Summer Bucket List 2013

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PLANT CITY

Observer

112160

2013

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

SUMMER BUCKET LIST Michael Eng

When we first began discussing a concept for a summer magazine, our initial thoughts — quite naturally — turned to seasonal fun. Of course, for anyone under age 18, these two-and-one-half months are the best days of the entire year, chock full of lazy hours at the pool, weekends at the beach and afternoons with

friends sans homework.

Sure, this magazine would have been fine with a simple list of area attractions and “things to do.” But, as we churned deeper down into the summertime rabbit hole, we realized we had an opportunity to create something much better. And when Advertising Executive Veronica Prostko texted me

the words, “Summer Bucket List,” the entire concept of this guide snapped into focus.

I am thrilled to present to you the Plant City Observer’s 2013 Summer Bucket List.

What you hold here is our special take on a guide to the summer season. Of course, this list includes plenty of ideas and activities for family fun. But, we also wanted to feature some more important items that you may have overlooked. Summer is a perfect time to check off

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some of those “to-do” items.

If you have children, have you prepared a will? If you have pets, have their future needs been considered? Do you need to have a complete diagnostic performed on your car? On yourself?

As we steamroll into summer, I hope you keep this guide with you throughout the season and find at least a few things on our Summer Bucket List to check off.

— Michael Eng, managing editor

LEARN TO PLAY AN INSTRUMENT

ROCKETS’ RED GLARE

Last year, Plant City brought back its July 4 Celebration — much to the delight of the community. The tradition will continue again this year. Presented by the Plant City Recreation and Parks Department, the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and the Florida Strawberry Festival, this year’s celebration will be from 6 to 9:30 p.m. July 4, at Plant City Stadium, 1900 S. Park Road, Plant City. The 2013 event, made possible by the presenting organizations, as well as business partners such as the Plant City Observer, will feature live music, activities for kids, food vendors and a military salute. The evening will conclude with a spectacular fireworks show, beginning at 9:15 p.m. Gates open at 5:45 p.m.

Admission is free; parking is $5.

For more, call (813) 659-4255 or visit plantcitygov. com.

SUMMER BUCKET LIST 3

PAMPER YOURSELF

It’s summer vacation. That means relaxation. What better way to relax than taking a yoga class? Yoga is a great way to stretch, increase circulation and tone. The Room (110 W. Reynolds St., Plant City; theroompc.com) offers a variety of yoga classes for beginners to avid practitioners. Four instructors teach classes that serve different purposes, such as building strength and stamina (power yoga) or cleaning the mind (meditation classes). The Plant City YMCA (1507 YMCA Place, Plant City; (813) 757-6677) also offers yoga classes; and Plant City spas, such as Tip to Toe Day Spa & Gifts (101 S. Alexander St., Plant City; (813) 759-8637) and Remedi Spa (511 W. Alexander St., Plant City, (813) 752-2433) can whisk you away from all your troubles.

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Whether you want to simply play “Chopsticks” on the piano or become the next Buddy Rich on the drums, it all starts with the basics. The benefits of learning an instrument are vast: increasing memory capacity, enhancing coordination, boosting self esteem, honing mathematical skills and much more. Lessons are available for children, teens and adults at Plant City’s First Baptist Church’s School of Music and Arts (503 N. Palmer St., Plant City; (813) 7504878). And who knows? It could be an introduction that becomes a lifelong love. Already play an instrument?

Check out Bailey Acoustic Shop, (104 W. Reynolds St., Suite 6, Plant City; (813) 390-4796) and Dove Music Center, (104 W. Reynolds St., Suite 8, (813) 7649002).

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SUMMER BUCKET LIST 2013

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SHAKE IT

SUPPORT ASPIRING ARTISTS

The strawberry season has come to a close, but that doesn’t mean sweetness has left Plant City.

There are plenty of places to grab a frozen treat to cool you off on a hot summer day. Try Plant City’s local Sonic (2901 James L. Redman Parkway, Plant City; (813) 754-0300), which offers a plethora of milkshakes, limeades and slushies on its menu. Of course, if you’re visiting Plant City for the first time, both Parkesdale Farm Market (3702 W. Baker St., Plant City; (813) 752-0502) and Strawberry Hut (1505 N. Wheeler St., Plant City; (813) 752-3779) feature the Strawberry Capital of the World’s famous strawberry milkshakes.

