: couches, chairs, loveseats, bar stools, patio furniture, and commercial applications including restaurant booths, chairs, and bar railings. Around the Tampa Bay area, O’Neal & Son’s Upholstery’s quality craftsmanship can be seen at the monthly Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce car show (3rd Saturday in McCall Park, downtown Plant City), at Moffitt Cancer Center and restaurants including Taco Bell in Plant City, Lenny’s Latin Café in Temple Terrace, Ruben’s Cubans in Temple Terrace, and The Wolf Dan’s Restaurant in Wesley Chapel. In addition, they have done upholstery work on wheelchairs for AAA Medical.

treating every customer fairly and offering the best possible pricing. In fact, according to O’Neal & Sons, “We are a family owned business serving the Plant City, Brandon, Tampa and Lakeland area. We believe that if you treat people fairly and honestly you’ll get their business. Also, if you provide the highest quality craftsmanship people will tell others and your business will grow. In order for us to succeed we believe our customers will be our best resource (www. onealandsons.net).” O’Neal & Sons Upholstery is located at 2303 James Redman Parkway, Suite G, Plant City, FL 33563. They can also be reached by phone at (813) 752-0405 or via email at onealandsons@verizon.net.

With all of the partnerships and long line of products available to their customers, O’Neal & Sons Upholstery is dedicated to

BEFORE

This design is a victorian style roll and pleat with buttons in a tapestry material. There were other chairs in the set as well. The owner of the furniture has 22 rooms in his house full of antiques that he has been collecting for years and until now did not know anyone who could reupholster them.

AFTER

The picture of Jack O’Neal-was taken on Sept. 10th 1942. Jack O’Neal instructed a class at Brewster Vocational School on aircraft fabric. Back then they would use material on the wings of airplanes because this was around the World War II era.

BEFORE

These seat belong to an F-150 truck. O’Neal reupholstered everything (seats, carpet, headliner, dash, and door panels). They also changed the design of the seats by adding more foam so the seat felt like it was hugging the person in it.

AFTER foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

business focus » Dr. Steve Smith, MD • 866-696-3847 • www.SteveSmithMD.com

Jewell, natalie, Dr. Smith, Janet, and Dee

Good Health Starts O ne of Plant City’s most highlyrespected physicians, Steve Smith, MD, will be practicing more personalized, preventive medicine. Due to the changes taking place in our healthcare environment, being able to have a personal physician who you are guaranteed to see at every appointment has become increasingly difficult, but not for patients of Dr. Smith. He has affiliated with MDVIP, the national leader of personalized, preventive primary care - the type of care that improves people’s lives, not just their symptoms.

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

“The health and wellness of my patients is my top priority. Being an MDVIPaffiliated physician provides me with the time to go beyond just diagnosing and treating illness; I’m able to evaluate my patients’ lifestyles and identify early risk factors for problems that may lie ahead,” said Dr. Smith. Patients who enroll in Dr. Smith’s practice will receive a more thorough, annual physical that includes extensive lab work, diagnostic tests and lifestyle assessments as well as a customized wellness plan. Additionally, patients will enjoy the convenience of reaching Dr. Smith 24/7 via his personal phone numbers and secure email; they will

With a Great Doctor be able to make same-day and next-day appointments that will start on time; and most importantly, they will be cared for by a physician who has been carefully selected from among the finest primary care doctors in the country. Less than one in every 100 physicians qualify for affiliation with MDVIP. Dr. Smith added, “Being able to take a more proactive approach to medicine will help my patients stay happy and healthy, and there nothing is more rewarding to me.” In order to provide this higher level of preventive care and create closer doctor-patient relationships, Dr. Smith

is limiting his MDVIP-affiliated practice to a maximum of 400 to 600 patients, as compared to traditional offices with 2,000 to 2,500 patients. These smaller, more intimate settings provide patients with an enhanced service experience and exceptional, individualized care and attention. Members of Dr. Smith’s practice will have time to talk about concerns that go way beyond what brings them into the office, including what’s going on in their lives that could be impacting their health. No visit is over until the last question is answered. With fewer patients, Dr. Smith also has more time to personally coordinate specialty care and help his

business focus » Dr. Steve Smith, MD • 866-696-3847 • www.SteveSmithMD.com

Dr. Smith with Mr. Robert Edwards members navigate the sometimes stressful and complex healthcare system. The MDVIP model of care does not replace health insurance. Patients will continue to use their health benefits coverage for all services beyond the annual, comprehensive physical. Dr. Smith accepts Medicare and most other insurance. Prevention truly is the best medicine, and MDVIP-affiliated physicians are proving it. Results show that patients in MDVIPaffiliated practices are admitted to the hospital 61 to 74 percent less than those in traditional primary care practices, and overall patient satisfaction exceeds 96 percent. Bernard Kaminetsky, M.D., of Florida was one of the first doctors to join the MDVIP national network and currently serves as the organization’s medical director. “Typically medicine is geared towards treating illness, but when patients have a close partnership with their physician and don’t feel rushed, they provide more

Dr. Smith with Mrs. Pat Edwards

information. And being armed with more information enables doctors to more readily address small problems before they become big ones,” said Dr. Kaminetsky. In the next few years, it is expected that an additional 31 million currently uninsured Americans will enter the healthcare system forcing patients to wait longer for appointments, and the appointments will most likely be with a nurse practitioner or physician assistant, not their doctor. If you are looking for a personal relationship with a primary care physician who has the time to put your needs first and be your health and wellness partner, Dr. Smith may be your doctor – the one who can help you lead a healthier, more vibrant life. Dr. Smith’s MDVIP-affiliated practice opens on September 14, 2010, and he is accepting new patients. For more information or to meet with Dr. Smith for a complimentary health and wellness consultation, call (866) 696-3847 or visit www.SteveSmithMD.com. foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

business » edward jones

Avoid Dangers of “Over-concentration” W submitted By: edward jones

813-754-1212 116 W. Alsobrook Street Plant City, Fl 33563

B-C Corral CENTRAL FLORIDA’S WESTERN WEAR HEADQUATERS Boots • Shirts • Blouses • Jackets • Jeans • Dresses Hats • Moccasins • Belts & Accessories

(863) 666-2200

4509 HIGHWAY 92, EAST (between Lakeland & Auburndale) Open: Mon - Sat 9:30 AM - 6 PM, Sun 12 noon - 5 PM

hen you were in school, you had to concentrate on your studies. When you began your career, you had to concentrate on your work. In fact, in just about every endeavor in life, concentration is essential for success. However, as an investor, you may find that you actually don’t want to concentrate too much. That’s not to say you shouldn’t concentrate on your investment decisions — you should. But if you concentrate too much money in one investment, or one type of investment, you could run into problems. Suppose, for example, that your portfolio is almost entirely devoted to growth stocks. During a good economy, growth stocks generally tend to do well, so if we’re enjoying a period of sustained growth, your portfolio might show some good returns. But if the economy slumps while you own only growth stocks, you could sustain losses that may take a long time from which to recover. On the other hand, if you over-concentrate on fixed-income investments, such as bonds, your principal value might increase when interest rates are falling (as interest rates and bond prices are inversely related), but when interest rates rise, your bond portfolio will likely lose principal value. To help avoid the problems of overconcentration, it’s important to own a range of investments, which may include stocks, bonds, government securities and certificates of deposit (CDs). While this type of diversification cannot, by itself, guarantee a profit or protect against loss, it can help reduce the effects of volatility on your portfolio. Of course, how you choose to allocate your assets will depend on a variety of factors, including the following:

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

* Your goals — Your ultimate objectives should help govern your investment strategy. If you are planning to retire early and then start a new business, you may need to invest more aggressively than, say, your neighbor, who wants to work as long as possible and then stay close to home, pursuing inexpensive hobbies. * Your risk tolerance — Just as we all have different personalities, we have different tolerances for investment risk. If you can assume greater risk in exchange for potentially higher returns, you may be a more aggressive investor. Conversely, if you’re willing to take lower returns as a trade-off for greater protection of your principal, you’re probably a more conservative investor. However, to achieve your goals, you may consider moving outside your investment “comfort zone” from time to time. * Your time horizon — Your stage of life will also affect your investment choices. If you are just starting your career, you can probably afford to invest more aggressively than if you are nearing retirement, at which time you may want to cut down on risks. To build a diversified portfolio that reflects your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon, you may want to work with a professional financial advisor — someone who can assess your situation and recommend choices that are appropriate for your needs. By concentrating on a unified investment strategy — instead of over-concentrating on a specific type of investment — you can focus on where you want to go and what you need to do to get there.

MARKLEY CHIROPRACTIC Dr. Guy Markley • Dr. Robyn Markley • Judy Markley A.P.

Care For All Ages CHIROPRACTIC:

- Back pain and Headaches - Sports/exercise injuries - Arm and leg pain - Auto injury - Many aging problems - Whole food nutrition - Pregnant women and children welcome

ACUPUNCTURE:

- Sciatica - Shoulder/knee pain - Allergies - Nutritional testing/ counseling - Weight loss

1802 W. Baker Street. Plant City, Florida. 752-6001 Monday -Friday 9 am-1 pm; 3 pm-6 pm

www.markleychiropractic.com

Back Row: Judy Markley A.P., Dr. Guy Markley, Dr. Robyn Markley-McGarry, Front Row: Julie Pippin C.A., Donna Pettit C.A., Vicki Hutcheson C.A.

Hut No. 8 Valrico

THE BRANDON AREA’S PREMIER NEW AND RESALE CLOTHING STORE

NOW OPEN! Hut No. 8 buys and sells brand name clothes, shoes and accessories for teen and young adult guys and girls.

Monday - Saturday 10 to 8 and Sunday 12 to 6 3448 Lithia Pinecrest Rd Valrico, FL 33596,

813-689-0111 • www.hut8valrico.com

located one block south of Bloomingdale in the Stein Mart shopping plaza

CASH FOR CLOTHES

Bring in this ad or mention ad for

%off Total purchase Hut 8 • 3448 Lithia Pinecrest Rd Valrico, FL 33596, 813-689-0111 Expires 10/31/2010

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

business » success

Tony DeFrancesco Tony D’s Garage Door Service » How did you get into this business?

