FOCUS Plant City 07-07 July 2008

Free Take One Vol. 7 No. 7

PLANT CITY EDITION

Mac Harriman You Deserve This!

Feature

The Planteen Center

Check Out Our Business FOCUS Section

Dangers of Cellphones

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 2

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WE SERVICE ALL MAKES AND MODELS. FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 3

tabl e o f co n t e n ts

business focus 47-63

This issue includes our second installment of Business FOCUS for this year. This section allows local businesses to spotlight their products and services, providing a guide for Plant City consumers. Take a look at what they have to offer. Then, buy local whenever you can! It’s good for Plant City.

i ssu e 7- 7 on the cover:

Mac Harriman

MAGAZINE

photo by Mike Floyd

FREE TAKE ONE VOL. 7 NO. 7

PLANT CITY EDITION

Editor Lynne Warren lwarren@floydpublications.com Office Manager DeDe Floyd dede@floydpublications.com

Mac Harriman

Credit Department Holly Dedon hdedon@floydpublications.com

You Deserve This!

FEATURE

The Planteen Center

Business MAGAZINE

Publisher Mike Floyd mike@floydpublications.com

SALES Sophia Hyde shyde@floydpublications.com Check Out Our Business FOCUS Section

Dangers of Cellphones

spotlight 64-67

Many of us are becoming part of what is known as the ‘sandwich generation’ – taking care of elderly parents, while still caring for our own children. Recently, a new assisted living facility opened in Thonotosassa providing a not-so-typical option for caring for older folks. Stone Ledge Manor is not your typical assisted living facility.

It embodies luxury, and has amenities one would never expect: spacious rooms, wonderful country atmosphere, a concierge, and an executive chef, just to name a few.

local 7-41 With summer in full swing, we take a look at some outstanding local youth.

Karate, aviation, and gymnastics are just some of the activities in which these kids are active. We also feature people and organizations who are doing good things in our community. And, during strawberry season we hear a lot about our local berry farmers, but what do they do when it’s not strawberry time? This month we talk with a local farming family to find out.

sports & fitness 98-104 Buddy Cason was a treasure, a man who had the opportunity to play professional football, but chose instead to focus on his family. He became a teacher, and enriched the lives of many local youth along the way. In our Sports section this month, we say goodbye to Buddy Cason. Summer means little league post-season play and championship games – take a look at our Sports Highlights to see what teams are celebrating post-season wins. And, don’t forget to check out the Athlete of the Month for July: Travis Hippler.

dining & entertainment 122-134 How about a vacation? Gas prices and the economic slowdown keeping you at home this summer? Maybe you should take a stay-cation. The Red Rose Inn & Suites right here in Plant City provides a variety of activities, entertainment, not to mention their first class dining. So, get away without going far! If you’re in the mood for good, down home food, visit Chancey’s Catfish Shack. This longtime Plant City establishment never disappoints. And after dinner – head out to the newly reopened movie theater for a show.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 4

Edward Jones .................................. 69 Success .............................70-72

Tammy Simpson tsimpson@floydpublications.com Christine Miller cmiller@floydpublications.com Graphic design Anthony Sassano / Phil Ransdell Joe Pellegrino Distribution Belva DeVane Photographer Billy Friend Staff Writers Brian West, Wendy Brown, Holly Mallalieu, Heather Davis, Sherry Baldwin, Cheryl Johnston, Daniel Sperry, Janeel Shulmister, Joe Bowles, Pat Hearn, Ruchelle Owens Contributors Sherry Nueesch, Gil Gott, Al Ruechel, Jo-Ann Lusk, Michael Cameron, Bruce Rodwell, Natalie Sweet

Real Estate Section .............................77-97 Walden Lake Review .................................. 86 Mortgage Article .................................. 92 Real Estate Article .................................. 94 Local History ................................ 108 Al Ruechel ................................ 110 This I Believe ................................ 114 Ask Who What ................................ 116

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.

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

published by:

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

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 5

letterFROMTHEpublisher

Confidence. Discipline. Fitness. Respect.

The building blocks of success.

Some of the most valuable education happens after school.

“You can make more friends in two months by becoming really interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you.� This quote from Dale Carnegie reminds me greatly of Roy Parke, the Plant City icon who recently passed.

Sitting in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church on Monday, I was so very touched by the stories of Roy’s friends and family who shared. It was a completely different experience for me than any other service I have been to. It was not a sombre funeral service; rather, it was a celebration of life.

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Rarely do you meet one individual with the ability and capacity to touch so many lives. Yes, he was a great man who accomplished great feats, but that was not what drew people to him. It was his genuine kindness, and his interest in other people. Kelly Ring of Fox news shared a story of friendship, which Roy had with all media. Joe Newsome, fellow Strawberry Festival board member and long-time friend shared stories of how he was a promoter, for not just the Florida Strawberry Festival but for the city of Plant City and Carl Grooms spoke of his many contributions that he made to the farming industry.

If you never met Roy Parke, chances are, he still touched your life in some fashion. Every year, whether tourist or Plant City native, most people feel they have not truly experienced the Festival without stopping at Parkesdale Farms. I’ve waited in that line myself for some shortcake.

There are many people who may not enjoy sweets, but count on Parkesdale to provide them fresh produce at an affordable cost.

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In this issue of Focus, you will find the story of our annual makeover.

Readers write-in to nominate women they feel deserve a makeover. Take the time to read each of the letters, and you will truly be touched by the ways these women are influencing the world around them. They certainly deserved a day for themselves. Not to mention, many businesses from around this community showed great generosity in the way they pampered these ladies. All the winners were able to feel like queens for the day. Thank you to everyone who helped make this day possible.

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 6

Mike Floyd Publisher

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 The Plant City Noon Rotary and the Plant City Daybreak Rotary conducted their annual joint speech contest recently at the Red Rose Ballroom. Sara Beth Newsome and Trevor Persaud were selected to advance to the District competition. Megan Cochran won second place honors and will serve as an alternate. All three students attend Plant City High School.

Pictured: Mike Arndt, Rotary Club; Megan Cochran, 2nd place winner; Sara Beth Newsome, winner representing Daybreak Rotary; Trevor Persaud, winner representing Noon Rotary; Mike McMinn, Rotary Club Speech Chairman

The First Annual Mueller Memorial Scholarship was presented at the Awards Night Program at Plant City High School. Brett and Trey Mueller, sons of Andy Mueller, presented a $1,500 scholarship to Tanay Tatum. She was chosen based on her excellence in the classroom, sports participation and leadership.

Tatum plans to attend Vassar College in New York. She was president of her senior class and student council and accumulated a 5.56 GPA. She also lettered in both varsity girls basketball and volleyball.

Bret Mueller and Trey Mueller

Andy Mueller died as a result of a car accident in November 2007. He was a partner in the CPA firm of Bella, Hermida, Gillman, Hancock & Mueller.

The Plant City Civitan Club recently announced the winners of the James C. Billings Scholarship. Heather Wilson of Plant City High School and Drew Roberts of Durant High School are the recipients of a $1,000 scholarship to Hillsborough Community College. Making the presentation was Civitan President, Pat Pogue. The students were honored at a breakfast at the Orange Blossom Tea Room along with their parents and Sherrie Mueller, guidance resource specialist.

ITEX Corporation, a leading marketplace for cashless business transactions in North America, formally recognized the efforts of Jim and Carolyn Young, brokers for the ITEX Tampa Trade Exchange in Tampa.

continued on page 8

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 7

local talkofthetown

continued from page 7

TALK OF THE TOWN Jim and Carolyn Young recently returned from Las Vegas, where their company just held its 26th annual convention. They were chosen for the second time in three years as “Broker of the Year,” a top honor for 95 franchises and brokerage offices across North America. They have been brokers with ITEX Trade Exchange for more than six years.

The Lord of Life Lutheran Church held a Senior Picnic on Wednesday, June 25 to support senior citizens in the congregation and community. Senior citizens were given the chance to learn of community programs, hurricane preparedness, home health needs, pharmacy, insurance information and other services. The event was held at noon on the church grounds at 2104 Mud Lake Road.

Wilbur and Sandra Brannan, lifelong residents of Plant City, celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary on June 29.

Their home reception in the Knights Community was given by their their family. The couple celebrated with their children, William and Barbara Brannan, Clifford and Elizabeth Evans, their grandchildren, William Brannan, Jr., Melanie Evans, Annette and David Logue and their greatg r a n d d a u g h t e r, Mackenzie Logue.

The Rev. Lavern Franzen, former Bishop of the Florida-Bahamas Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, was a special guest at the Lord of Life Lutheran Church 2104 Mud Lake Road on Sunday, July 13. She preached at both worship services that day.

The Lord of Life Lutheran Church offered congratulations to three middle school students who completed catechism on June, 1: Brandon Hastings, Matthew Perry and Allison Thomas.

Rep. Rich Glorioso of District 62 recently received news that he will be unopposed on the Republican ticket for the seat he currently holds. With no Republican opposition, his work for Tallahassee and for the state of Florida speaks volumes.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 8

Stacey Heckerman was recently honored with the Anne Frank Humanitarian Award June 5. One student from each school out of Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco, Manatee and Sarasota counties was chosen. The award was presented by the Florida Holocaust Museum.

In addition to the award, Stacey Heckerman and SaraBeth Newsome were chosen by the Plant City Rotary Club to participate in the 2008 World Affairs Youth Seminar at Auburn University from July 13- 18.

Heckerman will be Plant City High School’s Best Buddy President in her senior year this fall. She plans to travel to Indianapolis to attend the required Best Buddies Leadership Conference in Bloomington, Ind. from July 18 – 21.

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 9

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 10

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local AROUNDTOWN

Story by Sherry Baldw i n Photos Cou rt esy of Sherry Si c i gnano

Despite Family Tragedy Area Girl Continues to Persevere “Self-motivated and dedicated” is how Sherry Sicignano describes her 12-year-old daughter Kyndall Hallman. “This is something that I believe she inherited from her Dad, Brian “Casey” Hallman.” Lost in a tragic auto accident in 2002, Casey Hallman would never know just how much alike they are. “Kyndall does have many of his positive traits,” shared Sicignano. This includes perseverance and “putting education first.” For instance, as an honor student at Marshall Middle School, Kyndall was one of only 19 Marshall sixth graders inducted into the National Junior Honor Society. She is also involved in several clubs including Future Farmers of America and the Indian Artifacts Club. According to Kyndall, her favorite subject in school is geography. She enjoys “learning about different cultures and the way that they live.”

Away from school, Kyndall is a member of the Golden City Gymnastics Team in Valrico. Her hard work once again paid off, when she was selected to represent Team Florida Gymnastics at the 2008 Junior Olympic Games in Michigan this summer.

In preparation for the event, she spent at least 20 hours per week in the gym practicing. In addition, Kyndall, along with her family, attends the Without Walls

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 12

A gymnast since the age of 8, Kyndall Hallman prepares for the 2008 Junior Olympic Games in Michigan this summer.

Central Church in Lakeland.

There she is involved in a variety of activities, including membership on the Mime Team. Kyndall also loves swimming, trail riding on her four-wheeler and traveling with her family, which includes, Mom, Sherry, Stepfather Robert Sicignano, Sister Brilynn Casey Hallman and Stepbrothers Nicholas and Michael Sicignano. “With everything the family has been through, we are very proud of Kyndall and what she has been able to accomplish thus far,” added Sherry Sicignano.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 13

local tellyourtale

Sto ry by Ja n e e l S h u l m i st er / Photos by Joh n Den n ert send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Anita Dennert Enjoys her nice, quiet hometown Every morning on her way to work, Anita Boyd Dennert calls her mom to say “hi” and let her know she is thinking of her. It is acts like this that define the caring and compassionate nature of this Plant City native.

The daughter of Huey and Marie McDonald and Angus and Jewell Grace, Dennert attended Knights Elementary, Bryan Elementary, Turkey Creek Junior High and graduated from Plant City Senior High School.

Growing up, she was a member of First Assembly of God in Plant City and was in the church’s Missionette group. Today she attends Willow Oak Assembly of Friends from church introduced Anita and John God in Mulberry and is a Missionette teacher herself. She has worked in the medical field since 1992 and is currently a medical assistant with Clark Daughtrey in Lakeland.

Dennert’s daughter, Anastasia Nichole Boyd, was born in 1998.

Sadly she was diagnosed with brain tumors in 1999 and passed in 2004. Dennert’s faith has helped her cope with her loss, and she has created a web site in her daughter’s honor; www.nichole-boyd. memory-of.com Introduced to husband John by friends from church, Dennert was blessed with another daughter to raise, 11-year-old Megan. The family can always be found together, while having fun and supporting each other. The petite brunette enjoys bike riding, being with family and helping others. “I am a very family-orientated person,” she said.

“I’m always with my family helping my family out.”

With endless energy, a brilliant smile and a persistently sweet nature, Dennert enjoys her life in Plant City. Her “nice, quiet” hometown.

A place she says where “everybody knows everybody.”

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 14

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 15

local AROUNDTOWN

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

Inaugural Hawaiian Luau A Night Out to Benefit the Plant City Community If you are someone who likes to have fun, then you definitely want to look into attending this upcoming event. The Plant City YMCA, already widely known for its extensive outreach to the community through various fundraisers and sponsorships throughout the year, is inviting anyone and everyone (21 and older, that is) to attend the very first Hawaiian Luau. And, it promises to be worth your time and contribution.

The inaugural occasion will be held Saturday evening, July 26, poolside at the YMCA. The cost is $35 per person, and the event will begin at 7p.m., lasting until 11 p.m. Every hour is sure to be packed with plenty of entertainment and activities for all. Delicious food and beverages will be available from several area restaurants and vendors, Quizno’s, Kazbor’s, Grandpa Johnson’s, Pollo Tropical, Chili’s, National One, Premier

Wine, JJ Taylor Companies INC, Pepsi, Red Rose Dining Room and C.C.’s Pizza.

A key fundraiser at the event will be the silent auction with items ranging from tickets to professional and college sporting events, to dinner theater and dining experiences, to even winning vacation stays in mountain or beach getaways. If anyone is interested in donating items to be sold in the luau’s auction, then contact Alicia Jett at Alicia.

Jett@tampaymca.org. Remember, all funds raised go to benefit the YMCA’s Building Strong Kids campaign as well as other charitable organizations in the Plant City area.

Thanks to SweetBay Supermarket, who initially approached the YMCA with this idea. This event is sure to be a success. Don’t forget to dress for the occasion Hawaiian Luau style.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 16

local artistofthemonth

Story and Photos by H eather Davi s send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Becoming One With the Earth

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

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

Local Potter Creates with Clay and Offers Classes

Nothing works better for unleashing the creative force within and creating a connection with the earth than the opportunity to create with clay. This is exactly what Holly Johnson does every day in her studio.

Johnson’s passion for pottery began in college. She quickly became enamored with the pottery class she was taking and admits to repeating the class as many times as possible.

With time, her hobby turned into much more. She recently installed an ideal pottery studio outside of her home. Her studio is fully equipped with four high quality wheels, two electric kilns, an extruder and a slab roller. Holly has aptly named her studio the MudHut. Encouraged by friends, she has begun to use her studio not only for personal use, but she is now offering Beginning Wheel Pottery Classes. Holly’s classes are tailored for the beginner and run consecutively for five weeks on Tuesday or Thursday evenings from 6p.m.–9p.m. All materials such as clay and glazes are provided along with refreshments.

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 17

local AROUNDTOWN

Story by Lynne Warren Photos by Lynn e Warren and courtesy of P l a n t C it y F i r e

Plant City Fire Rescue Training to Ensure First Rate Emergency Response When Plant City Fire & Rescue responds to an emergency, residents can be sure they are fully prepared. The team puts in hours of, on a regular basis. But, how do they realistically train without an actual emergency? That is where Brewington’s Towing and Recovery comes in. When PCFR needs to get in some training time, or test new tools, they call owner, David Brewington.

Automobiles towed by Brewington’s that are not claimed by their owners within the required period of time are sold to salvage yards. Prior to being hauled away, these cars are sometimes put to good use. PCFR uses them to simulate an auto accident or other emergency where a rescue might be necessary. PCFR likes to hold training sessions approximately every two months or so.

Earlier this month, I was able to observe a joint training effort between the Plant City squad and two Hillsborough County Fire Rescue units. According to Plant City Engine Company Combat Captain, Nat Hargrove, staffing issues sometimes mean the Plant City squad doesn’t have the manpower required in certain situations.

When PCFR needs backup on a call, one or both of these Hillsborough County teams responds. By the same token, if one of the two Hillsborough County squads calls for assistance, then PCFR provides backup. By training together, the groups are able to work effectively as one large team in a real emergency. On this day, the group was also testing out some new tools – one of which is known by most of us as the ‘Jaws of Life’.

Firefighters removing the roof after testing out new tools used to cut through the support structures.

