FOCUS Plant City 07-03 March 2008

Vol. 7 No. 3

PLANT CITY EDITION

spotlight

Marti’s Story

“He gave me the strength to run the second mile.”

Feature Relay For Life

Easter Worship Guide

RCA Award Winners

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 2

YBRIDS 2008 Chevy Tahoe

50% Better City Fuel Economy “2008 Green Car of the Year

2008 GMC Yukon

- Green Car Journal

The Hybrid taken to its logical extreme.

* ! - % 3 2 % $ - ! . 0 ! 2 + 7 ! 9 0 , ! . 4 # ) 4 9 s

tabl e o f co n t e nts

issue 7-3

feature 46-53

Plant City Teams Prepare for the April 18th & 19th Event

Relay for Life is a family friendly, fun-filled, inspirational and emotional 24-hour cancer fundraising event where teams of people across the nation gather at central locations to continuously walk or run laps. Every team tries to have at least one member walking at all times.

Find out how the Plant City community is getting involved!

local

7-41

The Festival may be over, but there’s lots of action still left in Plant City!

Check out our coverage of some of the Festival events, and find out what’s coming next.

business profile

60

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 of Plant City: Dance Carousel

sports & fitness

94-96

We bring you our regular sports page, but remember, we have also added a new Sports Highlights page. Has your team won a championship? Does your coach need an assistant? Does your team mom go above and beyond the call of duty? Let us know! We want to hear about it so we can share it with Plant City!

dining & entertainment

photo by sophia hyde

Staff Photos and Credits ........................... 11 Edward Jones ........................... 62 Success ..................... 63-64 Real Estate Section ..................... 67-87 Walden Lake Review ........................... 78 Real Estate Article ........................... 82 Local History ......................... 104 Al Ruechel ......................... 106 This I Believe ......................... 108

114-132

Ask Who What ......................... 110

Don’t forget, we now feature two Entertainment stories each month!

Check out our review of a new show at the Red Rose Dining Room, as well as A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, a great entertainment piece from the students at Plant City High School.

Words of Character ......................... 112

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 4

on the cover: Marti Lofstrom

spotlight 56-59 Each of our lives

is forged by events that loom large and forever change us. Call them turning points, crossroads or milestones. They cast us from what has always been to what will be forever. My epoch came when I heard the words I thought would always be meant for someone else: “You have cancer.” Read Marti Lofstrom’s story, in her own words.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 5

l e t t e r F R O M THE E D IT O R Have you seen the movie Chariots of Fire? Its score is one of the only songs I can remember how to play on the piano from lessons years ago! In one particular scene during the movie, Olympian Eric Liddell says, “I believe God made me for a purpose...and when I run, I feel His pleasure.”

Personally, I can’t say I feel the pleasure of God when I run. I don’t enjoy it at all; I do it because I know it’s good for me, and I push through it, as if it’s a droll obligation. The pleasure for me comes when I’m done!

But for a real runner…imagine with me for a moment. When a runner wakes up in the morning, his run is the first thing on his mind. When he steps out the door, with the wind at his back and the sun on his face, he pushes his body to the limit, pleased with how much he accomplishes as he moves along his route. Some of you may be able to relate a bit easier than others! But bear with me…

My run is different, and maybe yours is, too. When I sit down at the computer with an idea, and suddenly my hands begin to move quicker than they ever have across the keyboard, that’s my run. When I capture the moment in a photograph, knowing the position, color and quickness of the shutter was as close to perfect as you can get, that’s my run. When I speak in front of a group and people share with me that I made a difference in their lives, that’s my run.

Our issue this month is centered around a “run” called Relay for Life, and the differences it has made in the lives of a countless number of people in our community and beyond. Our Spotlight Interview is with a beautiful woman who has not only run the race but also fought the fight, and she has lived to tell her story. We hope you will be inspired by this issue, no matter if you have never had cancer, have fought it and won, have lost a loved one to the disease, or are battling it now in one way or another.

This Letter from the Editor is sadly my last “Focus Magazine Run”. I have been called to run another race, and, although the change is hard, I know it’s for the best. The people of Plant City can never know how much they have inspired me, and I hope, in a small way, I have done the same for them. My heart will miss what you all have shared with me, yet I know Focus Magazine will go on telling the stories, your stories, that so deserve to be told.

What’s your run? Everyone has something instilled inside of them, a gift they know did not come from themselves, and is still not their own. Pinpoint it, find it, dig for it if you have to. Find your run. And then let it loose.

With You In Mind,

Kristen Toney Editor in Chief FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 6

local talkofthetown

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

TALK OF THE TOWN On February 16, children from Plant City arrived at Lowe’s, and with the help of their parents and Habitat for Humanity volunteers, they built and painted little house banks.

Each child and house were assigned a business from Plant City that had previously agreed to host a little bank for Habitat. Julianna, Auston and Myles were the winners of the competition, and each received a $50 savings bond donated by Hillsboro Bank.

For the bank which collects the most money, an award of a $50 savings bond donated by Hillsboro Bank will be given to its creator, as well.

For more information on how you can become involved in Habitat for Humanity, the Plant City Chapter, contact Rachel Layman at (813) 754-3066 or e-mail pchabitat4hu@yahoo.com.

Machinery Technician Second Class Phillip N. Waldron was recently nominated for the prestigious Douglas A. Munro Award for inspirational leadership. Forward deployed with Patrol Forces Southwest Asia and assigned to USCGC WRANGELL (WPB 1332), Petty Officer Waldron has served overseas in an active combat zone since May 2007, where he has conducted a multitude of patriotic and perilous missions directly supporting Operation IRAQI FREEDOM and ENDURING FREEDOM. Phillip, we are

proud that one of our own is serving our country well! Congratulations on your nomination!

ecutive Vice President, Chief Lending Officer.

Welcome, Richard!

The YMCA is looking for a few good volunteers (currently and for summer programs). Come plan and help be a part of the fun at the YMCA. Contact Donna Hines at (813) 757-6677 for more information.

Well-known artist Robert Butler and his daughters will be drawing as guests arrive at the 21st Annual Rainbow Ball on April 26. Butler will auction off the creation later in the evening.

For more information on how you can attend the Rainbow Ball, contact Jodi Smith at (813) 757-8574.

Devin Colkmire and Laren Willaford were married at Plant City Church of God on February 2.

Congratulations to the new couple!

Clay Joyner (from Cork Elementary) won the 4-H Tropicana Speech Contest for all of 4th grade in Hillsborough County, and Carly Knox

Led by District 4 county commissioner and Plant City native Al Higginbotham, the Board of County Commissioners honored the “Winter Strawberry Capital of the World” in the 73rd celebration of the Florida Strawberry Festival at its regular meeting on February 20. In making the proclamation, the BOCC specially recognized February 28 through March 9 for the 2008 Florida Strawberry Festival and commended

the volunteers and past and present leaders who help make the event a success.

Farm Credit of Central Florida President, Richard Joyner, announced Craig A. Register, a Tampa native, has returned to the FarmerOwned Cooperative as Ex-

(from Walden Lake Elementary) won 2nd place for 5th grade. There were 16,000 kids that participated in this years contest. Congratulations to Clay and Carly!

Sonic and the Soul’d Out Youth Group at Plant City Church of God recently partnered together for their first annual Burger Bash. Sonic donated 600 burgers (seven coolers worth) of burgers for the event, which kicked off the youth group’s 30 Days to Live campaign, focusing on helping kids make better decisions. In the end, an 8th grade student won the contest, consuming 24 burgers in the allotted time. Thanks to Sonic and Soul’d Out, for working together for the benefit of our youth!

James “Sonny” Jones has been appointed to the Plant City Photo Archives, Inc. Advisory Council. Congratulations, Mr. Jones! We appreciate your contributions to our community!

continued on page 8 FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 7

local talkofthetown

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

TALK OF THE TOWN Kelsey Myers, a senior at Plant City High School, was recently selected by the MacK-

bachelor’s degree in civil engineering/structures and his master’s degree in civil engineering.

The wedding is planned for May 31 at First Baptist Church of Plant City.

The Plant City Optimist Club recently contributed $1,000 toward the Plant City Family YMCA’s Building Strong Kids Campaign.

Closshey and Steve Nierman. Congratulations to both of you on your new appointments!

The Phi Theta Kappa PTK Alpha Gamma Theta Chapter planted trees on the Hillsborough Community College campus recently as a part of Operation Green. Thanks to all who participated in making the campus more beautiful and environmentally friendly!

Bobby Richardson has been nominated for membership in the National Society of High School Scholars, an invitation-only honor. Congratulations on your achievement, Bobby!

innon Family Foundation as a recipient of a $2,000 scholarship. Six students were selected county wide in conjunction with the Hillsborough Education Foundation Online scholarships. Kelsey is planning to attend Hillsborough Community College and has applied to the Honors College. She has accumulated a 4.46 grade point average and is active in dance and theater and will graduate with honors from Plant City High School. Congratulations on your achievements, Kelsey!

Floyd and Mary Ann Hall of Plant City have announced the engagement of their daughter, Sara Elizabeth Hall to Geoffrey Allen Chambers of Jacksonville. The bride-to-be graduated from Plant City High School in 2003. She will graduate in May from the University of South Florida with her bachelor’s degree in civil engineering/transportation and her master’s degree in engineering management. The prospective groom is the son of Richard and Patricia Chambers of Jacksonville. He graduated from Stanton College Preparatory High School in 2001. He will graduate in May from the University of South Florida with his

Thanks to the Club and the Y, for working together for the benefit of kids in our community!

Eight local students participated in the annual Plant City Optimist Club Oratorical Contest on Monday, February 18, 2008 at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center in Plant City.

There was a girl’s competition and a boy’s competition, with six winners and two honorable mentions in the end. Amanda Williamson, Jamee Townsend and Lauren Morris were first,

Phil Waldron recently received the Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s Good Egg award.

Thank you for your dedication to our community, Phil!

Alison Grooms, the Nutritional Consultant at the Health Hutt Training Studio, along with Health Hutt trainers Vickie Tew and Sharla

second and third place winners for the girls, while Nathan Carson, Trevor Persaud and Nathan Cruzado won first, second and third places for the boys. The honorable mentions went to Andrew Orso and Harrison Gross. Congratulations to all!

Hattaway, put on a skit for students at Chris Welbon’s Family Karate Center to show the importance of eating healthy to prepare for their competition. Another example of how businesses in our town come together to benefit the young people of our community!

The Plant City Family YMCA would like to welcome two new Board Members: Charles

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 8

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 9

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 10

Mike Floyd Publisher

Meet the Staff of Focus Magazine

MAGAZINE

dede Floyd Office Manager

Publisher Mike Floyd mike@floydpublications.com Editor In Chief Ashley Grant agrant@floydpublications.com Office Manager DeDe Floyd dede@floydpublications.com Credit Manager Lori Boyle lboyle@floydpublications.com

ashley grant Editor in Chief

tammy simpson Sales

lori boyle Credit Manager

Ronnie Monk Account Coordinator

SALES Sophia Hyde shyde@floydpublications.com Tammy Simpson tsimpson@floydpublications.com Paula Meyers pmeyers@floydpublications.com Art Director Stefanie Burlingame Graphic design Anthony Sassano / Phil Ransdell

sophia hyde Sales

Paula meyers Sales

Phil ransdell Graphic Designer

Distribution Belva DeVane

sherry baldwin Writer

Photographer Billy Friend Staff Writers Brian West, Wendy Brown, Holly Mallalieu, Heather Davis, Cheryl Johnston, Sherry Baldwin, Daniel Sperry, Janeel Shulmister, David Shulmister, Joe Lane, Joe Bowles, Ken Lawrence

stefanie burlingame Art Director

anthony sassano Graphic Designer

cheryl johnston Writer

janeel shulmister Writer

Contributors Sherry Nueesch, Gil Gott, Al Ruechel, Jo-Ann Lusk, Michael Cameron, Bruce Rodwell, Natalie Sweet, Gamma Theta Omega Chapter FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants, and many local venues.

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

brian west Writer

holly mallailieu Writer

pat hearn Writer

daniel sperry Writer

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

published by:

floyd publications, Inc.

Joe Bowles Writer

Wendy Brown Writer

belva devane Distribution

doug McGee Distribution

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

local AROUNDTOWN

Story by Holly M a l l a l i eu / p hotos courte sy of P et e r Mot t l e y

Royal Maids Cleaning For A Reason It’s likely that in some way or another, you have come across an advertisement for Royal Maids

Peter and Pauline Mottley

whether you realized it or not. As a franchise, and an excellent company, its popularity is spreading. Peter Mottley and his wife Pauline, though originally from England, have been solidly operating their franchise for the past 16

B

years in Brandon. Recently the couple has even taken it one step higher. Collaborating with “Cleaning for a Reason�, a charity organization benefiting women battling cancer of any kind, the Royal Maid cleaning service is now lending a helping hand by offering these women free house cleanings. “Cleaning For A Reason� is the only foundation in America that offers to clean the homes of women with cancer for free. Any woman touched by this can contact the Royal Maids and receive 4 free cleans, 1 per month. It gives them all time to focus on getting better, and have one less thing to think about. Employees of the Royal Maid Service volunteer their own time, not receiving any payment. It is certainly a wonderful cause, and something that makes

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a significant difference. For Peter Mottley, cancer has touched his life personally through the loss of both of his parents, and he sees this as a way to help make something that can be so burdening a little lighter.

To contact the Royal Maid Service, call 813-657-6925, or visit their website at www. royalmaidservice.com. Peter will be more than happy to talk to anyone about the Royal Maid Service and Cleaning For A Reason.

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local tellyourtale

Sto ry a n d p hoto by Ja n e el C. Sh ul mist er send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Vashawn Gainer Marshall Middle School Student Leader

15-year-old Marshall Middle School honors student Vashawn Gainer proudly talks about school, family and the community.

Gainer has been raised in the supportive home of his grandparents for the past 13 years, and is very close to his siblings. “My sister and my brother, they really help me through my struggles,” he said.

“They’re here and there for me.

Whenever I need to go somewhere, they’re there for me.”

Glam Yourself

The straight A Student Council President enjoys school, sports, playing outside with friends, reading, doing chores and helping wherever help is needed; in the community, at home or church. “I love to go to church,” he enthused. Gainer is a member of Progressive Church of God of Christ and is active in the youth group.

Football, basketball and track are his favorite sports, and the eighth-grader enjoys the AVID Program taught by Mrs. Humphrey at Marshall. Gainer explained that AVID stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination, a program that helps prepare you for college and the future.

Vashawn Gainer

Gainer has big plans for his future; he wants to be a doctor, a bone specialist. His career plans started back in fifth grade after studying dinosaur bones. “They were interesting, but I thought human bones were more interesting,” he explained. “I want to learn more about how the human body bones form, how they do different kinds of things.”

Hair Makeup

Grandmother, Morris Dawson, is proud of Gainer and his siblings. “I would like for the young people to know that you can be whatever you set your mind to be,” she said. “That’s what I have always instilled in all three of them.”

Vashawn Gainer with Grandmother, Morris Dawson

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 14

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local AROUNDTOWN

p hoto from Fl oyd Publi c ati o ns arc hi ve s send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Send in Your Nominations NOW! Time to nominate someone for the “Focus on You� Makeover It’s that time of year once more: Focus on You Makeover time! If you know someone, male or female, who is in need of a makeover, we want to make it happen! Send a 300-word nomination in for them via mail, e-mail or fax. All nominations must be received by midnight May 16. Four winners will be chosen and notified on May 19.

The day begins with a breakfast and then the winners will be whisked away to pick out a brand

new outfit. Then they will be taken for a relaxing massage. After the massage, the staff of Focus will sit down for lunch with the winners and present each of them with a month’s membership to a fitness center.

The fun jump-starts again while the winners finish out the day with a facial, manicure, pedicure and haircut. The girls will also have their makeup done.

Finally, the day comes to a close when a limo comes to pick up the ladies and their sweethearts to get their pictures taken and enjoy an evening of dining and entertainment provided by the Red Rose Dining Room.

Last years’ winners with Evelyn Madonia at the Red Rose Dining Room.

Remember, tell us why your nominated person deserves this makeover and mail it to FOCUS

Magazine, “FOCUS ON YOU� Makeover, 101 E. J Arden Mays Blvd, Plant City, FL 33563.

You may also send your entries by e-mail to AGrant@Floydpublications.com. Place “FOCUS ON YOU� Makeover in the subject line and send your entry in the body of the e-mail (no attachments, please). Be SURE to include name, address, home phone number and work phone number, and e-mail address, if you have one.

You may also fax a nomination to 813-764-0990, Attn: Ashley.

Entries must be received by midnight on May 16!

Letters and entries may be published in FOCUS Magazine and photographs will be taken throughout the “FOCUS ON YOU� makeover day and published in the following month’s edition. ENTER NOW!

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 16

local artistofthemonth

story and photos by heather davi s send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Matt Rentz Consider The Hands that Create Art Ever wonder what may lie beneath the surface of the person who may bag your groceries or make your morning latte?

One may be excited to find out that behind that latte and a smile may be a budding artist. Such is the case when you visit Starbucks and meet barista Matt Rentz.

Rentz is a third generation Plant City native and a graduate from Plant City High.

He is now a student at H.C.C. with plans of attending the RingMatt Rentz with examples of his creative work ling School of Art to pursue a Fine Arts degree. Rentz’s interest in art began as early as kindergarten, where his teacher encouraged him to draw what he saw, not what others saw. His love of art followed him through school, where, during his senior year, he created an extensive art portfolio. During this process, he was chosen among all of Hillsborough County to represent Plant City in an art display at the Tampa Museum of Art. Rentz’s art was also selected for display at the Brandon Library.

Currently, Rentz’s main form of artistic expression is through acrylics and pastels. But he does not limit himself there; he also enjoys a wide variety of mediums such as whittling, carving, sculpting, metal works and paper mache. While painting, Rentz draws inspiration from music he listens to and from covers of old vinyl records he likes to collect. Rentz’s works do not conform or adhere to one certain style. He enjoys creating original one-of-a-kind pieces.

So next time you reach for that latte, consider the hands that offer it.

They may belong to an artist.

To view more of Matt Rentz’s work you may visit www.myspace. com/vintageartist07.

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local AROUNDTOWN

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

Stemming Frenzy Local Pride Beats All I love strawberries, though I’m not crazy about stemming more than a flat. Mim Galloway, Stemming event chairwoman, disclosed that 7500 acres of six varieties of berries are grown in the Plant City area. That’s an enormous amount of berries to individually pick, clean, and stem. The Strawberry Stemming Robert Lewis, Mim Galloway Contest on and Desree Maldonado celebrate Tuesday, the great stemming victory!

March 4th had contestants from far away Canada and Wisconsin while Plant City and Lakeland locals tried out-stemming the northerners.

Eight competitors wearing red aprons stood primed by twenty Pride of Parksdale berries.

Competing in six heats, the contenders anxiously awaited the whistle then ripped and gouged with their fingers. The enthusiastic crowd clapped and cheered: “Go Gator Girl,� “Come on Ontario,� and even “Come on Home Girl.� Volunteers blew a whistle when the first contestant finished the task. Every participant got to take fresh berries home, and several competed twice wanting to earn respect for their state.

The eight finalists stretched fingers, took the proper stance, and readied for the signal. A whistle blew and fingers flew tearing stems from succulent berries. Desree Maldonado originally from Pennsylvanis, but now Lakeland, won first place. She entered twice with friend’s

Strawberry stemming contestants rapidly stem plump berries.

encouragement. Desree’s secret was to scrape off the stem with her nails. For her efforts, Desree won a Dough Art refrigerator magnet and two 3:30 p.m. show tickets. One of her supportive friends lucked out! Robert Lewis from Bartow won second place and a magnet with his “grab and go� plan. This fun festival event was a crowd pleaser.

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local AROUNDTOWN

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

Lamb-Jumping Competition Raising the Bar…Really There are so many aspects to the Strawberry Festival that it is almost impossible to get to everything. One of these details is the lambjumping competition, something held every year that is certainly entertaining to watch.

The lamb-jumping contest is no more complicated than what is portrayed in the title; lambs of all sizes are ushered by exhibitors of all ages to make multiple jumps in hopes of finishing first. Each lamb is given two chances to jump, and must make one of the two in order to stay in the running.

This year’s contest held on March 3rd was as fun to watch as any year before. Though some lambs were

more willing to make the jumps than others, each competitor worked hard and did a great job.

1st Place winner of the longlegged competition, Staci Reed.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 20

Participants signed up for the competition just prior to the event itself. The first round of competitors were for the short-legged division of lambs, in which Ethan Fernandez placed 1st, Ethan Sistrunk 2nd, and Ashley Leonard 3rd. Following the short-legged victories the long-legged lambs took to the floor. The winners for this final contest were Staci Reed in 1st, with Brittany Coleman and Morgan Sistrunk tied for 2nd.

1st Place winner of the shortlegged competition, Ethan Sistrunk.

Though lambs are naturally good jumpers, the contest is designed to show the trust between the exhibitor and animal. Everyone who took part can be very proud, and congratulations to those who placed in top!

local AROUNDTOWN

Story and Photos by Jo e L ane send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Growing Their Own Education Local Youths Auction off Plants at the Strawberry Festival “$100! Let’s start the bid at a 100-dollar bill, can I hear $120?” The tent echoes with the sounds of the auctioneer as he tries to get the bids higher. After all, this is no ordinary auction, our very future depends on it--at

least the future of these kid’s education. All proceeds go to the child who grew the plant.

They are earning their own scholarships, with a little help from the Florida Nursery Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA). There are about 130 kids selling plants and a volunteer staff of 40 people. The age class is from 8-17 years old for 4H (Head, Heart, Hands, and Health) and 7th grade until graduation for FFA (Future Farmers of America).

The plants are judged according to uniformity, free of disease, lack of insects, well rooted, overall appearance and compared to others in its class.

Vanessah with her White Bird of Paradise

Raven with her prize-winning plant

Trent tried a pig two years ago, and it didn’t get accepted, so he switched to plants. This year he sold his Vetchi Gardenia for $800. He uses Palm Oil Soap to keep off bugs. To grow a prize-winning plant you have to, “Shape your plant, and follow the directions of the nursery owner you got it from,” says Trent. ‘’They know what they are talking about. ‘’ Shaun Steed, the president of the Tampa chapter of FNGLA said there is another plant auction in October, at the Florida State Fair Grounds.

They also raise money for scholarships.

Ribbons were handed out to many deserving children and even though not everybody gets one, these kids all win because they are raising finances for their future education.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 21

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 22

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Beautiful Babies Winning Crawls and Smiles How do you choose between precious bundles of smiling and cooing babies adorably dressed while their families look on? Proud parents and doting grandparents all know their baby is the best! This years’ cute-fest was judged by three out of county ladies: Leslie Phillips, Elaine Vandervoort and Marsia Bright. According to emcee Bonnie Bullard, retired Yates Elementary Principal, “These judges have been scoring for years.” This year the Decorated Diaper Contest, Baby Features Contest and Diaper Derby, all sponsored by Island One Resorts, were held in the larger Sweetbay Tent on Sunday March 2nd.

Christie Dean chaired this annual event, making sure everything went smoothly. All babies received a green ribbon while the winners earned a trophy.

In the decorated diaper contest, only diapers were judged, not the cute as a button kid.

