FOCUS Plant City 03-07 July 2004

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 3

As II attended attended the the memorial memorial service service for for Connie Connie Yerger’s Yerger’s husband, husband, As Scott, I realized how very short life is.

He was 41 and was killed in in aa Scott, I realized how very short life is. He was 41 and was killed car accident.

They had just adopted two wonderful sons when it car accident. They had just adopted two wonderful sons when it happened. A day likelike anyany other day,day, andand in one moment, Connie’s life,life, and happened.

A day other in one moment, Connie’s the lives of her children, were changed forever. and the lives of her children, were changed forever. made me me think think about about opportunities opportunities and and how, how, when when they they come come along, along, ItIt made you have to jump at them.

How you should live your life as happy as you have to jump at them. How you should live your life as happy as you can be and root out what causes you unhappiness.

And how the you can be and root out what causes you unhappiness. And how the actions that that you you take take should should reflect reflect on on you you and and those those around around you you posiactions tively ….because life is too short. positively ….because life is too short.

It is with sad regret that I inform the readers that I will no longer be editor of Focus Magazine. demands of Itserving is with as sadmanaging regret that I inform the readers that IThe will no longer be motherhood and family are starting to place themselves at a higher serving as managing editor of Focus Magazine. The demands of priority in myand life.family As I watched Cooper takethemselves her first steps, realized motherhood are starting to place at aIhigher that this is an opportunity and I don’t want to miss a thing. priority in my life. As I watched Cooper take her first steps, I realized that this is an opportunity and I don’t want to miss a thing.

I thank you for all of your compliments and support, and would like to andallDede for compliments giving me such incredible Ithank thankMike you for of your andansupport, andopportunity would like to to do something that I love.

They took a chance on me when I had no thank Mike and Dede for giving me such an incredible opportunity to experience. haveI love. learned a lottook of new skills that will when always be with do somethingI that They a chance on me I had no me.

I have really enjoyed being a part of the Focus family. experience. I have learned a lot of new skills that will always be with me. I have really enjoyed being a part of the Focus family. have met met so so many many new new people people and and learned learned so so much much about about our our comII have munity and how fortunate we are to live in this great little city.

I have community and how fortunate we are to live in this great little city.

I no doubt that this magazine will get better and better with the support have no doubt that this magazine will get better and better with the of the community. support of the community.

This issue, issue, as as usual, usual, isis packed packed with with wonderful wonderful stories stories of of life life in in Plant Plant This City.

Be sure to check out the feature on the Train Depot, and the City. Be sure to check out the feature on the Train Depot, and the interview with Al Berry. interview with our very own Olympic competitor, Brooke Bennett.

Again, thank you for all of your support and “For the last time Again, thank you for all of your support and “For the last time alalready!”….Happy Reading! ready!”….Happy Reading!

Thank You Plant City for putting 50 years of trust in us!

Plant City • Main Office, 102 W. Baker St. , 752-6193 Walden Woods • 2400 Jim Redman Plant City • 754-1844

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 6

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Focus Magazine 1st annual Bahama cruise, August 27-30, 2004.

Come cruise with us and get away from your every day stress. To reserve your room, please call Cruise One at 813-643-4532. Last call for fun for all!!!!!!!

Entrepreneurs Tim & Carol Weathersbee are the owners of Encore Closets. Inc, and are here to help you get organized. Encore Closets, Inc. is a new business in Plant City specializing in customized closet systems. Customizing your closet increases your storage space by adding shelves, baskets, drawers, and much more. Encore Closets, Inc. offers affordable closet and luxury systems and everything in between. For more information, call Tim or Carol at 813-956-1051.

Caycee Hampton, an upcoming senior at Plant City High School, was selected as a delegate to attend “Girls State” at Florida State University, the week of June 14th. From that delegation Caycee was elected Commissioner of Agriculture out of 300 delegates. Only six girls received positions. She will be inaugurated at our State Capital along with meeting Charles Bronson, our State Commissioner of Agriculture. Caycee has won state and national competitions in public speaking from the FFA, Optimist and Rotary clubs. Way to go, Caycee. For more information, contact Sharon Ours at 813-763-0856.

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The First Baptist Church of Midway would like to invite you to join their 50+ (we actually welcome any and all adults!)on a trip to North Carolina from September 11th through the 18th. The cost is $500 each for a double occupancy or $550 for a single occupancy. This includes hotel/motel accommodations, transportation, shows and some meals.

It will be a great time of Bible study, fellowship sightseeing and, of course, shopping. For more information, please call the church office at 813-752-7209.

In June, a recent Durant High School graduate, Melissa Hinton, was elected to serve as President of the Florida FFA Association. She will postpone college attendance for one year in order to represent the Florida FFA during the upcoming year. As State President Melissa will have the opportunity to travel to Washington D.C. this summer for a Leadership Conference, where she will meet President Bush. Melissa graduated from Durant High School with a 5.1 grade point average.

Congratulations, Melissa!

Michelle Courcelle has been certified as a Tactical Master Instructor in the CDT method of Non-Deadly Force and Family Protection. For more information, you may contact her at Pong Lai Martial Arts Training Center, 1852-1854 Jim Redman Pkwy, or you may call her at 813719-9892.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 7

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Local Teen Gives Back to Community

Andrew Wilson earns Eagle Scout rank

For seventeen year old Andrew Wilson, the time had finally come to do his service project in order to earn his Eagle Scout rank, an honor that only approximately one percent of all boy scouts achieve.

Finally, after much preparation, on May 17th Andrew hosted a fishing derby for mentally challenged youth in the area. In order to put on this event he called upon help from many organizations around the community. Although some claimed that they were unable to be of assistance, he still found support from multiple businesses. Harold’s Outdoor Products provided most of the equipment for them to fish, Felton’s provided hot dogs, Pepperidge Farms provided buns, and various other businesses donated door prizes. The local chap-

ter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF), the Limb Hangers, was of great assistance to Andrew because they helped him plan the details of the day and donated $250. The NWTF has a reach out project they do called “Wheelin’ Sportsmen” where they take anyone with a disability of any age and get them involved in outdoor activities. Therefore, they had plenty of experience and were able to help Andrew make sure this day was as great as it could be.

Eventually, all of Andrew’s hard work paid off and the derby was a wonderful success. There were disabled children there from ages nine to nineteen. Andrew was able to provide them with all the equipment, lunch, door prizes and ribbons. The event was held at Tenorock Park in Lakeland. Some of the children had never even been fishing before.

They caught tiny fish and even caught bass as large as seven or eight pounds. “It was an overall success,” said Andrew. Andrew Wilson is an incoming senior at Plant City High School. Not only is he involved in Boy Scouts but is on the football team and in Best Buddies, too. He started as a Cub Scout in 1994 and has been a Boy Scout since 1999. He is in Eagle Scout Troop 14 out of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Plant City. His scout master is Gary Sawyer. Andrew’s older brother became an Eagle Scout too. Not only is it an honor within itself but it is highly respected by colleges and businesses. Andrew is looking forward to October 16th, when he will attend the Eagle Scout Ceremony.

“Working with the impaired is just a passion I have. My advice to you is don’t be scared or avoid the handicapped, they’re so nice,” said Andrew, reflecting on the experience. Andrew said it would be very likely that he would hold another event similar to this one, even though there would be no benefit for him. Andrew’s mom, Linda Wilson, was his biggest help overall. Looking back on the derby she said, “It was an amazing day.”

The day was a great success and in Andrew’s words, “It was perfect.”

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 8

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 9

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Chamber of Commerce By: BRUCE RODWELL

We want to keep the Plant City community and Eastern Hillsborough County informed of events and items of interest that take place in our area. If you or your organization have an event of function planned that you want the community to know about, please call the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce office at 813-757-3707 and we will place it on our community calendar.

Were you among the crowd that attended the Plant City Archives event entitled “An Evening of Picture Perfect Memories”? This event was held on June 19 th. at the Red Rose Ball Room at the Ramada Inn. What a wonderful event this was. On display were pictures of Plant City’s distant and not so distant past. Ed Verner, along with Gil Gott and Betty Patton and a very capable group of volunteers went out of their way to make this a huge success.

There was a “Best of Broadway” musical presentation performed by Omar Almodovar and Vivian Padron and the evening was capped off with a presentation of the first annual Heritage Award. This was presented to D. E. Bailey, Jr. After receiving a beautiful plaque from Ed Verner, Mr. Bailey spoke to the audience about his love of Plant City that he has enjoyed through seven decades as an educator and historian. It was a wonderful “cap” to a great evening. You might want to mark your calendars for next years Photo Archives presentation. The date has already been set.

It will take place June 4 th. Plan to attend.

It’s a wonderful experience and is sure to bring back many memories. Information can be obtained by calling 813-752-1442.

How about the Plant City High School Senior Class of 2004? In the ongoing tradition to give something to Principal Buddy Raburn, the Executive Council of the Senior Class decided that a dollar would be given by each student and the money would be donated to a local charity. The class voted overwhelmingly to donate the money to The Spring of East Hillsborough County. A total of $499.00 was collected. There were 449 graduating students, so some of them donated more than a dollar. Great job students. You make us proud. I know Mary Weiss of the Spring of East Hillsborough was very grateful for the donation. The Spring is a domestic violence center. They provide services for survivors, offenders and children of domestic violence. A program they offered for the first time this year was called “Love Shouldn’t Hurt” and this program was geared toward Plant City’s middle and high school students.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 10

Did you know there is a Literacy Task Force forming in Plant City? This group envisions Plant City as a community in which reading is valued for its many benefits and in which the literacy rate of its population is among the highest in the state. By pursuing this Vision, Plant City and its residents will benefit economically, culturally, politically and socially.

The Task Force plans to invite schools, libraries, churches, social service organizations, the business community and the City’s government to adopt this Vision and to participate in reaching it. There are several individuals working together to get this cooperative literacy project underway. They include Paula Sedita, Jennifer Closshey, Sylvia Miller, John McCaughey, Bruce Rodwell, Anne Haywood, Barbara Franquez, Carmen Sorondo, Lisa Bellock, Alice, Loeb, Bill Dodson and Rocky Marcus.

If this project sounds interesting to you, please call Anne Hawood at the Bruton Memorial Library, 813-757-9215. She is interested in talking with you. This has all the earmarks of becoming a most worthwhile undertaking.

Kudos to the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce softball team . They won the league Championship in a game that pitted them against the South Florida Baptist Hospital. The big game took place at the Randy Larson Softball Complex on June 21 st.

SPOTLIGHT ON NEW MEMBERS: AUNT DONNA’S BUTTERFLY GARDEN. This is a non-profit organization established for the study and preservation of butterflies.

Donna visits Plant City schools with her butterfly garden to give children a hands-on approach to the life cycle of the butterfly. She is available for children’s birthday parties as well as civic organizations Looking for a great educational program.

Donna Ashley can be reached by calling 813659-1194.

QUINTANA’S DELI, located at 111 West Reynolds Street, Plant City. John Quintana is the owner of this new deli and he is open for breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. John is also staying open late for the Bike Fest and Car Show events which take place on the first and third Saturday respectively. He offers specialty sandwiches, hoagies, wraps, soups and salads. He also does catering. You can call John at 813-754-5505.

B&B BAR-B-QUE. This family owned and operated catering service is located in Plant City. They specialize in ribs, pork, beef and burgers all bar-b-qued to perfection with that home cooked goodness. Call Barbara or Wesley at 813-846-7829 to cater your next bar-b-que complete with all the fixins.

HOMEGROWN CANDLE MARKET, located in the Arcade Building on West Reynolds Street. This great shop specializes in hand made gift baskets, wedding and party favors, jar candles and wax potpourri. They have over 40 scents to choose from.

They are open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm. You can call them at 813-757-9838.

July 17 – Strawberry Classic Car Show in downtown Plant City 4 to 9 pm.

July 17 & 18 – U.S.S.S.A. Youth State Softball Tournament (all ages) at Plant City Stadium. For more info, visit www.plantcitygov.com/rec or call 813-659-4255.

July 24 – Plant City Friends of Habitat for Humanity 1 st. annual golf tournament at Plant City Golf Club. Registration is at 10 am. Call 813-239-2242 for additional information and to sign up.

July 31 –YMCA Healthy Kids Day at the new YMCA complex, 1507 YMCA Place, Plant City. Gets underway at 11 am and goes till 2 pm. Call the “Y” at 813-7576677 for additional information.

August 7 – Summer Kids Night Out at the Plant City Planteen, 301 Dort Street. This is for children ages 5 through 12. Registration fee is $5.00 per child.

Information can be obtained by e-mailing jjenkins@plantcitygov.com or calling 813757-9166.

August 14 – Antique Street Fair and Arts & Crafts Fair at McCall Park in historic downtown Plant City. Starts at 7 am and goes till noon. Great event.

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Best in Dinner Theatre Entertainment The Rat Pack Too • July 24th,

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 11

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Bella Rosa:

A Rose By Any Other Name

A new Italian restaurant comes to Plant City

When it comes to Plant City restaurants, a rose by any other name is assured to be as beautiful as the others. Bella Rosa, literally “Beautiful Rose” in Italian, is the latest addition to downtown’s offerings in fine dining and brings not only delectable Italian cuisine, but also an ambience that will make you feel more like you’re in Florence than Florida. This taste of Italy is the most recent creation from the same people that brought to Plant City Shelby’s American Bistro and Jacob’s Java next door, and whose name is not coincidentally also Rose.

“It was just screaming Italian,” says owner Marc Rose about his decision to take on the new endeavor. With the original pressed tin ceiling and tile floor, he says that the 70-year-old building created a historic nostalgia that really did a lot of the work for them.

Rose says he hopes that bringing new opportunities for fine dining to downtown will help create more of an atmosphere for an upscale nightlife in the area.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 12

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The décor is one of simple but sophisticated class. The interior design was the creative product of Monica Clement, the same person that designed Shelby’s. “She has a wonderful gift of taking our ideas and our direction and making it work,” says owner Julie Rose. The soft illumination of hanging courtyard lights, Tuscan columns, trellised fence and bougainvillea, along with the sound of softly trickling fountains and light Italian melodies all make for a truly authentic old-world feel.

As for the food, it has been executive chef Steven Figueroa’s ambition to bring genuine Italian flavor to the Plant City area for years. “If you’re not standing over a pot stirring for seven hours, it’s not true marinara,” says Figueroa. Originally from Queens, New York, Figueroa is himself Italian, and knows what it takes to make his pasta primavera just right. “People ask me what’s my recipe,” Figueroa said. “This is my recipe: If it tastes good, I made it right.”

Along with the classic standards of spaghetti, lasagna, and chicken parmesan, the menu selections include manicotti, mussels’ marinara, and tortellini carbonara, a cheese tortellini dish with sautéed bacon and peas in Alfredo sauce. Located at 110 E. Reynolds St., Bella Rosa is now open for lunch and dinner, Tuesday through Friday, and dinner on Saturday by walk-in or reservation.

“One Motorcycle Ride That Became A Severe Pain In The Neck!”

I had constant pain at the base of my neck and shoulders and headaches for over 2 years. I guess that’s what motorcycle accidents can do to you. It was to the point where I was taking Excedrin and ibuprofen daily. Of course I knew that these weren’t helping to get rid of my pain and worse than that I knew the damaging effects they can have on your stomach. But I had been to other Doctors and even went through a rehab program right after the accident. But at the insistence of my daughter, I went to see Dr Parson.

He had helped her during her pregnancy with back and neck pain. Boy, I am glad I did. After just a few treatments I could tell that my neck pain was better and my headaches were improving. Now I am pain free as far as my neck and my headaches from the accident 2 years ago are gone. I would recommend you give Dr Parson a try, he may be able to help you get rid of your annoying aches and pains and help you feel better than you have in years!* Marty Roland

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 13

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Young People Ready to Make a Difference Bound for Louisiana, four Plant City area churches loaded up and sent their youth groups off to a summer mission camp. Eastside Baptist, Shiloh Baptist, Turkey Creek First Baptist, and First Baptist of Dover all left on Sunday, June 20th 2004. The churches decided to go to the same camp; that way they could all come back and make a difference in their community together.

Most of the churches had never been to a mission camp before and were excited to experience something new. The camp was held at Louisiana Tech University.

Actually, they had two camps going on at the same time. Two thirds of the

camps participated in recreation activities full of games and fun. However, the other third, including the four Plant City churches, gave up their recreation time to help those in need. For example, Eastside and Shiloh worked in the yards of the elderly, helping them with anything they needed done. “We decided to choose this camp because it would give our students the opportunity to serve others rather than themselves. In today’s society, people are encouraged to ‘look out for #1’ and ignore the needs of others. This trip has allowed our teenagers to see the eternal and physical benefits to reaching out to those in need,” said Eastside Baptist youth pastor Jeff Kidd.

The theme of the camp was “Love God. Love People.” It fit very appropriately because it taught the students that if they were truly loving God then it would be evident in the way they loved the people around them. Jesus said in the Gospel of Matthew 22:39 that the second greatest commandment is to “love thy neighbor as thyself.” Throughout the week the students learned how to reach out to others in multiple ways. Not only through physical work but also through building relationships. They also learned that even though you are helping other people, it is not always a one way benefit. Student leader Krista Crosby said, “ It was the

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 14

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because she was so touched. By the end of the week, the students realized that not only were they being uplifted by this experience but others were watching them and being touched too. Ms. Hoy said, “I was humbled that young people, who have such a bad reputation, would get in the dirt and be so willing to get dirty like everyone else.” Shiloh even had people gathering from the community to watch them work because they were so amazed. most uplifting and fulfilling feeling ever! Our group grew so much closer to each other because we were able to share the love that God has for us with other people.”

By leaving their comfort zones and reaching out to people they did not even know, they had the opportunity to impact people they will never see again. Debbie Hoy, a leader from Shiloh Baptist shared the story of one of the elderly ladies in whose yard they worked. Ms. Powell made an effort to thank all 50 of the people from their church

If nothing else, all the students walked away realizing that it is important to help others if you have the ability. Now that the students have returned home they hope to take everything they have learned and apply it to their daily lives. They are looking for places where they could be of service. However, not only are they looking for opportunities to physically help the area but also realize the necessity to impact other lives. When you leave this world, any accomplishments or possessions you have earned will not matter. The only thing that will matter is the difference you have made.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 15

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FOCUS Magazine “Mixes It Up” at the Ramada

1 2 Networking is the way to go in the business world these days. Nobody knows that better than FOCUS. That’s why their Release Parties are such a great success. They had this month’s mixer again in the beautiful Red Rose Dining Room at the Ramada Inn. We enjoyed a fabulous assortment of hors d’oeuvres and drinks before the party began. If you think FOCUS mixers are like all the other business mixers, think again.

FOCUS mixers are fun, like the way they helped everyone become familiar with each other’s businesses. It was original and inventive. It reminded me of the Hurry Date concept, except for Businesses. Here’s how it went: Find a seat in the group, then you and your partner tell each other about your businesses, and then, after five minutes, move down to start again with a new partner. By the end of the game, everyone knows about you and you know about them. I loved it. Sure helped those of us that are a little shy about approaching other people on our own. The goal of the FOCUS mixer is to help promote business in Plant City. Speaking of promoting business...did you know that FOCUS now distributes 20,000 magazines per month? Not bad at all for a magazine that is only a little over two years old. Thanks to you, the readers, whose support is the reason FOCUS is growing. Now that the mixer is a monthly event, write it down in your date book and plan to join them. It will be worth the time from your busy schedule. The next mixer will be held on July 19th, at 5:30 - 7:30 at the Red Rose Dining Room at the Ramada Inn Plantation House. FOCUS looks forward to seeing you there.

For more information call 707-8783.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 16

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the

Pointe What To Wear? led by

Rev. Kevin Brevik ���������������������������

August 14, 2004, 7:00pm First Baptist Plant City 103 E. Baker St. A Singles’ Ministry Event

“Seek his will in all you do and he will direct your paths” Proverbs 3:6

Childcare provided by reservation: 752-4104

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 17

LOCAL A little over a decade ago Donna was searching for her purpose in life. Through a friend she became interested in butterflies. She began collecting caterpillars and watching them cycle through the chrysalis stage to become beautiful butterflies. At that time, butterflies were basically a pleasant diversion from ‘real life’. Soon though, Donna began to feel that through butterflies she could help others, and has been working in that direction ever since. Her eyes light up when she talks about sharing butterflies with others, and she calls them “God’s little flying flowers.”

Along the shore of a small, spring-fed lake in the rural community of Dover lies Aunt Donna’s Butterfly Garden. Spending an afternoon here with Aunt Donna is inspiring. It takes only a few minutes with Donna Ashley to understand she is passionate: passionate about nature, butterflies, and her faith in God.

The desire to share her passion has inspired Donna to eventually transform her now modest garden into a Butterfly / Wildlife Habitat, and her home into an Environmental House – both open to the public. She also aspires to take her love of butterflies on the road by following the Monarch Butterfly migration to Mexico. Since the garden is a non-profit organization, Donna is working to obtain grants to accomplish these goals. She has taken grant writing courses and attended seminars on the subject facilitated by George Zocklein, of Zocklein and Associates, and is exploring various avenues to get the funding needed to further develop her garden and share her passions.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 18

1803 JIM REDMAN PKWY.

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LOCAL Each day, during several trips through the garden Donna collects caterpillars which are placed in ‘butterfly houses’ where they grow and mature. And boy do they grow – increasing 3,000 times in size from the time they hatch until they are ready to move to the chrysalis stage. In two to three weeks the caterpillars attach themselves to the interior wall of the house and transform into a chrysalis where they incubate for a week or so, eventually emerging as beautiful butterflies. The butterflies are tagged with tracking information and released. If one of the butterflies is found, the tiny paper tag instructs the finder to mail the information to the University of Kansas where it is traced back to Aunt Donna’s.