First impressions count, especially when it comes to your work wardrobe. We’re a Sanitone® Certified Master Dry Cleaner, which means we have the high standards for detail and finish that will keep your clothes looking great day after day. Our exclusive cleaning process has been trusted by leading designers for over 75 years. Trust Myers Cleaners with your business clothes. We’ll show you the difference.

Free Pick-up & Delivery

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Forty-two years ago in a little town near Pittsburgh, PA called McKeesport is where it all began. Fresh out of the US Navy I found a service position open with an electrical contractor who worked on garage doors. Over the years the garage door industry has changed from one piece doors (called chin busters) to doors that folded into two pieces, and so forth. Doors have continued to change rapidly. Wood doors were the hot sale then, now they are steel hurricane coded and carriage house doors that can withstand 160 mph winds. Back then, my training was just beginning.

» What inspires you?

A renewed faith in God and my wife, Susan, are the reason I am successful today. With their support and trust in me, all is possible.

» What are your greatest successes?

I enjoy working with customers and meeting any challenge head on. If someone were to say it can’t be done, I will do my very best to make it happen. I don’t like to use the “R” word, although I would like to scale down a little and enjoy my family and do some overseas traveling with Susan.

» What are your aspirations? » What do you have planned My grandparents and parents instilled for your future? the highest work ethics in me early in life. Treat customers as you want to be treated was always the best way to get things done and done right. If only more companies would practice this, just think where we could be. I’d have to say that my greatest aspiration is to give the best customer serve I can.

Tony D’s Garage Doors is still growing every day. Taking care of customers is and always will be my #1 objective. The customers that I have serviced over the years are very important to my growing success and I will continue to keep their doors operational with repairs, garage door openers, and outstanding professional service. Advice is free when you call Tony D!

business » success

Animal Wellness Center Halloween Party Join us for our first Halloween Party! Thursday, October 21, 2010 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Dan Manfre ALLCARE REHABILITATION CELEBRATES ITS 20th ANNIVERSARY » Background:

Dan Manfre grew up in Long Island New York and left home at 18 years of age to attend college at the University of South Florida. There he received his Biology Degree. He then went on to study Physical therapy at the University of Miami. Dan became interested in Physical Therapy as a career after volunteering at various inpatient and outpatient facilities where he had seen the positive impact physical therapy could have on people’s lives.

his children to be able to attend school and not have the financial burdens that he had to deal with throughout his educational years. Dan is currently a member of the Rotary Club, attends the Evangelical Presbyterian Church where he has served as a Deacon and is currently an Elder. He and his wife Julie have been married for 22 years and have three children. Scott who is 20 years old and is in his Junior year at USF, Jake 17, a PCHS Senior, and Carly 15, a PCHS Sophomore.

» Future:

Dan said he is very passionate about the work he does as a physical therapist and Dan is very much a family man and is both he and his family love living in Plant involved with his community. Starting City where they have made many friends with his first facility, which was originally over the years. The satisfaction of helping known as the Plant City Rehabilitation people regain their normal physical Center, he soon was running three capabilities while making many friends physical therapy centers. This led for along the way has been a great experience. the need to rename the business, Allcare Allcare Rehabilitation is a fully equipped Rehabilitation. Dan discovered that facility with state of the art rehabilitation growing his practice was taking too equipment. Dan says that the Aquatic much valuable time away from his family therapy programs in the temperatureand other priorities, which led him to controlled pool are one of the best catalysts concentrate on one facility here in Plant for rapidly restoring function early on in City. a patients treatment program. Allcare is celebrating their 20 year Anniversary. For more information on the physical therapy programs available at Allcare Dan said that his mother and father taught Rehabilitation you can stop by and visit him about strong family values, setting them at 1214 W. Reynolds Street (Suite 1) goals and working hard to achieve them. or call them at 754 – 1062 between 8am Playing sports reinforced those values, and 5pm. but also taught him the importance of teamwork and perseverance. Dan wanted

» Aspirations:

» Inspirations:

icture p y k o o sp Have a ith your pet taken w Tricks ‘n Treats for the 4-legged “kids” Costumes encouraged for all

Refr for th eshments e par ents Goodie ba gs for t he 2-legged kids rizes P r o o D Representatives from Hillsborough County Animal Services will be on-site with adoptable adopta table animals ta

Animal Wellness Center OF PLANT CITY Hours: Mon - Fri: 7:30am - 5:30pm

Try our convenient Drop Off service!

3109 SR 574 West (813) 752-2869

Find us on Facebook! • www.animalwellnesspc.com Dr. Jennifer Conner

CHANGE YOUR BODY KEEP YOUR CHANGE! KEVIN DONOFRIO.................OWNER VICTOR RAMIREZ...CLUB MANAGER

1418 South Evers St. (behind Big Lots)

813 717-7773 ENROLL ONLINE TODAY!

ﬁtnessfor10.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

American Auto Repair and Service “Where We Treat Your Car As If It Was Our Own”

Complete Auto Service Center

A/C Service $34.95 Includes 1 lb 134A Freon Fuel Injection Flush $99.95 Auto Transmission Service Flush & Filter Change $149.95 & up 4 Wheel Alignment $59.95 Tires, Wheels & Much More. Free Alignment with 4 New Tires

All Major Brands Of Tires

pen at O w o N

Oil Change, Lube, & Filter for Diesel

tion! a c o l New

$99.95

9035 Woodrow Wilson St • Plant City, Fl 33563 • Hours Of Operation: Mon. - Fri 7:00am to 5:30pm

(813)-752-6729

Se Habla Espanol

180 bed nursing and rehabilitation center Physical, occupational, and speech therapists State-of-the-art 5,000 square foot therapy gym

The Health Center of Plant City 701 N. Wilder rd.

813-752-3611

WWW.healthceNterofplaNtcity.com 70

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Now Accepting

PERSONAL TRAINING STUDIO

KIDS SPECIFIC SPORTS TRAINING N E P O BASEBALL • FOOTBALL • SOCCER • BASKETBALL NOWin y t i C t n a l P n w o t Down 117 E Reynolds St BUILD CONFIDENCE, AGILITY, CONDITIONING & OVERALL FITNESS

NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS KIDS • ADULTS • SENIORS

813-786-1541 B & E UPHOLSTERY Next to Amazing Autos

HEADLINERS - 90

MOST CARS

Vinyl • Leather • Cloth Repair • Auto Carpet Installed • Furniture • Cars • Trucks Boats • Airplanes • RVs • Cycle Seats • Power Windows Repaired Best Prices in Town!

In This Economy - make Your Auto Look New And Put Your Extra Savings in the Bank

618 S. Collins

813-850-3795 35 years experience - All work guaranteed

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

DEDICATED TO THE VALUE OF HOME AND FAMILY

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

Jimmie Robinson - 813-754-3586 ext 222

1513 J. L. Redman Pkwy Plant City, FL 33563

www.ﬂoridamoves.com/jimmie.robinson

E-mail: Jimmie.Robinson@floridamoves.com • toll free 1-877-442-7001

COMMERCIAL

208 COLLINS ST

4405 BUSINESS LN

8604 SLIGH AVE

18,786 SF historic office building-$949,000. MLS#T2426002.

3236 SF block office building convenient to I-4. Only $179,900. MLS#T2434858.

6200+ SF commercial building situated on 5+ acres off of Turkey Creek Rd. $600,000. MLS#T2434158.

1508 SAMMONDS RD 4675 SF warehouse building built in 2005$600,000. MLS#T2424376.

LAND ZEPHYRHILLS

FORBES RD

2905 S FRONTAGE RD

208 E TERRACE DR

20+ acres-$250,000. MLS#T2385378

20+ acres-$650,000. MLS#T2423651

8 acres w/home-$300,000. MLS#T2390805

7109 KINARD RD

5904 PAUL BUCHMAN

CAMERON RD

20+ acres w/1520 SF building-$1,300,000. MLS#T2386723

60+ acres-$1,200,000. MLS#T2399075

20+ acres-Now $299,500. MLS#T2425622.

Fenced 5 acres w/grandfather oaks. Reduced to $149,000. MLS#T2403156

902 W MLK BLVD 4000 SF warehouse-$310,000. MLS#T2400242

ACREAGE LOTS IN ALAFIA RIDGE Four 5+ acre lots to choose from in gated community-area of fine homes south of town. $139,000 and up.

HOMES

LAKE LOUISA, CLERMONT

901 PINEDALE

1633 EAGLES GREEN #17

Unique two-story 4 BR/3 BA with over 4000 SF living, screened pool area w/grill area, formal living areas and very open floor plan. All on a 1/2 acre landscaped lot in wonderful family subdivision with no HOA fees. Reduced to under appraised value-$255,900. MLS# T2388714.

Recently remodeled 4/2 lake house w/over 2400 SF living, newer roof, septic, flooring and A/C plus double boathouse with lifts. Your own personal getaway-$499,900. MLS#T2423081.

Walden Lake-2/2 condo located on the golf course and conservation area. Updated kitchen and bath, new wood flooring, screen porch and open floor plan. Now $110,000. MLS#T2381230.

2104 S FORBES RD Neat and clean 3 BR/2.5 BA home on 1+ acres with fireplace, volume ceilings, great room PLUS a garage ready for all the toys! Now only $238,090. MLS#T2422795.

1504 PINEDALE MEADOWS Neat and clean two-story 3 BR/2.5 BA +upstairs office with over 1900 SF living and situated on a cul-de-sac with nice landscaped yard. $174,900. MLS#T2429521.

Two homes for the price of one on 1+ acremain home is 3BR/2BA/2CG w/1400 SF and 2nd home is 1BR/1BA w/carport. Pool area between homes. $225,000. MLS#T2388754.

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

528 HALF MILE RD

908 N COLLINS ST 4/3.5 built in 2005 and situated on the brick streets of Plant City. Energy efficient home has granite countertops, balcony off master and 2576 SF living. $274,500. MLS#T2423487.