Parents holding babies lined up according to categories, paraded in front of the cheering audience, then showed off decorated diapers to the judges. Savannah Schibler won the Strawberry Lights Camera Action contest wearing a fanny pack with pictures on the belt and Lights Camera Action logo covering her behind. The Funniest Diaper was Tucker Gardner’s “Gone fishing” with Tucker in a bass diaper and holding a fishing pole with a berry attached. The Kids TV Character trophy went

to Abigail Mullis, as Strawberry Shortcake with a bowl of shortcake diaper. The Most Creative Diaper went to Mavrick Covey with his diaper labeled as Toxic Waste.

There were so many future strawberry queens and kings in the Best Baby Features categories that I don’t know how the judges were able to pick a winner. Girls wore frilly strawberry dresses, matching booties, ribbons and bows.

Boys wore vested suits and ties, cowboy hats, plaid short outfits, a New York Yankees outfit, a sailor suit, and lots of dimples. Contests with huge numbers of babies were narrowed down to ten. Parents paraded in circles on the stage, showing off their children. Prettiest girl 6-9 months was Mackenzie Rae Garett. Prettiest girl 10-12 months was Jaeden Williams. Prettiest girl 13-15 months was Savannah Davis with beautiful long, curly hair. Prettiest girl 16-18 months was Peyton Jordan in a princess dress.

Most Handsome boy 6-9 months was Declan Doherty

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 24

wearing shamrock green. Most Handsome Boy 10-12 months was the smiley Gavin Zeringue.

Most Handsome Boy 13-15 months was London Christenson. Most Handsome Boy 16-18 months was John Acosta. Thomas Kriz had the Biggest Eyes. Caden Bryant had the Chubbiest cheeks. Dark haired Thalia Gonzalez had the Most Hair. Look-alike twins were Austin and Brennan Sparkman wearing matching cowboy outfits.

The annual diaper derby was a blast. Carpet was laid, moms and dads were positioned on either end, and babies were readied. A whistle blew; parents shook keys, bottles, a Pringles can, and a teddy bear to get their child’s attention. In the 6-8 month category, Ricardo Ysasi III crawled incredibly fast to his teddybear-holding mom. The 9-12 month category went into a crawl-off with Lane Baxter winning.

The big finale pitted Ricardo against Lane in an almost photo finish, but Lane pulled off the win at the last second. Parents Lindsey and Fred Baxter were very proud of Lane, who has two big sisters and is a super crawler at home.

Trophy or not, all parents were winners of blessings from above.

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AFTER

Small Enough to Care FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 25

local aroundtown

Story by Cheryl Jo hnsto n and K ri sten Ton e y / Photos Cou rte sy of the Cand i dates

Meet the Candidates

Dodson, Snyder & Sparkman Vie for City Commissioner Spot City Elections are fast approaching – what do you know about the candidates? We asked each individual the same questions, and their answers state that, no matter who wins the spot, Plant City is definitely in good hands.

Take some time to reach through this piece so you can make an informed decision.

Bill Dodson What do you see as the biggest challenges Plant City faces?

Without a doubt the biggest challenge facing the City of Plant City in 2008 -2009 has to do with Taxation Reform and insuring a continuous flow of city services at the level of service we currently enjoy. The current level of public services is supported by a tax base which has been decreased by a state mandated bi ll do dso n rollback of property values to the 2006-2007 level. The state Legislative mandate also required all cities to reduce its tax rates by 5 percent. In the spirit of the Legislative intent, the city was able to comply without having to reduce service levels, despite the loss of more than $1,000,000 in revenue.

The newest state initiated mandate know as Amendment 1 was passed overwhelmingly in January and requires all local governmental

jurisdictions to implement a new homestead exemption on all properties with an assessed value greater than $75,000. The additional $25,000 homestead exemption will decrease revenue coming into the City of Plant City by approximately $710,000,000 during 2008-2009.

Although there are several other important issues facing the city right now, I just want to comment on one other issue regarding growth and economic development. Questions presented by the state of Florida regarding limitations on Interstate 4 capacity have put significant projects on hold until such time as transportation systems which will support growth can be resolved. It is important to the economic vitality of East Hillsborough County to work on an equitable solution which involves the developers, the city, the county and the state of Florida.

What is your vision for the city in 5 years?

10 years?

During the past few years the City Commission has diligently studied and planned for improvements in the city infrastructure which would create opportunity and prosperity for our city’s residents. Among many plans we have made and continue working on are the Mid Town Redevelopment Plan, the Northeast Master Plan to guide development decisions for the area, and re-use of land through water line extension into the Coronet mining site. Each of these projects is long term in approach, but short term on return in investment.

During my term as Mayor in 2003-2004 the City Commission had a series of workshops to develop a Plant City Vision accompanied

by Elements of goals to achieve over the next three years. We also created a series of

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 26

initiatives which would help us obtain the goals we defined for our community.

Plant City is a model of good governance.

City government is effective, efficient, and financially strong. City Hall is open and accessible to the public, and its leaders continue a long tradition of being responsive to their constituents’ needs. Though the city continues to grow, its leadership does not distance itself from its residents. No one group is left behind when it comes to making decisions that affect Plant City. The city government assures citizen participation, which in turn contributes to a sense of wellbeing and quality of life.

What role can a city commissioner play in preparing Plant City for the future?

As an elected representative of your community you are asked to make decisions on a regular basis that effect the lives of those you most care about. You are elected because there are those who think you can do a good job at representing their interest for the betterment of the community. I take that trust placed in me as a very serious matter. I believe as a city commissioner we reflect the community values of our city. The legislative acts we make decisions on will guide the way for the future of our community. I only hope I am worthy of the trust placed in me to do our city and its residents right at moments when decision making is most difficult.

Dean Snyder What do you see as the biggest challenges Plant City faces?

I think budgeting is probably one of the meet t h e can didat es continued on page 27

THOMAS A. DIGERONIMO, M.D.,P.A.

local AROUNDTOWN

meet the candi dates continued from page 26

BOARD CERTIFIED NEUROLOGIST

GLENN D. TURNER, A.R.N.P. biggest issues that will come up. It is my understanding that state funding has been cut from Plant City in excess of $2 million.

This will definitely impact our general funds accounts, which operate services provided by the city, i.e. police, fire, maintenance, transportation; our bussing system unfortunately is operating on minimum funding.

Of course, we must pay for those services somehow. Our millage rate has held steady and the commissioners in the past have been able to manage. However, growth is inevitable. It is here and we must support this wonderful city.

dean snyder

What is your vision for the city in 5 years? 10 years?

My vision is shared with other commissioners. The fact that we are grown through annexation, natural growth of family units coming to Plant City is a natural pattern. Controlled growth with proper planning and development is needed. I want to see us grow and keep our warm Plant City feeling. We need more infrastructure to provide for this growth. For instance, the middle and high schools in town are both overcrowded and would not be able to accommodate many more students. Also, growth would mean that we need to adapt to being a multi-cultural community. I believe we can do this within 5 years. In ten years I believe midtown should certainly be on the move. Planning and process has already been implemented by our current city manager and commissioners. I would like to see this project blossom to where people all over the country talk about the unique characteristics of Plant City.

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What role can a city commissioner play in preparing Plant City for the future?

What do you see as the biggest challenges Plant City faces? m e et t h e c a n d i dat e s continued on page 28

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 27

m e et t h e c a n d i dat e s continued from page 27

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I believe the most important challenge for Plant City is to maintain our identity and to preserve our rich heritage and economic stability, as our city grows in this 21st century. It is important because a city is most often not defined by it boundaries, but by the energy of its people.

The future for Plant City has great possibilities; the challenges we face can be met if city government and the people of Plant City come together as a collection of caring people marked by a sense of place, values and purpose.

Mike spa rkma n

What is your vision for the city in 5 years? 10 years?

Although I have numerous goals, I have three major goals, or visions, for Plant City over the next three year commissioner’s term. Most importantly is to work with fellow commissioners to place the city into a strong financial position, so government will not burden citizens with tax increases. This can be done through thoughtful annexation to increase our tax base, a smart approach to impact fees to finance growth, and fiscal responsibility.

Secondly, my vision is to change the 1,600 acres of property on Park Rd. back to industrial to create more jobs for our citizens’ and increase our tax base.

Thirdly, my vision is to improve the infrastructure, city streets and services to the community without the need to raise taxes.

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My five year vision for Plant City is to complete the revitalization of our downtown historic district and continue to improve the “heart of our city.�

My ten year vision is the completion of the Midtown project and putting my leadership experience in government, banking, and private business to help that vision come true.

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What role can a city commissioner play in preparing Plant City for the future?

As a public servant the role of city commissioner is to represent the best interest of the people of Plant City. City commissioners are entrusted to protect the health, safety and welfare of the people.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 29

local aroundtown

Story and Photo by K r ist e n Ton e y send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

In His Own Words A Chat with Gus Bilirakis

W

ith much going on in politics these days, it’s great when one of our representatives chooses to spend time with us in Plant City. Congressman Gus Bilirakis enjoyed the Farm Credit Strawberry Breakfast during the Festival, and he gave us a few minutes of his time to share about new funding, Plant City Farmers and the rewards of representing this district.

Focus: You recently were able to obtain a significant amount of funds for the Plant City Police Department. How will that affect the lives of City residents?

Bilirakis: I think it’s going to cut down on their response time, because we’re updating their laptop computers in their police cars, and we’ve discussed this with the team, and they’re really excited about it, because this can be helpful and hopefully can keep people safe, and that’s the objective. We’re also updating the digital cameras for investigative purposes. Things are going to work a lot better. The important thing is to keep people safe, and with the about $131,000, which was what they asked for, things will be more efficient, the money will go to good use, and we’re happy to get it for them!

Focus: You are also actively involved in assisting farmers suffering from the affects of freezes in our area. Tell us why this is a priority for you.

Bilirakis: It’s a priority because farmers are the backbone of America! They’re wonderful, good, hardworking people who employ so many individuals and it’s not their fault that they have problems with the weather. They do so much to help themselves, the least we can do is to be very proactive and responsive. There are a lot of avenues available, and that’s what we want to

do is make sure that people know the avenues are there and we’re here to assist them.

Focus: Why is Plant City of special interest to you?

Bilirakis: It’s very special to me, first of all, because it’s in our congressional district.

Personally, because when we first came here in the early 80’s when my dad first ran for congress, people opened up their homes to us.

We didn’t stay at hotels. I’ve never seen that before! I’ve read about it, and seen it in the movies, how friendly and compassionate these people are. I’ve always had a special place in my heart for Plant City.

Focus: What would you say is the most rewarding aspect of your involvement in the Congress?

Bilirakis: Being able to help people and communicate with them and letting them know that I’m approachable, I’m accessible.

The other thing I like about it is representing people, and I think I’m a good representative of the people.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 30

To be able to share my job with them when they come up to Washington by taking them to the White House, the Capitol tours, eating at the Congressional dining room, I want people to know that they don’t have to know me personally, but I’m available for them. This is their office, it’s not my office. Also, to be able to help people; I’ve always wanted to serve and serving in the legislature was a great experience for me, and it’s just an extension of my service.

Thanks to Mr. Bilirakis, for taking the time to make Florida, and Plant City in particular, count in the big picture!

local aroundtown

Story and Photos by Dani el Sperry send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Citizen of the Year

Fred Johnson Honored for Dedication to City The Plant City Kiwanis Club held its annual Citizen of the Year award ceremony at the Red Rose Ballroom in February. Every year, the Kiwanis, along with other charitable organizations nominate local citizens based on their efforts over the years to improve the community.

This year’s winner was Fred Johnson, a life-long resident of Plant City.

Johnson, who owns Grandpa Johnson’s Restaurant has been a leading citizen for many years and has consistently volunteered his time and energy on behalf of the city for most of his life.

The award was announced at a luncheon at the Plantation House Inn with more than 150 local residents in attendance. Johnson was gracious in his acceptance of the award and commented about his years in Plant City. “This is the city I grew up in,” said Johnson. “This is a city I love.”

Johnson’s years as a restaurateur in Plant City seem to be evenly matched with his service on local boards, charities and volunteer groups over the decades. He has brought jobs and home style southern cuisine to the area and has made an impact on the lives of hundreds of locals. The Citizen of the Year award is given solely on the basis of

Fred Johnson gratefully accepts his award for Citizen of the Year

the years of unpaid service a person has dedicated to Plant City and is voted upon by the members of all Plant City’s charitable organizations. Johnson said he was thankful to the people of Plant City for the award and to his family and friends for working with him on so many projects.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 31

local aroundtown

Sto ry a n d p hotos by s h erry bal dwin send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Plant City Arts Council

18th Annual Chili Cook-Off The Plant City Arts Council’s 18th Annual Chili Cook-Off was recently held at the Depot in Downtown Plant City. CoChairs for the event were Sandi Norman (with a great deal of help from husband Rick) and Mac McGrath. A whole host of volunteers, including members of the Arts Council and their families, were on Lester Patrick and Sharon Everidge representing Jackie’s Dance Theatre & Gym hand to ensure that things ran smoothly. Emcee for the day was Michael Cameron. Cook-Off participants included a number of local businesses and individuals. Proceeds from the event will help to fund many wonderful programs, as well as scholarship opportunities available through the Plant City Arts Council.

Selected by a panel of judges, winners included: Spicy: 1st Place, Dean Snyder for City Commissioner, using Stanley Kolker’s own personal chili recipe. 2nd Place, Collins Street Transmission and Auto Care. Mild: 1st Place: Jackie’s Dance Theatre and Gym, and 2nd Place, Century 21 Shaw Realty Group.

Novelty: 1st Place, CruiseOne and 2nd Place, Dean Snyder for City Commissioner. In addition to these awards, attendees were given the opportunity to cast a vote for their favorite chili recipe. The People’s Choice Award was Susan McCaughey accepts then presented to Hallmark Mortgage award from Arts Council President Cheryl Worsham, Services, Inc. Later, during a moving in honor of her late husband tribute, Cheryl Worsham, President of John McCaughey. the Plant City Arts Council, presented Susan McCaughey with a beautiful plaque in honor of the hard work and dedication of her beloved husband John McCaughey, who passed away this past December.

Stanley Kolker keeping watch over his award winning chili recipe FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 32

For more information about the Plant City Arts Council, you may visit them on the web at: www.plantcityartscouncil.com.

local aroundtown

Story by Joe Lane / Photo Cou rt esy of th e City of P lant Cit y

Plant City Employee of the Year New Annual Tradition Helps Motivate Recently the Plant City Government voted in its first employee of the year, Lillian Garcia. In interviewing her, it’s hard to tell if she is excited about winning, or if her personality is always so upbeat!

The Person Lillian has had a few fun changes since winning.

She went shopping with her money! She won “because of the way I am” and enjoys the new interaction with her co-workers. Her daughter is currently going to USF. Her husband had a real-estate firm in New Jersey and she was his administrative assistant until he had a heart attack and a stroke so she takes care of him now. She still enjoys visiting her family in New Jersey, and vacations there about once a year. She lived in ‘Jersey for 30 years and her brothers and in-laws live there. She moved to Plant City and worked at an attorney’s office in Lakeland but quickly started looking for a job with less of a drive. The community services job at Plant City was closer to home, so she went ahead and took the job. She says Plant City is a great place to live and work she loves it here. Most of what she does concerns affordable housing and the bus route. She said the Door to Door program is working out great, where Plant City’s bus lines will pick you up at your door and take you anywhere in Plant City for $3. It is very popular, and keeps her busy. The affordable housing is also popular. It encompasses all of Hillsborough County.

ment employees who perform above and beyond expectations in their contacts and job performance, including: role modeling values, courtesy to others, performing duties with enthusiasm, perfect attendance, good attitude and pride in being a City team member.

A volunteer committee is formed and they meet to vote on and organize the eligible contestants.

They vote based on information from fellow employees and according the guidelines of the contest.

The idea came from the South Florida Baptist Hospital. With a few minor changes it was made more applicable to the city’s needs. It has been very successful so far, and there is a lot of excitement about the whole idea.

The Prize Her award for winning is $500, a commemorative plaque, a photograph, and article in the City Newsletter and recognition at the annual employee service awards luncheon. She is enjoying the respect and admiration of her fellow employees. To qualify she won employee of the month for August, and received $100, a plaque, and a photograph and article in the City Newsletter.

Plant City has always had good people working together that it seems to draw from all over the country. Now it has award-winning employees working at its heart, keeping things moving smoothly and making the city look great.

The Process To qualify for employee of the year, the employee must be nominated by co-workers and have exemplary behavior throughout the year, not just a single act (taken from the City of Plant City program guidelines).

The Employee of the Year is chosen by popular vote of all full-time regular employees from the 12 employees of the month chosen that year. That ballot is distributed at the beginning of the year.

Its purpose is to recognize those non-manage-

Left to right, back to front: Commissioner Mary Thomas-Mathis, Vice Mayor/Commissioner Robert Brown, Commissioner Dan Raulerson, Mayor Rick Lott, Commissioner Bill Dodson, Finalist Wayne Abercrombie, City Manager David Sollenberger, Employee of the Year Lillian Soria, Finalist Millie Stewart.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 33

local AROUNDTOWN

Story by Wendy S. Brow n / p hotosby bil ly f ri end

Catch the Excitement!

Babies Parading in Style!

Plant City is full of treasures, our children. What a treat it was to watch adorable one to four year olds strut their stuff at the 2008 Baby Parade.

GFWC Plant City Junior Woman’s Club sponsored tradition and adorable cuteness.

Two hundred youngsters dressed as Buccaneers, I Love Lucy, Strawberry Queens, Farmers, and even Oz’s Dorothy competed while proud parents and grandparents cheered who was first place in their hearts.

Strawberry Queen Katie Scherer emceed the program of chubby cheeked walkers and costumed kids on homemade elaborate floats.

Check out the winners!

One year old division Most Handsome First: Guadalype Villanueva, Second: Wyatt Drawdy, Third: Mason Singleton.

Most Beautiful First: Emaleigh Bradshaw, Second: Hannah Zink, Third: Abigail Spivey.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 34

Healthiest First: Amelia Boise, Second: Skylar Barber, Third: Carson Battram.

Best Costume First: Kinleigh Duncan, Second: Tanner Oneal, Third: Makayla Register.

Most Personality First: Karson Hadsall, Second: Jaida Davis, Third: Easton Morrow.

Most Original Float First: Leah Gainer, Second: Bailey Polk, Third: Garcie Garner.

Most Beautiful Float First: James Abercombie, Second: Wyatt Walmsey, Third: Paisley Jean Hinson. cat ch t h e excit emen t continued on page 36

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 35

local AROUNDTOWN

catch the excitem ent continued from page 34

Two year old division Most Handsome First: Tegan Coleman Christie, Second: Justin Layton, Third: Garret Reinhold.

Most Beautiful First Caris Schneider, Second: Racie Carter, Third: Mary Theresa Vaughn.

Healthiest First: Chase P. Simpson, Second: Saige Marie Starford, Third: Paige Zarecor.

Best Costume First: Savanah Grace Abrams, Second: Colby Brewington, Third: Brooklyn Zajac.

Most Personality First: Ali Mae Edison, Second: Jayden Brown, Third: Gianna Martin.

Most Original Float First: Skyler Grooms, Second: Hanna Watson, Third: Sierra Kovaks.

Most Beautiful Float First: Aidan Grooms, Second: Lilly Hall, Third: Taylor Bell.

Three year-old division Most Handsome First: Judson Wade Smith, Second: Philip Simmons, Third: Harrison Kinney.

Most Beautiful First: Emma Grace Livingston, Second: Alyssa Delgado, Third: Breanna May. Healthiest First: Mara Green, Second: Kylie Martindale, Third: Gerald Williams.

Best Costume First: Giselle Guterras, Second: Mickensie

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 36

Harkins, Third: Erika Petrosa.

Most Personality First: Phisaria Brower, Second: Breanna Sterges, Third: Ansley Bates.

Most Original Float First: Damian Rodriguez, Second: Emma Showalter, Third: Haley Bell.

Most Beautiful Float First: Reagan Gride, Second: Emma Stephens, Third: Quintan Kahelin.

Four-year old division Most Handsome First: Quinta Silas, Second: Carson Simpson, Third: Hayden Patrick.

Most Beautiful First: Tori Wegner, Second: Riley Queen, third: Cooper Tharrington.

Healthiest First: Emma Grace Butts, Second: Marianna Guttierez, Third: Roby Runkles.

Best Costume First: Jaden Deagan, Second: Haeley Maxwell, Third: Alyssa Creekmore.

Most Personality First: Rylee Van Strander, Second: McKenly Baker, Third: Blake Zajau.

Most Original Float First: Gracy Gillespie, Second: Mary Boyce, Third: Lucy Raburn.

Most Beautiful Float First: Suzanna Mazariegos, Second: Jasie Crabb, Third: Owen Westover.

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FOCUS Magazine plant city â&#x20AC;˘ march 15 - april 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 37

local AROUNDTOWN

Story by Ruche lle Ow ens / Photos Cou rte sy of Cou rtney Si ngletary

Cheer On!

Durant Varsity Cheerleaders Win Championship The beautiful young girl is tossed effortlessly in the air, where she kicks her long legs, spins gracefully twice, and is caught with ease by her confident assistants below. This maneuver, called a basket toss, is just one of the many difficult stunts that helped earn Durant High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Varsity Cheerleading squad first place at the Hillsborough Cheerleading Championship. For the last two years, Durant has taken second place behind Bloomingdale, the reigning champs for the past four years. This year, however, Bloomingdale will have to settle for second place. â&#x20AC;&#x153;[The girls] had great dedication, and were constantly practicing and working hard; this is a huge accomplishment for them,â&#x20AC;? proudly exclaims Coach Kristen Colgan. Working since August, the 20 girls added more practices than were originally scheduled. Although

the competition had a score card, there were no official requirements, allowing for more flexibility and creativity from the participants.

Durantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s girls came up with their routine all on their own. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The hardest part is having the same 20 girls since August and getting past the emotions,â&#x20AC;? says Head Captain Sandy Martin.

Co-Captain Erin Carson laughs and agrees, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re familyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;we fight and we get along.â&#x20AC;?

Their hard work has paid off and is especially significant to girls

who have been on the squad for three years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve worked really hard. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m extremely proud of our team for going out and doing it,â&#x20AC;? says Carson. Colgan proudly agrees, â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is what theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been working for.â&#x20AC;?

One of the many stunts that wowed judges.

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FOCUS Magazine plant city â&#x20AC;˘ march 15 - april 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 38

local AROUNDTOWN

Story by Kriste n To ney / P hoto Cou rtesy of L MP C Moms send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

It’s Time to Say Goodbye To the 2007 Little Miss Plant City Queen and Court On March 29, a new Little Miss Plant City Queen and Court will be selected, but our 2007 group of gals have put lots of work into their titles. Let’s take a look back!

For 2007 Queen Carly Knox, “The night of the pageant and making so many new friends are the best parts of being Little Miss Plant City!” She, along with First Maid Mandy Janes and Court Members Kaitlyn Brevik, Brianna Lee and Megan Rogers have worked hard in their community this past year. They’ve participated in a large number of events, including Relay for Life, a favorite memory for Court Member Brianna Lee. “I enjoyed going to Relay for Life and raising money for cancer awareness,” she explained,

part of the year was when we went to Lincoln and helped out with fitting the kids with shoes. It made me feel good to be able to be a part of a good cause, and it made the kids happy to get new shoes!” First Maid Mandy Janes agrees with Megan in regards to the shoe project, and also likes that “I made four new best friends!”

2007 Little Miss Plant City Queen and Court at Relay for Life.

“Because I lost my great-grandmother to cancer.”

