FOCUS Plant City 06-12 Dec 2007

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Volume 6 Number 12 • December 15, 2007 - January 15, 2008

FREE At 200+ Locations In Plant City

TAke ONE PLANT CITY EDITION

e Owner of Bre with th iew win v r e gt t on In t ’s h g i To l t w o in Sp g

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 2

tabl e of co n t e n ts

48-53

feature

If you’ve ever strolled down Plant City’s J. Arden Mays Blvd. and looked up at the windows over the Whistle Stop Café, you might have noticed several names listed there. According to the Whistle Stop’s owner, Jerry Lofstrom, there is a very good reason that these names are so prominently displayed.

It seems that several years ago, Lofstrom had the idea to celebrate the richness of Plant City’s history by honoring those who helped make it what it is today. As he began to move forward, Lofstrom made the decision to call upon three well-respected Plant Citians: D.E. Bailey, Jr., Panky Snow and Bob Edwards. Agreeable to Lofstrom’s idea, each member then compiled a list of possible candidates for the windows. On the day the group finally gathered, much discussion took place and the difficult task of reducing down to the final 17 names was accomplished.

The first phrase of the project is now complete and currently includes ten individuals.

i ssu e 6- 12

dining & entertainment

112-131

It was another amazing performance in the Red Rose Dining Room at the Red Rose Inn & Suites.

The Tams came to town with their unique blend of Motown and beach music and they filled the restaurant with an electricity and energy that is hard to find in any performer today. Legendary founder Charles Pope and his son “Li’l Redd” led the band through their performances including classic hits like “What Kind of Fool,” as well as new material from their justreleased album.

spotlight 58-61 David Brewington, Owner/Operator of Brewington’s Towing, works hard each day to ensure he’s doing the right things with his business, his family, and helping within the community where he can.

MAGAZINE Publisher Mike Floyd mike@floydpublications.com Editor In Chief Kristen Toney ktoney@floydpublications.com Office Manager DeDe Floyd dede@floydpublications.com Credit Manager Lori Boyle lboyle@floydpublications.com SALES Sophia Hyde shyde@floydpublications.com Tammy Simpson tsimpson@floydpublications.com Jennifer Beste jbeste@floydpublications.com Cindy Carson ccarson@floydpublications.com Joanna Hinson jhinson@floydpublications.com Art Director Stefanie Burlingame Graphic design Anthony Sassano / Phil Ransdell Distribution Belva DeVane Photographer Billy Friend Staff Writers Brian West, Wendy Brown, Pat Hearn, Holly Mallalieu, Heather Davis, Cheryl Johnston, Sherry Baldwin, Daniel Sperry, Janeel Shulmister, Ashley Baxley, David Shulmister Contributors Sherry Nueesch, Gil Gott, Al Ruechel, Shelton Keely, Michael Cameron, Bruce Rodwell, Natalie Sweet, Dr. Susan Ott FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants, and many local venues.

Letters, Questions and Comments can be sent to us at ktoney@floydpublications.com.

local

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

7-45

We’re wrapping up the old year and getting ready to embark on the new! From schools to churches, clubs to charities, catch up on all the hustle and bustle in Plant City.

published by:

business profile

Each month we write about one of our advertisers, and their place in the community of Plant City. This month we feature a great part to Plant City: PAR Interiors

floyd publications, Inc.

on the cover: David Brewington Photo by Kristen Toney

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 4

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

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 5

l e t t e r F R O M T H E ED I T O R When I think of Christmas, I think of my grandparents.

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When I was younger, the time period between Thanksgiving and Christmas was filled with calls and visits from my grandfather, each time trying to trick me into telling what he was getting for Christmas. I came close to spoiling the surprise many times, but try as he might, he was never able to get me to “disclose full information”! The older I grew, the easier it was to ward off the questions; it became a game we played each year.

While my grandfather was attempting to get me in trouble with the rest of the family, my grandmother was shopping, cooking and spoiling everyone. I remember the Christmas baking parties we would have, and then being able to tell everyone at the Christmas gatherings that “I made that all by myself!”

On the other side of the family, I remember grandparents who were hard workers, always had a full house no matter the occasion, and were thrilled with any new venture their grandchildren accomplished. Probably some of the loudest holidays I ever spent were at their house; my dad is one of five kids – add up the spouses, their kids, their kid’s spouses and their kid’s kids, that makes for quite a racket!

Now, one grandmother remains. As she grows older, each Christmas is more special, because we’re not sure how many more Christmases she will be with the family. As the family continues to grow, I can’t help but think of how much fun my grandfathers and grandmother who have gone before us would have had seeing how all the grandbabies and great-grandbabies have grown, seeing what their kids are doing now, and enjoy the company of their family.

This month our Spotlight Interview is with a man who knows how to make the most of every moment he’s been given, and he’s proven that through successful ventures such as Brewington’s Towing & Recovery and directing the entertainment for the Strawberry Festival. He took a few moments to share his vision for the future with us. In our Feature and our Local section, you’ll find even more people who are making the most of their own moments.

As we finish off all the turkey leftovers and begin to wrap the Christmas presents, remember the moments you’ve had with your family. Don’t take one for granted.

A year changes much in life; this holiday season may be one you look back on as the best you’ve ever had.

Merry Christmas!

1009 W. Baker St. Plant City, FL 33563 813-759-1232 www.nowcare.com FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 6

With You In Mind,

Kristen Toney Editor In Chief

local talkofthetown

story and photos subm itted by the commu n it y send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

TALK OF THE TOWN Congratulations to the new Plant City Family YMCA Board Members: Richard Hopkins, Jack Mulqueen, Rhett Rollyson, Bruce Sperry and Stevens Tombrink. Thank you for your service to our community!

LifePath Hospice received a proclamation from the city of Plant City on November 13 in honor of National Hospice Month. Myra Price, site director of the LifePath Hospice Temple Terrace Community Resource Center accepted the proclamation from Plant City Mayor Rick Lott, who also serves on the LifePath Hospice’s board of directors.

Plant City Photo Archives has finalized its upcoming events for December 2007 – March 2008. Annual Memberships are now due: Founders Circle - $250; Patrons - $100; Friends - $50; Basic - $25.

For more information, call (813) 754-1578.

The CollegePro Painters of Canada will be in Plant City from December 28 – 30 doing volunteer work, painting the homes of low-income seniors who are ElderLink clients. For more information, call (813) 571-1684 X 2.

Congratulations to Kelleigh Klein, who recently took over the responsibilities of Plant City’s United Food Bank! We know Kelleigh will do a wonderful job, and we thank Linda Lawson for her many years of dedicated service!

Vogel Realty Services would like to welcome a new real estate agent, Lorrie Vogel-Avendano. A life-time resident of Plant City, Lorrie brings banking and corporate experience to market. Lorrie, her husband Dennis and their four children live in Walden Lake. For more information, call (813) 659-3306.

Santa again selected the Recreation and Parks Department to help with the Ho Ho Hotline & Express (Santa’s Calling). The first 200 youths registered received a call from Santa, Mrs. Claus or an elf. If the child was not at home during the time of the call, a personalized letter was sent. Thanks to the Recreation and Parks Department and Santa

and his crew for all their Christmas cheer!

Plant City Attorney Joe Dickerson recently spoke at the Strategic Marketplace Breakfast, hosted by Somebody Cares Plant City. For more information on how you can become involved with this business group, contact Norm Blanton at (813) 752-4671.

Mr. Bill Dodson announced that he will seek reelection to the City Commission, a vote that takes place on April 8, 2008. For more information on how you can support Mr. Dodson, call (813) 754-1521 X 15.

This years Strawberry Festival entertainment line-up is better than ever! Bobby Vinton, Josh Turner, Charley Pride, Miranda Lambert, Jeff & Sheri Easter, The Isaacs, MercyMe, Chris Cagle, Alan Jackson, Mickey Gilley, Travis Tritt, Glen Campbell, Blake Shelton, Crystal Gayle, Tom Jones, The Smothers Brothers, Charlie Daniels, Gene Watson, Trace Adkins, Billy Ray Cyrus, Neal McCoy, Sugarland and Jason Aldean are all scheduled to perform. For more information, call (813) 754-1996 or visit www.flstrawberryfestival. com.

A District 4 Holiday Greetings commercial was recently recorded by Commissioner Al Higginbotham that featured residents in District 4. Most

continued on page 8

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 7

local talkofthetown

story and photos subm itted by the commu n it y send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

TALK OF THE TOWN of the commercials filmed are in the HTV studio and feature the commissioner or a member of the county executive team. Commissioner Higginbotham did not want to feature himself, but wanted to feature the district he represents instead.

Special and at times unknown, things in our district were targeted such as Sun City Center Volunteer Emergency Squad, Beth-El Mission, Riverview, FishHawk, Bealsville, Red Barn on Thonotosassa Road and Plant City Strawberries. Thanks to Commissioner Higginbotham, for featuring his district!

Get Healthy, Lose Weight the Healthy Way in ‘08.

The Plant City Optimist Club held their annual Youth Appreciation Ceremony and recognized four local high school students for their accomplishments.

Congratulations to Stephanie Barker, Jarrod Burnette, Skoti McElveen and Kevin Taylor!

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 8

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 9

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Sto ry a n d P hoto by S h e rry Bal dwin send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

Author Shares Message Listen and Follow Your Own Intuition

During a recent meeting, members of the GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City enjoyed a traditional Thanksgiving luncheon hosted

by Club members Jenny Leitner and Betty Chambers. The women worked together to prepare delicious roast turkey, dressing and gravy.

Each of the remaining Club members then contributed their own “favorite dish,” which resulted in a wonderful feast. Following lunch, Club members further enjoyed a special guest speaker, arranged by Club President Alise Sollenberger. Sylvia Knox, the Club’s Education Chairman, introduced Helena Bachmann “H.B.” Milligan.

Milligan, a TIME Magazine correspondent, is also the author of the romance novel “Teeth in a Pickle Jar.” Well received, “Teeth in a Pickle Jar,” was awarded a Notable Mention at the 2006 Writers Notes Book Awards.

While not meant to be autobiographical, Milligan shared that many aspects of the book do parallel her own life. As for the title, Milligan coyly stated, “It is a metaphor for something that readers will just have to find out for themselves.” Milligan further shared her experiences forming her own company “Hand-in-Hand Publishing.”

Later, in a question and answer session, Milligan acknowledged that she is considering a sequel to this first book. Overall, her message to the group was clear. “Listen and follow your own intuition,” stated Milligan. This is a lesson that appears to have served her well…both personally and professionally.

For more information on the GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City please telephone: (813) 752-4871. For information on H.B. Milligan or to obtain copies of her new book you may visit: www.teethinapicklejar.com.

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Author H.B. Milligan, along with Woman’s Club member Judy Glorioso, during book signing following recent luncheon.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 11

local AROUNDTOWN

Story and Photos by Janeel C. Shu lm i st e r send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

Fall Fancy The South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation’s 6th Annual Event The gorgeous Walden Lake home of Kim and Judy Blok-Andersen was the venue for the South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation’s Fall Fancy held Saturday, November 10th.

Proceeds from this annual fundraising event benefit the Pediatric Department of SFBH. According to The Foundation’s Executive Director, Judy Martin, Fall Fancy is held each year in a different private home and generates between $7,000.00 - $9,000.00 dollars.

When guests arrived, they were chauffeured by honor students from Plant City High School to the entrance of the Blok-Andersen home in golf carts loaned by residents of the Walden Lake Community. The homeowners greeted guests as they entered into their elegant foyer.

A self–guided tour of the luxurious home, a

buffet luncheon catered by the SFBH Dietary Department and table top shopping were the scheduled events of the day.

The delightful sounds of people truly enjoying themselves emanated from every square foot of the beautiful home and spilled out into the

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A savory selection of foods was served in the kitchen. Guests enjoyed beverages by the pool and the shopping took place under an outdoor canopy with tempting desserts creatively displayed near by. With nine local boutique vendors, there was plenty to chose from.

This fundraising event is one of three that the Foundation sponsors each year. The Diamonds and Denim Gala was held on September 27th.

Their third event, Lights of Love, was held on Thursday, December 6th in McCall Park.

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 12

For more information on The South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation, please call (813) 757-8478.

local AROUNDTOWN

Story and photo by c heryl jo hnsto n send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

Lights of Love 9th Annual Christmas Lighting Ceremony McCall Park filled with families the evening of December 6th for South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation’s 9th Annual Lights of Love celebration. The lighting ceremony benefits the pediatrics unit. This year, Fred and Tammy Johnson acted as honorary chairs, while Mayor Rick Lott emceed, and Pete Battaglia directed the music program.

Each fall, Executive Director Judy Martin oversees a mailing to 10,000 Plant City households, offering an opportunity to purchase a light for the park’s huge evergreen Christmas tree. Community response is always wonderful and the hospital sincerely appreciates the local support. Major sponsors are Publix Supermarkets Charities, The Tribune and Courier, and the SFBH Foundation. Others are recognized with personalized gift boxes situated

underneath the tree. A printed program lists donors, many who commemorate a deceased family member or honor someone they admire.

The festively dressed Children’s Choir from First Baptist Church performed carols after Reverend Richard Bills’ invocation. Amber Davis honored God with her flawless rendition of “O Holy Night.” After the program, children lined up for photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Our city’s General Services Department begins work in July preparing the displays for Christmas in McCall Park.

Invaluable, cost-efficient service is also provided by the city’s General Services Division. Field supervisor Ed Dudley and his seven-man team begin in July preparing the city’s decorations, many of which they’ve designed and constructed. They look forward to

“flipping the switches” to kick off the Christmas season downtown.

This event is always a special community time when citizens connect for a common goal – the future of our children. The 9th Annual celebration was certainly one to be remembered.

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 13

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local tellyourtale

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Sto ry a n d p hoto by Ho l ly Mal l al ieu send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

LaVerne Cribbs A Part of Plant City

Plant City is blessed to have a handful of people who have stayed in town since growing up here. LaVerne Cribbs is one of these long-time residents. Born at South Florida Baptist Hospital, she grew up only four blocks from where she lives today and has quite a history here.

LaVerne attended Jackson Elementary, Tomlin Middle School, and Plant City High School when it was still located where Tomlin is today. At PCHS her graduating class was actually the final one to be called the “Planters�. It was at about this age when LaVerne worked her first job at Tatum and Johnson’s Clothing which used to be located downtown. On a youth trip with the church she grew up attending, Eastside Baptist, she met her husband Dennis and the two were married at their mutual LaVerne Cribbs church. They will be celebrating their 35th year of marriage come August. Even after seven years residing in Lakeland, the couple returned to raise their three children Nicole, Brian, and Eric in Plant City. It’s here where Dennis’ family is located, which is very important to the Cribbs.

Besides staying busy with her family and two young grandchildren, LaVerne has been a Nature’s Sunshine consultant for the past 13 years. A well-studied, certified natural health professional, she runs a home business and frequently teaches classes, consulting with people on diet, nutrition, and herbs. Just recently she returned from a week-long cruise in celebration of the company’s 35th year of business. Alongside Nature’s Sunshine, her family and being active at Hopeweaver Church are also very important elements in LaVerne’s life. LaVerne puts her heart into everything she is a part of, and that is what makes her such a special person in the lives of those around her.

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 15

local AROUNDTOWN

Story by Kriste n To ney / Photo by John L . Di c ks, II

Taking a Stand

John Dicks Runs for Congress Whether you only know him as our former Mayor, or you actually grew up with him here in Plant City, John Dicks has always been one to strive for the best in life, and now is no exception. He’s officially running for Congress, an idea he’s been tossing around since he was completing his term as Plant City Mayor over this past summer.

Hope, Security and Opportunity is not only what Dicks believes in and is proud of in America, but it’s also the tagline for his campaign. He believes the recent strong backing from Phyllis Busansky is a plus for the journey ahead, and he’s honored his friend has come alongside this early in the campaign. “Folks here have already provided an

overwhelming amount of encouragement, for which I am grateful,� Dicks enthused about the people of Plant City.

For more information on his campaign, visit www.johndicksforcongress.com.

Check back with Focus for a larger interview with Dicks, coming in the fall of 2008.

“It really is time that we have some commonsense leadership in Washington,� Dicks commented. “We need a representative who recognizes and shares our values, and is willing to exert some leadership, break through all the bickering and the petty party politics that goes on and really work towards some solutions.�

Dicks knows the skills he gained over the nine years he served on our City Commission can be put to great use in Washington, and is thankful for the support of his peers, city and family.

Wife Sharon is “enthusiastically neutral�, Dicks laughed, and sons John (first year law student at the University of Florida) and Jarod (a Senior at Annapolis and soon-to-become-pilot) are very encouraging towards the cause.

John Dicks

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FOCUS Magazine plant city â&#x20AC;˘ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 16

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local artistofthemonth

story and photo by heather davi s send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

Creating Art

From A Place Deep Within How many have sat down to absentmindedly doodle and find ourselves surprised by what was accomplished? This was the experience of Karl Hanson, who found himself doodling one day at work while on a business call. He soon realized that what began as a simple line with no direction took on a life of itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own.

Karl uses the Buddhist term â&#x20AC;&#x153;Monkey Mindâ&#x20AC;? when it comes to describing himself, meaning his brain never rests. Using this to his advantage he was able to put pen to paper and let his mind take over from there. For Karl the experience comes from somewhere deep in the subconscious. He never has a plan but just lets it flow. Karl will create from this frame of mind for many hours. If he becomes stuck at some point he will begin filling in his sketch with color, once again allowing his subconscious to be his guide - never questioning if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right, but allowing it to be.

While providing a creative outlet, Karl expresses that for him it is just fun and he never takes himself seriously or tries to over-think it. Once again Karl Hanson without any planning Karl soon found that others began to notice and express enjoyment over what he was creating.

Karlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work is abstract and full of symbolism. One could fall into one of his pieces and become completely lost within all the details.

Each look at his work will reveal something new and exciting; something only someone with a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Monkey Mindâ&#x20AC;? could conceive and create.

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local AROUNDTOWN

Story by As hl ey Baxley Photo Courtesy of Lord of Life Evangelical Lutheran Church

Medieval Market Day A Time to Celebrate As leaves flutter to the ground and the Thanksgiving season commences, the country is reminded of how precious it is to spend time with family and friends. The Plant City area and abroad had the opportunity to come together at the Medieval Market Day hosted by the Lord of Life Evangelical Lutheran Church on Mud Lake Road. The festival was held on November 10 from 1:00p.m. to 8:00p.m. and offered the community the chance to participate in activities inspired by the Renaissance era while commemorating the birth of Martin Luther.

Church members helped depict the theme by dressing up as monks, peasants, and other influential people of the century. Some children even created their own armor to wear during kidfriendly jousting involving pool â&#x20AC;&#x153;noodles.â&#x20AC;? They

could also participate in a cake-walk, get their faces painted, or embellish goblets with jewels.

Adults were able to unleash their creativity by illustrating illuminated Bible pages, representing the primary form of reproduction during medieval times. Some also chose to paint flower pots at the fresh herb sale. Others chose to browse the yard sale or add an inspirational book to their library.

Refreshments included apple cider and bean soup, as well as other favorites.

Homemade baked goods were also available.

Not only did this event provide fellowship and fun, it also proved educational. Large print reproduction paintings, as well as wood

Pastor Russ Martin (right), helps set the tone of the festival by portraying a sixteenth century monk.

carvings portrayed the Reformation era. Lord of Life would like to thank Christ Our Redeemer Lutheran Church for lending this beautiful and enlightening display.

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local AROUNDTOWN

Story and Photo by pat hearn send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

Gun Safety Is Key

Youth Is Accidentally Shot With B.B. Gun Monday, October 19th, there was no school so kids were finding ways to occupy themselves on their day off. Sean Colleran was one such student. Sean, along with a couple of his friends, were hanging out at one of their houses. One of the friends decided to show off his B.B. gun and when he picked it up it accidentally went off. Sean was hit directly in his left eye, leaving him blind.

He was immediately taken to South Florida Baptist Hospital where he was put in emergency operation to save his eye. The doctors put fifteen stitches in the front of his eye. He was transferred to St. Joseph’s and was put in quarantine for a week. A second surgery found the B.B. Unfortunately it was resting on an optic nerve so the doctors were unable to remove it.

Still up for more operations, the future of his eyesight as well as his eye is still unclear.

Sean Colleran wants everyone to know the importance of gun safety.

However, 14 year-old Sean Colleran is just happy to be alive and feels he shouldn’t take anything for granted. Sean, along with the rest of his family, is also thankful for everyone’s support. Numerous businesses and organizations around town have donated generously. Sean was even paid a surprise visit by City Commissioner Robert Brown, who just so happens to have a prosthetic eye.

The visit, Sean said, made him feel more comfortable with the possibility of having a prosthetic eye himself.