608 N ALEXANDER ST 4938 SF office building ready for your business and convenient to hospital and downtown-Reduced to $325,000 MLS#T2330860

WELCOME NEW AGENTS! The Plant City office of Coldwell Banker extends a big welcome to Jim Talley and Leslie Ivory. Both Jim and Leslie live in Plant City and are well-versed in our market. We are excited to have them on board and they are both eager to help you with your real estate needs…call them today! Jim: 813-431-4930, Leslie: 813-493-5868.

GREAT, SMALL NEIGHBORHOOD

Well cared for home with immediate occupancy. Appx. 5 year old roof, full cabinets in the garage for lots of storage. Wood burning fireplace in living room, French doors from kitchen, living room and master to L shaped screened patio Parquet wood floors throughout except ceramic tile in wet areas. Large walk-in closet in master bedroom with double vanity, a whirlpool tub and separate shower. Home Warranty included. This 2/2 is priced to sell! Call Jean Bridgmon, 813-478-3107. MLS #T2429843. $117,500 ALSO: Walden Lake: Must sell this 3/2, bank is ready to approve! MLS #T2388350. $132,900

CLASSIC IN FAIRWAY WOODS!

Custom 4BR/2.5BA/3CG over 3000 sq.ft of living area. Formal living/ dining, open kitchen/family room. Updated kitchen, wood floors, resort style pool and lanai with pavers. Oversized .37 acre lot with golf course views. Offered at $350.000. Call Maddie Alford to preview 813-382-8382.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED!

This lovely home features a split plan, with formal dining and living room. Triple sliders show off the beautiful pool and lanai. Entertain in comfort - the outdoor kitchen has it all: counter w/ plenty of work space, cabinets for storage, ice maker, sink and built-in stainless grill. New brick pavers on the pool deck and all new screening complete w/a 5 yr warranty. The master suite is super sized w/ doors leading to the lanai. Two large closets designed by California Closets give you a place for everything. The spacious bath boasts split vanities, plenty of storage, garden tub, and large separate shower. Located in the desirable gated community of Walden Lake, the amenities are endless. See this beautiful home today! Call Malissa Crawford, 813-967-0168. MLS #T2436242. $194,000.

SOUTHERN JEWEL

This great-room style home boasts a 26’x35’ living area including a fireplace, wall away sliding glass doors that overlook a sparkling pool. Entertain and relax on your 33’x44’ screened lanai while viewing your gorgeous landscaped backyard! Abundant storage and split plan are just a few of it’s great features. 3 car attached garage, and an add’l 2 car detached garage with workshop and a private full bath. Finally room for the toys and a place to park your cars! Open kitchen features built-in oven, microwave, cooktop, dishwasher and side-by-side refrigerator. Call Cheryl McDaniel for more details 813-758-1429. MLS #T2435465. $239,000.

Call us for your Residential and Commercial Real Estate needs

1513 Jim Redman Parkway, Plant City 813-754-3586 www.floridamoves.com/plantcity

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

By Linda

Weekly • Bi-Weekly • Monthly • One Time Cleans

813-719-7642

Licensed • Insured • Industrial • Residential foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

813.707.6200 Hello –

d past our current an of l al to u yo simply thank success would d an I want to say th ow gr r t you, ou clients. Withou . not be possible provide owing that we kn T H G I N T A er that L r clients wheth WE SLEEP WEL ou r fo th u tr t hones solution nothing but the or an alternate ny pa om c r ou r the means a loan fo at is right for h w g in do By . gst any rvices est rates amon w lo without our se e th e av h e suring w on model, customer and en cost distributi er w lo r ou gh throu economy. lender or bank to thrive in this le ab en be e av we h w home or rchase of a ne pu a ng ri de si giving us a on If you are c please consider e, ag tg or m ng ti arantee is s different. I gu reﬁnancing an ex u es ak m at h w thand call to see ﬁrs ed. t be disappoint that you will no

Nate Davis

Natasha Davis

President- Loan Ofﬁcer

Vice President- Ofﬁce Manager

Cheryl Carlisle

Carol Barton

Processor

Nate Davis President tgage Corp Plant City Mor Jaida & Paitlyn Davis Ofﬁce Assistants

Paul Pritt

Loan Ofﬁcer

Barbara Hall Loan Ofﬁcer

Jenifer Bishop Loan Ofﬁcer

Rick Norman Loan Ofﬁcer

Don Scarmuzzi Loan Ofﬁcer

• FHA • Conventional Financing • USDA • Low down payment 5% Down 100% financing 30 year fixed rate Guaranteed Best Rates Available No Down Payment Perfect credit not required No Monthly Mortgage Insurance Seller can pay closing cost • 1st Time Home Buyers tax credit 30 year fixed rate May finance closing costs

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Security

VA No Down Payment No Monthly Mortgage Insurance Best Rates Available

WWW.PLANTCITYMORTGAGES.COM 74

Buster Davis

real estate » walden lake

APARTMENTS FOR THE ELDERLY

One bedroom Apartments • Rent based on income

Plant City Towers Plant City Living Center

Walden Lake T

he Walden Lake Community Association Board Meetings are the third Monday of each month. The next meeting will be September 20th at 6:00 PM at the Walden Lake HOA office building on Griffin Boulevard in Walden Lake. The meeting is open to all residents interested in attending. There will be a President’s meeting on Tuesday, September 28th at 7:00 PM at the Walden Lake HOA office. The Board is planning to have an Open House of the new office buildings along with the Dog Park Howl-O-Ween Party on Saturday, October 23rd. The time of the event will be announced soon and will be available on the Walden Lake website, www.waldenlake.org. The party will be held in the area of the Dog Park and is open for all Walden Lake Dogs and children. There will be goodie bags and prizes for best costumes. The dead trees along the medians are now being taken down by the City of Plant City. Please be sure that your July HOA dues and any pre-lien fees have been received by September 17th. If payment is not received by then, your account will be turned over to the attorney and additional fees will be added to what is already owed.

Review submitted By: natalie sweet

You should have received the notice of the July dues in June. The WLCA Board is on a mission to standardize the HOA documents in all or most of the neighborhoods. At the President’s meeting, a copy of the new documents will be reviewed to get input from the Presidents of each of the neighborhoods for a final draft.

405 E. Damon St Plant City, FL 33563 813.659.2669

103 W. Mahoney St. Plant City, FL 33563 813.752.5116

Applications available at each location MeyersPrintShack@gmail.com Brent - Paula - Hayley - Jay

813-967-1942 813-365-0960

Associa recently purchased Rampart and is the new management company for Walden Lake. At this time, there are no changes in business as all of the same staff is in place. The Bloodmobile will be at Walden Lake Golf & Country Club on October 2nd from 8:00 AM to noon and is open to all who wish to donate. Kids play golf for free with a paying adult after 3:00 on Monday thru Friday until September 30th. Walden Lake Golf & Country Club is now booking golf tournaments and holiday parties for the upcoming season. They recommend booking early to be sure your date is available. Call 752-1171, extension 222 and speak to Tracey to schedule. Friday nights at the Club is Happy Hour from 6-9 and drinks are 2 for 1. There is also an assortment of hot and cold hor d’ourves if you wish to participate in for $6 per person.

CUSTOM

T-SHIRTS

FOR CHURCH - SCHOOL - WORK - TEAM OR JUST FOR FUN! SCREEN PRINTING, RHINESTONE DESIGNS AND EMBROIDERY

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

E S T A B L I S H E D

M A R C H

1 9 9 6

Plant City CANCER TREATMENT CENTER

real estate » mortgage

(Adjacent to the main entrance of the hospital)

■ Advanced Modern Technology

Randy V. Heysek M.D., F.A.C.R.O. Board Certified in Radiation Oncology

■ Cancer Care Close to Home ■ Prostate Seed Implants ■ Medicare, Medicaid, Most HMO’s

Kathryn L. Kepes, M.D., F.A.C.R.O.

■ CT Simulation ■ 3-D Conformal Therapy ■ Intensity Modulated Radio Therapy

Board Certified in Radiation Oncology, Internal Medicine & Medical Oncology Co. Director

■ Breast Brachy Therapy

ALL AVAILABLE THROUGH THE CENTER 303 North Alexander Street, Call 813-719-7705 for appts/consultations

Historically Low and the “CASH IN” refinance Rates Y submitted By: nate davis

Multiple Policies. One agent. Multiple Policies. I can help you save time & money. One agent for all your insurance needs saves time. And Allstate’s One agent. multi-policy discounts are an easy way to save money. For affordable protection for your car, boat, motorcycle and more, call me first. I can help you save time & money. One agent for all your insurance needs saves time. And Allstate’s multi-policy discounts are CORNETT an easy way to MARK save money. For affordable (813) 754-2277 protection for your car, boat, motorcycle and 1701 N ALEXANDER STREET more, call me first.

MARK CORNETT (813) 754-2277

PLANT CITY a057460@allstate.com

1701 N ALEXANDER STREET PLANT CITY a057460@allstate.com

ou have read it in the paper, and seen it mentioned on the news, but now you will hear it from an insider. Mortgage interest rates truly are at historic lows. Our office has recently quoted 15 year fixed rate mortgages at 3.75%, and 30 year rates in the low 4’s. If you are part of the select few that actually have equity you can take advantage of these historically low rates without bringing money to closing. Another option is what has been coined a “cash in” refinance. This occurs when a borrower brings money to the closing for the refinance which was previously almost unheard of. The funds brought to the closing are being used to pay down the existing mortgage to a point where the home has the required equity for today’s lower rates and to pay for closing costs. Some borrowers feel that they can get a better/safer return on their money by using their investment funds to allow them to secure a lower interest rate on their mortgage.

» Example and discounts subjectand to Casualty terms, conditions Insurance and discounts subject to terms, conditions Insurance and availability. Allstate Property andInsurance availability. Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company: Northbrook, Illinois © 2010 Allstate Company. Insurance Company: Northbrook, Illinois © 2010 Allstate Insurance Company.