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PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

If you’ve attended any Plant City community event in the last few years, chances are, you’ve already seen NRG perform. Now, the youth performing group has a chance to perform in the Big Apple, but it needs your help. NRG has been invited to perform in a revolutionary show, “Feather,” this summer, at the New York Musical Theater Festival. The show combines live art, film, current events, charity and an updated story line each night. Running soldout shows in Australia last summer, the creative team of Charleene Closshey and Jeremy Culver have created a remarkably engaging, innovative

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show experience. NRG is seeking donations to help pay for the kids’ travel expenses. For more information or to make a donation, visit the group’s website, pcnrg.com, and click on the link at the top of the page.

VISIt our neWly renoVateD, StateoF-tHe-art FaCIlIty...

Plant City Family Care appointments & Walk-Ins Welcome Weekdays Including Saturdays 8:00 am to 2:00 pm

Suncoast Community Health Centers, Inc. (A Federally Qualified Community Health Center)

• Dental, Digital X-Ray, Lab • New – Pharmacy on Site We are pleaSeD to oFFer...

• One-Stop Shopping (medical & dental visits, radiology, lab and pharmacy) • Medicaid and Hillsborough County Healthcare Plans Accepted • Medicare Recipients welcome

508 N. Maryland Ave. • Plant City, FL 33563

• See Website for Other Insurance Plans

For InFormatIon 813.349.7600 For appoIntment 813.349.7610 For Dental 813.349.7635

• Sliding Fee Scale Based on Family Income for Families with No Insurance

mon-FrI 8am-5pm 111182

• Medical, Family Practice, Internal Medicine, OB/GYN

Sat 8am-2pm

tue 8am-7pm

www.Suncoast-chc.org We are a local, non-profit clinic providing affordable primary health care to our community for 27 years.

We offer competitively-priced medical and dental services, discount pharmacy for our patients, x-ray and lab on site.

• All Staff Physicians and Dentists are Board Eligible or Board Certified • Accredited by AAAHC (Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care) • Se Habla Español

2013

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

SUMMER BUCKET LIST 5

MAKE IT A EVALUATE YOUR FINANCES DATE NIGHT

Sure, gigantic IMAX screens, 3D glasses and surround-sound speakers are all the rage, but nothing could ever replicate the unique experience of taking in a flick at a drive-in theater. The Silver Moon Drive-In Theatre (4100 New Tampa Highway, Lakeland; (863) 682-0849) has been in operation for six decades and is the only remaining drive-in theater in Polk County. The theater features two screens that each show a double feature every night. Guests receive the audio through the FM radio in their vehicles. For more information or to view the latest schedule, visit silvermoondrivein.com.

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Whether you are a homeowner or are thinking about becoming one, low interest rates and home-buying programs can help you achieve your dreams. Qualified buyers can take advantage of low — or no — down-payment requirements on certain loans, and current homeowners can refinance to lower interest rates or take advantage of the equity in their homes. Even if home ownership isn’t in your immediate future, opening a savings account now can help you plan for when that day comes.

Stop by one of Plant City’s financial institutions, including CenterState Bank (305 S. Wheeler St., Plant City; (813) 759-2265) and Sunshine State Federal Savings (102 W. Baker St., Plant City; (813) 752-6193) to see what is available. Furthermore, a certified public accountant, such as Myers & Wright (110 W. Reynolds St., Suite 110; (813) 707-8838), can help you create a financial strategy plan or estate plan for your household.

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Personal Service • Low Prices • Great Selection

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SUMMER BUCKET LIST 2013

PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

BLAZE NEW TRAILS Put down that remote control or video game controller and enjoy nature on one of the many trails in our community.

Edward Medard Regional Park (6140 Edward Medard Parkway, Plant City) features a 3-mile trail for hikers and equestrians. The Morris Bridge Biking Area at Wilderness Regional Park (12573 Morris Bridge Road, Thonotosassa) offers hiking, biking and walking trails. Walden Lake residents have access to several trails in their community, as well.