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 18

local AROUNDTOWN

Story by Sherry Baldw i n Photos by Sherry Baldw i n and M ars hal l F ox wort h y

Improved Health and Peace of Mind Journey Leads Man to Pursue Life’s Dreams Growing up as the son of a dedicated physician, Marshall Foxworthy of Plant City always respected the way his father cared for others. As he began to move into adulthood, he realized how much he also enjoyed helping those around him. Unfortunately, he began to suffer from a variety of ailments that would lead him to become “too unreliable.”

Most importantly, his failing health was keeping him from being the person he was meant to be.

Then one day he landed on the steps of a doctor who helped him accept that his health problems and escalating weight were directly related. According to this doctor, Foxworthy had become

what is referred to as morbidly obese. Without swift intervention, his health would continue to decline. He would never restore the pipe organ he saved from an old barn. He would never walk his daughter Katelyn down the aisle on her wedding day or grow old with his wife Sandy.

Marshall Foxworthy, of Plant City, is well on his way to his ultimate weight-loss goal.

Coming to terms with these hard realizations, Foxworthy fully committed to a weight-loss program through this doctor’s office. With a great deal of support, he is on his way to his ultimate goal. Improved health and greater peace of mind have allowed him to look ahead. With his dreams and goals no longer out of reach, he has chosen to share his own personal journey by becoming a Certified Health Advisor. And yes, he is finally becoming the person he was truly meant to be.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 19

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Story by Lynne Wa r r e n Photo court esy South Flo ri da Bapti st Hos p ita l

Dr. John Saranko 2008 Florida Family Physician of the Year Each year, the Florida Academy of Family Physicians honors a physician who goes above and beyond the call of duty in serving patients.

This year, the organization has chosen our own Dr. John Saranko.

Association, Healthcare Communication and Marketing Association Delegate to the Florida Medical Association. He also served as president of the medical staff at South Florida Baptist Hospital, and on its Board of Directors.

Saranko, who has deep roots in our area, was born and raised in Lithia, and went to school in Pinecrest. After graduating, he served in the Marine Corps for four years. He attended Clemson University and then the Medical University of South Carolina, where he received his medical degree in 1977. Saranko then returned to Plant City to begin his practice.

“Dr. Saranko is simply a force of nature, as well as grace under fire. He is a remarkable man whose love of family and patients leaves a legacy for future family physicians to follow.

He is truly second to none,� says Tad Fisher, executive vice president of the FAFP.

Dr. Saranko is fully dedicated to family medicine and the improvement of the health of his patients, as well as all Floridians. His

many volunteer positions include: service on the Board of Trustees for St. Joseph’s – Baptist Health Care, the Hillsborough County Medical

The FAFP considers Dr. Saranko a committed role model and takes great pride in honoring him as 2008 Florida Family Physician of the Year.

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 20

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 21

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Articl e and photo by Cheryl Jo hnsto n send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

SFBH Hosts Adult Programs Health and Wellness Support At South Florida Baptist Hospital, your health and wellness is priority number one. Programs designed to inform and educate fill the calendar.

Check out a few on the current schedule.

Ongoing monthly support groups meet as follows: Alzheimer’s – second Tuesday at First Baptist Church; Call 754-3761 for details.

The Lecture Series topic August 14 is Arthritis, Joints and the Aging Body: Knee and Hip Joint Surgery. The free class meets in the Community Conference Room, but seating is limited, so call to register. Dr. Scott Goldsmith will discuss symptoms, screening guidelines, treatment and surgical options.

Diabetes – first Tuesday, 5-6 p.m. at SFBH; Call 757-8202 to register.

Bereaved Parents – forth Thursday, 7 p.m. at SFBH Community Room; 7578373 The American Cancer Society hosts the “Look Good, Feel Better� support workshop every other month from 6–8 p.m. on Tuesday. Women learn practical tips for skin care, makeup techniques and

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coping with hair loss during treatment. Call the ACS at 1-800-227-9954 or SFBH at 757-8511 for dates.

The popular Ladies Night Out seminars offered five times annually at SFBH provide a light dinner followed by one or two speakers.

Hospital tours are 30 minutes before each seminar. The topic for Aug. 21 is Gynecology 101 – Good Health is Every Woman’s Right. On Oct. 16 the subject will be Tired and Achy – You Could Have Thyroid or Osteoporosis Issues. Call (813)757-8511 to register.

SFBH also provides heart health screenings with free blood pressure checks on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. and $20 Cholesterol Screenings the 4th Tuesday each month from 2–3p.m. in the hospital lobby. No appointments are necessary.

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 22

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Story and photos by Caro lyn M i ller send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Positive, Economic Signs Interview With Dr. Donald Sarbacker Everyone is talking about rising gas prices, increasing foreclosure rates and the state of our country’s economic status. In this election year, it is on the lips of both candidates. Everywhere we see signs of a slump. Gas prices teetering at $4.00 or more, oil prices at $137.00 a barrel. Real estate and home sales are low. The unemployment rate is high. Gloom and doom on the radio, television and in the papers. But is there light at the end of tunnel? Is the U.S. doing better that we think? Are we on stable ground?

Dr. Donald L. Sarbacker, professor of economics at Hillsborough Community College, says yes. His down to earth approach to teaching economics not only enlightens his students but gives us all hope that we are not about to collapse into a great abyss.

To understand what is happening locally, we must first understand what is happening globally. The U.S. is $762 billion in debt—a hot topic in Washington. No one likes to hear that figure. But what about our assets?

When looking at personal finances; if one owes $60,000 in mortgages, car loans and credit cards, but has over $100,000 in assetsproperty, stocks, bonds and savings–the $60,000 figure doesn’t sound so bad. Both assets and debts must be considered to get the full picture. The U.S. has acquired over $100 trillion in assets by investing in other countries. According to Dr. Sarbacker, that 762 billion dollars is “tip money.” America is the strongest economy in the world. Our strongest financial institutions–Citi Corp, CHASE and Bank of America–have invested heavily in hundreds of foreign banks, lending financial infrastructure to strengthen their economies and solidifying our place as a growing and healthy, vital force in the world.

1.50€, .75£, 85¥, and $1.25 Canadian. Now, our dollar is tipping the other way. What impact does that have on our U.S. economy? Dr. Sarbacker is quick to point out that as our dollar shrinks, our exports become less expensive to foreign trade, which in turn creates job opportunities in the U.S. When our dollar was stronger our products were more expensive and less appealing to foreign countries. Now, the pendulum has swung the other way and our exports have become more lucrative, strengthening our economy even more. The dollar has been purposefully driven down by the government for this sole purpose, says Dr. Sarbacker, to keep us viable in the everchanging environment of international trade.

Oil price is a huge economic driver internationally. According to Sarbacker, we have already begun drilling in South West Africa, discovering one of the largest fields in the world. There are large oil fields currently

What about the deflating dollar? Currency is cyclic. Five years ago our dollar bought, FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 24

being tapped here in the United States; Montana, Utah, Alaska, and even Dallas/Ft. Worth have the promise of continued supply for years to come. That is all without the drilling off the coast of Florida that has become such a hot topic lately.

Although locally we see signs of recession, we can look forward to years of prosperity in the future because of the efforts of our government. The U.S. has invested wisely in foreign countries and bonded unlikely allies through commerce so as to solidify our presence in the world-wide arena. Sarbacker goes on to explain that though it may look as if America is struggling, we make an impact on the world by reducing our dependency on foreign oil by conserving gas on a personal level and as a nation. If the world goes into a recession, then our dollar becomes stronger and the cycle of prosperity begins again.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 25

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Story by Brian W est send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Beyond the Berry Season Growers are farming more than just strawberries Living in Plant City brings a required appreciation and understanding of strawberries. After all, Plant City is the winter strawberry capital of the world and home of the world famous Florida Strawberry Festival. Area growers spend countless hours preparing their land, planting and then nurturing the growth of the delicious fruit we’ve all come to love.

The berries become available in early fall, and that’s when we get to enjoy this fruit that has become so popular to so many. But have you ever wondered what a strawberry farmer does when they’re not growing strawberries?

in November, sometime around Thanksgiving, they’re beginning to pick berries. Picking continues through March when the plants stop producing berries.

But what does a strawberry grower do when there aren’t any more berries to be picked?

Some simply take the time off as vacation while waiting for the next strawberry season.

But many of them grow other crops to buffer the lag between strawberry seasons. As the strawberry season ends, the Sewell’s double crop eggplant, squash and bell peppers. Double cropping is planting two items on the same row to take advantage of the plastic barrier that Marshal always giving a helping hand has already been established.

Other farmers plant cantaloupe and cucumbers. You might also wonder: What about the migrant workers who pick the berries? What are they doing during the off season? Marie said, “A few of them stay here working restaurant jobs, but most of them travel north to pick other crops. Most of our workers are families, and they want to work until their children are finished with the school year. So, our spring crop Marc & Marshal learning every aspect of farming ends about the same time as school.” That’s one reason the Sewell’s choose to plant other crops after strawberries.

The Sewell family has been farming for 5 generations. Marie married into the Sewell family in 1981, and after the death of her husband, Marty, last year; she and her two sons, Marc and Marshal have continued to carry that family tradition with the help of her father-in-law, Buddy. Marie said, “He’s 73-years-old, and he’s out there with us everyday. The Sewells manage two separate fields - one 55 acres and the other 22 acres.

Their strawberry season begins in August when they start preparing the ground for planting. This includes tilling the sorghum–the cover crop planted in the summer.

Marc said, “The purpose of the cover crop (sorghum) is to help replenish the nutrients in the ground that were removed during the previous strawberry season. It’s like a natural fertilizer.” By the end of September, the Sewell’s are bedding the ground and laying the plastic. In October, Marshal (left) and Marc (right) with Grandfather Buddy they’re planting, and usually and the late Marty Sewell FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 26

When the school year is over, the majority of their workers will travel off to North Carolina and then go on to Pennsylvania and Michigan.

They have arrangements to work on other farms picking blueberries and apples. They’ll return in about September and October just in time for strawberries. The Sewell’s have about 65 workers with them during the season. About four of them will stay working the Sewell farm throughout the year–even during the off season –helping with general maintenance. The rest are either taking the time off or are working with the other farms up north.

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Story by Jerry Lofstrom / P hoto by Ro n n i e C a r l ou g h send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Driving While Talking The Dangers of Cell Phones in Driver’s Hands Would you ever drive drunk? C’mon folks – this should be a no-brainer by now. Drinking and driving is dangerous – and stupid.

If you’re like most of us, then you would never drink and drive; too dangerous, too many consequences, and too morally wrong.

How about the danger of talking on a cell phone or text messaging while driving?

Most of us believe we are responsible drivers, laden by work, without enough hours in the day to get everything done; often we answer the phone or make a call or text a message from behind the wheel.

You might think it’s no big deal to use your cell phone while driving; everybody does it.

After all, it must be more dangerous to drink and drive than to drive and talk.

Right?

The news is sobering. A study by the University of Utah found talking on a cell phone while driving causes the same impairments as driving drunk. In the study, forty people followed a pace car along a prescribed course, using a driving simulator.

Some people drove while talking on a cell phone, some drove without any impediments, others drove with their blood-alcohol level at 0.08 percent, which is legally drunk. The study found maneuvering through traffic while talking on the phone increases the likelihood of an accident five-fold and is actually more dangerous than driving drunk.

If a teenager were caught driving drunk, then most parents would snatch the car keys and take away the kid’s driving privileges indefinitely. If, however, the teen were caught driving while talking on a cell phone or text messaging, then parents would most likely do nothing.

If there’s one thing we seem to love more than cars, it’s our cell phones.

But when these twin tools of modern convenience are brought together in the form of drivers talking on phones, or text messaging, a lot can go wrong.

Just ask Samantha Pipin’s car the result of text messaging while driving Samantha Pipin; the 20-year-old Plant City resident was driving appropriate, has been widely debated. on Holloway Rd. on May 25 when her 2003 Nissan Ultima veered off the road and Police Chief Bill McDaniel believes there slammed into a telephone pole. Rushed to should be a Florida State law enacted that the hospital, Samantha underwent nine hours either restricts or bans motorist from using cell of neuro-surgery. She suffers from a broken phones while driving. “Cell phone use has neck, a lumbar spine fracture, a vertical reached such epidemic proportions that the fracture to her right hip and two titanium rods use of a cell phone while driving has become are attached to her neck. a dangerous distraction while driving and something needs to be done about it.”

The overriding cause of the crash? – Text messaging while driving.

Have you ever found yourself behind a car in which the driver appeared more occupied with There are many people like Samantha Pipin the person on the other end of a cell phone who think they’re better at multitasking than call than driving safely? According to Chief they really are, and that’s because most of McDaniel, those drivers are dangerous, not the time, errors have no consequences. But only to themselves, but to others. when you’re driving, even half a second of distraction could, at the right circumstances, What we all take for granted as a technological have disastrous consequences. advancement to make our lives easier also puts us at risk behind the wheel. The notion of “can Many states have recognized that cell phones you hear me now” might be a clear signal of an can be a distraction and have passed laws accident ready to happen. banning the use of cell phones while driving.

Whether such laws are effective, or even

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 28

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 29

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Story and Photos by Ashley G rant send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

PC Community Development Corp.

Helping People Own Homes “There are large segments of the population that don’t have affordable housing available to them,” this from Ernest Barfield, director of the Plant City Community Development Corporation (CDC).

The mission of the Plant City Community Development Corporation (CDC) is to help residents find affordable housing. Their programs are targeted toward those with low incomes, with the desire to own their first home.

Plant City CDC is a non-profit homebuilder that helps first-time homebuyers. The problem for the Plant City CDC has been getting connected with people that qualify for its program.

The CDC helps low-income families qualify for mortgages they might not otherwise be able to obtain. Down payment assistance is available for lower-income families that qualify through the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners.

The CDC has a “Self-Help Program” that allows people to contribute to their loans by working on the construction of their new home.

People in this program must be willing to work a minimum of 300 hours (per adult) on their

home. They must qualify as a first-time home buyer or have not owned property for at least three years. There is a $1,000 down payment, and the applicants are required to have an employment history of at least two years. All applicants must have good or repairable credit and good landlord history, too. They will also have to complete a Home Buyer Education class.

Don’t hesitate to apply for the program.

According to the CDC, even if your credit or employment histories aren’t great, they will do what they can to help you overcome your obstacles.

The geographic area covered by the CDC is a 15-mile radius around Plant City. The CDC acts as the construction manager, supporting the owners and the builders who qualify to build. The construction crews help soon-to-be homeowners learn the skills required to assist in the construction of their new home. They’re walked through every step of the process.

Friends, families, church members and coworkers of the homeowners are welcome and encouraged to help throughout the construction process.

Plant City CDC can help families afford.

The CDC process is well planned, designed and implemented–then evaluated by residents. The CDC is constantly auditing their own process to ensure top quality and efficiency. They began building homes on Laura Street with plans to expand soon.

If you truly desire a home of your own, then the CDC is looking for you. They are seeking applicants for their program now so they can continue to grow. For a one person household, the minimum income requirement is $19,800 with a maximum annual income of $47,520.

Income requirements are determined based on the number of adults in the household.

In order to continue their programs, the CDC must show they are being utilized. They have funds available and are in need of families willing to invest a little work and time in return for the American Dream of owning their own home. CDC has a contract with Hillsborough County and must utilize the funds they have been allotted, or risk losing funding for the future. In other words, if residents are not using the programs, they could be done away with.

This program is important for Plant City–it encourages a sense of pride among our residents and improves our community as a whole.

Diane Martin-Johnson, Ernest Barefield and Blanca Rodriguez

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 30

If you would like more information on the Plant City CDC, call (813) 659.3100. The CDC is located at 713 E. Alsobrook St. Their website will be up and running soon: www.plantcitycdc.org.

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Sto ry a n d P hoto by K ryst el Kn ow l es send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Youth Karate Team goes to Nationals

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All the eleven members who qualified to compete in nationals and their teacher Chris Welbon.

During the first week of July, 10 Plant City Karate students will travel to New York to compete in the Karate Nationals. The Amateur Athletic Union, which is a non-profit sports organization, sponsors the annual competition. There are many different categories based on age, gender and skill level. There are also three types or divisions within the competition: Kata, Kumite and Kubudo. A competitor can compete in any or all divisions. The nationals last a full week, and there are a large number of competitors from across the nation.

Ennarie Gaudet, 7, is the youngest competitor on the team. She has been competing for three years and won several district and regional competitions. She says she really enjoys being part of the team and is especially excited to travel to New York and compete in the nationals.

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Gaudet is planning to continue studying Karate until she becomes a black belt like her teacher Chris Welbon. Michael Wilson, 15, is the oldest of the team to be attending the nationals. He has been studying Karate for three years and will soon start studying Kubudo. He has competed six times and won 10 different medals. “My mom’s friend introduced us to Karate, ever since then we have been taking classes,� Wilson said.

Wilson said he will continue studying until he is a few years older, then he will become a Karate teacher or maybe a police officer. He wants to find a profession where he can continue using the skills he had gained through Karate.