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Current Mortgage Mortgage Value Mortgage Rate

$200,000 $190,000 6.25%

30 yr Monthly Payment Investment rate of return

$1,231 6%

Example New Loan has $4,000 in closing costs and requires 20% equity in the home to qualify for the new lower rates

» New Mortgage Max Loan Amount (80% of value) = 80% x 190,000 = 152,000 Amount to bring to closing (200,000152,000)+ 4,000 = 52000 New Rate = 4.25% New Mortgage Balance = 152,000 New Monthly Payment = 747.75 By Paying off the difference between the actual loan amounts of 48,000 (200,000152,000) at 6.25% and also considering the closing costs which allowed the remaining balance to be reduced to a lower rate, your initial investments return is approx: 11.6% In short, investing your funds into your home mortgage, may be a great option to consider if equity is what is preventing you from taking advantage of today’s low rates. As always, be sure to consult with your tax advisor on the tax implications as well .

Team Wainoris ...Selling Hillsborough and Polk Multi-Million Dollar Producers

sellmyhome@tampabay.rr.com | www.teamwainoris.com

Randall Wainoris 813-997-3000 REALTOR®/Attorney at Law

Kathleen Wainoris 863-608-1557 REALTOR® Notary

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WALDEN LAKE TWO STORY POOL HOME 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with upstairs loft overlooking great room. Beautiful stained wood staircase, family room with ﬁreplace and so much more. Short sale: bank approved price of just $149,900.

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LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION! Large manufactured home on over a beautiful acre of completely fenced level property just minutes form I-4. Newer a/c, maintenance free metal roof, large master suite with dual sinks and garden tub. Bring the family and bring the pets! Asking just $89,900.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

real estate » jo-ann lusk

HOME MARKETING T

tips

submitted By: jo-ann lusk

hinking about selling your home? Here are some valuable tips; things to do before you call a Realtor. There are many things to consider, but these are the easy things you can do to get your home sold: 1. Have a pre-sale home inspection. Be proactive by arranging for a pre-sale home inspection. An inspector will be able to give you a good indication of the trouble areas that will stand out to potential buyers, and you’ll be able to make repairs before open houses begin. 2. Organize and clean. Pare down clutter and pack up your least-used items, such as large blenders and other kitchen tools, out-of-season clothes, toys, and exercise equipment. Store items off-site or in boxes neatly arranged in the garage or basement. Clean the windows, carpets, walls, lighting fixtures, and baseboards to make the house shine. 3. Get replacement estimates. Do you have big-ticket items that are worn our or will need to be replaced soon, such your roof or carpeting? Get estimates on how much it would cost to replace them, even if you don’t plan to do it yourself. The figures will help buyers determine if they can afford the home, and will be handy when negotiations begin. 4. Find your warranties. Gather up the warranties, guarantees, and user manuals

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

for the furnace, washer and dryer, dishwasher, and any other items that will remain with the house. 5. Spruce up the curb appeal. Pretend you’re a buyer and stand outside of your home. As you approach the front door, what is your impression of the property? Do the lawn and bushes look neatly manicured? Is the address clearly visible? Are pretty flowers or plants framing the entrance? Is the walkway free from cracks and impediments? In Plant City, the average 3-4 bedroom, 2-3 bath home is listed on the market for an average price of $227,000 (as of July 2010). You are competing with more than 300 homes that could be similar to yours. The average sold price of these homes as of July was $140,000. That’s also an average square foot price of $77.00 per sq. ft. What this means for today’s seller is that: 1) You should be motivated to sell for the right reason. If you’re “testing” the market, then you need at minimum a 2-year listing agreement. 2) Get as much marketing exposure as possible. More than 87% of buyers start their home search on the internet, and buyers like to look at pictures. 3) Talk to your Realtor about what you need to do to give your home that WOW factor; what is going to make your home competitive in this market? As challenging as it seems, homes are selling everyday. Be patient and be informed. Good luck!

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This 4 Bdr, 3 1/2 Ba Golf Course home features gleaming cherry & bamboo ﬂooring. Split plan w/gorgeous his & hers master bathrooms w/natural stone, granite, & modern design. Huge backyard & lanai w/outdoor bar area, grill & sink. $217,500.

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Enjoy the peace and quiet at the end of a culde-sac in this fabulous 4 Bdr 2 Bath Walden Lake pool home, featuring formal living/ dining room and family room off the kitchen. $169,900

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This beautiful 1940’s bungalow has been completely remodeled with modern amenities. Classic brick paver circle drive w/lush landscaping sets the tone. Home features timeless hardwood ﬂoors, faux ﬁreplace, modern kitchen & master bath, fenced back yard w/brick paved path & Pergola. $155,000

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september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

sports » surfing

Nine-year-old Joey Putnal captures the “Big Wave” trophy. Photo by Ken Horton-icunphotos.com

Not Afraid to Try A

couple of years ago we ran a story about a seven-year-old successfully competing against boys three years older than him in national surfing contests. Today that seven-year-old, Joey Putnal, is nine and recently captured the “Big Wave” competition against boys, some as much as six years older than him in a Gnarly Charley Grom Surf Series event in New Smyrna Beach. Grom is short for grommets, a name that older surfers have jokingly nicknamed surfers under 16 years of age. The name is derived from a variety of fish by the same name. These large schools of small fish often play in the waves in some coastal areas and occasionally beach themselves for unknown reasons. Do you see the similarities? On August 7, tropical storm Colin was churning up the Atlantic near Bermuda bringing in above average waves to the east coast of Florida. That made conditions ripe for veteran surfers to experience the high that they are all looking for… the big wave. On this particular day, the youngest

Nine-year-old Surfer Ride Big Wave to Title written By: Joe Bowles

grommet rode the wave that the others were dreaming about as he took an 8-foot wave to shore across the entire contest area and brought home the first place trophy. According to his grandfather, “The conditions were just right that day. A big set of waves came… he dropped in on one of those waves and when it turned, he rode it all the way in. Joey still can’t believe he won. He’s still talking about it.”

“

Hajek is a series of eight competitions that are held on the east coast of Florida from April to October each year. Points are earned each tournament, the points are totaled at the end of the series, and championship trophies are awarded. So far, Joey is the leader in points among the 12-and-under group. “Joey hasn’t won any of the events, but he has placed in every event,” Clark said. “It’s

What makes Joey such a tough competitor is his lack of fear. “He’s not afraid of anything...

”

all about consistency. He has won a lot of his heats and he has consistently been in the top three in every event. That’s why he’s on top.”

By the end of the day, Joey had not only captured the Biggest Wave trophy competing against all ages, but also captured second place in the 12-and-under category. Joey, a fourth grader at Jackson Elementary School in Mrs. Gentile and Mrs. Audin’s The Gnarly Charley Surf Series named class, is the son of Andy and Katie Putnal and the older brother of Kaden or Skeets after its founder and director Charley

as he is called. Joey learned to swim at the age fifteen months at the Plant City Family YMCA and he began going to the beach at the age of two. Surfing was the next step. His grandfather, an avid surfer himself, taught Joey how to ride the board. By the time he was four, he was on his way and less than a year later, he was competing in tournaments. Before Joey reached his eighth birthday, he was nationally ranked (#3) among boys 12-and-under. In December of 2008, he was honored as Surfer of the Month by CFLSurf.com. Joey is sponsored by Surftech Surfboards, Xcel Wetsuits, Surfco of Hawaii, and Sticky Bumps Surf Wax. What makes Joey such a tough competitor is his lack of fear. “He’s not afraid of anything,” remarked Clark. “Last week he wanted to ride those 20 foot waves that Hurricane Earl was making. I told him, ‘No,’ it was just too dangerous. He just has that competitive streak in him. He’s not afraid to try.”

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

sports » athlete of the month

written & photo By: Joe Bowles

Alix Hooker A

lix Hooker lives an exciting life and that’s the way she wants it. As one of seven seniors on Plant City High School’s volleyball team, she knows that this year could be the year that things get real exciting, especially on the court. “I think that this is going to be our best year ever,” said Alix. “We have seven seniors and a lot of girls with a lot of experience. So, I’m not making any predictions, but I’m really excited about this team.”

And she should be. The Raiders are hoping to use the experience they gained last year from a successful season with a winning record, to help them step up their game and make a run in the district playoffs. If they do, a major reason for their success could be contributed to Alix, the team’s inspirational leader on and off the court. You see, Alix plays the position of Libero, a position that was introduced to the sport in 1998. A libero is the player who wears the different color jersey. Generally, the libero directs or quarterbacks the team on the court and is the most talented defensive player on the team. This calls for a leader who is excited, aggressive, and knows the game. Hooker fits the bill in every category.

“

In the sixth grade, Alix fell in love with the game at Tomlin Middle School. The following year, she joined a travel team, Tampa United. For the next several years,

I had a greater passion and love for volleyball. It was fact paced, there was constant movement, and I loved the thrill of the game.

”

Alix divided her time between two sports, volleyball and softball. However, at the end of her sophomore year, Alix decided that

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

she had to focus on one sport. She chose volleyball. “I love both sports, but I just enjoyed volleyball more,” said Alix. “After my sophomore year, I realized that it was too difficult to play both. I had a greater passion and love for volleyball. It was fact paced, there was constant movement, and I loved the thrill of the game. I loved it more than anything else I’ve ever done.” With such passion, please don’t think that Alix is in the gym all the time. The daughter of Jax and Bambi Hooker, and the older sister of Jacey (11), Alix has a social life too. She is the vice president of her senior class, vice president of the Civinettes, active in Best Buddies, Drama and student council. She is the chaplain of the National Honor Society, a member of the Youth Alive club, and serves on the youth leadership team at her church. Sporting a 5.0 GPA (weighted), Hooker is preparing to take the next step in furthering her education. Right now, she is undecided on college, but would be willing to go anywhere she is offered a chance to play volleyball. “My priority in life is serving Christ,” Alix emphasized. “I know that volleyball isn’t my life. It is a gift that God has given me and I have my priorities in order. But, if I can, I want to continue to play volleyball.” Hooker aspires to teach. She might be a kindergarten teacher like her mother, or a high school teacher, if it affords her the opportunity to coach volleyball. “If I were to teach high school,” said Alix. “I would pattern myself after my mentor and Youth Alive sponsor, Alan Schism.” He has set the example, and I want to be just like him.”