The shoe project at Lincoln Elementary is something that hit home with Court Member Court Megan Rogers, who stated, “My best

HOPEWELL Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens

“One of my favorite things was the Children’s Health Fair,” Court member Kaitlyn Brevik enthused. “And I’ve enjoyed making new friends!”

Thanks to each of these little ladies and their families, for taking the time to represent Plant City well throughout 2007. We appreciate you all!

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ONE LOCATION FOR ALL YOUR SERVICE NEEDS 813.737.3128 • 6005 STATE ROAD 39 SOUTH • 1/2 MILE SOUTH OF STATE ROAD 60 FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 39

local AROUNDTOWN

submit ted by b ruc e ro dw ell / P hotos by S usa n W i lson

Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce

GTE Federal Credit Union/2201 James L. Redman Parkway

Collins Street Transmission & Auto Care/600 South Collins Street

In last month’s column, it was stated that the Antique Street Fair and Green Market was a Chamber event. This was incorrect. The Antique dealers themselves put on this event.

HHHHHHHHHH Congratulations to Bob Edwards on being named Plant City’s Honoree at the Friend’s of Scouting Luncheon, which was held at the Wesley Centre on February 21st. Bob became an Eagle Scout at the age of 17, earning 22 merit badges.

This annual event helps support the cost of Scouting for the 15 Scouting Units in Plant City.

HHHHHHHHHH Congratulations also to Fred Johnson on being named Plant City’s Citizen of the Year; a very well deserved honor. Fred is a Past Chairman of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce.

HHHHHHHHHH On January 29th, the United Food Bank of Plant City held their Fall Food Drive Awards Breakfast at the Community meeting room at South Florida Baptist Hospital. The food drive runs from November 1st to December 24th each year. In all, a total of 53,434 pounds of food was collected, which is an increase of 5,000 pounds that had been donated in 2006. A special thanks to Barbara Franques for approving the participation of Area Six Schools in the Plant City area in this effort. Those schools collected a combined total of 42,359 pounds of food.

Of particular mention is the fact the Tomlin Middle School brought in 7,746 pounds, followed by Turkey Creek Middle School with 6,352 pounds and Walden Lake Elementary with 3,575 pounds.

Kelleigh Klein, Executive Director of the Plant City United Food Bank stated this Food Drive was extremely helpful, as their client numbers have increased significantly due to the tough economic times. In 2007 the Food Bank served over 7,800 clients compared to some 5,500 in 2006. The number is expected to be even higher this year.

The United Food Bank is located at 712 East Alsobrook Street in Suite #9.

They are always looking for donations of food and personal care items to help the needy of the Plant City area.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 40

HHHHHHHHHH On March 20th, the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce BUSINESS AFTER HOURS will take place at the Alday-Donalson Title Agency, Inc., 1701 South Alexander Street, Suite 103-4. Come on out and meet your Chamber members. Be sure to call the Chamber office at 813-754-3707 to let them know you will be attending.

HHHHHHHHHH The City of Plant City Recreation & Parks Department will hold the 19th Annual City Wide Easter Egg Hunt at Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex on Saturday, March 22nd from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This is a free event and has provided local families a safe and entertaining way to enjoy the spring holiday. In the past, over 1300 area youth have participated in this great family event.

HHHHHHHHHH Speaking of the United Food Bank, here is a fun way you can help. They are holding a golf tournament at Walden Lake Golf & Country Club on Friday, March 28th. Tournament sign-in is at 11:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at 1:00 p.m. Immediately following the tournament there will be an awards ceremony and dinner. Sponsorships are available. For more information and an entry form, call Kelleigh Klein at 813-764-0625.

HHHHHHHHHH On March 29th, the Plant City Photo Archives will present “AN EVENING OF PICTURE PERFECT MEMORIES”. This event will take place at the Red Rose Ballroom, Red Rose Inn & Suites, and starts off with a champagne reception at 6:30 p.m. The photo exhibit theme is “School Days”. The Photo Archives encourages you to submit your school picture to them so it can be included in the exhibit. Interesting features of this evening are continuous elegant Hors d’oeuvre, a complimentary wine bar, a historic photo exhibit, live jazz, a complimentary photograph corner, and to top it off, a Heritage Award Presentation.

Reservations may be made through the office at 119 North Collins Street or by calling 813-754-1578 for additional information. ********** The Plant City Pregnancy Care Center will hold a “Walk For Life” at Plant City Stadium on Saturday, March 29th. Registration is at 8:00 a.m. with the Walk taking place at 9:00 a.m. You can call the Pregnancy Care Center at 813-759-0886 for additional information.

p lant city cham ber continued

Kelleigh Klein and Tomlin Middle School staff (Susan Sullivan, Bethani Skiffington and Beth Anne Pearce).

HHHHHHHHHH The Little Miss Plant City Pageant will take place at Plant City High School on March 29th, starting at 6:00 p.m. Tickets for this fun event are $10. For information call Bobbie Ehrenfeld at 813-967-2597.

ANIMAL CLINIC AT SOUTHSIDE

HHHHHHHHHH Hillsborough Community College 40th Anniversary Expo will take place Saturday, April 5th at the Trinkle Building at the College. Call 813-757-2103 for additional information.

HHHHHHHHHH Do you like airplanes? The Annual Sun N’ Fun Fly In takes place at Lakeland Linder Airport from April 8 through the 13th. This event is always great fun.

Come on out and see some vintage airplanes and enjoy some great exhibits.

HHHHHHHHHH Don’t forget the Children’s Golf Classic at the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club on April 18th. There will be a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. with a delicious dinner following. Call Jodi Smith at 813-757-8574 for additional details. If you would like, you can e-mail her at jodi.smith@baycare.org

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HHHHHHHHHH The American Cancer Society’s Annual Relay for Life will take place April 18 and 19 at Plant City High School. Registration is at 4:00 p.m. on April 18th.

For additional details, call Lauren Erickson at 813-685-0670, extension 112.

HHHHHHHHHH Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the 11th Annual Strawberry Classic Car Show, which will take place in downtown Plant City on Saturday, April 19th.

This event gets underway at 4:00 p.m. and goes on till 9:00 p.m. A special attraction for this show will be an appearance by the Southern Star Bluegrass Band. You won’t want to miss this great Chamber fun filled event.

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 41

O

n a crisp, cool February morning, Doug Bryan’s voice boomed above the sound of car engines as parents arrived to drop their children off at Knights Elementary School. “Hey, good morning!

Help us support cancer research!” Long before the start of the school day, before pencils were sharpened and attendance was taken, before the academic lessons began, Bryan and several staff members were teaching their students and families lessons about community, compassion, teamwork, courage and hope.

Plant City Teams Prepare for the April 18th & 19th Event Story by Janeel Shulmister Photos by Janeel Shulmister & Courtesy of Brianne Eddinger, Jerry & Cindy Evans, Linda Herman, Nia Ramo and Peggy Welch

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 46

Knights Elementary is one of the many local organizations in Plant City that have a Relay for Life team. Relay for Life is a family friendly, fun-filled, inspirational and emotional 24-hour cancer fundraising event where teams of people across the nation gather at central locations to continuously walk or run laps. Every team tries to have at least one member walking at all times. “The whole idea is cancer never sleeps, so somebody is there round the clock,” stated Knight’s social worker, Cheri Holster. Plant City teams will meet on Friday, April 18th at Plant City High School located at 1 Raider Place, and walk through the night into the next day.

Holster’s beautiful smile greeted each student as they exited their car. As parents drove through the car line, they gladly gave money to Bryan and the other staff members in exchange for a dozen Dunkin’ Donuts, one of the school’s many fun Relay for Life fundraising projects they do throughout the year. Dunkin’ Donuts gives the school a special price so they can raise money for the cause. Last year the school made $12,000 and was the top earning elementary school for the event, explained Linda Herman, Early Exceptional Learning Program Teacher and Knight’s Relay team captain. The passion Knight’s principal Linda Bailey and her staff have for Relay for Life reaches far beyond the boundaries of their school campus; “It’s such an integral part of who we are because we feel like we represent our whole community with this monster disease,” said Bailey.

Relay for Life • Relay for Life • Relay for Life • Relay for Life • Relay for Life • Relay for Life • On that February morning, Holster played the role of banker and kept track of the donated funds. Each box purchased symbolized hope to the staff, a close-knit school family that has been deeply touched by cancer.

Holster, a cancer patient herself, stated how much Relay for Life meant to her and the school. “This is kind of a special year for me because I’m a cancer patient now and we have a couple of folks here at our school that are survivors or are newly diagnosed and going through it so it’s kind of a special year for all of us.”

Relay is indeed special to the staff of Knights; last year they lost beloved first grade teacher Amanda Carter to cancer. Not only was Carter a gifted educator at the school, she was also a member of their Relay team. “She was always on our team,” said Herman. “She was a driving member.” Although still heartbroken by her passing, the staff has honored Carter by creating a computer lab in her memory.

The Amanda Carter Computer Lab is currently under development. The staff voted to use part of the funds awarded for their “A” school grade, to finance this dedication.

Not far from Knights on a perfect Sunday morning, purple tablecloths, balloons and fun decorations transformed the Parish Hall at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church into a Relay for Life extravaganza. The church’s Relay for Life team was hosting a fundraising breakfast. Purple is the official color of Relay for Life and St. Peter’s shared the “Power of Purple” and the passion for their cause with all who attended.

Founded just four years after Plant City was incorporated, St. Peter’s is rich in history. “This is the 100th year anniversary of our beautiful building, the sanctuary of the church,” said Quincey Thoeni, St. Peter’s Relay co-captain. As part of their centennial celebration, they wanted to find special ways to connect with people in the community, as well as bring their own church community together. Relay for Life was one way they could share their mission; they started their team this year. For over a century, families of the church have walked a life of faith together. On April 18th of this year, they will be walking together in faith for life.

When she was a student at Plant City High School, Brianne Eddinger, a member of St. Peter’s, was always a part of Relay for Life. She was on teams, walked and raised money all through her high school career. This year, however, she will be involved in a much more personal way; 22-year-old Eddinger has been selected as an honorary cancer survivor.

It was a choking sensation in Eddinger’s throat, initially considered a small problem that brought her to her family doctor, a cancer survivor himself. He quickly suspected some thing far more serious. A CAT scan done that same day showed huge masses in Eddinger’s chest. “They were wrapped around my lungs, my heart and it was also wrapped around my trachea, almost to the point of choking me. That’s why I was having a choking sensation,” shared Eddinger. During her third year at the University of South Florida, she was diagnosed with a rare form of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and has been undergoing treatment since April of 2007 at All Children’s continued on page 50

Top: Doug Bryan wears a shirt in honor of beloved Knight’s Elementary first grade teacher Amanda Carter.

Middle Left: Emily Evans and Nia Ramo Middle Right: Quincey Thoeni and Brianne Eddinger Bottom Right: Knight’s Elementary Relay for Life Team

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 47

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 49

Relay for Life Plant City Teams Prepare for the April 18th & 19th Event

The support surrounding this family is astounding.

With the blessing of their employers, every month, Emily’s parents alternate two-week shifts with her in New York and are able to work remotely during her treatment. 20-year-old sister Caitlin does everything possible to be by her side and The Plant City Juniorettes, in which Emily is a member, have established “The Emily Evans Fund”. This $20,000.00 fund will be available, not only to the Evans family, but to other Plant City families with critically ill children as well, explained Nia Ramo. Students from her school are signing their paychecks over to the fund, businesses are donating profits and raising funds; everyone is contributing to the energetic and spirited young teen. “She’s my hero!” said her father.

The St. Peter’s Relay for Life Team

Hospital in St. Petersburg under the care of Dr. Jerry Barbosa.

Listening to Eddinger share her story is inspirational; her courageous battle has not weakened her spirit.

In fact, it has strengthened it. She has faced her disease, her treatments and the serious complications that have come as a result while still going to school full time. The history major plans on attending grad school in the college of social work with a focus on counseling. Her diagnosis and treatment have allowed her to see the need and opportunity in the pediatric field. It has also inspired her to reach out to the youth of the Plant City community and share the message that cancer has no age limits.

November she was still sick and it was obvious she had something much more serious. Additional testing found a mass, and in December, the 15-year-old Plant City High School student underwent surgery.

She was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare form of childhood cancer. From the options presented, her parents, Jerry and Cindy Evans choose to take Emily to Sloan-Kettering in New York for treatment and have been amazed by their decision. “It is an absolutely incredible hospital,” said Cindy Evans.

In past years, Emily has walked with her mom at Relay for Life in honor of both of her grandfathers who died from cancer. They would always participate in the evening’s Luminaria Service, often described as the most moving part of the event. During this tribute, lighted candles are placed inside decorated bags in honor of someone special who has been affected by cancer. These bags are place around the track at Plant City High and glow as a symbol of hope.

“We’ve had the bags out there, every year lighting the bags in remembrance of them,” stated Cindy Evans. “Never in our wildest dreams did we think our daughter would be diagnosed with cancer.” This year, the track will be filled with people walking and hoping for Emily. There will be many candles burning in her honor.

16-year-old Mark Killebrew, a cancer survivor for 13 years, can also attest to Eddinger’s message.

Although he doesn’t remember much about having cancer, his mother, Shawn does. “It turns your life around,” she said. One day he was a seemingly healthy three-year-old child and then the next he was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, found on his tonsils. Immediate surgery was done and his cancer was caught in the very early stages. Today, Killebrew is the Relay for Life team captain for his church’s youth group, The Loft, and challenges other youth groups in the area to become involved. He is excited by Relay for Life. “Just to see everyone having fun and all working for one cause, getting rid of cancer, is really amazing.”

Antibiotics didn’t seem to be working for Emily Evans when she appeared to have a cold last August. By

Knight’s Elementary Relay for Life Team

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 51

Relay for Life Plant City Teams Prepare for the April 18th & 19th Event

Although she will be receiving treatment until next August, Emily is doing very well and her tumor has been drastically reduced. As with everything she does, Emily brings humor and smiles with her and wins the hearts of those she meets. The situation she faces now is no different. When clumps of her gorgeous blonde hair began to fall out, she told her mom what she would do: “Mom, I’m going Brittney!”

Just as cancer knows no age limits, it also has no concept of time. In some cases, such as that of 56-year-old Peggy Welch, the speed at which it came was incredible. “Last year my mammogram was fine, and this year I was full. It grew that fast,” she said. Welch was diagnosed with DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ), a cancer that is found in the milk ducts, and in July of 2007, her right breast was removed. Not long after her surgery, she returned to her job at Mastertaste Inc. and to the compassion and support of her many coworkers.

She considers each day a gift. “I am alive and bless God each day I wake up, she said. “Life looks a lot different today.” Welch, also selected as a Relay for Life Honorary Cancer Survivor, is a strong advocate for

yearly checkups and encourages everyone to have them.

Both Eddinger and Welch consider it an honor to have been selected to share their stories at this year’s Plant City Relay for Life event. With 64 registered teams, there will be many participants. “Everyone’s reason for participating in Relay are different; some relay in memory of a loved one who lost the battle, some relay for a loved one who is currently fighting the battle, and some relay in support of finding a cure. No matter what your reasons are for participating in Relay, we are all brought together as a community to share special memories and create life-long friendships,” explained Carol Ann Mayo, Plant City Relay for Life chair. Mayo’s participation in Relay for Life inspired her own daughter, Lincoln Elementary Magnet fifth grader Danielle, to start a team. Made up of several family members, the team has found success in their fundraising efforts. “It’s been great!” Danielle exclaimed.

Students in the Plant City community are very aware of Relay for Life. According to Barbara Franques, Area Director for Area VI Schools, there is one hundred per-

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 52

Amanda Wingert, Brianne Eddinger & Chris Hotchkiss.

“Both of which are my friends who came to support me at last year’s Relay for Life,” said Eddinger.

Relay for Life Plant City Teams Prepare for the April 18th & 19th Event

cent participation by all schools. Each year, Franques is astounded by the creativity and the dedication they have for the cause. What is truly amazing to Franques is how they involve the students. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Not only is it important for us as adults to give, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important for us to teach children the value of giving and supporting and being a service to others,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It certainly builds character in children but it also helps us all remember what our responsibilities are to one another.â&#x20AC;?

Beloved first grade teacher Amanda Carter. The school has dedicated a computer lab in her honor.

According to The American Cancer Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cancer Facts & Figures for 2007, more than 1,500 people were expected to die from the disease each day. An estimated 1,444,920 new cases were anticipated in the United States, 106,560 of those in Florida alone.

The statistics are frightening; Florida is second in the nation for new cases, surpassed only by California.

This is what makes research, supported by events such as Relay for Life, so crucial.

The goal of the 2008 Plant City Relay for Life is

Knightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Elementary social worker Cheri Holster and principal Linda Bailey. The school supports the entire community.

to raise at least $250,000.00, but the event is much more than a fundraiser. Eddinger bravely explained, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really an event where people come together to celebrate life and honor those who are no longer with us and those who are currently fighting.â&#x20AC;?

For more information on Relay for Life visit www. relayforlife.org.

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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 experience 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.

h,UNCH $INNER -EALSv 0AGE

THE 7HO IS 'RANDPA *OH Spring 2005

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donĘźt know is the story behind the days were spent in name and who Grandpa Johnson biinto with getďŹ elds andthe porch practicing together. in Tampa hisout father.

This Elton still smiles as characters hang really is. he was especially hard for Elton, own backyards. This right in our shouting zarre scrapes remembers â&#x20AC;&#x153;hawâ&#x20AC;? and Tribune who â&#x20AC;&#x201C; like most young boys Tampa former Dorsey, at the is Timâ&#x20AC;&#x153;geeâ&#x20AC;? mule, and laughs Ninety years ago, in the author â&#x20AC;&#x201C; would have rather been right hereasin little townand he will be speaking runhe remarks that kids today donĘźt of Opp, Alabama, Elton reporter, ning and playing games with on May Johnson knowCommunity what those Room his words mean. was born on April 28th. As own Moody ourthe friends. Even so, those Sunday 7pm. oldest son among 8 children, 5th at afternoons instilled a strong he EltonĘźs father was a musical famquickly learned the value ily bond in the Johnson clan. to of hard movedman sawin toIndiana, it that every washeborn work. By the time he wasTim Dorseyand a small 7 or inchild played and grew up an 1, instrument. age of 8, old enough to hold a plow, the Sunday Florida In 1932, at the age of 17, his at afternoons wereof Miami called Elton on the front moved south town about an hour north spent with his family. from Auburn graduated He Riviera Beach. a B.S. in TransportaUniversity in 1983 with he was editor of the tion. While at Auburn, Plainsman. student newspaper, The he was a police and courts From 1983 to 1987, Journal, the now-dereporter for The Alabama Montgomery. He in funct evening newspaper in 1987 as a genjoined The Tampa Tribune also worked as a He eral assignment reporter.

TribuneĘźs Tallahassee political reporter in the editor. From 1994 to bureau and a copy desk night metro editor 1999, he was the TribuneĘźs He left the paper and night news coordinator. time. He lives in full in August 1999 to write and two daughters. He Tampa with his wife

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for you. Who is the HereĘźs a trivia question who has outlandFlorida mystery writer into bizarre scrapes ish characters that get has to do with some to solve a mystery that Five years ago, most timely Florida issue? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Carl Hiaasen,â&#x20AC;? and people would answer today, but now that would still be correct scene who is on the there is a new author But his outlandish just as highly regarded.

is 44.

"//+3 "9 4)- $/23%9 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.

Carl Hiaasen James T. Hall Elmore Leonard Stuart Woods Barbara Parker Edna Buchanan Les Standiford

They had heard through friends that there were good opportunities 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

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 54

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Fine Ripe Tomatoes West Palm Beach FOCUS Magazine plant city â&#x20AC;˘ march 15 - april 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 55

Marti’s Story For Every Person Who Has Battled Cancer Story by Marti Lofstrom • Photos by Sophia Hyde

Marti with children Sarah and Jeremy.

“My children rallied around me... they reminded me that true beauty is within,” said Marti.

E

ach of our lives is forged by My epoch came when I heard the words I thought events that loom large and forever

change us. Call them turning points, crossroads or milestones. They cast us from what has always been to what will be forever.

would always be meant for someone else: “You have cancer.”

The next day, I lay in bed curled up in the fetal position, my favorite blanket pulled up under my chin, not wanting to leave that safe spot. The world had suddenly become a less inviting, more hostile place. I couldn’t believe the sun had actually risen on this, my darkest of days.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 56

The inexplicable thing about having cancer is that I felt like “a million dollars”. I was 42. No family history of breast cancer. I don’t drink alcohol, do drugs, smoke, and I exercise regularly.

I was the antithesis of high risk. How could I have breast cancer? It’s most likely the same question many thousands of women diagnosed with breast cancer ask themselves each year.

With early detection and advancement in breast cancer research, I was starting a journey that more women are living to tell about.

This is my story.

It began in a chilly hospital room when I came face to face with cancer.

It wasn’t the first time.

In December of 2000, the “dreaded beast” ravaged my body, leaving me with five small, non-invasive tumors in the small of my back that lay dormant today.

In October of 2006, the “beast” was back.

With support from family and friends, I prepared myself for a fight for my life.

My battle with cancer began when the surgeon’s nurse entered the hospital room and told me to take off my blouse and bra and put on a green hospital gown that opened in the front.

I tried to hide my fear while fighting back tears; the nurse, an emblem of the decency of healers, was compassionate and did her best to comfort me, saying it was all right to cry. “It’s OK, everyone is scared.”

She took my vital signs, told me the surgeon would see me shortly, and, with a warm smile and gentle touch, left the room.

As I looked around the room I couldn’t help but notice the doctor’s medical diplomas and plaques of tribute displayed on the walls, the lifelike reproduction of a woman’s breast that lay on a stainless steel table and the box of tissues discreetly placed on the table next to me.

I thought, “Why am I here? What have I done so wrong?”

Sobbing, I bowed my head and watched my tears splash onto the floor.

Reality was setting in.

The lump no woman wants to feel, I felt. The 6-centimeter compact mass on a mammogram that no radiologist wants to see, he sees. The surgeon’s news that he didn’t want to give, he gave.

The pathology report confirmed that the tumor - no matter how small, was still a tumor – was cancerous.

no woman should have to ride; flung into a medical subculture of unfamiliar terminology and unanswered questions.

You learn quickly. You learn about your disease, your surgeon, nurses and treatment. You learn who your friends are; which ones will help you through the tough times and which ones are indifferent to your suffering.

Above all, you learn to stop worrying about the petty things, you learn it’s the important things in life that really matter, like faith, spending more time with family and friends, carrying on with your life and living each day with thankful appreciation.

I am lucky; I live and work in a place where you have more friends than you think and strangers who are among those eager to help.

Although cancer can bring incredible kindness, all in all, it is not a ride that I would recommend. I have been scanned, drilled, sliced, stitched, injected -- and I got off easy because of early detection.

He gave me the strenghth to run the second mile.

At that moment my life went into a tailspin.

I was diagnosed with Stage Three breast cancer during “Cancer Awareness Month,” and boy, was I aware.

I felt trapped in a nightmare. Every day you wake up and breathe a sigh of relief. Then it hits you, and you realize it’s not a dream.

You find yourself on a never-ending roller coaster

Cancer was confined to my breast and the disease didn’t travel into my lymph nodes; I had surgery and I am doing well, thanks to the grace of God, the Manati Cancer Institute in Puerto Rico, Moffitt Cancer Institute, a wonderful family, caring friends and a good attitude.

You see, it isn’t as important what life does to you, as what life finds in you.