For a complete list of trails, visit hillsborough county.org/ facilities.aspx.

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PURSUE

PALATE PLEASERS From barbecue and country cookin’ to Italian and seafood, Plant City residents have plenty of dining options. Best of all, many of them — including Esposito Pizza (2803 James L. Redman Parkway, Suite 7, Plant City; (813) 704-5971), Fred’s Southern Kitchen (1401 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Plant City; (813) 752-7763) and Daisy Dukes Grille, (2212 James L. Redman Parkway, (813) 7522700) — aren’t chains but rather unique Plant City destinations owned and operated by our very own locals. This summer, break away from the chains and your three or four go-to eateries and sample some of the other restaurants Plant City offers. Who knows? You CSBPlantCityClrAd043013:Layout 1 4/30/13 12:58 PM Page 1 may find a new favorite to add to your family’s menu.

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

1805 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City 33563

1805 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City 33563

Now Enrolling CosmEtologists BARBERs NAil tEChs

Now Enrolling BARBERS NAIL TECHS COSMETOLOGISTS

Now Open to the Public

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Mens Barber cuts $5.00 P l a$10.00 nt City Of fice Ladies Cut wash and Style from Flexible schedules and Financing S. $15.00 Wheeler Street • Plant City, FL 33563 Chemical Services305 from 813 752 4247 813.759.2265 Flexible schedules and Financing Manicure and Pedicures from $8.00 www.focus4beauty.com We accept Transfer Students from other institutions | Home Equity Line of Credit | Mobile Home Loans Completely Call 813 752 4247Free toChecking schedule 813 752for4247 Licensed by the Florida Commission your appointment.

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2013

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

SUMMER BUCKET LIST 7

IT’S NEVER TOO JUST FOR KICKS EARLY TO EDUCATE Summer is a great time to give even your littlest ones some new experiences. Schools such as Kimberly’s Infant Care and Preschool (605 S.W. Drane St., Plant City; (813) 757-0546) offer a chance for younger children to develop social skills, grossand fine-motor skills and more. Many also offer special summer program that includes water and outdoor play, field trips and the arts. As an added bonus, parents can get some well-deserved time to relax (i.e. do chores or shopping in complete peace)!

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Nothing says summer like a night out at a stadium or the ballpark. And, you don’t have to travel far to get this experience.

Plant City Stadium, (1810 E. Park Road, Plant City), the former spring training home of the Cincinnati Reds, is now the home of VSI Tampa Bay FC, a professional soccer team in the United Soccer League. Some of the best young players from throughout the world showcase their talents at games.

Tickets are $10 for adults and just $5 for kids, making it an affordable and fun family outing. For a complete game schedule, visit VSI’s website, vsi-fc.com.

Florida’s newest destination shop in the historic district of Plant City.

www.inspirequilting.com Sewing, Quilting, Embroidery & More... Check Out Our Website for Classes

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—Lynn Haberl, owner

101 N. Collins Street • Plant City, FL 33563 • 813.704.4867

Authorized Brother Dealer

SUMMER BUCKET LIST 2013

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PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

HIT THE LINKS CAST A LINE 1 2

What better way to spend a bright, sunny summer day than on the bank of a nearby lake or pond? The reservoir at Edward Medard Regional Park (6140 Edward Medard Parkway, Plant City) is a great fishing spot for anglers of all ages. The 700acre reservoir is open for catch-and-release fishing, as well as canoeing and boating. Other fishing holes in the Plant City area include the Lithia Springs Preserve, in Valrico, and the Rhodine Scrub Preserve/Stephen J. Wortham Park, in Riverview. For a full list of fishing spots in the area, visit hillsboroughcounty.org/facilities. aspx. And before you head out to the water, stop by Pinecrest Bait and Tackle, corner of County Road 39 and Thompson Road, south of Alderman’s Ford Park; (813) 737-1213) to stock up on fishing supplies.

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Whether it’s your putting, chipping or driving that needs the most attention, work on your golf game this summer at Walden Lake Golf and Country Club (2001 Clubhouse Drive, Plant City; (813) 752-1171) — Plant City’s only golf course. The facility is open to the public and offers 36 holes on two distinctly different courses — Hills (par-72, 6,530 yards) and Lakes (par-72, 6,561 yards).