Despite all that’s happened Sean wants to use the experience to help others. He is working to have the age of owning a B.B. gun raised. He also advises everyone to “treat every gun like it’s loaded.”

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 20

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 21

local AROUNDTOWN

Story by kriste n to ney / p hotos by floyd pu bli c ati o ns staff

The Best of the Barbeque 5th Annual Pig Jam a Huge Success!

It could not have been a more beautiful day at the Randy Larson Four-Plex on November 17, as the 5th Annual Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s Pig Jam was in full swing.

Sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society, this event right here in Plant City brings in BBQ chefs from all over the United States (this year, 54 professional teams and 30 amateur teams) and awards more than $15,000 to its winners. Also close to 15,000 was the number of attendees at the event, which was a great feature for Pig Jam Chairman Chris Sparkman.

Hats were passed out to attendees ready for barbeque!

“It was fantastic!” Sparkman commented. “We had the most competitors and the most patrons we’ve ever had. We couldn’t ask for a better day.

It was so much fun putting the event together, and we’re looking forward to next year!”

If you missed the festivities this year, you certainly want to attend the 2008 Pig Jam, already scheduled for November 22.

Pig Jam is always a great family event.

Mark Poppell carves up some great pork!

The 2007 Pig Jam!

Pig Jam drew crowds of all ages.

Congratulations to the winners!

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 22

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local AROUNDTOWN

Story by Chery l Johnsto n / Photo Cou rtesy of th e Hac zyns ki s

Huge Winnings for “H”

DHS English Teacher Competes on “Millionaire” Teachers are expected to be culturally literate, but seldom do they expect that literacy to be rewarded financially. Recently, Durant High School students and staff celebrated as English teacher Ryan Haczynski won $50,000 on the popular TV game show “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” Host Meredith Viera smiled frequently at the not-quite-a-millionaire who charmed the audience as the cool, calm, and collected “H.” Haczynski credits his book and music passion for answer help. Likeminded friend and teaching peer, Michelle Demeter, challenged him to test for the show. Of 30,000 who test annually, 3,000 challengers qualify. Only 300 of those tape onair segments in New York. When “H” received notification, he and brand-new wife, Erin, added the August 7th event to their summer plans.

The newlyweds will use some of their winnings for a Greek islands tour and invest some in future children or retirement. Mrs. H teaches elementary grade students, while Mr. H teaches Honors English. Prior to this fourth year at DHS, he was a graduate teaching assistant in USF’s Religious Studies Department. He desires a similar rigorous and diversified experience for his high schoolers.

Haczynski believes it is important for students to develop intellectual curiosity, encouraging game show and trivia contest participation to increase their cultural I.Q. According to H, “competing in your own living room with friends is definitely more relaxing than sweating out answers in the hot seat before strangers.” To that, his DHS family says, “Thanks, teacher, for inspiration worth a million!”

Newlyweds Ryan and Erin Haczynski plan to use some of their $50,000 prize money on a trip to Greece.

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 24

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 25

local AROUNDTOWN

submit ted by b ruc e ro dw ell

Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce

DeVry University/6700 Lakeview Center Drive, Suite 150/Tampa, FL

The Spring at Plant City/701 Tillman Place

On November 8th the Plant City Economic Development Council and the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held their 15th Annual BUSINESS OF THE YEAR awards banquet at the Red Rose Inn. Congratulations to the winners:

comfortable temperatures. Everyone that attended enjoyed great prize winning barbeque.

Growing Business (1-5 years in business) Advantage Restoration, Inc. Small Business (1-15 employees) Alday-Donaldson Title Agency, Inc. Mid-Size Business (16-50 employees) Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Large Business (51+ employees) AmeriCare Ambulance Service, Inc. A Special Exemplary Community Contribution Award was presented to the United Food Bank & Services of Plant City, Inc.

This event was held at the Randy Larson FourPlex and is sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society and brings in BBQ chefs from all over the country. Over $15,000 in prizes were awarded to the winners.

In the words of Chris Sparkman, Chairman, “This was the greatest Pig Jam yet”. He estimated the crowd at 15,000 plus!

A big tip of the Chamber hat to Chris, and Jodi Smith, who was Co-Chair, and the entire committee of volunteers for putting on this wonderful event.

Strawberry Hut Sandwich Shoppe/ 1505 North Wheeler Street

Visitors will enjoy seeing the original building – including windows, doors, ticket counters and some flooring as it was in its heyday of 1909.

Railroad memorabilia and a model replica of downtown Plant City, as it was in the mid-1960’s, are on display at the center. The model, featuring miniature buildings, was artfully crafted through photographs found in historical archives.

Take a trip back in time, to the late 1800s when Plant City’s population totaled approximately 400.

Things were just beginning to take shape with thirteen general stores, four hotels, three sawmills, a few churches and a post office. Cotton, lumber, fruits and vegetables were shipped daily by rail, through Union Station.

HHHHHHHHHHHH

This was a great event and one that every Chamber member looks forward to every year.

Mark your calendars now for next year’s PIG JAM, which will be held on Saturday, November 22nd. You will not want to miss it.

HHHHHHHHHHHH

HHHHHHHHHHHH

Were you one of the lucky ones that attended the Greater Plant City Chamber’s 5th Annual PIG JAM? The weather was nothing short of spectacular. We like to refer to it as “Chamber of Commerce weather”! Yes, it started out a bit on the cool side but warmed up to sunny skies and very

Did you visit the 16th Annual Christmas Showing of Fine Art which was held on December 6th at Walden Lake Golf Country Club? If you were one of the lucky ones that attended, you were able to view first hand just what a talented group of artists we have in our community. This event is sponsored each year by the East Hillsborough Art Guild.

Plant City’s very own UNITED FOOD BANK has a new Executive Director. After an extensive search and interviewing process, Plant City’s very own Kelleigh Klein was selected to take over this all-important job.

Kudos to Linda Lawson, who for eight years was in charge of this great facility. Linda always referred to the Food Bank as “her baby”, and rightfully so. She was the founder back in September of 1999. Since that time the Food Bank has served close to 50,000 individuals in the Plant City area.

HHHHHHHHHHHH

Looking for something to do while you take a break from Christmas shopping? Plan a visit to Plant City’s very own UNION STATION welcome center and railroad museum.

Hawthorne Management dba Frenchman’s Market/ 102 South Evers Street

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 26

Gibson Golf Academy/2001 Clubhouse Drive (Walden Lake Golf & Country Club)

p lant city cham ber continued

THOMAS A. DIGERONIMO, M.D.,P.A. BOARD CERTIFIED NEUROLOGIST

The Food Bank provides temporary assistance with food, personal hygiene items and other last resort assistance to needy families and individuals in eastern Hillsborough County.

GLENN D. TURNER, A.R.N.P.

HHHHHHHHHHHH

Some dates for your calendars: January 5th the Bike Fest in downtown Plant City starts at 5 PM. January 9th Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Contact Breakfast. Starts at 7:30 a.m. at the Red Rose Inn. Call the Chamber at 754-3707 to RSVP. January 12th Antique Market and Green Market in downtown Plant City.

Gets underway at 8:00 AM. January 19th Strawberry Classic Car Show in downtown Plant City.

Starts at 4 PM. January 21st Martin Luther King, Jr. Day HHHHHHHHHHHH

On behalf of the entire membership and staff of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, we wish you a MERRY CHRISTMAS and a healthy, safe and prosperous NEW YEAR. Remember to support and shop at the businesses where you see this sign: MEMBER OF THE GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.

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Scenes from November’s Business After Hours at Bill Heard Chevrolet

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 27

local AROUNDTOWN

Story by Kriste n To ney / Photos Cou rte sy of Kni ghts E lem entary S c hoo l St u d e n t s

Great American Teach-In Produces Some Real Winners!

This year Focus Magazine participated in the Great American Teach-In at Knights Elementary School. I spent part of the morning and afternoon of November 14 with First and Third Grade classes belonging to Mrs. Holland, Mrs. Lattimore, Miss Rutledge, Mrs. McIntosh and Mrs. Stafford.

After explaining just what it is I do at Focus, and answering questions from young, eager listeners, I offered a challenge to the kids: design your own Focus Magazine cover. After informing the children that there would be first, second and third place winners published in the magazine, they set to work, and here are their results!

I wish we were able to print all of the covers these kids designed!

Congratulations to the winners, and I appreciate each child who designed a cover! You all did a fantastic job!

1st

First Place: Sai Vang from Mrs. Lattimore’s class Second Place: Christopher Ramos from Ms. Rutledge’s class Third Place: Wade Bowmer from Mrs. Holland’s class

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 28

2nd

3rd

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 29

local aroundtown

Story by Daniel Sperry / P hoto C ou rtesy of An t ho n y Rodr i gue z

Local Family Fights for MS Cure Annual Dinner Raises Awareness When Anthony Rodriguez was 18 years old, he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis.

He was a senior at Plant City High School and living the life of a normal teenager.

Almost immediately, Anthony and his family decided that they needed to something to raise awareness of the disease. Within 8 months of the diagnosis, the Rodriguez’s organized their first MS Walk in Plant City and their work has continued every year since then. This January, they are planning an MS awareness dinner at St. Clement Catholic Church, with a “Hollywood Nights” theme. Every year they spread the word through Plant City and they hope that this year will be the best event ever.

disease, but also allows us to inform people about the damage this ‘invisible monster’ is capable of.”

Everyone is excited about the fifth annual fundraiser this year. A group of volunteers from Plant City have joined together to host the Hollywood Nights dinner, which will take place on January 12th at 5:30 PM. It is open to everyone, and tickets are only $12.00 for

that record numbers will join them for this worthwhile event, which is open to everyone.

For further information, contact Carol Rodriquez at: (813) 727-5214.

“Regardless of how much money we make, I feel that our purpose is being served,” said Carol Rodriguez. “I would venture to say that everyone in Plant City knows what MS is and what sort of effects it has on the body

Multiple Sclerosis is an insidious disease that can attack without warning. It attacks the central nervous system, building up plaque on nerves and nerve endings, affecting the body’s ability to send and receive signals from the brain. As a result, people with MS can experience a wide range of symptoms that get progressively worse throughout the years. It can be a painful, frustrating disease, and there is currently no cure. Over time the disease can affect the person’s internal organs, brain function and cognitive ability and can produce other symptoms such as dizziness and vertigo.

But Anthony and his family have been vigorously fighting to raise money and awareness for the fight against this disease.

They have taken the initiative since 2001 to make sure that the people of Plant City, at least, are educated and informed about MS, which affects millions nationwide. Carol Rodriguez, Anthony’s mother, is passionate about finding a cure. “Anthony and I have worked hard to increase community awareness of MS in our town. Together with the help of may close friends, we created an annual community oriented walk, that not only raises money to find a cure for this

Anthony Rodriguez and his mother, Carol have dedicated themselves to raising awareness for Multiple Sclerosis after Anthony was diagnosed with the disease in 2001

adults and $7.00 for children. Dinner will be served for all ticket holders. The night will include a silent auction, raffle prizes, and other fun activities. A notable point about this Plant City fundraiser is that 100% of all proceeds raised will be donated strictly to MS research. The Rodriguez family hopes

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 30

because of the annual walks. We know that we aren’t going to raise a million dollars for research, but in sharing our knowledge of this disease with others, they will be able to take this information and spread the word about Multiple Sclerosis.

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Story by Janeel C. Shulmister / Photos by Janeel C. Shulmister & Courtesy of Dennis Der

Grand Opening Southside Farm & Pet Supply

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Most people have never even been in a feed store like this.â&#x20AC;? Dennis Der, Owner Southside Farm & Pet Supply Imagine walking into a store unlike any you have ever been in before, where country charm greets you at the front door and ushers you inside; a store where superior customer services is provided along with a wide variety of products and services. That store is right here in Plant City, the Southside Farm & Pet Supply located at 3012 S. Jim Redman There is much to see at Southside Farm & Pet Supply Parkway!

Owned and operated by Dennis Der and his family since 1978, their newly built facility has been thirty years in the making. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The customers are real happy with it. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what makes me happy is that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re coming in saying, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Wow,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? stated Der.

Der is not only providing excellent shopping experiences to customers in his new store, he is also showing his gratitude to our countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disabled soldiers by sponsoring them in annual hunts. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We like to give back; these guys are giving so much for us,â&#x20AC;? stated Der. While serving in Iraq, thirty-four year old Army Staff Sergeant Brad Alexanderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life changed on August 16th of 2006 when an Islamic terrorist approached him and blew herself up. Along with injuring five American soldiers, her mission took Country charm inside Southside several civilian lives and AlexanFarm & Pet Supply derâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s left leg. He has been in rehab in Texas ever since. In April of this year, his wife filed for divorce.

Der and his family are giving Alexander something to look forward to; along with new hunting supplies, they have arranged for him to participate in the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Freedom Fighterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hunt 2008â&#x20AC;? in Texas, January 3-7, 2008.

#!20/24 FOCUS Magazine plant city â&#x20AC;˘ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 32

Sergeant Alexander and other disabled soldiers need our support.

Please call (813) 752-2379 for more information.

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FOCUS Magazine plant city â&#x20AC;¢ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;¢ Page 33

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Story and Photos by Sherry Baldw i n send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

Offering a Second Chance at Life

Plant City Equine Rescue Founded by area resident Shelly Giza in 2004, Plant City Equine Rescue continues its mission of offering the horses that come into its care a “second chance” at life. According to Giza, horses arrive at the 10 acre Knights Griffin Road farm through a variety of ways. Children may have outgrown them or their owners may have found it too difficult to care for them. Sport horses, no longer able to perform after suffering injuries, have also found their way to Plant City Equine Rescue. In the more severe cases, law enforcement has become involved and a true rescue of the animal ensues. Giza shared several stories of traveling many miles (often in the middle of the night) to rescue horses whose demise was imminent.

Once the horses make their way to the farm, they are health checked and a treatment plan

Plant City Equine Rescue staff member, Terri McAdams along with “Tinkerbell,” a member of the farm family.

Dominique Giza, with retired race horse “Shack.”

are used to restore the animal to its optimum health. Throughout the rehabilitation process, each animal also receives a great deal of love and comfort. Of course, it is not uncommon for Rescue staff to become attached to the horses as

The “Geriatric” area of the farm is home to several retired Thoroughbreds.

is established. This is often done without the benefit of the animal’s medical history. Dr. Larry “Doc” Britt, on whose farm the Rescue group is situated, uses his many years of expertise to make decisions that are in the best interest of the animal. Giza stated that common ailments among the rescued horses include: hoof disease and dental neglect. She further added that both traditional and homeopathic remedies

well. In fact, some of these horses have found a permanent home right there on the farm.

While it is hard to see them leave the farm, the Rescue staff is most “happy to see a rehabbed horse go on to a good home,” added Giza. This “second chance at life” may come by moving on to become a companion horse, a riding horse or even one used in therapy. It is due to those happy

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 34

endings, and even those that did not turn out as hoped, that the folks at the Plant City Equine Rescue remain committed to the work that they do. Finding both foster homes and forever homes for the horses is the ultimate goal. But as Giza explained, the rescue process can also be very costly. While she is fortunate to have an arrangement with Doc Britt regarding some of the medical care, she must also rely upon the generosity of others to remain operational. It is her dream that the Rescue organization will someday become self-supportive.

Until that time, there are several ways in which you can help the Plant City Equine Rescue.

There are volunteer opportunities available and an ongoing need for everyday items such as feed, tack, grooming and medical supplies. Larger items such as trailers of any type, 4-wheelers, metal stalls, barn fans and wheel barrels are also needed. Those interested, may make cash donations or direct payments for veterinarian care and/or feed bills on behalf of Plant City Equine Rescue. Ask about their Animal Sponsorship Program as well. For more information on ways you can help, please contact: Plant City Equine Rescue, 914 E. Knights Griffin Rd., Plant City, Florida 33565, Telephone: 813-239-6525 (Shelly), 863- 860-5924 (Cortney) or 813401-0602 (Terry) or you may also visit them on the web at: www.plantcityequinerescue.com.

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ANTIOCH LITTLE LEAGUE &RANKLIN 2OAD s 0LANT #ITY &, s

We would like to Welcome everyone to the 2008 Antioch Little League Season. The registration dates are listed and the times. The registration fees are as follows.

Registration Dates: ST #HILD 4HURS TO &RI TO ND #HILD 3AT TO

!NY CHILD THAT REGISTERS -ON 4UES AFTER THE TH OF 4HURS *ANUARY THE REGISTRATION &RI FEE WILL BE 3AT

TO TO TO TO TO

Tryout Dates: -ON TO 4UES TO 4HURS TO There will be tryouts for Baseball and Softball for the divisions listed below: Minors, Majors, Juniors, & Seniors For any information please contact the park at 986-6074 FOCUS Magazine plant city â&#x20AC;˘ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 35

local AROUNDTOWN

Story and Photos by Cheryl Jo hnsto n send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

The Christmas Caboose Santa Says â&#x20AC;&#x153;Come See the Choo-Choo!â&#x20AC;?

All aboard the Christmas Caboose! Once again, Bob and Felice Willaford welcome local families to their holiday display at 908 Joe McIntosh Road, off SR39 North. Santa will greet the children on Friday and Saturday, December 21st and 22nd from 2 to 6 p.m., and offer each a goody bag in cooperation with Operation Lifesaver, the National Highway/Rail Grade Crossing Accident Prevention Program.

Trains have been a lifelong passion for Bob Willaford, a CSX engineer who retired in 1999 after almost 43 years of service. Several years ago he purchased two of the seven remaining Seaboard Air Line Railroad 5700 series cabooses from 60 originally manufactured. They were discovered deteriorating in Wildwood, overgrown with brush and inhabited by small creatures. Trucks transported both to Plant City, then a crane hoisted one into the Willafordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s yard.

awareness of train related safety, offering their display â&#x20AC;&#x153;for as long as the good Lord allows.â&#x20AC;?

Individuals and groups of all ages are invited to call 813-759-3345 in advance for a free tour.

So, grab your camera, load up the family, and come experience smiling delight as you tour back in time. Admission is free (no donations) and the Christmas memory will be priceless. Choo-choo!

Restoration of caboose #5735 has been a labor of love. Friends and family helped to lay track, clean, scrape, sandblast, paint, and replace windows. The resulting handicapped accessible, first-class showcase for railway nostalgia has been offered to Hillsborough County Schools for class field trips. The Willafords hope to create The Christmas Caboose.

Come see Santa December 21st and 22nd.

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local AROUNDTOWN

Story by Wendy S. B row n / P hotos Cou rte sy of Th e Pl a n t C it y Jun ior Wome n â&#x20AC;&#x2122; s C l u b

Shoes for Tots

Plant City Junior Womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club Looking in the average personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s closet today, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll probably find shoes of every color, heel size and designated for different outfits whether casual, fancy, or fun. But many children in our own community are lucky to have shoes whether too small or large, holey or not. The Plant City Junior Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club to the rescue!

According to Jodi Smith, the Plant City Junior Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club started in 1970 and has done the shoe project for many years. These ladies have a cause close to their heart and sole.

Every school child in this area of 14 elementary schools that is designated needy will receive one pair of the best shoes available from this caring club. Guidance counselors from each school are contacted, get names of kids from alert, compassionate teachers, and then arrange for permission forms. Club members personally

fit each child, shop for shoes, and return with boxes and boxes of footwear for approximately 50 children per school.

our community.â&#x20AC;? It is so rewarding to see the smiles on these kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s faces when they get a new pair of shoes. This project is what we thrive on.â&#x20AC;?

The Junior Womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club meets every second Thursday at the Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club on Wheeler St. at 6:30 p.m.

The club buys quality footwear Michelle Wagner happily putting new shoes on a for each child smiling child. through the proceeds of the Baby Parade, Little Miss Plant City, and two lunch fundraisers. In 2007, 631 kids were served and $5,533.15 spent. Michelle Wegner states, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our local Payless Shoe Store works closely with our club and is enthusiastic about helping

Boxes and boxes of shoes being distributed to schools for needy children.

Law Offices of Joseph M. Williams, P.A. Happy New Year!

T hank you for allowing us to continue to serve Plant City and our valued Clients.

- Joseph M. Williams & Family Joseph M. Willams ATTORNEY AT LAW 1701 Jim Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33566 Phone: 813.719.6605 t 'BY 813.717.9808 www.williamsatlaw.com FOCUS Magazine plant city â&#x20AC;˘ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 38

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 39

local AROUNDTOWN

Story and Photos by Ho lly M allali eu send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

Cosmetology Helps

Skills USA Serves Students With Disabilities Since it was started at the high school back in 2000, “Champions at work” involving the PCHS

Students getting their hair done by the PCHS Cosmetology class

cosmetology class and Best Buddies program has been one of the very best projects to be put together. Under the leadership of Mrs. Laurel Ritenbaugh, the high school’s cosmetology teacher and sponsor of the Skills USA club, it has been running strong and growing better each year.