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Story by Cheryl Jo hnsto n Photos courte sy of the autho rs

Published Authors in Plant City

A Local Sampling

Writers are wordweavers who “cannot not write.” Their minds cull ideas, stories, characters, facts and details. They dream their published work will impact readers. Writers continually hone their craft, refine their gift and relate their message. The Plant City area is home to more than a few with published books. Read on for a local sampling.

Clifford Halford, retired Baptist minister and Korean War veteran, lives with wife Pat near their church, Westside Baptist.

In a seminary English class, his first 2,000 word descriptive essay detailing a European mountain view earned an A grade and the professor’s compliment, “That’s close to professional writing.” Since 1996, Umatilla’s The Outpost weekly newspaper has published his “Looking Back” central Florida history lessons. Numerous anthologies contain his stories and poems.

Halford has authored two books, The Scrubcracker Chronicles and The Bed Too Short.

Lisa Herrin is an inspirational writer, speaker and teacher whose book, Life Interrupted (AMG Publishers), was a staff pick at the 2007 Writing for the Soul Conference. She and husband Reverend Robert Herrin (Plant City Church of God) present workshops in their Heart 2 Heart ministry.

Through her experiences as a young widow and as a former hospital chaplain, Lisa encourages readers who have suffered loss, serious illness or difficult situations, reminding that God accomplishes purpose through those. Contact her at www.lisaherrin.com.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 34

Ernest E. Holbrook is a Plant CityLakeland area farm boy who began evangelistic preaching at 18 in 1947.

He founded Faith Temple Assembly of God in Plant City and pastored there 27 years. Known locally as “The Radio Minister,” his “Temple Vespers” program spanned two decades on local stations WPLA, WCIE and WTWB. He serves on the board of “Radio Training Network,” a non-profit organization headquartered in Lakeland that operates numerous Christian stations and provides translations. His three books include I’m Glad I Lived (2005Authorhouse), The Country Parson (2006- Morris Publishing) and One Earth – Four Worlds (2007- Morris Publishing).

Elise Leonard is a retired school teacher whose academic success stories in inner-city classrooms directed her determination to improve literacy, especially in young, emergent and reluctant readers. Her publishing company, NoxPress, supplies the two book series she’s authored, Junkyard Dan and Al’s World. The first and second books of the Al’s World series have been selected as ALA Quick Picks for reluctant young adult readers.

Leonard’s books are purchased nationally by school systems and correctional institutions to increase reading skills.

She speaks at literacy conferences.

Visit www. noxpress.com and www. eliseleaonard. com for details.

local aroundtown

continued from page 34

Annette Wilcox and her husband Paul live in Seffner, where they spend time with sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren. A licensed cosmetologist and massage therapist, she specializes in medical massage. Annette wrote Power to Jump Start Your Life (Tate Publishing 2007) and Mom…It’s My Birthday (2008), to encourage readers and glorify God. Kevin Wynne and his wife Wendy pastor the First Baptist Church of Durant. Years in the corporate arena taught that marketing is key to success.

His book, TAGS, encourages people to promote Jesus outside the church.

TAGS, an acronym for “Talk About God’s Son,” illustrates through fictional characters the simplicity of sharing Christ in any environment. Church members are now radically motivated to plant the seeds of God’s love daily.

After his first book, Now Introducing You (1997), he determined not to write for personal achievement. His writing goal today is that someone’s life is changed. A pass-around quick read is a tool. Reach Wynne at www.durantbaptist.com.

Writers love to help others develop their craft. To begin, simply start writing. Local writers’ groups are great sources of information and encouragement. Visit Christian Writers’ Guild (www. christianwritersguild.com), Florida Christian Writers (www. flwriters.org), Brandon Christian Writers (4th Thursday monthly in library at Center Place on Parsons; e-mail writer@ruthellinger. com) or American Christian Writers (www.ACwriters.com). Attend writers’ conferences. Study books such as annual editions of Writer’s Market and Sally Stuart’s Christian Writers’ Market Guide to learn craft and submission tips. Enroll in a writing class. Share your work with family and friends, and read, read, read. Writers are readers first and foremost.

The key is just to start where you are. Use your gift and improve as you go. Words entertain, communicate, inform and transform. Don’t hesitate to put yours to good use.

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My name is Paula’s Peaches & Cream. I am an apricot toy poodle.

I am 2 years old. I’m a diabetic alert service dog. That means I’m a working dog.

I have been a patient at Animal Wellness Center of Plant City since 8-29-06. My vet Dr. Jennifer Conner gives me special attention when I come in for check-ups.

She really knows and loves animals. Dr. Conner referred me to an obedience school where I learned manners and communication skills because I am a working dog.

I am working even when I sleep with my mistress. She’s a diabetic.

I bark and wake her up if her glucose drops too low. I can also tell if her sugar is high by smelling her breath. I go everywhere with Paula.

We have visited in nursing homes, Masonic Park and Shriners’ Children’s Hospitals because I’m friendly and loveable.

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A rt i c l e a n d p hoto by C h e ryl Joh n ston send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Bruton Memorial Library Read, Grow and Connect The Bruton Memorial Library is a happening place where children, teens and adults can participate in programs for every age and life stage. Opportunities to expand interests, explore unknowns and educate minds await you in the finest facility in the Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative. Check out these programs scheduled for upcoming months.

The Bruton Memorial Library is a town hub of activity all the time.

PET OF THE MONTH

Library Director Anne Haywood facilitates monthly book discussions. Book copies are available for checkout at the circulation desk. Readers meet at 11 a.m. to share insights. On Aug. 5 they will discuss Henry James’ novel, Portrait of a Lady. On Tuesday, Sept. 2, Phyllis McEwen will portray Zora Neale Hurston, author of Their Eyes Were Watching God.

Animal Wellness Center

The new Plant City Poets’ Club welcomes adults and teens to share poetry. They meet from 6:30–7:30 p.m. on the second Wednesday of every month. They meet next on August 11, 2008.

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OF PLANT CITY

Vicarious travel and cultural experiences also are highlights. On Thursday, July 17 from 6–8 p.m., folks (ages 12 to adult) will enjoy Paul Stonebridge as he discusses Japanese contemporary culture and food. Japanese refreshments will be served. Required tickets are available at the library after July 10.

Hours: Mon - Fri: 7:30am - 5:30pm

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3109 SR 574 West (813) 752-2869

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 36

Teen programs include computer instruction for Anime, Manga, Gaming and Movie Maker. No wonder teenagers now represent the largest percentage of library users nationwide. Powerpoint for Teens is offered July 22 from 4-5pm, with sign up one hour prior. Computer classes are also available for adults.

The library staff creates cozy reading areas throughout the building.

Additionally, the popular Master Gardener monthly program presented by the county’s Extension Service resumes in September.

Phone for (813)757-9215 or visit www.plantcitygov.com/library for upcoming event details and library hours.

local AROUNDTOWN

Story by Cou rt ney A llen / P hotos by fam i ly of Josh C r e a m e r send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

One Smooth Takeoff A high achieving high school student’s not-so-ordinary license When Josh Creamer took his first solo flight, it was like his initiation to freedom. His parents and grandparents came unannounced to his routine flight lesson that day and waited anxiously for his childhood dream to take flight. “I didn’t know I was going to solo that day,� said Creamer. “It was then that I knew it was real- it was all me and nobody there to correct me.�

Creamer, 18, will be a senior at Plant City High School and has already accomplished goals that many students strive for: he has maintained a 4.7 GPA, taught himself how to play several instruments and established himself as an awardwinning athlete. Last summer, he began training for his private pilot’s license and within six months, passed his written and flight exam.

Like many of his family members, Creamer plans to enlist in the Air Force. “I want to stay in for the twenty years, then retire,� said Creamer. “I would like to get a helicopter license and fly for a news station like Fox 13 or even fly for Tampa General.�

Creamer has devoted his summer to conditioning for the next wrestling season, playing drums for his church’s youth group band and helping at his uncle’s company. Spending time with his family is always a priority. He fishes with his dad and goes to movies with his cousin on the weekends.

He is currently working towards getting an ROTC Scholarship and hopes to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University after he graduates.

Josh Creamer at the controls

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CAESAR SALAD Crisp Romaine lettuce, fresh parmesan cheese, garlic herb croutons and grape tomatoes tossed in our Caesar dressing. Reg. $4.99 Lg. $6.99

CHICKEN PARMESAN Tender breaded chicken breast, sliced and topped with marinara sauce, parmesan cheese & baked mozzarella. Served on our freshly baked Italian bread. $7.29

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CHICKEN BACON RANCH Chicken breast, crumbled applewood smoked bacon and our bacon ranch dressing covered in baked mozzarella with shredded lettuce. Served on our freshly baked bread. $7.29

ROLLED LASAGNA with BAKED MOZZARELLA Rolled lasagna pasta stuffed with ricotta cheese and topped with marinara, baked mozzarella & parmesan cheeses. $9.99

CRANBERRY ALMOND SALAD Crisp lettuce blend with sweet dried cranberries, mandarin oranges, sliced toasted almonds and shredded mozzarella tossed in our special orange mandarin vinaigrette dressing. Reg. $5.29 Lg. $7.99 MANDARIN CHICKEN SALAD Grilled chicken breast served over a bed of chilled Romaine lettuce, mandarin oranges, crispy rice noodles, julienne carrots and toasted almonds tossed in a special Asian dressing. Reg. $5.99 Lg. $8.79 COUNTRY BARBEQUE SALAD Chopped BBQ chicken breast served warm over a bed of crispy lettuce greens, julienne carrots, shredded mozzarella, crumbled smoked bacon, croutons and fried onion strings tossed in our ranch dressing.

Reg. $5.99 Lg. $8.79 BLUE BUFFALO SALAD Chopped chicken breast sautèed in our wing sauce served warm over a crispy lettuce blend with croutons, julienne carrots, shredded mozzarella, candied nuts and honey roasted sesame sticks tossed in our blue cheese or ranch dressing. Reg. $5.99 Lg. $8.79 ISLAND SALAD Grilled chicken breast served over a bed of crispy lettuce greens, julienne carrots, pineapple, red onion, sweet dried cranberries, candied nuts, and honey roasted sesame sticks tossed in our special poppy seed dressing.

Reg. $5.99 Lg. $8.79

CALZONES

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EGGPLANT PARMESAN Breaded eggplant with layers of marinara, parmesan & mozzarella cheese. Baked to a golden brown and served with a side of spaghetti marinara. $9.79 CHICKEN PARMESAN Breaded chicken breast served over fettuccini pasta and topped with marinara sauce & baked mozzarella. $10.99 RAVIOLI FLORENTINE Jumbo over-stuffed raviolis filled with spinach, grilled onions blue cheese, ricotta and mozzarella cheeses. Topped with our hearty marinara sauce. $9.99

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3011 James Redman Pkwy (Next to Chili’s) www.oldetownpizzeria.com FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 39

local AROUNDTOWN

submit ted by b ruc e ro dw ell / P hotos su b m it t e d by P l a n t c it y c h a m b e r of comme rc e

Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce

Okinawan Martial Arts & Sciences Michael McGee, President & Sensei/and wife Cynthia 104 West Reynolds Street, Suite 2 (813) 661-2109 www.martialartsmeetup.com

It’s time to sign up again for the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program . The goal of this great tuition-based program is to prepare current and future leaders of the Greater Plant City Community for decisions that must be made as our city grows and develops. For class members to better understand the elements that comprise our community, Leadership sessions take place at various locations throughout our community. The program is under the direction of the Chamber Board of Directors and is managed by Leadership Alumni and coordinated by the Chamber President and staff. If you are interested or are an employer that would like to have key employees participate in this program, then call the Chamber office at 813-754-3707 for an application. Applications must be submitted no later than September 5, 2008.

On July 19 the Greater Plant City Chamber will hold the monthly Strawberry Classic Car Show in downtown Plant City. This great family event is free and starts at 4p.m. and goes on till 9p.m. Come on out and check the fancy automobiles. Great fun and great food.

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The Chamber’s Business After Hours will be held on Thursday, July 17 th. at the Plant City Photo Archives, 119 North Collins Street. This event starts at 5:15 and continues till 7p.m..

On July 26 the Plant City Family will present it’s inaugural Hawaiian Luau poolside at the YMCA campus, 1507 YMCA Place Plant City. This event is open to adults 21 and older. The cost is $35 per person with all proceeds benefiting the Plant City YMCA. Featured will be delicious food by area restaurants, great tropical drinks, live entertainment and a live and silent auction with entertainment packages, dinner theatre and dining experiences, shopping & gift cards, sports memorabilia and several other items. Make plans to attend. It is a great way to support the YMCA’s Building Strong Kids Campaign. Call the “Y” at 813-757-6677 for additional information.

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Plant City Entertainment, Inc. is presenting the summer musical ‘Brigadoon’ on July 18, 19, 25 and 26 with each performance starting at 8p.m. at the Cornerstone Center, 315 North Collins St. A Sunday matinee will be staged July 20 at 2p.m. The play centers around a small enchanted village in Scotland that comes to life only once every one hundred years. A record breaking 66 people auditioned for parts in the show, which is intense with beautiful songs and dancing. The cast is made up of 58 members, an ensemble orchestra, pipe organ and bagpipes.

Ticket prices are $10 general admission and $8 for seniors 55 and older and students through the 12th Grade. Tickets will be available at the door prior to each performance. Advance tickets and group rates are available at Hardee’s Fashions, 1501 N. Wheeler St. For more information call 813-986-7141 or 813-752-0728.

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The City of Plant City Recreation & Parks Department is hosting TEEN NIGHTS at the Planteen, 301 Dort St in Plant City. Dates are July 25, Aug. 8 and 22 and Sept. 12 and 26. The Teen Nights are being sponsored by the Lancers Soccer Club. Starting time each night is 7p.m. and last till 11p.m..

Admission price is $7.

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Saturday, Aug 2 the Chamber will play host to another Bike Fest in downtown Plant City. Come on out and check out all the great motorcycles. This is a free event and offers a good family fun time. Starts at 5p.m. and goes on till 9p.m.

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Also on Aug. 2 Back to School Immunization & Physicals are being offered at the Walden Lake Medical Arts Building, Corner of Alexander Street and Timberlane Drive. Hours are 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and appointments are required.

Call 813-754-4444 to register your child.

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 40

p lant city cham ber continued

The Chamber’s Annual Salute to Agriculture Contact Breakfast will take place Wednesday, Aug. 13 at the Red Rose Inn & Suites. The breakfast starts at 7:30. Please call the Chamber office at 813-754-3707 to RSVP. As the school year approaches, the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce will help sponsor and play host to those teachers and principals that are new to our Plant City area 6 schools. This event, which will take place Aug. 14 helps acquaint the new teachers with our community and, at the same time, provides an opportunity for local businesses to be involved in the education of our children. Other sponsors of this event are Americare Ambulance Service, Bright House Networks, the Florida Strawberry Festival, South Florida Baptist Hospital and Suncoast Schools Federal Credit Union.

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On Thursday, Aug. 28 the BOYS & GIRLS CLUB are holding their Third Annual BBQ Fundraiser. Plan to kick off your Labor Day BBQ style - whether it is for lunch, dinner or both. Meals will be available from 11:30 to 1:30 and 4 to 6:30 at the Train Depot located in the heart of Historic Downtown Plant City. Tickets are $10 each. For the benefit of employers that want to show their employees they are appreciated this Labor Day, lunch orders of 20 or more will be delivered to you. The Boys & Girls Club provides many services to our community such as an alternative to gangs, provide education and intervention strategies to their young members to better prepare them to resist gang involvement as well as partner with law enforcement. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Jodi Smith at 813-754-8574, or you can e-mail her at jodi.smith@baycare.org. The proceeds of the BBQ directly fund the Plant City Boys & Girls Club where they have “One Club - 2 sites”.

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Congratulations to Plant City’s Rich Glorioso, our District 62 Representative who serves in the Florida Legislature. He recently received word that he will be unopposed on the Republican ticket in November. This speaks volumes for the job he has done in Tallahassee.

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 41

The Planteen Center

Story by Janeel Shulmister/Photos by Janeel Shulmister & Courtesy of The Plant City Photo Archives

S

houts of excitement, music, and laughter from Zumba, the hand clapping, hip swaying, arm moving, Patty Sanchez’s Wednesday nigh t Zumba class rhythmic Latin dance exercise program, is just one of the many activities offered at the Planteen could be heard from Dort Street.

Recreation Center.

There was no Loc ated at 301 Dort Street, the Planteen mistaking where the fun was, righ has been a part of t inside the Planteen the Plant City Community since the 1940’s.

Recreation Center. Sanchez’s stud ents came in all fitness levels, ages, shapes, and sizes; people from The original Planteen opened the night of November 3, 1944, in the two- story William Schneid diverse backgrounds and cultures . Some wore shorts, er Building on Mah oney Street. According to Buddy Blai some wore pants…everyone wore n, Plant City a smile. native, the building was once used as a welding school. With FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 42

The Planteen Center the support of the Plant City High School faculty and the hard work of the students, the high school Key Club directed and supervised the development of the center.