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

sports » Baseball team of the month

2418 James L. Redman Pkwy., Plant City, FL (813) 757-0300 written By: Joe Bowles | photo courtesy of: Rod Mason

“

Cory Cotnoir delivered a two-out single driving in the tying and winning runs for a dramatic walk-off victory.

”

established. That’s exactly what happened again this year. Three teams, Land O’ Lakes, Manatee East and Plant City all ended the tournament with 2-1 records and a tie breaker formula was enforced. The team that allowed the least number of runs, Land O’ Lakes, was declared the winner, although Plant City defeated Land O’ Lakes earlier by a score of 4-3.

(L to R) Front Row - Cory Cotnoir, Peyton Collins, Billy McKay, Ryan Boyd, Chelsea Baker Middle Row- Jarrett Joyner, Jacob Raylea, Brandon Connell, Brandon Harris, Josh Gude, McKenzie Wheeler Back Row- Coach Armand Cotnoir, Coach Rod Mason, Head Coach Steve Gude

plant city I t looked bleak for the Plant City 11-12 year-old All Stars on July 7 in District IV competition as North Lakeland held a 3-2 lead entering the fifth inning of their third round game. So far, Plant City had been held in check by North Lakeland’s ace pitcher, Dalton Kennedy. However, when the final inning began, North Lakeland decided to pull Kennedy from the game before his pitch count reached fifty so he could be used later in the championship game if needed.

That was a strategy that backfired, as Plant City took advantage of his absence by loading the bases in the bottom of the final inning and then hoped for a miracle. That

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

All stars district champions

is exactly what they got. Cory Cotnoir delivered a two-out single driving in the tying and winning runs for a dramatic walk-off victory. Brandon Connell earlier slapped a double and a triple and scored two of the team’s four runs that Cotnoir had knocked in. The District IV tournament held at the North Lakeland Park saw Plant City advance to the third round with an opening round win against Lakeland City Tangerine 17-0 and a second round win over Poinciana 10-0. Jacob Ralyea was the winning pitcher in the first contest and Ryan Boyd picked up the win in the latter. With Plant City’s victory, North Lakeland

was bumped to the loser’s bracket and Plant City was afforded a day’s rest as they waited to see who would emerge to face them in the finals on July 9. North Lakeland prevailed over Lake Wales and once again, Plant City would face North Lakeland, but this time Kennedy was not on the mound. The result was a 16-3 drubbing that Plant City put on their rivals to capture the District IV championship. Brandon Harris and Ralyea each clubbed homers and Chelsea Baker pitched five innings for the win and contributed a homer of her own. With the District IV Championship in hand, Plant City traveled to Bloomingdale Park on July 23 to take on three other district winners in a round robin affair… a format that draws annual criticism as more often than not, a clear cut winner is not

Plant City’s other win was a 9-4 defeat of East Bay on the morning of July 24. That afternoon Plant City squared off against Manatee East and seemed to be headed to the Section IV Championship with a 10-7 lead heading into the top of the sixth and final inning. That’s when the wheels came off. “It was the most heart breaking thing I’ve ever been a part of,” said Assistant Coach Rod Mason. “We watched it disintegrate right before our eyes and there was nothing we could do.” By the time Manatee East was done, twelve runners had crossed the plate. Much to Plant City’s credit, they rallied for six runs in the bottom of the sixth but came up short. The final score: Manatee East 19 Plant City 16. Both teams eliminated themselves by the number of runs allowed. “We had a great team and had a great experience. We came so close,” said Assistant Coach Armand Cotnoir. “We just came up one inning short.”

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L A N D S C A P I N G foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

sports » fitness

fitness matters Expert answers to your health and wellness questions submitted By: Se’a Ryan

O There is no childhood obesity epidemic. (We just need better role models.)

For more information, visit the Coalition of Angry Kids at www.coak.org

September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. For four weeks, you’re going to hear that 1 in 3 kids are overweight or obese—and that video games, vending machines, TV and junk food are to blame. But the real problem is that adults aren’t setting a good example. Parents, we know you’re busy, so we’re here to help. Visit one of our 1,300 Anytime Fitness clubs in the month of September and receive a FREE 30-day trial membership, a FREE 30-minute personal training session, and a FREE 30-day pass to AnytimeHealth.com.

2402 James L Redman Parkway Plant City, Fl 33566 813.567.1057 plantcityFl@anytimefitness.com

Program ends 9/25/2010. See club for details. Offer subject to change. Must be 18 years or older. current members are ineligible.

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Sponsor of the Coalition of Angry Kids

n September 1, 2010, September was declared National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. It is important that we recognize the danger our next generation is facing because of poor eating habits and lack of exercise. It is even more critical that we realize the origin of this danger. We will hear a great deal through the month about the need to avoid fast food, get kids to stop playing video games and go outside to play. Though these concepts are great, these habits are not the real issue. The real need is for the adults in our kids’ lives to be good role models and improve their own health. As adults it is our own poor eating habits, lack of activity, and weight gain that set the poor health course for our children. In 1991, no state had more than a 20% obesity rate. Today 38 states have a greater than 20% obesity rate and Florida’s rate is 25.1%. That’s not just obese kids folks. As parents we have to take responsibility for our own health, and by so doing we give our kids better role models. Your own weight is the most controllable health factor in your life. Take control of your weight and you control your future and possibly the future of your children.

Yoga provides a fantastic workout and offers several health benefits, including improved flexibility, increased strength and muscle tone, better breathing, enhanced body awareness, and stress reduction. Some people equate yoga with passive stretching, but it’s so much more than that—it’s actually quite challenging. After giving it a try, most folks are amazed that you can get such a good workout using just your body weight. There are several different types of yoga, so hopefully your friends are going to a class that you’ll enjoy as well. Hectic schedules seem to rule the day, so yoga’s more calming aspects are a welcomed addition, not to mention the true fitness benefits.

» Question:

I’ve become much more aware of my carbohydrate intake, specifically focusing on sugars. I watch sweets and limit refined grains, but what about fruit?

» Answer:

Fruit is essentially all sugar, but it also has lots of vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals. Because of this, there is no reason to limit or avoid fruit. In fact, most people could probably use an extra serving or two each day. The only individuals that may need to moderate Now on to this month’s questions: their intake a bit would be those dealing with diabetes, but even they can still have a few servings daily, as long as they’re spaced well throughout the day. Generally, when I have a few friends that attend yoga classes regularly, and they’ve been trying to we talk about limiting sugar, we’re focusing on the added sugars that seem to appear get me to join them. Do you recommend in so many foods. Added sugars contribute yoga as an alternative to traditional significantly to overall carbohydrate strength training and cardiovascular and calorie intake, and are one of the exercise? many reasons for the nation’s expanding waistline. Let’s not forget—carbohydrates are an important energy source for the I always recommend incorporating several brain, the red blood cells, and our muscles. different types of training in your regimen.

» Question:

» Answer:

Se’a Ryan has been dedicated to fitness her entire life focused on encouraging people to take charge of their own health. To submit a question, contact Se’a at seameditate@verizon.net .

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

extra » senior of the month

Analise Coffee senior of the month Written By: Brooke Allie

Matt Singletary senior of the month Written By: Brooke Allie

Matt is looking forward to increasing participation and really showing off what the boys can do. In addition, this year, he is also a member of the Youth Alive council. Youth Alive is an interest club for PCHS students who are Christians to get together and share their walk with God. He loves attending these meeting and being involved with such a great group of students.

and 2010 All Western Conference, First Team Outfielder. Analise was also awarded last year with the FIAAA 2010 State Sportsmanship Award for demonstrating sportsmanship and the spirit of fair play.

n the court, in the field, in the classroom, or even on the stage, you can find Analise Coffee working hard to be the best. This more than well-rounded senior is full of drive and determination for whatever task she is handed. Her plethora of activities and achievements demonstrate the outcome of a true hark worker.

With all these achievements Analise still leaves time for her community. Through Best Buddies, a club that pairs special needs children with high-school students, Analise has dedicated a lot of time to these kids. She commented that, “Best Buddies means a lot to me because not only am I helping them, they’re helping me. I learn a lot from them about being a good person, and their happiness makes it all worthwhile.” Last year she was Jr. Vice President of the club and has participated in the Special Olympics several times, competing in softball, volleyball, and bowling with her buddy.

Analise also took time last year to mentor an elementary school student through the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program. Last year she was named President of Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD), Ranked second out of her entire senior helping raise awareness in the community class at PCHS, with a GPA of 6.02, Analise has shown her incredible academic about the dangerous actions of teenagers. ability and still finds time between In the spare time Analise has she enjoys homework to go above and beyond the normal high school student’s involvements. participating in drama productions at She has received many awards and honors PCHS. She was in “Suessical the Musical” last year and will be in “The Wizard of for all her hard work including: being a Oz” this fall. Last year Analise competed member of the National Honors Society, attending the Young Leader’s Conference in PCHS’s calendar girl competition and won Cover Girl. This was an honor for her (YLC) at the University of Florida, and she was thrilled to represent PCHS the Mid-Florida Hugh O’Brian Youth in the community and around school. She Leadership Seminar (HOBY), the West also works part time at Beef O’ Brady’s as a Point Society Leadership and Ethics food runner and said, “It’s hard sometimes Conference at the University of South but you just have to prioritize and do the Florida, named 2010 “Young Woman of best you can, eventually it will all work Promise” by the Athena Society and the out!” winner of the 2010 General H. Norman Schwarzkopf Leadership Award. In the future she hopes to attend the University of Florida and major in Analise also shows her hard work on the Psychology leading to a career as a dolphin field and court. She has started on the trainer. Her love for animals and the ocean PCHS varsity volleyball team all four has fueled her choice in career and she years and received the “Most Valuable has known since she was a kid that her Player” for offense in 2009. She is also a starter on the varsity softball team and last future was going to be in the water. With year was named one of the team captains. whatever she chooses to do, Analise Coffee will do it to her best ability and make a She was selected 2009 All-Western difference, as she is already doing. Conference, Second Team Outfielder,