Taking her butterflies and her message of faith to schools and civic organizations, Donna participates in the Great American Teach-In, has dedicated a butterfly gar-

den built by students at Buckhorn Elementary, and made presentations for the Shriners and the Walden Lake Christian Women’s club, among others. She takes her butterflies to nursing homes, and plans to begin taking them to visit hospitalized children.

Miracles in Aunt Donna’s Butterfly Garden is a series of children’s books Donna is currently authoring. The series will include books on different types of butterflies, and the purpose of the series is to share God’s principles with children through the wonder of butterflies. Each book in the series will include a butterfly hand puppet, matching the species highlighted in the book.

Donna Ashley has big plans for her butterfly garden, but her ‘piein-the-sky goal’ as she calls it, is to be a guest, along with her ‘little flying flowers’, on the Live with Regis and Kelly show – and maybe even do an occasional, recurring feature on the program.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 19

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Do you remember what you were doing the day the United States declared war on Iraq? Most of us probably don’t, but John Simpkins does. It was his senior year at Plant City High School. John had always thought about serving in the military, but on that day John decided to enlist in the Marines through the delayed entry program.

If John’s name sounds familiar to you it may be because he was the Focus Magazine Athlete of the Month in February 2003. John was active in several different sports throughout his youth, but in high school he was an outstanding wrestler. Today John is 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighs about 150 lbs. John’s dad says he’s solid muscle and proved that in Basic Training. In July 2003, John began his military service training with 485 other Marines in Basic Training at Paris Island, South Carolina. Of the 485 Marines, John was selected the Iron Man, the most physically fit. Remember, these are Marines we’re talking about.

More recently, on June 1, 2004, John was promoted from Private First Class to Lance Corporal.

Currently, John is training with the 2nd Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team Company (2nd FAST or FAST Co) in Virginia. He is one of 50 active duty Marines assigned to FAST Co based at Naval Weapons Station, Yorktown, Virginia. Fast Co is responsible for protecting units vital to national security, primarily; site security, physical security for special nuclear material and strategic weapons, convoy operations, and security reinforcement at Naval and national installations, including embassies.

In August, John will leave for Europe for about 4 weeks of special training in England, Scotland, and then France. Then he’ll return to the US and have a few weeks off before heading for Iraq, probably at the end of September. John has two older sisters so he’s the baby in the family. His dad said they’re very proud of John’s accomplishments, but they’re not happy about him going to Iraq. When I spoke with John’s dad, also named John Simpkins (they have different middle names), he said, “We realize military service is John’s decision and we support his decision. We hope he’s getting the proper training, but all we can do is pray for him.”

When his duty is complete, John is interested in a career in law enforcement and he’s considering college. John feels all the special duty training he’s getting, especially with the Anti-terrorism Security Team, should make him well qualified for a career in law enforcement.

Until then, John must train and prepare himself for what lies ahead for FAST Co. It’s never easy to see a loved one off to war. May God be with you. Semper Fidelis.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 20

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New “Fit Kids” Program at the Plant City Family YMCA Geared to Get Kids Active

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To combat the growing concern with childhood obesity.

The Plant City Family YMCA is offering a new weight management program for children and their parents. Fit kids is a fun, active program where parents and children learn about different topics such as nutrition and dealing with daily stresses as well as a variety of activities to peak their interest and to get them moving.

Phone: 813-707-1393 Toll Free: 877-707-1133 Fax: 813-752-9701

E-Mail: AmericanRolloff@aol.com AmeriacnRolloff@aol.com

“This program is devised from the “Get Fit” YMCA of the USA program, but now it’s geared solely for kids,” says Jenny Belmar, Senior Program Director at the Plant City Family YMCA. “It’s a great opportunity for parents to get active with their children.”

Fit Kids will run for 10 weeks beginning in July and running through September 9. The class will meet every Thursday from 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm. This program is available for youth ages 10 and older and a parent is encouraged to attend with their child. For more specific topics and cost, please contact the Plant City Family YMCA at 7576677.

The Plant City Family YMCA builds strong kids, strong families and strong communities. For more information on the Plant City Family YMCA, membership and program, call 813-757-6677 or visit the website at www.tampaymca.org.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 21

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“Home Grown Business”

Linda Maxwell is known as The Rose Lady Raising roses is much like raising children. They take tender loving care and lots of time.

Linda Maxwell, “The Rose Lady,” is mom to over 450 rose bushes. She has been raising roses as a business for the past four years. Before becoming The Rose Lady, she and her husband farmed strawberries for 23 yrs. in Dover. One day her friend talked her into going with her to Giles Nursery and introduced her to roses. She brought home three plants that day and began raising them as a hobby. Then five years ago she and her husband sold their strawberry business. She continued tending to her roses, but got a regular job that she soon longed to get out of. Her husband suggested that she try to sell her roses. She did and discovered she could make a business out of it. She started with a small route of Plant City businesses on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays, and sometimes Lakeland on Thursdays. Before she knew it, it was flourishing. Tending to the roses has become very full time work for her. She cuts them 7 days a week, sometimes 2 times a day to help keep them from opening too fast. Linda doesn’t grow or sell anything but the best. Most of her roses will last at least a week. Rose season lasts about 10 months out of the year, beginning in April and extending through the end of the year. Linda knows she could sell roses year round, but it is important to her that she has the healthiest roses possible, so the months she doesn’t sell she cuts the bushes back, allowing the foliage to grow thick and lush. One of the unique things about Linda’s business is that you can purchase all different color roses in the same bouquet. The next time you have an event or just want to send a beautiful bouquet to brighten someone’s day, remember The Rose Lady. Her prices for bouquets and arrangements are more than reasonable, beginning at $9 and up.

For more information on prices, including delivery area, call: Home (813) 659-1160 • Cell (813) 478-2634, Nextel 158*5*27398.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 22

LOCAL An Evening of Picture Perfect Memories

The first Heritage Award is presented to David E. Bailey, Jr. The Plant City Archives had their 2nd Annual Gala on Saturday, June 19th in the Red Rose Ballroom at the Ramada Inn Plantation House. It was an invitation to share a part of Plant City history in pictures.

The event started at 7 p.m. with a Champagne and Hors d’oeuvre Reception and Photo Exhibit. Two areas were set up with displays on either end of the ballroom allowing for easy viewing and mixing with others. Not being from Plant City, I found it fascinating to see all the history of this town and stand next to those of you who found yourselves or someone you knew in the pictures. Dinner was served and the entertainment began. Omar Almosdovar and Vivian Pardon presented “The Best of Broadway” in a collection of songs. We experienced just little bit of what I imagine it is like to go to a Broadway production in New York. Our attention was turned back to Plant City

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with the recognition of some of the former Strawberry Queens, as each one present was escorted to stand next to her picture on display. The Great Splendiferous Photo Trivia Quiz followed with 10 questions and 10 pictures that asked if we could guess who these people and places were.

Following the quiz, we were educated on exactly what the Plant City Archives are all about and what they do. They not only restore pictures, but they preserve Plant City history and that of its people. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the first Heritage Award to Mr. David E. Bailey, Jr. It was an honor to be in the presence of such an accomplished man who has done so much for Plant City. He could fill a history book with his life’s story of how he came to Plant City in 1923 with his family, until today.

He feels that Plant City is a wonderful place and he wants to spend the rest of his life here. The award was given to Mr. Bailey because of his impact of success and contribution to the Plant City community. The Plant City Archives thanks all the sponsors and everyone who helped

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 23

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Bye Bye Birdie

“Plant City Entertainment” to perform

If you’re looking for some wholesome family entertainment this month, go check out Plant City Entertainment’s production of Bye Bye Birdie. Set in the early sixties in the tiny town of Sweet Apple, Ohio, this upbeat musical comedy delivers enjoyment to the young and old alike.

When Conrad Birdie, a rock ‘n roll superstar, is drafted into the army, his agent, Albert Peterson, is stuck trying to find a way to pay off his contracts. Albert and his secretary devise a plan that could save the company… Conrad will bid a typical American teen-age girl goodbye with an all-American kiss. Kim Macafee (who has just been pinned to Hugo) of Sweet Apple Ohio is chosen.

When Conrad and his entourage come to Sweet Apple the whole town is turned upside down. Women and girls of all ages swoon as he sings, and the men are left to pick up the wilted ladies. Conrad grows weary of being under Albert’s constant supervision, and the adventure begins as he and the local teens run off to the Ice House, a local hangout.

The music in the show is really upbeat. You may recognize some of the music, which includes the old hit “Put on a Happy Face.” “This is a fun show,” says Logan Harrington, who plays Conrad Birdie. It’s fun to be in and fun to watch. I wouldn’t be surprised if people get up out of their seats to dance.”

This production of Bye Bye Birdie opened July 9th and is held in the auditorium at Hillsborough Community College off of Park Road.

Show dates are as follows: July 16-17 and July 23-24 at 8pm and July 18 at 2pm.

You may purchase tickets in advance at Hardee’s Fashions or at the door. Tickets will be sold for $8 for adults and $7 for students through high school and seniors. Group discounts are available. For more ticket information call 754-4929.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 24

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The Children’s Dream Fund Local child has dream fulfilled

There is a wonderful non-profit organization located in Pinellas County called the Children’s Dream Fund. It was founded in 1981 with the single purpose of fulfilling dreams for children ages 3 - 18 who have been diagnosed with a lifethreatening illness. Referrals are received from seven hospitals on Florida’s west coast. Dreams vary from trips to Disney World, meetings with celebrities, gifts such as computers and swimming pools and occasional shopping sprees. One such shopping spree was recently awarded to 12-year-old Victor Cortez of Plant City. Victor was diagnosed with kidney failure in April, 2003, and is being treated at Tampa General Hospital. On June 1st he had his dream come true when he received a shopping spree at Westfield Mall in Brandon.

Victor’s dream-come-true began when he and his family were picked up by a limousine from His & Hers Limousine and were brought to the mall. Merchants who assisted with Victor’s dream include: Dillard’s, Sports Fan-Attic, Athlete’s Foot, Build-A-Bear Workshop, Tropical Shades, Ruby Tuesday, Glamour Shots, Team Choice, LoveSac, Payless Shoe Source and Ultimate Relaxation.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 26

Joanne Lanning, Dream Coordinator, describes the Children’s Dream Fund program in this way: “A dream gives the child a much-needed break from the routine of their medical attention and allows them a time to laugh and smile – the best medicine of all.”

They serve 15 counties on the West Coast and into Central Florida, and in 2003 they fulfilled 83 dreams. Their Board of Directors includes Yolanda Fernandez, news anchor at WFLATV, Channel 8, and Jim Leavitt, head football coach for the University of South Florida Bulls.

On a sad note, the violent storms during the third week in June caused a large tree to fall on the trailer in which Victor Cortez and his family lived and caused such destruction that they had to stay in a hotel. The Children’s Dream Fund Marketing and Event Coordinator, Kate Cigoi, couldn’t say at the time we went to press just how much of the merchandise Victor amassed during his shopping spree survived. As if this child and his family didn’t have enough to worry about already, life dealt them another ironic blow.

LOCAL The Children’s Dream Fund is located in downtown St. Petersburg in the McNulty Station at 235 2nd Avenue South. They celebrated their 20th anniversary in 2001.

They look forward to a rewarding future making children’s dreams come true. The years have shown them that a dream provides encouragement and hope when it’s needed most, and lasting memories for children and their families.

The true impact of fulfilling a child’s dreams cannot be measured in dollars and cents.

Their desire is to grant every eligible child’s dream. There are many children in our community living with life-threatening illnesses and those children have a dream. The Children’s Dream Fund needs your help to reach them. Please help ensure that these children realize their dreams by becoming a volunteer, making a donation, or referring a child. With your help, all children who face a lifethreatening illness will be give the opportunity to have their dreams come true.

your pet doesn’t need to suffer.

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For more information you may visit their website at www.childrensdreamfund.org or you may call them at 727-896-6390 or fax them at 727-896-6380.

relief

for pets fleas, ticks - itchy skin and allergies...

We Love Your Pets!

We Want to Help

Tel: 813.752.2869

Animal Wellness Center of Plant City For Your Pet’s Sake, 3109 SR 574 West Hours: Mon.-Tue. & Thurs.-Fri. (8 a.m.-Noon & 1- 5 p.m.)

Don’t Wait, Call Today Wed. & Sat. (8 a.m.-Noon)

SAVE $5.00 On All Skin Ailments Due to Fleas, Ticks, Itchy Skin & Allergies Exp. 8/15/04

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 27

FREE QUOTES

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Inspiration in Color with Fine Artist Kevin Hoak CUSTOM POWDER COATING PLANT CITY, FLORIDA

• Better alternative to paint • Over 300 colors to chose from.

• Quick turn around • State of the art equipment with very large oven.

• 100% guarantee on all work • Very competitive rates • Airboats, handrails, towers, farm equipment, signs gates, motorcycles, etc...WE DO IT ALL.

Local artist makes 3D pictures “pop off the board”

MARK JURNIGAN, OWNER. OFFICE: 813-754-3841. CELL: 813-299-4264

Life would be less beautiful without art and Plant City would definitely be looking to fill a void without Fine Artist Kevin Hoak.

He is an artist that is just beginning to emerge. Kevin has been drawing with colored pencils since he was 12 or 13 years old.

He loves using this median because the colors are so bright and it is easy to see all the little details. To highlight his work he uses acrylics and airbrushing. He loves to make his pictures look 3D and just “pop off the board.” Keeping realism in his work is very important to him. Kevin also tries to keep the focus of many of his pieces on the eyes. I had the privilege of looking at his portfolio and some of his collection. I was in awe of his work and all I could say was, “How did you do that?” It had escaped me how such beauty could be replicated with a colored pencil.

I have always been amazed by self taught artists like Kevin.

There is nothing more inspiring than to see an artist’s heart and soul in each piece. It takes great passion to stay driven, especially in the beginning when your name is just getting out there or you are having to squeeze in some time to work in between all of your other responsibilities. Kevin has been doing that for quite some time. He now is at a place where he can devote more of his time to his art. He has a goal of five years. At the end of that time he is looking forward to being known on some level, though he is not looking for national recognition. When we are given a gift such as Kevin’s, it should be enjoyed by as many people as possible, so look for him “wherever art is hung.”

He also dabbles in photo restorations as well as graphic arts and illustration. He produces quality work that is affordable. To contact Kevin call him at 813-659-9600 or cell: 813-928-0613.

Email: konantheartist@mail.com. Good Luck, Kevin!

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 28

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Dance Expressions “A professional studio with a hometown atmosphere”

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206 S. Evers Street Plant City, FL 33563

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 29

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Dance Expressions Presents “The Essence of Dance”

Dance recital was held at Durant High School

Recitals are a family affair. Much time, effort, and money has been spent getting ready for such a big event. Everyone at Dance Expressions worked very hard this year to present the best recital ever. On June 12th friends and family gathered at Durant High School for two recital sessions. Each class gave a unique and creative presentation that was the culmination of a year’s worth of preparation. Both the 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. recital offered a wide variety of dance routines from tiny dancers to adult. There were 47 dances in all. In the 12:30 recital two solos were performed by competition winners: Meagham Spence in “We need A Revolution” and Mara Parks in “I’m Alive.”

The 3 p.m. competition winner solos were performed by TyLynn Eben in “Play That Funky Music” and Erin Brunk in “Beautiful People.” They were all phenomenal. Dance Expressions has a Dancer’s Elite Performing Company which these girls are members of. The 2003 - 2004 dancers in this company are Amber Ham, Lexi Ham, Mara Parks, Sydney Shaffer, Jordan Adams, Moffy Coovert, Skylar Smith, Sarah Winter, TyLynn Eben, Allison Fudge, Kaitlin Hartzog,

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 30

Samantha McCall, Erin Brunk, Jessica King, Meaghan Spence, Susan Sullivan, and Kelli Woods.

Rhonda Williams is Owner/ Artistic Director of Dance Expressions, and thanks her staff Brittany Hail, Heather Gentner, Patricia Storelli, Helen Hatcher, and Stephanie Baez for doing such a great job. Others who assisted in the success of this year’s recital were: Jessica King, Merranda Shaffer, Tina Sullivan, Deena Ham, Linda McCall, Brenda Shaffer, Lance Ham, Tami Ham, Russell Shaffer, Rhonda Williams, and Matt Eben.

Rhonda is looking forward to upcoming changes in her school and an increase in the number of classes that she will be able to offer, due to additions in her teaching staff and conversion of the back room into more studio space. She is planning on offering musical theater, pilates, yoga, praise and worship dance and step teams, and more. Dance Expressions offers summer dance camp, which began June 14th, and will continue through July 30th. For information on the camp or next year’s classes, call 759-9446.

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����������� Many people associate Bluegrass Music with Kentucky and its beautiful rolling hills. They envision families gathered around playing and singing. Growing up in and around Kentucky, and as part of a family of musicians, I am lucky enough to know it is more than that. It is about who we are, our culture, talent, and our love of the music. I am so excited to find out that Plant City is now part of the Bluegrass experience. Central Florida Bluegrass Association has made their home here. They say, “Our mission is to be a unifying voice in the community, promoting and sustaining the American art of Bluegrass music for future generations. Through local jam sessions, concerts, picnics, workshops, festivals and more, we hope to create a family environment where musicians and fans can enjoy this wonderful music.” CFBA formed the organization in late 2003 and are growing rapidly. Layla Keeler is the Event Coordinator who filled me in on some wonderful bits of information. She is proud to say that two of their young people are currently recording in Nashville with a well known artist. Congrats to them and their families. If you have never had the opportunity to experience Bluegrass music you are in luck.

July 24th from 4 - 8 p.m. the Bluegrass Association will be playing in McCall Park. I guarantee that it will be something you will not soon forget. The Central Florida Bluegrass Association holds jam sessions every week, so if you are a musician, think about joining them.

CFBA is offering memberships for everyone, not just musicians, for an annual fee of $15 per person and $25 per family. Members will have access to newsletters, calendar of events, discounts, cookouts and activities. The Association events and promotions of Bluegrass music for our area are funded through the memberships. If interested in finding out more about Central Florida Bluegrass Association or membership, log onto their website at cfbluegrass.com.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 31

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ecome b s a h y it C t n “Pla ndly ie r f a s a n w o kn h community wit ring wonderful, ca people”.

For years, anyone attending the monthly Chamber Business Breakfasts at various locales around town have listened to the dulcet tones of Bruce Rodwell as he was MC of that event. He has a voice that any broadcaster would envy and that includes your writer who pounded the TV news beat for a quarter of a century. He has since turned the microphone over to other would-be Jay Leno’s.

Is Anyone Going to Stop This Man ?

He came on the Plant City scene in 1996 from Pennsylvania to setup (what else?) a strawberry marketing facility for Country Best Food Products, since bought out by Del Monte Foods.

His name is Bruce Rodwell and during the past eight years he has become so active in community affairs that one would think he had been born and raised in Plant City.

Bruce retired from the produce business 3 years ago and has become even more involved in area activities that your writer could practically fill FOCUS Magazine with stories about him. In fact, his wife, Margaret, has told Bruce that “you should stand in front of a mirror and learn to mouth the word ‘NO’ “.

She’s a good one to talk, being the 2004 chairperson of the annual Diamonds and Denim Ball to be held at the Arthur Boring Building in the Stawberry Festival Fairgrounds on Thursday September 26th. This event, like so many the Rodwell’s are involved in, are all designed to raise funds for numerous worthwhile causes. The Diamonds and Denim last year wound-up netting more than $50,000 for the South Baptist Hospital Foundation.

“I’ve always been a very active person”, says the affable Rodwell, noting that,” I enjoy being involved in the community, meeting people and I find it so very rewarding.”

When he came to Plant City, before he had even completed unpacking, Bruce Rodwell found the Plant City Chamber of Commerce and volunteered for more committees than one could shake a stick at.

Among his duties today is Vice-Chair of the Membership Committee and a member of the Executive Committee at the Chamber.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 32

As we poured over Bruce Rodwell’s biography, two pages of small print, we could only transpose a few of the achievements into this article. He’s on the Plant City Planning Board, active in the Methodist Church, the United Food Bank, Toastmaster’s International and the Pregnancy Care Center. Oh. Yes. He’s also on the Board of the Aston Woods Homeowners’ Association in Walden Lake.

Like so many Plant City and Eastern Hillsborough County Residents, Bruce Rodwell does not want this area “to become another Brandon”. He says “Brandon has no character, while Plant City has become known as a friendly community with wonderful, caring people”. Being on the local Planning Board, Bruce Rodwell is in a position to do something about that and confirms to FOCUS that “we’re going to have good zoning and controlled development”. He went on to say “I believe the Plant City Commission is very positive in that regard”. Bruce says he hopes there are more “Walden Lake type developments” in the future for Plant City.

Bruce Rodwell does not like to see vacant buildings anywhere and that especially applies to the former K-Mart location on Alexander and Jim Redman. “It’s a shame to see valuable commercial property going unused”, he says.

As for life here, compared to up north in Pennsylvania and New York states, Bruce Rodwell says the “pace of life is a little bit slower and the people are more friendly here”.

He then pulled out his Day-Timer and noted that time was marching-on and graciously said that we had to conclude the interview. Such is the lifestyle of one more wonderful transplanted Plant City resident.

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LOCAL

AROUND TOWN

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After recently buying Cherry’s in February of this year, Clyde Jensen wanted to find a way to give back to the community in which he is now becoming involved. He decided to plan a benefit for July 2nd, 2004 to raise money for an undecided cause. The main event he wanted at this benefit was the Grave Digger Monster truck. “Kids don’t have any other opportunity to get this close to a truck like this, even if they sit front row at a monster truck rally,” said Jensen. When Jensen heard of the death of Hillsborough County Sheriff’s deputy David Abella, he knew that this Plant City family needed help. Abella left behind a wife and three children after his death in April 2004 due to an automobile accident while on duty.