Every Wednesday, Skills USA members use the grooming techniques they’ve learned to serve special needs students in the high school salon that may not otherwise have any opportunity to receive such treatment. From new haircuts to manicures and pedicures to even makeup for the girls, the classes leave looking great every time. For the students with disabilities, the weekly program has helped improve his or her social skills and each genuinely looks forward to coming. Friendships have been made on both sides, and the students

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 40

enjoy hanging out with one another outside of the classroom as well as in. Everyone is anticipating the annual “Every Buddy’s Beautiful” ball, also put on by the cosmetology class, and which will be held this coming January 25th.

Mrs. Ritenbaugh began the service project after it was brought to her attention that a little girl, because of living in an understaffed home, was getting her hair shaved off instead of being properly groomed in any way. Now the cosmetology students are meeting their objective of bringing joy to those students whose only opportunity for this treatment is with them and they, in turn, are getting just as much out of the program. “We thought we were helping someone else,” says Mrs. Ritenbaugh, “But they’re really helping us.”

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IT’S TIME TO VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE PLANT CITY EATING ESTABLISHMENT AWARDS ARE BASED ON VOTES BY THE READERS OF FOCUS MAGAZINE. ALL VOTES MUST BE IN BY 12/31/07. VOTE FOR PLANT CITY RESTAURANTS ONLY. SHOW YOUR SUPPORT TO YOU FAVORITE PLACE TO EAT AND VOTE. TO VOTE LOG ON TO

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 41

local AROUNDTOWN

Story and Photos by k ri sten to ney send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

Giving Thanks Is Extra Special for These Kids Cathi Cooper has been teaching for 30 years, but this year her kids just seem extra special, and sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gone above and beyond the call of any teacherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s duty.

dinner here at school!â&#x20AC;? Cooper and teachers Regina Sones, Barbara Emerson and Jeanine Barber set out together to create a Thanksgiving their students would remember.

Sweetbay Supermarket on Wheeler Street heard about the special project, and donated a turkey, dressing and sweet potato casserole for the little ones, and the pumpkin pies and corn the students made and shucked on their own.

Kyler Howell and Lucia Pacheco

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We found out that some of our kids werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t going to have a Thanksgiving dinner,â&#x20AC;? she commented of the Kindergarten Bunny class she teaches at Burney Simmons Elementary School. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So we decided to give them a Thanksgiving

Melanie McKinnis

On November 20, two Kindergarten classes, dressed to the nines as pilgrims and Indians, enjoyed a regular feast outside of their classrooms.

Thanks to these teachers and Sweetbay Supermarket for seeing a need in our community and rising to the challenge!

Jikari George

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FOCUS Magazine plant city â&#x20AC;˘ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 42

local AROUNDTOWN

Story by Kriste n To ney / Photos by Billy Fri end and Cou rtney Si n g l eta ry

Two New Homecoming Queens!

For Plant City High School & Durant High School Plant City High School

Durant High School

Name: Alexa Maria Coffee Age: 17-year-old Senior Future Plans: Just sent application to University of Florida, possibly to study Elementary Education Hobbies: Special Olympics and Best Buddies Program

Full Name: Jasmyn LaShawnn Hendricks Age: 17-year-old Senior Future Plans: Planning to major in Mass Communications dealing with Anatomy Hobbies: Piano, Gospel Choir, Writing Poetry, Reading, Jogging

What was your first thought when you were crowned Queen?

What was your first thought when you were crowned Queen?

I thought they made a mistake! She came up behind me and I heard everybody cheering, and I thought she had already crowned somebody else. It was a good feeling, though!

It was exciting! I was very happy, because I’ve only been at Durant three years instead of four like some.

How does this make your Senior year even more special?

It’s great, it’s just one more neat thing to remember. I feel special; that’s a one-time thing, you can’t do that any other time in your life.

Tell us one thing about yourself people might not know.

How does this make your Senior year even more special?

This is the first time I’m mentioned beyond the norm in any yearbook. And it’s neat to meet people who know you, and you didn’t realize it before.

Tell us one thing about yourself people may not know.

I really and truly enjoy studying, and finding ways that help me remember things.

I love to be in pajamas all the time!

GETTING MARRIED? WON AN AWARD? DELIVERED? GOT A PROMOTION? MAGAZINE

Call 813-707-8783 Ext 24 To Share Your Good News FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 43

local AROUNDTOWN

Story and Photos by W endy S. Brow n send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

Preserving Train History The H.B. Plant Railroad Historical Society The wheels on the train go round and round, round and round, circling the track, under the overpass, and through the tunnel. Our local H. B. Plant Railroad Historical Society has successfully integrated the fun of model railroading with historical replication. Many members translate their train hobby to real life jobs. Included at their site at the 1914 High School are five model layouts in three restored rooms and over 1500 museum quality artifacts and memorabilia representing train history. Did you know that Plant City has roots in railroads starting from 1883?

According to member Gilbert Thomas, the 27 year old club has 35 members with a wide range of experiences and ages. Many members

1900-1910 representation of Plant City complete with correct era buildings and vehicles.

FOCUS Magazine plant city â&#x20AC;˘ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 44

local AROUNDTOWN

p reserving tra i n hi sto ry continued

are retired or current employees of railroads, including John Jankowich, a retired conductor on Reading Northern Railroad. He has a passion for trains, and like other members has put in a tremendous number of hours building several model layouts maintaining the Raymond R. Myers museum, volunteering as tour guides as well as going to three or four train shows a year.

At the April 13th, 2007 Spring show, the Plant City Club won Best of Show for a model railroad club.

Their jewel is a 1900-1910 version of Plant City complete with handmade correct era buildings, cars, small people, gators, bald eagles, and foliage. All buildings were handmade using Plant City archive photographs. Trains loop around tracks of this mini version of old time Plant City and show history of a bygone era.

The Atoka Mine track has a coal mine with a little downtown area complete with store windows and signs, trees, a bungee jumper, and even a kayaker. Miles of track go through mountain areas and tunnels. All models are

carefully and artfully done to scale with many extras to make the line simulate reality.

There is a special layout designed for young visitors who can even operate the trains and tracks. This HO layout represents four scale miles of double mainline track and two miles of yard track, is 36 feet long complete with a freight yard, and two passenger stations. The O-27 layout has 60 square feet of track in a loop over and under configuration. Imagine being able to steer your own train, complete with locomotive and caboose around miles of track, past towns, lakes, and streams.

2008 for the 18th Annual Train Show and Swap Meet to be held at the John Trinkle Building at the Plant City HCC campus from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

You’re welcome to join the club or just visit the operational dioramas. Meetings are usually held the last Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. with work sessions on Saturday from 9:00 to 2:00 p.m. Call (863) 412-3090 for more information or visit the website http://hbplantrr.org/.

Member Carl Baxter was a radioman gunner on a B-17 who also retired from CSX as a telegrapher.

He built the 1900-1950-era ticket/telegraph office, and 95% of the T grade railroad model track. Carl even hand-made all the buildings to look as original. Morse code was used on all trains to communicate with the next stop.

So all train aficionados, put on your conductor hats and also come and join the fun on March 15,

H.B. Plant Railroad Historical Society members Ward Parker, Gilbert Thomas, Robert Tile, Arthur Chappell, andJohn Jankowich stand amid scale model railroads and ticket/telegraph office.

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 45

local AROUNDTOWN

Story and Photo by Davi d s hu lm i ster send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

Veterans Day Program Ordinary People showing Extraordinary Patriotism Breakfast sausages, casseroles, eggs, and patriotism; these were all on the menu for the annual Knights Elementary Veterans Day Program held Friday, November 9th at the American Legion Hall, McLeod Post #26.

Upon arrival, veterans were treated to a complementary home-cooked breakfast, served upon patriotic placemats hand-made by Knights’ fourth grade students. While enjoying their meal, up-beat tunes were being played by Jonathan Gautier, Knights’ Music Specialist.

The presentation was opened by Linda Bailey, Principal of Knights Elementary. After thanking all for coming, Mrs. Bailey spoke of the importance of honoring those who have made American freedom possible. She concluded the opening with a story about her late husband,

Jack Bailey, a veteran of World War II, who, like other veterans, “Was just an ordinary guy who, when called upon, did extraordinary things.”

The program continued with the presentation of colors by the Plant City High School JROTC, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem. Fifth grade teacher Dale Hawk sang the tribute “For Freedom”, and fifth grader Megan Shulmister read an original composition titled, “Thank You, Veteran.” Captain Terry Washburn of the United States Navy gave an inspiring speech about the privilege of being an American, and finished by stating that “any day is a great day to acknowledge those who give service to our country.”

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 46

The remainder of the presentation was made by the fourth grade students of Knights Elementary, offering patriotic tunes and speeches covering over two hundred years of American history.

They ended with a medley of military themes, drawing the event to a close with a standing ovation from the crowd.

Knights’ 4th-graders ‘stand’ for patriotism

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-ON 3AT s AM PM FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 47

I

f you’ve ever strolled down Plant City’s J. Arden Mays Blvd. and looked up at the windows over the Whistle Stop Café, you might have noticed several names listed there. According to the Whistle Stop’s owner, Jerry Lofstrom, there is a very good reason that these names

are so prominently displayed. It seems that several years ago, Lofstrom had the idea to celebrate the richness of Plant City’s history by honoring those who helped make it what it is today. As he began to move forward, Lofstrom made the decision to call upon three well-respected Plant Citians: D.E.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 48

Bailey, Jr., Panky Snow and Bob Edwards. Agreeable to Lofstrom’s idea, each member then compiled a list of possible candidates for the windows.

On the day the group finally gathered, much discussion took place and the difficult task of reducing down to the final 17 names was accomplished.

The first phrase of the project is now complete and currently includes the following ten individuals:

Dr. J.W. Alsobrook

1867-1945 • Civic Leader

Dr. John Walter Alsobrook contributed to the community in a variety of ways. Coming to Plant City in 1904, Dr. Alsobrook is said to have “gained prominence as a doctor, surgeon and citizen.” For nearly 40 years, Dr. Alsobrook’s medical practice was located upstairs from Central Pharmacy -- on the corner of Collins and Reynolds Streets. Dr. Alsobrook was the local surgeon for the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad and the Surgeon-in-Chief for the Coronet Phosphate Company.

He also served in World War I in the Army Medical Corps, attaining the rank of Major.

He was affiliated with the American Medical Association, the National Association of Military Surgeons and the Florida State Medical Society. Dr. Alsobrook served as the District President of the Southwest Florida Medical District (serving 13 Florida counties) and the President of the Hillsborough County Medical Society. He was affiliated with the Masonic Lodge and the Knights of Pythias. He helped organize the Plant City Kiwanis and in fact was the Club’s first President. He was also the Post Commander at the American Legion’s Norman McLeod Post. Dr. Alsobrook also sat on the building committee for the Methodist Church here in Plant City.

Dr. J.W. Alsobrook’s Plant City residence.

Quintilla Geer Bruton

1907-1989 • Community Leader

While not moving to Plant City until her adolescence, Quintilla Geer Bruton certainly made Plant City her home. As a student at Plant City High School, she was extremely active and upon graduation in 1926, was named Valedictorian of her class. It is said that she was “vying for this position with James D. Bruton, Jr.” the man who would later become her husband. Active civically, Mrs. Bruton received many awards and commendations. In 1961, she was the first woman to receive the Plant City Outstanding Citizen Award. Other awards included: the Woman’s Club Service Award, the Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycees) Community Service Award, the Greater East Hillsborough County Chamber of Commerce citation for Outstanding Service in Preservation of Local Government and the Florida Library Association’s Outstanding Citizen Library Award. Her

Paul S. Buchman 1923-1991 City Attorney A Plant City High School graduate, Paul S. Buchman enrolled in the University of Florida in the fall 1941. However, with World War II in progress, Mr. Buchman made the selfless decision to withdraw from college and enlist in the U.S. Infantry. His involvement in combat action resulted in his being awarded: the Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star Medal and later the Purple Heart after being wounded in the Battle of Normandy. Upon his honorable discharge from military service, he returned to College followed by Law School. In 1949, Mr. Buchman became the City Attorney for the City of Plant City, where he served for the next 42 years. His endless contributions to the Plant City community included his involvement in the establishment of the Plant City Housing Authority, where he served as both its attorney and it Executive Director for many years.

tireless efforts in seeking county support for library services resulted in a greatly expanded system.

Mrs. Bruton is also credited with helping to organize the Friends of the Library of Hillsborough County. It is not surprising to know that the Public Library located in Plant City is named in honor and in memory of Quintilla Geer Bruton and her husband, Judge James D. Bruton, Jr.

Mr. Buchman was active in the Masonic order, the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans and Veterans of Foreign Wars. He was a member of the Lions Club International and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He was also an active member of Congregation Rodeph Sholom in Tampa as well as the worldwide community service organization B’nai B’rith. Mr. Buchman was also well known for his knowledge and expertise in the area of municipal law. In fact, he was so greatly respected, that the Florida Municipal Attorneys Association named its highest award, the Municipal Attorney of the Year Award, the “Paul S. Buchman Award.” Each and every year, one attorney whose contribution mirrors Mr. Buchman’s, Outstanding Citizen 1982, Paul is honored as S. Buchman. the recipient of this award.

A portion of Florida’s State Road 39 has also been named Paul S. Buchman Highway, in his honor.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 49

Theo McCall City Manager Serving for 27 years, Theodore Jeffers McCall is the longest serving City Manager of Plant City thus far. Called “Mac” by his friends, Mr. McCall’s first “city” job was with the Plant City Fire Department. He also worked at the Plant City Police Department as a Motorcycle Patrolmen, a Jailor and then Police Chief. In addition, he worked as Street Superintendent as well as the Superintendent of Sanitation.

Nettie Mae Draughon, 1959

Nettie Draughon 1921-1998 • City Manager Beginning in 1940 as the assistant to Plant City’s City Clerk, Mrs. Draughon’s years of service to the Plant City community spanned over the next 57 years. In 1947, she was appointed City Clerk and later in 1974, she became City Manager of Plant City – at that time she was one of only six women holding that position in the entire state of Florida. Serving on numerous committees, Mrs. Draughon was highly involved in Veterans organizations, the Junior Woman’s Club and the Business and Professional Women’s Club. She was also very involved at the First United Church of Plant City of which she was a member.

Mrs. Draughon was the recipient of a variety of awards including: the first Plant City Business Woman of the Year in 1956 and Outstanding Citizen of the Year in 1974. In 1998, the Hillsborough County Board of Commissioners selected Mrs. Draughon to be the recipient of the Ellsworth G. Simmons Good Government Award. In her honor, the Nettie Draughon Award was established and is presented each year to “an elected or appointed official who has made an outstanding contribution to a Ridge League city (that includes Plant City) and has helped to promote and advance the ideals and goals of the Ridge League of Cities.” In addition, Plant City’s own City Hall is named the Nettie Berry Draughon Municipal Building in honor of Mrs. Draughon’s many years of dedicated service to the Plant City Community.

In 1941, Mr. McCall was appointed as full-time City Manager of Plant City.

This was during a time when Plant City was growing rapidly in both population and area. Downtown, several municipal buildings were erected and the vitally important industrial waste-treatment plant was installed during Mr. McCall’s tenure.

Mr. McCall was the recipient of several awards such as the Good Government Award presented by the Jaycees. He held membership in the Florida City Manager’s Association and was a lifetime member of the International City Manager’s Association. He was involved in the Masonic Lodge and the Egypt Temple. Mr.

Lew J. Prosser

1900-1996 • Entrepreneur

Years ago, Lew James Prosser was considered one of Plant City’s largest citrus fruit growers.

He was also one of Plant City’s leading dealers in strawberries and produce. Mr. Prosser played a vital role in the development of the produce industry. Using his knowledge of both citrus and produce, he developed ways to prevent decay during the shipping and selling of each. At one time he was the third largest independent citrus shipper in the State of Florida. Mr. Prosser was also involved with opening the first citrus canning plant in Plant City. He is credited with assisting the strawberry industry in a variety of extremely important ways. He was also one of the first Directors of the First Federal Savings and Loan Association. Much of Mr. Prosser’s work is said to have “improved the overall economic health of the Plant City community.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 50

Theo “Mac” McCall Plant City Chief of Police

McCall was also recognized for helping to secure the Suncoast Council Girl Scouts Troop House at Mike Sansone Park, where it remains today. Downtown Plant City’s McCall Park, was named in honor of Mr. Theo “Mac” McCall.

Lew Prosser, 1968.

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Outstanding Citizen Ben Rawlins, 1968.

Ben Rawlins

S.E. Mays 1864-1932 • Mayor-Commissioner Samuel Edward Mays served on the Board of Public Works, as a City Councilman and later as the first Mayor-Commissioner of the City of Plant City. He is also said to be one of the City’s first merchants, operating a mercantile business in what was considered the town’s most “outstanding building” at its time. This building included a third floor that was used for both cultural and social functions. Mr. Mays was said to have also contributed to the beauty of downtown by constructing store buildings in a previously burned area. Involved in Plant City banking, Mr. Mays was not only listed among the Directors of the Bank of Plant City, he was also the Vice President of Hillsboro State Bank.

Additionally, Mr. Mays owned citrus groves, one of which was considered at the time to be the “finest in the state of Florida.” Mr. Mays was also an active member of the First Baptist Church.

1889-1974 • Community Leader In 1941, Mr. Rawlins, along with his wife, Lois, her brother and mother, purchased and began operating the Hotel Plant in downtown Plant City. Many wedding receptions, awards dinners and banquets were held at the Hotel Plant. Mr. Rawlins has also been credited with being a long time member of the Plant City Chamber of Commerce and the Plant City Merchants’ Association. He is credited with helping to get the State Farmers’ Market located in Plant City. An Ambassador of goodwill, Mr. Rawlins was highly involved in the Hillsborough County Fair and Strawberry Festival. In 1968, he was named Plant City’s Outstanding Citizen of the Year. He was politically involved and was even “affectionately known as

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 52

Mr. Democrat.” He was an active member of First United Methodist Church and belonged to several civic and fraternal organizations.

Peter Thomas

Founder

While less is known about Mr. Peter Thomas, what is known is the significant role he played in establishing the very town of Plant City. His family had actually “homesteaded” land that would later be sold to some of the first businessmen in Plant City. In addition, Mr. Thomas purchased land from his siblings that would later be subdivided and sold by him. This was important to the expansion efforts of the town. In 1892, Mr. Thomas became a member of Plant City’s town council. That same year, records show that he deeded over to the town property where Tomlin Junior High School was once located. The land would later become “City Hall block.”

NOTE:

Simeon Sparkman 1851-1939 â&#x20AC;˘ Public Servant In 1876, Mr. Simeon Sparkman first began his career in public service. While he was said to have â&#x20AC;&#x153;refused the office of Sheriff of Hillsborough County,â&#x20AC;? he did accept the office of County Tax Collector. He rode horseback to collect taxes across a broad area that at that time was considered Hillsborough County.

Mr. Sparkmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time in public office included both Hillsborough County Commissioner and also Hillsborough County Tax Assessor.

Word is that one day Mr. Sparkman was out in Dover planting potatoes when two men rode up on horseback to inform him that he had been elected to the State Legislature. Mr. Simeon Sparkman has been described as a man who possessed a great amount of kindness, compassion and great faith. He was also described as one who held public office with â&#x20AC;&#x153;honesty, courage and loyalty.â&#x20AC;?

Simeon Sparkman, Public Servant 1876-1932.

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Special thanks to Mr. David E. Bailey, Jr., Jerry Lofstrom, The Plant City Photo Archives, Staff at the Bruton Memorial Library, Florida Tree Source, City of Plant City and East Hillsborough Historical Society. Information for this article was obtained through personal interviews as well as from the pages of the book: Plant City Its Origin and History by Quintilla Geer Bruton and David E. Bailey, Jr., 1984.

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According to Jerry Lofstrom, a second phase of this project is planned. The following names will then be placed on the Collins Street side of the Whistle Stop CafĂŠ building: Mike Sansone, Dr. Olin S. Wright, L.E. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ratâ&#x20AC;? Morgan, David Crum, Dr. Richard Wells, Capt. Francis Merrin, W. B. Herring. We look forward to introducing you to these individuals in the very near future.

Additionally, preserving the rich history of Plant City is very important to us here at Focus Magazine. If you have stories, photos or facts, on any of the individuals listed that you would like to shareâ&#x20AC;Ś.we would love to hear from you!

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 58

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FOCUS Magazine plant city â&#x20AC;˘ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 60

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avid Brewington, Owner/ Operator of Brewington’s Towing, works hard each day to ensure he’s doing the right things with his business, his family, and helping within the community where he can. When I met Brewington to do this interview, the first thing he wanted to do was show me his grandson, Colby, who was watching television at the shop. What a great first impression – someone who recognizes how important family really is.

Focus: Have you always lived in Plant City?

Brewington: Yes. I’m a native. I’ve lived here all my life.