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

enior, Matt Singletary is doing everything but striking out while in high school. He has proven himself to be a role model to many and is not letting anyone down. His involvement in school, athletics and in the community shows his strive towards a bright future. Matt’s academic career has been a heavy focus for him all throughout his life. He considers himself to be “a pretty busy person”, but still finds time to maintain a 5.1 GPA, ranking 29th in his senior class, a great achievement amongst the over 400-student senior class this year. He has also been a member of the National Honors Society at PCHS for three years now. Around school Matt is involved in service and interest clubs. He was elected the Vice President of Civitan this year, a service club closely tied to the community and helping out those in it. Civitan conducts a yearly “trick-or-treat” for cans, for Metropolitan Ministries. Matt said he truly enjoys participating in this charitable event. As the vice president of the club,

One thing Matt surely does not lack is athleticism. He has been a member of the varsity baseball team at PCHS since he was in the tenth grade. “I have been playing baseball since I was three,” said Matt, “the game teaches you a lot about life and patience and really makes you think. I consider the game to be more about the mental aspect than the physical.” Playing shortstop, you can see him starting at the baseball games and leading his team, as he was named captain of the team this year. Last year Matt made First Team all county for his outstanding ability and was named the player with “the most runs in all 5A high school baseball”. He has used his passion for the game and translated it into a way to reach out to the community. In his spare time he umpires little league games, helps instruct young baseball players at Baseball Heaven Camps and even volunteered at the Jacksonville Suns Stadium. In the future, Matt hopes to attend college on an athletic scholarship. He wants to major in sports medicine and pursue a career in that field when he graduates from college. For someone who, “likes a challenge”, Matt Singletary has proven to not be too phased by the challenges thrown at him and he is definitely headed towards success.

PAID FOR BY WILKINSON FOR CONGRESS

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Č foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

extra » al reuchel size of the crowd, the hidden agendas many members of the media kept trying to uncover. They not only couldn’t find a smoking gun… they couldn’t find a single shred of evidence to suggest it was anything but a peaceful gathering of like-minded citizens. They called the guy organizing the event a crazed madman. They mocked the niece of Martin Luther King, Jr. for hijacking her Uncle’s legacy. They called it a political rally though the rally preached no party, non-affiliation, no list of candidates, no signs of protest. What has always disturbed the nonbelieving world is the concept of believing in something they can’t see, touch or feel. The act of bowing on bended knee with hands folded is seen as an act of surrender to superstition. In truth, people of faith scare them. They can’t attack God because they don’t believe in Him, so they attack those who do believe. The scary part is that those of us who do believe, and I count myself among them, are the ones who are expected to crumble. We are chastised when we place a belief in an external creator above all other forces that move us. If we dare use faith as a reason for our actions, it’s considered a weakness rather than a strength. If those beliefs spill over into the political arena we are told we violate the separation of church and state, which, as you should know by now, is a concept rooted in keeping the government out of our religious expression and not our religious convictions out of government.

Defending God?

I don’t think so! Written By: Al Reuchel

Wow. I can’t believe I’m doing this. I can’t believe that in 2010 I would have to write a commentary defending God. Well, maybe not defending God but rather the right to have a belief in a God.

or some reason when the going gets tough it’s easy to blame the big guy for not paying attention. We ask ourselves if God is love then why does He allow so much suffering in the world? We like to place Him out there, somewhere, beyond the sky watching us “from a distance”, sorry Bette Midler. We think God is the cosmic roller of the dice and whatever happens… just happens. We think He is the ultimate crutch for those

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not strong enough or intelligent enough to figure out we are merely the evolution of primordial mud. I bring this up because of a huge event that happened in Washington D.C. on August the 28th. It was a rally to restore honor and make a pledge to work harder at loving, living, and making sure the American dream, whatever that might be, is available to anyone and everyone. How could anyone take offense to that?

How could anyone take offense to praying and believing that we are all created with rights that come from God and not the government or other men? These aren’t new ideas. Our forefathers used and believed these things to the core of their souls to write the constitution. It’s what makes this American experiment the longest running republic in the history of the world. Many members of the media debated the

So it all came to a head out there on the Washington mall. Maybe it wasn’t as big as the 1963 speech of Dr. King? Maybe the crowd wasn’t as big as President Obama’s inauguration party? Maybe the anti-war rallies of the Vietnam area had more energy, more fervor? But like Norman Rockwell’s painting of the farmer and his wife kneeling to pray in their fields at harvest time, it sent an undeniable message that thousands, millions, tens of millions still believe that God is in control; that He still loves; that He’s not impressed or threatened by those who mock Him; and that one day every knee, not just those gathered in Washington, DC on August 28, 2010, will bow. Either in obedience to His call, or in fear of the judgment He will certainly bring.

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september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

extra » derek maul

I fell in love with the Appalachian Trail back in 1976, when I hiked the length of Virginia with a small group of friends. We were “out” for two full months. We climbed up into West Virginia at Harpers Ferry, cut through a small portion of Maryland, and ended up a few days walk into Pennsylvania.

Beyond the Bucket List

I don’t have one of those elaborate, extensive “Bucket Lists”. But there are a few things I’ve always kept stored in the back of my mind as, “Gotta do that sometime between now and when I check out” items.

“P

ublishing a book” was very close to the top of that list. “Win an Amy” for faith-based journalism was up there too. “See my children grown and happy” has absolutely turned out to be as good as it gets. Ding! Ding! Ding! The list is certainly a lot shorter than it was a few years ago. There are a bunch of other items too. But the list is not organized, written down, or posted anywhere other than the back of my mind. It hasn’t been seriously developed at all. But, if I absolutely had to give some kind of an accounting, here are a few things I’d probably have to share:

I want to publish a young adult novel, Morocco. All told, six weeks. the kind that wins a Newbery Award. I I’d like to climb Kilimanjaro before know the plot exactly, and I’ve already sketched out the book in rough prose. the snow melts, see Victoria Falls, walk the Great Wall of China, spend one more full I’m itching to speak to a huge crowd calendar year in England. at a big event; to be invited to talk about That’s all up in the air, and will likely stay my work internationally; to guest on Oprah’s book club. I want to be on the there. But today - Wednesday, August 25, 2010 - I checked off one small item that’s New York Times bestseller list. been sitting on my list for the best part of Another item on my inventory is to 34 years. I walked up Springer Mountain in North Georgia, photographed myself at cruise the Mediterranean with Rebekah, the Southern Terminus of the Appalachian on an extended educational study tour. Trail, and hiked a couple of miles of the We’d board in Spain, stop at every port in Italy, take in Greece slowly, start Turkey in AT with Rebekah, like we were heading Istanbul and work our way round like Paul off on the 2,179 mile trek to the far on a mission, tour Israel and Egypt, hug reaches of Maine. the coast of North Africa and finish up in

But my “Bucket List” is not what drives me - it’s just a fun way to think about some of my dreams. What drives me is my commitment to live the kind of life that honors the intention of my Creator. It’s my calling to live, to live as if I really mean it. No half-measures. No holding back. No mediocrity. I have a friend who died recently after a long struggle with a debilitating illness. He was in a wheelchair, faced constant pain, and was always having to deal with challenges that appeared overwhelming. But the strong testimony of his life was that - through long years of suffering - he simply lived. Dan lived like he meant it. He didn’t “get by”, he didn’t fuss, and he wasn’t bitter about the mountains he couldn’t climb or the places he couldn’t get to. He lived at 100% of capacity. My faith, and my commitment to live in that kind of purposeful abundance, is really the only thing on my list that counts at all.

foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

extra » ken lawrence workers began receiving longer paid vacations, along with many paid holidays, honoring one thing after another. One American who has lived in Belgium for several years, sarcastically suggested “the only thing they did not have a Holiday for was the Belgium Waffle”.

Brussels International Airport Photo by Ken Lawrence

Life in Western Is It Better than America? Europe submitted By: ken lawrence

A Report from Focus Reporter Ken Lawrence who has just returned from a European Trip.

“W

hen is your economy going to get better”?

“Don’t make the same mistake we did with Health Care”. “Stop Buying ‘Made in China’ Products. Buy-European.” “Get out of Iraq and Afghanistan”. “Tell the Glazers to get out of Manchester”. As a broadcast journalist who has travelled the world extensively, especially Europe, we took time from an August visit with my son who lives and works in Brussels, Belgium, to meet people and ask what they thought of the present world economic crisis. There is no more “Yankee Go Home” babble that we used to hear, because that talk in the past was basically jealousy. Today, it’s worry. Europe has suffered as much and possibly more from the economic collapse that occurred two years ago on Wall Street. My trip this time was to the Capital of

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the European Union, Brussels, which has not had a functioning government in many months. Being a government town, Brussels has not suffered as badly as many other European Countries, where economies have ground to a halt. Spain is one example, where the skyline of Madrid and Barcelona use to be lined with cranes erecting Offices and high rise Condos. Many of those cranes are still there, rusting away.

How about a lunch voucher paid by the government and employer? A variation of that still exists today, in spite of tough economic times. Those vouchers, by the way, can be cashed at a supermarket if the employees save them-up by bringing their lunches to work. In America, we call them Food-Stamps, which are supposedly issued only to poor families. Then there is Health Care in Europe. Someone has to pay for it and pay they do, to the tune of an average 7-10% of their income in various taxes. All told, some Europeans pay up to two-thirds of their pay in taxes. One area where Europeans DO NOT Pay their share of international commitments is DEFENCE. Since the end of World War Two, Europe has hidden behind the NATO Defence Treaty, which, for all intents and purposes is paid for and operated by the USA. The Times of London reported earlier this year… “Europeans have boasted about their social model, with its generous vacations and early retirements, its national health care systems and extensive welfare benefits, contrasting it with the comparative harshness of American Capitalism”

A High School music teacher in Brussels told me that many Europeans refuse to believe that their “protected” lifestyle will As reported in a recent issue of “The New ever change. He said that people there Federalist.eu” publication, aimed at young have become so dependent on government Europeans, it was written “Europe is now that they believe, “ life will only change for the better”.

suffering from stagnation, unemployment and social discontent”.