God is a source of great strength for me; during my battle with cancer He touched me in ways no one else could. He didn’t look at my hair, didn’t worry about my dry skin, didn’t focus on my broken body. He looked beyond my skin and bones and reached into my soul and gave me the inner strength to cope and move forward; He gave me the strength to run the second mile.

When I had cancer my family had it, too.

My husband is my best friend.

One of the most cherished moments in my marriage was lying on the bed next to him, holding hands as we made the calls to break the news to our family and friends.

With all the cancer statistics we read about, what those statistics don’t show is the number of families who have to deal with seeing their loved ones suffer.

My children rallied around me.

Martiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Story

For Every Person Who Has Battled Cancer

Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Strawberry Festival, when my husband and children were taken by the lyrics in a song sung by Leann Rimes.

Responding to the words of the song, we stood alone in the midst of the crowd, wrapped our arms around one another and hugged as Rimes sang, â&#x20AC;&#x153;How Do I Live Without You.â&#x20AC;? Â I never knew I had so many friends.

My son, Jeremy, and daughter, Sarah, turned into foster parents overnight. When I wept over the prospect of losing my hair, they reminded me that true beauty is within.  One of my most treasured moments was at Plant

I was moved by the outpouring of e-mails, letters, cards, and casual gatherings on the street, at the Whistle Stop Cafe, the grocery store and other places where friends offered me their support, prayers and best wishes. Some were people I knew, some were strangers; many have shared personal stories of how they fought cancer and won, and each is inspirational.

No person should have to deal with cancer without having a caregiver who has survived cancer. Â

For me, it was Colleen Bennett, a guardian angel who showered me with gifts, home-cooked meals, books and offered hope and practical tips for maneuvering through the treatment.

There were groups from churches in Puerto Rico, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and in Brandon and Plant City letting me know I was in their prayers.  And then there was the letter from a baseball fan who told me to equate my cancer battle with baseball. He suggested I visualize my favorite baseball team hitting cancer out of the ball park with each home run.  I wonder if he realizes Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a Tampa Bay Rays fan, and his suggestion, well, could be a bit troublesome.  All the cards, emails and letters of love and support have proven one thing: Grown people cry at the Lofstrom household.  One of the scary things about breast cancer is that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s painless. Unchecked, it will spread to vital organs; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the cancer cells that move out of your breast into your

A long history of putting Florida in Good Hands . ÂŽ

In 1939, Allstate opened its doors in Florida. The Sunshine State was just beginning its population boom. In 1970, the number of people in Dade County alone had quadrupled. As Florida added families, they needed insurance to protect those new homes and cars. And life insurance to protect loved ones. Allstate was there to put them in Good Hands.

Most of the time, the sun shone on our prosperous state. But along the way, Allstate, Allstate Floridian and the people of Florida weathered many major hurricanes together, including four of the worst on record.

Today, after more than 65 years, Allstate and Allstate Floridian continue to be there serving over 2 million households in this state. s !LLSTATE PROTECTS MORE THAN MILLION &LORIDA VEHICLES !ND WE JUST STARTED offering Your Choice Auto hereâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;an innovative product with the unique rate population of Accident Forgiveness, as well as extra rewards for safe Florida drivers, like Deductible Rewards and the Safe Driving Bonus Check. s !LLSTATE EMPLOYS PEOPLE IN THIS STATE AND !LLSTATE AGENTS PROVIDE jobs for another 3,000 Floridians. s 4HE !LLSTATE &OUNDATION SUPPORTS THE &LORIDA CHAPTERS OF DOZENS OF WORTHY ORGANIZATIONS THROUGH GRANTS AND VOLUNTEERS INCLUDING 4HE !MERICAN 2ED Cross, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Junior Achievement, Urban League, Salvation Army, American Cancer Society and the YMCA. s !LLSTATE )NVESTED BILLION IN &LORIDA MUNICIPAL BONDS LAST YEAR 4HAT MONEY goes to build local roads, schools, parksâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the infrastructure that makes our state a great place to live.

FOCUS Magazine plant city â&#x20AC;˘ march 15 - april 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 58

s !LLSTATE IS COMMITTED TO REDUCING TEEN DEATHS FROM CAR ACCIDENTS ,AST YEAR 680 Florida high schools received our teen safe driving toolkit.

Allstate Floridian insures thousands of dwellings in Florida. Even when weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had to say goodbye to a valued homeowner customer, our Allstate agents were there to make sure they were protected by helping them find insurance through a network of reputable independent insurance companies.

Allstate employees, agents and their staffs live here, work here, and help provide protection to the people of this state as proudly as they always have.

With Allstate, Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in Good Hands.

RALPH L. FEOLA, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF (813) 752- 2556 1003 S Collins St Plant City a026519@allstate.com The Cupped Hands logo and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Good Handsâ&#x20AC;? are registered service marks of Allstate Insurance Company Auto Insurance issued by Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Northbrock, IL. Property insurance issued by Allstate Floridian Insurance Company, St. Petersburg, FL. Allstate Floridian Insurance Company and Allstate Floridian Indemnity Company, while part of the Allstate group are not underwritten or reinsured by any other company in the Allstate group. Š 2008 Allstate Insurance Company

For Every Person Who Has Battled Cancer lymph nodes that can potentially kill you.

But breast cancer is not a death sentence if detected early.

The reality is, consistent, self-examinations and yearly mammograms save lives.

A mammography is the only way to detect an early stage of breast cancer before a lump can be felt in a breast self-exam.

Marti’s Story

“What do I know now?”

I know that trying to figure out my fight with cancer is a lot like trying to bite a basketball.

You see, there’s been so much good that has happened.

God has given me a bigger look at how the puzzle is

mapped out. Not much bigger, but big enough for me to see that even tragedies are linked with blessings, and among my many blessings is the chance to tell my story.

Editor’s Note: Marti Lofstrom is credited for the writing of this article, however, the story is hers, dictated to her husband, Jerry, who composed her thoughts for all of us.

Don’t get me wrong, walking the track at “Relay For Life” or giving pink gifts are a beautiful way to support the fight against breast cancer. But the best gift you can give yourself – your daughter, sister, mother or friend – is a mammogram.

I felt reluctant sharing this private experience so publicly, but I do so as an encouragement for those who are fighting cancer and for those who don’t know yet.

After fighting this “dreaded beast” you might ask,

“When I had cancer, my family had it too,” said Marti, pictured here with husband Jerry, and children, Sarah and Jeremy.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 59

business & finance businessprofile

A rtic le and photos by C h e ry l Jo h nsto n

send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Dance Carousel Get Up and Dance

Lori Matta is the owner/director of Dance Carousel, the newest dance studio in Plant City.

Spend just a few moments with physically fit Lori and she’ll inspire you to register for a class.

Her passion to help folks get up and move is infectious. Even if you can’t imagine yourself taking lessons, the health benefits alone should draw you to the studio for a weeknight workout.

The dance passion runs deep. Lori’s grandparents were instructors, and she began dancing at age

designed to move students from beginner through advanced levels. Tumbling and cheerleading sessions develop competitive precision and strength. The jazzercise, zumba, and Gotta Dance classes provide rhythmic workouts for toning, weight loss, and stress relief.

One look at Miss Lori and it’s obvious she’s a professional instructor. College degrees include a B.S. in Dance Movement Therapy for Special Needs Students and a Master of Science in Sports

Lori Matta credits her mother for instilling the dance passion. Mom’s studio just celebrated their 52nd recital in Brockton, Massachusetts.

Zumba and Gotta Dance classes are offered evenings for adults.

three in Brockton, Massachusetts, at the studio her mother established. Now owned by Lori’s sister, that studio recently celebrated its 52nd recital. Another sister owns a separate Boston area studio, and the youngest sister is an actress/singer living in Los Angeles. Lori’s mother has danced professionally three times recently on “Dancing with the Stars.”

Customer satisfaction is a high priority. Dance Carousel teachers provide a caliber of instruction that comes only from years of experience. Classes are offered for children, ages two and up, through adults. The spacious dance floor and workout area allow plenty of room for movement. Tap, jazz, ballet, and lyrical interpretive dance lessons are

Medicine and Exercise Physiology. Beauty pageant experience includes crowns from the Junior Miss Talent, Miss New Hampshire, and Miss New England Talent. Lori toured the U.S. studying and judging many competitions in California, Las Vegas, and New York City. She once held the lead coaching position for the renowned Cathy Rigby’s Gymnastics Academy in California. Additionally, Lori was an NFL New England Patriots’ cheerleader. Needless to say, Dance Carousel offers modeling and various pageant preparation classes, too.

Since Dance Carousel purchased the Garden Club this summer, word of mouth has sent customers flocking. Matta encourages students to commit

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 60

time and energy to better their health. When students do their part, the staff promises results.

“We want our students to learn something new every time they attend a class. We feel very connected to each of our students and will help them to improve to the best of their abilities.

Children have so much potential for long, healthy lives, if we can motivate them to be active when they’re young.” As evidence of student response, Miss Lori’s office walls are covered with children’s drawings and student photos. Recently, as a form of thanks, Girl Scout Troop #502 landscaped the Dance Carousel property.

One other passion occupies Miss Lori’s time when she’s not dancing. Her 10-acre Knights-Griffin area ranch is now home to thirty-seven formerly homeless or neglected animals. So, her life is all about doing for others – from teaching dance, to encouraging students, and to rescuing animals that need care.

Come to Dance Carousel and discover a class just right for you. Stop at the bright pink sign at 1112 North Wheeler Street or phone (813)659-9100.

Lori Matta and her staff are determined to make your dance experiences memorable.

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New Adult Classes Being Offered: :UMBA -ON PM s *AZZERCISE 7ED PM

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FOCUS Magazine plant city â&#x20AC;¢ march 15 - april 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;¢ Page 61

business & finance investing

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

Time for Some Financial Spring Cleaning?

You may or may not engage in many of the typical activities of “spring cleaning” - de-cluttering the attic, reorganizing your closets, touching up the paint, etc. - but you can almost certainly benefit from “sprucing up” your financial situation.

As your survey your financial landscape, what areas might you want to tidy up? Here are a few suggestions: Clear your portfolio of “redundant” investments. Over time, you may have built a sizable investment portfolio. But if you have too many investments that look alike, you may actually be hindering your progress toward your goals. Look for opportunities to replace some of these “redundancies” with different types of securities, taking into account your risk tolerance and time horizon.

Organize your financial records. If you’re like those of us who file our taxes at the last minute, now is the perfect time to organize your financial records, because you’ve probably got them close at hand.

Once you’ve got these documents together, you might see opportunities to consolidate some of your accounts. Also, with all your IRAs in one place, it will be much easier for you to manage the required minimum distributions you must start taking when you turn 70-1/2. (These distributions are not required for Roth IRAs.) Review your “systematic” investments. Many years ago, you might have started systematically moving money from your checking account into an investment. But perhaps the circumstances of your life have changed and this money could better be used elsewhere. Scrutinize your automatic investments to see if they still make sense for you.

Check your beneficiaries. Beneficiary designations on financial documents - insurance policies, IRAs, 401(k)s, etc. - are extremely important, because they supersede even the instructions in your will. Over time, your family situation may have changed, through death, divorce, remarriage or the birth of new children, so you should periodically review all your beneficiary designations.

Examine your insurance coverage. When you have a young family, you need a certain amount of life insurance coverage to provide for some major expenses - such as your mortgage, college for your kids, perhaps some retirement funds for your spouse. But when your children have grown, your mortgage is paid and your spouse has decades’ worth of retirement savings, your insurance needs may change considerably.

Take some time and review your insurance coverage with your financial advisor.

By following these “spring cleaning” suggestions, you can help put your financial house in order for the seasons to follow.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 62

business & finance success

Story by Sherry Baldw i n / Photo Courte sy of Ja n a E v e rs

+%,,9 % 30%%2 !44/2.%9 !4 ,!7 ,,# 7 "AKER 3TREET 3UITE $ 0LANT #ITY &LORIDA

jana evers The Specialist//38//Owner of The Artistry Salon and Spa Since graduating from Plant City High School in 1987 and receiving her cosmetology license, Jana Evers has worked hard to build a successful hair salon and spa. With husband Ron by her side, Eversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; first business was that of a small salon, employing only two hair stylists and one nail technician. Today, the Eversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; business, The Artistry Salon and Spa, has grown to include 3,000 square feet of pampering with 35 staff members.

My Aspiration: Professionally, I always strive to provide the best services to everyone. It is also important that time spent at my Salon and Spa is as enjoyable and relaxing as possible. On the personal side, I would like to spend more time traveling with my sons before they graduate from High School and move on with their own lives.

My Inspiration: My inspiration has definitely been my parents Ronald Futch and Mary Murray. Growing up they provided me with love and the knowledge that hard work and family are everything. Striving to be your best every day and to always be a good listener are values that I learned and pass on to my own children.

Why Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a Success: First and foremost, I have been blessed with a wonderful clientele that I would do anything for.

They can always trust that I will be there for them in any situation. Additionally, I am never complacent and am always looking for new and better ways to do things. This is accomplished through continuing education, services and/or staff.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Next: Having just renovated the Spa side of our salon, we are now excited to host after hours quarterly events. During these events we will introduce new services and products offered here. To help us keep up on the latest trends, colors, cuts and styles, we have also scheduled six hands-on classes, including both Paul Mitchell and Redken platform artists.

providing historic downtown plant city with the ingredients for life! whether you are looking for local produce, trying to eat better or just want to learn more about cooking with new ingredients, the corner store provides you with many options for eating well at home.

the corner store choose from our hand picked collection of soaps, unique kitchen and home decor, jams and jellies all handcrafted by local artisans as well as our collection of the best ingredients from around the world. we welcome you to slow down and enjoy the local ďŹ&#x201A;avor at the corner store!

www.corner121.com | 813.754.0900 | 121 E. Reynolds St. FOCUS Magazine plant city â&#x20AC;˘ march 15 - april 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 63

Masters/Owners Lee, Sally & Kyle 9 year old Golden Retriever Loves to eat anything and everything.

Very spoiled and very loving.

Loves to sleep on a big fluffy bed at the foot of her masters’ bed.

Sassy recently had ear surgery, her bandage was signed by the entire staff before she went home.

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

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 64

business & finance success

²4BTTZ³ #SPXO

sto ry a n d p hoto by Ja n e el Shul mist er

Owen Johnson The Pit Boss // 25 // CEO, Grandpa Johnson’s Barbeque

He achieves a balance between work and home while still growing the family business, and loves what he does. With a commitment to his customers and his employees, as well as to his family, he provides quality all around.

My Aspiration: To grow as much as I can comfortably grow while maintaining time with my family. I love what I do. I love the people side of it. I love the people I work with.

There’s a lot of family members that work here. Some of my wife’s family has worked here. Even those who are not relatives that work here, I know them, I know their families. It’s a good place.

My Inspiration: Well first of all, my grandpa, he started it. 1955 is when he first started his restaurant, so that’s definitely an inspiration for me. His name’s on the sign so his reputation too I’m trying to keep up. My dad definitely, all the stuff that he’s done with the Market, growing it, keeping the family values in place, making a good place to work for the employees.

Why I’m a Success: Because of the people that work for me, because of the people that work here. People that like to take pride in delivering hospitality. Definitely, team is what makes it go, a good team.

What’s Next: We’re about to make a lot of changes as far as the layout of the place. We’re going to close in the screen porch and make the dinning room bigger. We’re going to put in an open pit, just anything that I can do. I always look to things to make it more unique, whatever that is. From there, if it means doing another restaurant we’ll do that. Take it slow.

3 !LEXANDER 3TREET s 3UITE 0LANT #ITY &,

STEPHEN W. SHOUSE, AAMS MICHAEL CAMERON 813-752-9400 813-759-1491 Financial Advisor

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FOCUS Magazine plant city â&#x20AC;¢ march 15 - april 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;¢ Page 65

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FOCUS Magazine plant city â&#x20AC;˘ march 15 - april 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 66

67

HOME GUIDE

87

This is a special advertising section

813-758-9586

Natalie Sweet Let us show you how

THE SWEET TEAM

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Larry Jimenez Angel Miller 813-267-6740 813-546-9863 FOCUS Magazine plant city â&#x20AC;˘ march 15 - april 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 67

Sam Clark Realtor®

FAMILY NEIGHBORHOOD

Neat and clean 3 BR/2 BA home with fresh paint, new carpet and new upgraded appliances.

Home has over 1250 SF living, split plan, volume ceilings and is priced to sell for a quick move-in.

Now only $185,000. MLS #T2291455.

Call Jimmie Robinson, 813-754-3586

READY TO SELL

Walden Oaks Place – For carefree living, this 2+ BR/2 BA/ 2CG home features 1700+ SF living, fireplace, enclosed lanai, split bedrooms, security system and much more to offer. Den can easily be 3rd bedroom.

A clean and well maintained home; one of the larger units in Walden Oaks. Priced right at $179,900.

MLS #T2254914.

Please call Jimmie Robinson, 813-754-3586.

A GREAT HOMESTEAD

So much to offer in this secluded home on 6+ acres just north of town. Property features 6 stall barn; two-story home includes 4 BR/2 BA and 1800+ SF living. Wood floors and plenty of room make this property a great buy. Listed at $299,900. MLS #T2277924.

Call Jimmie Robinson, 813-754-3586.

Robb Lusk

Broker-Associate

PRICED FOR QUICK SALE

Brenda Herring Realtor®

Roger Burrage Realtor®

Country style custom home, 4 BR/3 BA, 2632 SF living, built in 2005 on 1.5 acres at end of lane. From the time you walk up to the cracker style front porch & through the 8’ custom front doors, to the covered lanai back area you will be WOWED! There are so many upgrades, there is a separate list to include them all; 14’ ceilings, crown molding, custom surround sound system, stainless steel appliances, wainscot bar and breakfast nook, double paned windows, 42” cabinets, water purification system and whirlpool bathtub. So much more for just $349,900. MLS #T2278235.

Contact Robb Lusk, 813-967-5107.

FAIRWAY BEAUTY

Beautiful custom built golf course home in Walden Lake.

3286 SF home features 4 BR/2.5 BA, large 3 car garage, fireplace, 10’ ceilings, circle drive, upscale landscaping, jacuzzi, outside kitchen and bonus room perfect for large gatherings, sprinkler system, sun room plus much more. Seller will take real estate on trade. Builder owned home.

A must see at $535,000. MLS #T2295473.

Please call Terry Speer, 813-764-8030.

NORTH OF TOWN Quiet dead-end street and a country setting make this the perfect place! Tree-shaded back yard with swing set. Screened patio. Updated Girard Lane Home features 3 BR/2 BA, 1700 SF living w/ newer roof, and central heat & air. Beautiful new kitchen reveals granite counter tops, new cabinets. Berber carpet, hardwood floor in dining room. All appliances stay. Private location with no back yard neighbor. Come take a look! Offered at $260,000.

MLS #T2272776. Call Jean Bridgmon, 877-442-7001.

SHOWS LIKE A MODEL HOME!

Custom built 3/2/2 sits on 1.4 acres and features great room with fireplace, split plan, volume ceilings, screened lanai, master bedroom with walk-in closets, large master bath with separate tub and shower. Breakfast nook and bar off kitchen and a formal dining area. Convenient to I-4 and just minutes to shopping and schools in Plant City. Most of the property is fenced. Check this one out if you’re looking for over an acre with a fine home. Offered at $246,000. MLS #T2292673.

Call Sam Clark, (813) 719-0414.

A PERFECT HOMESITE

Enjoy country living at its finest when you build your dream home on this 1 acre tree-shaded lot.

Beautiful grandfather oaks and fresh country air add to the serenity on this dead end street. Premium land on a street of beautiful homes.

Offered at $89,900.

Contact Jimmie Robinson, 813-754-3586.

COUNTRY VIEWS

Covered RV parking, 4 car carport, workshop, beautiful landscaping and country setting are where you will find this immaculate 2,028 sq. ft. triple wide on 2.3 acres on a quiet cul-de-sac.

Offered at $219,900. MLS #T2266191.

Call Sam Clark, (813) 719-0414.

Maddie Alford Realtor®

AN ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC PROPERTY!

Lorrie & Terry Sobzak Realtor®

Welcome to Wilder’s Pond, close to all shopping & other services. Home is less than 2 years, constructed by one of Tampa Bay’s Top Custom Builders. Southern charm at its best & sits on nearly 3 acres of pristine fenced land, including your very own pond. Excellent Interest Rates.

Offered at a good price. MLS #T2270006.

Call Ken Lawrence, (813) 716-0187.

BACK TO THE FUTURE

Built in 1915 in Beautiful Plant City, and steps away from the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds. When you walk in the door of this magnificent home, your thoughts will turn to the year 2008 and beyond. From the original wood floors that simply gleam up at you, to the exquisite finishing of the walls and baseboards to the top of the line kitchen appliances, to the layout of the home, you’ll want to take possession immediately. The living room with a working fireplace is what hits your eyes when you walk in the front door, followed by a foyer that leads you to a fine dining room, with a 2nd fireplace, where all that is missing is a gourmet meal. The kitchen has a bar/counter for a quick snack, but you’ll probably want to use the very large dinette which leads out to the lanai/patio. The 3 downstairs bedrooms are all a good size, with the MASTER being romantic as well as very functional. You must make an appointment to see this home. Priced at $290,000. MLS #T2298290.

Contact Ken Lawrence, 813-716-0187.

SPECIAL COMMERCIAL RATES!

OFFICE PARK “FOR SALE” by one of Tampa Bay’s Premiere Custom Builders. 9 of the 10 Buildings are unfinished inside. Builder will complete to your specs. BEST PRICES IN PLANT CITY! If an investor wants the entire facility, BARGAIN! MLS #T2282416.

Call Ken Lawrence, (813) 716-0187.

Jean Bridgmon, GRI, CRS

INVESTMENT AT A GREAT PRICE

7 acres MOL located inside the city limits and zoned R-6/6 units per acre. Includes 4 BR/2 BA/2 car garage home with over 2500 SF living area. Also includes manufactured home that is 4 BR/2 BA. Now only $375,000.

MLS #T2184206.

Call Jimmie Robinson, 813-754-3586.

DREAM HOME PARCEL Beautiful 1.33 acre lot to build your dream home. Exclusive Stone Hedge community with country living close to schools and shopping.

Must see to appreciate. Listed at $125,000.

MLS #T2295485.

Contact Jimmie Robinson, 813-754-3586.

MOTIVATED SELLER!

Realtor® "ROKER !SSOCIATE

Sun Colony Custom-Built Home in Walden Lakes’ prestigious Tanglewood. Spectacular golf course frontage at 18th hole, 10th tee, overlooking clubhouse. Bright, open kitchen/family room with fireplace, wet bar, 8 foot pocket sliders/windows, island cooking.

Formal living and dining, leaded glass entry, master features over sized shower, his and her sinks, walk-in closet, spacious under roof lanai with screened pool and spa, summer kitchen, recently resurfaced deck and full bath, 3-car garage with storage room under A/C,. Also has newer roof and appliances, 6 skylights, zoned heat and A/C, water filtration/softener, intercom and security system, landscape lighting and irrigation, walk to clubhouse, fitness center, tennis and golf practice area. Gated community, privacy on cul-de-sac, original owner. Seller will pay 1% of sales price toward the buyers closing costs to include points, pre-paids and/or insurance; with acceptable offer at closing.

New price of $395,000. MLS #T2227349. Call Maddie Alford, 813-382-8382.

Malissa & Mitchell Crawford

Realtor®

NO DETAIL OVERLOOKED!

There is so much to this charming home, a small ad is not enough.