The name Planteen stands for “Plant City Teen,” explained Blain. It was created for teens by teens as a gathering spot during a turbulent time in American history. “During World War II we didn’t have any place to go,” said Panky Morgan Snow, Plant City lifetime resident. “It was just a nice place to be, a nice place to go,” Snow remembered. “I still feel that way.”

While war raged and eighteen year-old classmates were drafted into service, the teenagers of Plant City danced to the music of the Plant City High School Swing Band, a group formed by talented musicians in their spare time. The band often played for dances and parties held at the Planteen. “They were very good,” Blain recalled. At the threshold of adulthood and transitioning into an uncertain future, the teens of 1944 danced their last steps of youthful freedom in the two-story building on Mahoney Street.

Although the Planteen of the past was geared towards teens, the Planteen of today has something for people of all ages. Now located on Dort Street, the .558 acres, multi-purpose, city run facility was built in 1957 and has been the site of recreational activities for generations.

Currently, the Planteen is in summer mode, explained Deborah Haldane, Program Manager.

With over 150 children enrolled in the nine-week program, staff members are providing campers with a summer to remember.

“We’re going on four field trips this summer and we do special events during the summer,” said Planteen Center Manager, Chris Washburn. From magic shows to clowns, Washburn and her staff treat campers to fun every day of the week. Eight year-old Brandi Neely agrees; “It’s great!”

Washburn is proud of the staff that works at the center. Ranging in age from 16-38, many of them have been there for years. “I can’t say enough about our coaches that work here,” she enthused. “They’re phenomenal!” She’s also

(l-r) Alma Delia Torres, Silvia Mejia and Isaias Mejia enjoy Delia’s Aerobic Turbo Blast Class.

just as proud of the many volunteers who work up to eight hours a day at the center. “They’re just like staff. They’re amazing!”

The staff is also very creative in their curriculum planning. Last year, staff member Alex Cardenas started a fundraiser with his campers selling candy.

It was so successful that by the end of the summer, there was enough money to buy every camper a backpack and plenty of school supplies to fill it. Because of Cardenas’ idea, the entrepreneurial spirit has swept the program. This year, every age group is selling something different. At the end of the summer, the money will be put together to do something fun for the kids.

When Hillsborough County students return to school on August 18th, the after-school program at the Planteen will be waiting for them. Tomlin, Lincoln and Wilson are local schools that bring students to the facility. The cost is $150.00 per nine week session, the hours are 2:30pm-6:00pm. Snacks, games, activities, arts and crafts, homework help and special presentations are provided.

Exercising at the Planteen in 1959.

Teen Nights are very well monitored and fun.

Remaining dates for summer are July 25, August 8 & 22, and September 12 & 26. Hours are from 7:00pm-11:00pm, and the cost is $7.00.

The Planteen Center

Although Washburn has only been with the Planteen for approximately 2 ½ years, under her leadership, the number of classes and the participation has soared. “We’re excited with all the new classes and things that Chris has been able to get generated,” stated Haldane.

In addition to summer and after school programs, the Planteen offers specialty and fitness classes as well as activities throughout the year. Some classes are held in the Winter Visitors’ Center located adjacent to the Planteen on the Baker Road side.

Originally from New York, Washburn has been in the recreation field for twenty-two years. She has worked in recreation departments in New York, Virginia, Ohio and now Florida. With her diverse background, creativity and expectations for quality programs, it is no wonder why the Planteen is the place to be.

“Kids Night Out,” the Saturday evening program for children ages 6-12 years old will begin in October with a Halloween dance/carnival, and then be held quarterly. Washburn is planning for a Christmas, Valentine’s and end of the school year bash as themes for the remaining events.

In fact, if Mary Valdez can’t make it to Sanchez’s Zumba classes, she’s not happy. It is understandable; Zumba is something you don’t want to miss and Sanchez is the reason why. “She just motivates me,” enthused Valdez.

Just like in the 1940’s, today’s teens want to get together and have a good time. The popular “Planteen Teen Nights” draw over three hundred 6th -8th graders. “Teen Nights, they’re a big hit, ” said Washburn. In keeping with the changing times, Washburn and her staff have put several security measures in place to ensure the safety of those attending. “We want to keep our kids safe,” she said. “We take those precautions to make sure that they’re safe.”

The forty-one year old Sanchez is indeed motivating. Moving in fluid motion in front of her class, she creates an energy that connects the group. Watching her dance and move to the music, it is hard to believe she once weighed two hundred pounds.

Sanchez carries pictures of her former self and offers them as proof of the woman she once was. By eating small portions exercising, the weight came off. The Costa Rica native, who

taught Maranga Salsa classes in her country, bought her first Zumba DVD in the United States only two years ago. After purchasing more DVD’s and taking one year of classes at the YMCA, Sanchez obtained certification and began teaching. In the past year, she has earned three certifications and a very loyal following. In fact, there is such demand that she now also teaches Zumba at the Dance Carousel and the Athletic Club in Plant City.

Eva Ruiz started Sanchez’s class four months ago and has already lost seventeen pounds. She comes faithfully to every class and has gotten smaller as a result, going from a size thirteen to a five/seven.

According to Sanchez, you can burn 1,000 calories in one hour “if you move”. It’s impossible not to.

The music, the dancing and of course Sanchez, will get you going. “Zumba’s like a party,” she said.

“You’re doing exercises without knowing you’re losing weight.”

Though English is her second language, there is no translation needed during Sanchez’s class. She communicates perfectly through the universal languages of music and dance. Sanchez’s class is truly a party.

Across from the Planteen in the Winter Visitors’ Center, Eighty-six year old Clarice Stewart’s Senior Aerobics class meets three times a week. Yes you read it correctly; Stewart is eighty-six. She’ll be eighty-seven on July 9th , but you’d never know it.

Originally from Virginia and one of twelve children, Stewart took over a church aerobics class in Plant City twenty-five years ago. With her

Hallowscreams Teen Dance – Friday, October 26, 2007 at the Planteen.

The Planteen has been the site of dances for generations. A dance in the original Planteen in 1946.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 44

The Planteen Center gracious and caring nature and excellent program, it is no wonder why her class kept growing. In 1991, with the support of City Manager at the time, Nettie Draughon, Stewart moved her class to the Planteen and then finally across to the Winter Visitors’ Center.

She has been there ever since.

Stewart’s students range in age from 50-90 years old and some have been with her for twenty years.

There are those that move a little slower than others and that’s just fine. This mother of five knows how to individualize her instruction to meet all of their needs. Her low impact aerobic class is combined with line dancing and light weights. It is geared for all ability levels. In between songs, there’s laughter and happy chatter and a welcoming feeling among friends.

If students don’t make it to class for some reason, they know Stewart will call. “I have two families,” she said. “These people are mine. I worry about them. I know who is not here and why they’re not here.”

Stewart and her students have lived through lifetimes. They have known great joy and they have known great sorrow. Some still work, some are retired. They once were Strawberry Queens and teachers, businesswomen and mothers with young children. Together each week…they are now a family.

The following is the latest class information for the Planteen Recreation Center. There is something for everyone. Take a class, make new friends, and discover the fun that’s waiting for you. You’ll be glad you did.

7:00pm and intermediate/advanced, 7:00pm-8:00 pm. For more detailed information contact Mary Jane Agular @ 863-943-4403.

Country Line Dancing: If you want to learn new steps or just polish up on what you know, come on in and join us. Classes held on Mondays, 7:30pm9:00pm in the Planteen. All ages welcomed! $5.00 per class. Contact Donna for more information @ 986-2820.

Delia’s Aerobic Turbo Blast: New Class!! Turbo sculpting for rapid results. High-energy aerobics using weights, stepping and dance moves to create a total body workout. Classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:00am-7:00am or 5:00pm-6:00pm at the Winter Visitors’ Center. This class is geared for the Hispanic population and instructors are Spanish speaking. For more information contact 764-3608.

Jazzercise: One hour of fun filled aerobics along with body toning exercises. Mats and weights are available. Cost: $35.00 per month. New students: $25.00 for the first month. Classes held Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:00pm-7:00pm at the Winter Visitors’ Center. Contact Donna for more information @ 986-4267.

Patrick’s Patriots: Learn the basics of Baton Twirling and techniques. Barbara teaches various routines that the girls will perform at special events around town.

Classes held on Thursdays, 3:30pm-7: 30pm in the Planteen. $5.00 per class. For more information call 626-4554.

If you have any questions about the classes or you are an instructor and would like to offer a class, call Chris Washburn @ (813) 659-4256.

Senior Aerobics: Low impact aerobics combined with line dancing steps developed for all ability levels. $1.00 per class. Classes held Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 8:30am-9: 30am at the Winter Visitors’ Center. Contact Clarice @752-8476 for more information.

Belly Dancing: Open to all Adults/Young Adults at the Winter Visitors’ Center. Learn the basics of Belly Dancing. $35.00 for 8 weeks. Or $6.00 per class. Classes held on Mondays, beginner’s 6:00pm-

Tae Kwon Do: Martial Arts Instruction for ages 5 years and up. This class stresses self-discipline, selfdefense, confidence and fitness. $5.00 registration fee and $25.00 per month thereafter. Classes held

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5:30pm-8: 30pm in the Planteen. Contact Steve or Crystal @ 737-3872 for more details on how to enroll.

Taoist Tai Chi: Enhance your body, soul and mind with 108 moves that provide gentle turning and stretching movements. All ages welcomed. Cost: $5.00. Classes held Tuesdays, 7:00pm-8: 30pm at the Winter Visitors’ Center. Contact Joe @ 6851211.

Zumba!: Dance your way to a fitter you with exciting and unique Latin moves and rhythms.

High-energy workout with Fantastic results!

Classes held Mondays, 6:30pm-7:30pm in the Planteen. Wednesdays, 6:00pm-7:00pm in the Planteen and Saturdays, 10:00am-11:00am at the Winter Visitors’ Center. For more information please contact Patty @ 516-4731.

The Planteen Recreation Center and Winter Visitors’ Center are also available for rental.

Facilities can accommodate groups of 50 to 200.

Prices vary according to size of group and length of time. Contact Chris Washburn @ (813) 659-4256 for additional information.

Please visit the website for The Planteen Recreation Center, www.plantcitygov.com/Information will soon be updated.

Note: Special thanks to The Plant City Photo Archives and The East Hillsborough Historical Society for their help in obtaining historical facts and photos.

Information for this story was obtained through personal interviews, The 1945 Plant City High School Year Book - “KANYUKSAW,” and The Plant City Courier Friday, November 3, 1944 edition.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 45

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1505 South Alexander Street Suite 102 Plant City, FL 33563 813.717.7700 FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 46

Business MAGAZINE

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 47

Family Brings Success A Peace of Heaven Travel Agency

Exciting Vacations \ Home-based business \ supports charities

Brandon Ice Sports Forum

You dream of traveling in the lap of luxury, golfing the greatest courses in the world, sipping wine while watching the sun set over an island paradise. But no, you’re stuck in a dead-end job, the usual bills and the thought of a real vacation to anywhere is just a fantasy. Or is it?

than we would have ever dreamed possible.”

Ever since they met, they wanted to own and work a business together. Owning an online travel service called A Peace of Heaven Travel with YTB Travel Network has brought them success and a path to financial freedom for their family.

Sheri and Lawrence LeDuc of Dover, FL work hard at their business, play with fervor and enjoy their passion for travel. Are the LeDuc’s just absolutely rich? No, they’re just like the rest of us, working, raising a family and planning for their future. But, Sheri and Lawrence “have found a business opportunity that affords us more freedom

“YTB is a top-25 U.S. travel seller, set to sell one billion of travel in 2008.” (Business Journal Feb. 2008). “YTB International announced on April 17, 2008, that its Class A Common Stock has been approved for quotation on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin board.” (PRNewswire-FirstCall). This home-based business markets online travel

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 48

websites to independent representatives, like the LeDuc family, and sustains travel vendor relationships, deals with travel transactions, incurs travel commissions and distributes sales commissions. This is a company of great integrity founded by J. Lloyd Tomer, Scott Tomer and J. Kim Sorensen in January 2001.

Besides personal financial success, Lloyd Tomer wanted to help non-profit organizations in America, like food banks, earn needed funds. Passport to Giving was started in 2004 to allow an online funding program for non-profit businesses. YTB will provide a non-profit with a “private label”

packages, vacation packages, purchase flowers and now purchase cars over the web. You earn commissions on all travel arrangements made on your web site. Now you’ll get weekly paychecks, be your own entrepreneur and have the ability to explore our wonderful world. “There are many tax advantages to owning your own business including writing off business and travel expenses,” says Lawrence LeDuc. You can start part time, then go full time and go to seminars to learn the travel business. Travel basically sells itself.

Interested in your own online travel business?

You too can become financially independent while traveling as an independent travel representative. On Thursdays, at the Brandon Ice Sports Forum at 1022 Elizabeth Place, from 7:15 p.m. – 8:15 p.m. there will be a free Open House with a forty-five minute visual presentation. Call Sheri or Lawrence to reserve your spot or for a personal oneon-one visit. According to Sheri, “our hearts are in this company, and we love to help people have their own business and become successful.” Call (813) 624-2384 for more information. It’s time for you to be the world traveler sipping pina coladas!

On a Caribbean cruise, the LeDuc’s braved Dunn River Falls.

travel website, so supporters and their network of friends can book travel arrangements on the site.

YTB will pay 60 percent of travel commissions to the non-profit organization.

There are quite a few great reasons to own your own online travel agency with YTB. For a small, one-time fee, YTB creates your web site and gives you lots of support. Create your business name, order business cards, take training and now tell all your friends and new acquaintances to book travel on your site. While you now travel as an insider, your web site allows customers to books cruises, flights, hotels, wedding

While on a trip to Italy, a sunflower field just called to their precious daughter.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 49

The Athletic Club Professional Fitness Training

State-of-the-Art-Equipment \ Child Activity Center \ Professional Trainers \ Cleanliness \ Family Owned

When it comes to health clubs in Plant City, there is a premier fitness center located right in the heart of Plant City. Just off James Redman on Evers St. is a world-class 1.5 million dollar facility that can provide health and fitness options for everyone in Plant City. The Athletic Club, located at 1418 S Evers St. offers programs for fitness that are appropriate for anyone from age 5 to 105.

The Athletic Club strives to follow a core philosophy in business. Kevin Donofrio the owner and President is a firm believer

in the benefits of fitness; he is a 28-year veteran of the industry as well as former professional athlete. “Our philosophy is truly very simple - do it right! This simple concept applies to every aspect of our business, especially on the focus of ‘doing it right’ by our customers,” said Donofrio.

“We make every attempt to stay proactively ahead of the curve in all areas of wellness.

This philosophy is exemplified through The Athletic Clubs 21 year history.”

Donofrio founded The Athletic Clubs in 1987. He attended Edinboro University

ting io Celebra na Donofr ri at K d s Kevin an Busines 21 Years In

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 50

in Pennsylvania. He has been an active member of many Tampa Bay area organizations. He has received distinct honors such as Small Business of the Year.

With an eye for success and a proven track record of being the best, Donofrio has been a five-time All American in Greco Roman and Freestyle Wrestling and has achieved titles such as Mr. Atlanta, Mr. Georgia, and Coastal U.S.A. Body Building Champion.

Donofrio also toured the world for eight years in professional wrestling, known professionally as Cyborg. Having retired from pro-wrestling, Donofrio is an active

philanthropist in the community and he was a volunteer wrestling coach at Brandon High School for the last six years. He is also a member of the Plant City Chamber of Commerce.

His background and involvement in the community make Donofrio an exceptionally great force behind The Athletic Club.

He is actively involved in the day-to-day operations of the club and constantly strives to keep The Athletic Clubs on the cutting edge of fitness advances. “A large part of any health club is its equipment,” said Donofrio. “We provide not only the latest equipment available, but we also host the area’s largest variety of machines, free weights and other fitness equipment.” In addition, the health club is sustained in immaculate condition in cleanliness, and organization. When parts are needed for equipment, The Athletic Club has them sent in overnight whenever possible to make sure the members have what they need.

“Our staff is always friendly and helpful and our amenities are designed to offer every aspect of convenience in helping each member sustain health and fitness.”

In addition to basic work out equipment, The Athletic Club employs experienced, nationally certified trainers. There is a strong emphasis on group fitness and The Athletic Club offers twenty classes such as Yoga, Zumba, Boot Camp, Spinning, (fixed wheel group cycling) and Cardio Kickboxing. With more than fifty years of combined classroom instruction experience and 41 combined years in professional training, members can be assured that they are receiving the highest quality guidance as they work their way to total physical fitness. Donofrio does not stop there though; he also provides additional programs to help member find success.

The instructors at The Athletic Club take their jobs very seriously. Keisha Butts is a group fitness instructor with four years of experience. “I try to put something new in

my classes each time,” she said. “Variety keeps your class fresh.” Erin Stewart leads the Boot Camp training and has been

program and expert trainers to keep you motivated, any fitness goal is within your reach.” They offer tailored solutions, which

Group Fitness Trainer Erin.

instructing for five years. “I want to change the way people think about fitness,” she said. “Be the best you can be, we don’t need to shoot for the magazine cover.”