Focus: What were your parent’s names?

Brewington: My father’s name was Dillard and my mother’s name was Irene. My mother died in 1981 and my father died in 1987.

Focus: Do you have any brothers or sisters?

Brewington: Yes. I have three older sisters; Leslie, Jeanie and Carol.

Focus: Tell me about your immediate family.

Brewington: I have two sons, David Jr. (DJ) and Chris. DJ is 26 years old and has a wife Kristie and their son is Colby. My youngest son is Chris and he is 21 years old. My wife’s name is Diane.

Focus: When did Brewington’s begin doing business?

Brewington: Well, my father started the business in 1936. We had a service station on the corner of Baker and Collins and started the towing company about 20 years ago. We found that the two just went hand-in-hand. We seemed to get quite a few calls from

customers who were broken down and needed a tow back to the station. We had a GMC pickup truck. I think it was a 1973 GMC. We bought an electric boom for the truck. It had an electric wench and a cord with the controls on it. I think we paid a little more than $700.00 for it and had it mounted in the back of the GMC. We started towing customer’s vehicles and then we got AAA, but I don’t think we’ve had AAA for 15 years. If you’re a AAA customer, the service is great. But as an AAA contractor, there just isn’t enough return for the work and effort. But we probably represent 10 or 12 other motor clubs right now.

Today we have a landoll trailer that we can haul large vehicles on like school buses.

We have a drop-deck trailer that we can put heavier equipment on. It sits lower to the road so it allows the load to meet the DOT height requirements. We have five roll backs and a recovery truck which is out in an orange grove right now pulling out a bucket truck. We also have an air bag trailer that we use when tractor trailers roll over. We use the air bags to lift them back up. You put the air bags under the trailer and have a couple of wreckers on the other side.

Then you lift a little bit with the air bags and pull a little with the wreckers, and keep doing that until you get the trailer back upright. But we don’t use them that much because if a tractor trailer has rolled over, a lot of times the trailer is already busted open. The idea with the air bags is to lift the trailer to keep it in one piece. If it’s already busted open and has a load, when you lift the trailer up, it just comes apart. It just makes a bigger mess than if you took the time to unload it.

Focus: With 20 years of towing experience, I would imagine you’ve seen some unusual situations?

Brewington: Yeah. We were asked to lift a dead horse once and place it in a hole to be buried. I got a call from a farmer one Sunday morning.

He had a situation on Sam Allen Road that he needed some help with. He was driving a tractor and pulling a flatbed trailer with 4 porta-lets that fell into a deep ditch on the side of the road. I remember him asking me if I could get it out and I told him, “Yeah, I can get them out, but you’re hooking them up [to the truck.]” I also helped over at the airport once when two airplanes landed at the same time, one on top of the other.

Neither pilot saw one another, but they were matched up perfectly, just like one had been picked up and placed on top of the other. We lifted the top plane off the bottom plane, moved the bottom plane out of the way and then sat the top plane on the ground.

We’ve gotten some funny calls, too. We had a call once from a driver who had locked his keys in his car. We got there to find that the car was a convertible – with the top down – and the driver had had a little too much to drink. About a month ago we got a call from a customer with a vehicle here in town near City Hall. She said her remote to unlock her car wasn’t working and she didn’t understand why. It was a new car and she and her husband had tried it just a few days earlier and it worked. But she was calling her husband to activate the remote now and it wasn’t working. I asked her why she was calling her husband, and she said he was at home. I asked where she lived and she said Temple Terrace.

Spotlight Interview David Brewington Apparently, they thought the remote would work over any distance.

Focus: I understand you’ve been pretty involved in the community over the years?

Brewington: I’ve been a member of the Elks Lodge for 34 years. I’m a member of Northside Baptist Church.

I was President of the Plant City Dolphins several years ago. I got involved because of my two boys. I went to the city and I went to Richard Calhoun because he was on staff and I told him what I planned on doing and asked him if he would approach things the same way. I didn’t want to go before the City Commission and be butting heads with Richard.

So we went to the city together in regards to building the Plant City Dolphins football field. We started off asking people for donations, but people seemed reluctant to do that, so I regrouped and approached people to pay for specific portions of the project; trusses, cements, roof, doors.

We ended up with about a $150,000 - $200,000 building out there and we probably have about $30,000 invested in it. It worked out real well.

I was also President of the Plant City Jaycees.

Focus: What’s youre involvement with the Strawberry Festival?

Brewington: Gene Lyons has been a long-time friend of mine. Gene and I used to go to the races together and work them with the wreckers. I worked with him backstage [at the Festival], and of course one thing led to another. I remember one year there was a truck hauling all the band equipment and they had to go through the weight station here at Thonotosassa Road. The person driving didn’t have a CDL to take the truck through the scale so Gene called me and asked if I could drop what I was doing and go take the truck

through the scale. They were running behind and needed the equipment on stage ASAP. We also shuffle the entertainers back and forth from the airport when they need it. I have my wife and both of my sons, and my daughter-in-law involved. Diane and Kristie run two of the hospitality rooms at the stage.

We’ve gotten some funny calls, too. We had a call once from a driver who had locked his keys in his car. We got there to find that the car was a convertible...with the top down.

Focus: Tell me about the award you just received. How do you end up getting recognized on a national level?

Brewington: Kristie pushed us. We received the American Towman ACE Award for achievement in service performance. We have a lot of good equipment and a lot of good people working here and we always try to provide good service to our customers. We were judged based on the calls we receive and our response times to those calls. We make a living at it, but by the time you pay the people who work here, the equipment we have, the insurance and the fuel, if there’s anything left then we’ll go get something to eat. We just want a chance to earn your business. Give us an opportunity and we’ll work real hard to meet your needs.

Brewington is pretty modest when it comes to receiving recognition.

He didn’t even want to make the trip to receive the award and was going to send his son and daughterin-law instead. The award is given to those with the highest percentage of calls when the estimated time of arrival is achieved, consistency in response time, written appreciation from customers, and percentage of calls serviced – a direct reflection of their reliability and overall professionalism. Those receiving the ACE award rank in the top 1% of service providers in the nation, which is quite an accomplishment.

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This is a paid advertisement

Christmas Blessings from J & G Family Article by Angela Jones / Photos Courtesy of J & G Jewelers Another year is almost gone and Gladys Jones will enjoy reflecting on 2007 with family, friends, customers and future customers. For a brief history, Gladys has been in the jewelry business, in Plant City, for more than 40 years.

She began working for Bill Gunn Jewelers right after she graduated from Plant City High School. When Bill Gunn retired, she was encouraged by her husband, Jay, to open her own jewelry store. J & G Jewelers officially opened in 1983.

The year of 2007 has been an exciting and emotional year for everyone at J & G. Gladys lost her beloved mother at 88 in April, but welcomed a new member of the family, little Wesley Smith Pippin in July. He is the son of Gladys’ daughter and son-in-law Aimee and Sgt. Tony Pippin.

Gladys’ son Robbie, whom many of J & G’s customers remember due to his animated stories and jokes, returned home from serving in Iraq with the Army in late November. The entire Jones family is now in the USA for the first time in 2007.

J & G Jewelers operates as a full service jewelry store.

Gladys is a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America and handpicks all of the diamonds and

Some o fthe Jones Family with Santa

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 64

gemstones sold in the store. They continue to do repair work in the store, including changing batteries and bands on watches, welding chains, replacing lost gemstones and sizing rings. They also make custom items. Bill Bryan, a certified goldsmith, can work from a picture or drawing to make custom jewelry. J & G has a reputation for its handmade custom bows on gifts. Many customers have told Gladys that their families get excited when they see a gift wrapped by J & G with their name on it.

J & G carries a wide variety of items, with prices ranging from $10 into the thousands.

Gladys prides herself in stocking a variety of the world’s latest styles, including unusual gemstones, a rainbow variety of colored diamonds, designer sterling silver, Murano glass art pendants, rose gold, platinum, 10k and 14k yellow and white gold, and brand name watches. All of these selections come in rings, necklaces, pendants, earrings, brooches, bracelets, anklets, toe and thumb rings. Gladys says that the Circle of Love, the Journey diamond sets, colored

Gladys and Eric at the International Jewelry Show

gemstone sets, and Murano glass pieces are the most popular items this Christmas season.

Gladys and two of the store’s buyers, Angela Jones and Eric Barber, enjoy traveling to jewelry shows around the country to find the latest jewelry fashions, gift ideas, and unique packaging for gifts. J & G has a curio cabinet full of Limoges’ style trinket boxes of all types along with the fine jewelry collection.

The Jones family enjoys helping others in the community. They are supportive of all our country’s heroes. J & G donates to various programs, including local churches, schools, civic organizations and social service agencies.

Robbie, Will, and Tony

J & G Jewelers has been very successful over the years and it is definitely a family-run business with everyone playing a role in its success.

The immediate family members working at the business include Jay, who retired from CXSI in 2006. Several people work at J & G part time, in addition to their full-time jobs, including their daughter Angela, who is Program Supervisor at Peace River Center in Polk County. Tony and Aimee Pippin will be helping out during the holidays while Tony is on leave from the Army.

In addition to the immediate family, Carroll and Wilma Spencer, Nonie Roberts, Debbie Chitwood, Sandy Hawthorne, and Eric Barber round out the crew.

Gladys and Eric

Gladys enjoys visiting and talking to people every day in the store. She believes the people in Plant City have been good to her and she attempts to repay customers with quality jewelry and gift items at affordable prices.

Gladys says, “The Plant City community has been like an extended part of my family.

Everyone has helped and supported me so much through the years. I would like to thank you and God bless.”

Her motto for 2008 is, “Live your life as completely as you can. You never know what tomorrow will bring.”

Wesley and Santa

Sally and Robbie

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 65

history didyouknow

submit ted by P lant City P hoto A rc hi ves

send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

Plant City Photo Archives’ Exhibit

Drawings By Army Artists Of World War I In November 2007 the Plant City Photo Archives received 193 prints of artistic renderings drawn by a group of eight Army officers specifically commissioned to draw their observations of the war in Europe in 1918, which later became known as World War I. Here is the story behind the Army Artists of WWI. With the outbreak of war in Europe in 1914, an apprehensive gloom fell over the country; it spread throughout Plant City, too.

Plant City’s response to the growing threat came in June 1916, when the Plant City Rifles, numbering about 80, with a school band and a parade, headed off to the state mobilization camp.

On April 2, 1917, President Wilson urged Congress to declare against Germany, and America went to war “over there”.

For the first time professional artists and illustrators were specifically commissioned to produce images of the battlefield during the fighting. In May of 1917 the Army commissioned eight professional artists and attached the captains to the Corps of Engineers, with the sole duty to record the activities of the American Expeditionary Forces in France.

By the end of the war, November 11, 1918, the artists had produced nearly 500 pieces of art.

The collection is now housed in the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History.

George Matthews Harding (1882 – 1959) His magazine illustrations appeared in the Saturday Evening Post and Harper’s, and he taught fine arts at the University of Pennsylvania.

Wallace Morgan (1875 – 1948)

The eight artists of the historic group are: William James Aylward, Walter Jack Duncan, Harvey Thomas Dunn, George Matthews Harding, Wallace Morgan, Ernest Clifford Peixotto, J. Andre Smith, and Harry Everett Townsend.

William James Aylward (1875 – 1956) Aylward worked for magazines such as Harper’s and Scribner’s. He also appeared in illustrated editions of Jules Verne’s Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea and Jack London’s Sea Wolf.

Walter Jack Duncan (1881 – 1941) Duncan studied art in New York and began his career of magazine illustration with Century Magazine and later with Scribner’s, Harper’s, and McClure’s Magazine.

Harvey Thomas Dunn (1884 – 1952) Dunn studied at the Art Institute of Chicago and Howard Pyle and there he met other future AEF artists William Aylward and Ernest Peixotto.

After studying at the National Academy of Design, Morgan became a full-time newspaper artist with the New York Herald. His illustrations also later appeared in Collier’s magazine.

Ernest Clifford Peixotto (1869 – 1940) Peixotto studied painting at the School of Fine Arts at the Mark Hopkins Institute in his hometown of San Francisco, and later traveled to France where he toured and sketched the French countryside.

J. Andre Smith (1880 – 1959) He studied architecture at Cornell, 1898-1902, and received a master’s degree in 1904. After a stint in Europe, Smith worked for an architectural form in New York City and studied etching and drawing.

Harry Everett Townsend (1879 – 1941) He studied with the renowned illustrator Howard Pyle and Townsend’s illustrations appeared in magazines such as Harper’s, Century, Everybody’s, and McClure’s as well as a number of books.

A battery of French 75s shelling the Germans on the ridge to the left of Chateau Thierry. 1918. Walter Jack Duncan.

All 193 drawings, along with 17 photographs, dating to 1918 will be on display in a future exhibit at the Plant City Photo Archives, 119 North Collins Street, in historic downtown Plant City.

Sources: Quintilla Bruton and David E. Bailey, Jr., Plant City; Its Origin and History, 1984; U.S. Army Center of Military History, CMH Pub 70-52, Army Art In World War I; Plant City Photo Archives, Wayne Fieler, Charlotte, North Carolina.

Infantrymen. 1918. Harry Everett Townsend.

Mopping Up Cierges. 1918. Wallace Morgan.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 66

67

HOME GUIDE P C AT

OMSTOCK

GRI, Full Time Realtor Multi-Million Dollar Producer 813-759-9449 patcomstock@msn.com www.patcomstock1.com 1607 S. Alexander Street Suite 102 s

“Even in Today’s Real Estate Climate, I closed $1.12 million in sales volume for the month of September!” my s Realty handle the listing and sale of Having Pat Comstock of Keller William New tate ups in ns I made. I have been a realtor property was one of the best decisio can I rs. yea many other agents over the York for 22 years, and have dealt with list. essionalism puts her at the top of the prof honestly say that Pat’s dedication and soft a in n Eve re and her hard work paid off.

Pat gave my property instant exposu d a probthe closing, whenever we encountere market, she found a buyer. Prior to feedback, me ng givi lved. Pat was constantly lem, Pat met it head on and it was reso another sell or buy to the closing. If I decide to and communicated with me right up to Pat Comstock! property, my first phone call will be - D.K. Tooley process and made the first time home buying “Pat was very thorough, knowledgable, able. fort com feel t out of her way to make me a breeze. She was nice, caring and wen I appreciate all she did for me” -K. Cole ely withwould not have been fulfilled complet “Without a doubt, our house hunting .” of work and your friendship. out you. Thanks for the many hours -D. Long

93

KET

ELOW MAR

REDUCED B

CONSERVATION LOT IN WALDEN LAKE BR/2 BA, 1836 S/F, built in 1997 $215,000

REDUCED

PARK-LIKE BACKYARD!

3 BR/2 BA, 1874 s/f, model perfect $225,000

REDUCED

SWIM ALL YEAR

3 BR/2 BA, 1829 S/F, solar htd pool $259,900 NS

ESTRICTIO

NO DEED R

GET AWAY FROM IT ALL! Luxurious new 4 BR/2BA, 2,700 s/f, upgrades galore, 3 car garage, 1.01 acres $369,000 (under recent appraisal)

List Your Home With Pat and Receive

$1000 OFF closing costs!

New Listings Only Valid from 10/15/07 thru 12/31/07

ATTENTION AGENTS! Looking for a change? Call me. $1.6 million in closed sales BUYERS: July-Sept, ‘07 since making the move to Keller Williams. Coincidence? I don’t think so!

Free Buyer Representation!

We welcome Renee Corzine to Keller Williams!

FOCUS Magazine plant city • december 15 - january 15 • Page 67

Sam Clark Realtor®

WALDEN LAKE Pool home, 4 bedroom/3 bath on a corner lot in Forest Club. Home features fireplace in family room and lots of tile.

Just $272,900. MLS #T2275424.

Call Jean Bridgmon, 813-478-3107.

ONE ACRE

On a dead end street, this 3 bedroom/2 bath home has been completely updated with new kitchen with granite countertops and oak cabinets. Screened patio overlooks lots of oaks and no back yard neighbors.

A must see at $270,000. MLS #T2272776.

Call Jean Bridgmon, 813-478-3107.

ENJOY COUNTRY LIVING

Classic two-story, 4 bedroom/2 bath home with over 1800 square feet on a secluded 6 acre ranch. Includes barn with 6 horse stalls. Priced to sell. No back yard neighbors.

Sold As-Is. Offered at $299,900. MLS #T2277924.

Call Jimmie Robinson, 813-390-6441.

Robb Lusk

Broker-Associate

CUTE HOME - GREAT LOCATION!

Brenda Herring Realtor®

Roger Burrage Realtor®

You’ll love this darling 50’s home! 3/2 with hardwood floors, paneled family room, bright living room, 2 fireplaces, screened porch, fenced yard. Original tile in bathrooms! Quiet street with well-cared for homes; close to town but still private. All appliances, including washer & dryer. Offered at $174,402.

Call Lynne Halleran, 813-763-1881.

CUSTOM COUNTRY HOME ON 1 ACRE

Gorgeous 3/2 custom home in cul-de-sac. Immaculate inside & out! Details include brick hearth in kitchen, hardwood, tile & berber carpet, oversized screened lanai, oversized 2-car garage w/room for a workshop, attic w/ flooring, garden tub & walk-in shower in master bath. You’ll love it! Offered at $324,838.

MLS #T2284607. Call Lynne Halleran, 813-763-1881.

LAUREL LAKE

Spectacular sunsets, lakefront and golf course view!

Classy 2/2/2 features open living/dining, split bedrooms, inside laundry efficient kitchen and lanai. Single family detached “Condo” located in private gated community within Walden Lake. Offered at $239,900.

MLS #T2281394. Call Maddie Alford, 813-382-8382 to preview.

HISTORIC DISTRICT Beautiful 3 bedroom/2 bathroom home with hardwood floors, central heat/air, two buildings for workshops and storage for boat or RV. Very clean, owner is downsizing from the 1980 square feet. Priced below recent appraisal. Offered at $197,500. MLS #T2274543.

Call Jimmie Robinson, 813-390-6441.

Realtor®

Realtor®

WALDEN LAKE

Great location, great community for carefree living. 2 bedrooms plus den (could be 3rd bedroom), fireplace in family/ kitchen combination, very clean, enclosed Lanai for extra square footage and living area. Larger unit in Walden Oaks.

Walden Oaks is a member of Walden Lake and has access to parks, trails, lake, dock, tennis and golf course for additional fees. Priced to sell. Offered at $179,900.

MLS #T2254914. Call Jimmie Robinson, 813-390-6441.

The Plant City office would like to wish you the brightest and best of Christmas and a prosperous New Year! We appreciate your business and look forward to serving your Real Estate needs in 2008!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Maddie Alford

Cathi Cooper

BE A GENTLEMAN FARMER!

Have a big family? Like to entertain? Here’s the place you’ve been dreaming about. 3100+ square feet main house with 3 BR/2.5 BA, gourmet kitchen & unbelievable Master Suite; 2 separate guest suites, 4-car garage, 1200 square foot game room, 8-stall barn on 5 fenced, gated acres. Majestic oaks, professional landscaping. Outdoor kitchen, waterfall and gas fire pit. No deed restrictions!

MLS #T2272441. Call Lynne Halleran, 813-763-1881 or Jimmie Robinson, 813-390-6441.

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

STAFFORD ROAD

Country home on 1.23 fenced acres. 3/2/3 custom built in 1996 open floor plan, “real” wood flooring, eat-in kitchen/dining, 30 X 10 covered lanai and patio.

Limited deed restrictions and no HOA! Area of nice homes and ranches.

Offered at $ 234,900. MLS #T2227601.

Call Maddie Alford at 813-382-8383.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

2+ acres completely fenced, Zoned C-1. 3800+ Square Feet building could be used as office, medical, attorney, etc. Think of the possibilities. Building has been completely remodeled to code.

Newly painted through out, new Berber carpet, property newly landscaped and ready for turn key operation. Plenty of parking.

Located across from Tomlin Middle School and near the Strawberry Festival Grounds. Over 300 feet frontage on US-92. Will lease for $4,900/month. SELLER MOTIVATED - BRING OFFERS. Offered at $560,000. MLS #T2265974.

Call Robb Lusk, 813-967-5107.

WALDEN LAKE

Completely redone inside with new carpet, updated kitchen, tile flooring. Garage has tile flooring, work area and room for two cars. All appliances convey and some excellent furniture left for new buyer. Priced to sell.

Offered at $219,900. MLS #T2265954.

Call Jimmie Robinson, 813-390-6441.

Jean Bridgmon, GRI, CRS Realtor® "ROKER !SSOCIATE

Teresa Smith Realtor®

LAKEFRONT/ GOLFCOURSE BEAUTY!