The club offers competitive rates along with scenic views, a 27,000-squarefoot clubhouse, with snacks and a full-service bar, and a practice facility, with a driving range and practice greens.

2013

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

POP SHOVE-IT

MAKE A BIG

SPLASH

Unleash your inner Tony Hawk this summer at the Plant City Skate Park. Spend the summer months catching some air and learning tricks at the 8,520-square-foot Plant City Skate Park (1748 E. Sansone Blvd., Plant City).

Built in 2004 at Mike E. Sansone Park, the skate park offers modular components professionally designed by Spohn. The layout includes a half-pipe, quarter-pipe and banked wedge with a four-foot deck, a three-sided pyramid with full planter, standard fun box with halfkinked grind rail, and a fun box with a half-planter.

Annual passes ($25) are available at the Recreation and Parks Department administrative office, 1904 S. Park Road. Day passes ($3) are available at the skate park during operating hours. All skaters must complete a registration form and sign a waiver.

It’s about tradition.

Since its inception, the principle of the game of baseball has remained virtually unchanged.

813.752.4155 AGENCY NAME

fine independent insurance agents representing Auto-Owners.

Auto-Owners Insurance is ranked “Highest in Customer Satisfaction with the Auto Insurance Claims Experience, Five Years in a Row” according to J.D. Power and Associates.

Auto-Owners Insurance ranks highest among auto insurance providers in the J.D. Power and Associates 2008-2012 Auto Claims StudiesSM. 2012 study based on 12,508 total responses, ranking 26 insurance providers. Excludes those with claims only for glass/windshield, theft/stolen, roadside assistance or bodily injury claims. Proprietary results based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed November 2011-September 2012. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com.

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503 W.Insurance, Dr.we’reMartin Blvd.

At Auto-Owners about tradition too.Luther Since our beginning King in 1916, we’ve Jr. stood behind our commitment to provide industry-leading insurance service through the best independent insurance Plant City, FL 33563 agents in the industry. For all of your life, home, car and business insurance needs, contact one of these

At Auto-Owners Insurance, we’re about tradition too. Since our beginning in 1916, we’ve stood behind our commitment to provide industry-leading insurance service through the best independent insurance agents in the industry. For all of your life, home, car and business insurance needs, contact one of these fine independent insurance agents representing Auto-Owners.

AGENCY NAME

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2012. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com.

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Since its inception, the principle of the game of baseball has remained virtually unchanged.

What summer list would be complete without some wet and wild fun? McCormick’s Waterski, Wakeboard and Cable Park (2020 McCormick Lakes Way, Seffner; (813) 681-4441) offers the unique experience of cable wakeboarding.

The facility has a plethora of equipment for rent if you don’t have your own. The park also offers lessons for newbies, a kids summer camp and more. For more, visit skimccormick.com.

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It’s about tradition.

SUMMER BUCKET LIST 9

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SUMMER BUCKET LIST 2013

PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

IT’S FUN TO STAY AT THE ...

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Think of a fun activity.

Chances are, the Plant City YMCA (1507 YMCA Place, Plant City; (813) 757-6677) has a summer camp or program to match it. The summer day camp runs from June 10 to Aug. 16 and features a fun theme each week, including “Under the Sea,” “Wild, Wild West” and “Gettin’

Dirty.” Campers will enjoys arts and crafts, sports, games, swimming, and small- and largegroup activities. The camp runs from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day and offers free breakfast and lunch for participants. The YMCA also offers an E.P.I.C. Teen Camp. Day camp clinic options include aquatic safety, drama, sports and more.

PLAY WAR GAMES If you get a warm and fuzzy feeling from watching movies such as “Rambo” or “Platoon,” paintball may be for you! Orbital Paintball (12771 U.S. 301 N., Thonotosassa;

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(813) 672-4825) offers a forest-themed battle zone for paintball action. Gather a group and battle it out with your friends, or better yet — your enemies. Cost is $35 per person for groups

of less than 10 or individuals; or $25 per person for groups of 10 or more. Both include all-day play, rentals for paintball marker and mask, field fees, all-day air/CO2 and a bag of 500 paintballs.