Tobey Pullen, Spin instructor with fifteen years of experience is even more exuberant, “Teaching Spin gives me a feeling of freedom,” she said. “My class and I are 100% focused on our bodies and improving performance. It’s a great feeling.”

Get The Edge is Donofrio’s professional fitness training program. “While providing the latest tools in meal planning, weight management and fitness planning, our service also includes expert trainers and natural health consultants to help you get going on a tailored plan for your success,” said Donofrio.

“With a customized fitness

include single or group training packages, to meet any budget. Their expert, trained staff goes the extra step to help each client reach their optimal fitness goals.

Jesse McClamma has been a Personal Trainer for ten years. Jesse has an excellent training background in fitness/nutrition as well as self-defense. “I want my clients to

Certified Trainer Jesse.

Continued on page 52 FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 51

Friendly Knowledgeable Staff / Premier Cardiovascular Training Center / Group Fitness Classes / Spinning be strong both mentally and physically,” he said. “When they gain strength mentally and physically I feel we can improve, change, or even save their lives.”

Another trainer for six years, Emerson Morris a former football player who

premier Health Club facility, focused on providing a one-stop comprehensive health and fitness solution for every aspect of our clients’ needs. They maintain a professional and immaculate environment that provides top-grade equipment, convenient classes and effective fitness solutions for every member. “We are confident that you will find our equipment, classes, amenities and fitness programs to be of exceptional value and unbeatable service,” said Donofrio.

“That is the goal of The Athletic Club and we always want our members’ feedback and ideas to continually sustain our leading position in health and fitness.”

The Athletic Club is excited to have Patty Sanchez join our Group Training Fitness Team. Patty teaches one of the hottest

Emerson: Certified Professional Trainer Professional Athletic Coach

received a four year scholarship to USF where he also earned a Bachelors Degree in Criminology as well as a Physical Education Certification. Emerson believes that,” Fitness starts from the heart & soul, improve your diet and nutrition and believe you can achieve your goals and you will be successful.” All of the trainers are highly motivated to help members reach whatever level of fitness that they are hoping to achieve. Their goal is to help bring the athlete out in everyone!

“Our philosophy revolves around delivering tailored services for each and every member, with a goals set firmly on being the best in the area at all we do,” said Donofrio. “We are committed to what we do with dedication, integrity and a continued drive to make a difference in our communities.”

Donofrio and his staff believe that The Athletic Clubs offer far more than any other Health Club can. The Athletic Club is a

Pattie Sanchez leading a Zumba work-out

exercise programs sweeping the country, ZUMBA. Zumba is a combination of fast and slow rhythms (salsa, meringue, cumbia, regueton, flamenco etc.) with aerobics interval training. It targets areas such as the gluts, legs, arms, abdominals, and the most important muscle in the body THE HEART! Patty is originally from Costa Rica and has been living in Plant City for 10 years.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 52

Because of Zumba, she has lost 70 pounds, and now she says, “I am a woman with energy, very positive, I feel younger, and the most important no more pills for my high blood pressure, I feel and look very healthy”.

“I am very happy to go teach Zumba at The Athletic Club, because I want to transmit my passion for dance and to help and meet new people.”

The Athletic Club’s state-of-the-art fitness equipment includes: Cybex Life Fitness Hammer Strength Free Weights/Advanced Training20,000 lbs. of free weights to satisfy every strength goal Boxing Area, Speed bags, Heavy bags to sharpen your boxing skills, or punch away the stress!

Group fitness classes offered at The Athletic Club provide an unsurpassed array of conveniently planned fitness programs. Zumba/ Stretch Class/Step Aerobics/ Cardio Kickboxing/Spinning/ Pilates The cardiovascular equipment area is extra large with audio/ video theatre, the perfect cardio solution for anyone’s needs.

The Athletic Club features the areas largest inventory of Stairmasters, Lifecycles, Treadmills, and Ellipticals complemented by the audio/video theater.

Members use the cardio center to burn off those extra calories and maintain great cardiovascular and respiratory efficiency.

The Athletic Club works hard, not just in fitness, but in bringing members the most comprehensive health and fitness solution available today. The one-stop membership also includes the following amenities:

• National Affiliates: (over 1200 Clubs) Full service clubs to use during travel in most major cities across the country and worldwide.

• Child Activity Center: No sitter? No problem at The Athletic Club. Members can bring the kids and enjoy a little time taking care of themselves. The Athletic Club has got it covered with CPR Certified Play Guides, (Ages: 1 yr. to 11 yrs.). Video games and toys galore are available to keep the young ones occupied.

• Tanning Salon: Enjoy completely private tanning salons with Wolfe Tanning Systems for a deep dark year round tan.

• Locker Room with Large Private Shower Stalls.

Charlene Carter is a three-year member of the club. “When I joined the Athletic Club I couldn’t run at all,” she said. “Now I run 3 miles to warm up! I like this club because it’s like family here, the staff is friendly and helpful.”

Neil Bell has also been a member for three years.” I workout at The Athletic Club because I want serious training,” said Bell.

“I’ve lost 38 lbs, gained strength, size, and endurance. I use the whole club, cardio; spin class, machines, and free weights. It’s a part of my life.”

“When a new member joins, he or she gets a free session with one of our

trainers,” said Debbie Lowe. “They assess anaerobic and aerobic abilities, flexibility, neurotesting and short and long muscle strengths.” Based on the assessment, a plan is constructed to help the new member find success in meeting their fitness goals. “The fitness assessment is a great way to kickstart your program.”

Larry Williams joined The Athletic Club three months ago. “I left a large, wellknown health club to join here because I don’t want to socialize, I want serious training and I found it at The Athletic Club.” Whether a member is looking for cardio exercise and a supportive environment like Carter or serious training without distraction like Williams, The Athletic Club has the flexibility to meet either type of members’ needs.

Donofrio is especially excited about an upcoming program that will be offered soon at The Athletic Club, the Kid’s Fitness Movement. The focus is on eliminating child obesity. According to Donofrio, by 2010, 50% of all children in the United States will be overweight or obese and the Kid’s Fitness Movement is part of his plan to combat that trend. The program will be open to children from the age of 5-13 years old. Each session will be supervised by a professional coach. The Athletic Club hopes to get kids off the couch and into fitness by providing a dynamic and

fun program for them as an alternative to television and video games.

High school age kids will benefit from another innovative program that The Athletic Club hopes to offer soon. They plan to provide sports-specific training for high school athletes as well as general programs that will be beneficial to all high school students regardless of their athletic aspirations. “We really want to focus on families,” said Donofrio.

From head to toe and regardless of age, The Athletic Club clearly has a proactive and progressive approach to fitness. Their innovative programs, top-notch facilities, experienced staff and superb equipment provide all the tools that will enable members to achieve fitness goals that have long eluded them. It is all about support and knowledge and The Athletic Club offers both. Donofrio and Lowe bring a passion for fitness that is impossible to ignore. Plant City benefits greatly from their drive to help make the community healthier.

For more information, visit their website at http://www.PartnersInWellness.org, stop by their club on Evers, or call 813-717-7773 for a comp Trial Membership.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 53

Coffee 101 is Destination #1

Located In Downtown District Facing McCall Park Specialty Coffee / Gelato / Pastries / Breakfast & Lunch In the search for a place to gather, meet, relax and rejuvenate, then one place stands out as a special destination for Plant City residents and visitors Coffee 101.

Owners, Jonathan and Heather Davis, opened Coffee 101 in February of 2007 and have been serving the community of Plant City for over a year and a half from their downtown location at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. During this time, Coffee 101 has evolved to become a place to visit for many different reasons. The most obvious reason is the hand-crafted specialty coffee drinks that are prepared specifically per order by highly trained baristas. Coffee 101’s drink menu is extensive enough to offer something for every taste. For the coffee connoisseurs,

specialty roasted espresso drinks such as lattes, macchiatos and cappuccinos are available. On the other side of the spectrum, high quality fresh fruit smoothies and cold blended coffee drinks topped with fresh made whip cream are readily prepared. Fine quality loose leaf teas are also available.

Needing something to go along with your coffee? Coffee 101 does much more than just quench your thirst by providing a daily breakfast and lunch menu. Some of the menu selections include freshly prepared breakfast sandwiches, fresh fruit yogurt and granola parfaits, specialty made wraps, Andrew’s Famous Gourmet Chicken or Tuna Salad on a flaky croissant or in a stuffed tomato, homemade quiche and specialty soups. Scones and New York style bagels

are made fresh daily Many handmade artisan style pastries are also available such as apple and cherry turnovers, coconut macaroons, giant chocolate chip cookies, biscotti and fudge brownies all freshly prepared by a local renowned pastry chef.

Coffee 101’s newest addition to their menu is Gelato and Sorbet. Gelato is a high quality Italian style ice cream that is richer and smoother (but lower in calories and fat) than regular ice cream. Sorbet is an all-fruit-based non-cream frozen desert. Both the Gelato and Sorbet are made fresh and delivered in many tempting flavors such as Pistacchio, Fruit of the Forest, Mango, Strawberry Chocolate, Chocolate Hazelnut, Tiramisu and Limoncello, just to name a few. The Gelato alone is worth a visit to Coffee 101 as it is one of the few places (outside of Italy) offering this style of high quality frozen dessert.

The true backbone and focus of Coffee 101 has been in serving and supporting the community in various ways. Coffee 101 has been involved in sponsoring fundraisers for charities such as Habitat for Humanity, as well as being the home for many weekly community-based inspired events such as the popular Bluegrass Jam Sessions held every Thursday night. Many talented, local musicians perform live every weekend, as well as an Open Mic night, which offers local talent a way to express themselves through music and spoken word. Monthly drum circles, belly dancing and Jam Sessions are also a part of the Coffee 101 calendar. Local art is always on display

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 54

showcasing many of Plant City’s talented local artists along with monthly artist receptions. Weekly and monthly groups and classes are also held at Coffee 101, such as a free Spanish Classes. Art classes, book discussions, writing groups and knitting groups have also been held at Coffee 101 during various times. Coffee 101 truly offers something for every interest.

Coffee 101 provides a convenient location for a meeting place or a special event such as a reception, shower or birthday party. A specially prepared catering menu is available for such events where Coffee 101 will provide coffee, pastries and food services for your special occasion. Many satisfied

businesses have used Coffee 101 for this purpose including the YMCA and Bruton Memorial Library, as well as many other local businesses.

Coffee 101 is open for business from Monday through Saturday. Summer hours are from 8a.m.–5p.m, Monday through Wednesday and from 8a.m.–10p.m, Thursday through Saturday.

Coffee 101 is able to custom it’s hours to meet the needs of a special event if necessary. A drive-thru, which is accessible from Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, is also available for convenience as well as callahead service.

For more information on Coffee 101, call them at (813) 659-0101, visit them at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd, check out their website at www.espressyourself101.com or visit their My Space at www.myspace.com/ espressyourself101.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 55

Dr. Vinyl of West Central Florida Leather and Vinyl Care and Repair

Saving damaged leather \ mobile service \ one-year warranty Dr. Vinyl’s most appreciative customer was perhaps the gentleman whose Doberman puppy chewed holes in his leased Ford Expedition’s leather seats. So pleased in fact, he rewarded Dr. Vinyl’s owner, Sean Gonzalez, with a $50 tip and called for additional service the following year before the car’s lease expired. The $200 invoice had saved this customer $1,500 for replacement cost. “We literally filled every tooth mark,” chuckles Sean.

Dr. Vinyl of West Central Florida is the franchise Sean purchased four years ago and operates with friend, Tom McCurdy. The mobile service van travels to homes, marinas, airports, restaurants, professional offices, furniture showrooms, auto and boat dealerships and places of employment to repair, replace or restore damage and discolorations in leather, fabric and vinyl upholstered products. Examples of services include: + Upholstery repair, restoration and new installation (vehicles, jet planes, office furniture, hotels, etc.) + Striping and graphic work on cars, boats, planes, motorcycles, jet skis, etc. + New car warranty work for Bill Heard Chevrolet and other area auto dealerships + Pre-owned auto interior vinyl and leather damage repair + Chemical treatment that restores life, luster and color to vehicle trim moldings + Deodorizing fog treatment to clean vehicle air vents, eliminating cigarette or moisture odors + Kits to change interior upholstery from cloth to leather (almost one-third the average cost) + Glaze and cloud correction for plastic vehicle headlights common to certain brands Tom McCurdy, Associate (left) and Sean Gonzalez, Owner of Dr. Vinyl of West Central Florida FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 56

armrest before

Eventually, Gonzalez and McCurdy plan to establish storefront operations in their west central Florida territory to house repair facilities and market vehicle performance products. Since Dr. Vinyl is the only company of this type that give warranties for products and service for a year, they have almost no competition.

Evidence of the affordability factor comes in the long list of repeat commercial customers such as Outback Steakhouse, Applebee’s, O’Brien’s, Peso’s and many others. The upscale Galatis Yacht Sales, whose wealthy customers expect perfection, also regularly use Dr. Vinyl’s services.

Another satisfied individual customer is the teenager who borrowed his dad’s car for the evening. When he saw the cigarette burns his friends left in the leather upholstery, he panicked. Then he remembered hearing about

armrest after

dash kit before

Dr. Vinyl and their services. Sean and Tom saved the student from embarrassment and apologies to a predictably unhappy father. A key selling point for Sean when he purchased the franchise was the guarantee to customers to “meet or exceed your expectations more than 94 percent of the time, as we repair or restore to new and stronger condition than prior.” Business owners have peace of mind when products and services they represent have commitments like this.

Franchise operators update their skills through periodic Dr. Vinyl training programs and new approaches to service. These age 20-to-30-something young men from Brandon are now extremely excited about a product unveiled at the recent Dr. Vinyl convention.

Once applied, the treatment is guaranteed to eliminate the need for waxing vehicle painted

dash kit after

finishes. Owners simply spray with water only and wipe dry for a shiny clean, showroom quality appearance. Both Sean and Tom enjoy cars, sports and fishing, and know their customer base will expand greatly as they promote this work-reducing product.

Dr. Vinyl is a name you can trust, so tuck this phone number and services list away for future reference. Affordable repairs to upholstery and special services to enhance the appearance of vehicles are just a phone call away. Depending on the project, repairs and restoration are usually accomplished from within 30 minutes to several hours. Sean and Tom provide a quick response to your request and might even have another great repair story to share with you. Dial (813) 681-4002 to schedule appointments.

leather seat before

leather seat after

leather before

leather after

freightliner before

freightliner after

chair before

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FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 57

The Granite and Marble Gallery One-stop shopping for all your decorating needs

simple elegance \ convenient showroom \ incredible durability

Pam Brester, BJ and Richard Clark

The Granite and Marble Gallery (LLC) is owned and operated by Pam Brester and Richard Clark, who have a combined 46 years of business experience, 34 years of design experience and over 11 years of experience in the natural stone business. The Granite and Marble Gallery offers hand-selected granite, marble, travertine and other rare, exotic natural stone slabs from around the world to clients in

Central Florida. Complete customer services include granite selection and countertop fabrication, along with custom designed cabinets and installation for your home or office. The Granite and Marble Gallery also offers a large selection of decorative rosettes, listellos, floor and bathroom ceramic and porcelain tile with complete installation available for your residential and commercial decorating needs.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 58

Their natural granite and marble stones are imported from Italy, Brazil, Turkey, Spain, Greece, Norway, Taiwan, India, China and S. Africa.

Experience the beauty of natural stone in an old-world setting at the Gallery’s Showroom and Design Center, located right off I-4 in

A wide variety of tile choices are displayed in the Granite & Marble Gallery Showroom

Lakeland, at 1620 West Memorial Blvd. There you will find rich colors and unique patterns and see why the strength of granite stone makes it an ideal choice for your kitchen countertops and bathroom vanities. Granite is also extremely low maintenance. Each stone has its own unique mineral make- up that creates the colors and structure to make your countertops truly a custom appearance and never to go out of style. These deep, rich colors and elusive one-of-a-kind beauty was created only

by Mother Nature. As a result, granite countertops add a character and warmth to your kitchen, bath and other accent areas of your home with richness so deep that you cannot duplicate with synthetic man-made materials like corian or silestone.

Granite provides an excellent work surface for kitchens. Granite countertops will not blister or crack under normal usage and its polished finish won’t wear off. They are highly stain resistant. Granite countertops are beautiful, durable and cost competitive solutions for your kitchen and bath in both residential and commercial applications.

Cleaning is simple, just wipe with a damp warm cloth. It will remain beautiful and lustrous, literally lasting forever.

MYTHS DOES GRANITE STAIN? For the most part, granite does not stain. We apply an impregnating sealer to the stone when it is installed to further protect your granite countertop from staining. Water left on granite countertop for a long period of time will show evidence of moisture, but it will, however, evaporate and the dark spot will disappear.