A must see, this 2 BR/2 BA home has pride of ownership in the circular drive, 28’ porch, white PVC fence and professional landscaping. Step inside to enjoy beautiful hardwood floors, ceramic tile and a spacious laundry room like you’ve never seen! Stainless steel appliances, upgraded wood cabinets w/roll-out drawers; everything is new. Nothing was spared by the owners - you must see this for yourself, especially at $168,605. MLS #T2296127.

Call Lynne Halleran, 813-763-1881.

CUSTOM DREAM HOME

Tucked away on a private road in northwest Plant City, this custom 3 BR/2.5 BA, 1943 SF home sits on a beautifully manicured lot at the end of a cul-desac. Gleaming hardwood, ceramic tile, as well as berber carpet share the floor space as you notice all the details from room to room, including a stunning brick wall “hearth” in the kitchen. The living area easily expands during nice weather by utilizing the triple glass sliders that open fully onto an enormous screened lanai. The garage is oversized, with plenty of room for two cars plus a workshop area! Additionally, the attic over the garage has flooring for more storage room. No HOA and minimal deed restriction - enjoy your private piece of paradise here! Convenient to shopping, entertainment and schools - what more could you want?! This one shows like a model - your search will be over once you’ve seen this one! $324,838. MLS #2284607.

Contact Lynne Halleran, 813-763-1881.

PICTURE PERFECT

No other way to describe this immaculately maintained home in one of the last communities built in Walden Lake, Plant City’s trendy community. This 3 BR/2 BA/2 CG pool home overlooks a pretty pond that meanders around the community, with ducks and other water fowl. As you pull up to the home, you’ll remark “How well the lawn and landscaping have been maintained”. When you enter the home, that good feeling will continue as you view the good size living/dining combo, then into the kitchen/family room where families spend much of their time. There’s plenty of cabinet space in the kitchen and overall storage space is plentiful. The bedrooms are all good size and well appointed. Then there’s the lanai, the caged-in, solar heated pool, overlooking the wonderful pond with families of ducks swimming-by. Nicely priced at $269,900.

MLS #T2220534. Call Roger Burrage, 813-754-3586.

Janet Lynn Moore Realtor®

Lynne Halleran Realtor®

IMMACULATE

This 4 BR/3 BA/3 CG home on Walden Lakes Golf Course, Par 5 in the exclusive Hampton Place gated community. This beautiful home opens through a double entry doorway into a formal living and dining room with crystal chandeliers. Features include tray ceilings, remote control dimmer switches, formal columns, archways and niches. A split floor plan provides coveted privacy and a sitting area in the master bedroom, his and hers walk-in closets and a master bath with double vanities on each side of the room with a separate tile shower and garden tub.

Access three bedrooms off the family room with two additional baths.

Two screened lanais invite outdoor activities. The kitchen provides solid surface counter tops and wrap around breakfast bar. Priced to sell; must see to appreciate. $379,900. MLS #T2297401.

Call Janet Moore at 813-751-9890.

EXCELLENT LAND OPPORTUNITY!

Over 2.5 acres of vacant land with electric, well and septic already present and a fenced pasture that waits your livestock, this is a previous manufactured home site. No Deed Restrictions or HOA fees. Satellite dish also present. $149,900.

MLS #T2282505.

Call Janet Moore at 813-751-9890.

COMPLETELY RENOVATED

This is a tri-level custom built home on 3/4 of an acre. Kitchen boasts all new wooden cabinets and new appliances. Enjoy your morning coffee sitting at the kitchen table gazing out 1 of the 2 French doors that lead to a large screened pool area and the deck that has been refinished. The Florida room has the other set of French doors. The 2.5 baths have all been updated. Wall have new stucco and new paint. New carpet, tile and parquet are throughout the home. Home has Formal dining room and formal large living room has a wood burning fireplace. The office/den was once the inside utility room can be easily turned into that room again.

Another great feature is that it is not far from I-4 for an easy commute to either Tampa, Lakeland or Orlando... You need to step into this wonderful home to really appreciate its beauty. $250,000. MLS #T2277929.

Call Patty Canipe, 813-754-3586.

Jimmie Robinson

Realtor® s "ROKER !SSOCIATE

YOUR PERFECT PARTNER • FULL SERVICE • CLIENT FOCUSED Call us for your Residential and Commercial Real Estate needs

Ken Lawrence Realtor®

1513 Jim Redman Parkway, Plant City RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

813-754-3586

Christine Weber Realtor®

STILL NEED HELP PICKING YOUR LOCAL FLOORING STORE?

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We Build Your Floor Plan Or Ours

We Build On Your Lot Or Ours

Will Pay Closing Cost on New Home Purchase or Custom Built Home*.

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

In tough times, choose a Custom Home Builder, that is here to stay!!!

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SPRINGFIELD OFF SPARKMAN RD $69,900

SOUTHERN MEADOWS OFF TURKEY CREEK 1 Mile From Walden Lake

89,900

1+ ACRE HOMESITES AVAILABLE IN BOTH SUBDIVISIONS

Homes On 1 Acre From Only *

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4 Bedroom, 3 Bath, 2200 Sq’ Living Area

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*as part of custom home package

#ALL .ATALIE 3WEET s 813-758-9586 #ALL !NGEL -ILLER s 813-546-9863 ££äÊ7°Ê,iÞ `ÃÊ-Ì°Ê-Õ ÌiÊ£ä{ÊUÊ* > ÌÊ ÌÞ]Ê ÊUÊ* i\Ên£Î ÇxÇ ÇÓÇÊ ÀÊn£Î ÎÈÎ Óä{Ç ÜÜÜ° i Õ iðL â License #CBC1251837

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RENEE CORZINE KELLER WILLIAMS

Realtor

$169,900 WALDEN LAKE VILLA 3/2/2 villa. Ceramic tile and carpet.

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

$144,000 PRIVATE BACK YARD

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

$209,900 POPULAR TWO-STORY PLAN

813-716-6007

GORGEOUS SUNSETS OVER POND

rcorzine@tampabay.rr.com

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

$199,900 TWO-STORY ON AN ACRE

Multi-Million Dollar Producer

$195,900

$162,000 FOUR BEDROOMS

3 !LEXANDER 3TREET s 3UITE s

3/2.5/2, 1886 SF, 13â&#x20AC;&#x2122;x12â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Loft/Bonus Room, 3/2.5 on 1 acre, 2064 SF, Bonus Rm/Den, Fire- 4/2/2, 2014 SF, Scrnd Lanai Bonus Rm, Fenced, Hardwood, Lanai, Fruit Trees, Fenced place, Fenced, 20â&#x20AC;&#x2122;x12â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Utility Shed SHORT SALE!

5 ACRES

PAT COMSTOCK GRI, Realtor Multi-Million Dollar Producer

813-759-9449

patcomstock@msn.com

PIONEERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; DREAM!

$250,000

$219,000

$199,900

ROOM TO ROAM! UNBELIEVABLE PRICE! "2 "! ,/' #!"). /. !. !#2% -/, (!2$- "2 "! 0ALM (ARBOR HOME S F "2 "!

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$234,000

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$319,000

BUILDING LOTS

$68,900

ACRES ON PAVED CULDESAC WITH POND /2 ACRES WITHOUT POND "2 "!

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COUNTRY LUXURY!

FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;¢ march 15 - april 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;¢ Page 73

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

289K HOME

GREAT HOME LOCATED ON THE 3RD HOLE OF WALDEN LAKE HILLS COURSE Circular drive gives great curb appeal. Recent Appraisal valued @ $430,000.

Newly remodeled kitchen with new cabinets, lots of granite, and extra pull out drawers for storage. Pool boasts new marcite and deck as well as 2nd bathroom doubles as pool bath. Owner’s suite has double walk-in closets and newly remodeled shower. Central Vacuum and large inside utility room. All appliances will stay.

Roof and A/C units are new within last 5 years.

Call Mac McGrath @ 813-967-1820

AFFORDABLE 4 BEDROOM IN ROSELAND PARK Remodeled Block home on ¼ Acre in non-deed restricted neighborhood. Ceramic Tile, NEW Kitchen and Baths, Screened Patio, Workshop, Fenced!

Call Lorraine Bennett @ (813) 716-3997

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

GREAT STARTER HOME WITH LOTS OF POTENTIAL! Many upgrades have been made to this concrete block home inside and out - from flooring and paint to landscaping and privacy fencing. Just needs the Buyers personal touch priced at $130,000 Call Cathy Martin @ (813)376-0891

DISTINCTIVE AND SPACIOUS GOLF COURSE HOME Wonderfully maintained 2610 sq ft home. Vaulted Ceilings, newer design tile, french doors from the Grand Dining Room leading out to a separate and private Garden/Court Yard as well as many light inviting sliding doors opening up to a wonderful “L” Shaped pool overlooking a verdant golf course vista. MOTIVATED $351,500 Call Barbara Jean Kulyk @ 813-781-1915

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. $460,000 Call Brenda Salyers @ 813-230-1120

62K HOME One of a kind. 1 acre with trees 145’ x 290’, Build your dream home on this beauty of a peice of land.

T2286438. $62,500 Call Davy Miles @ (813) 376-4444

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! $375,000.

Call Brenda Salyers @ 813-230-1120

his one has it all. Pool, fire place,huge lot, new roof, fresh paint , new carpet and owners who care. Den could be 4th bed room, make appt. today, located close to all things Plant City/ Brandon. T2276952. $289,000 Call Davy Miles @ (813) 376-4444

00

$144,9

RENTAL DOLLHOUSE IN PLANT CITY LIMITS This 3/2 block home has been taken care of and waiting for you. Perfect location to shopping and schools. Bonus room will make a great office or game room. You don’t want to miss this one! Priced to sell.... $159,900

Call Sharon Ours @ 813-763-0856

1607 S. Alexander Street

813-759-1200

Cute 2/1 home in country

$800

2/2 Cedar Run Condo Call about move in special

$800

Walden Lake 3/2

$1150

3/2 corner lot

$1100

Kentwod Condo 2/1.5 Call Becky @ 813-376-2100

$1100

NON- DEED RESTRICTED Beautiful Home on Beautiful Property 3/2 w/ Den Vaulted Family Room with Fireplace on 1.21 Acres. Wood Laminate floors.

All bedrooms have walk in closets. Electric Gate, Alarm System Covered Front & side Porch Two sheds.

Call Brenda Salyers @ 813-230-1120

Nicole Adams

Team Leader / Managing Broker

METRO PAINTING

Don’t Try and Do it Yourself Let the Experts Help #OMMERCIAL s 2ESIDENTIAL s 2EMODELS .EW #ONSTRUCTION s 3TAINING 0AYMENT 0LANS /FFERED ON 2ESIDENTIAL 0AINT *OBS

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(Next to Brown’s Florist)

813-752-1960 SARAH ZELLER-BADAT

ACT CONTR

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PENDI

BEAUTIFUL LAKEVIEW HOME 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.

NEVER LIVED IN RENTAL

This 4/2.5 rental home in the beautiful Magnolia Green subdivision in Walden Lake is a must see. Offering a great floor plan, amazing community pool and a peaceful community this is a wonderful place to call home. Don’t let this one pass you by. More rental properties are available so please call 813-763-5676 and find your new home today.

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! Price Reduced to $vv399,990

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

HORSES WELCOME

This absolutely breathtaking 3/2.5 home is located on 5 acres. The beautiful 4 stall horse barn and tack room is equipped with everything a horse lover needs and the land offers lots of room to ride. Located convenient to I-4, Hwy 60, Brandon and Lakeland everything you need is a stone throw away.

So, if you are looking for peace and quiet this is the estate for you. Please call for more details.

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 75

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. PRICE REDUCED!!! $169,900 #722

LOOKING FOR LOTS OF SPACE? Then be sure to check out this nice 3 bedrm 2 bath with home on 2.91 acres just inside of Pasco County. Family rm w/ďŹ replace. Could possibly be divided. Completely fenced. Live the country life! $175,000. #833

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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

READY FOR YOUR NEW HOME

This pretty 1 acre lot already has a well & septic tank installed. Scattered trees. No deed restrictions. Great area $69,900. #834

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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

OFFICE BUILDING FOR SALE

Just south of downtown Plant City on a large corner lot. 4662 sq ft block building plus canopy. Paved Parking. Priced below current appraisal! Now you can be the landlord for just $325,000. #732

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

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NATURE LOVERS PARADISE

This 6.32 acres will make a beautiful homesite.

Heavily wooded with lots of trees. Make your own park like yard. Well already on property. $400,000 #730

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...Is where you will ďŹ nd this nice 3 bdrm home with a spacious living room & family room.

Fenced backyard & 2 outdoor sheds.PRICE REDUCED TO $151,405. Call for the details. #727

IDEAL FOR HORSE LOVERS

There is a beautiful site for your new home among the oaks on the front part of this 6.15 mol acres with trees & pasture that is fenced & cross fenced. Small pole barn.

PRICE REDUCED TO $240,000. #729

Each office is independently owned and operated, except offices owned and operated by NRT incorporated

FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ march 15 - april 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 76

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I didn’t even think I could get a mortgage.

Nate Davis, “You are the man”. 16 days is all it took. Yes, it was all God, but he needed to work through someone, a man of integrity, and man who cares, and a man who is honest.

A lot of people got taken advantage of during the housing boom, but Nate took care of me and he can do the same for you.

Nate, may God bless you and your family. Thank you for being a man of integrity. There is not many left in your business.

CALL NATE DAVIS Mortgage Consultant

(813) 763-3910

Bob Cusmano Bob C’s Catering

GO TO www.PlantCityMortgages.com AND REQUEST YOUR COPY OF A FREE REPORT THAT REVEALS THE FACTORS THAT ARE CONSIDERED WHEN DETERMINING YOUR INTEREST RATE.

E G I A 0

A *AID IS

Jaida, We can not believe that you are already 2! You have brought so much joy, laughter and fun into our lives. You are Daddy’s Little Girl and Mommy’s Angel Girl! Keep that beautiful smile shining and always know that we love you all around the world a million, trillion times and back! xoxoDaddy & Mommy

homes homeguide

submitted by n ata l i e s w e et

Walden Lake Review The last Board of Directors Meeting was held on Monday, January 11th. The Board voted to change the meeting day and time from the 2nd Monday of the month to the 3rd Monday of every month and to change the start time from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The Board is hoping this will help the Board Members that work. The monthly meetings are held at 1514 S Alexander Street and all Walden Lake Association Members are welcome.

don’t be caught without your sticker. It will be costly. The park belongs to the association members for their use and enjoyment. If you need additional stickers, please see Marlene at the Community Association office. She will be happy to sell you additional stickers for $5 each. You not only need the new sticker for parking, the guard will now stop you if you do not have the new round sticker on your car.

The Annual Walden Lake Community Association Meeting is scheduled to take place on Thursday, April 10th and will be held at the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club. There are three Board positions that are up for election. There are several candidates but the Board asks anyone who is interested in holding a position on the Board to please contact Frank Salerno at 813-719-7638.

The Board is having the Association’s attorney investigate which properties WCI still holds within the Walden Lake boundaries. He should have the information for the Board by their next meeting.

The Board voted to begin towing from the park.

Warning stickers have been put on autos without a Community sticker for the last 6 months. Please

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 78

I spoke with Cassandra Banning, the President of the Plant City Garden Club. She said now that March is here, we can start cutting back the freeze damage from our plants & shrubs. Don’t be afraid to cut back aggressively, you want to make sure you have at least cut back to where the green is.

Even if you cut back close to the ground they will

recover and since we have a long growing season, they will be looking good before you know it.

Be sure your mowers are set to keep the height of your grass at least 3/12 inches, this will help the grass put down strong roots. Turn off your irrigation system and save that water whenever possible.

Steve Mercer, the General Manager said that there wasn’t anything new to report at the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club but there are events planned. There will be a Spring Break Clinic with the Gibson Golf Academy for children during the week of April 7th. Swim Team registrations will be held on March 31st at the WLG&CC pool entrance from 4:30-7:00 PM. Director of Events, Billy Kagle said there are many golf tournaments booked and if you are considering holding a tournament, book early before the date you want is gone. You can call Billy at the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club 752-1171 for your entire event needs. He can help you plan your special day.

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

GATED HAMPTON PLACE

STUNNING GOLF COURSE HOME

ENTERTAINER’S DELIGHT IN WALDEN LAKE

Stretch out with over 2900 sq’ 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. $417,900. Call Natalie Today to see this BEAUTY! 758-9586

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

You’ll appreciate this Custom Home in Clubhouse Woods with over 3000 sq’ of living area, 3 Car Garage & Tile Roof. The Master Suite is enormous w/a palatial bath. Custom kitchen w/ wood cabinets & glass fronts.

Call to schedule your private tour today. 758-9586

CHARMING GOLF COURSE HOME

TANGLEWOOD IN WALDEN LAKE

THE PRICE IS RIGHT

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.

Looking for a perfect entertaining home? This is it with the gigantic Great Room with fireplace, huge pocket sliding door that goes out to the large lanai and pool with a view of the golf course. This is a wonderful home at the end of 2 cul-de-sacs.

Priced right at $285,000. Call Natalie 758-9586

WALDEN LAKE MODEL PERFECT

GREAT HOME GREAT LOCATION

DON’T LET THE AGE FOOL YOU

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. $274,800.

Call Natalie 758-9586.

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!

This 1925 Bungalow is all NEW! Everything has been updated inside and out from the floor to the roof. You will love the gorgeous NEW Kitchen with Granite Countertops and New Appliances. A Must See! $149,500 Call Natalie 813-758-9586

TERRIFIC STARTER HOME

PRICED TO SELL

NEWER HOME ON 4.9 A WITH GREENBELT

3 Bedrrom 2 Bath & Garage. Split Bedroom Floorplan and Great Room with Dining. This home sits on a nice lot and is convenient to I4 for easy commute. Priced to sell at $135,000. Call Natalie at 813-758-9586

3 Bedroom 1 1/2 Bath Home on nice lot in convenient location for easy commute and shopping. New tile floors. Price to sell at only $135,000.

Call Natalie for more details 758-9586.

Fabulous Just Like NEW Home with tons of upgrades & 2400 sq’ of living space. Featuring Solar Heated Pool, 2 Gas Fireplaces, Central Vacuum, Granite Countertops, GE Profile Appliances, Crown Molding & so much more!

Call Natalie for your personal tour 758-9586.

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

Purchase

Refinance

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

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

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FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 80

Randall & Kathleen Wainoris

REALTOR® / Attorney at Law

REALTOR® / Notary

PLANT CITY CIRCA 1900

Charming two story colonial home.

4 bedrooms, 2 baths. New roof and a/c. Completely rewired with new remodeled kitchen. Detached garage on a lovely corner lot. Asking only $239,500.

PLANT CITY WITH NO DEED RESTRICTIONS

Over 4100 sq. foot, 4 bedroom 2 story home on 1/2 acre. Dramatic entry, living room with wood burning fireplace. Downstairs master suite, separate hobby/computer room, and separate family/game room. Gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Beautiful property. Asking $474,900.

Selling Plant City and Lakeland Multi-Million Dollar Producer

813-997-3000 863-608-1557 sellmyhome@tampabay.rr.com

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PLANT CITY GOLF COURSE HOME Wonderful 4 bed/3 bath pool home in beautiful Walden Lake. Very open split plan w/ volume ceilings, formal living room and dining room, family room with fireplace and large island kitchen. Spread out in 2746 feet of living area for just $375,000.

WALDEN LAKE DREAM HOME

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

Motivated seller: Price reduced to just $449,000.

PLANT CITY MARKET UPDATE

by Randall Wainoris, JD, MBA ARE HOME PRICES REALLY DOWN, AND IS THIS GOOD OR BAD FOR THE MARKET? COUNTRY HOME ON 1.18 ACRES Adorable 3 bedroom home with detached workshop and no deed restrictions Only $174,900.

CARE FREE LIVING

Immaculate 2 bed/2 bath Lakeland condo.

Private back yard, covered parking. Asking $136,900.

GOLF COURSE TOWNHOME

Stunning 2 story 3 bed/2.5 bath town home in Haines City. Offered furnished for only $169,000.

4.84 ACRES.....REDUCED TO SELL! 3 bedrooms, plus den, F/R with fireplace, island kitchen and wood deck. Only $199,500.

Yes, home sales prices have generally fallen over the last year. Ironically however, this is NOT all bad news for the market.

According to the Greater Tampa Association of Realtors, the average sales price for the month of January 2008 was $246,260. In January 2007, the average sales price was $259,065.

If you are selling; it is true that you will probably not get as much money for your home as you would have in 2007. However, when you do sell, the good news is that your new home will also cost less.

Since taxes and closing costs are based on selling price, many of the costs for buying and selling are actually less today then if the transaction had occurred last year.

If you do not currently own a home; now that interest rates are down and prices are substantially lower than they have been in recent history, now is a great time to buy. Please call us today to see how we can help you with your real estate needs.

LAKELAND 3 BEDROOM 2 1/2 BATH CONDO Newly renovated. Private patio, large side yard, community pool. Great for 1st time buyer. Only $129,900.

INVESTMENT INCOME!

Two unit Auburndale duplex. Each unit has 2 beds & 2 baths and newer roof. Solid rental history. Asking $135,000.

*Please consult your tax advisor for your individual tax considerations.

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homes realestate

R UBBER M ULCH

s u b m it t e d by jo - a n l u s k

So…

How is the Real Estate Market?

That seems to be a loaded question these days. Never before have so many people been interested to hear my answer that question. I tell them, “It is great!” Here is why: For Realtors, a slower market can be a good time to take some educational courses, i.e., technology, certifications, etc. Many realtors consider focusing on a niche market, while others decide to move on to another career. It is also a great time to become more involved in their local board and community events. It’s an even better time to enhance your marketing efforts.

For Buyers, well, this is the market you’ve been wanting. You’ve read the reports, seen the news; now is the time to buy. There are several reasons why: 1) Interest rates are at 40-year lows, allowing you to afford more at a lower rate. 2) Home prices are adjusting and there are some extremely good deals on the market. 3) None of this will last for too long. There is no guarantee that rates will stay or decrease and the market is either at or near bottom for home prices. You may be waiting for rates and prices to continue to drop, but an increase of a fraction of a point on interest will negate what you might gain waiting for a price reduction. So…what are you waiting for?

For Sellers, it’s time to get realistic. What is your motivation to sell? Do you know what your competition is? Are you priced below your competition? Today your competition consists of foreclosures and short sale properties that are being priced to sell as quickly as possible. If you do not have to sell, then don’t sell. It is a hard and sad fact that in this depreciating market, your home may not be worth what you paid for it a few years ago.

It has been said that there is no such thing as a normal real estate market. Today’s market is constantly changing, making it difficult to predict what will happen in the future.

For all of us, we have a market in which prices are low, rates are low and inventory is high. It is a GREAT time to buy!

Jo-An Lusk Manager Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 82

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CARPORT FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 83

PRIVATE WOOD SETTING -

This home is situated on one acre of relaxed living, with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 1719 square feet. The superbly designed kitchen has center cooking island, lots of cabinets and niches, and ceramic tiled countertops.

The large family room opens to the kitchen and formal dining room, great for entertaining. Kids will enjoy the majestic trees that shade the fenced back yard. Priced at only $149,900. #58

COUNTRY GET AWAY…

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. $105,000. #67

SELLER’S PAIN IS YOUR GAIN!