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THE GREAT OUTDOORS Of course, no summer would be complete without some unforgettable outdoor experiences. Luckily for Plant City residents, Central Florida is chock full of unique opportunities,

including canoeing, kayaking, fishing and much more. And even if you aren’t the adventurous type, who could resist a good, old-fashioned summertime barbecue?

The Hay Exchange (4950 U.S. 92 W., Plant City; (813) 754-5405) stocks a wide variety of supplies to ensure a season packed with fun and time with family and friends.

TAKE IN A SHOW In January, the rights to the popular musical “Les Miserables” were released for the first time to community theaters operating in the United States. Plant City Entertainment (101 N. Thomas St., Plant City; (813 6778045) will bring Victor Hugo’s masterpiece to Plant City July 19

through Aug. 3. Plant City Entertainment will be the first community theater in Central Florida to perform the show.

Tickets are $10 for members; $12 for senior citizens and students; and $14 for nonmembers. For more information, visit pce-inc.com.

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2013

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

MASTER

ASSESS YOUR

HEALTH

There is no better time than the present to make a complete assessment of your health. If you haven’t done so in a while, make an appointment for an annual physical exam. Then, use those results to identify some preventative measures you can take.

Brandon Regional Hospital (3065 James L. Redman Parkway, Plant City; (813) 6815551), South Florida Baptist Hospital (301 N. Alexander St., Plant City; (813) 757-1200), JSA Medical Group (1001 E. Baker St., Suite 400; (813) 708-0164) and Plant City Family Care (508 N. Maryland Ave., Plant City; (813) 349-7600) are here to serve the community.

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MARTIAL ARTS

If you have some free time this summer and want something fun to do for yourself or for your children, why not learn martial arts? Chris Welbon Karate (602 S. Collins St.; (813) 752-9800) offers classes for young children to adults, as well as self-defense classes for women. For all the UFC fans out there, Champions MMA (1701 S. Alexander St.; (813) 704-4841), offers several disciplines, in including Brazilian Jujitsu, mixed martial arts and kickboxing. Champions MMA also offer several kids programs, including summer camps.

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Applying for jobs can be difficult and time consuming. But with Express Employment Professionals, finding the right job is easy. Our professional recruiters have the solutions to meet your needs.

Call, come in, or go online today to see what Express can do for you.

(863) 535-1318 1805 US Highway 98 South Suite A and C Lakeland, FL 33801

112510

C.J. Marcello, Jr., Owner

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SUMMER BUCKET LIST 2013

BECAUSE I

SAID SEW

Remember those home-economics classes you blew off in middle school?

Well, now is your chance to redeem yourself. Inspire! Quilting and Sewing (101 N. Collins St., Plant City; (813) 704-4867) offers many classes in sewing and quilting, including the “I Can’t Believe I’m Sewing” class designed specifically for beginners. The shop also offers beginners embroidery, intermediate piecing and a special “Girls Nite Out” gathering, during where you can bring your own project and work in a circle. For more, visit inspirequiltingandsewing.com.

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PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

HAVE SOME 2 3

FAITHFUL FUN

Dozens of Plant City churches will celebrate the season with their own summer programs. The programs all feature plenty of themed faithful fun for children of all ages — complete with art projects, performances, outdoor activities and much more.

This summer, First Baptist Church Midway (2902 Midway Road, Plant City; (813) 752-7209) will go Back 2 Basics with its program from July 15 to 19; Plant City’s First

Baptist Church will host Colossal Coaster World from 6 to 9 p.m. June 17 to 21; and Hope Lutheran Church (2001 N. Park Road, Plant City; (813) 752-4622) will offer Kingdom Rock from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

July 29 to Aug. 2.

Eastside Baptist Church (1318 Calhoun St., Plant City; (813) 7542681), will welcome children to its Hot Summer Friday Nights from 7 to 9 p.m. Fridays, in July. There are many more available; check your preferred church for more information.