DOES GRANITE CRACK OR CHIP? Most flaws in stone are detected during transit of slab. IF it can withstand the fabrication process, it will NEVER BREAK under normal kitchen conditions. You would have to assault it with a hammer and really have to work at it...

DOES GRANITE HARBOR BACTERIA? Bacteria is found everywhere. If it is found, then it also will be found on a laminate surface or any other man-made material as well. To prevent any concern, we recommend using an antibacterial soap to wash your countertop regularly.

Granite, however, is an igneous rock or molten magma, which is cooled and then hardened below the earth’s surface. Granite is the hardest surface available on the market today.

Is GRANITE EXPENSIVE? Granite is usually very competitively priced and affordable in today’s market compared to other high-end surface materials. Amazingly, the price of granite compared to other luxury surfaces like corian and silestone is similarly priced and very affordable... GRANITE offers you an unmatched value with its natural beauty, elegance and longevity. Granite countertops definitely add true value to the appraised amount of your home!!

Feel free to call Pam Brester (Cell 863-6702092) or Richard Clark (863-802-5600) at the GRANITE AND MARBLE GALLERY for a free in-home consultation.

Is GRANITE AND MARBLE essentially the SAME? Besides the fact that they are both natural stones and can be polished, they are inherently different. Marble is a calcious stone formed by oceanic deposit and then compressed under pressure. Marble is more porous and brittle and breaks more easily under pressure.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 59

The Health Center Rehabilitative Therapy at Its Best

caring staff / advanced equipment / highly qualified therapist The Plant City community is blessed with several great medical rehabilitative facilities. For premier treatment when the need arises, most choose The Health Center of Plant City on Wilder Road.

Since 1987, the Health Center has provided the ultimate in both residential (short term/ long term) and outpatient care. The center’s reputation for compassionate response, competent staff and customer satisfaction results in Hillsborough, Polk and Pasco physician referrals for physical (PT), occupational (OT) and speech therapy (ST). Increasingly, area locals request their doctors refer them to the Health Center, where forty to fifty patients are served during a typical day.

Administrator Stan Weyer is especially proud of the extensively educated, exceptionally trained and highly motivated staff. The eleven therapists who form the rehab team have combined restorative medical service experience in excess of 150 years and passion for their work is evident.

They consider improving patients’ health a privilege.

The team also appreciates the beautiful, resortlike facility that accommodates clients through the use of advanced equipment FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 60

and time-proven strategies. Windows overlooking green areas surround the cheerfully, brightly lit 5,000 square foot treatment area. Patients benefit from the peaceful atmosphere, personal attention and positive encouragement provided here.

Professional assurance expedites healing, so Health Center clients’ quickly return to their maximum functionality.

Amanda Gilbert, Therapeutic Services Director, coordinates patient care protocol with therapists and doctors, surgeons, nurses, counselors, nutritional staff and caretakers/family members. She enjoys witnessing patient improvements when they apply themselves to treatment regimen and exercises. Amanda recognizes, “It’s a

Speech pathologist Lisa Hardee joined the Health Center staff after serving Hillsborough County students at area public schools. “I prefer to work one-on-one in a rehab setting and enjoy seeing progress in the older clientele. I trust the closeknit staff here and would recommend our services to anyone who needs therapeutic assistance.”

Husband-and-wife therapists, Frank and Julie Gallo, enjoy working together with such a cohesive team. Physical therapist Frank enjoys personal interaction with patients as he directs care for strength and motion range restoration while pain, edema and sleep interruptions are reduce. “We desire that our patients not only improve, but that they thrive.” Julie is an 18-year veteran occupational therapist. She uses OT to help clients recover daily living skills (dressing, bathing, performing household tasks) and functionality through gait training, strength building exercises, and electrical stimulation. “I enjoy the handson treatment of the whole patient and seeing people, against all odds, return to normalcy.”

Perhaps local resident Confessor Garcia says it best: “The Health Center is the best place I’ve been. It’s beautiful, serves great food, and has wonderful therapists.” Flo Clark-Ingraham, assistant PT, agrees: “We love people, fun, and laughter. Our team is the best because we’re committed to our patients and the mission of The Health Center.”

humbling experience to provide help when people need it most. We go through life presuming our health will always be good.

When it’s not, dedicated professionals in a facility like ours can assist in rapid recovery.”

According to patient JoAnn Shaw, “Don’t come here if you don’t want to work and see progress. These therapists are serious about helping patients return to maximum health.

Through their patience, they teach you to be patient with yourself as you regain mobility.”

Don’t wait until you have a need, schedule a tour of the five-star accommodations at The Health Center of Plant City at 701 N. Wilder Road (east of the Otis Andrews Sports Complex, just south of I-4). Phone (813)752-3611 or e-mail pcare@tampabay. rr.com. Stan Weyer and his committed staff welcome your inspection and inquiries.

They’re certain you’ll be impressed.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 61

Jackie’s Dance Theatre, Clogging and Gym Full of Family Fun and Excitement

Teaching Beneficial Skills \ Performance Opportunities \ Talented Teachers Dance creates a truly special bond between you and your child. Music establishes a reassuring and comforting routine.

Movement Enhances healthy development: intellectual, emotional, social, motor and language skills.

shows include performances at Strawberry Festival events, Gasparilla Fun Festivals, Fashion Shows, Plant City Children’s Theatre, clogging conventions, Disney World shows, and professional auditions for ages 8-98.

Jackie’s Dance Theatre and Clogging Gym offers great family fun and excitement. You and your child can enjoy being a part of the prestigious annual dance shows. These

Miss Sharon holds a Bachelor of Arts in Dance and Theatre. Jackie and Sharon’s new routines and exciting classes, anchored by tradition, assure you the best in dance theatre, clogging, gym, and hip-hop.

Miss Jackie’s students have performed in many prestigious events, including Walt Disney World’s “Sparkling Christmas Show”. Miss Jackie was one of the choreographers for the grand opening. When Miss Sharon was only ten years old, this was her first professional job.

Miss Jackie relates her success to the many different programs she has offered over the years, and still offers. She strives to keep her classes relevant and current, offering programs like “The Fun School” for today’s dancer, Clog, Gym, and Hip-hop.

Former students of Jackie’s have gone on to pursue dance careers and successful examples include Karen Goff; United States Naval Academy, Jamie Hall; professional dancer with experience in Opryland and cruise ship dance troupes, Lori Holmes: Broadway - Footloose and Wicked, Toni Coker: Lightning & Bucs cheerleader, Charleene Closshey: professional actress and performer.

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 62

Hip-hop team

Among her staff are: Robin Dawn, instructing Private and Duets; Vic Larson, Tap; Zanda Moore, instructing Voice and Acting; Becky & Jamie Conn, Clogging; David Chernault, Acting & Broadway.

Jackie’s current schedule includes the following classes: Mondays Preschool – Mommy & Me Gym, Ballet, Clog, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre (Lion King), Voice & Acting, Ballet, Pointe Tuesdays Adult Fun Class, Gym, Hip Hop, Pre-school Gym, Pre-teen & Teen Club

Clogging Team

Boys & Girls Ballroom Class: Swing, Waltz, Cha Cha, Salsa & Hip-hop

Wednesdays Adult Tap, Allstar Cheer Team, Hip Hop, Tap, Clog, Adult Tap, and Adult Competition Tap Thursdays Ballet, Gym, Hip Hop, Clog Jr. Showcase,

New Adult Tap, Intermediate Adult Tap Fridays Showcase, New Friday Country Jamboree, Mother / Daughter: clog & line dance, Expert Preschool, New All Star Dance & Drill Team

Cast of Annie 2007/08

Saturdays New All Star Competition Team Check Jackie’s website for current schedule Rehearsals for Lion King 2008 / 2009 will take place Mondays from 5:30 – 8:00. All who register for this production will have a part.

Current Special: The first 30 to bring this article, and pay September tuition will receive the following $60 value: • No registration fee • Free Dance / Gym wear package –

includes leotard, tights & t-shirt Offer valid only on July 31

Jackie’s Dance Theatre, Clogging and Gym 507 North Wheeler St. Plant City (813) 752-1683 www.jackiesdance.com

Expert Preschool

FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 63

New Luxurious Assisted Living Facility is a Step Above Stone Ledge Manor brings Luxury to seniors in need of Assisted Living Business Review by Brian West Photos by Mike Floyd

F

our years ago, Mac Harriman was introduced to a dilapidated, old nursing home on McIntosh Road in Thonotosassa. Today that property is a majestic country estate for assisted living located just three miles north of I- 4. It’s a country place for seniors who want something better in personal care – something extraordinary.

Mac Harriman

Business Review

When people get to be 85 years old, more or less, many are not able to maintain independence. They need substantial assistance with personal care. They can’t keep their medications and doses straight. They need assistance with bathing or personal hygiene.

Perhaps they have difficulty dressing and undressing, or even eating. They may be prone to falls, confusion or forgetfulness. Some have difficulty with continence. Their circumstances may make them isolated, unstimulated and even depressed.

Their loved ones worry a lot about their safety, and their happiness. For many, many people, the most desirable place to reach out to is a facility like Stone Ledge Manor.

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Assisted living facilities can offer peace of mind, but many people are skeptical about the quality of personal care provided. That’s where Stone Ledge Manor clearly sets itself apart from the competition.

Harriman’s transformation is complete and there isn’t a facility in the Tampa Bay area as luxurious or professional as Stone Ledge Manor.

But don’t let the country air lull you into an assumption that it must be miles from civilization; far from it. In fact, Stone Ledge Manor is practically in the back yard of Plant City, Temple Terrace, Brandon, Tampa, Zephyrhills, and Lakeland. So don’t limit your consideration of this facility based on its location. Pay them a visit first and decide for yourself.

are two large community living room areas, a couple of large screened porches, a sunny outdoor courtyard located in the center of the facility, a community recreation room, a library, and even a bench trail around the back side of the facility. There are also old-fashioned brass post office boxes, where the local Thonotosassa US Postal Service delivers the mail.

There are three things that set Stone Ledge Manor apart from other facilities: the location, the facility itself, and the people providing the day-to-day care.

In the last country mile approaching Stone Ledge from I-4, you are naturally taken by the meticulously landscaped east entrance, and then the expansive green-space of the neighboring 18-acrea single family estates offered by neighboring Stone Lake Ranch with its mega-wealth lakefront community. Then you see the working horse ranch just next door. Many Stone Ledge apartments look out on the horses that drift along the fence-line of that beautiful horse-farm.

“The gorgeous country around us just draws you in to its peacefulness and simplicity.” says Harriman.

To say the facility is beautiful is an understatement.

It’s certainly not your typical assisted living facility.

Stone Ledge Manor is approximately 44,000 square feet. The rooms are spacious, ranging from 300 to well over 600 square feet. Every room is wired for wall-controlled ceiling fans. Custom Hardwood cherry cabinets are installed throughout the kitchenettes and baths. There are oversized bathrooms and walk-in showers in every apartment. Each room also has its own doorbell and view-scope for privacy; a nice little touch to help make members feel at home. There’s plenty of space for those in wheel chairs to maneuver around comfortably, and plenty of space to receive assistance from a caregiver. This alone can make a big difference in the comfort of the member. There

The community dining room will seat over sixty people, and Harriman even added two-story windows during the renovation to bring natural lighting into the room. They also have an elegantly furnished private dining room that members can reserve for a special occasion, where the Executive Chef will make a special meal from their delicious catering menu by reservation. Harriman also provided the facility with up-to-date electronics for the ultimate in member safety and security. On the care side, there is a computerized nurse call system, a 32-camera security system that monitors every entrance and exit of the facility plus the common areas. They also have a nurse on staff every day and every room has a wireless system to call the nurse when needed. Each

Lifestyle Director Joy Cooper shares jokes with a member.

Executive Chef Ben Smerdell prepares one of his everyday “delicacies

Business Review & $BMIPVO 4U t Plant City, FL 33566

813-754-8697

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Mac Harriman Stone Ledge Manor room has a DID phone system in place so members can begin their stay with a new number immediately upon movein, or they can even bring their existing home number to the facility. Once the member has moved in, the number is easily transferred to another room if the member should decide to move within the facility. Cable TV is included in the basic rate, and each room is Internet ready for computer.

Harriman didn’t just set up the facility to be luxurious in the sense of bricks and mortar; he also understood that the people working with the members can make all the difference between a good facility and a great facility. “Creating a truly extraordinary professional facility is every bit as complicated, as building the kind of place that will support that,� Harriman said. “You have to find the right mix of people, you have to step-up to provide the leadership, and you have to listen very genuinely to all your members and all the people you are servng – family and professional.�

So Harriman has worked hard to staff Stone Ledge Manor with people who care about caring for others. He challenges them every day to “be extraordinary.� And he tries to listen.

Gerri Rappe, the Concierge for Stone

Ledge Manor, grew up just down the street and has lived in the area her entire life. Rappe said, “My position as Concierge at Stone Ledge Manor gives me the satisfaction of being able to treat our elderly members as the treasures they truly are. Whether they need assistance with writing a check or being assisted with walking down the hall, having a telephone number changed or a newspaper delivered, it is my pleasure to help them in any way possible. Being a local resident makes it even more important to me to have a facility such as Stone Ledge Manor in our community. Our elderly have given us the years of experience, heartaches and accomplishments in their lifetimes, and it is our way of giving back to them some satisfaction in their later years knowing they are loved and cared for here.�

Joy Cooper, the Lifestyle Director, said, “Members at Stone Ledge Manor have lifelong hobbies, activities and personal pursuits that do not change simply because they move into an Assisted Living facility, in fact, these become more important than ever.

At Stone Ledge we customize our Lifestyle program to our members by discovering what they like to do and what they desire to learn to do.

3708 W. Sam Allen Rd. Plant City, FL 33565

813.478.8147 Open: Thu.-Sat. 9:00am - 4:00pm FL Friendly Landscape Designs. Exotic Tropicals.

Hardy Shrubs & Trees. Pottery & Hanging Baskets.

Display Garden. Quality & Service. Delivery Available FOCUS Magazine plant city • july 15 – august 15, 2008 • Page 66

Stone Ledge Manor’s Signature panoramic face along McIntosh Road.

Business Review Mac Harriman Stone Ledge Manor

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Director of Nursing Ruby Zemler, LPN and Concierge Gerri Rappe` complete their newest member services package, describing all the luxury features and amenities offered at Stone Ledge.

Lifetime learning and quality of life are what make these years golden and we help them shine.�

Ruby Zemler LPN, Director of Nursing, has twenty years of experience caring for people of all ages. Zemler welcomed the opportunity to work with Stone Ledge Manor and said, “In any ALF the physical well-being of members is the most important aspect of care. Ensuring that members receive the assistance they require with activities of daily living, that doctors and other care providers are being utilized to best effect and overseeing medications that could otherwise prove harmful is at the heart of the Director of Member Care’s position. At Stone Ledge Manor members believe we excel at these functions and go that extra step. We care about the emotional well-being of our members. Are they happy, settled and enjoying the life they are building with us? If the answer our members give us is a resounding yes, then that makes for a job well done.

Ben Smerdell, Director of Dining Services, is responsible for meals for all the members. Smerdell said, “We’re all blessed with a gift, and mine is caring for our seniors. I am very grateful to have this opportunity in my life to focus my skills as a Chef to make a difference in our members’ lives.�

You’ll find many assisted living facilities in the Tampa Bay area, but you’ll be hard pressed to find anything comparable to Stone Ledge Manor – especially once you’ve seen it. From the moment you walk through the front door, you’ll know that the time for your visit was time well spent. If you or your loved ones are looking for a facility, please stop by and visit Stone Ledge Manor today.

They’ll be glad to have you experience their delicious dining with an advance reservation. For more information Stone Ledge Manor can be reached at 813986-7900.

813.717.7700 1505 South Alexander Street Suite 102

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business & finance investing

submit ted by e dward jo nes

Inheritance Will you ever receive a sizable inheritance? You can’t plan on it. But if you do get one, you can plan on using it to help achieve some of your key financial goals. Once you get word of an inheritance, what steps should you take? Above all, don’t rush to act. If you are in the midst of the grieving process, it’s hard to make good decisions about money. Consequently, you may want to consider “parking” your inheritance temporarily in a liquid vehicle, such as a cash or cash alternative investment. Don’t fret if your inheritance isn’t really growing much for a few months — you’ll have time to put it to work later.

After you’ve parked your money and some time has passed, you can think about what to do with your inheritance. Here are a few ideas: • Get rid of debts. Use your inheritance to pay off as many debts as you can, especially those consumer loans that are not tax-deductible and that carry high interest rates.

• Establish an emergency fund. This fund should contain six to 12 months’ worth of living expenses. Without it, you may be forced to dip into your investments to pay for unexpected costs, such as an expensive car repair or a hefty medical bill.

• Review and adjust your financial strategies. If your inheritance is large enough, it may be a “game changer” in terms of how you pursue your financial strategies. For example, you may now be able to speed up your timetable toward retirement, if that’s what you want. Or you may be able to pay more of your children’s college education, thus freeing up more funds for your own retirement savings. In fact, by investing your inheritance in certain ways, you can influence many desired outcomes that you’ve identified in your overall financial strategy. Your financial advisor can help you make those moves that are most appropriate for your individual needs.