» Is This Where America is Heading? Many political and business leaders now believe President Obama wants to bring that European style of life to America. Signs have certainly pointed in that direction since the President took office in 2009. Statistics clearly show that the existing Health Care system here is much more effective than in Europe. Example: while there seem to be more incidents of various types of cancer in America, especially breast cancer, the mortality rate here on a per capita basis, is much less than in Europe. Would better treatment in the USA have something to do with that and might it change under a government run system? One area that America can learn from Europe is EDUCATION. Our system has been falling behind other countries and that issue must be addressed by the federal, state and local governments, immediately. Yes, our lifestyle can use improvement, especially better checks and balances on free enterprise, but as the Times of London stated “the Euro-Fantasy is coming to an end”. Do we want to repeat what seems to have failed in Europe? As for the Glazers and Manchester United…who cares about soccer, just improve the Buccaneers.

» What Governments in Europe Provide There was a time through the late 1980’s and into the mid-90’s, when the average salary of a Western European was almost equal to that of their USA counterparts. Governments took full advantage of that and began providing more and more benefits, increasing taxes to pay for those ‘goodies’. One example: In Belgium

Brussels-The Hub of European Government Photo by Ken Lawrence

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

extra » Auto Review

All New 2011 Fiesta Gives Reason to Like the TV Commercials, Fiesta Sings and Dances Celebrate T review By: Brian West

he Ford Motor Company has added another winner to their lineup. This time, the all new 2011 Ford Fiesta is getting rave reviews, and deservedly so. I recently had an opportunity to test drive a new Fiesta from Jarrett-Scott Ford. The new Fiesta is offered in “9 kaleidoscopic colors,” and my friends at the dealership were kind enough to find me one of the brightest colors available – Lime Squeeze Metallic. Besides being an eye-catching ride, the new Fiesta has a lot to offer. A few of the most attractive features are the price, the fuel mileage and the voice-activated Ford SYNC system. I drove an SE Hatchback

september 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

with an MSRP of $17,300, which is definitely affordable, and it’s also available in a sedan. The fuel mileage is rated at 40 mpg, and very few cars on the road today reach this stratosphere. The SYNC system allows you to give voice commands to operate your mobile phone. It provides hands-free calling, reads incoming text messages aloud, plays music, shuffles the tracks and gives traffic directions and information. Very cool!

the controls of a 32-bit microprocessor, it delivers its best overall fuel efficiency. My Lime Squeeze Metallic (which turned heads all over town) SE Hatchback had a 6-speed automatic transmission that was smooth in the delivery at every stage. It handled well. The rear wheels seem to be set to the outside corners, which provide maximum stability for the small platform, and delivers a ride was comfortable and much smoother than I expected.

The fuel mileage is a direct result of the engine design. Ford introduces a 120 hp, 1.6L Ti-VCT Duratec I-4 power plant. Ti-VCT stands for twin independent variable camshaft timing. It’s designed to increase the peak power, and through

The interior was comfortable, and all of the controls were ergonomic in design, and logical in placement. Climate controls are located low, just ahead of the shifter, where once they’re set they’re out of the way. All the entertainment controls are

located on the cell-phone-inspired center console, along with the door locks. My first thought was, “Why move the door locks to the center console?” But it works for the Fiesta, and makes more sense. The steering wheel also has controls on the left and right spokes that allow full operation for the driver without removing your hands from the wheel. I really enjoyed the new Fiesta. Ford put quite a bit of thought into this new design and they’ve hit a home run. Its fun, it’s affordable and it will appeal to a wide variety of buyers. So if you’re interested in a new Fiesta, please stop by and see the folks at Jarrett-Scott Ford. They’ll be happy to help you.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

entertainment » dining profile Asian Chen Restaurant 2609 Thonotosassa Road Plant City, FL 33563 Phone: 813-757-9888 Mon - Thurs: 10:30 am – 10:00 pm Fri - Sat: 10:30 am – 11:00 pm Sunday: 11:30 am – 10:00 pm is, “Jumbo shrimp, crab meat, sliced chicken, roast pork, imported straw mushrooms, bamboo shoots, Chinese vegetables and baby corn served with crispy wontons.”

Asian Chen Restaurant Bringing variety and passion to Asian Cuisine A

written By: John Ross

sian Chen Restaurant in Plant City puts a new spin on eating Asian food. It’s not a Chinese, Japanese, or even Vietnamese restaurant - it’s all of them. And it is part buffet, so be prepared to get stuffed from food all over the East. Focus visited to sample the food that’s been creating a buzz since its opening three months ago. We spoke with Jessica, the very friendly owner and hostess, while she was helping other customers. She and husband Andy have owned a small takeout venue in Tampa, and with the opening of Asian Chen in Plant City they now have opportunity to serve up the ideas they have been creating for some time. The buffet item that has reportedly received the most attention is the Coconut Chicken & Shrimp. The point of a buffet is usually to enjoy a little bit of many different things, and this dish will probably take more than its fair share of on your second plate. Whole cooked shrimp and chicken chunks are doused in a sticky, light colored sauce made from coconut

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and coffee milk, among other ingredients, as Jessica told us. Chicken and shrimp married well is a good thing, and that’s what the sauce does. The selection features many classics of buffet-style Asian dining: mussels in the shell, egg drop and wonton soup, and a larger-than-average choice of desserts, including, of course, Chinese Donuts.

The buffet items rotate, but during our visit there were eight different chicken dishes. The General Tso’s is cut thick and cooked slowly for juiciness and covered in a higher grade of the traditional sauce, making it perhaps the best around. The Pepper Chicken was spicy from black pepper and jalapeno rings, cut smaller so they’re more tender. The Teriyaki chicken is flavored with soy sauce and complex with notes of onion. The sushi rolls were “weighty,” and freshly made wasabi and ginger is offered. A notable thing about the lunch buffet is the price. For $5.25, is there a more economical way to fill up on innovative Asian cuisine? For fear of being wrong,

most would leave this question open. But I’m going to go ahead and risk saying no this is the lowest buffet price around. Besides the buffet, one can order from Asian Chen’s menu. The Subgum Wonton

We tried one of the Vietnam Specials, the Grilled Pork Chops ($6.75). “This is our most popular Vietnam Special,” said Jessica. “This can’t be found anywhere else in the area.” The dish came with chunks of pork marinated in sauce, and next to them were perfectly columned slices of tomato and cucumber. A side of a thin sweet sauce is served. It was interesting to methodically take the fork and stab a piece of pork, then a piece of cucumber followed by a piece of tomato and then dip it all into the sauce before eating it. We also had the Singapore Chow Mei Fun ($8.50) with rice noodles, shrimp, and Asian-style cooked vegetables. The noodles were tender and the shrimp was seasoned and delicious. Come enjoy this passion-filled restaurant, found in the Publix parking lot on Thonotosassa Road. Don’t forget the coconut Shrimp!

» dining guide

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2609 thonotosassa rd. plant city, fl 33563 813-757-9888

buddyfreddy’s

uddy Freddy’s is still cooking southern home style meals, and has for more than twenty years now. Come sit a spell on one of our porch rockers and take a break from your hectic schedule for a while. Then dine on the best southern cooking around. Our buffet breakfasts, lunch and dinners are famous around these parts. Thanks to loyal customers, we’ll keep up this reputation and tradition for many more to come.”

1101 goldfinch dr. plant city, fl 813-754-5120

cowboy’s saloon and steakhouse

owboys Steakhouse and Saloon features a restaurant for meat-loving southerners to enjoy southern cooking and a connected saloon to line dance in afterwards. Inside everything is wooden from the floors to ceiling. Come in and enjoy juicy steaks,but don’t forget about our fresh baked sour-dough, and other appetizers and entrees that are sure to make your mouth water.

106 State Road 60 E. Plant City, FL 33567-9253 813- 650-8888

chili’s

hili’s has been spicing things up since 1975. There is something for everyones taste. From Sizzling chicken or beef fajitas, fired grilled classic burgers or the new honey chipotle baby back ribs that are slow smoked over pecan wood so they’re “fall-off-the-bone” tender with a bold new honeychipotle flavor that’s impossible to resist. Call in or come in, your always welcome at Chili’s.

3001 James L Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33566 813-764-8548 www.chilis.com foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

» dining guide

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kazbors

ew menu and new owners make a great blend for mouth-watering food, great drinks, friendly service and perfect family atmosphere. Not only is Kazbor’s is the best bar and grill in town to go to for lunch or dinner, but they’ve got the best wings for game night and some of the best drink prices around! Happy Hour is every day from 3-7pm and Thursdays are all you can eat wings for $9.95. With 20 TV’s and the NFL Sunday ticket, you’ll never miss a game!

2212 Jim Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-2700

olde town pizzeria

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

3011 James L Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33566 (813) 752-5800 www.oldetownpizzeria.com

the red rose dining room

he Red Rose Dining Room is the only 5-star rated restaurant in Plant City. Mrs. Evelyn Madonia invites you to allow Executive Chef Matteo Casini to take your taste buds on a delicious journey. Enjoy an elegant setting and beautiful atmosphere for lunch or dinner. Tuesday and Wednesday evenings feature an all you can eat prime rib and seafood buffet. On the weekends you can catch fabulous entertainment (visit the website for upcoming shows).

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2011 N Wheeler St Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-3141 www.redroseinnandsuites.com

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entertainment » red rose salad and dessert and you have a Tuesday or Wednesday evening of fine dining at the Red Rose Inn and Suites. The Sunday Champaign Brunch features favorites like complimentary mimosas, prime rib and Georgia peach glazed ham. Sweet potato casserole, salad and a host of sinfully delicious desserts round out the menu. The Red Rose Inn and Suites leads the area in special events and activities for adults. To lead off each week, professional dance instructor Susan Staton offers dance lessons on Monday evenings beginning at 7:00 pm. No matter what an individual’s dance experience, Susan offers step by step instructions that fit everyone’s dance level. Participants are encouraged to attend as an individual or couple.