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Every Now Enrolling Friday BARBERS 1805 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City 33563 Now Open to the Public in July NAIL TECHS Open tocutsthe Mens Barber $5.00Public COSMETOLOGISTS 7:00 to 9:00 pm Cutcuts wash and Style from $10.00 Mens Ladies Barber $5.00 Flexible schedules and Financing 1805 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City 33563

813 752 4247thru 5th grade Kids finishing Kindergarten

www.focus4beauty.com • Eastside Baptist Family Life Center gym and gameroom Licensed by the Florida Commission for Independent • Must have signed parent permission slip with contact infoEducation

• Games, devotion time, Christian crafts, snacks & music Eastside Baptist Church 1318 E. Calhoun Street Plant City, FL 33563 813-754-2681

Manicure and Pedicures from $8.00 Chemical Services from $15.00

Call and 813 752 4247 to schedule Manicure Pedicures from $8.00 your appointment.

www.focus4beauty.com

Call 813 752 4247 to

schedule your appointment.

Licensed by the Florida Commission for Independent Education

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• Children must sign in and check out by parents/guardian

Services from $15.00 LadiesChemical Cut wash and Style from $10.00

2013

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PAMPER YOUR RIDE

WE CAN WORK IT OUT

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in Florida is at its lowest since October 2008. For those still searching for work, jobs are becoming available, and companies such as Express Employment Professionals of Lakeland (1805 U.S. 98 S., Lakeland; (863) 535-1318) can help link prospective employees with available work throughout the area.

Furthermore, schools such as Focus 4 Beauty Career Center (1805 James L. Redman Parkway, Plant City; (813) 752-4247) offer classes to help train you for a different career opportunity.

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You know that painting project you’ve been putting off? How about that unsightly stain in the garage? Or that backyard oasis you’ve been promising your spouse? Whether the project is as simply as a leaky faucet or complex as a kitchen renovation, make at least one improvement to your home this summer. Local advice and supplies are available at Grimes Hardware Center (3161 Paul Buchman Highway, Plant City; (813) 759-0851), and as the real-estate market continues to recover, improvements to your home remain a worthy investment.

Mangiare bene per vivere bene!

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2803 James L Redman Pwky., Ste. 7 Plant City, FL 33566

(Eat well to live well)

813-704-5971 Homemade Meat Lasagna

& Preschool

Fresh Flounder Mediterranean Served with Salad and Bruschetta

CaLL For Summer sPecials

• TumbLIng • WaTer PLay • arTS & CraFTS • bounCe HouSeS

Just as preventative medicine can help keep your body and mind healthy, regular preventative maintenance will help keep your vehicle cruising down the road.

As temperatures continue to rise into the high 90s, make sure you’re changing your oil when necessary. Furthermore, monitor your fluids, spark plugs, radiator, hoses and air filters. Simple steps now, available at auto shops such as Plant City Tire and Auto Services (302 N. Palmer St., Plant City; (813) 752-2388) and the service shop at Jarrett-Scott Ford (2000 E. Baker St., Plant City; (813) 990-0320) will keep your engine purring. Most importantly, it will keep your vehicle safe for your family. If it’s too late to pamper your current vehicle, check out the selection of both new and used models at Stingray Chevrolet (2002 N. Frontage Road, Plant City; (813) 704-2092).

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BE A WEEKEND WARRIOR

Kimberly’s

SUMMER BUCKET LIST 13

605 Southwest Drane Street • Plant City, FL 33563 www. KimberlysInfantCare.com • 813.757.0546

112291

aPProved vPK

Family owned & operated

113409

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SUMMER BUCKET LIST 2013

PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

HORSING

AROUND

It’s no secret that one of Plant City’s favorite pastimes is equestrian sports.

Surrounded by beautiful pastures, it’s the perfect town to pick up the hobby.

Multiple farms and facilities offer horseback riding lessons. Turkey Creek Stables (5534 Turkey Creek Road, Plant City; (813) 737-1312) offers Summer Horse Camp for children and adults. Trinity

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Equestrian Center at Stafford Hill Farm (6002 Stafford Road, Plant City; (813) 9868842) and Hidden Meadows Farms (8231 S. C.R. 39 Plant City; (813) 777-2061) both offer lessons. For those who know how to ride, R&R Ranch (9805 Bryant Road, Lithia; (813) 653-3819) offers fun days from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Enjoy a trail ride and learning about horses.