• Plan for taxes. Unless you are “inheriting” your spouse’s assets, you may be subject to some type of taxes when you receive an inheritance. Some types of inheritance, such as the proceeds from a life insurance policy, are tax-free. On the other hand, if you inherit a non-spousal 401(k) plan and are forced to take the money as a lump sum, which is likely because most 401(k) providers would prefer to remove the account from their books, your inheritance will be subject to federal, state and local income taxes. However, thanks to recent tax law changes, as a nonspouse beneficiary you can now transfer an inherited 401(k) to an IRA, which allows you to avoid immediately paying taxes on your inheritance. You’ll still be required to take annual withdrawals, which are taxable, but the amount will be based on your life expectancy, so you can spread out your tax burden. To make sure you’re making the right moves with an inherited 401(k), consult with your tax advisor.

You may get only one inheritance in your life — so do whatever you can to make the most of it.

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 69

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business & finance success

Sto ry by C h e ry l Joh n ston

Fred Johnson

Fred Johnson’s home and work have always been in Plant City.

Consequently, he is blessed with lifelong friendships and business relationships. He and wife Tammy have three sons, Owen, Caleb, and Michael, and three grandchildren – Patrick, Cade, and Aubrey. The Johnsons attend First Baptist Church and are involved with almost every charitable function in our town. Aside from growing very popular restaurants, Fred’s hobbies are family activities, reading, and golf. He recently added a restaurant in Bartow, Fred’s Southern Kitchen, in addition to one by the same name in Lakeland, and Fred’s Market Restaurant here in Plant City.

Learn a little more by reading his responses to the following four Focus prompts.

My aspiration is to continue building opportunities that will enhance life for our family, employees, and community.

My inspiration is my wife, Tammy. We’ve been married 28 years and I admire her faith and her character. She supports me in every conceivable way.

Why I’m a success: Our family’s philosophy has always been to treat people right. We try to live it, and our employees extend that approach, too. Our customers are our neighbors, friends, and their friends and family. It helps that we’re in the food industry, but mainly we have been successful because this community has supported us. We also believe in giving back.

What’s next: The next step will be next. We will take them one at a time and see where each leads. We hope to continue growing and serving others.

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 70

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The Estates at Carpenters is a lifecare retirement community with spacious studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments; dining in an elegant dining room or cozy cafe; classes, activities, and services such as maintenance and housekeeping. The peace of mind of a complete range of health care services is available if you need them. Call now for a complimentary lunch and tour…(863) 8535505 or 1-800-299-3847

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FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 71

business & finance success

Sto ry a n d photo by C h e ryl John ston

Coleman Davis has no plans to retire because his work brings so much joy. He started part-time at age 15, working in the Mulberry warehouse for Badcock Home Furniture. Both his parents worked there too. Today he owns the Badcock stores in Plant City and Zephyrhills, and coowns the Dade City store with his brother.

Coleman and his wife Sue married while in college, had two children, Laura Storter and Jamie Davis, and now are grandparents to Taryn and Hope. They serve our community through the Lions Club, South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation, First Baptist Church and many charitable outreaches in our town.

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FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 72

My aspiration: I hope to continue fulfilling my mission to help people. The good folks of Plant City have allowed me to serve them through Badcock and I want to maintain those strong, trusting relationships.

My inspiration: Naturally, God and family – to see them living successfully is rewarding.

The special needs adults and children who attend Florida Lions Camp also inspire me. Every summer they arrive with big smiles, big hearts, and a spirit of “I can.” Talk about encouragement – they make my year.

Why I’m a success: The W.S. Badcock family established its mission to serve people 104 years ago. In the fourth generation of this first retail store established 75+ years ago, loyal customers, faithful employees, great products, and the corporate philosophy to help humanity has sustained our business through every economic situation.

What’s next: With more than 250 combined years of experience in my staff, I know we will be here when our competition is gone. I want to continue honoring our customers by fulfilling their needs and exceeding their expectations.

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FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 73

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 here—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, parks—the infrastructure that makes our state a great place to live.

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 74

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 we’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, You’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 “Good Hands� 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

GET M ORE F OR YOUR HARD-EARN ED D OLLA R !

EXPER IENCE PL ANT C ITY’S UPSCALE SALO N & SPA

Openi ng Jul y 2008

813-759-GALA 1805 Jam e s Re d m a n Pk w y. , S u it e 2 0 1 (Betwe e n Au to Z o n e a n d P a y le s s )

I love you mom and thank you for all your love and support!

You are wesome!!!

Love Kenzie

Portia’s F o r M e n a n d Wo m e n w i t h S t y l e

M e n a n d Wo m e n ’s Clothing Lingerie, Shoes, and Accessories 11:00 A.M.- 7:00P.M. TUES-SAT

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 76

" *AMES , 2EDMAN 0KWY 0LANT #ITY &, s 813-659-1300

12:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M. SUN-MON

77

HOME GUIDE

97

This is a special advertising section

KELLER WILLIAMS WELCOMES OUR NEW TEAM LEADER/BROKER,

PATRICK THURMOND! PATRICK BRINGS A WEALTH OF NEW IDEAS AND LOTS OF ENTHUSIASM, ALONG WITH OVER A DECADE OF EXPERIENCE IN REAL ESTATE.

WE SPECIALIZE IN: BUYERS SELLERS RELOCATIONS PRE-FORECLOSURES SHORT SALES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT RENTALS WE BELIEVE REAL ESTATE IS A LOCAL SERVICE BUSINESS DRIVEN BY INDIVIDUAL REAL ESTATE AGENTS AND THEIR LOCAL IMAGE WITH THEIR CENTERS OF INFLUENCE AND CLIENT BASE. STOP IN AND SAY HELLO AND FIND OUT WHY KELLER WILLIAMS IS THE NUMBER ONE REAL ESTATE OFFICE IN PLANT CITY!

3 !LEXANDER 3TREET s 3UITE s

KEEP AN EYE ON EM!

2 Families OK! 1.33 ac, custom-built 3Bd/2Ba, 2330sf, FR, LR, DR & huge Bonus Rm. Huge country kitchen & 2 c garage. Recently remodeled 1000sf, CB-3Bd/1Ba & carport. A Family retreat or income producer! All for only $289,900. #75

STEAL THIS DEAL

You save on this this 3BD/2BA w/miles of tile, wood fence, 2 c gar, nearly 1600 SF, pre-foreclosure, vacant. $144,000. #43

BRING THE SWIM SUITS!

Sparkling pool w/deck, 1900SF, 3BD/2BA home on beautiful 1.20 ac. Large FR, huge kitchen w/ appliances. Dad’ll love work shop & garage w/RV parkiing. Priced at $165,000.#50

Enjoy Romantic Sunsets on 80 Acre Ski Lake

LET ME ENTERTAIN YOU!

SUNSHINE AND WINDCHIMES

RESTFUL RETREAT

BREAKS YOUR HEART!

PRE-FORECLOSURE-WALDEN LAKE-FLAWLESS INTERIOR

Lake Mango in Brandon. You will swell with pride when coming home to model perfect, 1820sq.ft.

3Bd/2Ba. Decorator touches thru out, all upgraded appliances including washer & dryer, gourmet kitchen w/42“ wood cabinetry, pantry, crown molding & impeccably maintained. A must see & priced to sell at $239,900. #57

Enjoy serenity in this 2Bd/2Ba home in gated section of Walden Lake. Home features 12-foot ceilings, master suite w/garden tub and large enclosed back lanai. $ 254,000. #8

TRANQUIL WATERFRONT SITE

Awaits you in this discriminating, immaculately cared for home. 2444 SF, 4BD/4BA with expansive LIV/DIN & gourmet kitchen. Enjoy Beautiful sc pool & lanai. A steal at $325,000. #82

Quality, custom features abound it 2637 SF, 3BD/2BA w/Den. Lg FM RM w/FRPL, sparkling pool & waterfall - your back yard paradise. Great value at $324,900. #52

SHORTSALE but what a deal! 2 dwellings Nostalgic 2 story 3Bd/1.5Ba, den & 2 FRPL and 4 unit Apt house! 2 lots all for $140,000.

Hurry! #73

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN PLANT CITY

1440 SF Retail space plus canopy & storage.

Ideally located w/ ample City parking, brick facade. New CH/A, newer roof. Make this your office or Shoppe. $249,900. #1

RENTALS:

ACREAGE AND COMMERCIAL:

RENTAL - $750.00 Month

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

WOW! 4 ACRES FOR $179,900!!

Maki Rd. 2Bd/1.5Ba Condo, 2 story, near Plant City High School. 1st Mo. and security.

LEASE:

$550.00 Mo. 1Bd/1Ba, Freshly painted, newly remodeled 2 story

HILDA’S HEAVENLY ACRES…

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

3/2, 2091 SF, located in desirable Forest Hammock. Separate LR, FR & DR. MB features tray ceilings, H & H closets, separate garden tub & shower. Plenty of room for parking and a steal at only $220,000.#76

CRAMPED QUARTERS NO MORE!

Nearly 4000 SF, 5Bd/3.5Ba home on 1.25 acres.

Need your imagination & skill to complete, some materials are included. Live in 3Bd/2Ba MH while completing your dream home, REDUCED to $249,000. #74

INDUSTRIAL SITE

Plant City 1.61+- acre, great Park Rd location easy on/off access to I-4, Lakeland, Tampa & Orlando. Zoned Light Industrial - Ideal site for manufacturing, processing plant, etc. REDUCED to $149,900. A great value! #44

ALEXANDER ST

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

TERRIFIC OPPORTUNITY FOR DEVELOPER -

10 acre tract can be developed w/8 units/acre or 5 duplexes per acre. Site recently annexed into City of Wauchula w/R-2 zoning and Low Residential Land Use. Call for details. Priced at only $225,000.#89

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

813-659-3306 www.vogelrealtyservices.com

Enjoy them both while sitting on patio of this 3Bd/2Ba Forest Park beauty w/nearly 1800 SF. Family friendly split floor plan offers convenient large open, fully equipped kitchen/Fm rm combo.

Warm wood laminate flooring & ceramic enhances floors. SELLER WILL CONSIDER LEASE OPTION/LEASE PURCHASE!! A Must See @ $234,900. #5

CRAWFORD-HILL I N T E R I O R

D E S I G N S ,

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POOL MASTERS

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CARPET • HARDWOOD WALLPAPER • FABRICS SHUTTERS • BLINDS

ARTWORK

VINYL • CERAMIC TILE

ACCESSORIES

CABINETS

COUNTERTOPS

813-754-6898 1407 E. Baker St., Plant City

3ALES 3ERVICE 2EPAIRS 3UPPLIES 3ALES 3ERVICE 2EPAIRS 3UPPLIES (OURS -ON 3AT AM PM

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FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 79

K Robert

E S T A B L I S H E D

irkland

Construction Inc.

Lic. #CBC 052263

16 YEARS QUALITY CONSTRUCTION

DON’T MOVE...IMPROVE!!

Before

After

(Adjacent to the main entrance of the hospital)

N Advanced Modern Technology N Cancer Care Close to Home

Additions

N Prostate Seed Implants

Commercial Barns

1205 E. Knights Griffin Rd. • Plant City, FL 33565

PH: 813.752.0881 • FAX: 813.719.6211

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 80

1 9 9 6

Plant City CANCER TREATMENT CENTER

Remodel

Residential

M A R C H

N Medicare, Medicaid, Most HMO’s N CT Simulation N 3-D Conformal Therapy N Intensity Modulated Radio Therapy N Breast Brachy Therapy

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

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

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

LITTLE ALAFIA CREEK ESTATES

Price Reduction! Owners Motivated! Entertain in comfort, huge open kitchen with Viking cook top, island, 42” cabinets, & walk in pantry. Breakfast area overlooks pool, and flows into the large family/great room. Great room is wired for surround sound and leads to the pool area through French doors. The house sits upon a huge one-acre lot, which is partially fenced for privacy. So many amenities to list: granite, ceramic tile throughout with carpet in bedrooms, water softener, built-in pest control system, office/study, inside laundry room and so much more. A gem of a property that will not last long. Offered at $329,000. MLS #T2294106. Call Malissa Crawford, (813) 967-0168.

COUNTRY HILLS 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with 1,704 square feet built in 1998.

Fenced yard, large screened patio, no back yard neighbors.

Sold as-is. Offered at $145,000. MLS #T2305416.

Call Jean Bridgmon, (813) 478-3107.

WILDER’S POND – REDUCED!

An absolutely FANTASTIC property! Home is less than 2 years old and constructed by one of Tampa Bay’s Top Custom Builders. 4 bedroom, 2 ½ bath home sits on nearly 3 acres of pristine fenced land, including your very own pond. As you drive up to the home on a long paved driveway, you’ll be impressed with the view from the very first glance. There are two 2 car garages, wood & ceramic tile flooring, crown molding, large kitchen, and formal dining room just off the foyer. The Great Room affords several views of the property, especially the pond. Horses welcome.

Offered at $515,435. MLS #T2304957. Call Ken Lawrence at (813) 716-0187.

Web: www.kenselzplantcityrealty.com

VITELLI ACRES Build the home of your dreams on this gorgeous 1.68 acre country home site. Situated between 2 beautiful newer homes, this exceptional property requires a minimum 2,000 Sq Ft home to be constructed (no mobile or manufactured homes). Located about a mile from I-4 with easy access and only minutes from downtown Plant City. Priced at $89,000.

MLS #T2253074. Call Janet Moore, (813) 751-9890.

HISTORIC HOME

Tastefully renovated historic home with loads of character and charm. Main home has 3 bedroom, 2.5 baths with 2,562 square feet. In-law apartment with 900 square feet has 1 bedroom, 1 bath, full kitchen and an office. All new electrical, plumbing and foundation. Original hard wood floors refinished in 2003. New roof on main house in 2004 and new detached garage with office, apartment and over 1,200 square feet of storage built in 2004. Renovated master bath in 2006. Totally new kitchen in 2007 with granite counter tops, cork flooring and all new appliances. Walk-in closets, inside laundry room, sunny Florida room and new platinum shutters in kitchen and dining. Above ground pool put in ground with wood decking and lighting along with concrete patio with gazebo for entertaining. Privacy fenced back yard. Circle drive with extra parking with beautiful flowing fountain. Offered at $310,000. MLS #T2318929.

Call Terry Sobzak, (813) 760-9573. or Lorrie Sobzak (813) 760-9574.

WOOTEN COUNTRY ACRES

RAULERSON ESTATES SOUTH

3 bedroom, 2 ½ bath home with an open floor plan with double entry leaded glass doors.

Formal living and dining rooms, large inside laundry room with built in ironing board. Gourmet kitchen with center island and double ovens for those big family gatherings. Sliding glass doors in family room open up to a refreshing screened in pool and lanai. Tray ceilings and crown molding give it that finishing touch. Central vacuum system, alarm system and a water softener are also included. In-wall pest control and 3/4” Styrofoam insulation are just some of the many upgrades. All this on 1.48 acres. Priced at $420,000.

MLS #T2320747. Call Terry Sobzak, (813) 760-9573. or Lorrie Sobzak (813) 760-9574.

ENJOY COUNTRY LIVING!

Country Livin’ - Big toys are welcome! New construction almost ready! 3 bedroom/ 2 bath/ 2 car side entry garage located on Cooper Road in Plant City. Private 1 acre plus lot with no HOA or deed restrictions. Pick your colors, ready in mid July. Offered at $239,900. MLS #T2311539.

Call Maddie Alford, (813) 382-8382 for address.

Over 2 1/2 acres of vacant land. High and dry! Electric, well and septic present. Satellite dish is also present. Fenced pasture. Livestock welcome. Previous manufactured home site. No deed restrictions or HOA’s. Offered at $149,900.

MLS #T2282505. Call Janet Moore, (813) 751-9890.

OAK AVENUE – REDUCED!

WEBB RANCH ACRES – KNIGHTS GRIFFIN – REDUCED!

This 3 bedroom, 2 ½ bath home was built in 1915 in Beautiful Plant City, steps away from the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds. From the original wood floors, 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. The kitchen has a bar/counter for a quick snack, and a 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. Offered at $274,985. MLS #T2298290. Call Ken Lawrence at (813) 716-0187.

Web: www.kenselzplantcityrealty.com

PINE LAKE

Great Value in Mulberry! 3BR/2BA/2CG - 1,682 square foot home on almost 1/2 acre lot. Once inside you’ll pass through archways from the foyer to enter a formal living/dining room. The arched doorway in dining room opens to kitchen, which has plenty of storage space, ceramic tile floors, and a window that looks out over the fenced backyard. The family room is adjacent to kitchen, separated by breakfast bar. Through sliding glass doors you enter the Florida room, which is covered and enclosed with both screen and windows, and overlooks backyard. The large backyard has a utility shed. Additionally, the covered porch extends the length of the home. The master bedroom has an adjoining bathroom w/shower. A large laundry room sits off the kitchen, and allows access to the side entry garage, which comes with door opener.