Jensen knew that this was not something he could pull off by himself. First, he found two companies to help pay for the costs of having the monster truck. Both Bill Heard Chevrolet and Liquid Designs were more than willing to help Jensen. Next, he wanted to expand the events at this benefit. On top of the Grave Digger he brought the sprint car he sponsors out of Plant City, the Sheriff Department’s VW Beetle, a deputy car, a 48ft ladder fire truck from the Plant City fire department, and Habitat for Humanity. Other than the Cherry’s staff, everyone was there on their own time for the benefit of others.

Deputy Sheriff Bob Grant, a former instructor of Abella, said, “This means a lot to us that everyone would show such phenomenal support. The police are usually viewed in a bad light, so it is good to see that people care. People have other things to do, but they’re here.” Grant was not the only one that knew it was important to be there. Habitat for Humanity was there to promote the new house they are going to build in Plant City. Everyone had the opportunity to purchase a 2 x 4 which they could sign, that will be used in the upcoming home. The only problem they have with the home is that they have not found a family to live in it. It will be the third house they’ve built in Plant City. Habitat for Humanity provides Hand-ups not Hand-outs. They want to find a deserving family that will earn the house.

After all was said and done the night had been a success.

Plenty of people came out to see the event. Children were smiling, excited to see a truck so large. Families spent time together walking booth to booth. Overall, the benefit was even better than expected.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 34

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 35

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Rotary Club of Plant City Daybreak On June 24th, 2004 Plant City Florida George Banning, a member for 10 years of the Rotary Club of Plant City Daybreak was sworn in as District Governor for District 6890 at The Ramada Inn. The district is comprised of 4 counties in West Central Florida numbering 44 clubs and 2200 members. The evening’s activities also included the installation of Teresa Lott as Club President of the Plant City Daybreak Club. Guest Speaker for the event was Geoffrey Large, Past District Governor from Lake Wales.

This is a special year for Rotary as they will be celebrating their centennial anniversary. Started by Paul Harris in Chicago, IL. with 3 of his friends, Rotary became the first service club and now has over 1,200,000 members worldwide. Their service to communities is both local and international. On a local level they have awarded scholarships to graduating seniors, organized and sponsored the Seminar for Tomorrows Leaders, provided every public school 5th grader with a dictionary. On the international level they have been dedicated to Polio Plus, a program to wipe out Polio worldwide. They have also provided water wells for areas in third world countries that have little potable water. There is much Rotary does to help communities here and abroad.

Look for George Banning and the Rotary centennial truck (a 1937 Ford Panel) as they travel around central Florida celebrating Rotary’s 100 years of service.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 36

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Train Depot Plant City

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P l t City TrainanDepot The rustic walls quiver. The earth beneath the aged wooden floor trembles from the presence of the howling engine passing. The man behind the counter has arisen from his station at the telegraph to provide you with your boarding pass. As you peer outside the window, mere feet from where you’re standing a procession of railcars race down the track carrying passengers to New York.

As you look around the station, you see the linen napkins and sterling silverware that once graced dining cars like those of the legendary Orange Blossom Special. On the floor beside you a burn-stain serves as a reminder of the pot-bellied stove that once heated the waiting room in which you stand. In the corner, a lead cashbox acts as a sign of a time before electronic balance transfers.

America has always had a love affair with trains and railroad lore. For anyone who lives in or near Plant City, you need not go far to relive the adventure and romance of riding the rails. A quick trip downtown can soon turn into a trip back in time at the historic Union Passenger Station of Plant City.

Completed in 1909 and functioning as an operable depot until 1971, the Union Station is now a renovated railroad museum as well as Plant City’s official historic downtown welcoming center. Along with learning about the various current attractions available in and around Plant City, visitors can also come away with a comprehensive education in the railroads that dominated so much of the previous century.

The facility is a partnership between the City of Plant City, The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, and the H.B. Plant Railroad Historical Society. The city oversees the actual building and property of the historic landmark, the Chamber of Commerce is responsible for the operation of the welcome center and providing the volunteer staff, and the Historical Society is in charge of running the mini-railroad museum inside the station. Chamber of Commerce member, Al Collinge, serves as Depot Coordinator for the facility.

Carl Kresge, one of the eleven volunteer docents who serve as hosts at the station, says he enjoys his job because he has always had an interest in trains and he is glad to provide his service to the community. “I’m proud of the depot here and the restoration that was done,” Kresge said. “I’m happy to show it.” The docents, who are organized generally work a three-hour shift once a week welcoming visitors to the station, giving them a tour of the museum, and telling them about its history. Last year the team of volunteers put in 938 hours of service, greeting 4,063 guests to the downtown depot. In return for their service, every year the Chamber recognizes its volunteers with an appreciation dinner. “They really treat their volunteers nice,” said Jerry Honaker, another volunteer docent. “When you get somebody that’s nice to work for, you want to give it your best.”

Henry Bradley Plant originally brought the railroads to Plant City in 1883, and it is in honor of him that the town received its name. Ironically, there is no record that Plant himself ever lived in the area or FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 41

Train Depot

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even visited the town, as his residence was on Fifth Avenue in New York City. However, because he was interested in developing the tourism industry in Florida, Plant did develop the railroad system in the area, ran ships up and down the gulf coast and the Caribbean, and established hotels throughout the region, including the Tampa Bay Hotel, which now serves as the University of Tampa campus, and the Belleview Biltmore, which is featured in our travel piece.

In 1902, three years after Plant’s death, the expanding Atlantic Coast Line Railroad absorbed the railroad system that once bore his name.

The extended track stretched from Tampa north to New York with a stop in Plant City, and also south to Sarasota and Miami. Seven years later, in 1909, the Plant City Union Passenger Station was established.

The junction in Plant City marked the crossing of the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad with another major railroad of that time, the Seaboard Air Line Railroad. In the early days, The Seaboard Air Line was the only train to travel across the state of Florida. Before the development of the major bridges across Tampa Bay, the Seaboard Air Line was also the primary way of crossing over to the gulf coast. It would stop its tracks near the Tampa Bay shore, and passengers could then fly across to St. Petersburg in a Ford tri-motor airplane. These trains served as the predominant form of transportation for many famous historical figures who kept homes in Florida. Because roadways were inadequate for extensive travel during this period, people like Henry Ford and Thomas Edison used the railroads to trek through what was otherwise mostly untamed wilderness to reach their Florida homes.

The Atlantic Coast Line Railroad was host to one of the most popular trains to ever ride the rails, the Orange Blossom Special. This legendary train was made famous throughout Americana by the fiddling phenomenon of Chubby Wise and Ervin Rouse in a song that has been venerated over the last 75 years in the repertoires of country and bluegrass artists such as Bill Monroe, Johnny Cash, and Roy Clark.

The song is, of course, the ever popular, “Orange Blossom Special.”

Originally pulled by steam engine and later by diesel, riders aboard the Special would pass through Plant City on their way back and forth from New York to Miami during the winters of 1925 through 1953. In the old freight room of the depot, the museum now contains a mock replica display of a passenger car commemorating the original Orange Blossom Special.

It was aboard trains like the Orange Blossom Special that passengers could eat in the acclaimed and luxurious railroad dining cars. On the tables in these cars were linen tablecloths adorned with vases of fresh

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 42

flowers. The mahogany interior was warmly lit by light from brass fixtures. Place settings were complete with eating utensils of real sterling silver, and the food was always prepared fresh on the train. During the golden age of railroad, dining cars provided an allure of class for travelers with high taste.

Apart from being the primary means of passenger travel, trains of the last 100 plus years served as essentially the only means by which to transport large quantities of freight across long distances of land. Particularly important was the role of the railroad in the coal industry. Coal provided most American homes of this era with fuel for heating and cooking. Coal also provided a substantial contribution to the economy of Appalachian mining regions such as those found in southern West Virginia and eastern Kentucky. Freight trains traveled along the tracks from these areas into Florida, bringing citizens of Plant City the coal they needed to stay warm and keep their families fed.

With Plant City’s booming agricultural industry, the railroads were also an extremely important means of transporting produce for commercial export. The first shipment of strawberries from Plant City occurred in 1892. Twenty years later, Plant City was exporting so many strawberries it received the moniker, “The Winter Strawberry Capital of the World.” In 1920, approximately 1,200 freight carloads full of produce were shipped out of the Plant City Union Station. In 1930, Plant City held its first Strawberry Festival, which is now widely known as an annual international attraction.

For over forty years from the time of its completion, the Union Passenger Station was the centerpiece of Plant City. In addition to operating as a starting point for travel, the station also served as a meeting place for members in the community. Residents would come simply to socialize, receive news, or sometimes just watch trains pull in and out. The station also played another vital social role at this time, that of a message center.

In the days of the telegraph, the train station was home to wire operators who would send and receive messages from one town to another.

A member in one community could go to the local station and have a message sent across the wire to an operator in a town some ways down the track. The receiving operator would then have the telegram message often delivered by bicycle to its intended recipient in the town. This system eventually developed into the famous Western Union. During World War II the telegraph was particularly important as the military used it to send notice to families whose sons had been injured or killed in the war.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 43

Train Depot

FEATURE

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As the dominant mode of transportation shifted away from train travel and more toward airlines and the interstate in the 1950’s and 60’s, the station quickly lost its significance as a functionally vital component in Plant City. The depot closed in 1971 and was deeded over to the city three years later. In 1975, Union Station was included in the National Register of Historic Places. In 1999, after extensive renovation, which included completely relocating the former freight building across the tracks to conjoin it with the passenger building, and the expenditure of historic preservation funds, restoration of the landmark was complete.

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The depot was opened in its current function of museum and welcome center in 1997. Much of this project was spearheaded by the late Ray Myers. “He knew as much about railroads as anybody in the country,” said Kresge. The museum contains over 1500 items of railroad memorabilia and artifacts that have been donated by various people. Visitors to the museum can walk around and receive a detailed education from the various displays presenting information on railroads including employment statistics, the history of hoboes, switchboard information, and the longest stretches of straight track in various parts of the world.

A library of over 4800 reference materials is available to all those who wish to become members of the Historical Society.

Another informative attraction, a scaled model of downtown Plant City complete with a running model train, provides a glance into the past when the depot was still in operation. In that same room, the depot also carries a sign by the window looking out onto the junction stating that it is believed that nowhere else in the United States can a person stand inside the comfort of an air-conditioned building and watch a train pass as closely as it does at the Plant City Union Station. While at the museum, guests may wish to pick up something to remember their visit. A gift counter provides souvenirs for sale including strawberry emblazoned conductors’ caps, brass railroad spikes, and wooden train whistles.

Although in slightly different fashion, the downtown depot still serves as a meeting place for members of the Plant City community and beyond. The downtown area of Union Station and McCall Park is now the host location for numerous community events. One such event is the Plant City Bike Fest. Every first Saturday of the month, hundreds of motorcycle riders roll into the downtown area around Union Station to display their steel horses and hang out with other fellow bikers. On the second Saturday of the month, the tone is much different, though no less lively. In an atmosphere characterized by traditional charm, the Plant City Antiques and Arts and Crafts Fair brings to the streets around the depot the display of yesteryear’s collectibles and a showcase of today’s local creative talent. The third Saturday of every month brings the Plant City Strawberry Classic Car Show. From hotrods to muscle cars to a plethora of timeless classics, there is sure to be enough eye candy to provide even the most discriminating car enthusiast with hours of perusing pleasure.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 44

Train Depot

The historic Plant City Union Station is also host to other less frequent local events such as the Patriotic Day put on by members of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. People gather and guest military speakers are invited to speak on Patriotic Day to honor American military personnel and war veterans. Another event hosted at Union Station is the Taste of Florida festival where local restaurants from around the area come to the downtown depot and set up tables to sell their food. The proceeds raised from the event go to support the local food bank. A central Florida bluegrass festival is also scheduled to soon take place at the station.

While the tracks that FOCUS pass through Plant City ������� Union Station no longer stop to pick up passen������� gers, they are still highly active. Atlantic Coast Line Railroad and Seaboard Air Line Railroad consolidated in 1967 to Plant City’s Historic Union Station: form Seaboard Coast ������������������������� Line Railroad. This company was bought out in 1980 by CSX, who now operates approximately 16 through freight trains in Plant City every day, as well as a local train that provides freight transportation for the area’s warehouses and industries. While they make no stops in Plant City, Amtrak also runs passenger trains through town on their way back and forth from Miami, Tampa, and New York.

Plant City

LOCAL

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Upon visiting the museum, one may learn some further interesting information about the operation of current Florida railways. For example, all train activity in Florida is directed out of one single control center located in Jacksonville. When a train passes Plant City, an automatic signal tells control operators in Jacksonville where that train is on the tracks. Like automobiles, these trains are also required to maintain speed limits, and these limits differ for passenger trains and freight trains. Speed limits for trains also vary according to whether they are within the city or in a less populated rural area.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 45

Train Depot

LOCAL FOCUS

Today, people from all over the world visit the ������� historic Union Station.

The station is always a great attraction for visiting railroad buffs, and it stays particularly busy Plant City’s Historic Union Station: during the winter season ������������������������� when Florida is visited by so many of its northern neighbors. Occasionally, a few locals even drop by the depot, but unfortunately many residents of Plant City are not aware of this priceless pearl right in our own backyard. The H.B. Plant Historical Railroad Society and Plant City Chamber of Commerce have together captured a timeless treasure in preserving the historic jewel of the Plant City Union Station. Simultaneously, they have also provided an invaluable resource of information about railroads both past and present. While holding onto the rich heritage of our history, the downtown depot gives us a perspective into

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how the railroads have contributed to the town we are now.

The Union Station and Historic Downtown Plant City Welcome Center is located on South Palmer St. just across from McCall Park, and is open every Thursday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. Doors are open to all who wish to visit, and a volunteer will always be there to greet you and show you around. The Chamber of Commerce is currently looking for additional volunteers, and those who are interested should contact the Chamber for more information. If you love trains, love Plant City, or just love people, volunteering would be a great chance for you to give something back to your community. If you can’t seem to find the time to serve at the station, at least drop by sometime and find out what a fun treasure is just around the corner.

Thank you to The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and the H.B. Plant Railroad Society for much of the research contained within this story.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 46

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110 E. Reynolds St., Ste. 400 • 759-1023 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 47

Paula Albertson, CLU, ChFC, and President FIG Financial, is the only "Safe Money Specialist" in Plant City who can show you:

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 48

712 S. Collins St. • Plant City Hours: Mon-Fri: 8am- 11pm Sat. 8am-11pm • Sunday: 7am-12pm

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 49

Ok, as tempting as it is, I’m going to spare everyone the easily accessible, less than novel puns available when doing a spotlight profile on a man named Al Berry from Plant City. I will abstain from any attempts at substandard wit about how his roots are deep and he grew up to be such a sweet person in our beloved town. I promise I will make no mention to what a fresh perspective he has brought to the community throughout his lifetime. You will find no references here about what a berry great guy he is, and I will not try to amuse you by telling you what a colorful flavor he has added to Plant City. While there is a ripe harvest of trite wordplay to pick from, and although all these things are true, I fear such unrestrained acclamation might make him grow red with embarrassment.

Born shortly before the start of the Second World War, Alfred Berry was the youngest child of Albert and Nita Berry. Since that time, Al has lived nearly his entire life in Plant City. His father was a city employee for 33 years as a police officer and chief of the sanitation department. His oldest sister, Nettie Draughon, also worked for the city, and served much of her 57 years employed as city manager. Commemorating her dedicated service, city hall was named in her honor in 1997. Al’s sister, Betty Howell lives in Plant City as well and is currently enjoying retirement after serving many years with the GTE Telephone Service.

Al and his wife, Patsy, have been happily married for the last 47 years. They met singing in the choir at First Baptist Church of Plant City, and were the first couple to be married by the former Rev. Richard Bills in the old sanctuary on Collins Street.

They have three daughters, and four grandchildren. Their oldest daughter, Kellie lives in Seminole with her husband Craig Cory, and has three children, Kelsie, Kylie, and Cliff Their second oldest, Lori, lives with her husband Raul DeMello, a teacher at Plant City High School, and their son, Ryan, in Plant City. The youngest daughter, Karen, works as a sales representative with our very own Focus Magazine and provides a substantial portion of the office entertainment.

After graduating from Plant City High School in 1953, Berry spent a year in El Paso, Texas going to college and working on the border going into Juarez, Mexico. Deciding that Plant City was a tough standard to measure against, he came back home and began attending the University of Tampa. Al had been enthralled with operating the HAM radio for sometime, but it was at UT that he first began pursuing broadcasting professionally and started working with the college radio station. From his work with the station at UT, Berry soon landed a position with WFLA. Here he worked noon to midnight every Saturday and Sunday, and was televised from behind the mic for the last two hours on his Sunday shift.

In 1958, Berry left WFLA and began working for the local Plant City station, WPLA. He started off running an on-air shift similar to the one at WFLA. He would spin records, read the news, and so forth. While working the mic was fun, it wasn’t the most lucrative position in the radio field. “It didn’t take me long to realize that if I wanted to make any money, I needed to get into FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 50

the sales end of it,” said Berry. So that’s exactly what he did.

While he maintained a part-time on-air shift throughout his 30 plus years with the station, Al started working more with operations behind the scenes. He soon found his responsibilities were too much for him alone to handle. “I went to W.A. Smith, who owned the station at that time, and I said, ‘Look, in order for this station to work properly and to do what needs to be done, I’ve got to have some help.’”

From this, a local legendary partnership was born. The station owner suggested Berry team with his son Ercelle to run the stations sales department. “I thought to myself, ‘Well, I know him, I know what he’s made of, I don’t see any reason why we can’t do that.” Ercelle Smith, a cattleman rancher, had no previous background in broadcast, but with Al there to show him a few ropes, the duo was definite and the two eventually worked into co-ownership of the station.

As those around at the time know, Berry and Smith hosted a tremendously popular radio show called “This‘n That.” The show originated as a sounding board for local community residents to buy and sell goods such as produce, animals, automobiles, and even an occasional rattlesnake hide. However, it was not long before Al and Ercelle were spicing things up, and the show was soon a local variety hit. “It got to be quite popular and people still talk about it today,” Berry said.

The show came to feature the contributions of local Plant City personalities including slapstick guitar ensembles from Burt Mansell, and captivating tales from the larger-than-life, “Aunt Maggie”. “Aunt Maggie was everybody’s favorite,” Berry said.

“They all looked forward to hearing from her every week, and if she didn’t call us we’d call her.” Aunt Maggie provided listeners with vivid stories of Plant City’s early years, and gave quick how-tos on various do-it-yourself pioneering skills. “She could skin a rattlesnake or a rabbit in no time flat,” Al said.

Al and Ercelle had that unexplainable magic that makes for great entertainment duos. The synergy generated as they worked off one another provided a magnetism that made “This‘n That” such a success for more than twenty years.

Berry and Smith would often oppose one another on various issues and work their interplay into a mesmerizing radio drama. “He used to say to me, ‘Let’s see, Al… is it your day to pick on me or my day to pick on you?”

Along with its function as radio marketplace, “This ‘n That” provided an opportunity for the community to raise support for various local needs. Berry recalls a time when they raised over $30,000 to help pay the medical expenses for a child with leukemia. Originally only a half-hour segment, “This ‘n That” came to be a two hour morning show that ran until WPLA was sold in 1995. During the time WPLA was on the air, its most valuable function was serving the community with local news. Between Joe Wilson, Jack Rushing, and later Dick Shiflett with sports, WPLA provided comprehensive coverage of all that was happening in Plant City.

After leaving the radio station, Berry served on the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce for four years, acting as executive director for part of that time. During this time he helped to organize a horse show with the Paso Fino Horse Association. His work with the association eventually led to his current position at PFHA as marketing director. Berry now promotes the Paso Fino horse breed through web design, videography, news releases, public presentation, and a plethora of other means. Recently, the association produces a show that runs every weekend on RFD-TV with Direct TV and the Dish Network. As a result of these expansive marketing strategies, over 23 million homes were able to learn about the prestigious breed.

Berry also works in promoting an extensive list of other businesses and organizations. Much of this work is done from the state-of-the art studio in his own home. He recently finished a video project promoting the Relay For Life with the National Cancer Society. He handles the video promotion for the Ramada Inn Plantation House in Plant City and has covered the entertainment acts of Sammy Kershaw, the Marshall Tucker Band, the Supremes, and many others. Berry has been active on the Strawberry Festival board for over 30 years, serving in various administrative capacities. Of late, Berry has produced a video promoting the Strawberry Festival for RFD-TV, which was so successful that it is soon to run again.

Berry has served in the Air Force, been Plant City’s civil defense director, chairman of the board of adjustment for the city, served as president of the Lions Club, Dover Civic Club, and Band Parents Association, and served on the board of the Florida Association of Broadcasters, Plant City Archives, and Hillsborough Community College. His service has not gone without recognition. Berry received Plant City’s award for Citizen of the Year in 1998 and the Chamber of Commerce’s Good Egg award in June of 2003. Al and wife, Patsy, who has also volunteered in various capacities throughout the community, along with their three daughters, were voted Plant City’s Family of the Year in 1975.

Public accolades are nice, but it is the love and respect he receives at home that makes Al Berry truly grateful. “I think one thing that’s made my life so enjoyable is the fact that I’ve had the support of my wife, Patsy.” The feeling is clearly mutual. “He’s a truly wonderful man,” said Patsy. “He’s my hero.” Daughter, Karen, says she has never heard her father speak a negative word about anyone. “I just think he’s the greatest person in the world,” Karen said. “I wouldn’t want any other father but him.”

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 51

Snyder Investments & Financial Services Dean Snyder and his associates have the experience, resources, trackrecord and commitment to help you meet your most ambitous personal or business objectives.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 53

Snyder Investments & Financial Services Dean Snyder and his associates have the experience, resources, trackrecord and commitment to help you meet your most ambitous personal or business objectives.