This 3000 square foot home has 4 bedrooms and 3 baths plus pool with spa. From the moment you arrive at the landscaped yard to the majestic view of the lake and golf course, you’ll be impressed. This home has been completely remodeled with new front entrance, extended family room, crown molding, fireplace, zoned A/C, new wet bar and cabinets on the lanai and a surround sound system. If you are looking for the new home alternative, this is it! It’s in “move-in” condition.

Offered at $425,000. MLS #T2221977.

Call Jimmie Robinson, 813-390-6441.

YOUR LAND SEARCH IS OVER!

This desirable property features well, septic, electric and satellite dish. Fenced pasture welcomes livestock. 2.53 acres offers a country setting that is ready for you to make it home.

Priced to sell at $149,900. MLS #T2282505.

Call Janet Moore at 813-754-9890.

GORGEOUS HOME SITE

Build the home of your dreams on this 1.68 acre country home site. Situated between 2 beautiful newer homes, this exceptional property requires a minimum 2,000 square foot home to be constructed (no mobile or manufactured homes). Located about a mile from I-4 with easy access and only minutes from downtown Plant City.

Offered at $112,500. MLS# T2253074.

Call Janet Moore at 813-754-9890.

Janet Lynn Moore Realtor®

COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE, PLANT CITY

Mitchell & Malissa Crawford

WELCOMES

Terry & Lorrie Sobzak

Lynne Halleran Realtor®

Please give them a call at THEIR new home! 813-754-3586

YOUR PERFECT PARTNER • FULL SERVICE • CLIENT FOCUSED

Jimmie Robinson

Realtor® s "ROKER !SSOCIATE

Call us for your Residential and Commercial Real Estate needs

1513 Jim Redman Parkway, Plant City RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

813-754-3586

Ken Lawrence Realtor®

#1 Plant City Real Estate Company ...and still growing!

GREAT INVESTMENT PROPERTY Duplex in Lakeland for $159,900, 2 2 BR/1 BA units. Fresh paint. And Ready to make you money. This is the perfect time to invest. Low maintenance, not a lot of up keep. Call and make an Offer, Let your money work for you. Close to I-4 and Short Drive To down town. Central AC/heat.

Call Chris Robinson (813) 763-4513

PRIVACY ON YOUR OWN ACRE! 3/2/2/Office and Pool. Formal Living, Formal Dining, Kitchen overlooking Family Rm. Heated Pool and Spa. Interior Laundry. Garage door opener and Keyless entry. Alarm system. Mature oaks. Have it made in the shade! $349,900 Call Brenda Salyers @ 813-230-1120

GORGEOUS REMODELED BUNGALOW Everything has been done! NEW kitchen w/all NEW appliances, New bathrooms, NEW windows, NEW roof, NEW air conditioner, NEW wiring, NEW plumbing, NEW flooring, even NEW washer & dryer. Pack your bags and move right in to this convenient in town location. Offered for $159,900 Call Natalie Sweet 758-9586.

JUST RIGHT FOR YOU THE PERFECT STARTER HOME 2BR/1BA WITH BONUS ROOM. Totally Remodeled, new roof, new A/C, new wood floors, new appliances, new tile and new carpet in bedrooms.

Orange trees in big backyard, plus 6 ft wood privacy fence. This is a great gift for the holidays. $134,900 Call Chris Robinson (813) 763-4513

SPLIT BEDRM WITH MASTER BEDRM DOWNSTAIRS Grand two story foyer. Living room with fireplace stretching to second story ceiling. Loft overlooks living rm & foyer. Pool & Lanai. Guest house; 16x50 motorhome shed; 20x30 shed; Office; Loft. Lots to see! $379,000 Call Brenda Salyers @ 813-230-1120

EAST WALDEN LAKE Incredible price for this spacious 3 bed/2 bath home with 1594 Sq.Ft.La. Nicely shaded and fenced yard, screened lania, great landscaping and sprinkler system. Wood laminate flooring, wood burning stone fireplace and vaulted ceilings. Awesome value in Walden Lake and priced at only $178,900.

Shelton Keely @ (813) 503-0999

THE PRICE IS RIGHT $89,900 2BR/1BA With detached 2 car garage or workshop. Needs some TLC FROM YOU. Garage has a new roof. Lots of new plants in the front and backyard. Home is priced well below appraisal; Don’t miss this opportunity to buy a great home. MOTIVATED SELLER, MAKE AN OFFER Call Chris Robinson (813) 763-4513

FRONT PORCH PERFECT FOR ROCKERS! Pristine 3/3/3 with Pool on 1.13 acres. Custom kitchen with granite. Fireplace. Luxurious master suie, Hardwood floors, Front porch that stretches across front of house. See additional pictures at www.BrendaSalyers.com. This house will Wow you! $395,000.

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS This 3/2 one-owner home has been lovingly cared for. It boasts new laminate & tile floors. Spacious EAT IN kitchen. Walk-in closet in master bedroom. Storage, storage w/pull-down stair attic access.Conveniently located to downtown Plant City.

Call Jayne Rawnsley (813) 763-0495

PARADISE IN WALDEN LAKE You will just love this Great Room Home with 3 Bedrooms plus a Den/Office on a quiet Conservation Lot. This home features an enormous screened and paver patio with a beautiful spa with waterfall for that outdoor living, large Bedrooms and 2 full Baths. Priced to sell at only $254,900 Call Angel Miller (813) 546-9863

HOMES FOR LEASE Condo’s 2br 1-1/2 ba starting at $750.00 Almost new home 3/2 $1150 Country Home 2br /1ba $850.00 Walden Lake Homes 3br/ 2ba $1200 Walden Lake Condo 2br /2ba $1200 Cedar Run Condo 2br/2ba $875.00 Looking for a property manager for your home?

Call Becky @ 813-376-2100

CHECK OUT THIS 1 YEAR “NEW 4 bedrooms 2 1/2 Bathrooms with tons of space MLS#T2275882 Call Davy Miles @ (813) 376-4444

1607 S. Alexander Street

813-759-1200

Call Brenda Salyers @ 813-230-1120

Nicole Adams

Team Leader / Managing Broker

Lorraine Bennett Becky Bowdish Carol Brassart Joe Bryant Janet Calvello Terri Carroll Cathy Casey

Sue Daniels C.W. Davis Charles Davis Eva Driggs Valrie Dunkley Nick Ganey Brenda Garwood

Ron Johns Shelton Kelly Carrie Lang Barbara Layton Darla Little Cathy Martin Dena Martin

Angel Miller Bobbie Ehrenfeld Sharon Ours Jayne Rawnsley Bobbie Revels Amy Reynolds Chris Robinson

Nancy Stephens Dan Stratton Natalie Sweet Tracey Thompson Paolo Vargas John Walmsley Jackie Wyckoff e

1+ Acr

WALDEN LAKE CHARMER …at an affordable price! Bright and cheery 3 bedroom, 2 bath home. Great Room plan, volume ceilings, tile and wood floors in living areas. Large, shaded, and fenced back yard! You gotta see this one! ML # T2270387. Great price at $170,000.

Call Bob Adams (813) 817-4829

BEAUTIFUL 1996 FLEETWOOD MANUFACTURED HOME acre in the rural community of Holloman Branch Estates.

Home has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, new carpet, new tile, covered front porch and is fenced. It’s a great place and ready to move into!!

Call Joe Bryant @ 813-967-1875

NEED THAT COUNTRY FEEL? Appreciate this Custom Home on 1+ Acre in fabulous Bucolic Plant City. Sit on the Elegant Front Porch & experience Breathtaking Views of Equestrian Pastures & Morning Sunrises. Convenient to Shopping, Schools & Major Roads. Buyer will experience Country Ambiance with City Access. Soaring Cathedral Ceilings & fine Decorator Touches make this an Enviable Home. Completely fenced to protect the Kiddies & Pets... an Efficient “Workshop” (shed) with Electricity awaits the Handy Man! Worthy of the Fussy Buyer’s Attention.

Call Barbara Jean Kulyk @ 813-781-1915

WALDEN LAKE POOL HOME Great price for a 4 BR/2 BA pool home in beautiful Walden Lake! 1822 s/f living area, split bedroom plan, garden tub & sep shower in m. bath, kitchen opens to family room, & more. $244,900 Call Pat Comstock (813)759-9449

BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME! Beautiful 1.3 acre lot with hilltop view and small pond on highly desirable Varn Rd. Survey and deed restrictions available. Price reduced to $99,900!

Call Cathy Martin @ 813-376-0891

GREAT 2 STORY HOME BUILT IN 2005 3 large bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2,306 sq. heated ft. Lots of upgrades. Priced at $325,000.

Call Cathy Casey (813) 727-4131

TWO MASTER SUITES! Custom built home with hardwood flooring, Large front porch, screened covered back porch. Has 3 bedrooms but could be 4 or 5 with a few walls. Two car garage And a 3 car carport with enclosed section for workshop! Custom kitchen.

Call Brenda Salyers @ 813-230-1120

COUNTRY LUXURY! Gorgeous new home, 4 BR/2 BA, approx 2700 s/f living area, granite countertops in kitchen and baths, 18” tile, 42” wood cabinets, 3 car side entry garage, 1.01 acres. No homeowner association or deed restrictions. $369,000 Call Pat Comstock (813) 759-9449

THIS LIKE NEW 5 bedrooms 3 baths,huge fenced backyard located in Plant City. $254,900 Call Davy Miles @ (813) 376-4444

DO YOU NEED A REALTOR???

I am available to assist you in buying or selling. Relocating to my “roots” I have returned to the area to be nearer family and friends of a lifetime. Plant City native of six generations. Call for an appointment to review your needs. Experienced professional through the up and down markets over 28 yrs.

Call Sue Daniels @ (813) 751-4035

Pat Comstock Melissa Connell Renee Corzine

Trenda Gude Tammy Jenkins Larry Jimenez

00

ED

REDUC

$184,9

COME TO THE COUNTRY! 1998 3/2/2 on 1.34 acres located in Lithia. Bring the family and pets! Ready to move in! $289,900.

Call Darla Little (813) 478-4317

Arita McFayden Mac McGrath David Miles

AFFORDABLE PRICE…TERRIFIC NEIGHBORHOOD Newer 3/2/2 in PC features beautiful ceramic tile, cathedral ceilings, drinking water system and new 30-year roof. Very well cared for home!

Call Lorraine Bennett @ (813) 716-3997

Brenda Salyers David Scruggs Patricia Smith

Barbara Jean Kulyk Lori O’Hearn Smith Sarah Zeller-Badat

I GUARANTEE that you will not be disappointed 100% Financing with Rates in the 6’s FHA Loans – AMAZING RATES

Mobile Home Loans

Private Money Loans

97% Purchase

97% Purchase, 30 year amortization

No credit score minimums

95% Cash out refinance

95% Cash out refinance

Mobile Homes

Down to 530 credit

Investor Purchase – Rates in the 6’s

Mobile Home Loans

90% Purchase

VA Loans

Home Equity Line of Credit

100% Financing

No Closing Costs, no appraisal fee!

Stated Income Loans

Foreclosure Bailout Loans Land/Lot Loans Up to 100% Financing on Raw Land!

First Time Home Buyer Loans

Construction to Permanent Financing

95% Purchase

One closing, saving you $$ money $$

95% Refinance

Jumbo Loans

Concerned about down payments?

We offer 100% financing that requires $0 down payment with rates in the 6’s.

Concerned about your credit?

We offer FREE credit repair. I will give you SPECIFIC steps on EXACTLY how to boost your scores. You will not get the “Work on your credit” response without receiving exact instructions.

We are FHA approved. This means that we have access to loan programs that are NOT credit score driven. Last month we helped someone with a 530 credit score purchase their first home. The only needed 3% down.

That 3% was provided to them as a gift from family member. They literally had $0 of their own money into the purchase.

What about closing costs?

Our loan programs allow the seller to pay up to 6% of the purchase price towards your closing costs. This is more than enough to cover your expenses. In this market, many sellers are more willing to offer this concession.

Can you do Mobile Homes?

Yes we can.

We can help you purchase a mobile home with only 3% down We can also refinance an existing mobile home up to 95% of the value. This is great for consolidating debts and pulling cash out. You can end up with just one monthly bill.

Happy Holidays, from our family to yours!

Call today for a FREE consultation

813-763-3910

En Español: 813-478-4756

w nothing from Plant City who kne n buy one.

“I am just a simple guy a house or if I could eve ing buy of s ces pro Nate about the ect. exp to t wha and didn’t know ing I was very intimidated made good on everyth and I and ily fam my made it easy for e.“ he said. Thanks Nat - Brian Doty, Plant City “With the mortgage cra sh this summer we tho ught we would have lost our dream hom e. Not with Nate on our side. This man works wonders. He was able to find the type of mortgage at the rate we needed. Nat e worked well over wha t you would call overtime to make sure we got our mortgage.

I recommend him to anybody, anytime.”

- Butch and Susin Tipp ie, Plant City

“I have done business with Nate in the past. I continue to do business with him because I know that he will do what is in my best interest and not just his own. As a matter of fact, I called Nate for a loan last month and he advised me of a better alternative to obtaining a piece if property that did not require his loan! This is why I feel 100% confident with his suggestions.

Nate looks out for the customer’s best interest and not just his own. I wish there were more business professionals with this type of uncompromising integrity.”

- Mark Phaneuf, Lakeland king this a pleasant first

with your help ma “Thanks you so much ” home buying experience nt City - Amanda Martinez, Pla

CALL NATE DAVIS Mortgage Consultant

(813) 763-3910 Office Located In Plant City

www.PlantCityMortgages.com

GO TO WWW.PLANTCITYMORTGAGES.COM AND REQUEST YOUR COPY OF A FREE REPORT THAT REVEALS THIS FACTORS THAT ARE CONSIDERED WHEN DETERMINING YOUR INTEREST RATE.

For “Another Sweet Sale” Call 813-758-9586. Call Us For All Your Real Estate Needs!

COUNTRY LIVING CUSTOM HOME

STUNNING GOLF COURSE HOME

This 4Bdr/3 Bath home is an entertainer’s delight w/an open floor plan, huge lanai & oversized screened pool area. 3-way split Bedroom plan perfect for teens or in-laws. 4th Bdr has den.

Gourmet Kitchen w/Granite Countertops, Stainless Appliances, 42” Cabinets. $450,000 Call Angel 546-9863

The minute you walk in, you’ll notice the pride of ownership in this well maintained 2800 sq’ 4 Bedroom 3 Bath Home w/3 Car Garage. Kitchen & Baths all have Granite Countertops. Larger Family Room w/Fireplace, Heated Pool & Spa and lush Landscaping frame this marvelous home. $405,000 Call Natalie 813-758-9586

CHARMING GOLF COURSE HOME

WALDEN LAKE MODEL PERFECT

MOVE IN READY

Live the fine life in the prestigious Aston Woods neighborhood in Walden Lake. The lovely landscaped setting sets the stage as you enter this wonderful 3 bedroom, 2 bath home, great room floor plan with formal dining room and large kitchen w/center island. $309,900 Call Natalie 758-9586.

You’ll love the colors in this wonderully decorated home.

Over 2600 sq’ with 4 large Bedrooms, 2 1/2 Baths and huge bonus room. Recently pained outside, fenced & large screened lanai with gorgeous yard. $298,900.

Call Natalie 758-9586.

You’ll fall in LOVE w/this beautifully remodeled home. Master Suite features a built-in window seat & designer Master Bath w/gorgeous tile. Huge Great Room, all new Tile & Appliances in Kitchen. Huge Lanai for entertaining. Fenced Yard. Truly a MUST SEE! $210,000 Call Carrie Lang 813-767-3459

GREAT HOME CLOSE TO EVERYTHING

GREAT HOME GREAT LOCATION

WALDEN LAKE FOR $175,000!

3 Bedroom, 2 Bath w/out deed restrictions in quiet neighborhood. Almost 1800 sq’ w/over sized screed patio w/brick pavers & heated spa. Large in town lot. $190,000 Call Natalie Sweet 758-9586.

ALMOST 2000 SQ’ UNDER $100,000!

Don’t let the price fool you. This is a Great Opportunity to own a nice home w/a pool in a great quiet location.

Featuring 3 large bedrooms, 2 baths, formal living & dining rooms, plus family room. Screened porch & pool w/ large deck. Ready & waiting for YOU!

Welcome to this 3-4 Bedroom Home w/2 Baths, Huge Great Room, Nice Yard w/Utility Shed & almost new Roof. This home has been very lovingly cared for by it’s owners. $189,900 Call Natalie for more details!

THE PRICE IS RIGHT

This house blows away the others! Priced to sell & competes for your attention in this market! Over 2700 SW’ Featuring 4 large Bedrooms, 3 Baths, enormous Kitchen w/Granite. The Custom Trim & Woodworking is worthy of only the finest homes. $300,000 Call Angel at 546-9863

WALDEN LAKE ASTON WOODS

4 bedroom, 3 bath custom Home w/large kitchen open to family room w/fireplace. Large master suite with walk in closet, jetted tub & double sinks. Formal living & dining rooms. Pool & Spa. Don’t miss this one! Newly listed for only $325,000. Call Natalie at 813-758-9586.

Charming 3 bedroom 2 bath home with great room & 2 car garage on beatiful corner lot. Enjoy the screened lanai and the front porch with swing. Don’t let the price fool you, this is a great home!

Call Angel 546-9863.

GATED HAMPTON PLACE

Stretch out with over 2900 sq’ & 3/4 Acre lot on the golf course. 4 large bedrooms & office, gorgeous master suite with sitting room.

The kitchen features a huge pantry, granite countertops, 42” Cherry Cabinets & wrap around breakfast bar. Bathrooms have upgraded tile. Call Natalie Today to see this BEAUTY! 758-9586

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 74

RENEE CORZINE Realtor

$185,000 WALDEN LAKE VILLA 3/2/2 villa. Ceramic tile and carpet.

Air-conditioned Florida Room 33â&#x20AC;&#x2122;x12â&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

$155,000 PRIVATE BACK YARD

EXQUISITE WALDEN LAKE HOME 4/2/2, 2374 SF, Granite, New Roof, Fireplace, Lg Lanai

rcorzine@tampabay.rr.com

4/2/2, 1924 SF, Scrnd Pool, Conservation, SHORT SALE!

$279,000

$184,900

FISHHAWK

PRESERVE AT SUNDANCE

4/3/3, 2159 SF, Screened Under-Roof Lanai.

3+Den/2/2, 1802 SF, Scrnd Lanai, Pond.

1607 S. Alexander Street Suite 102 s

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LOCATION GREAT TAMPA

ABSOLUTE DOLL HOUSE!

3 & 2%-/$%,%$ +)4#(%. "!4(

NO DOWN PAYMENT

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COUNTRY LUXURY! "2 "!

APPROX S F GRANITE COUNTERTOPS IN kitchen and baths, 18â&#x20AC;? tile & hardwood, $369,000

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PAT COMSTOCK

813-716-6007

GORGEOUS SUNSETS OVER POND

3/2/1, 1236 SF, Wood Floor, Fam Rm, Lanai, Fenced

$319,000

Multi-Million Dollar Producer

$225,000

GRI, Realtor Multi-Million Dollar Producer

813-759-9449

patcomstock@msn.com

3 !LEXANDER 3TREET s 3UITE s

List Your Home With Pat and Receive

$1000 OFF closing costs! .EW ,ISTINGS /NLY EXPIRES

LEE BUILDING

Full Service Lease Offered Which Includes: 2ECEPTIONIST s +ITCHENETTE Conference Rooms .ORTEL 0HONE 3YSTEM

MOODY BUILDING

5TILITIES s /N 3ITE -ANAGEMENT *ANITORIAL 3ERVICES s &REE 0ARKING Single Executive Offices Start at $450 per month %AST 2EYNOLDS 3T s 0LANT #ITY &,

813.752.5262

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FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;¢ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;¢ Page 77

homes homeguide

su bmitted by n ata l i e sw e et

Walden Lake Review Well, it’s the end of the year and the weather is cooling off. It’s time for the Walden Lake residents to enjoy the park, lake and the miles of trails and amenities this community offers.

The park is private property, is owned by the Community Association and is for Members only. You must have a sticker to park at the lake area or you will get a nasty orange sticker that is very hard to remove. There have been many complaints about the orange stickers but it is the association’s right to notify you that you do not have the right to park there and to have cars towed if you do not have a community sticker.

If you are a member and you have a guest, please have them meet you at your home and ride with you to the park. New stickers will be going out with your annual bills. If you have more than two vehicles, you can purchase additional stickers at the Walden Lake Community Association office.

The neighborhood entrances are beautifully decked out for the holiday season. It will be a judging nightmare to decide which communities have the best decorations. We will announce

the winning neighborhoods in the next Focus issue.

memberships without any initiation fees at this time.

The Walden Lake Board of Directors meets the 2nd Monday of each month. All Walden Lake members are welcome to come to the meetings. If you have something you would like addressed at the meetings, please call the association office at 813-754-8999.