Nearly 1200sf-Country Hills Bargain - 3BD/2BA, cathedral ceilings, fireplace & split plan. Enjoy large sc patio & 1c garage. Subject to Short Sale! $119,900. #63

CONVENIENT LOCATION WITH COUNTRY ATMOSPHERE -

NESTLE YOURSELF -

NEARLY $46,000 REDUCTION! –

OWNER SAYS SELL! REDUCED NEARLY $55,000 –

APPEALING BUNGALOW -

MATURE TREES LINE THE STREET

PARK-LIKE YOU!

FEELING WOODSY? -

LIVE THE AMERICAN DREAM…

3BD/2BA manufactured home with over 1600sf, built in 2001.

Large kitchen includes all appliances, center island & built-in desk. The sunk-in family rm features a lovely wood-burning fireplace. The bright and cheerful formal dining/living rm combination is perfect for entertaining. The home is located on a Cul-De-Sac with the lot size of ½ acre. Recreation vehicles are welcomed in this deed-restricted community. Priced at only $149,900. #24

Five beautiful acres surround this charming, 2 BD, 1.5 BA Home in Lithia! Located on quiet deadend road this secluded hideaway offers huge GR 19x24 & MB 24X16! Spring fed pond loaded w/ fish, 2 sheds makes this a great value at $295,000. (adjoining 5ac w/home also avail) #84

SETTING

AWAITS

3Bd/2Ba, 2005 DW, better than new, beautifully maintained country setting. $127,900. A must see! #17

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

This 2BD/1BA cared for charmer would be great for first time home buyers or empty nester. Most of the living area has newly installed wood floors. The kitchen includes, range, range hood, and refrigerator. The newly fenced in back yard is great for kids that includes many shade trees. The attached storage room includes washer and dryer hookup with storage. WHY RENT? Priced at only $ 99,000. #64

Nestled in canopy oaks you’ll find State Certified 3Bd/2Ba modular home, 2003 SF on 2.11 acres, is perfect country setting! Stainless steel appliances in huge gourmet kitchen, Family rm w/skylights, Master retreat includes office area. Extra Bonus rm for multitude of uses. A Must See @ $ 249,900. #95

RENTALS:

ACREAGE AND COMMERCIAL:

CEDAR RUN CONDO FOR RENT -

Hwy 574 - 1.33 AC, this highly visible corner site is perfect for retail, business office, warehouse, etc. Priced right @ $399,500. Please call for more info. #60

2Bd/2Ba - great condition, split bdrm plan, easy access to I-4, new Publix & more. $965/Month.

CHARMING BUNGALOW -

IDEAL COMMERCIAL POTENTIAL!

NESTLED IN THE WOODS -

Delightful 3Bd/1Ba w/Family rm, lovely hardwood floors. You’ll enjoy almost ½ acre on fully fenced corner lot. Single car, detached garage is great for storage. $1100/Month.

You‘ll find 10 gorgeous acres, serene pasture and trees, nearly 300+ft road frontage and charming 2Bd/2Ba cottage - ready to move into! Pretty wood beams, wood enhances home throughout, barn, well & septic. Great value and can be divided. $299,900.#62

4/2 doublewide mobile home built in 1972 and is situated on 2.39 acres in desirable Knights area.

The property is fenced and crossed-fenced. The price of the property is in the land, the mobile home is of little value. Priced at only $179,900.#35

This gorgeous 1.43 acres boast of beautiful grandfather oaks. This private refuge is perfect for commuters with all the conveniences and country living. The lot size is 150‘ x 394‘. Priced at only $139,000. #100

MUD LAKE ROAD - ADJACENT TO WALDEN LAKE

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

16 gorgeous 1+acre lots located in desirable Cork - Priced to sell from $85,000 to $128,000. Call to stake your claim on these wonderful country sites. #120-135

RECEIVE FLAT SCREEN TV WHEN YOU PURCHASE A HOME THRU VOGEL REALTY. CALL FOR INFO.

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813-659-3306 www.vogelrealtyservices.com

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

RIPE OPPORTUNITY -

HILDA’S HEAVENLY ACRES…

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 84

Spread your wings & all your things in this 3 BD 2BA, huge FR, LR & office w/2432 SF, 5 gorgeous ac in Lithia, minutes from Fishhawk! Beautiful new gourmet kitchen w/granite counters, upgraded appliances, custom cabinetry, tile floors & dining area. Enjoy Sc Lanai, workshop & Dbl C CPT. The manicured land offers a retreat from the hustle of it all! A must see! $449,000. (adjoining 5ac w/hm avail) #83

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Is There Truly a â&#x20AC;&#x153;No Closing Costâ&#x20AC;? Loan?

As you all know, any time you buy, sell or refinance a property, you will incur transaction expenses, commonly referred to as â&#x20AC;&#x153;closing costsâ&#x20AC;?. Recent advertisements have promoted, â&#x20AC;&#x153;No closing costâ&#x20AC;? loans for certain mortgage transactions. Take a look at the below information and you can decide if there is truly a â&#x20AC;&#x153;no closing costâ&#x20AC;? loan.

Refinances I think we all know the answer to this. Have you ever heard the saying, â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is no such thing as a free lunchâ&#x20AC;?? Well, the same holds true here. Purchase and refinance transactions carry transaction expenses or closing costs. Typical costs include broker/lender fees, title insurance, closing fees, recording fees, and government taxes. Again, some of these costs are government fees and taxes on the transaction.

Now do you really think the government is saying, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worry about this one guys, this one is on usâ&#x20AC;?? Of course you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t! So how can a lender really offer this? Basically, the lender will charge you a much higher rate than you would have otherwise received, and then they cover the cost of the transaction because they are receiving a greater return on their money. In addition to the higher rate, you still pay some costs that the lender reclassifies as a â&#x20AC;&#x153;feeâ&#x20AC;?, but not a closing cost. In some very specific scenarios, a no closing cost option may make sense, but these cases are few and far between.

Purchases In todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s market, many sellers are more than willing to offer closing costs concessions to a buyer. In other words, the seller would pay the transaction costs or â&#x20AC;&#x153;closing costsâ&#x20AC;? on the buyerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s behalf. This alleviates the out of pocket expense or burden of the buyer making the purchase more appealing. The costs are still there and do exist, but are paid for by the seller. Obviously, if a buyer was willing to pay for his or her own closing costs, they may be able to get a better price on the property, but with rates as low as they are, you are typically better off financing the costs of the transaction by having the seller pay for your closing expenses.

If you have any specific mortgage related questions, please feel free to email your questions to Nate@PlantCityMortgages.com Nate Davis Ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Plant City Mortgage 813.763.3910

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1406 W. Knight GrifďŹ n Rd Planty City, FL

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Gd]Yk] l`akĂ&#x203A;hYh]jÂ&#x203A; Nate Kilton REALTORÂŽ

(813) 732-3113 Cell

Hate Income Taxes?

DOLPHIN REALTY

208 Apollo Beach Blvd.

Apollo Beach, FL 33572

Contact me for a free, no obligation consultation about the income tax implications of your real estate transaction E IC ED PR UC D RE

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. Asking $279,000 Adjacent .80 acres under folio #20760630-0050 is being sold separately.

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) 5.2 ACRE MOL PROPERTY This 5.2 acre mol property is located on Colson Rd and is just minutes to Plant City, shopping, and dining yet still provides seclusion and privacy. Asking $225,000.

sold

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 $269,000

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.

FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ march 15 - april 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 87

Easter Worship Guide

2 0 0 8

Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ 1212 W. Reynolds Street Plant City, FL 33563 813-477-5130 Sunday Morning- 10 a.m.

Sunday Evening- 6 p.m.

Wednesdays- 7:30 p.m.

First Baptist Church of Midway 2902 Midway Road Plant City, FL 33565 813-752-7209 Midway Café- 9 a.m.

Sunday Worship- 10 a.m.

Wednesdays- 7 p.m.

First Baptist Church of Plant City 503 N. Palmer Street Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-4104 Sunday Worship- 8 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

Bible Study- 9:15 a.m.

fbc

Sunday Evening- 6:30 p.m.

Wednesdays- 6:30 p.m.

First United Methodist Church 303 N. Evers Street Plant City, FL 33563 813-754-3519 www.fumcplantcity.org Sunday Services: 8 a.m. Chapel Service 9 a.m. Contemporary 10 a.m. Sunday School 11 a.m. Traditional Services

BAPT

Come Join Us

Shiloh Baptist Church 1104 Cason Street Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-8345 Sunday School- 9 a.m.

Morning Worship-10:15 a.m.

Small Groups Sunday Evenings Wednesdays- 6 p.m. www.shilohbaptistpc.org

New Life Community Church 1514 S. Alexander St Suite 202 Plant City, FL 33563 813-759-9322 Sundays 10 a.m. www.newlifeplantcity.org

St. Clement Catholic Church 1104 N. Alexander Street Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-8251 Saturday Mass 4 p.m.

Sunday Mass: (English) 7 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

(Spanish) 8:30 a.m. & 7 p.m.

Daily Mass- 8 a.m.

(See ad for Easter Sunday Schedule)

Plant City Church of God 2103 Mud Lake Road Plant City, FL 33566 813-752-4591 Sunday School- 9:30 a.m.

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Sunday Morning- 10:30 a.m.

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Wednesdays- 7 p.m.

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8 1 3 - 752- 7209 • 2 9 0 2 MID WAY RD , P LANT CIT Y F L 3 3 5 6 5

The resurrection gives my life meaning and direction and the opportunity to start over no matter what my circumstances. ~Robert Flatt

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 91

Community Church â&#x20AC;&#x153;A place where everybody is somebodyâ&#x20AC;?

1st Sunday of the month, One Noon Service All day dinner on the grounds

! 4HRIVIN 2EVIVIN 4RUTH #HURCH 3UN -ORN AM s 3UN %VE PM 7ED "IBLE 3TUDY PM

1212 West Reynolds Street Plant City, Florida 33563

(Two blocks east of the hospital) &OR )NFO #ALL

FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ march 15 - april 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 92

813-759-9322 www.newlifeplantcity.org â&#x20AC;˘ Inquire@newlifeplantcity.org

Pastor: Rev. Fred Harrold Jr.

PRESENTS:

â&#x20AC;&#x153;THE LIVING CROSSâ&#x20AC;?

A Celebration of the Living Lord.

Written by Claire Cloninger and Gary Rhodes

March 21,22,23

Friday and Saturday 7p.m Sunday 10:15 a.m Child care provided for children up to 4 years old

The audience will encounter the mystery of creation, the Joy of the Saviorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birth, the call of the Disciples, the personal ministry of Jesus, His suffering death, His triumphant resurrection and his glorious ascension.

Then he said to Thomas, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Put your finger here, and look at my hands. Put your hand here in my side.

Stop being an unbeliever and believe.â&#x20AC;? Thomas said to him, â&#x20AC;&#x153;My Lord and my God!â&#x20AC;? Then Jesus told him, â&#x20AC;&#x153;You believe because you see me. Those who believe without seeing me will be truly happy.â&#x20AC;?

Admission Is Free All Are Welcome 1104 Cason Street Plant City, FL 33563

John 20:27-29

813-752-8345

First United Methodist Church of Plant City . %VERS 3TREET s $OWNTOWN 0LANT #ITY

813-754-3519

Holy Week Schedule of Events Palm Sunday - March 16

Worship at all 3 services will celebrate the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Triumphal Entry of Jesus into Jerusalemâ&#x20AC;?.

Join us and bring a friend!

Maundy Thursday - March 20 - 7:00pm

This will be a worship service commemorating the Last Supper of Jesus and the Disciples. Holly Communion will be served.

Community Sunrise Service

Easter Sunday - 7:30am At the Waterfront Pavilion in Walden Lake

Easter Sunday - March 23- Noon

8:00 - Breakfast will be served in the tent beside Wesley Center until 10:30am 9:00 - Contemporary Worship will be held in Wesley Center 10:00 - Sunday School Classes 11:00 - Traditional Worship will be held in the Sanctuary #HAPEL s #ONTEMPORARY s 4RADITIONAL s 3UNDAY 3CHOOL #HILDREN 9OUTH &ELLOWSHIP 7EDNESDAY %VENINGS

Senior Pastor Earl Smith

St. Clement Catholic Church invites you to

Walk with Jesus to Easter Sunday Holy Holy Thursday Thursday 3/20 3/20

Evening Evening Mass Mass of of the the Lordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Supper Supper 7pm 7pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C; This This bilingual bilingual liturgy liturgy will will lead lead into into adoration adoration of of the the Blessed Blessed Sacrament Sacrament until until Midnight Midnight in in the the Chapel.

Chapel.

Good Good Friday Friday 3/21 3/21

Commemoration Commemoration of of our our Lordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Passion Passion 33 pm pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C; English English â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘ 77 pm pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Spanish Spanish

Holy Holy Saturday Saturday 3/22 3/22

Blessing Blessing of of Easter Easter food food & & baskets baskets â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11:30 11:30 am am Easter Easter Vigil Vigil 88 pm pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bilingual Bilingual and and lasts lasts approximately approximately 33 hours hours

Easter Easter Sunday Sunday 3/23 3/23

Sunrise Sunrise Mass Mass â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 77 am am English.

English. Bring Bring lawn lawn chair chair and and gather gather in in front front of of Education Education Center.

Center.

Mass Mass will will be be moved moved to to church church in in case case of of inclement inclement weather. weather.

8:15 8:15 am am -- Spanish Spanish â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘ 10:45 10:45 am am â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C; English English â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘ 77 pm pm -- Spanish Spanish

ST. CLEMENT IS LOCATED AT 1104 N. ALEXANDER ST. (OFF I-4, EXIT 21 SOUTH) 0,!.4 #)49 &, s FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ march 15 - april 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 93

sports & fitness sports

Story and photo s by jo e bow les

send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Raiders Reach Regional Finals

Gaining Confidence in Spite of Loss From 1963 to 1993, Plant City Senior High has sent 14 teams as far as the semifinals of the Florida High School Athletic Association’s regional tournament. Six teams have advanced to the State final four, two have been the state runner-up and two have been crowned as the state champions. Since 1993, however, the Raiders have been in a playoff drought, that is, until this year.

After advancing to the regional tournament as the district runner-up to the Lakeland Dreadnaughts, the Raiders defeated District 7 champion Sickles High School on February 19th by a score of 49 – 35. Raider guard Rod Henderson led all scorers with 16 points. The win enabled the Raiders to advance to the regional semifinals against Lakeland, who have been Plant City’s nemesis all year long. One third of Plant City’s previous nine losses this season have come at the hands of the Dreadnaughts.

Relying on guard Channing Woodall’s 27 points, the Raiders avenged their previous losses to Lakeland by a score of 77 – 68 in front of a Lakeland High School gymnasium crowd that appeared to have more Raiders fans than the home team. Plant City relied on the 3-point shot, hitting 11 of them in the game. Five Raiders scored in double-figures.

Coach Chambers meets with team prior to third quarter

“That win felt real good. The community got behind us and we were playing for them as well as ourselves,” said first year coach Dale Chambers.

Chambers, voted “Hillsborough County Coach of the Year” felt as if his team “had raised their level of intensity in practice” through the course of the year, which has led to a steady improvement of play. Chambers also credited last year’s coach, Gary Meyer, for building a strong foundation and his assistant coach, Dave Robbins, for his contributions all year.

The win over Lakeland propelled Plant City to the regional final against Orlando Evans, played in Apopka on February 23rd. After exchanging leads all through the first half, Evans took control in the last four minutes of the third quarter and maintained dominance throughout the remainder of the game, prevailing by a final score of 70 – 52. Channing Woodall led the Raiders, scoring with 19 points.

Coach Chambers discusses strategy during a timeout FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 94

Despite losses early in the year, Chambers felt that his players were gaining confidence throughout the season. Every game seemed to be a close game, and, “By the end of the year our team was peaking at the right time.” The success of this year’s team also brought increased enthusiasm from the community. A large contingent of rabid Raider fans made the trip to Apopka, excited about the Raiders’ return to post season play.

Next season looks promising for Chambers, the former college star and member of the Washington Generals, the traveling opponent of the Harlem Globetrotters. “This year I was the new coach and the players were like freshmen in a way. Coaching this year was a pleasure. I had no attitude problems and I had great kids and great parents.”

Coming from the Washington D.C. community, Chambers fell in love with this area during a trip to the ACC basketball tournament last year. He wants to settle here in Plant City and, “Build a successful program.” If his first season is any indication of what lies ahead, then many trips to post-season play are in store for future Raider teams.

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813-759-0106 Fax: 813-759-0161

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Concentrations in: s %NVIRONMENTAL 3CIENCE s (ORTICULTURE AND ,ANDSCAPING s !DVANCED 7ATER 4REATMENT s 6ETERINARY 4ECHNOLOGY s )NTERNET 3ERVICES 4ECHNOLOGY s .URSING s )RRIGATION AND 0EST -ANAGEMENT #ERTIFICATES s %ARN A 5NIVERSITY OF &LORIDA "3 $EGREE IN %NVIRONMENTAL (ORTICULTURE .ATURAL 2ESOURCE #ONSERVATION AND !GRICULTURAL %DUCATION AND 'EOMATICS 3URVEYING AT THE 0LANT #ITY #AMPUS s %ARN AS YOU LEARN APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS AVAILABLE

6 I S I T U S O N T H E W E B A T W W W H C C F L E D U P C &O R M O R E I N F O R M A T I O N C A L L ( 8 1 3 ) 7 5 7 - 2 1 0 2 FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ march 15 - april 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 95

sports & fitness sports

Story by Joe Bow les / P hotos court esy o f C ourtney B i nni o n a n d L i n dy Mu r r ay

The City of Plant City Recreation & Parks Department’s semi-annual Youth Fishing Derby was held on February 2nd. Over 150 youth between the ages of six and 15 participated.

A new derby record was established by Cody Henderson, who caught the largest fish ever during one of the city sponsored fishing tournaments. Cody landed a 6 lb. 6 oz. mudfish.

After winning the district 6A-8 championship with a 5 – 4 victory over Sarasota Riverview on January 25th, the Plant City Raiders boy’s soccer team was eliminated in the first round of the state playoffs by Alonso High School 1 – 0 on January 31st at Raider Stadium. The Raiders boys’ soccer team ended the year with a record of 13-3-3, their best mark in school history.

The Plant City Raiders Black 9-and-under AAU baseball team won the statewide President’s Day (Fire Division) Tournament with championship round victories over the Dundee Hawks 13-3 and the Gainesville Dogpack 13-6 on February 3rd.

The Plant City Raiders 11-and-under AAU baseball team came in second place in the statewide President’s Day (Matrix Division) Tournament with championship round victories over the Bullets Baseball White 2-1 and the Kissimmee Titans 8-5, before losing in the finals to the Bullets Baseball Black 2-1 on February 3rd.

Plant City High School running back Keith Dawson was awarded an athletic scholarship to play football for the Jacksonville University Dolphins. Dawson was part of a potent backfield along with Sirchauncey Holloway that helped guide the Raiders to the district title this year.

The Tampa Bay Basketball Coaches Association named the following from Plant City to their All Western Conference Basketball Teams:

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 96

send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

National Division Girls Basketball: Sade Dunkley (First Team); Jade Forte (Second Team); Ginger Forte (Coach of the Year).

National Division Boys Basketball: Channing Woodall (First Team); Rod Henderson (Second Team); Dale Chambers (Coach of the Year).

1st, n/a 2nd, n/a 3rd; 10 yr boys- Rodney Ross 1st, Carson Knox 2nd, Jared Arnold 3rd; 11 yr. girls- Madison Bradshaw 1st, Taylor Ballantyne 2nd, Gabrielle Durant 3rd; 11 yr. boysWill Hippler 1st, Robert Seguin 2nd, Nathan Laatsch 3rd; 12 yr. girls- n/a 1st, n/a 2nd, n/a 3rd; 12 yr. boys- Jaynil Patel 1st, Jake Dube 2nd, Kevin Horwedel 3rd; 13 yr. girls- Amanda Williamson 1st, Denesha Bradley 2nd, Yikera Kurns 3rd; 13 yr. boys- Jonathan O’Toole 1st, Robby Knox 2nd, Michael Bennett 3rd.

The Opitimist Club’s 35th Annual Tri-Star Basketball Skills Competition was held on Saturday, January 26th at the Tomlin Middle School gymnasium with 62 participants.

Competition included dribbling against the clock through cones, chest and bounce passing to targets, and shooting (free throws and outside shots.)

Winners included: 8 yr. girlsPlayers on the state champion Raiders Black 9U team are from left to right. Front row: Bryce Sierra Laatsch Barter, Jonathan Donnell, Austin Binnion, Chris Gosselin, E. J. Ibarra. Back row: Ryan Boyd, 1st, Hailey Pitts Brandon Young, Dalton Wingo, Cameron Schneider, Spencer Nelson, Tate Whatley.

2nd, Ashley Ogden 3rd; 8 yr boys- Joe Merrin 1st, Jonathan Moncada 2nd, Matthew Mashburn 3rd; 9 yr. girls- Taylor Edgemon 1st, Shayna Lawrence 2nd, Lacey Hargrove 3rd; 9 yr. boysHenry Yoho 1st, Jordan Robinson 2nd, Nicholas Players on the state runner-up Raiders 11U team are from left to right.

Palestrini 3rd; Front Row: Collin Wetzel, Robert Seguin, Jeffrey Murray, Ben Carson, Parker Center.

Middle Row: Jeffrey Goodrich, Andrew Gmytruk, Landon Galloway, Heath Hanks, Alex 10 yr. girls- SaSpahman, Sawyer Dawson, Cody Colding, Tyler Chancey, Dalton Givens. Back Row vanna Garrison Coaches: Jeff Murray, David Carson, Ben Dawson, Tony Chancey, Steve Givens

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DPA screens for possible problems such as: Hardening of the arteries, Plaque build-up, Poor circulation, Heart strength or weakness, Pulse rate, Pulse height and Biological age of your cardio-vascular system.

Clinical indications: Hypertension, Arteriosclerosis, Atherosclerosis, Arrhythmias, Erectile Dysfunction and Migraine/Cluster Headaches.

Suggested products for cardiovascular support which we have available as needed: Argenix â&#x20AC;&#x201C; arterial stiffening and thickening are major risk factors for cardio-vascular disease.

Serrapeptase â&#x20AC;&#x201C; an enzyme that tends to digest the cement-like substance that holds the plaque to the artery walls.

Calcium EDTA & Aspartic Acid -have been shown to â&#x20AC;&#x153;clawâ&#x20AC;? out this calcium plaque. EDTA is PH sensitive.

Antioxidants â&#x20AC;&#x201C;prevent artery damage, improve circulation and keep the arteries free of debris.

Other nutritional factors â&#x20AC;&#x201C; help to lower cholesterol, triglycerides and homocysteine blood levels as well as preventing sticky platelets, increasing HDL levels while controlling LDL and VLDL levels. Some nutrients help to control blood sugar levels and high blood pressure while others strengthen the heart.

Remember, plaque is a combination of cholesterol, fat, fibrin and calcium.

Call for your appointment TODAY! 813-752-2524 Special Note: Remember March 23, 2008 is Easter, please take time to worship and celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord and Saviour.

Dr. Brenda Dukes â&#x20AC;˘ Chiropractic Physician s 7ALDEN 7OODS $R s 0LANT #ITY &,

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

fxäĂ&#x160;1Â&#x2DC;Â?Â&#x2C6;Â&#x201C;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;i`Ă&#x160; Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026; />Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;}Ă&#x160;EĂ&#x160;-ÂŤ> Expires 04/15/08

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1009 W. Baker St. Plant City, FL 33563 813-759-1232 www.nowcare.com

f£äĂ&#x160; Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;VĂ&#x160;-ÂŤĂ&#x20AC;>Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x160;/>Â&#x2DC; Expires 04/15/08

NIVERSARY

EAR AN -Y 1 R U O TE A R B LE E COME C !