Among our targeted services are: • Retirement Planning

• Long Term Care

• Estate Analysis/Planning

• Life Insurance

• Employment/Employee Benefits

• Securities

Deferred Compensation

• Annuities

• Business Continuation

• Mutual Funds

Disability Income

G. Dean Snyder, C.E.P. CERTIFIED ESTATE PLANNER *Securities offered through H. Beck Inc. (Member NASD, SIPC) 11140 Rockville Pike, 4th floor, Rockville, MD. 20852 • (301)-468-0100.*H. Beck , Inc. and Snyder Investments & Financial Services are not affiliated.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 53

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An Evening For “Picture Perfect” Memories.

As evidenced by the accompanying photographs, the Plant City Photo Archives’ 2nd annual “Evening of Picture Perfect Memories”, held Saturday, June 19th at the Ramada Inn Plantation House was a resounding success and demonstrated the depth of concern of the greater Plant City community about its history and heritage.

Photo # 1: The lovely Susan Kolker and Linda and Jodie Smith welcome guests to the Plant City Photo Archives’ 2nd annual soiree`.

Photo # 2: Mr. D. E. Bailey, this year’s Heritage Award recipient, stands with Plant City’s 1940 Strawberry Queen, Mrs. Catherine Fletcher Clark and the current Queen, Ms. Kaitlin Sharer.

Photo # 3 and # 4: While three generations of the Gibbs family enjoy one another and old friends and the evening’s festivities, Jodie Azorin is making a new friend. She and Jessica Rockwell, who is also an artist, get to know a little about one another.

An Evening For Picture Perfect Memories was made possible by: Ed Verner, Robert Trinkle, Gil Gott, B. M “Mac” Smith, Robert Edwards, Dr. Hal Brewer, James L. Redman, Judy Martin, Stanley and Susan Kolker, Linda and Jodi Smith, Marion Smith, W. D. “Dub” McGinnes, Dr. John and Mrs. Sally Verner, David E. Bailey, Jr. Lou and Gail McGrath, Mac McGrath, Billy and Maida Pou, Mac and Cookie Smith, Liz and Shorty Brown, Bill Parolini, Bruce and Margaret Rodwell, Dan Snyder, Doug Gibbs, Ken Gibbs, Tim Martin, Lou Baird, David Patton, Julia Ecenia, Edith Dexter Demeritte, Marsha Passmore, Vicki Hawthorne, Eleanore McDade, Rich and Judy Glorioso, Anne Haywood, Maribeth Mobley, Ph.D., Al Berry, LaRoyce Keene Builders, The Verner Foundation, the Plant City Civitan Club, the Florida Strawberry Festival, and all the wonderful couples and the beautiful strawberry queens who provided us with their photographs for our exhibits. We greatly appreciate them all.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 56

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 58

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Walden Lake Realty, Inc. ����������������������������� We are a full service realty company with 175 years of experience combined among our associates

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1607 S. Alexander Street, Suite 102 Plant City, Florida 33563 • (813) 752-2087 Outside Hillsborough: 1-800-735-2089 Website: www.waldenlakerealty.com E-Mail: office@waldenlakerealty.com

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 60

Walden Lake Realty, Inc.

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Call John Walmsley.

Eve 752-4835 One of many we have for sale.

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This custom built home, 4 bedroom, 3 full baths, (split bedroom plan) plus formal areas; on a beautiful corner lot in Walden Lake. Boasting of a floor to ceiling fireplace in family room, french doors lead from family room and master bedroom to the patio and pool area. Enjoy leisurely cook-outs with family and friends in the screened patio area with a sparkling pool and summer kitchen. The price includes all appliances. Priced to sell FAST, only $224,00. Call today for your appointment #108 Linda Howe, Broker-Associate.

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Walden Lake Realty, Inc. now expanding their property management division.

New Building to be completed in December. Need 3,000 square foot tenant or smaller. Will lease to suit.

Will sell portions of buildings. We have approximately 20,000 square feet left to build. For renters or buyers.

Come see the Plans. Many options available. Call Mac for more Details.

Beautiful Acreage. Remodeled 5/3 Home on property as well 12 stalls spread throughout.

3 barns plus tack room. 1/2 acre stocked pond. new roof and A/C. $655,000. Call Mac or Barbara Layton for more details.

Pre-Engineered for a 15,000 + square foot building.

Located at the entrance of Walden Lake. $450,000.00.

Come see the plans.

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Two building lots available 1+ acres each. Prime location. $34,900 each.

Will build to suit. Call David Miles for more info.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 - AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 61

Barbara Jean Kulyk

R E A L T O R

Cell: 813-781-1915

Walden Lake R E A LT Y, I N C . R E A LT O R S ®

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Unbelievably beautiful 'Newsome Built' golf course, lakefront home in marvelous Walden Lake. This special domicile boasts an endless list of amenities sure to please the buyer who will not settle for less. Graceful and stately with its classic brick and stucco facade, its impeccable lawn and landscaping, and its grand entry, complete with welcoming water fountain and elegantly leaded glass double doors, this home certainly exudes excellence...The buyer will appreciate 12 and 10 ft. volume and coffered ceilings, crown molding, rounded corners, light and view inviting sliding doors, designer ceiling fans and light fixtures, intercom systems, beautiful window treatments, gorgeous master suite with a relaxing jetted garden tub, elegant living and dining rooms (for those festive times), spacious upgraded kitchen overlooking tremendous family room and a very special view of garden lanai and lovely Koi pond (fish scooting among lily pads!), with wooden bridge and deck and relaxing hot tub...aahhh! Call Barbara Jean Kulyk on her cell for more info at 781-1915.

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Captivating Golf Course home offering luxurious yet practical space for the discerning home buyer. This custom built beauty is situated on the 3rd hole of The Hills with a magnificent fairway vista! This wonderful Walden Lake Brick front home has been meticulously cared for by the original proud owners who have given attention to every detail in the customized creation of their home. Buyers will appreciate the 2909 square feet of marvelous space with volume ceilings, crown molding. Berber carpet, lots of tile and impressive oaken stairway. There are 2 bedrooms and a special "miniroom" where the imagination can reign on the second floor with a fabulous master suite conveniently located on the first floor. Other features include: oversized 2 car garage with enough space for a golf cart, plentiful cabinets and closets. French doors, warming fireplace, extraordinary patio kitchen located on gorgeous pool/spa are. The amenity list goes on & on...To view this beautiful property. Call Barbara Jean Kulyk on her cell for more info at 781-1915.

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Peaceful reflection over one of the loveliest pond views ever...that is what you wil get, should you decide to make this special home all yours! Breath taking natural views beckon you upon entering. The fabulous Florida design of this home cannot be improved upon, that is for sure. There are tall glass sliders, generous sized windows, and stately volume ceilings throughout, enhancing the already inviting space. Impeccable good taste is apparent in the 18 inch designer tile, neutral carpet, corian counters, “crisp” white (raised panel) kitchen cabinetry, custom entertainment center, elegant master suite and versatile bonus/imagination room which can serve as that 4th bedroom, scholarly study or cheery gameroom. this remarkable home is perfected by a refreshing lanai/pool area (popular pavers) overlooking a stunning pond/conservation view...what more could you want? You might consider the (also available) enchanting and deeply wooded, adjacent lot!! Call Barbara Jean Kulyk on her cell for more info at 781-1915.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 62

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With endless possibilities...Practical and spacious 4 bedroom, 2 bath, doublewide manufactured home, nestled among giant shady oaks on gorgeous 2.9 acres in the ever desirable Midway area of Plant City! This fabulous property is surrounded by many stately homes (talk about location, location, location!) yet offers privacy that is hard to find these days. This special acreage is completely fenced and zoned AR (bring your horse or cow...). Buyers will envision a myriad of possibilites including roaming room for children and pets, future dream home site, and last but not least, a marvelous and private retreat providing peaceful ambiance for the soul. Call Barbara Jean Kulyk on her cell for more info at 781-1915.

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“A Lotta Lot” on which to build your “dream come true” home! Fabulous home site in gated and prestigeous community of charleston woods in friendly and fabulous Walden Lake in beautiful Plant City, Florida...winter strawberry capital and home of the famous strawberry festival! This beautiful homesite is one of the very last in the entire community! Donʼt miss out on this final opportunity. Call Barbara Jean Kulyk for prompt service at 813-781-1915.

DISCOVER WALDEN LAKE

SPECTACULAR Gorgeous 3/2 w/1,808 sq. ft. of LA. Gorgeous lot.

Fabulous pool w/waterfall spa. Formal living & dining. Expanded family room is 28x14 and feature wood burning fireplace & built in for large screen TV. Beautiful bamboo flooring and lush wall to wall.$200,000. Call Carl "SOLD" Seigel today at 813-759-1200.

ULTIMATE Custom 4/2 w/2,290 sq. ft. of LA. Breathtaking pool and huge fenced yard. New berber carpet. Dramatic interior with coffered ceiling in formal dining. Formal living w/skylights. Kitchen/family combo w/woodburning fireplace.$220,000. Call Carl "SOLD" Seigel at 813-759-1200.

REFINEMENT Waterfront paradise! 4/2 w/1, 836 Sq. Ft. of LA. Formal living & dining. Open kitchen/family area w/huge breakfast bar. Bleached wood cabinets. Screened lanai overlooks tranquil pond.$188,500. Call Carl "SOLD" Seigel at 813-759-1200

FLASHY 3/2 Great Room w/1,768 sq. ft. of LA. Dramtic entry w/celestory windows. Formal dining. Skyscraper ceilings and plant shelves. Eat-in kitchen. HUGE screened lanai overlooks lush fenced yard w/tropical plantings. $165,000. Call Carl "SOLD" Seigel at 813-759-1200

ENCHANTING 3/2 charmer w/1,732 sq. ft. of LA. HUGE screened lanai plus open party patio overlooking fenced yard. Pergo floors.

Formal living and dining. Family room. Skyscaper ceilings and plant ledges. Decorated to the "9's." Raised panel cabinetry in eat-in kitchen.$165,000. Call Carl "SOLD" Seigel at 813-759-1200.

CLASSY 4/2 built in 2000 w/1,825 sq. ft. of LA. Cul de sac location in area of homes of distinction. Large manicured fenced yard w/under truss lanai and block patio. Prisitine condition. $185,000. Call Carl "SOLD" Seigel at 813-759-1200

DRAMATIC Spectacular 3/2 w/1,850 sq. ft. of LA. Professionally decorated. A knock-out! Gorgeous screened pool. Fenced corner lot. Formal living & dining. Kitchen/family combo w/breakfast bar.$200,000. Call Carl "SOLD" Seigel at 813-759-1200.

DIVINE 4/2 w/1,861 sq. ft. of LA. Private treed paradise on quiet cul de sac. Huge 102x191 yard. Lovely screened pool. Formal living & dining. Kitchen/family combo w/party sized breakfast bar. Classy neighborhood. $192,500. Call Carl "SOLD" Seigel at 813-759-1200.

Carl “Sold” Seigel 35 Years Experience

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 63

Carl “Sold” Seigel The True Real Estate Consultant

35 Years Experience

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 65

HOME GUIDE

WALDEN LAKE REVIEW

The Walden Lake Review By: Ken Lawrence-Senior Writer These being the doldrum days of summer as we say in the news business, there’s not a heck of a lot going on with so many people away on vacation. In fact one of our top sources for info about Walden Lake is the General Manager of the Community Association, Tom Daramus.

When we called him for our monthly chat, we reached Tom in Iowa where he is vacationing and at the same time picking up a vintage car that he plans to tow back to Plant City and restore. Tom is also President of the Plant City Antique Car Show, which runs the third Saturday of every month. Now, instead of driving around McCall Park in a golf cart on car show nights, Tom will have his own vintage car to show-off.

Walden Lake Community Association President Jan Griffin has warned drivers that now we’re into the rainy season, please do not drive your vehicles on the grassy area alongside the roadways. The tires sink into the grass and damage our beautifully landscaped community. We’d like to think its teenagers joy riding but we’ve found out that drivers a lot older than teens have been guilty of this vandalism. Such was the case of a man who was caught on camera and by a neighbor, crashing through the gates at Griffin Blvd and Mud Lake Road. This individual (we’ll keep to ourselves what we really think he should be called) could have been charged with one or more offences but instead he has agreed to pay restitution for the gate replacement, around $2,000.

If there is a next time for anyone, police will be called.

Speaking about landscaping, the presidents of every community in Walden Lake have been invited to a special meeting in the coming weeks to discuss, among several items, the landscaping contract which runs out at the end of the year. A national firm out of Atlanta had the original contract and then a local firm was given a chance. Some association members are inclined to go back to the national company for a variety of reasons. If you have any thoughts on the landscaping issue, please call the Community Association Office at 754-8999 and voice your opinion.

There have been some dogs wandering about Walden Lake in the past couple of months. One mangy mutt frightened a little girl out riding her bike in Emerald Forest, so much so that she fled to a neighbor’s home for protection. Animal Control Take Note! Obviously the owners of these dogs refuse to do anything about their pets.

Association President Jan Griffin would like to see Plant City Police be a little more active to catch speeders along Timberlane and Griffin boulevards, especially. Police do issue citations but Mrs. Griffin and other Walden Lake residents feel the police could show a greater presence in this community that contributes such a large sum to the city budget.

While we’re at it, City Hall, please do a better job with the potholes!

Till Next Month!

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 66

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 67

The Coldwell Banker Mascot, RUSTY, has become synonymous with Ken Lawrence and his Award Winning Sales and Marketing success. Ken Lawrence-Realtor, Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, Listed and Sold more homes in the Plant City area so far this year than most agents do in a year.

More and More families are calling on Ken Lawrence for all their Real Estate Needs!

TRUST-EXPERIENCE-PROFESSIONALISM Call Ken Toll Free 1-877-442-7001

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 68

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Blackburn & Associates

Average Home $200,000 X 2% = $4,000.00 Average Home $200,000 X 4% = $8,000.00

Other Realtors

Average Home $200,000 X 7% = $14,000.00

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Blackburn & Associates

Average Home $200,000 X 2% = $4,000.00 Average Home $200,000 X 4% = $8,000.00

Great Investment - This .44 acre wooded lot is priced to sell Quickly! This lot is priced at nearly 1/2 the amount of the tax accessed price value. Call today, at this price it will go quickly. $16, 500

Hidden Jewel in Seffner This wonderfully secluded 3BR/2BA bath home tucked away on large lot located on a quiet street, lined with centuries old oak trees. This home interior features spacious kitchen with eating space, Bonus room, Living room/diningroom combo, alarm system, and inside utility room. this home also includes a screened porch and seperate workshop area. Great location just minutes from I-4 , I-75 and Brandon Mall.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 70

Horse Property- 3 BR/2BA/2-car garage home on 2.5+/- acres in the Knights area, 2,333 SF heated. In-ground gunite/concrete pool with screened enclosure. Fenced yard with 5-stall barn, workshop, utility shed, and 3+ car garage detached and the list just keeps going with extras. Call Blackburn & Associates Realty, 813-752-8852.

Waterfront Access to Rainbow Lake. This 4BR/2BA, home has 3200 sq.ft. of living space, offers a living room with a wood burning fire place, family room, dining room, eat-in kitchen and an extra large bonus room, screened porch, sundeck. The lot is over a half acre, the yard is absolutely gorgeous, with large oaks and beautiful flower gardens. Owner has a butterfly house that enhances the garden. Blackburn Realty 813-752-8852.

Other Realtors

Average Home $200,000 X 7% = $14,000.00

Rustic Charm - This 3/2 1518sq ft home is warm and inviting. With almost a full acre of land you can enjoy the best of country life and still be only minutes from Tampa, Brandon and Lakeland.

Call Angel Johnson 389-0414 or 752-8852.

Brand New Office- 3,000 SF office on Himes Ave. Back of building has a 4-car door garage attached; completely finished, dry walled, textured, lights, phone lines, cables and Internet. Call Blackburn & Associates Realty, 813-752-8852.

Great Starter Home in St Pete just minutes away from Downtown St. Pete and Tampa.

This home has been redone with new tile throughout, new wooden blinds and ceiling fans. The Privacy fence surrounds the spacious yard which has a sundeck, there is room to add a pool or add on to the house, if you would like. The price includes the appliances and the Rubbermaid shed. This one will go fast call for an appointment.

Lutz Area. This is a Great location close to 41 and Suncoast Parkway. This 1985 double wide "sold as is" sits on a quarter acre lot just behind Lake Como. The 1st $45000 gets this one.

4501 US Hwy 92 West; Plant City, FL 33563 • 813-752-8852 www.blackburnandassociatesrealty.com

1.5 Acres- in the Cork area, homes only.

Land is 100% high & dry. Lot #2.

1.5 Acres- Homes only, land is 100% high and dry. Lot #1 has nice trees and a well.

Waterfront on the Alafia River- 230'of water on 8.5 acres of land, all high & dry. Dock needs repairs. House is of little or no value.

Absolutely a must see. Call Linda Blackburn @813-752-8852.

Minutes from I-4, Great 3/2 on one acre in the Cork area. Built in 1991, you can't go wrong with this one it is ready for a worry free buyer! Water softner system, shed, dog kennels and New roof.

Stunning serine 3BR/2BA/2 car garage featuring Living/dining combo, wonderful eat in kitchen exiting to a tranquil sitting area, a screen patio area off the back of the house to enjoy the perfect manicured yard overlooking a conservation area and a large office attached with storage closet. This beautiful home is 2,019 square feet of living space on a cul-de-sac in a conservation area located in the desirable Walden Place neighborhood. This split floor plan is a must see, with many upgrades including Corian countertops, a new roof and A/C unit. Call Blackburn & Associates Realty 813-752-8852 to make an appointment to see this well maintained home.

Peaceful Country Life - This immaculate 3/2, 1428 Sq. Ft home is truly a rare find. The large family room features a beautiful brick fireplace, built in desk with built in bookshelves on each side. Situated on almost 1/2 acre with a privacy fence and an in-ground pool; this is sure to please call Angel Johnson@813-389-0414.

Immaculate - 4BR/3BA 3093 sq. ft. home located on Spring Hammock on a cul-de-sac in Walden lakes. This home is a fantastic location facing the conservation area. Great split floor plan with pocket doors throughout, ceiling fans in every room including the large master bath. There are 3 exits leading out to the screened in pool area with a heated pool.

Call Blackburn & Associates Realty 813-752-8852

Perfect Starter Home in Country Hills subdivision – built in 1995- Nice clean solid 3 bedroom 2 bath home with screened patio and fenced in back yard. Eat-in Kitchen and Formal dining room $120,000.00 Blackburn & Associates Realty 813-752-8852.

St. Pete Beach Condo- walk across the street to the beach. Condo has 2BR/2BA, plus bonus room for a total of 1,345 SF on the first floor of a five story building. Back of building is on the intercoastal with 2 large docks. Completely updated with new designer furniture. Call Peggy Saum @727-804-1717.

Boca Ciega Bay condo is situated on the intracoastal water way. Unit is on the second floor of a five story building. 2 bedrooms, 2 baths plus bonus room for a total of 1,350 sq. ft. heated. Condo is in the process of being updated. When finished, appliances, kitchen cabinets, countertops and sink will be new.

Bathrooms will also be updated with all new fixtures. Call Peggy Saum @727-804-1717.

Price reduced - Country living home located in the Cork area on 1.6 acres, beautifully landscaped on a cul-de-sac.

This wonderful 3BR/2BA home is a total of 2,068 Sq Ft. with a porch that wraps around the front and side of the house and an extra large screened lanai off the back with an open deck perfect for grilling. The inside features extra large bedrooms, nice sitting area in the master bedroom, alarm system, ceiling fans throughout the home, seperate laundry room,both the air conditioning and the roof have been replace within the last year, new water softner, each room wired for stereo & cable TV, and many other great extras. Call to make an appointment today to see this home today 813-752-8852.

Great Piece of Property - 4/2 with 1350sq.ft., built in 1995 on 2.5 acres of fenced land.

Features an above ground pool, with a great 48' deck attached to covered back porch.

Fullystockedpondw/separategatedentrance.

Also, 30'x28' 2-story pole barn fully equipped with power & concrete floors. $145,000. For more info, please call Linda Blackburn @ 813-752-8852

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 71

“Ours” is a relationship you can trust!

“We are so thankful for all of your hard work, and the personal dedication that it took to sell our home in just 4 weeks. We never knew that selling our home would be so easy. Thank you for always making our family feel like your family.”

The Binnion’s

SOLD

SHARON OURS MULTI-MILLON DOLLAR PRODUCER TEL:

Doug & Courtney with Children, Austin & Justin

763-0856

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 72

LOOKING FOR A BARGAIN? Put this on youy List... 3 bedroom Doublewide with front entry porch...

Lots of room... sets on a nice fenced lot... Needs some repair BUT offered at just $69,000.00 Call today for more info.

Call: Pam Pomfret 813-505-3977 or Louise Brock-Pugh 813-716-6580. pomfretp@tampabay.rr.com

ASK FOR PAM POMFRET OR LOUISE BROCK 507 W. DR, MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. BLVD. PLANT CITY, FL WWW.MCGRATHPOPPELL.COM

507 W. DR. MLK BLVD. PLANT CITY, FL. 33563 BEAUTIFUL HOME IN TOWN!...

This block home has 3BR/1BA, living and family rooms, 1,287 SF of living area, screened. lanai, and back fenced in for $109,000. #C2 For more info. please call Hope Delagarza @ 966-9946.

Need More Room? 3 bath country home on corner lot, all chain-link fenced...Master bedroom and bath is a real delight. “Bonus”... detached carport with workshop or office. offered at a modest... $155,000 #A8. Call Louise Brock or Pam Pomfret. (813) 754-8888

AFFORDABLE...

BRANDON AREA...

GREAT DEAL, COUNTRY HOME...

4 Bedroom, 2 Bath. Block in town. Huge city lot with tons of trees and landscaping. fireplace in familyroom, new carpet thru-out and all applicances included. Call for directions and to show. $125,000. #D5

BRANDON-TWO DUPLEXES ON 1/2 ACRE FOR ONE PRICE Great investment opportunity.