Two events are planned over the next month.

There will be a Christmas Buffet on December 20th with a wonderful menu. Also, there is a New Year’s Eve Party planned starting at 8:00 p.m. until 2:00 a.m. You will enjoy live entertainment with appetizers, salad and a plated surf and turf dinner. The cost is $50 per couple for members and $75 per couple for non-members.

I spoke with Steve Mercer, the General Manager of Walden Lake Golf & Country Club and I asked him about rumors that the club is in trouble. He tells me that renovations are still planned for the course, tennis courts, pool, workout room, and clubhouse.

They are waiting on finalization of an SBA loan. Most of the work to secure the loan has been done, such as the appraisal, survey, and title work. He is confident the loan will be secured. Once the loan is secured, he said we should see many changes happening. The cost for a membership has increased due to higher fuel costs and higher insurance costs, but is still a very good value. They are offering new

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 78

Billy Kagel, the director of special events and functions at WLG&CC reminds you to book your fundraising Golf Tournaments and Special Events as soon as you have a date in mind.

Members and non-members are welcome to book functions at the clubhouse, pool, golf course etc. Call Billy at 813-753-1171, extension 222, to book an appointment to discuss your needs.

The Walden Lake Board wishes everyone a Happy Holiday and a very Happy New Year.

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PRICE

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This beautiful 3/2 bath home is in the gated golf community of Imperial Lakes and offers all the amenities. Well maintained and move in ready. Bring all offers seller is highly motivated.

BEAUTIFUL LAKEVIEW HOME

PRICE

with a pool in the desirable Hammocks subdivision in Walden Lake. Updates throughout including new kitchen appliances, new carpet and flooring, and new interior and exterior paint, all in neutral colors.

N LOT VATIO

GREAT PRICE

R CONSE

This 5 bedroom 4 bath home is located in the desirable Walden Lake community. With over 3200 sq ft, this home is ready for a family! Featuring new paint throughout and all the upgrades, this house is one of the best in town!

813.763.5676 1607 S. Alexander Street Suite 102 Plant City, FL

LOOKING FOR A GREAT RENTAL IN WALDEN LAKE?

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This 4/2 home located on a great corner lot offers a great floor plan.

Boasting Mexican tile throughout, neutral paint colors and a split floor plan, this home has it all. Don’t miss this one.

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 79

We Build On Your Lot Or Ours

We Build Your Floor Plan Or Ours

Hurry in...ONLY 7 lots left in Southern Meadows to choose from.

SPRINGFIELD OFF SPARKMAN RD $69,900

SOUTHERN MEADOWS OFF TURKEY CREEK 1 Mile From Walden Lake

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FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 80

2 HOMES ON COUNTRY LANE!

Beautifully maintained 3Bd/2Ba, DW-completely remodeled offers everything you need! Enjoy 2nd SW - 2Bd/1Ba-shows great for rental or in-laws!

Also garage, office & 2 sheds a great value on quiet country retreat located on gorgeous 1.19 acres w/citrus galore - Price to sell at $179,900. #79

MATURE TREES LINE THE STREET

Compliments this quaint bungalow. 3Bd/2Ba home includes the original wood floors throughout living areas. Separate living rm, family rm & dining rm. 2 car carport includes utility rm & large storage area. Owner Financing Available. Priced at only $179,900.#37

HOW SWEET IT IS -

Enjoy Pride of Home ownership - 3Bd, 2Ba Home, Huge farm style kitchen w/appl & ceramic tile floors. LR & Master Bd has cozy wood laminate floors. Shed on ½ ac in Cork. Only $154,900.#42

NESTLE YOURSELF -

SELLER‘S PAIN IS YOUR GAIN! SHORT SALE!

QUIET COUNTRY LANE…

Custom Built, 4Bd/1.5Ba, 2000 SF mol on 2 acres mol. Lovingly cared for, ceramic tile floors, huge Family Rm & Bonus Rm, swim in beautiful inground screened pool - A steal for $235,000. #18

Leads to beautifully maintained country paradise.

4Bd/3Ba, 2474 SF, cathedral ceilings w/fireplace in LR, huge FR, & custom kitchen w/appliances.

Sparkling heated pool w/spa & lanai. 4 car garage & separate16x12 room makes this Dad’s dream come true - Presented on 3.03 acres & ready for your enjoyment. A great value for $469,000. #20

BEGINNERS‘ BARGAIN BUNGALOW -

A PLACE WITH SPACE

COUNTRY GET AWAY…

CRAMPED QUARTERS NO MORE!

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN PLANT CITY

HIGHLY VISIBLE COMMERCIAL SITE

Amidst the Oaks & find a charming Farm House Bungalow! 1304 SF in great condition w/laminate floors, 2/3 Bd, 2 Ba, updated kitchen w/appl, Bonus Rm & huge sc lanai. 2 pole barns & 3 sheds on beautiful 2.32ac. A great deal @ $229,900. #36

3Bd, 1Ba, 816 SF vinyl sided home. Close to shopping and schools, this one won‘t bust your budget. Front and back porches, with some work and imagination, this could be a great start. 2 nice sheds and a pretty lot. Great price @ $81,500. #53

Spread out in this nearly 4000 SF, 5Bd/3.5Ba home on 1.25 acres. Let your creative imagination guide you as you complete the interior & exterior as you like! Excellent for Adult Living Facility or extended family. A lot of materials are included to complete, soaring ceilings, huge rooms, marble & ceramic tiles and more! Also, 3Bd/2Ba MH to live in while completing your dream home. Offered at $324,900. #74

Plenty of elbow room in nicely maintained 3bd/2ba DW w/1782 SF on 3.54 acres in Cork! Offering Cathedral ceilings, beautiful work island kitchen w/morning rm, all BDS have walk-in closets. Mature fruit trees dot land, cool off in above ground pool & shed. Priced to sell, a must see! Motivated Sellers! Price Reduced to $159,900.#4

1440 SF Retail space plus canopy & storage. Ideally located w/ ample City parking, brick facade.

New CH/A, newer roof. Make this your office or Shoppe. $249,900. #1

ACREAGE AND COMMERCIAL:

RENTALS:

WOW! 4 ACRES FOR $179,900!!

We have rentals from $650 per month up to $2200 per month.

Please call for more info.

Bring your house plans, 4 gorgeous acres in Springhead on Wiggins Rd. Lovely, ideal for your dream home, pond for fishin‘ days. You‘ll love quiet, cleared pasture in great location - Must see! No Home Owner fees, No Restrictions! #86

INDUSTRIAL SITE -

Quaint 3Bd/2Ba home located on over 1/3 acre features newer A/C, fenced back yard with space to entertain. Ideal for new family, retired couple or anyone who enjoys room to roam. Horses permitted and has well and septic. $150,000. #67

Plant City, with easy on/off access to I-4, this site offers over 4409 SF in existing English Tudor bldg. Plus outdoor lanai. Presently thriving Gift & Tea Shoppe, perfect for office space, retail, spa, beauty shop, fast food, plenty of parking. Call for more info. $989,000.#70

ALEXANDER ST -

With over 1349 SF on YMCA Dr, 345 FT on Mud Lake Rd & Alexander St, this is the ideal site for Multi-Family, ACLF, Medical Facility and more! Zoned CU - 7.25 acres just North of New YMCA! Asking $1,600,000 #34

MUD LAKE ROAD - ADJACENT TO WALDEN LAKE

5 acre with development potential located in high traffic area. - Additional property available. $175,000. #13

Plant City 1.61+- acre, great Park Rd location easy on/off access to I-4, Lakeland, Tampa & Orlando. Zoned Light Industrial - Ideal site for manufacturing, processing plant, etc. Only $164,900. A great value! #44

LOCATED WALKING DISTANCE TO SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY This graded lot is ready for a home. Priced at only $30,000.#10

Wishing you a Holiday Season filled with happy memories.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

1514 S. Alexander St., #203, Plant City, FL 33563

813-659-3306 www.vogelrealtyservices.com

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 81

BEFORE YOU CLOSE YOUR NEXT TRANSACTION, ASK THESE QUESTIONS BEFORE SELECTING A TITLE COMPANY - Do you file Homestead Exemption at closing at no additional cost?

- Do you digitally save documents after closing and keep in house for quick and easy document retrieval?

- Does your website have a selection of FREE downloadable forms and other useful items to assist you in selling your own home?

- Can you close at a location and time convenient to me?

- Am I entitled to a reduced rate of title insurance, EVEN IF I closed elsewhere before?

At Hillsborough Title, the answer is YES--

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Plant City

1605 S. Alexander St. Suite #102 • Plant City, FL 33563 Ph: 813-754-4440 • Fax: 813-754-0915

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 82

Brandon

350 E. Bloomingdale Ave • Brandon, FL 33511 Ph: 813-655-4000 • Fax: 813-655-4110

Nate Kilton

PARK PLACE PROPERTIES REALTORÂŽ

813- 752- 5804

4 "MFYBOEFS t 4VJUF 1MBOU $JUZ '-

PICTURE PERFECT Theres lots of space for a growing family in this 4 Bedrm 2Ba home surrounded by 2.13 acres .

Screened back porch & above ground pool with deck. Plus a 20 x 24 two story barn & a 12 x 18 shed. PRICED REDUCED TO $179,900. #722

WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE PUTTING YOU ONâ&#x20AC;Ś to a great opportunity to own this 3 bedrm 2 bath ranch home w/1954 sq ft of living space on 3.75 acres. Fenced & Xfenced with a barn & small pond w/ ďŹ shing dock.. PRICED $80,000 BELOW APPRAISAL. Yours today for $319,900. #718

WELCOME HOME! Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll feel cozy in this 3 BR 2BA family style home with great lay out for family living. Split Plan. Family Rm w/ Fireplace. Scrnd front porch.

Tucked away on 1.4 acres completely fenced at the end of a private lane. PRICED BELOW APPRAISAL! $230,000. # 728

HEREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S THE KEY to your happiness. Move into this brand new 3BR 2BA home on an acre in Springhead. Great Room with ďŹ replace. Spacious master suite w/ two walk-in closets, garden tub & separate shower. An excellent price of $279,995. #607

REALTORÂŽ

(813) 732-3113 Cell

Hate Income Taxes?

Contact me for a free, no obligation consultation about the income tax implications of your real estate transaction BEAUTIFUL CRAFTSMANS STYLE 2,592 sq ft 3 bedroom 2 bath nome located on about .44 acres in the Historic District of Plant City. This home has a spacious unďŹ nished attic with loads of potential for additional living space. There is a ďŹ replace in the living room, detached garage, and front and rear porches. Adjacent .80 acres under folio #20760630-0050 is being sold separately.

E IC ED PR UC D RE

GREAT LOCATION!! 1 acre mol zoned C-1A w/ ELU multifamily on the corner of Thonotosassa Rd and Mobley St in Plant City. Perfect for a medical facility given close proximity to South Florida Baptist Hospital. City water and sewer close by. Buyer should conďŹ rm details with city. Asking $400,000 (http://mid-ďŹ&#x201A;oridahomes.com/373288) THIS 5.2 ACRE MOL PROPERTY is just minutes to Plant City, shopping, and dining yet still provides seclusion and privacy.

Could combine with adjacent 1.8 acres. Asking $225,000 for 5.2 acres and $145,000 for 1.8 acres. (http://mid-ďŹ&#x201A;oridahomes.com/373287) LOCATED ON A CONSERVATION LOT with fresh exterior paint and brand new landscaping including a 450 sq ft paver patio.

Wood ďŹ&#x201A;oors in living and dining areas. Tile in kitchen and master bath. Open ďŹ&#x201A;oor plan. New carpet being installed. Owner is a licensed real estate agent. Asking $280,000 THIS IS TRULY AN EXCEPTIONAL PROPERTY located just off Forbes Road near Plant City. A large portion of the property is covered in oaks and is densely wooded. This parcel is a dream location for a ranch or would make a great investment for current or future development. Asking $1,800,000.

Purchase

Refinance

Rates are still low and there are plenty of options. Let us help you purchase your first home or your dream home.

BEGINNERS LUCK

Ideal for family. This 2 BR block home is surrounded by a pretty acre lot. At the end of a long day you can relax & enjoy the nice covered patio. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let this one get past you. It can be yours for an affordable $134,900. # 731

PLAY AT HOME

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lots of room for the kids on this large country lot surrounding this recently remodeled 3 bedroom home. Ceramic tile in foyer & living rm. All appliances stay. Nice screened back porch. It can be yours for $135,900. #725 t

t

t t t

DOLPHIN REALTY

208 Apollo Beach Blvd.

Apollo Beach, FL 33572

Let our no obligation mortgage analysis help you decide if a refinance is the best option for you.

HERMITS HIDEWAY Really want privacy? This unique 1BR 1BA cabin is tucked way back on 9.42 acres located in Southeastern Hillsborough County. Land is still in itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural habitat with small creek running through it. Priced below appraisal at $284,900. Make your appt today to see. #726

WALDEN LAKE RENTAL

Nice 3 Bedroom 2 Bath home in East Walden Lake. Available immediately. Good Credit Required. No Pets. $1100 Per Month.

Call for Details.

1703-B Thonotosassa Rd. â&#x20AC;˘ Plant City, FL 33563

(813) 754-8700 50 Years

-054 "$&3"(&

)034& -07&34 "DSFT PG QBTUVSF PBLT 'FODFE YGFODFE 1PMF #BSO #FBVUJGVM IPNFTJUF 5XP BEKPJOJOH EFFE SFTUSJDUFE MPUT BWBJMBCMF JO HSFBU BSFB BDSF #FBVUJGVM IPNFTJUF BDSFT #VZ POF PS CPUI $0..&3$*"M -05 GPS MFBTF XJUI 3E GSPOUBHF PO )XZ #BLFS 4U JOTJEF DJUZ MJNJUT 0''*$& 41"$& BWBJMBCMF PO "MFYBOEFS 4U $BMM GPS EFUBJMT /"563& -07&34 1"3"%*4& )FBWJMZ XPPEFE BDSFT XJUI MPUT PG USFFT .BLF ZPVS PXO QBSL MJLF ZBSE 8FMM BMSFBEZ PO QSPQFSUZ Each office is independently owned and operated, except offices owned and operated by NRT incorporated

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FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 83

homes realestate

sub m itte d by s h e lto n k e ely

POOL MASTERS

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When Your Homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Value is Less Than the Mortgage

For a variety of reasons, it is possible that the total debt on your home may be more than what the home is worth. Depending on how much you owe, just wait it out and the value of your home goes up.

Problem solved. Unfortunately, this could take years.

This solution does not work for everyone, because some folks are stuck in a situation where they absolutely have to sell their house.

One option is something called a â&#x20AC;&#x153;short sale.â&#x20AC;? This is when you fess up to the lender, let them know about your hardship and ask them to accept less money than you owe. Lenders absolutely hate to foreclose, so they may be willing to consider a short sale. But donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get your hopes up.

The first step is to contact the Loan Service Department of your lender.

That number will be in the documentation you receive about making your payment. Use the phone and the mail. Keep copies.

The lender will ask you to submit a financial statement. They want to know that you really donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the financial assets to repay the loan after you sell the home.

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just the beginning, assuming they give a tentative agreement.

9EARS OF %XPERIENCE

0ROSSER $R s

Your real estate agent still has to put the home on the market, find a buyer, and get a bona fide offer. Once that has been accomplished, you submit all contracts and paperwork to your lender for a decision. This takes a while because there are several decision makers involved.

Your lender isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t usually your lender. They just service the loan for your actual lender, called the investor. Your paperwork is submitted to the investor for a decision. Assuming you have mortgage insurance on the loan, they are another decision maker in the process. Mortgage insurance covers lenders in the case of loan defaults. That way they can justify making high LTV (loan-to-value) loans.

If the investor and the insurer both agree, your short sale is approved, and you can sell your home.

A short sale is basically a â&#x20AC;&#x153;forgiveness of debtâ&#x20AC;? That counts as income and you have to declare it to the IRS.

Shelton Keely â&#x20AC;˘ Broker Associate â&#x20AC;˘ Keller Williams Realty FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 84

ADVANTAGE YOURS Custom Window Products & Home Accessories

Priced To Your Advantage By: Diane Peyton Your Plant City Decorator Since 1985

Before

After

Shutters â&#x20AC;˘ Draperies â&#x20AC;˘ Blinds â&#x20AC;˘ Shades â&#x20AC;˘ Bedspreads â&#x20AC;˘ And More Call For Free Estimates

0GmDF t $FMM 90 Days Same As Cash Financing FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 85

813-764-0840

208 W. Baker St. â&#x20AC;˘ Plant City, Florida 33563 www.PlantCityRealty.com â&#x20AC;˘ 1 ACRE MOL â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4 sites to choose from â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Plant City (L7-L10) â&#x20AC;˘ 1.69 ACRES â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Conveniently located in Plant City â&#x20AC;&#x201C; (L-3) â&#x20AC;˘ 10 ACRES MOL â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Commercial potential â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Plant City (L-4) HISTORIC DISTRICT HOME 3 Bedroom â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2 Bath. Beautiful treed lot. This home has unlimited possibilities. (R-17)

COUNTRY FARM HOME -

3 Bedrooms â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 Bath. Peaceful 10 acres, with possible income producing opportunities. (R10)

HOME ON 1 ACRE - 2 Bedroom â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 Bath â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 936 Sq. Ft. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Convenient to Schools, shopping and major highways (R-18)

BRING THE HORSES - 3 Bedroom â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2 Bath â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10 mol Acres â&#x20AC;&#x201C; set up for the horse lover. (R-31)

â&#x20AC;˘ 45â&#x20AC;? x 450â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bring your Mobile Home â&#x20AC;&#x201C; (L-11) â&#x20AC;˘ 40 ACRES â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Income producing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; conveniently located in Plant City (L-2) â&#x20AC;˘ 162 ACRES â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Unlimited possibilities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; located in Lakeland with quick access to Plant city and I-4 (L-1) â&#x20AC;˘ 292 ACRES MOL â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Working cattle ranch with many other opportunities (L-5)

DREAM COTTAGE - Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss your opportunity to own your own Dream Cottage. This is 1200 sq. ft. of charmed living. Call Today! (R-7)

WALDEN LAKE - 2 Bedroom â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2 Bath â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1596 Sq. Ft. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Home Warranty included (R-9)

AFFORDABLE - 3 Bedroom â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2 Bath â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1396 Sq.Ft. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bonus room â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Nice sized yard (R-1)

â&#x20AC;˘ INCOME PRODUCING â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mobile Home Park in Lakeland. 6 existing units, 8 potential rentals.

Great opportunity! (C-4)

PROFESSIONAL REALTORS - WORKING FOR YOU! &2%% %34)-!4%3

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FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 86

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FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 87

MODEL NOW OPEN

Single Family Homes from the Low $200’s 1,467 to 1,950 s.f. of living space Standard lot 60’ x 110’

INVENTORY HOMES AVAILABLE

Walden Pointe PRE-CONSTRUCTION PRICING

Single Family Homes starting from the $260’s 1,963 to 2,704 s.f. of living space Standard lot 75’ x 120’. Larger lots available

5VSOJOH )PVTFT *OUP )PNFT 4JODF For The Best Royal Treatment

FREEMARR HOMES

NOW SELLING

Trapnell Ridge

“Your Quality Home Builder”

Contact Paula and Abby today at 813-752-8607 paula.meyers@freemarr.com • www.freemarr.com Broker Participation Welcome PRIME PLANT CITY LOCATIONS

Abby Richardson

Paula Davis Meyers Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice.

Standard features may vary per floor plan and community.

CRC 043791

$30 OFF /FF THE lRST CLEANS

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l Library, Inc. of the Bruton Memoria Published by the Friends PLANT CITY Number - Ask Vol. 13 anyone2in donĘźt know is the story behind Spring 2005 Plant City for a good place the days were spent in to eat name and who Grandpa Johnson biinto with getďŹ elds andthe and, odds are, youĘźll be directed in Tampa hisout father.

Elton still smiles. as characters hang really is. he to FredĘźs Market Restaurant own backyards This right in our shouting or zarre scrapes remembers â&#x20AC;&#x153;hawâ&#x20AC;? and Tribune Tampa Grandpa JohnsonĘźs Barbeque. former â&#x20AC;&#x153;geeâ&#x20AC;?

Dorsey, at the Tim is mule, and Ninety author laughs years ago, in the little town hereasin right Even out-of-towners are familiar will be speaking he remarks and he that kids today donĘźt of Opp, Alabama, Elton reporter, on May with these Plant City originals.