The Contours enjoy time posing with fans: Left to right- Contour Ken Green, Contour Darrel Nunley, Lanny Sumpter (Plant City McDonalds owner), Brenda Gary, Contour Leon Franklin and Contour Sylvester Potts. Photo Courtesy of the Red Rose Inn and Suites

Motown Legends Perform To Sold Out Red Rose Audience T written By: kelleigh klein

journey. The single went to number 3 in he Contours, featuring Sylvester Potts, the top U.S. song charts. recently rocked the house in the Red Rose Inn and Suites Ballroom. The Hits that followed “Do You Love Me” group performed to a sold out crowd of and “Shake Sherry” in 1963 and “Can over 300 patrons who danced the night You Do It” and “Can You Jerk Like Me,” away to Motown top hits. The concert sold in 1964. Other songs that contributed out in advance of the Saturday, August to the Contours great musical success 21st date. included Smokey Robinson’s tune “First I Look at the Purse” and the dance favorite The evening was orchestrated in typical “Just A Little Misunderstanding.” The Red Rose Inn and Suites fashion . . . to last official release to the Contours credit perfection! The food and service was was “So Hard Being a Loser” in 1967. impeccable, the ballroom was beautifully In 1988, “Do You Love Me” returned to decorated in red and black linens and the the U.S. Top 20 after its inclusion in the entertainment was Motown’s best!! From film “Dirty Dancing (www.soulwalking. the moment the Contours took the stage, co.uk/contours).” No matter what the the crowd packed the dance floor. song, everything the Contours perform is a crowd favorite. Today’s Contours The Contours began their musical journey are comprised of group members Darrel in 1959 as The Blenders. The Blenders Nunley, Leon Franklin, Ken Green and musical group was made up of members Sylvester Potts. Joe Billingslea, Billy Gordon, Billy Hoggs, and Billy Rollin. In 1960, they became The Red Rose Inn and Suites is known for the Contours and auditioned for Motown their top billing entertainment. Friday and Records. The group was given a Motown Saturday nights at the Red Rose Inn and contract in 1961 and they released a couple Suites feature favorite musical groups like of hit singles (“Whole Lotta Woman” and Ralph Allocco, Johnny Alston’s Motown “The Stretch”). It was in 1962 that they Review, PJ Leary and Destiny. Between released their big hit “Do You Love Me,” them, there is more than a decade of the song that launched their musical hit

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top hits from Motown to Top 40 genre performed for audience enjoyment. The Red Rose Inn and Suites is also famous for their five star dining experiences like their famous seafood and prime rib buffet. The buffet features delicious entrees like baked, broiled, steamed and fried seafood, including lightly battered fried shrimp. Top it off with steamed crab legs, prime rib au jus,

Thursday night at the Red Rose Inn and Suites caters to singles. Singles night features crowd favorites like happy hour, dance contests, giveaways and great music provided by crowd favorites Destiny, Mellissa Malone, and Tony Johnson (www. redroseinnandsuites.com). The Red Rose Inn and Suites is the areas favorite spot for top billing entertainment, five star dining and luxurious accommodations. They are located at 2011 North Wheeler Street, Plant City, 33563 and can be reached by phone at (813) 752-3141. To keep up with the events and activities taking place at the Red Rose Inn and Suites or to scroll through pictures of their current events and activities, visit their web site at www.redroseinnandsuites. com.

Hundreds of guests enjoy an evening of dancing with the Contours at the Red Rose Inn and Suites Ballroom. Photo Courtesy of the Red Rose Inn and Suites

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foCUS Magazine Plant City september 2010

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entertainment Âť artist of the month

Jalanda Paulk

Victoria Pritchard

Photo by Heahter Davis

Kristin Adams

Pauline Wacaser

Photo by Heahter Davis

Giving EastThe Gift Hillsborough Art Guild With The Art Lounge Gallery Offers Art of Art Instruction to Local Students E written By: Heather Davis

veryone has heard the saying that if you give a man a fish you feed him for a day, but if you teach him how to fish you feed him for a lifetime. The East Hillsborough Art Guild has taken that saying literally and applied it to art. Each year the East Hillsborough Art Guild awards summer art program scholarships to students giving them the opportunity to learn and experience art first hand. The recipients of the scholarships are chosen from participants that enter their art into the Strawberry Festival Art show. Everyone who enters is given a chance to participate. This year four young girls ranging in ages from fifteen to eighteen

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were the recipients of the scholarships The East Hillsborough Art Guild in conjunction with the Art Lounge Gallery created for the four young women an amazing introduction to art. Each were provided with their own tools of the trade which included a complete and individualized art kit full of paints and brushes, personalized aprons, and handmade artist palettes. Once the proper tools were provided the girls began their art instruction which took place at the Art Lounge Gallery. The art lessons were held each Monday for two hours during the month of July for four consecutive weeks. A local well known artist and member of the East

Hillsborough Art Guild and the Art Lounge Gallery, Debra Bryant was their art instructor. Their instruction was in painting with oils in what may seem to be one of the most challenging aspects of art, learning how to paint self-portraits. With only one student of the four having had any type of art training the girls took to the task at hand diligently. Debra remarked upon their amazing focus and willingness to learn. As a result the finished portraits were extremely well produced with each girl capturing an amazing likeness of themselves on canvas. The four student artists, Victoria Pritchard, Pauline Wacasor, Jalanda Paulk, and Kristen Adams celebrated

their achievements with a pizza party at CCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pizza. Recently an anonymous donor supplied money to purchase frames for the girls to display their portraits. Just in time since they are going to be the featured artists this month in the Art Gallery Lounge as well as the featured artists in the Art After Dark held on September 11th. Thanks to the East Hillsborough Art Guild, the Art Lounge Gallery, and instructor Debra Bryant these four girls have been given the tools to fish in their art.

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entertainment » event calendar

plant city

calendar of events

If you have an upcoming event and would like us to add it to our calendar of events please email the information to: editorial@floydpublications.com

Wednesday, Sept. 15th » Planes, Trains, & Automobiles Meeting 8:30 a.m. at The Chamber, 106 N Evers Street, PC » All A Bloom Florists Ribbon Cutting 10:30 a.m. at 116 North Collins Street, PC » Downtown Business Development Committee Meeting 2:00 p.m. at The Chamber, 106 N Evers Street, PC

Thursday, Sept. 16th » Plant City Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting 11:30 a.m. at The Chamber, 106 N Evers Street, PC » Business After Hours O’Brien’s Irish Pub & Grill of Plant City 5:15 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. 1701 South Alexander Street

Friday, Sept. 17th » Leadership Plant City 2010-2011 Orientation 1:00 p.m. at The Chamber 106 N Evers Street For more information call (813) 7543707

Saturday, Sept. 18h » Strawberry Classic Car Show 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Car Show,

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Vendors, Local Antique Shops open, Live Music, and Great Commeraderie. Parking in North and South lots near the Depot, Drane, and Palmer. For more information call 813-754-3707. Location: Historic Downtown Plant City » The Last Supper Collection Exhibit hosted by Truth Christian Bookstore 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. This event is free and open to all. Young children must be closely supervised while attending. Located at 301 South Collins Street, Plant City. www.truthchristianstore.com For additional information of this interesting and informative event you can call the store at 813-363-1582.

Tuesday, Sept. 21st » Chain Link Club Event - Rachel’s Challenge 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tomlin Middle School There will be a guest appearance by Larry Scott. He will share about how students and parents can be the difference makers in their communities and schools through Chain Link Clubs. For more information call 813-7579400.

Thursday, Sept. 23rd » Diamonds & Denim 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation’s 14th Annual DIAMONDS & DENIM gala will take place at the Expo Building on the Festival grounds. Proceeds from this great event will benefit the various needs of the hospital. For ticket information, call Judy Martin at 813-757-1277.

Friday, Sept. 24th » “Night Owl” evening of networking and manuscript critique 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. 3315 Bryan Road

Saturday, Sept. 25th » Plant City Garden Club 2nd Annual Garden Fest 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For more information call Mikie Snyder 752-9363 Location: Depot Welcome Center » Rock n’ Roses 2010 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Keel & Curley Winery in Plant City, FL. Live music by Tampa’s own, 10th Concession! Hors doeuvres and cocktails » Turkey Shoot 10:00am-2:00pm 4618 Medulla Road Shot will be furnished. $3.00 per shoot or $5.00 for 2 shoots. Bring your own gun or use one that is on the table. 12 ga or 20 ga shotguns only. There will be a Skeet Shot at $7.50 for 15 shotsSmall Archery Shoot. » Register for the Florida Inspirational Writers Retreat 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CedarKirk Conference Center Instructors include authors Larry Leech II, Cheri Cowell, and Daphne Landers. Cost is $95, which includes lunch.

Thursday, Sept. 30th » Ribbon Cutting for Sams New Development 10:30 a.m. at 1501 South Alexander Street, Suite 102

Saturday, Oct. 2nd » Bike Fest 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Motorcycle

Show, Contest, Vendors, Live Bands and tons of fun. Main Stage at the Depot (Palmer/Drane) Call 813-7543707 for more information. Location: Historic Downtown Plant City

Friday, Oct. 8th » PLANT CITY LIONS CLUB is holding their Annual golf tournament at the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club. This tournament is always a fun outing with plenty of food and beverages. Funds raised will benefit both local and international programs for those who have lost their sight. There will be plenty of giveaways, raffle prizes and trophies. For additional information or to register, call Steve Nierman at 813757-1205.

Wednesday, Oct. 13th » Contact Breakfast 7:30-9:00am Red Rose Inn & Suites Ball Room Each month with a different sponsor, speaker, good egg, and a cashpot drawing.

Wednesday, Oct. 16th » Che 2010 General Election Candidate Forum 5:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. This is a free event designed to educate voters of Eastern Hillsborough County as well as introduce the Plant City faith community to the candidates running for Federal, State, and County races in the November 2nd election. All candidates, regardless of their party affiliation or political views, running for any public office on the national, state or local level in Eastern Hillsborough County have been invited to come and meet with the citizens that they wish to represent. For more info call 813-436-7652.

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