Both duplexes are 2BR/1BA. $275,000. #A3.For more info. please call Hope Delagarza @ 966-9946.

Call Jon Poppell for more details.

REDUCED $75,900

Over 2 acres and a 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath manufacture home in the woods. built-in range & hood.Needs to have well, but spetic tank & electric are provided and all impact fees are paid. #D3 Only $75,900. Call Don Phillips

COMMERCIAL LOCATION...PRIME SITE

5 ACRE MINI RANCH...

Office building in town - 3376 SF space currently divided into 2 suites. 8 offices total with reception and conference room space. High traffic exposure and plenty of parking - Multi purpose use for Business offices, restaurant, Church or retail... Easy to preview. #G8 Call Mac McGrath today for more details.

PRICE REDUCED BELOW APPRAISAL

Cute starter home 2 Possible 3 BR, 1 BA on nice lot, fenced backyard, hardwood floors, all appliances and washer & dryer included, great location near Southwestern College & easy access to Polk Parkway off Hwy 98 south, Wonʼt last long at this price ONLY 74,900 #B3 CALL: LINDA RICHEY - CELL-813-716-7446 OR LAKELAND AT: 863-701-9299

Ranch & oasis...together with 1,700+ SF Block home on 5 acres. Complete with 7 stall Barn including tack and birthing stall, 50 Round pen & 1.5 mol acre fenced pasture. Huge grandfather oaks around this gorgeous property and backs up to Pemberton Creek in Thonotosassa area. **$385,000** #B5 Call Trish Joyce for directions today.

Leading The Way In Real Estate In Your Neighborhood Since 1994. ������������ ������������������� �������� ��������������������

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 73

Performance Curbing

Beautify Your Yard

Commercial • Residential Create Your Own Design Curves • Circles • Corners

Easy Maintenance Affordable - Less Expensive Than Traditional Methods Durable - Will Not Rot, Rust, or Discolor

FREE Estimates

FOR SALE: $ 16,500.00 ������������������ ������������ ������������ �� For Sale

For Rent

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301 Wilder Rd. Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-9296

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 74

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PRESTIGIOUS PINEDALE . . . Discover nestled under confederate - jasmine draped trees this charming, quality-built, 2-story. Features over 4000 sq. feet. 4BD/3BA, office, hobby room, formal living and dining rms, cozy family rm w/ brick fireplace. Separate entry for bonus room/game room is ideal for teen‘s hangout or in-law suite. Lovingly maintained w/ upgraded cabinetry in baths and huge kitchen. Plenty of room for all guest to enjoy. Sparkling 20x40 pool w/ screened enclosure.

Huge 700+ sq. ft garage, offers workshop for Dad. Over ½ acre, a country retreat with city convenience. Discover all the amenities in this charming, family home.

UNDER THE OLD OAK TREE …Close to downtown, shopping, & more. Large fenced yard is beautifully landscaped.

2BD, possible 3rd BD, 2BA. 1 car garage, 1 car carport, and lots of storage. Newer roof and A/C unit. Security system installed is less than 1 yr. old. This home is a great value at $109,900. #60

CASUAL ELEGANCE Enter welcoming brick foyer with Lead-glass door, warm wood flooring in inviting formal LR, MB, & hall. Enjoy family dinners in formal DR, huge entertainment center in family rm, Large kitchen & breakfast rm w/ vaulted ceilings & plant shelves create a light & airey ambiance for the most discriminating cook. 4 Bdrms, 2 Bath & wonderful split Bd floor plan enhance this beautifully maintained home. New master bath is perfect retreat after a long day! Add a brick lanai & 2 car garage located on quiet cul-d-sac. This one will steal your heart at $179,900. #9

Value priced at $285,000.00. #10

WHAT A STEAL! Remodeled home with large lot covered by beautiful oaks. Gorgeous 3BD/2BA home has a huge screened porch that is perfect for family gatherings. Newly painted inside and out, new roof, and new carpet in bedrooms, living rm and family rm. Home has new tile in both baths and new vinyl flooring in kitchen.. Won't last long at $117,900. #23

SADDLE UP PARTNER! Nearly 5 beautiful, fenced acres with a bit of pasture, woods and chain linked homestead area.

Located in convenient, country locale with compatible homes enhances future value. Delightful large Family room with cozy, brick fireplace, charming breakfast room alcove and huge office or 4th separate bedroom. Huge concrete parking pad and Dad’ll love new 10x20 Smith-Built utility shed and screened porch.

Don’t miss out on this great opportunity at $189,900 #24

PAINTED WITH SUNSHINE! This freshly painted 2200 sq ft home and neighborhood is a joyous place to be. You’ll love this bright, cheerful home with 4BD/2BA. Formal LR, DR, Breakfast area, huge FR w/ fireplace. Wonderful split floor plan perfect for family. New carpet, huge lot, 2 c garage and relaxing screen lanai situated on a quiet cul-de-sac…a value at $189,900. #4

������� 3BD/1.5BA - 1,300 SF - $895/mo.

���������� ���������� ENTRY TO WALDEN LAKE! NEVER LEAVE TARA... Scarlet would have loved this beautiful, custom built 2-story. 4 or 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, better than new with gorgeous staircase, formal LR & DR, huge FR w/ fireplace, gourmet kitchen w/ granite counters, ceramic tile flooring, and huge bonus room for the gang. Custom moldings throughout enhance this country retreat on 5 acres. Conveniently located near I-4 in an area of million dollar homes and priced to sell at $430,500. #8

Don’t miss this opportunity! 8.92 Ac, ideal for church, development, south of new YMCA, is pretty, high and dry! Additional sites adjoin parcel and are available. Call for more details. $895,000. #65

HOME SWEET HOME This warm & welcoming 4 BD, 2BA, LR, DR offers high ceiling w/ moldings, huge country kitchen. Beautifully maintained on over 1/3 ac in convenient area. Enjoy huge workshop, deck, pool & screen porch, framed in c/l fencing this charming bungalow will steal your heart. Priced to sell at $129,900. #35

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 75

HOME GUIDE

FEATURE HOME

As you drive through the orange groves over your private road and approach the property, you will immediately have a sense of total seclusion. There’s a two car garage in a separate building from the main house and there is also a finished room that can be use as a guest bedroom, office or a home-based business.

There’s also a half bath in the garage that has its own central air conditioning system.

Let’s use our imagination! You awaken at dawn on a Saturday morning following a peaceful sleep with the only sounds being heard were that of birds, reptiles and chirping insects. Following a hearty breakfast of bacon, sausages, eggs, hash browns and grits, washed down by a steaming cup of latte, out the door you go and down to the boat dock, with its electric lift (davits) and into your yacht (ok, it’s only a small bass boat). You sail away out onto Lake Lowery.

We’re not writing about jumping aboard an airline and flying off to some distant location. Why would you want to do so when you can drive down I-4 to Haines City and have your own piece of paradise on an almost 1,000 acre private lake? Such is the setting for this month’s Feature Home in FOCUS, a wonderful property located on Lake Lowery and surrounded by acres and acres of orange groves.

You locate your favorite fishing spot (locals will help you find such a place among many) and you cast your line into the pristine water. Within minutes you’re fighting a five pound bass on your line. The exercise will work-off that huge breakfast. Is that living, or what? This

The 2,400 square foot home has been designed and decorated in old Florida charm but with all modern conveniences. The property was once owned by a member of the famous Florida citrus growing family, the Griffin’s, whose relatives include Katherine Harris, former Florida Secretary of State (she of the ‘hanging Chad Affair’). The present owners are the Williams family of Plant City.

The home has two very large bedrooms, two full bathrooms, separate living and family rooms and a wonderful dining room looking out over the lake. There are not too many places in the home where one does not see the water. The kitchen has stainless steel appliances with plenty of cabinet and closet space.

Take a drive down I-4 to EXIT 48 (Lake Alfred-Winter Haven), loop around the interchange and head south about a quarter of a mile where the highway forks. Turn left onto the Old Polk City Highway and follow it about 4 miles to Lake Lowery Road and turn right. Follow Lake Lowery Road, which twists and turns through some wonderful orange groves and other farmland, including a miniature pony farm.

Look for the Ken Lawrence-Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate signs on your left and follow the private road to the property, which is just under 2 acres in size.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 76

property could be yours, as the Williams family has decided to offer it FOR SALE through your Realtor and Writer, Ken Lawrence.

Back to the dock and how about a swim? The lake has a sandy bottom. Or how about simply sitting on the dock with a good book and feed the fish with dry cat or dog food?

Take a walk around your property with many species of wild plant life. Watch a family of armadillos scurry-by, pick an orange or two,

HOME GUIDE

FEATURE HOME

walk over to see your neighbors (while secluded, other homes are nearby). Got a hobby, such as woodwork? The garage has plenty of room for any hobbyist to do his or her work. The previous owner built an atrium beside the family room where he cultivated rare orchids. The atrium controls light, heat and moisture.

We’re sure you’re pretty tired after this long day outdoors. So step inside your Showcase home, have a quick shower, grab a beverage and go to the Family Room and stretch out to watch the Gators, Noles or Canes beatup on Tennessee, Maryland or Syracuse.

(OK, we’re getting ahead of ourselves here, but football season is not too far off) This home on Lake Lowery could be a once in a lifetime purchase for you and your family. Waterfront property is something of a rare find in Florida these days and what is available is being sold at a premium price.

Call: Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate-Toll Free-1-877-442-7001 or check out Ken’s WEB site, floridamoves.com/ken.lawrence and look for a VIRTUALTOUR of this home at 9095 Lake Lowery Rd., Haines City, 33844.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 77

D L O

S

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 78

HOME HOMEGUIDE GUIDE

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW doubled the size of the house. To save on the permit application fees, the homeowners asked the contractor to skip the permit process.

Home inspectors often recommend that the buyer obtain a permit history on a home they want to buy. However, most buyers don’t heed this advice, which can lead to problems later.

One homeowner who didn’t check the permit history before she bought found out after closing that a remodeling permit issued in the seller’s name had never received final city approval. She discovered this when her contractor applied for a permit to do some more remodeling. The city wouldn’t issue a new permit until the outstanding permit received a final clearance.

When the city inspector checked the work, he refused to pass it because it hadn’t been done properly. The homeowner had to make the corrections before the city would issue a permit for any further work on the property.

This was an expense she hadn’t anticipated, and it delayed her remodeling.

Another homeowner converted a detached garage on his property to a bedroom and bathroom for his daughter. This work was done by licensed contractors, but without a building permit. When the homeowner listed his house for sale, a neighbor reported the illegal living unit to the city planning department.

The city issued a violation notice to the homeowner. When the buyers were told of this, they insisted that the homeowner bring the unit into compliance with city requirements. The unit was so close to the property line that it was impossible to make it legal. The only way to comply was to remove the structure or obtain a variance, which was denied.

Homeowners often do work without permits to save money. However, this can end up costing more in the long run. For example, one couple that had outgrown their home hired a contractor to do a major addition that virtually

Later, when the home was sold, the appraiser for the buyer’s lender refused to give full value to the addition because the work was done without permits. To save the sale transaction, the sellers had to apply for permits after the fact, which meant paying penalties in addition to the permit application fees.

You may have to visit the planning department to search the permit record of a home you want to buy. But, even though this takes time, it should be included in your due diligence investigations of the property.

It’s particularly important to check the permit history if you’re buying a property that’s advertised as having a rental unit that generates income.

If you find out later that the rental unit wasn’t done with permits and in compliance with building code requirements, you might lose an income stream that you were depending on.

If you’re buying a home that has been remodeled over time, there’s a good chance that some of the work was done without permits. It’s a good idea to ask sellers if all work was done with permits. In Florida sellers are required to inform perspective buyers of work done without a permit.

However, in some cases, the sellers may not be aware that work was done without permits. Sometimes contractors don’t take out permits to save time. So, it’s important to check this.

Before you buy a home where work has been done without permits, make sure you understand what the future consequences might be. If you search the permit record during your inspection contingency time period, there’s an opportunity to negotiate a satisfactory resolution to permit issues before you close. Otherwise, you may be stuck with fixing a problem at your own expense.

has become one of the most important decisions made by the homeowners to enhance the beauty of their home.

Years ago, most contractors used small tiles in bathrooms, allowing more grout joints and adding problems to the consumer and the applications were performed over green board.

Thankfully, the industry has moved toward larger tiles, eliminating excessive grout joints and replacing green boards with a better and more reliable product (Wonder Board). Also there is a beautiful line of listellos, tumble stones and inserts, to create an exceptional look to any of your rooms.

If you need a free estimate for your bathroom or flooring, please contact us or visit our showroom.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 79

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 80

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 81

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Register online @ http://www.hccfl.edu

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8:00a-9:15a MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY CGS 1000 28873 Intro to Computers/Tech 3 PTEC 118 ENC 1101 26989 Freshman English I 3 PTEC 116 (ENC 1101 #26989 is computer assisted instruction.)

ENC 1102 27086 Freshman English II 3 PADM 115 MAC 1105 27393 College Algebra 3 PADM 116 PSY 2012 28025 General Psychology 3 PSCI 120 SLS 1501 28179 College Success 3 PADM 118 9:00a-12:25p MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY EVS 2894C 29071 Environl Smpling Analys II 5 PEPC 119 9:30a-10:45a MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY ACG 2021 26036 Financial Accounting 3 PSCI 106 AMH 1010 26087 Early American History 3 PSCI 104 BSC 1010 30300 Biological Science I 3 PSCI 118 BSC 1086 26347 Human Anatomy & Phys II 3 PSCI 119 ENC 1101 26988 Freshman English I 3 TBA GLY 1001 27210 Earth Science 3 PSCI 112 HUM 2210 27288 Wld Hmnities:Phst-Erly Md 3 PADM 118 MAC 1105 27364 College Algebra 3 TBA MCB 1000L 27636 Microbiology Lab 1 PSCI 109 MGF 1106 27674 Math for Liberal Arts I 3 PADM 107 SPC 1600 29047 Public Speaking 3 PADM 120 SYG 2000 28309 Intro to Sociology 3 PSCI 120 11:00a-12:15p MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY ACG 2071 26056 Managerial Accounting 3 PSCI 106 AMH 1010 26086 Early American History 3 PSCI 104 CGS 1000 28874 Intro to Computers & Tech 3 PTEC 118 ENC 1101 26986 Freshman English I 3 PADM 115 HUM 2230 27300 Wrld Humnities:Erly Md-Ct 3 PADM 118 PSY 2012 27987 General Psychology 3 PSCI 120 11:00a-12:40p MONDAY GLY 1001L 27231 Earth Science Lab 1 PSCI 112 11:00a-12:40p WEDNESDAY GLY 1001L 27236 Earth Science Lab 1 PSCI 112 11:00a-1:30p MONDAY BSC 1010L 30301 Biological Sciences I Lab 1 PSCI 118 12:30p-3:30p MONDAY ARH 1000 30381 Art Appreciation 3 TBA Mobley Learning Community: Co-requisites: [ENC 1101 #30382 Fresh English I TTH 12:30p-1:45p] [SPC 1600 #30383 Public Speaking TTH 2::00p-3:15] 1:00p-2:15p MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY AMH 1020 26141 Modern American History 3 PSCI 104 ENC 1102 27126 Freshman English II 3 PADM 103 MAT 1033 27621 Intermediate Algebra 3 PADM 118 SYG 2000 28310 Intro to Sociology 3 PSCI 120 1:00p-2:25p MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY CGS 1555 26459 Intro to Internet 3 PTEC 118 1:00p-3:30p MONDAY BSC 1086L 26358 Anatomy & Phys II Lab 1 PSCI 119 1:00-3:30p WEDNESDAY BSC 1086L 26360 Anatomy & Phys II Lab 1 PSCI 119 2:00p-5:05p WEDNESDAY EVS 1001 29070 Intro Environmental Science 3 PEPC 119

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 82

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8:00a-9:15a TUESDAY AND THURSDAY CIS 2321 29018 Systems Analysis 3 PTEC 118 COP 1000 28745 Programming Logic 3 PSCI 111 ENC 1101 26985 Freshman English I 3 PADM 103 MAT 1033 29052 Intermediate Algebra 3 PADM 117 Fujita PHI 1010 27882 Intro to Philosophy 3 PSCI 114 PSY 2012 28026 General Psychology 3 PSCI 120 9:30a-10:45a TUESDAY AND THURSDAY AMH 1020 26124 Modern American History 3 PSCI 104 BSC 1085 26293 Human Anat & Phys I 3 PSCI 120 CGS 1000 28877 Intro to Comp & Tech 3 PTEC 118 Blick ENC 1101 27034 Freshman English I 3 PADM 103 MAC 1114 30329 Trigonometry 3 TBA Baird MCB 1000L 27634 Microbiology Lab 1 PSCI 109 PHI 1600 27903 Ethics 3 PSCI 114 PSY 2012H 28029 Honors General Psych 3 PSCI 116 Mellan STA 2023 28288 Elementary Statistics 3 PADM 120 Achenbach 9:30a-11:10a TUESDAY AND THURSDAY BSC 1005C 26238 Biological Foundations I 3 PSCI 118 Finch 11:00a-12:15p TUESDAY AND THURSDAY AMH 1010 26088 Early American History 3 PSCI 104 CGS 2301 28881 Management Info Systems 3 PTEC 118 ENC 1102 27088 Freshman English II 3 PADM 103 MAC 1105 27363 College Algebra 3 PADM 117 Golden PADM 118 Achenbach MAT 1033 27572 Intermediate Algebra 3 MCB 1000 27625 Microbiology/Hum Disease 3 PSCI 114 11:00a-1:15p TUESDAY AND THURSDAY MAC 2312 27435 Calc & Analytic Geom II 5 PADM 116 Baird 12:30p-1:45p TUESDAY AND THURSDAY ENC 1101H 27062 Honors Freshman English I 3 PADM 118 Mobley ENC 1101 30382 Freshman English I 3 TBA NelsonLearning Community (30382) Co-requisites: [ARH 1000 #30381 M 12:30p-3:30p and SPC 1600 #30383 TTH 2:00p-3:15p] 1:00p-2:15p TUESDAY AND THURSDAY BSC 1025 26271 Nutrition and Drugs 3 PSCI 118 Finch ENC 1101 26987 Freshman English I 3 PADM 115 MCB 1000L 27635 Microbiology Lab 1 PSCI 109 MGF 1106 27669 Math for Liberal Arts I 3 PADM 117 Golden 1:00p-2:25p TUESDAY AND THURSDAY CGS 1000 28878 Intro to Computers & Tech 3 PTEC 118 Blick 1:00p-3:30p TUESDAY BSC 1085L 26321 Anatomy & Phys I Lab 1 PSCI 119 1:00p-3:30p THURSDAY BSC 1085L 26323 Anatomy & Phys I Lab 1 PSCI 119 2:00p-3:15p TUESDAY AND THURSDAY SPC 1600 30383 Public Speaking 3 TBA Nelson Learning Community Co-requisites: [ARH 1000 30381 M 12:30p-3:30p and ENC 1101 30382 TTH 12:30p-1:45p] 2:00p-4:45p TUESDAY AML 2020H 28976 Honors Amer Lit II 3 TBA Mobley 2:00p-5:20p THURSDAY IDS 1152H 27337 Honors Environmental Sci 3 PADM 115 2:30p-4:10p THURSDAY BSC 1025L 26285 Nutrition & Drugs Lab 1 PSCI 118 Finch

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4:50-5:45p MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY CGS 1107 26420 Intro to Computers (CGS 1107 #26420 Begins August 25 Ends October 18) 5:30-6:45p MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY BSC 1085 26294 Human Anatomy & Phys I CHM 1025 26503 Modern Chemistry ENC 1101 27045 Freshman English I ENC 1101 27055 Freshman English I HOS 1010 27262 Horticultural Science MAT 1033 27573 Intermediate Algebra MCB 1000 27630 Microbiology/Hum Disease 6:00p-8:50p WEDNESDAY CGS 1000 28879 Intro to Computers & Tech 6:00p-9:25p MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY EVS 2893C 27141 Envir Sampling & Analysis

7:00p-8:15p MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY MCB 1000L 27641 Microbiology Lab SYG 2000 28308 Intro to Sociology 7:00p-8:40p MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY AST 1002C 26225 Astronomy 7:00p-8:40p MONDAY CHM 1025L 26513 Modern Chemistry Lab 7:00p-9:30p MONDAY BSC 1085L 26320 Hum Ana & Phy I Lab 7:00-9:30p WEDNESDAY BSC 1085L 26322 Hum Ana & Phy I Lab 7:00p-9:45p MONDAY CGS 1000 28880 Intro to Computers & Tech HUM 2210 27289 Wld Hmnities:Phst-Erly Md PSY 2012 28016 General Psychology 7:00p-9:45p WEDNESDAY ENC 1102 27087 Freshman English II 7:00p-9:45p MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY ECO 1013 26755 Macroeconomics (ECO 1013 #26755 Begins August 25 Ends October 20.)

ECO 1023 26769 Microeconomics (ECO 1023 #26769 Begins October 25 Ends December 13.)

MGF 1106 27670 Math for Liberal Arts I (MGF 1106 #27670 Begins August 25 Ends October 18 MGF 1107 29053 Math for Liberal Arts II (MGF 1107 #29053 Begins October 19 Ends December 13.)