Johnson ty know what those Room words mean. was born on April 28th. As own Moody Communi ourthe The Johnson family name has 7pm. oldest son among 8 children, 5th at become synonymous with he EltonĘźs father was a musical good quickly learned the value to southern cooking and classic of hard movedman sawin toIndiana, it that every washeborn work. By the time he wasTim Dorseyand barbeque. But what most a small 7 or inchild played and grew up an 1, instrument. people age of 8, old enough to hold a plow, the Sunday Florida his at afternoons wereof Miami called on the front town about an hour north spent from Auburn Riviera Beach. He graduated in Transportaa B.S. University in 1983 with of the editor was he Auburn, tion. While at Plainsman. student newspaper, The

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Thank you for joining us at Grandpa JohnsonĘźs Barbeque, we hope your experience has been enjoyable! Each day we strive to serve the best barbeque in the best way possible. Our sauces and rubs are the product of countless hours of testing, tasting, and reďŹ ning recipes. Our menu items have been carefully selected to give you a true barbeque experienc e and good southern cooking. A few of our items are offered because they are regional favorites such as strawberry shortcake - others are family recipes, passed down through the generations.

We are â&#x20AC;&#x153;smokinĘź proudâ&#x20AC;? of our restaurant, food and service but above all, we are barbeque fans and appreciate any comments you may have. We are glad you stopped by and look forward to seeing you again soon.

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porch practicing together.

This was especially hard for Elton, who â&#x20AC;&#x201C; like most young boys â&#x20AC;&#x201C; would have rather been running and playing games with his friends. Even so, those Sunday afternoons instilled a strong family bond in the Johnson clan.

In 1932, at the age of 17, Elton moved south with his family.

They had heard through friends that there were good opportunitie s in Central Florida. They settled in the Coronet area and worked together picking strawberries to make a living. Over the next few years, Elton spent time at a CCC Camp (Civilian Conservation Continued on Page 3 â&#x20AC;&#x153;History of Grandpa JohnsonĘźs BBQâ&#x20AC;?

he was a police and courts From 1983 to 1987, Journal, the now-dereporter for The Alabama Montgomery. He r in funct evening newspape in 1987 as a genjoined The Tampa Tribune also worked as a He eral assignment reporter. e TribuneĘźs Tallahasse in political reporter the editor. From 1994 to bureau and a copy desk night metro editor 1999, he was the TribuneĘźs He left the paper r. and night news coordinato time. He lives in full in August 1999 to write He daughters. two and Tampa with his wife is 44.

3%9 "//+3 "9 4)- $/2 Florida Roadkill Motel Hammerhead Ranch Orange Crush TriggerďŹ sh Twist The Stingray ShufďŹ&#x201A;e Torpedo Juice Writers All are Other Florida Mystery in a variety of available at the Library formats.

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% * !RDEN -AYS "LVD 0LANT #ITY &L /FlCE %XT &AX FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 90

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MULBERRY IMPERIAL LAKES

Over 4100 sq. foot, 4 bedroom 2 story home on 1/2 acre. Dramatic entry, living room with wood burning ďŹ replace. Downstairs master suite, separate hobby/computer room, and separate family/game room. Gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Beautiful property. Asking $484,900.

Two bedroom, one bath Lakeland condo.

Private screened porch, tennis court and community pool. Perfect for the 1st time buyer or investor. Drastic price reduction: priced to sell fast at just $85,000!

PLANT CITY GREAT FAMILY HOME

Three bedroom, 2 bath split plan. Large back yard; perfect for the kids! Convenient location, close to I-4 and shopping. $5,000 allowance for closing costs/decorating allowance. Motivated sellers...bring offers!

Reduced to sell at just $148,500.

Affordable two bedroom, two bath manufactured home in the Meadows at Countrywood. Enjoy your morning coffee from the sun porch overlooking the water. Quiet dead-end street. Wonderful golf community. Wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t last at just $26,000.

Beautiful 3 bedroom with many upgrades including ceramic tile, upgraded appliances and cabinets, drywall and paved driveway.

Additional den/nursery off of master. Very open ďŹ&#x201A;oor plan, large master suite, and family room with ďŹ replace. $229,000.

MagniďŹ cent 5 Bedroom, 4 bath golf course pool home. Over 3600 square ft of living area. Volume ceilings, separate living room and family room with ďŹ replace, formal areas, separate workshop/study, and a huge outdoor patio surrounding pool. Gourmet kitchen w/ granite counters and stainless appliances.

Motivated seller; asking just $479,000 plus offering $10,000 closing cost allowance.

Huge country kitchen with wood burning stove. Formal dining room and living room with brick ďŹ replace. Large 28 X 10 outdoor porch and new detached 30 X 22 workshop/ garage. Beautiful country property with no deed restrictions. Great location close to shopping. Priced to sell at just $174,900

Adorable two bedroom, two bath home in Dixieland area of Lakeland. Wonderful location, close to shopping. Detached separate mother-in-law studio suite with kitchenette and additional full bath. Living room with ďŹ replace, separate family room, plus enclosed front porch. Priced to sell at just $129,000.

Bright and cheerful home with beautiful skylights throughout. Two bedrooms, two baths, newer roof and windows with ďŹ nished Florida room overlooking peaceful canal. Double car port, updated dining room with laminate ďŹ&#x201A;ooring. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss this one at $40,000.

PRICE REDUCED! Sellers to pay 1/2 buyers closing costs on this three bedroom, two bath home with over 1,500 sq. ft of living area in this well established neighborhood.

Home features a large great room, wood burning ďŹ replace, separate formal dining room & breakfast bar, mature landscaping & no back yard neighbors! Priced to sell at just $175,000.

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FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 91

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business & finance investing

sub m it t e d by e dwa r d jo nes

Michael Cameron Financial Advisor

2501 Thonotosassa Rd Plant City, FL 33563 813-759-1491

Will “Subprime” Loan Crunch Affect You? If you’ve even casually followed the news over the past several months, you’ve probably heard about “subprime loans.” How might these subprime loans affect the economy?

Generally speaking, a subprime loan is a mortgage made to a borrower who might not otherwise qualify for a loan. Subprime lenders typically charged these borrowers higher interest rates, but some subprimes were adjustable rate mortgages (ARMs), which meant they carried a lower rate for the first few years of the loan. Many subprime borrowers took out ARMs, hoping their credit would improve enough for them to qualify for a better rate before the mortgage rate was adjusted upward. When this didn’t happen, they were hit with higher payments and many faced foreclosure. Because many of these mortgages had been resold and then packaged into other financial vehicles, the bad loans hurt these investments.

As an individual investor, what moves, if any, should you make to prepare yourself for any potential subprime “aftershocks”?

To begin with, don’t get so caught up in a possible subprime-fueled downturn that you overlook the many positive factors about the current investment outlook. Although the real estate industry is slumping, the rest of the economy remains relatively strong. Furthermore, inflation and interest rates remain low and stable, and corporate profits still exceed expectations.

Look for quality. Quality investments, such as the stocks of strong, established companies, historically tend to fall less than other investments in down markets, and they have frequently lead the way in the recoveries that follow. Past performance is not an indication of future results.

Choose an appropriate mix of investments. Build a portfolio containing a variety of investments that are suitable for your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon. While diversification, by itself, can’t guarantee a profit or protect against a loss in declining markets, it can help reduce the effects of market volatility.

Hold investments for the long term. By following a “buy-and-hold” investment strategy, you can reduce your commission costs and avoid some of the other problems that can result from frequent buying and selling. Once you buy an investment, consider holding it until either your needs change or the investment itself has evolved in an unexpected way.

By looking beyond the possible turmoil and sticking with good investment habits, you may well escape some of the problems caused by the subprime fallout - while you stay on track toward your long-term investment goals.

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 94

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 95

Merry Christmas From The Staff At Focus Magazine

We Wish You And Yours A Very Merry Christmas And A Happy New Year.

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FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 98

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FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 99

business & finance businessprofile

story and photos by kri sten to ney

send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

PAR Interiors

Designing with Customer’s Best Interests In Mind Patricia Rogers spent 25 years in the world of accounting. Then she decided she wanted a change.

Having always done small interior design projects for family and friends, she went back to school to “learn the basics”, and what has come out of her love of design and schooling is now known as PAR Interiors.

Business partner Tom Hickey has worked with Patricia doing installations for many years. As the two developed a good working relationship, they began to talk about beginning their own business specializing in interior design with an emphasis on window treatments, blinds and shutters.

“Although we had worked out of our homes for about ten years, in July we opened the doors to this location and had our grand opening in September and a sales record for the month!” Rogers stated.

Hickey has been working with blinds since he was in high school, where he started in the manufacturing area first. “As soon as I was old enough to drive, they allowed me to go out and do the installations,” Hickey remembered. “As time has

gone on, I’ve worked in other areas, as well, but this is what I’ve always enjoyed.”

Also working with Rogers and Hickey is Interior Design student Mindy Davis.

“I knew how important it was for me to be working in the field to gain experience,” Davis explained. “I found Patricia in the Shepherd’s Guide; she was the only interior decorator in there. So after much prayer and thought, I called her and here we are. I’ve learned so much from her!”

Rogers knows things are different due to the economy, and rather than buying new homes, most people are simply looking to remodel. Although the most common group of customers for her company are ages 35-55, no matter if you’re a first time homeowner, someone going through a life change, moving or downsizing, her goal is to first incorporate what her customer has, and then work within their budget.

For each customer, an in-home consultation is provided during a tour of his or her home. “It

Patricia Rogers showcases a beautiful set of custom-made shutters.

gives us a glance at their lifestyle and an idea of their needs,” Rogers commented. “You’d be surprised at what you hear when you’re walking through the house, like ‘this was aunt Sarah’s favorite chair’, so you know that chair’s not going anywhere, and you’ll just have to decorate around it! And that’s great! We can work with anything!”

Shutters are also becoming very popular again, according to Rogers. “We’re offering the best price ever on shutters. We can beat anybody’s price, including Lowe’s and Home Depot.”

Space planning and Christmas decoration is offered, as well. Tammy Simpson is a satisfied customer after Patricia came out and decorated her home for Christmas, using decorations she already had in storage.

“PAR Interiors isn’t just another interior design company,” Simpson stated firmly. “Patricia and her staff will work with you so the average housewife can easily afford their high-quality services.”

Tom Hickey, Mindy Davis (seated) and Patricia Rogers.

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 100

Integrity and honesty are traits the staff of PAR Interiors have in abundance, along with their excellent design skills. For more information on how PAR Interiors can help with your design needs, call them at (813) 754-1567, visit them at 1514 South Alexander Street in Suite 108 or visit their website at www.parinteriors.com. Business Hours are Tuesdays – Fridays 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., Saturdays 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., and evening/weekend appointments are available.

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FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 101

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health drott

submit ted by susan m . ott, d. o.

Health and Fitness Tips for Surviving the Holidays

The holidays are once again upon usâ&#x20AC;Śas are all the goodies and stress that go along with them. Holiday shopping and planning can stress out even the most relaxed person. Expectations on our time mount. Christmas and Holiday parties abound. How is one to survive!!! Planning is the key to making it through the holiday season with a minimum of stress and weight gain, which are the two things people worry about most.

STRESS!! There are many demands on our time during this season.

How to fit in all the shopping, party going and decorating? How to handle difficult relatives and visitors? Plus the usual demands in our otherwise busy life. Everyone worries about gaining weight during the holidays. It is a special time of year yet you do not want to let all your hard work from the other 11 months be in vain. Most serious exercisers actually resign themselves to a 2-5# weight gain over the holiday.

The trick is to keep things to 2-5# and not let it all get out of hand.

The holiday season is hectic for all of us. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a bit late to be trying to get all your shopping done before Thanksgiving to avoid the holiday rush but here are some things to think about.

Shopping â&#x20AC;˘ Try to shop at off peak hours if you are able. The stores are apt to be less crowded during week days. â&#x20AC;˘ Try shopping online. No stores involved and often things can be shipped directly to the recipient thus avoiding a trip to the post office as well. â&#x20AC;˘ Your northern friends on your gift list might appreciate some oranges from sunny Florida...easy to order and once again easily shipped. â&#x20AC;˘ Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait until the last minute.

â&#x20AC;˘ Ask for help if you need it.

Holiday parties â&#x20AC;˘ Look at your calendar and decide how many you can/want to attend and plan accordingly. â&#x20AC;˘ Try to eat something before you head to you party. If you arrive with a full stomach you will be less likely to nosh away for hours. â&#x20AC;˘ Fill up your plate with veggies and lean protein like shrimp if it is available.

Fill up on that first. â&#x20AC;˘ Limit your sugary snacks. â&#x20AC;˘ Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s better to enjoy a little of your favorites than to deprive yourself completely.

If you skip it entirely you may end up eating it later. â&#x20AC;˘ If you are going to drink alcohol steer clear of sugary drinks. Mix liquor with seltzer or diet soda. Try opting for heart healthy red wine. Alternate your alcoholic choices with water, seltzer or diet soda. â&#x20AC;˘ Eggnog can be a mine-field of calories but there are soy and low fat/non fat alternatives.

Office Treats â&#x20AC;˘ Make sure you head to work with a good healthy breakfast on board. â&#x20AC;˘ Bring healthy snacks with you to work. â&#x20AC;˘ Bring a healthy lunch as well. â&#x20AC;˘ Drink lots of water. â&#x20AC;˘ Plan to go for a walk with a co-worker at lunch or after work.

The holidays are a time to enjoy friends and family. Take the time to enjoy and be thankful for those in your life. Do the things you need to do to make the holiday season as pleasant for you and yours as possible. With everything in moderation itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s possible to enjoy yourself without gaining a lot of weight and still have a great time. Happy Holidays to all.

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FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 107

health sherrynueesch

submit ted by s herry nu eesch

Three’s and Sixes One of the hottest topics in the health industry is the discussion of the lack of Omega 3 fatty acids in the modern American diet.

If you are paying attention to print and the news you are hearing a lot about eating fish and taking fish oil supplements. The big buzz about omega 3 is because it has been recognized that us Americans are grossly deficient in them. Omega 3 and omega 6 are both considered essential fatty acids because our bodies cannot manufacture them, we must eat them. Food sources of both 3 and 6 include meat, plants, fish, nuts and seeds. The most important information I want to share with you is about the ratio of these essential fats in our diet and the role they play in our health.

A healthy diet should consist of two to four times more omega 6 than omega 3. The typical American diet contains 14 to 25 times more omega 6 than omega 3. Therein lies the problem. A diet heavy in omega 6 has been proven to cause a host of diseases including: heart disease, cancer, depression, Alzheimer’s, ADHD, arthritis, asthma, osteoporosis and more. I think that is enough to get anyone’s attention.

Italian researchers proved in a study that raising omega 3 not only greatly reduced heart attacks and heart disease, but all causes of death greatly declined in the test subjects. The University of Pittsburg School of Medicine found their test subjects that improved the ratio of omega 3 to omega 6 were happier and more positive. They had less depression, bipolar disorder, less ADHD and less substance abuse. Japanese researchers have concluded in a study that the lower incidence of breast cancer in Japanese women is due to more omega 3 in their diet than their American counterparts. French researchers found in a study that brains high in omega 6 were fertile ground for Parkinson’s disease.

Tuffs University found that more omega 3 in the diet reduces the incidence of heart disease. So you can see that the research findings are all coming out in favor of adding more omega 3 to our diet and reducing omega 6.

So what happened that we got so out of balance? We messed with Mother Nature. Omega 3 is most abundant in seafood and certain nuts and seeds such as flaxseed and walnuts. It is also found in animals raised on pasture. Sixty percent of the fatty acids in grass are omega 3. Beef raised on grass have more omega 3. Beef raised in feed lots, fed grain and corn, have an omega 3 to omega 6 ratio of 1:20 while grass fed beef has a ratio of 1:1. That’s 20 times more omega 6 than omega 3!!! Cows are supposed to eat grass, so are chickens. Eggs from chickens allowed to feed on insects and green plants contain omega 6

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 108

and omega 3 fatty acids in the beneficial ratio of approximately one-to-one, but commercial supermarket eggs from hens fed mostly grain contain as much as 19 times more omega 6 than omega 3!

Another source of omega 6 fatty acids are vegetable oils such as corn, safflower, soybean, cottonseed, sesame and sunflower. Of course all these oils are found in abundance in processed food. Some of these oils contain some omega 3 but the ratio with omega 6 again is far too heavy on the omega 6 side.

Before 1910 heart attacks were virtually unheard of. Now it is the leading cause of death in America. Back then we ate meat from pastured cows and ate eggs from pastured chickens. We have definitely messed with Mother Nature and I think she is talking back. Over consumption of omega 6 is killing us. I don’t know the safety of trying to consume large amounts of fish oil to compensate for the grossly lopsided abundance of omega 6 in our diets. I for one believe it is far healthier to eat what God intended for us to eat. I still don’t believe He makes mistakes. Cows and chickens are not supposed to be raised in lots and factory farmed. All I want for Christmas is some good old fashioned food, grown the healthy way and available in my grocery store. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Sherry Nueesch.

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 109

sports football

Story and photos by jo e bow les

send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

Family, School and Football

Second Year Raiders’ Head Coach has Everyone Believing ever, the offense for the Raiders began to click.

“We went on a 65-yard, 13-play drive inside their 10-yard line and kicked a field goal and thought we had some momentum,” Kelley recalled. But on the first play following the ensuing kickoff, Osceola’s Bubba Brown ran 60 yards with just seconds left in the half. That run changed the complexion of the game.

Raiders congratulating Osceola Kowboys after the game

There are those that believe Plant City’s Kevin Kelley may be the best head football coach in Hillsborough County, but there are even more that believe Kelley is the nicest. Just ask his students and players. After 16 years as an assistant football coach (seven years at East Bay and nine years at Plant City) Kelley was named head coach of the Raiders two years ago and has done the most with his opportunity.

This years Raiders have compiled a 6-4 record, a second place finish in the district, and qualified for a first round playoff game against undefeated Osceola High School.

the football field, with students jockeying to get in one of his classes. For Plant City High School students, they were out of luck this year because Kelly actually was employed on the teaching staff at rival Brandon High School.

“It made it awkward,” said the head coach, “But everyone at Brandon was nice to me.”

Next year a teaching position in Kelly’s area of certification at Plant City will likely open up and Kelly will return to teach at the school in which he coaches.

In the Raider’s playoff game, the Osceola Kowboys jumped out to an earlier 14-0 lead.

Shortly before the end of the first half, how-

“I told the team at halftime, let’s just go out and have some fun,” Kelley said. Plant City has relied on a successful running game all year with Sirchauncey Holloway getting the majority of the carries, but in trying to play catch up, the Raiders opened up the passing game in the second half and quarterback Clint Stearns had his best game of the year throwing for two touchdowns, and 231 yards that included a 79 yard TD pass to Adrian Sykes.

The Raiders lost to the Kowboys 34-17.

It was a disappointing loss for Kelley, the players, and coaching staff but next year looks promising. “We have some holes to fill and boys to get prepared but I like our chances.

This will be the third year with our system and half of our starters are coming back. So I feel pretty good about next year.” Most of us in this area feel pretty good about next year too, especially knowing that the head coach will be returning.

After observing Kelley’s demeanor around his players, one can’t help but be impressed with the respect he gives his players and the positive attitude that he exudes. It all starts with the philosophy he has adopted for his team to follow, “Family, School and Football” in that order. “We’re trying to lay a foundation here based on hard work and priorities,” said Kelley. Others who understand Kelley’s approach and have appreciated his commitment and success include the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who earlier this season recognized him as “High School Coach of the Week.”

Kelly is as popular in the classroom as he is on FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 110

Quarterback Clint Stearns (right) and Receiver Adrian Sykes following 79 yard touchdown pass

Head Football Coach Kevin Kelley following district playoff loss to Osceola High School

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FOCUS Magazine โ ข december 15 - january 15 โ ข Page 111

sports athleteofthemonth

Story and Photo by Ho lly M allali eu

send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

high school athlete of the month

Omar Saenz The school year is really flying by, and while some sports are ending new ones are being ushered in. With soccer season just beginning, what better person to recognize for this time around’s athlete of the month than Plant City High School’s team captain, Omar Saenz. At 18, Saenz is a senior and has been a skilled and consistent player on the soccer team for the past four years. Although this is his first time holding the position of captain, he has always displayed good sportsmanship and the leadership qualities it takes to stand out on a team.

Soccer has long been a sport Saenz has played and enjoyed, and he was a member of the Plant City Lancers for many years before high school.

Once at PCHS, he also played football as a freshman and sophomore. Although he hasn’t played football for the past two seasons, soccer has been something he has stuck with. Coach K.C. Vanderluit says he chose to honor Saenz because of his leadership. “He has a winning mentality and gets everybody going,” he says. “He’s a great defender and athlete.” The soccer team has kicked off in hopes of a successful season, and with a good leader heading a hardworking team, it looks promising.

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 112

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 113

extra alruechel

submit ted by al ru ec hel

Getting Fat over the Holidays Like it’s some kind of secret. We get fatter over the holidays. According to Health Magazine the average American will gain seven pounds between Thanksgiving and New Years. They call it the sinful seven. I don’t believe the seven-pound figure. It has to be higher than that. I gained a traumatic 10 just over Thanksgiving and I didn’t even eat that much.