ALL MONTH LONG

Ă&#x153;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x153;°Â?>Â&#x2DC;iĂ&#x152;Li>VÂ&#x2026;°VÂ&#x153;Â&#x201C;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160; Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x160;vĂ&#x20AC;>Â&#x2DC;VÂ&#x2026;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192;iĂ&#x160;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;vÂ&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;Â&#x201C;>Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x160;V>Â?Â?Ă&#x160;nnn°Ă&#x201C;Â&#x2122;ä°nĂ&#x201C;Ă&#x2C6;Ă&#x2C6; -Ă&#x152;Â&#x153;Ă&#x20AC;iĂ&#x160; Â&#x153;Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x192;\ Monday-Thursday 9am-9pm, Friday 9am-8pm, Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-4pm

Ă&#x201C;Â&#x2122;äÂ&#x2122;Ă&#x160; >Â&#x201C;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x160; Ă&#x160;,i`Â&#x201C;>Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x160;*Â&#x17D;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160;-Ă&#x152;iĂ&#x160;Â&#x2122;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160;*Â?>Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x160; Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x17E;]Ă&#x160; Ă&#x160;Ă&#x17D;Ă&#x17D;xĂ&#x2C6;Ă&#x2C6;

813-752-3224 FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ march 15 - april 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 97

sports & fitness athleteofthemonth

Story and Photo by Ho lly M allali eu

901 W. MLK Blvd.

Plant City, FL 33563 Office: (813) 754-2588

We Specialize In: Embroidery & Silk Screening Letterman’s Jacket Sports Equipment (All Sports)

high school athlete of the month

Kendall Dawson If there was ever an athlete to keep an eye on, Kendall Dawson is the prime example. With so many exceptional accomplishments, it’s hard to know just where to begin. Most recently, and certainly the most outstanding part of her athletic career thus far, Kendall signed to play softball with the University of Alabama, currently the very top ranked team in the nation.

Even though an incredible natural athlete, Kendall has been playing for years and is anything but a stranger to softball. Her love for the game began when she was just 6, and she continued to play consistently every year of her life following. She was a member of the Twilight Maniacs, which eventually turned into the Florida Gold Travel Ball team, which she is still a part of today. Now a senior, Kendall has played for the Plant City High School Raiders all four years of high school and is doing a fantastic job as pitcher for the 2008 season. Heidi Kouveras, who has coached Kendall since her freshman year, says she “is a tremendous athlete, who always plays hard and does what it takes to win. As a freshman at Alabama, she’ll be a great asset”.

Kendall is ranked one of the top 100 softball players in the nation, has been the recipient of multiple athletic awards, and is unarguably an incredibly talented softball player. She has made Plant City proud, and the very best of luck to her as she continues to excel!

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 98

Andy Knotts of Knotts Team Sports congratulates Kendall Dawson for being the Athlete of the Month

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 99

MARKLEY CHIROPRACTIC

Get Healthy, Lose Weight the Healthy Way in â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;08.

Dr. Guy Markley & Dr. Robyn Markley Judy Markley A.P. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Here, We Care. Serving the community for 25 years.

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sports & fitness sherrynueesch

s ubmit ted by s herry nueesch

Spuds and More Potatoes have been much misaligned with the low carb craze for the last few years. You see it written everywhere to “avoid” white foods. Mostly they are talking about potatoes, pasta, sugar and such.

Last time I looked, potatoes were beige. They also come in purple and various shades of red. I eat potatoes, but I don’t eat French fries.

Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C and B complex as well as potassium, calcium and iron. Most of the nutrients are just under the skin, so don’t peel them. The skin is a good source of fiber. Nothing can match the versatility of the potato, and potatoes in their simplest form can be as satisfying as the most complicated dish. Potatoes are the most digestible carbohydrate food. When I was a kid growing up on the farm, we used to go dig the potatoes in the summer, wash them, and put them straight in the oven. Now that’s a potato!! Those of you lucky enough to do that know what I’m talking about. In some people, potatoes raise blood sugar levels quickly, so potatoes may not be a good source for some diabetics. Doctors used to recommend potatoes for purifying the blood and for curing indigestion.

Let’s take a look at leeks. Leeks are a member of the vegetable family of garlic, onions, scallions, and shallots. They are milder than onions and very tasty. Leeks have been cultivated since before 3000 BC. They originated in Asia and have been relished in Europe for thousands of years. Leeks are a very good source of magnesium, vitamin C, iron, folate, and B6. They contain only 54 calories for a whole cup. Leeks help to lower bad cholesterol and raise the good. The combination of nutrients in leeks help them normalize blood sugars. Here is where the potatoes and leeks come together.

My Swiss husband started making a potato dish for me when we first married. It is a holiday staple at our home. Since potatoes can raise blood sugar levels in some individuals and leeks stabilize blood sugar levels, they are a perfect combination. Choose leeks that are no more than two inches in diameter. They should be firm

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 102

and not cut or bruised. Cut off the roots and the top four inches of green.

Peel the first two leaves off and discard. Slice the stem in half and then in cross sections about one inch thick. Rinse well because leeks usually contain a lot of dirt. Next, cut up some Yukon gold potatoes to boil (don’t peel). Make sure you have 60% leeks to 40% potatoes. Put in enough water in your pan to cover the leeks and potatoes. Boil the potatoes until they are just about done. Put the leeks in the pan and cook about 7 to 10 minutes. Drain the water and using a hand smasher, smash the leeks and potatoes. Next add sour cream to desired consistency. Finish off with sea salt and pepper and a dash of nutmeg.

Your finished dish will be a hit. You have married together two healthy vegetables that won’t spike your blood sugar and will give you great health benefits. Your family will swear that there are more potatoes than leeks. You will have a satisfying side dish with a lot less calories than smashed potatoes alone and with a lot more nutrients.

As always to your health.

Sherry Nueesch

We know we owe the Success of our practice to the patients and physicians who have encouraged and supported us over the past 18 years. We would like to thank everyone for their continued support.

AllCare Rehabilitation, Inc. OUTPATIENT PHYSICAL THERAPY

1214 W. Reynolds St. Plant City, FL | Phone: (813) 754-1062

Dan Manfre, P. T. - President

Serving the Plant City community since 1990 Allcare Rehabilitation offers physical therapy for injuries and conditions including the following: • • • • • • • • • •

Sprains and Strains Hand Injuries Sports Related Injuries Wound Care Management Fibromyalgia Neurological Conditions Dizzy Spells/Falls TMJ Therapy Heated Aquatic Therapy Neck and Back Pain

• • • • • • • • •

Auto Injuries Work Related Injuries Spinal Injuries Headaches Bone and Joint Surgery Spinal Cord Injuries Stroke Post Mastectomy Pediatric Orthopedic Therapy

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 103

local history didyouknow

submitted by P lant City Photo Archi ves S ources: Pl ant City Photo Archi ves p hotog r a p h ic a nd or a l h istory f i l es.

send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

School Days Exhibit NEEDS YOUR INPUT

In the black community the first school was the William Glover School in Bealsville. It followed the school fostered by and located within the Antioch Church and was constructed in the 1930s and expanded several times until it finally closed in the 1960s. This school has a strong following from its alumni, many of whom received widespread recognition. It is now on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a community center. Here is a photo from 1963.

Plant City Photo Archives is preparing a new exhibit based on your “School Days”. And, while we have many photos of those days, we need many more to complete the collection – and the stories of those school days of years past.

The Photo Archives Annual Gala on Saturday, March 29th, at the Red Rose Inn, will feature an exhibit based on “School Days”.

What we need are photos of school sponsored activities – you and your friends, and teams, and groups, and outings, and that sort. We don’t need anything that appeared in the yearbooks – we have all of those. We want the ones you kept in folded pages and treasured for all those years.

William Reece Smith just brought in a suitcase full of his early years and school days, some of which appear here. We know you have them, too.

We have a few photos of Pinecrest High School.

We need more. In fact we need more of all the schools, including the following: Bryan, Burney, Central (oops, that is an old one), Cork, Dover, Durant, Forest Park, Glover, Hopewell, Jackson, Knights, Lincoln, Marshall, Midway, Mt. Enon, Pinecrest, Plant City, Robinson, Seffner, Simmons, Springhead, Tomlin, Trapnell, Turkey Creek, Walden Lake, Wilson – and any others? Call us, and bring them in, or send them in.

The Midway Academy was constructed in Plant City for the black community and later evolved into Lincoln Elementary and Marshall High School. Under the leadership of its principal, E.L. Bing, Marshall High School garnered a solid reputation for its academic performance.

The earliest school of any substance was the old Central Grammar School, which grew into a high school and later became a junior high when the senior high students were sent to the new 1914 Plant City High School building. We are including in this section a photo of that old original facility The new Plant City High School constructed in 1914 and put into service in 1915 was the hub of many activities for many years. Today it still serves the community as a museum. Here is what it looked like in 1959 when it was converted to Tomlin Junior High.

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 104

And although there are many other photos and stories here, we will wrap it up with a view of the Plant City Senior High School that replaced the 1914 Plant City High School and today serves the community as Tomlin Middle School.

The high school moved to the new consolidated school, which included Plant City, Turkey Creek, and Pinecrest, and opened in the 1970s.

The annual gala, “An Evening of Picture Perfect Memories”, is scheduled for Saturday, March 29th, at the Red Rose Ballroom at the Red Rose Inn & Suites, beginning with a Champagne Reception at 6:30 PM. For reservations or further information call the Photo Archives office at 754.1578.

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Call 752-3740 to register today, space is limited FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 105

extra alruechel

s ubmit ted by al ruechel

Here’s My Answer Ditch the Phones!

I don’t pretend to be the smartest person on the face of the earth, but I like to think of myself as somewhat technology savvy. I know how to program my VCR or Tivo or whatever it’s called. I can operate both I-Macs and PC’s, though why on earth anyone would want a PC after owning a Mac is a mystery. I have a cell phone with tons of gizmos, and even thought about a Blackberry…until I noticed all my colleagues who have them don’t ever seem to have their heads out of their laps, and their thumbs seem to be twitching all the time, even when they don’t have a Blackberry near them.

Here’s my problem with wireless phones. I won’t mention the carrier name, never forwards my voicemails on time. I mean, what the heck, on Monday morning I get five voicemails from last week. Good thing I didn’t have important messages like, “Hey, there’s a recall on your pacemaker. Contact us immediately!” or “Your dog is wandering the neighborhood foaming at the mouth.” Not to worry, my dog just loves sneaking into the freezer for a nice quart of Cool Whip. And this happens, I kid you not, four out of five phone calls.

I don’t pretend to be the smartest person on the face of the earth, but I like to think of myself as somewhat technology savvy.

If that isn’t annoying enough, when I put my phone on the charger, it rings full blast, even when I put it on silent. Now, I’ve had wonderful conversations with the wireless company and they swear this doesn’t happen with their other customers. Wrong. It happens on my kid’s phones, too. I’ve hit star 280 or whatever it is over and over again to update my phone roaming capabilities. Nope, it still happens. And I can’t switch carriers, because if I do they hit me with a $5,000 penalty per line. Does this sound familiar?

And have you ever tried to replace a battery that is going dead? How about $49.95? I didn’t pay that for the phone in the first place. And have you noticed the phones all die about 3 months before your contract is up? Buy the insurance, for crying out loud, or you’ll end up paying $300 dollars for a $25 dollar phone. Of course, cheap-o-me, I forget to get the policy, so I’m expecting to get hit with a new phone in oh, say, a half hour from now. But remember, you can get 5 free phones if you just extend your contract for say, another decade. Such a deal!

And here’s my other phone pet peeve. Our automated phone system at work. For security reasons it seems to want to change my password about every two weeks, or so it seems. And you can’t use a password that you’ve used in the past year, or has any letters or numbers in your name or extension, has any repeated numerals, or has any easily repeated pattern on the keyboard. What? In other words, you can’t use consecutive numbers that might be in a straight line or form an “x” on the keyboard. You also have to completely change your password each time instead of changing just the numeral at the end of the password. Am I making any sense?

Perhaps I protesteth too much. Sure security is a pain and changing the passwords probably makes good sense. And maybe getting a voice mail three days late is better than not at all.

The alternative is going back to the old way: no phones in the cars, real people answering the phones, no passwords to remember, no minutes to count, no dropped calls, you might actually have to stop your car and find a pay phone, no more interruptions during a movie, no more trying to drive and talk at the same time. Sounds like a plan to me!!

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 106

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FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 107

extra thisibelieve

By fath e r c a r l o s ro jas send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Coffee 101 is hosting a monthly community event called This I Believe.

Modeled after the series on NPR reviving an Edward R. Murrow radio program from the 1950’s, This I Believe is a national media guide project engaging citizens in writing, sharing and discussing the core values and beliefs that guide their daily lives. Each month Focus will choose a This I Believe Essay to highlight and publish. Come join the group of This I Believe right here in Plant City every first Tuesday of the month at 6:00 p.m. held at Coffee 101. For more information call (813) 659-0101.

This Month’s This I Believe Article was written by Heather Davis, who is the owner of Coffee 101.

This I Believe…

That fear can be used for good. Fear is a fact of life, but we can choose what we want to do with fear. As a person who experienced the debilitating and immobilizing fear of panic attacks, I am no stranger to fear. But, instead of allowing fear to mold me I chose to embrace, investigate and even welcome it into my life. The harder I fought against fear the worse the fear became. At first, when feeling myself succumb to panic attacks, I felt myself the victim. Why me – why is this happening? I have to be strong and powerful.

But as I learned to embrace fear I allowed myself to feel open and vulnerable. These feelings opened up another feeling of strong compassion for others, along with a sense of wanting to reach out to help others and ask for help when I needed it.

YOUR VOTE CAN MAKE THIS HAPPEN!

VOTE MARCH 31 - APRIL 8 THANK YOU FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 108

I used fear to propel me into unknown territories. Each time I opened up to my fears I felt them diminish a little more. I have soon discovered that there was nothing to fear but fear itself. Recently I opened up a coffee shop. Each day I face my fears. Sometimes I feel defeated and vulnerable – sometimes I feel strong and victorious. But, I do know that each day’s challenges and fears of the day bring forth immeasurable joy and satisfaction when I realize how far I have come. From each fear I discover an opportunity to grow. I believe when used in the right way, fear can be my friend.

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extra askwhowhat

Sto ry a n d P hoto s by S h erry Bal dwin send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Ask Who What Question Submitted by

Candy Owens, Administrative Secretary, Plant City Photo Archives

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Response from

Mr. James â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sonnyâ&#x20AC;? Jones, Retired School Principal It is a tremendous feeling that they have the respect to do so. I enjoy it so much. More often than not, I am actually approached by students from 1962-1967 (not naming any names), when I was Assistant Principal at Plant City High School. That is when I swung the â&#x20AC;&#x153;big boyâ&#x20AC;? (paddle). Many of the students we put the board on will approach me at functionsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; asking me if I remember them. At one event, I was even approached by three brothers. Back then, kids were doing really awful things like running in the hall, smoking, pitching pennies (chuckling). Sometimes male students would even be sent to the office for leaning their chairs up against the Home Economics teacherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s classroom wall. These â&#x20AC;&#x153;kidsâ&#x20AC;? would be in their 60â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nowâ&#x20AC;Śamazing! Seriously though, it has been a real privilege to have worked with so many wonderful students. Even today, through my association with the Plant City Civitan Club, I see some of the greatest kids coming from our two high schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Durant and Plant City. I am so impressed by their many accomplishments. Yesâ&#x20AC;ŚI have really been fortunate.

FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ march 15 - april 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 110

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 111

extra WordsofCharacter

sto ry a n d p hoto s by k r i st en ton ey send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Cork Elementary School Shares What They Know About Honesty Each month, Focus Magazine is profiling several students from a Plant City area school and asking them for their personal definitions of that month’s character word.

This month we stopped by Cork Elementary School, and with the help of their counselor, Wendy Fitzgerald, we interviewed five students for their views on March’s word: Honesty.

Lucas Jones 8 Years Old Second Grade “Not lie to anyone and be truthful with people.”

Austin Johnson 10 Years Old Fourth Grade “Honesty means to tell the truth and not to lie.”

Left to right back to front: Alberto Aguilar, Austin Johnson, Chloe Christie, Devyn Hoffmann and Lucas Jones, students who know a lot about honesty at Cork Elementary School.

Alberto Aguilar 12 Year Old Fifth Grade “Honesty means a lot to me because I don’t like telling lies and I’m very honest and I tell the truth.”

Chloe Christie 9 Years Old Fourth Grade “Honesty means to tell the truth and be honest.”

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FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 112

Devyn Hoffmann 8 Years Old Second Grade “Not to lie and be helpful.”

Thanks to Elizabeth, Jonathan, Blake, Omar and Lucero for their help, as well as to Shirley Redcay for all she does for our children.

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 113

dining & entertainment diningprofile

Story and Photo s by W endy S. B row n

send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

La Gloria Latin American Sports Grill Come, Enjoy, Relax

New to the Plant City restaurant scene is La Gloria Latin American Sports Grill, formerly Bob’s Sports Grill near the old movie theater.

Open now more than two months, new owners Jason and Gloria Clayback offer great lunch specials, homemade items and Spanish bands Thursday through Sunday evenings. Jason put his wife’s name in lights with La Gloria and wants everyone to come, relax and enjoy!

This Plant City couple is used to hard work, elbow grease and dedication. Jason owns Lawns Done by Jason Clayback. He is used to managing and doing everything it takes to make a successful business. Jason stresses, “Customer satisfaction is key.”

With Gloria in the restaurant/bar management business working evenings and Jason working days, the couple rarely saw each other.

Knowing family is important, the Claybacks decided to open a restaurant together. His parents are the financial backers and mom found Bob’s Sport’s Bar for sale on the Internet. “Starting talks were on a Monday, and by Wednesday night we were told we could take over on Saturday. Yes it was quick, but

Jason and Gloria Clayback invite you to La Gloria Latin American Sports Grill.

Armando Salos, Alicia Lopes, and Potros Alvase enjoy drinks and socializing.

this restaurant is a family deal,” says Jason.

Asked what’s their favorite part of running this business, Jason responds that he loves seeing his wife every day and being able to eat meals together. Gloria loves meeting new friends.

Jason spends 14 hours a day at La Gloria.

Paying bills, ordering food and beverages, checking on staff, getting grills and steam tables ready, and readying for customers just starts the day. “Basically, I do it all,” stresses Jason. “Gloria manages the bar, waitresses and books entertainment. According to customer Gloria Williams, “The owners are always out talking to everyone, creating a very friendly environment.” Gloria Clayback states, “We are very clean, and not the typical sports bar.

We try to cater to everyone.” Providing a fun atmosphere of listening to music, watching TV, playing pool and fresh cooked meals, hopefully customers will enjoy themselves. There is a jukebox to play your favorite song, booths and tables covered in white and green checkerboard cloths, bar area and nighttime security during shows. Customer Armando Salos states La Gloria is, “The best place to eat and come for music. The wings are really good.”

La Gloria has an extensive appetizer menu.

Wings are the most popular order coming with eight different homemade sauces, while handpattied burgers are second. Macho nachos are tostada chips smothered with homemade chili, meat, mixed cheeses, refried beans, jalapenos,

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 114

The Asunsion Median family enjoys Latin music and the Macho Nachos.

crisp lettuce and fresh tomato. Jalapeno bottle caps, potato skins and corn fritters round out the appetizers. Sandwiches range from grouper to clubhouse, and Philly steak to chicken, all including fresh cut fries. Dinners range from grouper and fish and chips, to hand-cut steaks and grilled chicken all with fries, or baked potato after four, vegetable and salad. Latin items are enchiladas, burritos, quesadillas and tacos. Lunch specials of spaghetti, chicken fried steak, fish or Salisbury steak are $5.49. Talk about fresh! All sauces, chili, lunch specials and tortillas are made on the premises. Also try their apple pie alamode, black and white cheesecake, or a beer mug sundae.

La Gloria Latin American Sports Grill 226 West Alexander Street (813) 719-8187 www.lagloriasportsgrill.com No Children’s Menu Credit Cards Accepted Hours: Monday-Thursday 11:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m.

Friday-Saturday 11:00 a.m.-2:00 a.m.

Sunday 12:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m.

Menu range: Appetizers $1.99-$8.99 Sandwiches $4.95-$8.99 Dinners $7.99-$17.99 Desserts $3.49-$4.50 Latin flavors $4.99-$7.99.

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ck” with a ar, and it is ju be the 13th ye is “Stay On Tra ill an w og s ds have sl hi r T . ou ak ar This ye Hundreds of ki ring Bre .

Sp ts en ng ri ud st du e al ag Reviv for elementary a Kids Church unity outreach m u on track? m yo t co a ge is ar s ill this ye w strong! Thi s ar ye e th t through azy games, accepted Chris puppet skits, cr s, on ss le ct je ith awesome ob ship! jam-packed w be ill w e raise and Wor ic P rv h it w am Every se te TAG sages and our t - start now powerful mes e visitor contes m re xt E ng ri visitor each f the Sp ch qualifying ea noon: Kick of r to fo 0 n :3 ve 10 gi is ng int years old Sunday morni h you! One po s must be five it w or it ds is ki V t! of d gh ni as a rloa ay r regular roster and bring a ca orning to Tuesd ou m on ay be t nd no Su t us e, from grade! They m time they com d not over 6th an , each time! n, ag te et ar m rg na d get a an or in Kinde in gn si t us visitor m rs will be member. Each Hat - 3 winne ar ec ac R t es zi Cra arance and ss up contest is a special appe re g D in : ak 30 m 8: to be ill 6:00 Man Circus w Sunday night Fritzy the One s ou m fa he T chosen! be entertained!

Dress up conyou are sure to be performing! ill w ir ho C s n’ ur own Childre 00 to 8:30: O 6: t chosen! gh be ni ill y w da Mon winners ee hr T ! lly bi Hill will givtest is the best No Deal”! We r O l ea “D of d a girl will be ve our version A lucky boy an 30: We will ha !

8: es to iz 00 pr 6: g t bi gh a e winners will d lots Tuesday ni is night, and th rl’s bicycle, an th gi ds a en d t an es s nt y’ ing away a bo ght! Visitor co on Tuesday ni ed im sl be to chosen raise and be announced! t your ears! P ou es m co it il ‘t and Ice cream (For questions call Greg Davis, Children’s Pastor) to 8:00: Pizza 30 6: t gh ni Wednesday t! en tertainm worship and en

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FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 115

dining & entertainment entertainmentstory

Story by Daniel Sperry / Photos Court esy o f T he R ed Ro s e I nn an d S u it e s

send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Three Big Bands Come to Plant City

Rock n Roll With The Stars Was Exceptional On February 16th, the Red Rose Inn and Suites hosted an amazing night of entertainment and nostalgia. The Rock n Roll With The Stars event was one of the most ambitious programs that has come to Plant City in recent years. The Red Rose is well-known for the talent they attract for their performances, particularly from the Do Wop era of American pop music, but the February show took their already stellar reputation to a new level.

The show featured not one, but three big acts from the sixties. Opening the night was the Red Rose’s own band Destiny, who were followed by another Red Rose regular, P.J. Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds. After Leary finished warming up the crowd and as the audience finished their meals, the headliners came to the stage.