7:00p-9:50p MONDAY ORH 1510 27789 Plant Identification I 7:00p-9:50p WEDNESDAY ORH 1220 28887 Turf & Landscape Maint 3:30p-5:10p TUESDAY AND THURSDAY SPN 1121 28267 Elementary Spanish II 4:30-5:45p TUESDAY AND THURSDAY SLS 1501 28190 College Success 5:30p-6:45p TUESDAY AND THURSDAY ACG 2021 26037 Financial Accounting BSC 1025 26263 Nutrition & Drugs BSC 1086 26346 Human Anatomy & Phys II ENC 1102 27125 Freshman English II MAC 1105 27362 College Algebra MAC 2233 27411 Calculus for Business STA 2023 28291 Elementary Statistics 5:30p-7:10p TUESDAY AND THURSDAY SPN 1120 28257 Elementary Spanish I 5:30-8:20p TUESDAY SOS 1102 28199 Soils/Fertilizers 5:20-8:20p THURSDAY ORH 1820 28753 Irrigation/Water Mgt 5:30p-9:20p THURSDAY GEO 1153 29073 Survey Geo Inf Sys/Glob (GEO 1153 #29073 Begins August 26 Ends September 16) 5:30p-9:25p TUESDAY EVS 2891 27140 Hydrlogy/Quality Water Res 5:30p-9:50p THURSDAY GEO 2150 29074 Fund/Geo Info Systems (GEO 2150 #29074 Begins September 23 Ends December 9) 6:00p-8:50p TUESDAY CGS 1550 28743 Intro to Networking 6:00p-8:50p THURSDAY CGS 1000 28875 Intro to Computers & Tech EVS 1001 29069 Intro to Environ Science 7:00p-8:40p TUESDAY BSC 1025L 26277 Nutrition and Drugs Lab 7:00p-9:15p TUESDAY AND THURSDAY MAC 1147 27408 Pre-Calculus Algebra & Trig 7:00p-9:30p TUESDAY BSC 1086L 26357 Human Anat & Phy II Lab 7:00p-9:45p TUESDAY AMH 1020 26125 Modern American History SPC 1600 29050 Public Speaking SYG 2000 28338 Intro to Sociology 7:00p-9:30p THURSDAY BSC 1086L 26365 Human Anat & Phys II Lab 7:00p-9:45p THURSDAY ARH 1000 26188 Art Appreciation SPC 1600 29051 Public Speaking 7:00p-9:45p TUESDAY AND THURSDAY EDF 1005 26783 Intro to Education (EDF 1005 #26783 Begins August 25 Ends October 20.)

EDG 2701 26798 Teaching Diverse Pop (EDG 2791 #26798 Begins October 25 Ends December 13.)

GEB 1011 29045 Intro to Business (GEB 1011 #29045 Begins August 25 Ends October 18) MAN 1021 29046 Prin of Management (MAN 1021 #29046 Begins October 19 Ends December 13

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PEPC

109

EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY HSC 1220 27268 Intro to Health Sciences 1 PSCI 122 (HSC 1220 27268 Saturday September 11 8:00a-5:00p (web enhanced) or HSC 1220 27270 Intro to Health Sciences 1 PSCI 122 (HSC 1220 27270 Saturday September 25 8:00a-5:00p (web enhanced) Required prerequisite/co-requisite to EMS courses 11:00a-2:30p TUESDAY AND THURSDAY EMS 1119 26830 Emergency Medical Tech 7 PSCI 122 Co-requisites: EMS 1119L 26836 (EMT Practicum) M 11:30a-5:30p (2 cr) OR EMS 1119L 30495 (EMT Practicum) W 11:30a-5:30p (2 cr.) and EMS 1431 26842 EMT Clinical (1 cr.) Off-Campus 6:00p-9:50p MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY EMS 1119 26828 Emergency Medical Tech 7 PSCI 122 Co-requisites: EMS 1119L 26834(EMT Practicum) T 3p-8:30p (2 cr.) or EMS 1119L 30494 (EMT Practicum TH 3p-8:30p (2 cr.) and EMS 1431 26841 (EMT Clinical) TBA (1cr.) Off campus NURSING-RESERVED FOR STUDENTS ACCEPTED INTO PROGRAM ONLY 8:00a-12:00p TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY NUR 2242C 27762 Adult Healthcare III 5.5 PSCI 122 Meets Aug. 25-Oct. 15 Clinicals Thurs & Fri. Day/ Even.Aug.26-Oct.15 Taken with NUR 2823C #29076 9:00a-12:00p TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY, and THURSDAY NUR 2823C 29076 Leadership /Health Care 2.5 PSCI 102 Meets Oct. 20-Dec. 10 Clinicals with preceptors-Class first week onlyTaken with NUR 2242C #27762 9:00a-12:00p TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY NUR 1520C 29042 Nursing Care Mental Health 5 PSCI 110 Meets Aug. 25-Oct. 15. Clinicals Thurs. & Fri. Day/Evening Aug. 26-Oct. 15 Taken with NUR 2310 #27766 NUR 1520C 29043 Nursing Care Mental Health 5 PSCI 110 Meets Oct. 18-Dec. 13. Clinicals Thurs. & Fri. Day/Evening Oct. 21-Dec. 10 Taken with NUR 2420 #29044 NUR 2310C 27766 Child Health Care 5 PSCI 122 Meets Oct. 18-Dec.13. Clinicals Thurs. & Fri. Day/Even. Oct. 21-Dec. 10 Taken with NUR 1520C #29042 NUR 2420C 29044 Newborn Health Care 5 PSCI 102 Meets Aug. 25-Oct. 15. Clinicals Thurs. & Fri. Day/ Even. Aug. 26-Oct. 15. Taken with NUR 2823 #29096 12:30p-3:00p TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY NUR 1020C 27758 Basic Health Needs 8 PSCI 102 Meets Aug. 25-Dec. 13 Clinicals Thurs.& Fri. Days Aug. 26-Dec. 13 8:00a-11:35a SATURDAY CGS 1107 26424 Intro to Computers 1 PTEC 116 CGS 1107 #26424 Begins August 28 Ends October 2 8:00a-11:50a SATURDAY EVR 1328 29075 Natural Resource Conserv 3 PEPC 119 8:00a-12:05a SATURDAY EVS 2793 29072 Srcs Effects Air Pollution 4 PEPC 119 8:30a-11:20a SATURDAY CGS 1000 28876 Intro Computrs & Tech 3 PTEC 118

DISTANCE LEARNING--ON-LINE COURSES Computer, modem, & dial-up access required. Some computer experience is suggested.

CGS 1000 28909 Intro Computers/Tech 3 PTEC 118 Andrews Mandatory First Meeting August 28 at 11:30 a.m.- call 757-2157 for more info CGS 1555 26460 Intro to Internet 3 PTEC 118 Blick Mandatory First Meeting August 27 at 1:00 p.m. or August 28 at 1:00 p.m. Call 757-2246 or 757-2222 for more info CGS 2541 28770 Database Design 3 PTEC 118 Blick Mandatory First Meeting August 27 at 2:30 p.m. or August 28 at 2:30 p.m. Call 757-2246 or 757-2222 for more info

AGRI-BUSINESS INTERNSHIP AEB

1949

28888

Agri-Business Internship

3

Miller-Anderson

HORTICULTURE-LOWRY PARK-TAMPA 8:00a-9:50a ORH 1021

10:00a-1:50a

3 3 3 3 3 3 3

PSCI PSCI PSCI PADM PADM PADM PADM

106 118 119 115 107 117 120

4

PSCI

110

3

PEPC

109

Miller-An

3

PEPC

109

Miller-An

1

PEPC

123

Vergara

4

PEPC

119

Vergara

3

PEPC

123

Vergara

3

PTEC

118

3 3

PTEC PEPC

118 119

1

PSCI

118

5

PADM 117

1

PSCI

3 3 3

PSCI 104 PADM 120 PSCI 120

1

PSCI

3 3

PADM 118 PADM 120

3

PADM 103

119

8:30p-9:50p TUESDAY AND THURSDAY ORH 1252 28886 Retail Nursery Operations

ORH 1021L

6:00p-8:00p ORH 1524

Plant Propagation

2

Olson

Plant Propagation Lab

2

Olson

Native Wetland Plants

2

Olson

SATURDAY 28884

THURSDAY 28885

COLLEGE PREPARATORY COURSES PLANT CITY CAMPUS FALL TERM 2004 04/FA

Golden Achenbach

Courses are compensatory--no credit applied to AA or AS degrees.

"C" COURSE DENOTES COMBINED LECTURE AND LAB.

9:30a-12:25a

MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY

MAT 0002C 27496 College Prep Math (MAT 0002C #27496 Self-paced modules utilizing video & online tutoring) MAT 0024C 27534 College Prep Algebra REA 0001C 28053 Prep Reading Skills I REA 0002C 28080 Prep Reading Skills II

1p-3:55p MAT

0002C

6p-8:55p MAT MAT REA REA

0002C 0024C 0001C 0002C

9:30a-12:25a ENC ENC MAT

0010C 0020C 0002C

1p-3:50p Achenbach

SATURDAY 28883

MAT

024C

6p-8:55p ENC ENC MAT

0010C 0020C 0024C

5

TBA

Golden

5 5 5

TBA PSCI 111 PADM 103

Baird

5

PADM 107

5 5 5 5

PADM PSCI PADM PADM

5 5 5

PADM 106 PADM 115 PADM 107

Fujita

5

PADM 107

Achenbach

5 5 5

PSCI 102 PADM 103 PADM 107

MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY 27466

College Prep Math

MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY 27495 27550 28054 28098

College Prep Math College Prep Algebra Prep Reading Skills I Prep Reading Skills II

117 110 103 116

TUESDAY AND THURSDAY 26919 26942 27467

Prep Writing Skills I Prep Writing Skills II College Prep Math

TUESDAY AND THURSDAY 27513

College Prep Algebra

TUESDAY AND THURSDAY 26902 26946 27514

Prep Writing Skills I Prep Writing Skills II College Prep Algebra

119

3

PADM 107

3

PSCI

106

3

PSCI

106

COLLEGE PREPARATORY COURSES PLANT CITY CAMPUS FALL TERM 2004 04/FA Courses are compensatory--no credit applied to AA or AS degrees.

"C" COURSE DENOTES COMBINED LECTURE AND LAB.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 83

BUSINESS & FINANCE

COMMUNICATING TODAY

Unexpected Uses for Camera Phones One of the hottest features on new wireless phones are digital cameras, photos from which can be stored for later viewing, e-mailed to friends and family, or downloaded to users’ personal computers.

While the new technology is a nice perk, many consumers have been left scratching their heads over how to take advantage of their new phones. One of the great things about camera phones is that while consumers often leave their digital cameras at home, they are rarely without a wireless phone when out and about. Here are a few creative uses for camera phones that almost anyone can make use of: Home repairs - Take a picture of a leaky pipe or broken appliance and e-mail the picture to a repairman to help them bring the correct parts for the job.

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Shopping - Snap a shot of clothing and send it to a friend to get fashion input on whether you should buy it or not. Also, you can snap shots of hairstyles or clothing in fashion magazines to refer to when shopping or visiting the stylist.

Insurance - If you get in a fender-bender, be sure to take a picture of the other car’s license plate and any damage in case the offending driver tries to drive off without leaving insurance information.

Businesses - Take before and after pictures of jobs, such as a driveway before and after tarring, houses before and after painting, or products before shipping to document any pre-existing conditions that might cause conflicts with customers.

Wedding Plans - Take pictures of special flower arrangements, bridal gowns, tuxedos, or possible venues to review later with your significant other.

Lines of Communication is the premier communications consulting company based in the Tampa Bay area serving customers nationally for their local, long distance, Internet, data and conferencing needs. Representing over 30 providers, Lines of Communication can help you find the right solution for your business’ communication needs. Call today for your free no obligation analysis.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 84

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C E R T I F I C A T E S

BUSINESS & FINANCE

INVESTING

Financial Focus Declare Your Financial Independence Recently, we celebrated the independence of the United States. But isn’t it time for you to declare your financial independence? To accomplish this, you don’t need to revolutionize your life — but you do need to march in the right direction.

To become financially independent, your first step — and probably your most important one — is to control your debt. And debt is a serious problem for many Americans. Just last year, personal bankruptcies hit a record high, according to the American Bankruptcy Institute. And, in the fourth quarter of 2003, credit-card delinquencies also reached a record high, according to the American Bankers Association.

What can you do to avoid the “debt trap?” For starters, consider some good advice your parents or grandparents might have given you: If you can’t afford to buy something, don’t. Far too many of us follow the “buy now, pay later” philosophy — only to regret our decisions when “later” finally arrives.

Even while you’re lowering your debt, you can seek opportunities to boost your savings and investments. And you don’t even have to find massive amounts of money to put away. Look for the small things you can do: Bring your lunch once in a while, skip the expensive espresso a few times a week, avoid purchasing new clothes you don’t really need, etc. If you can come up with just $50 a month in savings, and you invest this money, you can really help yourself.

If you’re skeptical about how much good $50 a month can do, consider this: If one were to invest $50 a month for 30 years in a tax-deferred account, such as an IRA, and the investment earned a hypothetical 7 percent rate of return, compounded annually, the money would grow to approximately $60,000 — a nice little chunk for retirement. (Keep in mind that this calculation is merely an illustration; it does not represent an actual investment.)

Of course, the more money you save, the sooner you can reach your desired level of financial independence. But, as you know, after you pay your bills, it’s not always easy to find money with which to invest.

That’s why you need to pay yourself first. Consider setting up a bank authorization to automatically route a certain amount of money each month into a growth-oriented investment. As your salary increases, boost the amount of money you put away.

Here’s one more move you can make to move toward financial freedom: Contribute as much as you can afford to your 401(k) or employer-sponsored retirement plan. Your 401(k) offers you two key tax advantages. First, your earnings grow on a tax-deferred basis, so it will accumulate faster than it would if placed in an investment on which you pay taxes every year. Second, you typically fund a 401(k) with pre-tax dollars, so, the more you contribute, the lower your taxable income. If you can’t afford to put in the maximum amount (which, in 2004, is $13,000, or $16,000 if you’re 50 or older), at the very least, put in enough to earn your employer’s “match,” if one is offered.

Financial independence doesn’t come easily or quickly. But you can achieve it — by making a determined effort. And the best time to start is today.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 85

BUSINESS & FINANCE

BUSINESS PROFILE Whether you’re driving around Plant City and area, in a store, restaurant, car repair shop or some outdoor event, it will be highly likely you’ll see an advertising sign produced

by TM Signs. In fact, their equipment is so stateof-the-art that some other sign companies send their work to TM for production.

A relatively new product that TM Signs has embarked on is vehicle wrapping, whereby a car, van, bus or truck are partially or completely

There has been some debate over the years that Americans have become “Sign Crazy”, placing all types of product and service notification anywhere they see fit. Governments have attempted to control the “sign flood”, especially along highways and byways, but even then, such ads pop-up just about everywhere.

Supporters say that is The American Way, simply a part of our culture and back in the 1960’s an artist immortalized himself by turning advertising into an art form. He was, of course Andy Warhol.

Rather than fight advertising, companies have sprung-up to produce signs that are artistic, tasteful and professional. One such company is TM signs in Plant City, owned and operated by a PC High School graduate, Todd McClernan, who once had ambitions to become a TV journalist. After trying his hand at radio and TV reporting in Orlando and Tampa, his last stint being at Bay News 9, Todd turned to a profession he had known since he was a child, advertising signs.

His mom once worked at Dave McCarthy Realty, now another of the Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate companies. While in his teens and going to PC High, Todd began a little sideline business putting up and taking down real estate signs around eastern Hillsborough County. Today, just about every real estate company east of Brandon, and some there as well, use TM signs.

That is only a fraction of Todd McClernan’s business. By investing many thousands of dollars in special printing equipment, TM signs has high profile clients such as FED/EX, producing signs for inside and outside of offices and of varying sizes. Thanks to a couple of computer whizzes in his shop, Todd McClernan’s staff can produce some very innovative signs.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 86

covered in a vinyl material promoting the owner’s business. A special one-way material is used over the side and rear windows, making the vehicle a complete rolling billboard. Many HART Line buses have the wrap-around look and now small business people are finding the technique to be affordable. Realtors, restaurateurs and just about any business, for that matter, can use the products.

And, thanks to their newly acquired Image Depot, franchise logos can be printed, sewn, or painted on just about anything, from screenprinting tee shirts to embroidering polo’s. TM Signs has produced names, images and gimmicks for many clients.

Located just east of the county courthouse on Reynolds Street, you’ll be well served by the TM Signs – Image Depot Team, which will sometimes include some down-on-their-luck and even homeless people whom Todd will hire for a day or two to carry out odd jobs around the shop. This is just an example of the type of community spirited individuals who make up Plant City business.

So to borrow a line from one of TM Sign’s business ventures, “That’s a Wrap”!

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 87

SPORTS

Congratulations to the Plant City Blazers 7-8 Machine Pitch All-Stars The Plant City Blazers went over to a tournament in Dundee, Florida beginning on Thursday June 24th when they played the Lakeland Bandits beating them 9-0. On Friday they went on to lose a game 2-6 against Eagle Lake. On Saturday they rebounded and won two games against the Wahneeta All-Stars 8-3 and then the Auburndale Assasins 16-4. On Sunday the Blazers were up against another Plant City team the Bulldogs. The Blazers were able to put them away with an 11-8 win. On Sunday afternoon in the Championship game the Blazers had to play The Haines City Sharks. After a 5 hour, rain soaked game, the Blazers triumphed with a HUGE 9-4 win.

All of our boys played with heart and emotion all weekend.

They never quit. They played some of the best baseball that

I have seen at this age level. We as parents and coaches are very proud of our boys!!!!!

The Mets of the Junior Baseball Division At Plant City Little League, the Mets of the junior baseball division ended their season on a 12 game winning streak and won three championship titles. The regular season National League champs finished the year with a 21 – 7 record after a 6 – 6 beginning.

The Mets got hot halfway through the year and while going 15 and 1, won PCLL’s City Championship, defeating the American League champs, the Rangers, 6 – 1 in the final.

The Mets then won the Tournament of Champions, comprised of 11 District 4 regular season champions. The Mets, sponsored by Imperial Auto Auction, won all five games in the tournament, defeating North Lakeland in the final, 12 – 3.

The Mets, coached by Scott Davidson, Mark Kimbel and Terry Terrell, were a complete team where all twelve members played a major role. The leagues’s most outstanding catcher was the Mets’ Jake Kimbel. Preston Sparkman, Chase Thompson, Josh Kimbel and Bud Wells led the Mets’ outstanding pitching staff. Kenny Mitchell, Bubba Connell and Corey Homberg led their hitting attack. The team played awesome defense all season led by Sammy and Sergio Ibarra, Andrew Fox and Justin Torbert. The Mets’ players and coaches wish to express their appreciation for the support of their parents, especially Team Mom, Freddie Ray

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SPORTS

Six Classes And One Hundred Plus Cars Make A Hot Night At East Bay

by Bill Green “From Behind The MIC!” Tampa, FL (June 15, 2004) As the Florida humidity reminded everyone that summer was on it’s way, East Bay Racers showed just how hot it was getting.

Over 120 cars crowded the pits for tonight’s action and that included 15 of the wild and crazy fan participation cars.

Limited Late Models would be up first on tonight’s lineup. With the heat win going to Tommy Kelly’s Marine Surplus #75, we were set for a great feature event. Kelly would lead them to the feature green and survived 5 restarts from the top spot to take the win. Tommy Kelly promptly dedicated the race to his Dad for Father’s Day and wished all the father’s in the stands a big thank you for bringing their kids to racing. Second would go to David Simpson, with J.R. Prather, Jr. third, Jason Bronson fourth and Shane Koperda fifth.

Street Stocks would see Kyle Bronson and Danny Paris in Victory Lane early in the heats. Kyle Bronson lead them to the green and through the first 6 laps, until lap traffic moved to the bottom groove where Bronson already was going for the pass. Bronson left the radiator and the win in turn one, leaving Danny Paris to take another and extend his points lead. Second went to Tony Traina, third was Tim Spencer, fourth and fifth went to the Smith’s, but there is no relation as Hollie Smith finished fourth, leaving Bob Smith fifth.

Late Model heat wins went to Keith Nosbisch and Bobby Alexander, Sr. They were setting the stage for what was to be a fantastic feature event. Bill Howard

got to Victory Lane, but Roger Crouse was putting on a show as he rode the cushion on the outside at full throttle reeling in Howard for a great battle.

Unfortunately for Roger, the “Mayor of Muddville” would roll off on the hook after a self-induced spin in turn-2 that collected the #33 of Jeff Mathews. The restart left Howard to take the win, “The Master” Donnie Tanner went second, Keith Nosbisch hung on to third, forth was a great run by Phillip Cobb and K.D. Kelly got his first top-5 since his heart surgery and return.

Limited Sprints saw Tim Holston win heat-1 and James Surrency heat-2. But, Holston would have to battle from 11th starting spot to another bridesmaid finish in second, while the “Mopar Missle” Frank Beck, III took the win. Third would go to Clyde Poole after leading early, fourth saw Tyler Godwin move up from 14th and “Big” Tim George came back to fifth after an early spin to miss someone else’s mistake.

Open Wheel Modifieds contested two heats, with Jeff Mathews and Rusty Dixon taking the checkered flags. After a red flag so the AMR Track Rescue Team could reach a pit injury, Bruce Watkins showed the field that coming from 18th to a win, was not impossible in the class. Watkins battled past “Prime Time” Bobby Dixon for the win, Dixon hung on to second. David Borner came from last to third after visiting the pits with a flat early. Fourth went to Ike Walker and Rusty Dixon salvaged the fifth place finish.

Mini Stock drivers Wallace Peacock and Chad Rose celebrated heat wins to start the night. Chad Rose came from 6th to leading quickly in the feature, but Scotty Williams came from 10th to second just as fast. The two would battle it out over the final 7-laps, with Scotty Williams visiting Victory Lane when the final flag flew.

Rose settled for second, Ryan Mitchell took third, Josh Peacock ran forth and Daniel Bowman, Jr. rounded out the top-5 in fifth.

We’ll See You At the RACES!

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 89

®

Discover How to Raise Well-Balanced Children in an Off-Balance World!

Single Parenting that Works!