So, is it the turkey or the dressing or the three pieces of pie that adds to the waistline? Okay, I lied. I had five pieces of pie. “Portion size” is the big issue here. If you just had a couple of tablespoons worth of those wonderful garlic potatoes you’d probably escape expansion city. But how often do you allow yourself to make potatoes like that, much less eat them? You know you are doomed. And if you are cleaning up after the meal and there’s just a corners-worth of food in that big bowl you can’t just throw it away. Think of the thousands starving in India.

Actually, you could probably eat an entire bowl of cranberry salad and maybe gain a half pound or less. Have you noticed how no one really eats the cranberry salad but you have to make every year just in case the traditionmister pops in unannounced. I blame my wife’s butter horn rolls. Her grandmother gave her the recipe before we were married. They are so light and fluffy and melt in your mouth. How can there be anything unhealthy about a recipe that your grandmother passed on? I don’t think cholesterol was invented until the TV came on the scene.

Before that everyone spent so much time chopping wood, shoveling snow, killing and dressing the mastodon there wasn’t time to gain any weight. Maybe folks look skinnier in black and white.

What harm can two drumsticks on a 30pound bird render to a skinny guy like me?

Truth be told it’s not the food. It’s the sitting around and watching the umpteenth football game between two teams that you could give a rip about that serves like a weighted tamper pushing fat into your hips if you are a woman and into the belly or love handles if you are a man. And then somebody gets the bright idea that we need to eat supper a little earlier so Aunt Mabel won’t starve when she has to drive the five miles across town to her home. We are such a bunch of sheep. If one person starts nibbling on those darn leftovers it’s like Pavlov taps directly into our brains, forcing us to the table for our pat on the head.

And don’t talk to me about alcohol. I don’t drink so you can’t blame any weighty gain on a six-pack binge. It’s diet Coke for me with a half ounce of chilled Lambrusco on the side. I suppose it doesn’t help that I collapse on the bed after eating to sleep off the effects of all that turkey. What harm can two drumsticks on a 30-pound bird render to a skinny guy like me?

So, as not to waste anymore of your time here are some tips on how to prevent over eating and weight gain during the holidays. My thanks to Lynn Bode, a certified personal trainer (Centralhome.com) who has no idea I’m using her ideas in this column. That’s what you get for writing on the Internet. The tips sound very official, in a healthy kind of way, so I’ll pass them on to you. They are all soooooo easy to follow!

-Skip the gravy, dressings and whipped cream -Eat a vegetable snack just before attending holiday events -Do not skip regular exercise but settling for 10 minutes is better than nothing -Exercise at home if you miss your gym time -Scout out healthy foods at parties -Have a plan in place BEFORE the holidays -Skip the alcohol PERIOD. Just two drinks can equal the same calories as a meal Here’s one more tip from me. Go to a pre-school and play with the kids for about two hours the week before Christmas. Then go home and you’ll contract the flu or a cold or something bad within a couple of days and you won’t have to worry about overeating during the holidays. In fact, you will lose weight. I am so stinking smart!

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 114

AllCare Rehabilitation, Inc. OUTPATIENT PHYSICAL THERAPY

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Phone: (813) 754-1062 Fax (813) 759-8254 Dan Manfre, P. T. - President

Our Goal Is To Always Exceed Your Expectations • Success Story •

I was sent to physical therapy due to lower back pain. I then was diagnosed with lumbar disc disease. I would like to say, therapy has been excellent! When I came in I could barely move and was walking with a little limp. Today, one month later, I am walking out of here feeling really good. I began with aquatic exercises and have continued them here and at home. These exercises are great for the back, I also have been getting back massages and ultrasound treatments, they feel great! My experience here has been the best. Thanks so much to all the staff. If I need any future help I know where to come...Allcare!

Thanks Bunches - K.W.

• Allcare Rehabilitation, Healing Since 1990 • Aquatic Therapy • Sprains and Strains • Bone and Joint Injuries • Auto Injuries • Balance Disorders • Hand Injuries • Neurological Conditions • Work Related Injuries • Wound Care • Sports Related Injuries • Fall Prevention • TMJ Therapy • Spinal Injuries Pain Management • Work Conditioning & Rehabilitation • Wellness Programs

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 115

Merry Christmas From Anna’s Garden of Gifts Come visit our store at 1601 N. Wheeler St., Plant City (We are next to Strawberry Hut)

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FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 116

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Q. What causes headaches?

Dr. Brenda Dukes Chiropractic Physician

A. Headaches can result from many conditions. For example, sitting hunched over a desk or computer for hours can cause prolonged muscle contractions in the neck, back, and head. This can temporarily deprive the muscle of oxygen, injuring them and sending pain signals to the brain.

Structural problems in the neck and back can also result from such strains and cause more tension headaches. In fact, in some 90 percent of the cases reported at New Yorkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Stuyvesant Polyclinic Headache Clinic, the headaches were described as a â&#x20AC;&#x153;referred symptom caused by mechanical derangement of the cervical spine [neck].â&#x20AC;? Doctors of Chiropractic are particularly well-qualified to diagnose and treat such structural conditions.

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FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 118

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FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;¢ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;¢ Page 119

dining & entertainment diningprofile

Story and Photos by W endy S. B row n

send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

Linda’s Crab Shack Where Deviled Crabs Reign Walls decorated with netting hooked with fake crabs, colored lights adding hominess around the room, and painted murals depicting fishing boats add to the ambience of Linda’s Crab Shack. Platters heaped with fresh quality dishes fit the bill for those needing a seafood fix, while landlubbers will be pleased with chicken, BBQ, and rib eye steak. Come to a local seafood restaurant where friendly waitress Doris, who also makes the homemade Red Velvet cake, will greet you and probably already knows your name.

Owners Ramon and Linda Garza and their son Steven opened Linda’s Crab shack in March of 1993. The Garza’s used to own a 7500 head dairy farm in Riverview. After 28 years of working 24-7 seven, they needed a change. They previously owned the Beverage Barn at this location, but closed it and expanded the inside of the building for more room for their restaurant.

Being already accomplished cooks, and always catering for all the family gatherings, Ramon and Linda’s decision to open a seafood restaurant in downtown Plant City was a good fit. Son Steven continued in the family business to first help out his folks, but has continued as a partner. Since

Ramon and Linda Garza proudly showoff samples of succulent seafood

Ron Welty of Apollo Beach, Elio De la Cruz of Tampa, and Ryan Hemssey of Lutz came to Linda’s Crab Shack for the first time and will definitely come back.

the Garza’s are the only cooks, the food you order is consistently the same quality.

Loyal repeat customers devour 200-400 pounds of blue crab and 75-100 pounds of shrimp per week. Selling 50,000 deviled crabs last year, Ramon says they are expecting to sell almost 60,000 this year. What keeps people coming in for their deviled crab and crab cakes? These succulents are homemade daily. Linda believes the secret for keeping their devoted customers hooked on crab is “they are handmade, very fresh, and full of meat.” For three years, Focus Magazine readers voted Linda’s Crab Shack “Best Seafood Restaurant” in Plant City.

Customers order from as far away as Alaska and some regulars drive over from Daytona Beach, Miami, and St. Augustine to stock up on a monthly basis.

Downtown events can keep them hopping at night, but this family truly enjoys what they do and their customers. Special features include the steamed seafood sampler for $16.99 which includes steamed shrimp, crabs, garlic crabs, and snow crab legs. The Fried Seafood Feast for $14.99 includes grouper, shrimp, scallops

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 120

and clam strips. According to Linda, “The most ordered items are deviled crab, grouper, and steamed or garlic shrimp.” Most plate lunches are $5.49, which includes a choice of two: French fries, Cole slaw, baked beans, applesauce, or hushpuppies. Various sandwiches come with French fries, including a crab cake sandwich.

Dinner entrees range in price from $6.99 for fried clam strips to $15.99 for surf and turf, though most items are $8.99. Dinner entrees include the choice of two items: French fries, BBQ beans, applesauce, tossed salad, hushpuppies, six corn fritters, pork fried rice, fried corn on the cob, coleslaw and baked potato after 5:30 p.m.

Making sure all customers are pleased, at Linda’s Crab Shack, value and fresh, first-rate seafood is always offered!

Linda’s Crab Shack 202 E. Reynolds Street (813) 754-0492 Cash Only Children’s Menu available: $1.99 - $3.99 Hours: Mon. thru Thurs. 11:30 - 9:00 p.m.

Fri. and Sat. 11:30 – 9:30 p.m.

STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL SPECIAL SECTION

ÂŽ

Each year Focus Magazine produces a special section for the Strawberry FestivalÂŽ. It is the largest issue of the year in many ways: we print more than usual to keep up with the high demand of increased readers, we have the largest amount of editorial pages and most importantly it is packed full of festival stories. This year we are going over the top with a section in each one of our five markets taking the total print run to 100K. This is one issue you do not want to miss. To advertise contact our office at 813.707.8783 for more details.

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MAGAZINE

101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. â&#x20AC;˘ Plant City, FL 33563 â&#x20AC;˘ Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990 â&#x20AC;˘ www.thefocusmagazine.com FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 121

dining & entertainment entertainmentstory

Story by Daniel Sp erry / Photos Cou rtesy of t h e R e d Ros e I n n & S u it e s

send questions and comments to ktoney@floydpublications.com

The Tams Rock The Red Rose

Legendary Entertainment in Plant City It was another amazing performance in the Red Rose Dining Room at the Red Rose Inn & Suites. The Tams came to town with their unique blend of Motown and beach music and they filled the restaurant with an electricity and energy that is hard to find in any performer today. Legendary founder Charles Pope and his son “Li’l Redd” led the band through their performances including classic hits like “What Kind of Fool,” as well as new material from their just-released album.

“You know what you’re getting when you come here for dinner and a show,” said Margret Bolton who was dining during the Tam’s performance. “You can count on great entertainment and great food. It is never a letdown to go.”

The turnout for the Tam’s performance was especially good. There were few empty tables for PJ Leary and his band who opened, and none by the time the Tams began. The Tams were founded in 1962 by brothers Charles and Joe Pope. They performed for $1.25 a show initially and all they could afford were matching Tam O’shanter hats to give the band a uni-

fied look. Eventually the hats led to the name and they have been called the Tams ever since. They had a number of Top 20 R&B hits through the years and have been inducted into the Georgia and Atlanta Halls of Fame. One of their biggest fans is no less than Jimmy Buffet who had the Tams open for him on one of his tours. “They are truly a great group of artists,” said Buffet.

Li’l Redd, Charles Pope’s son, has become a major influence on the band, infecting the group with energy and enthusiasm.

The Tams have performed with legendary artists like Gladys Knight and Jackie Wilson.

With a Platinum and two Gold records under their belts, they were an especially great group for the Red Rose Inn & Suites to book in November. The Red Rose has steadily and consistently built a reputation for being the place to go in Hillsborough County for top-notch dining and high-quality entertainment. They have established themselves in Plant City as a true destination and people come from as far as Orlando and Bradenton to watch the shows of the classic performers that come there to entertain.

Legendary Tams founder Charles Pope brings his trademark smooth voice to the Red Rose Dining Room.

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 122

Li’l Redd has clearly taken his role in the group seriously, as he has followed in his father’s footsteps. His energy and dancing as he sings is contagious and audiences are hard put to keep still while he is performing.

His feet move so fast they are almost a blur as he travels from the stage into the crowd and sings. His enthusiasm is so contagious that it is impossible not be drawn in to the performance. The Tam’s new numbers are just as great as their classics and that made for a show that was spectacular from start to finish.

The Red Rose Dining Room is located at 2011 Wheeler in Plant City, right off I-4. With their excellent accommodations, world-class menu and quality performers every weekend, it is a destination of its own in Central Florida. Throughout December, the Red Rose is hosting Brunch with Santa every Sunday and a special performance of the Yeary’s Ozark Mountain Christmas on December 22nd. For more information contact the Red Rose at 813-752-3141.

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FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 124

NOW SERVING OUR FAMOUS

STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE

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$2.59 AWARDS ARE BASED ON VOTES BY THE READERS OF FOCUS MAGAZINE. ALL VOTES MUST BE IN BY 12/31/07. VOTE FOR PLANT CITY RESTAURANTS ONLY. SHOW YOUR SUPPORT TO YOU FAVORITE PLACE TO EAT AND VOTE. TO VOTE LOG ON TO

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MAGAZINE

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 125

Dining Guide Bobs Sports Grill 226 Alexander St W. 719-8187

Kazbor’s Grille 2212 James Redman Pkwy 752-2700

Orange Blossom Tea Room 106 Evers St S 759-2247

Camellia Rose Tea Room 120 N. Collins St. 659-8287

Linda’s Crab Shack 202 Reynolds E 754-0492

Panera Bread 2909 James L Redman Pkwy 659-0864

Coffee 101 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd.

659-0101

Maryland Fried Chicken 315 N Alexander 752-9200

Red Rose Dining Room 2011 N Wheeler St 752-3141

Fred’s Market Restaurant 1401 W Dr MLK Blvd 752-7763

Munchies 1707 James Redman Pkwy 757-5900

Snellgrove’s Restaurant 109 S Collins 752-3652

Grandpa Johnsons BBQ 1305 Dr MLK Jr Blvd 759-0009

Olde Town Pizzeria 3011 James Redman Pkwy 752-5800

Strawberry Town 3161 Paul Buchman Hwy 754-8265

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FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 126

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 127

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FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;¢ december 15 - january 15 â&#x20AC;¢ Page 129

Event Calendar December 15, Saturday The Holiday Classic Men’s and Women’s softball tournament will be held and is accepting registrations through November 30 at $225 per team for a double elimination tournament. Register at the Recreation & Parks administration office, 1904 South Park Road.

Registration info is available at the PCRPD web site, www. plantcitygov.com/rec - click the Softball link, or you can contact Athletic Program Manager Larry Langston at llangston@plantcitygov.com or call (813) 659-4200 ext 4302.

The Strawberry Classic Car Show will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. in downtown Plant City. For more information, call (813) 754-3707.

The Mystics will perform at the Red Rose Dining Room.

For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www. redroseinnandsuites.com.

Jackie’s Dance Theatre offers its annual presentation of The Nutcracker at Plant City High School, from 11:00 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. For more information, call (813) 752-1683.

A Community Bible Study will be held at Coffee101 in downtown Plant City, beginning at 8:00 a.m. For more information, call Ronnie Carlough at (813) 263-8509 or Paul Long at (813) 967-2174.

Enjoy the holiday season as the City of Plant City Recre-

ation and Parks Department, along with several sponsors including the Plant City Boys & Girls Club, hosts Christmas in the Park, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center and East Boys & Girls Club.

Toys, bicycles, bags of groceries and more will be donated by area merchants, clubs, and churches. Toys will be distributed to all youths ages 5-12 in attendance. DJ Sam Miller will be on site to play music keeping everyone in the holiday spirit. There will also be live performances by local groups. EVERYONE IS INVITED!! Families must pre-register in order to receive the toys. For more information contact Recreation Supervisor La’Tosha Lewis llewis@ plantcitygov.com or call her at (813) 757-9195 or (813) 757-9196.

December 15 – January 4, Saturday – Friday Registration for Adult Softball Winter League play will be held at the Recreation & Parks administration office. Divisions are available for men, women, co-ed and church leagues, as well as a men’s double header league. $240 for the eight-game schedule, $410 for the men’s double header league. The season is slated to start mid-January.

Registration information is available at www.plantcitygov. com/rec under the softball link.

For more information, call (813) 659-4200 X 4302 or e-mail llangston@plantcitygov.com.

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 130

December 15th - January 15th

December 16, Sunday The Christian Community Chorale, will be present a concert “Most Requested, a selection of favorite secular and sacred Christmas carols” beginning at 3:00 p.m., at St. Clement Catholic Church. Admission is free. The Chorale is in their eighth season, and the annual Christmas concert has become a beloved Christmas tradition for many. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear your all time favorite Christmas songs, and to prepare for the joyous season of Christmas, when God gave the world the gift of His only son.

The Christian Community Chorale is comprised of approximately sixty singers from area churches, representing many different denominations.

Through their performances, the Chorale hopes to foster a stronger sense of Christian community within all denominations, and to allow all people to share in the musical celebration of their common Christian heritage.

December 20, Thursday The HAWKS (Happy Active Wise Knowledgeable Seniors) will be attending the performance of the Rockettes at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, departing at 1:00 p.m. and returning at 6:00 p.m.

Cost is $88 per person. For more information, call (813) 659-4200 X 4343 or e-mail dhaldane@plantcitygov.com.

The Plant City Photo Archives’ annual Holiday Reception is open from 4:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at their location to all members of the Archives and their guests at no charge, and will include an hors d’oeuvre buffet, refreshments, music and a special Holiday exhibit.

Non-members may attend for a fee of $10 per person. For more information, call (813) 754-1578.

December 22, Saturday Ralph Allocco and Second Wind will perform at the Red Rose Dining Room. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com.

The Red Rose Inn & Suites presents their Christmas Dinner Show, featuring the Yeary’s Pzark Mountain Christmas direct from Branson, P.J. Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds, in the Ballroom. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com.

December 23, Sunday Lord of Life Lutheran Church will have one combined service of worship at 10:30 a.m., A Service of Lessons & Carols (with Communion). For information, call (813) 752-6064.

December 24, Monday Christmas Eve. Lord of Life Lutheran Church will celebrate Christmas on

Event Calendar Christmas Eve, a Family Service at 5:30 p.m. and a Candlelight Communion Service at 11:00 p.m. For information, call (813) 752-6064.

December 25, Tuesday Merry Christmas!

December 29, Sunday Ralph Allocco and Second Wind will perform at the Red Rose Dining Room. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com.

December 31, Monday New Years Eve. Gary Lewis & The Playboys and The Mystics will be at the Red Rose Inn & Suites Ballroom to ring in the New Year!

For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www. redroseinnandsuites.com.

January 1, Tuesday Happy New Year!

January 5, Saturday Ralph Allocco and Second Wind will perform at the Red Rose Dining Room. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com.

A Community Bible Study will be held at Coffee101 in downtown Plant City, beginning at 8:00 a.m. For more information, call Ronnie Carlough at

December 15th - January 15th

(813) 263-8509 or Paul Long at (813) 967-2174.

call Carol Rodriguez at (813) 757-6234 or (813) 727-5214.

January 7, Monday

Ongoing Events

Cheryl Dow of the East Hillsborough Art Guild will have her work in Pyrographics at the Bruton Memorial Library. For more information, call Betty Jones at (813) 754-2859 or e-mail her at bettyjones2000-easthillsboroughartguild@yahoo.com.

January 11, Friday Ralph Allocco and Second Wind will perform at the Red Rose Dining Room. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com.

January 12, Saturday The Antique Market and Green Market will be held in downtown Plant City, beginning at 8:00 a.m. For more information, call (813) 754-3707.

Plant City Multiple Sclerosis Fundraising Committee presents Hollywood Nights.

100% of all proceeds will go towards Multiple Sclerosis research. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. at St. Clement Catholic Church’s Cronin Hall. Music, Dancing, Door Prizes and Silent Auction will all be included; dress up like a movie star or just simply come as you are. Tickets are $12 for adults, $7 for children, and include dinner. For tickets and more information,

Mondays: Beginner Square Dance Lessons are held at Strawberry Square from 6:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Caller/Instructor will be Roland Blanchette. For more information, call (813) 752-0491 or visit www.floridadanceweb.com/strawberry.

Tuesdays: Heart Health Screenings are held from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. in the main lobby of South Florida Baptist Hospital.

No appointments are necessary and no cost is required.

For more information, call (813) 754-4444.

Graduated Levels Line Dancing is held at Strawberry Square from 7:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. Instructor will be Sherry Nix. For more information, call (813) 752-0491 or visit www.floridadanceweb. com/strawberry.

Free Time Jazz performs at the Red Rose Dining Room, beginning at 7:00 p.m. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com.

Wednesdays: Knitting Group is held at Coffee 101 in downtown Plant City. For more information,

call (813) 659-0101.

Free Time Jazz performs at the Red Rose Dining Room, beginning at 7:00 p.m. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com.

Thursdays: Bluegrass Jam Session is held at Coffee 101 in downtown Plant City. For more information, call (813) 659-0101.

Beginner Round Dance Lessons are held at Strawberry Square from 7:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Cuers/Instructors will be Charlie and Leona Lovelace. For more information, call (813) 752-0491 or visit www.floridadanceweb. com/strawberry.

Destiny performs for Singles Night Out at the Red Rose Dining Room with special guest, Ralph Allocco. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com.

Fridays: Destiny performs at the Red Rose Dining Room. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com.

Saturdays: Destiny performs at the Red Rose Dining Room. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com.

FOCUS Magazine • december 15 - january 15 • Page 131

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