LEARN TO

SHOOT

Whether you are a trained marksman, a gun enthusiast or someone who simply is interested in having personal protection, gun ranges in Plant City — including Plant City Gun Range (711 S. Collins St.; (813) 757-6064) and The Range Plant City (1105 Goldfinch Drive; (813) 659-2140) can help. The Plant City Gun Range also offers several gun-safety and training classes, including concealed weapon permits and National Rifle Association safety courses. So, whether you have never held a gun before or want to try out the newest addition to your gun collection, visit a local gun range and hone in on your inner marksman.

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Plant City EntErtainmEnt, inC.

Help NRG get to NYC!

Presents a new Production of BOUBUl and SCHónBErG’S.

Performance Dates:

Help us realize our dream to perform in NYC

July 19, 20, 25, 26, 27 and 28 Aug. 1, 2 & 3 All performances at: 101 N. Thomas Street Plant City More information at:

113576

Reaching for our dream in NYC: June 30-July 19, 2013

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www.pce-inc.com

w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / p c n r g

Les Misérables is licensed by Music Theatre International (MTI) by arrangement with CAMERON MACKINTOSH LTD.

1/2 PRICE SHAKES AFTER 8pm ~ Open ‘til midnight or later ~

sonicdrivein.com

112808

111776

2901 Jim Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33566

2013

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

LEND A

SUMMER BUCKET LIST 15

PLAN FOR HELPING HAND THE FUTURE Spending a few hours a week volunteering is a perfect way to make a difference in our community. Lighthouse Ministries (215 E. Magnolia St., Lakeland; (863) 687-4076), a Christian-based organization that assists atrisk individuals, offers tours of its facilities from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.

Lighthouse Ministries runs a variety of services to help those in need, including providing meals and shelter to homeless men and after-school programs for children. A thrift store is also a part of the ministries, with a satellite store in Plant City.

United Food Bank of Plant City (702 E. Alsobrook St., Plant City; (813) 764-0625) also is always looking for volunteers.

No one want to think about his or her death, but making plans now could be one of the best gifts you could give your loved ones. If you haven’t yet done so, consider a life insurance policy, available through companies such as Poppell Insurance (503 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.; (813-7524155) and State Farm Insurance (Courtney Paat: 1805 James L Redman Parkway, Suite 101, Plant City; (813) 754-1725; or Tony Lee: 1702 S. Alexander St., Suite 1, Plant City; (813) 752-7202). Furthermore, prearranging your funeral or cremation not only allows you to have input on your service but also takes emotional and financial stress off your family. Haught Funeral Home (708 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Plant City; (813) 717-9300) can assist you with your prearrangements and can even do it in the comfort of your own home, if you prefer.

2 9

Get Back

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2

July4

Basics

2013

Celebration

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VBS

6 to 9:30 p.m. | Plant City stadium | 1810 e. Park road, Plant City

Presented by

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6:30 to 8 p.m.

July 15 to 19

The City of Plant City Recreation and Parks Department The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce The Florida Strawberry Festival

First Baptist Church Midway | 2902 Midway Rd., Plant City | 813.752.7209

Parking oPen at 5:45 p.m.

MYERS & WRIGHT, PA

GrAnd Fireworks show Begins at 9:15 p.m.

Certified Public Accountants

Carole R. Wright

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110 W. Reynolds St., Suite 110 Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 707-8838 www.myersandwright.com carole@myersandwright.com

Live musiC Fun For the kids Food vendors miLitary saLute

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CPA

$5 Free Admission

For more information, visit www.plantcitygov.com | Call (813) 659 - 4255

Serving Plant City and East Hillsborough County

A Funeral can be many things to many people. Please share with us what you would like it to be. Contact Haught Funeral Home to pre-plan your Funeral, Memorial Service or Cremation.

Family Owned & Operated.

David W. Wolf, Owner • Timothy J. Haught, Founder

708 W. Dr. M.L. King Jr. Blvd. • Plant City, FL 33563

813-717-9300 • www.haughtfuneralhome.com

112685

We honor all existing pre-need funeral arrangements.