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE, INC.1513 J.L REDMAN PKWY. PLANT CITY, FL. 33563 1-877-442-7001 • 813-754-3586 EXT: 218

Welcomes

LORRAINE BENNET REALTOR®

Plant City Auto

3/29/04

Lorraine lives in Pinedale with her husband, Bob, and three children: Ryan, Adam and Michael. They are active members of Midway Baptist Church. Lorraine’s business background is in accounting; she has worked for the past several years as a tax accountant for a local CPA firm. Lorraine is an avid Tampa Bay Bucs fan. She is very excited about helping people with all phases Real Estate 9:09 PMof their Page 1 needs - so give her a call!

Author of “The New Birth Order Book” and “Making Children Mind Without Losing Yours”

Six Inspiring & Practical Lessons!

1. Putting First Things First

How to bring stability to children by getting your own life in order

2. Healing the Past, Looking to the Future

How Forgiveness Opens the Door to Healthy Relationships

• Computer Diagnostic • A/C & Heater Repair • Mufflers & Brakes • Custom Exhaust • Electric Windows & Door Locks • Shocks & Struts • Front End Repair • Free Estimates

3. Creating Harmony with Your Ex-Spouse

How to relat to Your “Ex” with an Olive Branch instead of a hammer.

4. Helping Children Thrive in a Single Parent Home

How to Develop Positive Self-Esteem when Kids Need It Most.

5. Learning to Discipline with Love & Limits

How “Reality Discipline” Teaches kids to be Respectful, Responsible & Resourceful

6. Understand Your Child’s Personality - God’s Indelible Imprint

How birth order affects children and the way parents should relate to them.

DATE: __________________________ PLACE: __________________________ TIME: __________________________ FACILITATOR: __________________________

503 N. Palmer St., Plant City, FL 33563 • 813-752-4104, Fax: 813-752-1980 • kbrevik@fbcpc.com

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 90

Central Florida Bluegrass Association presents “Bluegrass at the Depot” at McCall Park in beautiful downtown Plant City, Saturday, July 24th2004 from 4-8pm, featuring several central florida bluegrass bands and artists, clogging, food, etc. great family fun, please join us! Look for the C.F.B.A. tent to get information on our association or member services.

For More Information Call

813-763-0483

www.cfbluegrass.com

Dialing In To A Healthy Life Meet Joey Perea, Personal Trainer and Author of the soon to be released book, "Dialing In." Joey has been a successful and competitive body builder winning titles since he was 16. Now he has developed a program that is transforming lives. “Dialing In” is not only the program he individualizes for his clients, but the title of his soon to be released book. “Dialing In” was developed because Joey was working with a lot of sick people, many suffering from Diabetes, Crohns, and Obesity. The program works biochemically for each person’s blood type. It uses exact amounts of protein, carbohydrates, and fats to produce the best physique possible. Joey also works with people who just want to look better and feel better. One of those people is 23 yr. old Bill Saunders, a Fire Fighter at Station #1 in Plant City. He was the first Plant City resident to try Joey’s program. When Bill began the “Dialing In” Program on Jan. 8th his goal was to be in the Hillsborough Firefighters Calendar, but he has exceeded all of his expectations. Bill’s wife, Tara, is also following the program and has done phenomenal. They both agreed that the diet was the hardest part. It was a big sacrifice at first having to give up so much. Bill began to think about competing when he noticed his physique changing and people at the gym complimenting and encouraging him. On June 12th he competed in the Tampa Bay Classic Bodybuilding Competition winning 3rd place. What an accomplishment after just 6 months! Bill says, "The “Dialing In” program is not for the faint of heart, but the commitment you make to yourself to do it is an investment in you and the results will speak for themselves." Every month check for our “Dialing In” success story.

For those interested in Joey’s program you can contact him at 813-317-0106

JELLY BELLY ART CONTEST

FACE PAINTING PRIZES & CLOWNS

GRAND OPENING SATURDAY, AUG. 7TH Bring The Kids!

Stop By and Enjoy a FREE Sample of Mouth Watering Fudge

205 N. Collins St. • Plant City Historic District Plant City, Fl 33563 Phone: (813) 719-2120 Fax: (813) 719-2130 To find the location nearest you and see a sampling of our products, visit our wedsite at www.candybouquet.com

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 91

What Kinds Of Groups Tour with All Florida Adventure Tours? ss,,tteeaacchheerrss,,M Miinniisst Woorrkkeerr teerrss, ry W o t ,SSiinn c a F , ggiinn s st ggCC i t r o ,A

OOrrggaanniizzaattiioonnss,,CCiivviiccOOrrga uurrcchh niza s, ,CChh t i o ttiiees ns , Ph cciiee lSSoo

ssttaafefeww. . GGaarrddeennCClulubbss, ,H meejuju Hoorr m a a n ttiiccu “Blessed Are the sttoon ullttu curious... urraa ooyys b b w l ow

Student Groups, Far m e r s, Ho lubs, us hy C e w rap ive tog s ho

...for they shall have adventures”

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All Florida Adventure Tours Phone: 813-719-7746 • Fax: 813-754-6773 • P.O.Box 775, Dover, Fl. 33527 EMAIL: allf la@ear thlink.net WEB: all-f lorida- ecotours.com

HEATH & FITNESS

SWITZERLAND Most of you know that the love of my life is from Switzerland. He traveled a long way to find me so I think I will keep him! One of the perks of having a husband from Switzerland is we get to travel there a lot.

As a matter of fact we are getting ready to cross the big lake and go again. My first trip over was in 1992. One of the greatest surprises to me was how skinny the Swiss were. I mean EVERYBODY! Coming from America where everyone practically is on a diet, in Switzerland practically nobody is on a diet. Back in America I was caught up in the low-fat craze. I counted every gram. Over in Switzerland there was not a low-fat product anywhere. They cook with butter. All the cheese and milk and yogurt were full fat. You couldn’t find low-fat food. In the span of a 14 hour plane ride, I got thrown right into what I thought was my diet’s worst nightmare. I had to re-think things a little.

That or starve! I had no choice but to eat full fat. What an incredible education Switzerland came to be. You haven’t had good cheese and yogurt until you’ve had the Swiss. (Sorry France.) Creamy, melt in your mouth goodness, layered on their whole grain, nutty, course fibrous bread. Their salad dressings made with real cream.

Real cream in the coffee and fish fried in butter. I did mention that they were all skinny!!! Did I mention yet that Switzerland had one of the world’s lowest incidences of heart disease? They never watched cholesterol. Thought American’s were cholesterol crazy.

Here was something else I observed. They had tiny grocery stores.

They did not have rows and rows of shelves lined with boxes of stuff and cans of stuff. They have little stores filled with fresh fruits, nuts, vegetables, cheese and more cheese and more cheese. They have cuts of meat and fish and chicken all fresh. They drop in the little shops almost daily and eat what is in season and fresh. You know the stuff God gave us. What they did not eat was fast food or manufactured food. They didn’t have it. They don’t have processed flour or foods that need to be enriched. I also noticed they did not eat as much, almost, but not quite. The calories were a lot higher, the volume lower. When you give the body nutrients it tells you to quit eating much faster than when the nutrients are absent. I also noticed that people walked around with big bottles of water. They did not walk around with 64 ounces of soda.

Since 1992 I have also observed some disturbing trends. McDonalds moved in as well as Kentucky Fried Chicken. Now you can find low-fat foods in grocery stores. Swiss children are getting plumper and Swiss people are on diets. The last visit over in 2002, ten years later and the Swiss diet was becoming more Americanized. They bought into the low-fat craze and started using vegetable oils and margarine. The Swiss have notoriously been one of the healthiest countries in the world. I will report back when I get back from our trip. I remember the last time 2 years ago Swiss mothers and Swiss health advocates were fighting to keep the big food manufacturers out of the kitchens. I will let you know. I for one hope so. I think the biggest threat to our world is artificial junk that is getting passed off as food. I think what the food giants have done in this country is horrific. What makes me angry is they know it. I pray for the people of Switzerland. I pray that their better wisdom will prevail over the marketing dollars of the worst America has to offer, the money hungry food giants. I will let you know.

Sherry Nueesch Curves for Women 813-719-1822

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 92

W W W . S O U T H F L O R I D A B A P T I S T. C O M

FirstCare for Minor Emergencies Has Moved!

The name you’ve always trusted for life’s little emergencies is now conveniently located at South Florida Baptist Hospital’s ER. So should a bump, bruise, rash or sniffle prove to be a little bigger than you first thought, you’ll be right down the hall from our ER and hospital teams. Plus, we can offer expanded diagnostics such as laboratory and imaging services, while still giving the doctors and nurses a special place where they can focus on your needs without the distraction of more serious emergencies. And we think that’s a move in the right direction. Equally important, FirstCare is covered by most insurance plans. Don’t you feel better already?

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 93

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EXTRA

Yup! It happened again. Somebody found me in the plant section of my local Home Depot, somewhere between Triazicide and Mole Cricket bait, to tell me how much he hates all the national news. The bad thing about being in TV is that most people think as the anchor you know everything or have control over everything. And of course, you are their absolute best friend and they never miss one of your shows ever.

They also think I have some kind of divine connection with everyone who is famous. I can’t tell you how many times people will say to me, “Now you tell the President that blah de blah de blah…” as if George and I chat every morning over an early morning coffee. Once a sweet little lady wanted me to tell Peter Jennings that it’s okay that he’s starting to go bald on top. Just don’t let him start combing it over. Please, not that!

And last week some guy gave me a hand written note he wants me to deliver to John Kerry when I talk to him this week. I can see it now, “Mr. Kerry, this nut case gave me this personal note for you that he thinks will help you beat George Bush. I very carefully shook off all the white powder that was sticking to this note when the guy handed it to me. I’m sure its just powdered sugar. I mean the note is written on a “Dunkin” Donut napkin, for Pete’s sake.”

So back to the pesticide aisle at Home Depot! This guy goes on to tell me that he has been diagnosed as clinically depressed. He says he used to spend 10 to 15 hours a day watching TV, almost every waking hour. His doctor was the one who suggested he lay off the tube for a while and concentrate on his real world. Things like brushing your teeth, getting your groceries, cleaning your house, and having a few meaningful relationships outside the home. So that’s what he does. He swears it completely changed his life. He doesn’t care what Bush or Kerry does! He doesn’t get wrapped up in Crossfire, or in American Idol, or listen to Chris Matthews, Larry King or Bill O’Riley. Survivor made him nervous. He always had the answers before Alex Tribeck. He tried eating pig intestines once like he saw on

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 94

Fear Factor but threw up all over the place. He does turn on the local news, me at 10 PM, but only for five minutes. He watched a Victoria’s Secret special once and his mother threatened to kick him out of the house. Yes, he’s still living with his mother and didn’t mind telling me so. Are you getting the picture!

Then he goes on to tell me that watching so much TV gave him a false sense of reality that he was living through the events he saw broadcast. He said he didn’t have any strong convictions about anything because there would always be somebody on TV changing his mind.

He wanted to know from me if that was okay! He wanted to know if any other people had the same problem. About now I’m looking for one of those guys with a nametag on a friendly orange apron.

It’s not that I’m a sucker. I truly enjoy talking with the folks who watch me on the news night after night. True, many of my more memorable encounters have been with people who are just a bit different. Yet, I believe in every encounter there is a bit of truth hiding, if you look for it closely enough.

Too much TV is a bad thing. All those channels! What are we up to, about a thousand now? Unfortunately, in our society TV has become babysitter, counselor, best friend, and an endless stream of noise that some mistake for living. It cannot replace human interaction. It grieves me to see some nursing homes with rows and rows of wheelchairs aligned in front of the tube. Sure, it passes the time away and programming can be genuinely interesting. Seniors like to feel they are connected to the daily news events. The problem with most news, by definition, is that it generally involves a very small number of people who are experiencing very dynamic events in their lives, usually unpleasant. Every plane crash, every fire, every tragedy is replayed over and over again. This isn’t reality. The truth is that millions and millions of people fly each day in planes that do nothing but land and take off successfully over and over again. The percentage of homes that catch fire on any given day in America is less than .000000001 percent of all the homes in the country… or smaller. As David Brinkley used to put it, “The truth is 99.9 percent of the time absolutely nothing news worthy is happening. We just tell you about the other .1 percent each night.”

But if you are ever feeling overwhelmed, or bored, or depressed, or disconnected, or feeling like telling your favorite TV anchor your life story in the middle of the pesticide row, trying turning off the tube for awhile. You just may find it’s the most liberating thing you’ve done in years.

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813-719-6887 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 95

EXTRA

Florida is the best place in the country to live, work, retire, and raise a family. To maintain the high quality of life in our state, we must provide a health care system the great people of Florida deserve.

One of the top priorities of the Legislature this session was to meet the medical needs of our most vulnerable citizens, while increasing the availability of health care to all Floridians. We were able to successfully provide the necessary resources to our health care system, while making structural changes to better deliver services to those in need.

This year’s state budget will spend $22 billion on social services programs, including $14.5 billion for Medicaid. The budget also fully funds the Medically Needy program, which serves catastrophically ill people who don’t have insurance, and provides prenatal care for 7,000 women.

The budget also allocates $23.6 million to help provide safe and stable homes for children, provided $5 million for domestic violence centers, and restored the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families programs at $76.5 million. Additionally, the budget provides $9.4 million for developmentally disabled individuals in crisis and on the waiting list.

Through increased funding and stronger eligibility enforcement, we will be able to provide health insurance to more needy Florida children in the KidCare program. The Legislature provides $25 million to eliminate up to 70,000 children from the KidCare waiting list and made structural improvements to provide insurance to more eligible children.

While providing historic funding for state health care programs, we also made structural changes to improve health care in Florida. These common sense reforms included creating the Florida Health Insurance Plan as the high-risk pool for uninsurable medical risks, expanding the HealthFlex program statewide, and creating the Florida Patient Safety Corporation to help providers improve the quality and safety of their services and reduce harm to patients.

The Florida House worked diligently this session to provide a worldclass health care system for our citizens. Whether through increased funding, patient protections, or systemic changes, we have made significant strides to improve health care for all Floridians.

You’re in good hands.

Subject to availability and qualifications.

Allstate Property and Casualty Company, Northbrook, Illinois. © 2000 Allstate Insurance Company

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 96

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(A Non-Profit Organization)

Aunt Donna’s Butterfly Garden, Inc.

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1. For a tax deductible gift of $35 to Aunt Donna’s Butterfly Garden, Aunt Donna will bring her Butterfly Exhibit, God’s little flying flowers, to your child or adult party and read her soon to be published children’s book “Miracles in Aunt Donna’s Butterfly Garden”.

All donations go to establish and maintain a butterfly/wildlife habitat and an environment home. The purpose is to study and preserve the butterfly and to encourage others to develop more energy-efficient homes.

Also, available butterfly release for any important occasions such as...

2. For an additional $25, Aunt Donna will tag and release a monarch butterfly in the child’s/adult’s name so that its migration to Mexico can be tracked.

(In Season)

3. Aunt Donna will bring a pack of milkweed seeds for each person to start his/her own butterfly garden. $1.00 per person.

Call Aunt Donna 813-659-1194

Anniversaries Births Dedications Funerals Graduations Weddings

Aunt Donna’s Butterfly Garden, Inc. 14050 Blackjack Rd., Dover, FL. 33527 Prices above apply to a 20-mile radius. Due to gas prices, for greater distances, a donation of $1 per mile beyond 20 miles is required.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 97

EXTRA

HOME COMPUTING TIPS:

Hello everyone, I am writing to you all this month about Data.

When you have a p.c., isn’t keeping that precious data safe and secure what it’s all about. I had a cousin tell me that she was afraid to buy a new p.c. because she was afraid she would lose the years of data she had accumulated. As you all should know by now, I told her no problem. We built her a new machine and transferred all of her data to her new machine. Now she had all of her data and her new machine which was light years faster than the old p.c. she had. After talking with her, it was clear to me that many people have the same fear. They fear losing that precious data in the event they should purchase a new machine, so they painstakingly deal with the problems they have with their old p.c. I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to do that. The problem you have when you do that is that eventually you will lose your data, because one day, that machine that you love so much will never boot again. Just ask someone who that has happened to and they will waive all of your fears of buying a new p.c. and having your data transferred. The right p.c. technician can transfer all of your data in a flash to your new p.c. and the pain you have been experiencing with that old p.c. that locks up, takes so long too load, or errors constantly will be over. Don’t fret with a p.c. that is causing you problems for fear of losing your data, that is what people like me are here for, to keep your data safe and secure. So the next time the thought of buying that new machine crosses your mind, go ahead and do it, you’ll be glad that you did, Jo-Ann was.

Until Next time, Happy Computing Jim Brown Product Consultants Unlimited, Inc. 601 N. Michigan Ave. Plant City, Fl 33566 813-717-7717 www.pcustore.com www.plantcity.com www.whatsuptampabay.com

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 98

EXTRA

This time last year, my wife and I were expecting our first child, Elizabeth.

To make traveling with our bundle of joy a little less of a challenge, we decided to purchase an SUV, a Chevy Trailblazer. The Trailblazer has been good, but now my wife has decided she’d like something larger with a third row seat! We’re not in any hurry, but we’re looking, so I thought this would be a great time to review something with a third row seat, the 2004 Ford Expedition.

I spoke with the New Vehicle Sales Manager at Jarrett Ford, Robert Creemers. Mr. Creemers was a pleasure to work with and I really got the feeling he truly believes in Ford products. He quickly prepared the vehicle for me, a 2004 Eddie Bauer Expedition. The Eddie Bauer Expedition includes standard features such as; running boards, reverse sensing system, dualzone a/c, rear a/c and heat, 6-disc in dash CD changer, auto-dimming rear view mirror, and even memory for the driver’s seat, side view mirrors and accelerator and brake pedals.

Rob said the Expedition was completey overhauled in 2003. “This Expedition was designed for this generation and the next.” I’ve NEVER been a fan of the dashboards in American made vehicles, but this also received a major cosmetic makeover. This is the first change I noticed in the interior.

The new dash has clean lines, two tone coloring, and eye catching round a/c vents.

There are two seating options we really like in the Expedition, the center slide second row seat and the power third row seat. The second row of seating is a 40/20/40 split-bench seat. Each section can be folded completely flat. But the most interesting feature is the center slide seat. It can slide forward toward the driver’s center console. This could come in very handy to a driver that needs to reach back from the driver’s seat to a child in the second row center seat.

Then there’s the third row seating. The big selling point here are two buttons conveniently located to the right side of the interior cargo space that allow you to fold the third row seat entirely flat. Forget about struggling with a lever or handle and manually folding the seat up and down, the seat motor does everything for you. The third row is a 40/60 spilt so you can even fold only one side or both, depending on your needs. When both the second row and third row are folded down, there is more than 110 cu. Ft. of cargo space. Trust me; it’s a lot of room.

On the test drive I quickly realized how easy the Expedition was to maneuver. Later, I learned that the turning radius is actually smaller than the Ford Explorer, which makes the Expedition really easy to get in and out of parking spaces. I drove around town for some stop and go traffic and went out on the interstate to get a feel for the ride and handling. The Expedition is very tight for such a large vehicle. You really do feel safe in this vehicle.

The double-wishbone, fully independent rear suspension diminishes the swaying experienced in some SUV’s, and the interior is quiet.

Overall, the Expedition is a large SUV with plenty of cargo room, seating for 8, and true convenience for the driver. We’re honestly giving the Ford Expedition strong consideration. If you’re interested in the 2004 Ford Expedition, or any other Ford product, visit Jarrett Ford and give them a chance to earn your business.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 99

EXTRA

Resting atop the white bluffs of 21 secluded acres bordering the Intracoastal Waterway in Clearwater, nestled in the small, exclusive gated community of Belleair lays the stately Belleview Biltmore Resort. Originally built by railroad magnate and West Central Florida pioneer Henry B. Plant, the majestic Belleview Biltmore opened in 1897. When Plant was nine, only three miles of railroad track existed in the entire nation. At the time of his death in 1899, the transportation magnate controlled 2,139 miles of railroad track and owned seven coastal steamship lines. His son, Morton F. Plant, assumed leadership of the brand new hotel. But before he died, Henry Plant commissioned Stella Spurlin of Camden, Al to compose “The Belleview Waltz”, dedicated to Mrs. Plant, making the resort one of the very few hotels to have a waltz composed in its honor.

The glamorous resort quickly gained success as a favored retreat for celebrities, industrial barons and international dignitaries. With a fascinating history laced with social prominence and a remarkable revitalization, the resort holds a treasured position on the National Register of Historic Places and in the hearts of many past guests, including royalty, movie stars, heads of state, and most recently, yours truly. The expansive crisp white building with its signature green roof is reputed to be the world’s largest occupied wooden structure. I was awed by the sheer size of the hotel, not to mention the velvet lawns and tree-lined walkways, but when I got inside and experienced the Victorian charm of the place, with its history proudly displayed as you walk down the long corridor, beautifully lit by chandeliers, I felt as if I were stepping back in time.

I passed by the Eclips Spa & Salon, which offers 21st century luxury in an 18th century setting. Inside the 15,000 square foot facility one can relax and rejuvenate with a variety of services ranging from active marine facials, seaweed wraps, body polishing, aroma hydrotherapy baths and hot stone therapy massages. Salon services such as manicures, pedicures and hair care are also available.

There are also more than 40,000 square feet of meeting rooms, banquet facilities, covered patios, private cottages and expansive lawns to accommodate groups from 10 to more than 1,000. I peeked inside a couple of them and was met with old-world charm and lavish beauty. The Belleview Biltmore Beach Club recently re-opened on beautiful Sand Key, after an extensive renovation and addition of an upstairs banquet and meeting facility and a new restaurant – The Cabana Grill and Bar. Designed by world-famous architect Donald Ross, the Belleview Biltmore Golf Club has been an American favorite since 1925. Recently restored, the 18-hole championship 71-par course has a reputation for its challenging design, which deftly incorporates the natural surrounding environment. The Golf Club also offers rental clubs and shoes and a complete practice facility including driving range with putting and chipping greens, fully stocked golf shop and a relaxing Clubhouse grill.