First up was La La Brooks, well-known as the lead singer from the legendary Phil Spector girl group, The Crystals. Famous for their songs, “He’s a Rebel” and “Da Doo Ron Ron,” the Crystals were one of the most successful groups of their era, and La La Brooks led them for many years. She brought her distinctive vocal talents to the Red Rose Dining Room and had the crowd swaying and clapping as she performed her hits from the sixties along with new material and covers of some of her favorite songs by other artists.

Original lead singer of the Crystals.

After La La Brooks, George Galfo’s Mystics took the stage. The Mystics are best known for their hit, “Hushabye,” which hit number 20 on the charts in 1959.

George Galfo was one of the original members of The Mystics and has carried the tradition of the original band into their modern performances. As soon as they took the stage their energy and enthusiasm filled the room. The vocals and harmonies were outstanding and the audience’s appreciation of their performance was clearly evident. The voices of The Mystics filled the room and the crowd was transported back to bygone days when rock and roll meant good times and bands were known more for their music than for their personal drama.

Following George Galfo’s Mystics was The World Famous Platters, another hugely popular band from the fifties and sixties. The Platters had big hits with their recordings of “Only You,” “The Great Pretender” and “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes.”

The World Famous Platters paid tribute to the original band by bringing together some of the best vocal talent to recreate some the biggest hits of the era. As a grand finale, this act could not be beat. Their harmonies and melodies were pitch-perfect and their performance of “Only You,” was amazingly touching.

George Galfo’s Mystics.

Without a doubt, The Red Rose is one of the best places in the area to find quality dining and entertainment on a consistent basis. With their in-house talent and out of town guests, they make every event an evening to remember. Priding themselves on their atmosphere and quality, The Red Rose never fails to impress locals and out-of-towners with their reasonable prices and impressive productions. Bands that perform always seem to be truly enjoying themselves and their emotion seems to translate to the audience week after week. Whether a major name is headlining, or a local group is performing, The Red Rose can always be counted upon for a special evening out.

The World Famous Platters, Lawrence “Rooster” Lockard, Eddie Stovall, Willie Nash and Rico Johnson.

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 116

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FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ march 15 - april 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 117

dining & entertainment entertainmentstory

Story by Audrey D eDo n / Photo s by So p h i a H y d e

send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Plant City Players Just Getting Started

Bringing Arts Together For One Show The Plant City High School “Plant City Players” of troupe 1449 made a musical break out in their recent show “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum.” The perfor-

mance, which took place the fourth weekend in February, pulled together the four arts of PCHS, Chorus, Band, Drama, and Visual. All were used to put together what many community members are calling the “best show in PCHS history.”

Four of the lead actors are members of the PCHS’s show choir and the orchestra included four current band members as well as three alumni. Under the direction of PCHS teachers Van Frost and Ian Peacock (music director) the students put in three months of practicing almost every day after school and Saturdays to pull off such a complex piece.

The drama department has moved on now and has just completed casting for their upcoming production of “The Diary of Anne Frank.”

The show will be bringing back five of the lead actors from “Forum” in the 10 member cast, as well as some other familiar faces from “Forum.”

Frost commented that he is “excited about doing ‘Anne Frank’ because it’s the first dramatic show the high school has done all year.”

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 118

The play will be showing May 8 to 10 at the high school. Come out and support the drama department in what is thought to be “the most important show the high school had done in the past five years.”

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Mojo Kitchen

Partnering Brothers Produce Funky Music Kris Smith started singing at a very early age and never stopped. His exposure to music at church and school was pivotal in his life and set him on a musical path that has taken him into adulthood.

Along with his brother Josh Norman, he has

started a band called Mojo Kitchen. “We play a lot of blues oriented rock and some older stuff but we make it funky,” said Smith.

Smith lives in Plant City, but plays across the state. “I now play the Jacksonville circuit quite a bit,” he said.

“And I play regularly with Charlie Walker.” Smith is proficient on the guitar, piano and trumpet, but his favorite instrument in the harmonica, or “harps,” as he calls it. When he is not working on his new band, he plays with Plant City band, Code Blue and contributes in various ways with his diverse instrumental talents.

Kris Smith pours his soul into the guitar at a recent local concert

Above all, though, Smith credits his faith for his musical success.

He calls it his “harps,” but everyone else just marvels at his talent on the harmonica

“Jesus is a huge part of my life and he has definitely blessed me with the talents I possess,” said Smith. In addition to his musical talents, he also teaches ballroom and Latin dance in Plant City.

As with his music, he thinks it a way to touch people’s lives. “I think I help a lot of people and want to help more people,” said Smith.”I think what we are all supposed to do and I strive to do continuously without fail.”

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FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 120

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FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 121

Come Celebrate Afternoon Tea with the 2008 Strawberry Festival Queen and Her Court.

March 21 at 3:00 p.m.

By reservation only.

We Celebrate Friendship, Fine Teas, and the traditional English tea time with a Southern Flair We are now serving weekday lunch Tuesday-Friday.

Homemade Soups, Garden Fresh Salads, Sandwiches, and of course Strawberry Shortcake!

We love to celebrate all occasions, after all, afternoon tea is a celebration of time spent with friends and family! Whether it be large or small, let us help you celebrate your next special occasion. We specialize in birthday celebrations, bridal and baby showers, church groups, business and civic group meetings. Our tea room can accommodate up to fifty guests.

We invite everyone to stop in for a sample of our “Drop Red Gorgeous Strawberry Tea” as we celebrate the 2008 Strawberry Festival.

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FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 122

, All U Saturday ish n’ Can Eat F 5 Chips $9.9

Once again the Plant City community voted for their favorite restaurants in the area, and Focus Magazine hosted a party in their honor! Live music, food

2007 FOCUS

catered by Carrabba’s, drinks and lots of great giveaways were all a part of this years’ Reader’s Choice Awards/ Focus Magazine Anniversary Party/ Chamber After Hours. About 600 people turned out, even on a rainy evening, to celebrate the occasion.

Congratulations to all of the following winners!

Story by Kristen Toney Photos by Billy Friend and Paula Meyers

2007 FOCUS

Best Dessert, Best Seafood, Most Romantic, Best Overall Service

Red Rose Dining Room

The Red Rose Dining Room has won the award for Most Romantic several times now, however, this year they marked their second as Best Seafood and Best Overall Service. The Red Rose Dining Room is open for lunch 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Monday - Saturday. Dinner hours are 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Monday - Thursday and 5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Fridays - Saturdays.

Sunday hours are11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Call (813) 759-1888 for reservations.

2007 FOCUS

Best BBQ Johnson Barbeque

The Johnson family opened Grandpa Johnson’s BBQ at this location in 2003. This is the fifth year it has been voted Best Barbeque by the Readers Choice Awards. If you call ahead at (813) 759-0009 they will have your meal waiting for you as soon as you arrive at the drive-thru. Located on West MLK next to Fred’s Market, their hours are 11:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays.

2007 FOCUS

Best Chicken Wings Beef O Brady’s

This the first year for the Best Chicken Wings award, and Beef O Brady’s took control! Mild, Medium, Hot, Extra Hot, NUCLEAR, Honey BBQ, Garlic or Teriyaki are all reasons Beef’s was voted for this honor. As a whole, the company serves over two million wings a week! 2418 Jim Redman Parkway is where you can find them, and they can also be reached at (813) 757-0300.

2007 FOCUS

Best Hamburger Checkers

Obviously, a Checker’s hamburger cannot be beat! Our Plant City location sits at 2405 James L. Redman Parkway, and is currently kicking some appetite with its new Texas Toast Cheeseburgers! The Texas A.1. Cheddarburger and Texas Cheddar Buford are both new features on the menu. With the convenience of a double drive-though and a winning team that enjoys serving their customers, stop by or call them at (813) 759-0151.

2007 FOCUS

Best Coffee Coffee 101

Brand new to Plant City and perfectly situated in the downtown area is Coffee 101, a first-time winner of this first-time award!

Sit in their café or at an outdoor table, or come through their drive through quickly if you’re in a hurry for a cup of coffee, a smoothie, chicken salad or yummy pastries. Located at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Boulevard, they can be reached at (813) 659-0101.

2007 FOCUS

Best Cuban Norma’s

Another multiple-year winner! It was nearly 20 years ago that Norma’s migrated over from Ybor City to be the first Cuban restaurant in town. Call (813) 754-6557 to place your order today, or to call in your lunch for pick-up. This family owned business is opened Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. and is located at 1305 E. Baker St.

2007 FOCUS

Best Hometown Cookin’, Best Breakfast

Fred’s Southern Kitchen

Once again, it looks like the readers felt no other restaurant held to the standard set by Fred’s Market. This is the fifth time they have been voted best in the two categories. Located at 1401 Dr. MLK Jr. Boulevard, the restaurant has been here since the 1960’s and was purchased by the Johnsons in 1998. They are open Monday through Saturday from 6:00 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. and closed on Sundays.

2007 FOCUS

Best Fried Chicken Maryland

For the fifth year in a row, Plant City has accredited Maryland Fried Chicken for having the best fried chicken in town. They are next door neighbors to the hospital and are located at 315 North Alexander Street. They offer complete meals for dine-in or carry out. They are open 11:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday and closed on Sunday. Call (813) 752-9200 to order your chicken today!

2007 FOCUS

Best Italian Carrabba’s

Carrabba’s has taken the city by storm! Carrabba’s believes it is their duty to move each guest beyond the function of eating a meal to truly enjoying a complete dining experience. A great feature of Carrabba’s is that you can look at their entire menu online, then go to their pickup area and procure your lunch or dinner. They are located at 1205 Townsgate Court, and their phone number is (813) 752-0760.

2007 FOCUS

Best Mexican Mi Casa

Mi Casa is now a five-time winner of this award. They are located at 2613 Thonotosassa Road in the Publix Shopping Center. The beautiful restaurant is owned by Pat and Guillermo Gama, who opened it in September 2003. They feature authentic Mexican and Southwest cuisine. Regular hours are 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Fridays and Saturdays. Their number is (813) 752-0057.

2007 FOCUS

Best Oriental China One

This is the second year China One has taken this award home!

If you have a family member who doesn’t have a full taste for Chinese food, China One also offers special Chinese American dishes such as Fried Chicken Wings, Fried Shrimp and Boneless Spare Ribs. They are located at 1862 James L. Redman Parkway in the Staples Plaza, and if you wish to place a take-out order, call them at (813) 707-8898.

2007 FOCUS

Best Milkshake Dairy Queen

This is the second year in a row Dairy Queen has taken this prize! The building there today was built in 1980 by the current owner’s father. Creamy DQ soft serve ice cream blended together with milk is available in a variety of flavors, making the Reader’s Choice Award for Best Milkshake well deserved! Stop and see them at 1902 W. Reynolds Street or give them a call at (813) 752-2236.

2007 FOCUS

Best Pizza CiCi’s

Their tagline is, “Where everybody goes home happy”, and that’s definitely the case in Plant City, as CiCi’s swept away the Best Pizza award! Their variety of toppings can’t be matched, not to mention their salads, pastas and desserts. Located at 211 West Alexander Street in the Sweetbay shopping center, they can also be reached at (813) 659-3400. Stop in for an endless variety of family-friendly eats!

2007 FOCUS

Best Salad Applebee’s

Pecan-Crusted Chicken, Grilled Chicken Caesar, Oriental Chicken, Santa Fe Chicken or Grilled Shrimp ‘N Spinach, Applebee’s meets the need when you’re craving green, according to Plant City. Congratulations to this first-time award winner! With happy hour all day every day, ½ price appetizers, late evening hours and some of the friendliest servers around, visit them at 1204 Townsgate Court or call for your to-go order at (813) 719-1500.

2007 FOCUS

Best Soup Panera Bread

More chain restaurants have come to Plant City as time goes on, and our residents have declared their love for Panera Bread! From their variety of baked goods to their awesome soups, sandwiches, salads and more, you’re sure to find something you like at Panera. Their dedication to the community has quickly become evident, and Plant City has welcomed them with open arms! Call them at (813) 659-0864 or stop in at 2909 James L. Redman Parkway.

2007 FOCUS

Best Strawberry Shortcake Parkesdale

The only recipient to win the same award six years in a row, Plant City still thinks Parkesdale Farms has the best strawberry shortcake in town. Located at 3702 West Baker Street, they have been in business since 1969. Stop by any day of the week from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. and taste it for yourself. During the festival they are open an extra hour. Call (813) 752-0502 to find out more!

2007 FOCUS

Best Steak Outback Steakhouse

Everyone loves a good steak, and Plant City people have chosen to “go Outback tonight” with their vote of confidence for Best Steak. Great people, great atmosphere and great location are all factors that have come together in this chain restaurant that has found a place in our town. The company as a whole is celebrating their 20th birthday, and we hope the restaurant finds 20 years and more here in Plant City. 1203 Townsgate Court is where you can find them, but call them for quick food pick-up at (813) 759-4329.

Event Calendar March 15, Saturday The annual Strawberry Sock Hop fundraiser for the Cornerstone Center will be held at the Brownlee Barn on Berry Patch Road.

Food will be available from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with the Taste of Old Plant City, and a DJ and dance contests will be featured from 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.

This years’ event is a tribute to Jeanie Burt. Tickets are located around Plant City at various businesses. For more information, call Jeri Brownlee at (813) 659-0421.

The 18th Annual Model Train Show sponsored by the H.B. Plant Railroad Historical Society will be held at the Hillsborough Community College Plant City Campus John Trinkle Building from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.

There will be scale model layouts, Operation Life Save presentations, and over 120 vendor tables included. The Florida Chapter Morse Code Operators and the Greater Florida Lego Train Club will both be on hand, as well.

Admission is $6 for adults, and children 17 and under are free with a paying parent. For more information, call Gilbert Thomas at (863) 412-3090.

Automobile Dealers Association are holding the Operation Kidsafe National Safety Tour, including free digital fingerprint and photo safety program. Operation KidSafe captures your child’s picture and fingerprints using a digital inkless fingerprint capture device and specialized software.

The captured data is assembled and a printout is given to the parent. The parent can use the printout to provide law enforcement anywhere in the world to instantly aid in a missing children’s investigation. For more information, contact Jarrett-Scott Ford through www.jarrettscottford.com or call Operation KidSafe at (866) 962-5487.

Musical guest Black in the Mind will be performing at Coffee 101 in downtown Plant City, beginning at 7:00 p.m. For more information, call (813) 659-0101 or visit www. espressyourself101.com.

The Spring Berry Boogie 5K & Mile Fun Run/Walk will be held at Mike Sansone Park. Day of fees are $20 for the 5K, $15 for the Fun Run/Walk and $10 for the Kids Race. T-shirts, trophies and medals are awarded. For more information, call Deborah at (813) 659-4200 X 4343.

In a supper club atmosphere in the Red Rose Inn Ballroom, Cahal Dunne’s Grand to be Irish Show, along with P.J. Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds before and after, will be performing. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites. com.

The Miss Heart of Plant City Pageant will be held at Plant City High School, beginning at 2:00 p.m. for the Tiny, Little and Junior Miss, and 6:00 p.m. for the Teen and Miss. Tickets are $12 each.

For more information, call (813) 478-8873 or e-mail MissHrtofPC@ aol.com.

Jarrett-Scott Ford and the Florida

The Strawberry Classic Car Show

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 128

March 15th - April 15th

will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. in downtown Plant City.

1983 and older cars and trucks will be on site, along with entertainment. Vendors dash plaques will be presented to the first 200 registered vehicles, and registration and admission are free.

For more information, call (813) 754-3707.

March 15 – April 15, Saturday – Tuesday

6:30 p.m. Learn about the recent local drought conditions, what you can do to help preserve our water resources for future generations and receive a garden hose kit. Ed Tobin from the Southwest Florida Water Management District will be giving a guest lecture and discussing Florida hydrology, all free.

For more information, call Mark Woodward at (813) 757-9289 X 2249.

March 21, Friday

Goodwill’s BookWorks program is accepting donations of books!

Just attach a note marked for BookWorks to your new or likenew books for preschool-age children. The program brings volunteer readers together with children from low-income households to promote childhood literacy. To volunteer as a reader for the program, call Goodwill Community Relations at (888) 279-1988 X 1013. For more information, contact Chris Ward at (727) 450-5211 or chris.ward@ goodwill-suncoast.com.

March 16, Sunday Prayer will be held for our City, our Election year, our families and other issues at the Cornerstone Center from 7:30 a.m. until 8:30 a.m. For more information, call (813) 752-4671.

Drum Circle will be held at Coffee 101 in downtown Plant City, beginning at 7:00 p.m. For more information, call (813) 659-0101 or visit www.espressyourself101. com.

Planteen Teen Night will be held from 7:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m.

The evening costs $7 per person and is for ages 12-15. For more information, call Stephen at (813) 659-4255.

Good Friday.

Ralph Allocco and Second Wind will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites. com.

March 21 – 22, Friday – Saturday

March 17, Monday Happy St. Patrick’s Day! March 20, Thursday Stop the Hose Bandit Water Conservation Program will be held at the Utilities Building, beginning at

R.W. Willaford will have the Easter Bunny at his Easter Caboose at his home at 908 Joe McIntosh Road, off SR39 North in Plant City. Willaford has been offering his fully restored caboose for the enjoyment of children and their families for years. For more infor-

Event Calendar mation, call (813) 759-3345.

March 22, Saturday Musical guests Everleen and Embracing Lief will perform at Coffee 101 in downtown Plant City, beginning at 7:00 p.m. For more information, call (813) 659-0101 or visit www.espressyourself101. com.

Kids Night Out will be held at the Planteen Recreation Center from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Cost is $5 per person and is for ages 6-12. Special KNO: Money Find, Gold Coin Find and lots of prizes!

For more information, call Chris at (813) 659-4256.

tors! Any child who brings in two canned goods items will receive one game ticket free (a limit of six cans per child), and all monies raised will go to the church’s Operation Compassion ministry. For more information, call the church at (813) 752-4591.

In a Supper Club Atmosphere in the Ballroom, Jason D. Williams and P.J. Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds will be performing in the Ballroom at the Red Rose Inn & Suites. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www. redroseinnandsuites.com.

March 23, Sunday Happy Easter!

The 19th Annual City Wide Easter Egg Hunt will be held at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex.

Games start at 9:30 a.m. and Stage Act starts at 10:00 a.m.

Enjoy photos with the Easter Bunny, inflatables, rock climbing, face painting, caricature artist and much more! Please bring your own Easter basket for the egg hunt, ages 3-11 years. For more information, call Stephen at (813) 659-4255 or visit www.plantcitygov.com/rec.

Plant City Church of God will be hosting their 2nd Annual Eggstravaganza on their campus, from 10:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.

Ages 12 months to 4 years will hunt eggs at 11:30 a.m., and ages 5 years to 5th Grade will hunt at 12:30 p.m. Other activities include moonwalk, face painting, cotton candy, sno-cones, slingshot toss, football toss, 10-minute massage and a dunk tank where you can dunk one of the pas-

March 28, Friday Friday Night Jam Session will be held at Coffee 101 in downtown Plant City. For more information, call (813) 659-0101 or visit www. espressyourself101.com.

March 29, Saturday The 2008 Little Miss Plant City contest will be held at Plant City High School, beginning at 6:00 p.m. All former Little Miss Plant City title holders are invited to be guests and be recognized on stage. For more information, contact Bobbie Ehrenfeld at (813) 967-2597 or e-mail myrealtorbobbie@hotmail.com.

A Coffee and Desert Pairing Fundraiser will be held for Habitat for Humanity, beginning at 7:00 p.m. at Coffee 101 in downtown Plant City. For more information, call (813) 659-0101 or visit www.

March 15th - April 15th

espressyourself101.com.

April 5, Saturday

The Plant City Photo Archives’ annual gala, An Evening of Picture Perfect Memories, will be held at the Red Rose Ballroom at the Red Rose Inn, beginning with a champagne reception at 6:30 p.m. The theme this year will be School Days, and will feature photos from your days in the schools of your memories. Please submit your photos! The evening will also feature live jazz music, hors d’oeuvres and the Heritage Award presentation. Admission is $85 per person and reservations may be made through the office at (813) 754-1578.

Hillsborough Community College is celebrating their 40th anniversary! The free event including food, games, music and mini expo will begin at noon on their campus.

For more information, contact Susan at (813) 390-2522.

The Pregnancy Care Center of Plant City will hold their Walk for Life, starting at 8:00 a.m. at the Plant City Stadium Complex. To be a t-shirt sponsor, a helper with the walk or a walker, call (813) 759-0886 or e-mail info@pccpc. net.

Ralph Allocco and Second Wind will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites. com.

April 4 – 6, Friday – Sunday In a Supper Club Atmosphere in the Ballroom, the Legends of Doo Wop, Arlene Smith’s Chantels, the Orlons, the Mystics, Ralph Allocco & Second Wind, and Destiny will be performing at the Red Rose Inn & Suites. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites. com.

April 10, Thursday Turkey Talkin’ will be held at the Public Works Building, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Kids ages 4-12 will learn about how wild turkey is managed, play games and get to talk to a real-life turkey scientist from Florida Fish and Wildlife.

Class is free and pre-registration is required. For more information, call Shawna Everidge at (813) 757-9289 X 2249.

April 12, Saturday Activate America YMCA Healthy Kids Day will be held at the YMCA. Free and open to the public! A great day of family activities, snacks, demonstrations and giveaways to help you and your family lead a healthy lifestyle will be included. For more information, call (813) 757-6677.

Ralph Allocco and Second Wind will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites. com.

Recurring Events Mondays: Zumba is held at the Planteen Recreation Center from 6:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Cost is $5. For

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 129

Event Calendar more information, call Chris at (813) 659-4256 or Patty at (813) 516-4731.

Tuesdays: Heart Health Screenings and Blood Pressure Checks are held from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. in the South Florida Baptist Hospital Community Resource Center (main hospital lobby). No appointments are necessary and this event is free. For more information, call (813) 754-4444.

Free Time Jazz begins performing at 7:00 p.m. at the Red Rose Dining Room. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www. redroseinnandsuites.com.

March 15th - April 15th

Wednesdays: Knitting Group is held at Coffee 101 in downtown Plant City.

For more information, call (813) 659-0101 or visit www.espressyourself101.com.

Thursdays: Bluegrass Jam Session is held at Coffee 101 in downtown Plant City.

For more information, call (813) 659-0101 or visit www.espressyourself101.com.

Zumba is held at the Planteen Recreation Center from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Cost is $5. For more information, call Chris at (813) 659-4256 or Patty at (813) 516-4731.

Destiny, the House Band of the Red Rose Dining Room, will perform for Single’s Night Out with special guest Ralph Allocco.

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

Free Time Jazz begins performing at 7:00 p.m. at the Red Rose Dining Room. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www. redroseinnandsuites.com.

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 130

Fridays: Destiny, the House Band of the Red Rose Dining Room, will perform. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.

redroseinnandsuites.com.

Saturdays: Zumba is held at the Winter Visitor Center from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Cost is $5. For more information, call Chris at (813) 659-4256 or Patty at (813) 516-4731.

Free Time Jazz begins performing at 7:00 p.m. at the Red Rose Dining Room. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www. redroseinnandsuites.com.

Destiny, the House Band of the Red Rose Dining Room, will perform. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www. redroseinnandsuites.com.

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FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 132

FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 133

“THE TASTE IS RIGHT IN EVERY BITE”

CHICKEN & SEAFOOD New Early Bird Specials Starting at $5.49 Daily from 2pm-5pm (Dine-In Only)

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FOCUS Magazine • march 15 - april 15, 2008 • Page 134

Fresh Chicken, Never Frozen

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