There are 246 Victorian-style guest rooms, including 43 balcony suites, 15 sun parlor suites and one Presidential Suite. My suite overlooked the 200,000 gallon pool – one of the largest in west central Florida. The pool area features a cascading waterfall, elevated whirlpool and tanning island. There are so many amenities and activities; I don’t have room to mention them all, but I would like to add that there is a historical tour every day at 11 a.m. Next time I’m going to take it.

Established in 1897 as the Queen of the Gulf, Belleview Biltmore bestows Southern hospitality and unparalleled elegance on all those who come in contact with her. For reservations, please call 800-237-8947, or 727-373-3000. For more information on the “Grand Dame”, visit their website at www.belleviewbiltmore.com.

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 100

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 101

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1705 C Jim Redman Pky • Plant City FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 102

SET GOOD CHIROPRACTIC HABITS Almost everyone has some bad habits. One person may eat too many snacks while another person always arrives late. Most people also have some good habits, e.g., visiting the dentist every year. Another good habit is regularly getting a thorough check-up from a doctor of chiropractic.

Starting at birth, subluxations (misalignments of the vertebrae) or minor disruptions of the normal structure of the spinal cord can occur throughout a lifetime. They are more pronounced in people with bad posture, a problem that is increasing as so many people sit improperly at their computers. Now many national organizations sponsor various correct posture events to remind people that “good health begins with good posture.” Poor bearings can trigger a negative chain reaction throughout the body.

The stress it can put on joints, especially when muscles are weak, can cause permanent damage.

Eliminate any spinal subluxations you may have so that your nervous system does not falter. Get treated by your doctor of chiropractic until you are in the best of health.

Then make appointments on a regular basis to help stay dis-eased free. This is a good habit to develop.

SERVING PLANT CITY FOR OVER 19 YEARS STILL ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

FOCUS

REVIEWS

I was nominated again to do the dining review, and boy, am I glad! I have visited the Catfish Country that used to be in Brandon, but the one in Plant City rocks! The owner, Harry Liristis, had been in the restaurant business all of his life, and then became a commercial pilot.

After September 11, he lost his job, and decided to go back to what he knew best, and he bought Catfish Country on November 1, 2003. He decided to make some changes there, and began offering a breakfast buffet for only $4.25, opening at 8 a.m. He also is offering “all you can eat” specials; Monday is kids 12 and under free, Tuesday is crawfish night, Wednesday is Alaskan Snow Crab legs, Thursday is shrimp.

We went on a Wednesday, which is all you can eat Alaskan Snow Crab legs night, and, of course, my mother had to sample them, she’s a crab leg nut. Before she did, though, they brought out their signature warm biscuits, which we slathered up with the delicious honey spread we used to go to one in Brandon for. Along with that came their scrumptious coleslaw. We decided to try things we hadn’t had before, and opted for the Stuffed Shrimp Jammers as an appetizer. They’re large shrimp stuffed with Monterey Jack cheese, rolled in this yummy batter, and deep fried, served with Ranch dressing for dipping They were delicious, but we had to pace ourselves because we had ordered a Captain’s platter, which consisted of broiled fish, shrimp, scallops, and stuffed crab in the shell. My mom had a baked potato, and I had mashed potatoes with gravy.

They have pasta, pork chops, steak, chicken, hamburgers and ribs for those of you not partial to seafood. They have just about anything you could want. If you’re looking for a casual, family atmosphere, reasonably priced, great food and warm, friendly people kind of place to eat breakfast, lunch or dinner, it doesn’t get any better than at Harry Liristis’ Catfish Country! Please tell them FOCUS sent you! As Arnold would say, “We’ll be back”.

It all arrived, steamy hot, and we thought we’d died and gone to heaven! It was delicious, served with one of the best hush puppies I’ve ever had. The only thing we worried about was saving room for dessert; all the while my mom is cracking and dipping her crab legs in butter while she’s putting a hurtin’ on her main course. You couldn’t have gotten a finer dinner anywhere! We really enjoyed it.

We decided to split some cheese cake for dessert, since neither one of us could hold much more. It arrived with whipped cream and dribbled with chocolate, complete with two forks. Oh my gosh, that just topped off a perfect dinner experience. How lucky could you get?

His servers were all so friendly, I happened to comment on it, watching people being greeted at the door. He said they hold weekly meetings and discuss just that, among other things. It made my mother and I feel very warm and fuzzy, at any rate.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 103

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 104

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 105

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

HAYSEED DIXIE

Hayseed Dixie at the Ramada

Classic Hard Rock meets Dixie Bluegrass Story & Photos by Lynne Warren

traditional hillbilly / bluegrass sound. A few of their own creations are thrown into the mix, making for a really unpredictable show. I was sure the performance of You Shook Me All Night Long (originally by AC/DC) was going to be the best of the night, but I soon found I was mistaken. After hearing I’m Keeping Your Poop (in a jar) and Big Bottom (Barley Scotch’s opinion on how women ought to be shaped), I knew we’d hit the true highlight of the evening.

Aside from being refreshingly unconventional and just plain fun, this group of Appalachian musicians is tremendously talented. The lead singer, Barley Scotch, who plays fiddle and guitar, is a great entertainer, and all four band members showed serious musical talent.

The group included songs in their set that specifically highlighted each of the musical instruments in the band – and every one was terrific.

I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect when I strolled into the Red Rose Ballroom at the Ramada Inn Plantation House on the night of June 24. Over the last year or two the Ramada Inn has hosted musical stars and groups like Sammy Kershaw, Emerson Drive, Ricochet, and many others. This night, however was the night that Hayseed Dixie came to town.

As I was seated, and waited for the performance I had to wonder exactly what was in store. I had done a little research on the group and found their first album was a collection of old AC/DC songs performed in bluegrass format, and with that my curiosity was piqued. The first performance of the night was a local bluegrass group by the name of Bleu Moon. They played a set of traditional bluegrass songs, and were really good. In fact, when the set was finished, the audience asked for an encore.

Following Bleu Moon was an impromptu performance by two young local men: Shane Turner on the fiddle and Cliff Brown on guitar and handling the vocals. Since the performance was unplanned they didn’t have a specific set of music selected in advance. Instead, they played whatever came to mind, so it was like being included in a really cool jam session. It was a lot of fun, and the guys did a great job.

When Hayseed Dixie came out, they put on a really great show. The band’s sound is a unique mix of classic hard rock meets Dixie bluegrass, and Hayseed Dixie gives new meaning to the term Rockabilly!

Band member attire ranged from tie-dye and cut-off overalls to argyle socks and camouflage, and the music was nearly as colorful as their clothing. This performance was a little bit irreverent, and a whole lot of fun! Most of the songs the group performs are rock and roll classics from the likes of AC/DC, KISS and Ted Nugent – but done in the

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 106

Hayseed Dixie has released three albums: the first, A Hillbilly Tribute To AC/DC was released in 2001, followed in 2002 by album number two, A Hillbilly Tribute to Mountain Love. The third and most recent album is titled Kiss My Grass – A Hillbilly Tribute to KISS, released in 2003. Their work has been included on The Simple Life 2 soundtrack in the form of the old J. Giles Band tune, Centerfold.

The band has an alter-ego that performs under the name of the Kerosene Brothers. It is the same band, but under that name they reverse the Hayseed Dixie concept by performing classic hillbilly and bluegrass music in a rock format. If you have the chance to see Hayseed Dixie (or the Kerosene Brothers) you should take the opportunity. You won’t find a more colorful or fun show, but be ready to hold onto your seats.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 107

Historic

SHOPPING • FOOD • BUSI

CAR SHOW 3rd Saturday Of Every Month

Enjoy Food, Great Atmosphere & Tons of Old Cars Historic Downtown Plant City

ANTIQUE DISTRICT

BIKE FEST

1st Saturday Of Every Month “Voted #1 BIKE FEST in Florida” Bike Nights Magazine

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Olde Village Shoppes

Mini Mall 108 S. Collins St.

752-3222

Tues-Sat 10am-5pm (Over 10,000 Sq Ft)

Frenchmanʼs Flea Market 108 S. Collins St.

754-8388

Tues-Sat 10am-5pm (Over 10,000 Sq Ft) Both locations open till 9pm the third Saturday of each month for the

Strawberry Classic Car Show

NEXT TO NEW We Buy, Sell & Consign Nearly New Ladies Fashions Knick Knacks & Collectables Small Furniture & Misc.

109 W. REYNOLDS PLANT CITY, FL 33563

Kim A. Allen (813) 719-8922

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 108

I

Soups Salads Sandwiches Variety of Fresh Baked Breads Catering Available

INESS A Place Where Quality Counts Aren’t You Worth It?

Dine In & Take Out

813-719-6344 119 N. Collins Street • Plant City, FL 33583 OPEN: Mon-Fri. 8:30am-3pm

111 W. Reynolds St. Plant City, Fl. 33563 • 813-754-5505

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O FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 109

Stepford Wives - PG13

go back to his country or step foot on American soil. He was forced to live in the airport til he could be approved to return home. While residing in the airport he falls in love with a beautiful flight attendant, gains employment, learns English, plays Cupid, and develops relationships with those around him, not necessarily in that order.

This was my favorite movie this month. Rating 4

Starring: Nicole Kidman, Bette Midler, Roger Bart, Matthew Broderick, Glenn Close, Faith Hill, Mike White, Jon Lovitz Big time female executive Joanna (Kidman) has a breakdown after she is fired. To help her recover, her husband (Broderick) moves his family to the highly recommended suburbs of Stepford. The community is freakishly perfect but with token unruly members. When the town’s secret is uncovered, a valuable lesson is learned. Imperfection is not such a bad thing. This 1975 remake is humorous and fun. I especially loved Bette Midler’s mischievous character. Rating 3

White Chicks - PG13 Starring: Shawn Wayans, Marlon Wayans, Jaime King, Frankie Faison, Lochlyn Munro, John Heard Two screw-up FBI agents never seem to do anything right, no matter how hard they try. No wonder they end up in a position to do some wild and crazy antics to get back into their bosses good graces. They are going to have put aside pride and gender to pull this job off when they go undercover to protect the Wilton sisters, NYC hotel heiresses. Although many of the antics were crude, I haven’t laughed that hard in a long time. This is one of the funniest movies I’ve seen in awhile. Rating 4

The Terminal - PG13 Starring: Tom Hanks, Catherine ZetaJones, Stanley Tucci, Chi McBride, Barry “Shabaka” Henley What is it like to get stranded between countries in an airport of all places?

Thankfully most of us will never know.

Based on a true story, Tom Hanks portrays a man who gets stuck in an airport because his country had a coup while he was in the air. He was not allowed to

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Fresh Baked Breads Made Fresh Daily.

Catering Available.

Open Your Corporate Account Today.

We take great pride in the food we prepare OPEN: Mon-Fri. 8:30am-3pm, See You At The Car Show & Bike Fest

Dine In & Take Out

111 W. Reynolds St. Plant City, Fl. 33563 • 813-754-5505

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 110

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MOVIE REVIEWS Around The World In 80 Days - PG Starring: Steve Coogan, Jackie Chan, Jim Broadbent, Robert Fyfe, David Ryall, Cecile de France Phileas Fogg (Coogan), a London inventor, is determined to validate his work and save his name before the Royal Academy of Science. He swears he can travel around the world in 80 days or he won’t invent anymore. The council accepts his bet. Passepartout (Chan) is running from the law. Fate steps in and he and Fogg meet a beautiful girl, Monique (France), who is determined to leave with the duo and go find inspiration for her painting.

Continuous adventure will avoid boredom, but Chan is a disappointment. He can do better. It was entertaining, but one that can wait for a weekend rental. Rating 2

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Chronicles of Riddick - PG13 Starring: Vin Diesel, Judi Dench, Karl Urban, Colm Feore, Alexa Davalos, Linus Roache A five year continuation of Pitch Black, Riddick (Vin Diesel) is on the run and caught in the middle of a war between Necromongers and Elementals. Riddick hears rumors that Jack is still alive but in prison. He is determined to make it to her. There are constant action and fight scenes from beginning til end. If you are a fan of Pitch Black you will like this one. Rating 2

July 27 Hellboy The Whole Ten Yards Aug. 3 13 Going on 30 Hidalgo The Princess Diaries

Aug. 10 Johnson Family Vacation Kill Bill: Vol. 2 The Prince and Me Aug. 17 Godsend

Taking Lives Aug. 24 Clifford’s Really Big Movie Ella Enchanted The Girl Next Door Laws of Attraction Shaolin Soccor

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 111

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT ABC Pizza 114 N Alexander St 752-5146

Catfish Country 712 S Collins 752-0126

Alexander's CafÈ at S Fla Baptist Hospital 301 N. Alexander St. 757-8451

Chancy's Catfish Shack 2509 N Park Rd 754-3433

All Star Grill 226 Alexander St W. 719-8187 Parkside Cafe Andrew's on the Park 101 E J Arden Mays Blvd 719-8345 Anna's Restaurant 3410 Baker St W 754-6215 Apple Tree 2218 Jas Redman Pkwy 707-8109 Applebee's Neighborhood Grill and Bar 1204 Townsgate Ct 719-1500 Arby's Roast Beef Restaurant 1909 Frontage Rd S 719-3321 Arby's Roast Beef Restaurant 201 Alexander St W 754-4881 Baker Street CafÈ 1801 W Baker St (Hwy 92 W) 717-9785 Beef O'Brady's Sports Pub 2418 Jas Redman Pkwy 757-0300 Bogey's Restaurant 2001 Clubhouse Dr 752-1171 Boston Market 238 Alexander St W 759-2652 Branch Ranch Dining Room 5121 Thonotosassa Rd 752-1957 Brooklyn Bridge Deli 1309 S Collins St 659-3621 Buddy Freddy's Restaurant 1101 Goldfinch Dr 754-5120 Burger King 2302 Park Rd N 754-5792 Burger King 2002 Jas Redman Pkwy 752-0044

Checker's 2405 Jas Redman Pkwy 759-0151 Cherry's Bar & Grill 1701 S Alexander St W 764-8818 China King Restaurant 2410 Jas Redman Pkwy 754-8098 China One 1862 Jas Redman Pkwy 707-8898 China Palace 1106 Collins St S 754-7145 China Palace 1106 Collins St S 754-7145 Church's Fried Chicken 703 Collins St S 754-5200

Grandpa Johnson's Barbecue 1305 W MLK Jr Blvd 759-0009 Heavenly Sinsations Inc. 1803 Jas Redman Pkwy 717-7512 Hong Kong Buffet 213 Alexander St W 764-8255 Hungry Howie's Pizza & Subs 208 N Alexander St 752-6113 Hungry Howie's - #200 2424 Hwy 92 E 764-0363 Joann's Country Kitchen 12650 McIntosh Rd Thonotosassa 982-0739 Kazbor's Grille 2212 Jas Redman Pkwy 752-2700 Kentucky Fried Chicken 2305 Collins St S 752-0437

Papa John's Pizza 1820 Jas Redman Pkwy 719-7300

Subway 2403 Jas Redman Pkwy 754-4878

Pesos Mexican Restaurant 2006 Reynolds St W 752-8841

Subway 2209 N Park Rd 659-0288

Pizza Hut 2316 Jas Redman Pkwy 752-8222 Pizza Moni 2607 Thonotosassa Rd 759-6664 Plant City Restaurant & Drive-in 2005 W Baker St 752-9202 Ponderosa Steak House 1914 Jim Redman Pkwy 754-1129 Popeye's Famous Fried Chicken & Biscuits 2005 Frontage Rd S 757-9742 Quacker's Cafe 1707 Jim Redman Pkwy 707-9866

CiCi's Pizza 211 Alexander St W 659-3400

La Esperanza Mexican Restaurant 113 Prosser Dr W 659-3940

Ramada Inn Red Rose Dining Room (Fine dining) 2011 N Wheeler St 752-3141

Curbita Inc (Only speaks Spanish) 4109 State Rd 574 754-0620

Linda's Crab Shack 202 Reynolds E 754-0492

Shanghai Chinese Restaurant 805 Collins St S 759-0518

D & D Grid Iron 502 Baker E 752-8262

Lin's Express 2307 Thonotosassa Rd 719-6066

Dairy Queen 1902 W Reynolds 752-2236

Long John Silver's Seafood Shoppe 1805 Jas Redman Pkwy 752-1717

Denny's Restaurant 2001 Frontage Rd S 752-3338

Maryland Fried Chicken 315 N Alexander 752-9200

Domino's Pizza 204 Alexander St W 759-9424

McDonald's 2001 State Rd 39 S 752-2239

El Buen Gusto Michaocan 3414 Baker St W 759-6635

McDonald's 2601 Thonotosassa Rd 754-3945

El Mirasol Bakery Cafeteria 1419 Collins St S 752-2108 El Rincon Mexicano 4109 State Rd 574 754-0620 Fred's Market Restaurant 1401 W Dr MLK Blvd 752-7763 Frontage Sports Bar & Grill Days Inn 301 S Frontage Rd 752-0570 xt 168 & 169

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 112

Mi Casa 2613 Thonotosassa Rd 752-0057 Norma's Ybor City Cuban Shop 1305 Baker St E 754-6557 Orange Blossom Tea Room 106 Evers St S 759-2247 Outback Steakhouse 1203 Townsgate Ct 759-4329

Shelby's & Jacob's Java 110 Reynolds St E 719-6570 Snellgrove's Restaurant 109 S Collins 752-3652 Sonic 2901 James L Redman Pkwy 754-0300 Sonny's Real Pit Bar-B-Q 1102 Goldfinch Dr 757-3118 Strawberry Hut Sandwich Shoppe 1505 Wheeler St N 752-3779 Strawberry Paradise 4511 James L. Redman Parkway (813) 737-3866 Sub Conscious 101 E Reynolds St, Suite 500 754-6566 Subway 2305 Thonotosassa Rd 754-4550

Taco Bell 210 Baker St W 707-8966 Taco Bell 2307 Jas Redman Pkwy 754-5146 Taco Loco Restaurant 14672 Dr MLK Blvd 659-0916 Tim's CafÈ 10903 Lithia Pinecrest Rd 737-4026 Twistee Treat 2301 Jas Redman Pkwy 707-9303 Vallarta's Mexican Restaurant 410 Alexander St 759-2521 Waffle House 1201 Townsgate Ct 707-0190 Wendy's 1601 Baker St W 759-1500 Westshore Pizza 1701 S Alexander St, St 108 754-5600 Whistle Stop CafÈ 102 S Collins 752-7340 Woody's Bar-B-Q 203 Alexander St W 754-3229

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FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 113

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 114

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15 -AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 115

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

July 17th Strawberry Classic Car Show in downtown Plant City 4 -9 pm

July 17th & 18th USSSA Youth State Softball Tournament (all ages) at Plant City Stadium. For more info, visit www.plantcitygov.com/rec or call 813-659-425.

July 21, 22 & 23 Grace United Methodist Church 1801 E Cherry Street, Plant City is having Vacation Bible School from 6-8:30 pm. For grades K- 12th.To register call Jim or Ann @ 752-4316 or leave your name and grade at 659-3718.

July 24th Central Florida Bluegrass Assoc jam session in McCall Park 4 – 8 pm

July 24th Plant City Friends of Habitat for Humanity 1st annual golf tournament at Plant City Golf Club. Registration is at 10 am. Call 813-239-2242 for additional info and to sign up.

July 31st YMCA Healthy Kids Day at the new YMCA complex, 1507 YMCA Place, Plant City. Gets underway at 11 am and goes until 2 pm. Call the “Y” at 813-757-6677 for additional information.

August 7th Summer Kids Night Out at the Plant City Planteen, 301 Dort St. This is for children ages 5 – 12. Registration fee is $5.00 per child. For more information, e-mail jjenkins@plantcitygov.com or call 813-757-9166

August 14th Antique Street Fair and Arts & Crafts Fair at McCall Park in historic downtown Plant City.

7 am -12 pm

August 21st Lancer’s Soccer Team Beach Party 7:30 pm – 1 am at the Armory Music, food, open bar and prizes Tickets - $35 in advance, $40 at the door Proceeds to benefit the U-12 Lancer’s boy’s soccer Call Chris Black for more info @ 299-2449.

Bruton Memorial Library 302 McLendon Street 757-9215 Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Friday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Sunday 1:00 – 5:00 p.m.

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS WEEKLY PROGRAMS—Pre-Registration Required

Tuesday Story Programs Preschoolers, Tuesday, July 20, at 10:30 a.m. Activities for 2-5 year old children; 30-45 minutes of stories, music, games and a takehome activity.

School Age Story Program, Tuesday, July 20, at 2:30 p.m. Literaturebased program for ages 6-12 years; 45-60 minutes of stories, crafts, games and surprises, all specifically Florida-related!

Wednesday Film Programs Feature Films @ 2:00 p.m., July 21. For boys and girls, ages 5-14 years, who can sit through a full-length video. Titles and times will be posted in the library. Bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy during the film. (The library will not provide any refreshments.) Films average about 1 _ hours.

Monday Computer Programs Registration and free tickets required for this series of three programs using the library’s wireless computer lab. For ages 9 to 13 years. Tickets available June 28. ∑ Word Processing Wonders, Monday, July 19, 2:30 p.m. Learn to make anything you write look cool. Learn the basics of word processing, as well as how to add color and style to your papers. ∑ Finding Pictures on the Web, Monday, July 26, 2:30 p.m. Learn to find pictures and graphics that will make anything you type look extra special. Find out how to search the Internet for pictures and how to put pictures in word processing documents.

ADULT PROGRAMS Book Discussion: “Cold Mountain,” by Charles Frazier, Tuesday, August 3, 11 a.m. Book available for check out at the circulation desk.

Art Exhibits Watercolors by Jean Chelino – In July, enjoy a display of watercolor paintings.

FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 116

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(813) 707-1221 FOCUS PLANT CITY EDITION JULY 15- AUGUST 15 • 2004 PG 120

Family Owned & Operated “One Call Does It All”