No HOA fees. Offered at $160,000. MLS T2319842. Call Janet Moore, (813) 751-9890.

Country estate just outside beautiful Plant City. This 4/4/3 was constructed in 2005 by a custom builder and sits on 3.39 acres including a half acre pond with fish. The remainder is pasture, waiting for your animals, including horses. There is also a large metal building on concrete. The interior has every conceivable convenience, including a separate entrance one bedroom apartment above the garage with its own kitchen and living room. Oh! We almost forgot the pool/spa with cage and heated by propane. This property has a 150’ deep spring fed well, and the water is also chlorinated and softened before it comes out of the tap. Welcome to rural life in Florida, minutes from the interstate. Offered at $549,985.

MLS #T2317599. Call Ken Lawrence at (813) 716-0187. Web: www.kenselzplantcityrealty.com

HAMPTON PLACE/WALDEN LAKE

Immaculate 4BR/3BA/3CG home on Golf Course, Par 5. This beautiful home opens through a double entry doorway into a formal living & dining room with crystal chandeliers. Some of the features include tray ceilings, remote control dimmer switches, formal columns, archways and niches. A split floor plan provides coveted privacy.

Master bedroom has sitting area, his/hers walk-in closets & a master bath with double vanities, separate shower & garden tub. Two screened lanai’s invite outdoor activities.

The kitchen provides solid surface counter tops & the open floor plan extends into the family room. Priced to sell, must see to appreciate. Offered at $359,900.

MLS #T2297401. Call Janet Moore, (813) 751-9890.

Call us for your Residential and Commercial Real Estate needs

1513 Jim Redman Parkway, Plant City

813-754-3586 www.floridamoves.com

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

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

1804 W. Reynolds St. Plant City, FL 33563

(Next to Brown’s Florist)

813-752-1960 SARAH ZELLER-BADAT

ion

at serv

Con

Lot

GATED COMMUNITY!! Wonderful townhome!! This is a place anyone would love to call home. Close to shopping, I-75, Crosstown and Macdill AFB, it offers easy access to a multitude of shopping, entertainment and restaurants. With 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, it is ideal for anyone. Great price at $135,000.

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

Don’t miss the chance to have one of the best Walden Lake has to offer. This true 5 bedroom, 4 bath home also has a roomy office/den with its own private bath that leads outside. Situated on a spacious conservation lot, this home is ready for a large family. From the freshly painted interior and tasteful decorating to the amazing floor plan, this place is one you will love to call home. Call Sarah today for details. 349,000

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 82

Don’t let the low price fool you. This is a great 3/2.5 home with a wonderful screened in porch, fenced backyard and great floorplan.

Just a little TLC could make this home perfect for anyone!! Call today for a showing. 155,000.00

Janet Calvello 813-967-1939 RealtorÂŽ

Becky Bowdish 813-376-2100 Property Manager/Realtor

ÂŽ

Jayne Rawnsley 813-763-0495 RealtorÂŽ

Barbara Layton 813-967-1937 RealtorÂŽ

Brenda Salyers 813-230-1120 RealtorÂŽ

Carol Brassart 813-918-4248 RealtorÂŽ

David Scruggs 813-695-2035 RealtorÂŽ

Sue Daniels 813-751-4035 RealtorÂŽ

Terri Caroll 813-508-1957 RealtorÂŽ

SALES DIVISION - FULL SERVICE REAL ESTATE COMPANY

“LAUREL LAKE single family home / condo in gated community within Walden Lake. Excellent condition. 2 bedrooms plus Den/ Office and a 10X18 Florida Room. Split bedrooms, 2 car garage.

Golf course community, Walking Trails. Seller Very Motivated.

Bring all reasonable offers! $239,000 Call Jayne Rawnsley at 813-763-0495�

GREAT 4 BDRM HOUSE REDUCED TO $197,000. WHAT A DEAL. 18�

TILE THRU LIVING AREAS & bATHS, LAMINATE WOOD FLOOR IN ONE BEDROOM, OTHERS ARE CARPETED. MASTER HAS WALK IN CLOSET, GARDEN TUB, SEPARATE WALK IN SHOWER. NEW ROOF, NEW APPLIANCES, MUST SEE.PRISTINE CONDITION, MOVE RIGHT IN. CALL JANET CALVELLO 813-967-1939

FOR Lease A great home in Walden Lake offers 4br/3 ba with family room open to the kitchen,formal dining and living.Over looks water. Lawn care plus pest control will be included with the rent. All this for $ 1575 a month. Call Terrie Caroll (813-508-1957)

Walden Lake East Looking for a pool home for the kids this summer then this is it. A home that offers 3br/2ba Great room with 2 sets of sliding glass doors open to a screen porch and hot tub and of course the pool. Open Kitchen with all the appliances. Fenced yard.Must see this home at a great price of just $163,500. Call Becky Bowdish 813-376-2100)

LOVELY VIEWS from this 3Bed/2Bath home. COMPLETELY RENOVATED. Large DECK and DOCK with 10,000LB BOAT LIFT overlooking DEEP WATER. Open floor plan, Large Kitchen, Fireplace in Living area with Wonderful Views!

Must see this one.

Call Carol Brassart 813-918-4248

3BED/3BATH with 3226sf; two master suites, built 2006. Room for additional bedrms. 2car garage & 3 car carport with enclosed 10x30 workshop on more than an acre. $430,000 Make offer! Call or email Brenda Salyers 813-230-1120 HotProperty@Live.com

IMMACULATE 4 BEDROOM/ 2 BATH 2361 sq. ft. home with sparkling pool. Family room has fireplace and looks out onto the large screened lanai and pool. Kitchen has new appliances and cabinets have been refinished with a eat in area and adjacent formal dining room. Home has decorator tile and has been well maintained. It is on a corner lot with a fenced in back yard. This is a beautiful home and in move in condition.

Call Barbara Layton (813) 967-1937 for more information

MAXIMUM ENJOYMENT. 2/2 home in deed restricted community for 55 & older. 27 hole golf course, tennis courts, 2 swimming pools, 3 clubhouses, 26 indoor shuffleboard courts. NOT a rental park. Own you lot.

Home completely furnished including linens and dishes. 12’ x 30’ garage with separate golf cart door and 12’x39’ carport. REALTOR owned. $129,900. Sue Daniels @ (813) 751-4035.

Medical space across the street from Brandon Humana Hospital. Currently setup with 3 exam rms, 2 restrooms, several walk in storage, 1 ofc, Lab, Recept area and Wtg room. For Lease at $1600 per month.

Call David Scruggs at 813-695-2035

IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD NOW

KW Property Management Services Call Us For All Your Real Estate Needs

813-759-0002

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

Nate Kilton REALTOR®

(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 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.

HAVE THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

Quiet country living close to shopping and dining. This property sits on 5 wooded acres and is only 3.5 miles to Fishhawk, 10 miles to Plant City, and 1.5 miles to Aldermans Ford Park. This home has 2,450 sq. ft., four bedrooms, four bathrooms, pool and spa, and stone woodburning fireplace. New roof within past five years.

Asking $475,000

RESIDENTIAL LOTS IN HISTORIC DISTRIC Three residential lots available. Buildable lots in this part of the Historic District of Plant City are not available very often. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by.

$

199 MOVES YOU IN Village at Park Road

1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Luxury Apartment Homes Features: Full size washer/dryer connections

LOCALLY OWNED OPERATED TIMOTHY W. TEW P.L.S. OWNER/PRESIDENT

City t n a l P s w o n k o h “W ” s l a c o L e h t n a h t better Did you know you can choose your Surveyor when Re-Financing!!!!

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 84

Breakfast area in most floor plans High-speed internet access • 9 foot ceilings 24 hour fitness center • Car care center Gated community • Detached garages available Pet friendly • 7-12 month leases 1 mile from I-4

2120 Village Park Road ~ Plant City 813.719.1850 ~ www.Gables.com Mon.-Fri. 9-6 ~ Sat. 10-5

Reduced rates for a limited time only!

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FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 85

homes homeguide

su bmitted by n atali e sw e et

Walden Lake Review June 16–There was a tree planted in the park in honor of Eileen O’Leary, a long-time board member who recently passed away.

The Board discussed the roads in Walden Lake at the end of Griffin and Trapnell. The city views the roads as cul-de-sacs, and the Master Association is responsible for approximately 800-to-900 feet of those roads. There is concern that with the price of asphalt increasing, there may not be enough money in reserve if the roads need repair. Additional funds from the dues will be directed into the reserve to cover future expenses for those roads.

Secretary Marlene Merrin gave a report regarding the enforcement of covenants in the neighborhoods that the Master Association is overseeing. Between May and June, there were 93 first violation notices and 14 second violation notices mailed to residents. Merrin is handling six communities and expecting four additional communities within Walden Lake

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 86

to take advantage of the Master Association’s handling of the enforcement of their covenants.

Overall, most residents are complying with the notices quickly.

The Board recommends that you use trash bags rather than trashcans for trash pick up. The trashcans can become a hazard and can cause accidents as they blow around on the streets after the trash is picked up. If trashcans are used, then please take them in as quickly as possible after the trash has been picked up.

Recently, there was a turnaround added in Walden Oaks for mail pick up, which was graveled. It seems it is too short for more than one vehicle. Walden Oaks has requested that the area be made long enough to accommodate two vehicles and for the turnaround to be paved.

The Board voted to put $1,500 aside for that to be done pending city approval.

According to Steve Mercer of the Walden Lake

Golf & Country Club, there is quite a bit of activity at the club! The tennis courts are being resurfaced with two of the courts being clay.

The fitness center, pool area and the banquet rooms are being remodeled. The fitness center will be expanded and have new equipment.

A smoothie bar will be located in the fitness center, and the bar will be open to the public.

There is lots of work being done on the course, traps and tee boxes. They are revamping the range and practice greens. All of this will take approximately 60 days to complete.

The Walden Lake Golf & Country Club is an important part of our community. Now is the time to join! The club is waiving initiation fees until the remodeling and construction is completed. For information on membership dues, you can call the club at 813-752-1171. Michelle Newsome is the new director of sales. She asks that if you are interested in holding an event or golf tournament at the club, then please contact her at extension 222.

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 87

Courtney and her Team are proud to announce their

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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! $439,900 Call Natalie for your personal tour 758-9586.

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. $395,000. Call Natalie Today to see this BEAUTY! 758-9586

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Fabulous 2 story home with formal & family areas. Enjoy entertaining around the pool/spa and enormous yard. $347,500 Call Natalie 813-758-9586

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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. $299,500 Call Natalie 758-9586.

Upgraded 3/2/2 Pool home on quite street with no backyard neighbors. Beautiful view from the knoll the home rests on to enjoy cookouts & the gazebo by the pool. This house is move in ready-all it needs is you! $224,500.

Call Cathy at 376-0891.

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!

CHARMING WALDEN LAKE HOME

GREAT HOME CLOSE TO EVERYTHING

WALDEN LAKE FOR $165,000!

3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Home with Great Room floor plan features beautiful wood floors, designer master bath, screened lanai and peaceful back yard setting. Priced to sell at $184,900. Call Natalie 813-758-9586.

BUNGALOW IN HEART OF PLANT CITY

3 Bedroom home with over 1300 square feet of living area featuring large living and dining rooms, fenced back yard on a brick street close to everything. $159,900. Call Natalie 813-758-9586.

3 Bedroom, 2 Bath w/out deed restrictions in quiet neighborhood. Almost 1800 sq’ w/over sized screed patio w/brick pavers & heated spa. Large in town lot. $182,000 Call Natalie Sweet 758-9586.

Charming 3 bedroom 2 bath home with great room & 2 car garage on beatiful corner lot. Enjoy the screened lanai and the front porch with swing. Don’t let the price fool you, this is a great home! Call Angel 546-9863.

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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

Don’t let the price fool you! Wonderful 3 bedroom, 2 bath home on a nice lot in quiet location. Formal Living & Dining Rooms plus Family Room with Fireplace. Screened porch and Pool w/large deck. Call Angel 813-546-9863

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DO IT NOW!

sub m it t e d by n at e dav i s

Most Common Mistakes

When Preparing to Buy a Home part 2 of 2 4 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Making new purchases.

You want to avoid adding any new monthly debt when you are applying for financing. This can have an adverse impact on your loan application in at least two ways. For starters, when you apply for financing you typically have your credit pulled which can have a negative impact on your credit scores. You want to have the best score possible when applying for what usually is the biggest debt you will ever have. A new purchase will also add a new monthly payment, which can impact your debt to income ratio. Generally speaking, the lower your debt to income ratio, the better your loan file looks. I have had cases where a customer will come to my office to apply for a loan that we previously spoke about over the phone and pull up in a brand new vehicle he just bought that day! To make a long story short, he no longer qualified for the loan we had talked about.

PS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; This also applies to those â&#x20AC;&#x153;12 months, no paymentâ&#x20AC;? deals.

5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Shopping for loans over the internet.

While this seems like a statement you would expect to hear from someone who is afraid of competition, I encourage you to read the reasons for my suggestion. There are numerous sites on the web that advertise they get the best deal for you, or that they guarantee the best deal. In an ideal and honest world, this would be nice. The problem is that what usually appears as a mortgage website can sometimes be a lead generation website. Basically the site collects your information, and then sells your data to hundreds of other brokers as a lead. The unknowing customer will then get roughly 400,000 calls in the next 2 days. This tends to be a miserable experience for the customer. The other problem with a few of these websites is that the companies that participate these sites will run your credit with each lender they want to quote you with. After a few companies â&#x20AC;&#x153;competeâ&#x20AC;? for your business, you could easily have 50 credit pulls over time and thus lower your score. I know this because I have spoken with the poor souls who attempted that process. The said they still hear phones ringing off the hook in their worst nightmares.

It is always best to consult a mortgage planner to discuss your plans and options well in advance of your purchase. This will ensure you get the best deal.

Are you ready to remodel or add on?

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If you have any specific mortgage related questions, please feel free to email your questions to Nate@PlantCityMortgages.com

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FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ july 15 - august 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 92

Nate Davis â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Home Loan Specialist â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 813.763.3910

Randall & Kathleen Wainoris

Team Wainoris...Selling Plant City and Lakeland

REALTOR® / Attorney at Law

Multi-Million Dollar Producer

REALTOR® / Notary

PLANT CITY CIRCA 1900

Charming two story turn of the century colonial. 4 bedrooms, 2 baths with new roof and a/c. Home has been completely rewired with a totally remodeled kitchen. Large corner lot with beautiful mature trees and detached garage. Reduced to only $225,000

CHARLESTON WOODS 4 bedroom, 3 bath, golf course pool home on private gated street. Over 3200 ft.

Additional den/office plus large game room. Huge covered pool area with outdoor bar. Gourmet island kitchen with granite counters and stainless steel appliances. Reduced to $449,000

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

863-688-2822

TOLL FREE: 888-488-2822 • FAX 813-659-0196

BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY HOME This 4 bedroom home on over 1 acre in the Cork area has every upgrade: 10 ft ceilings, granite kitchen & baths, crown molding throughout, 8 ft doors, 18 SEER A/C, and much more. Large flat back yard w/pole barn too! Asking just $374,000.

WATERFRONT POOL HOME Beautiful 4 bedroom home is nestled on a quiet gated street in the Wedgewood golf community, directly on Lake Gibson in Lakeland. Huge gourmet kitchen with wood cabinets and granite counters. Large wrap around deck overlooking pool and lake. Asking $499,000.

PLANT CITY MARKET UPDATE

by Randall Wainoris, JD, MBA ARE WE THERE YET? WATERFRONT PROPERTY

Beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home directly on Lake Parker. Property includes fishing pier and boat ramp. Large F/R, L/R w/ fireplace. Huge deck overlooking water. Reduced to $274,000.

LAKELAND 3 BEDROOM CONDO

Completely renovated 3 bed 2 1/2 bath Lake Bentley condo. Drastic price reduction: only $109,900!

Whether you are talking around the the water cooler, reading the local news head lines, or just listening to the radio, everyone seems to have an opinion about the real estate market. There are as many “experts” as there are opinions; and to be honest, no one really knows the answer. Surely, if any of these purported “experts” really knew when the market has hit “bottom,” they would probably not tell you and me; but rather, they would quietly begin buying all of the real estate they could!

I do know a few things; Real estate is local. I also know that the market conditions in California or New York really don’t really matter too much to us in our own local market. Statistics from both the Greater Tampa Association of Realtors and Lakeland Association of Realtors indicate that average selling prices INCREASED from April 2008 - May 2008. Does this mean that we are there yet?.......maybe!

CARE FREE LIVING

Immaculate 2 bed/2 bath Lakeland condo.

Private back yard, covered parking.

Reduced to sell at just $124,900.

ADORABLE!

Adorable 2 bedroom/2 bath on quiet Lakeland street. Very open floor plan with volume ceilings. Reduced to just $99,900!

BRING THE HORSES

Beautiful 4 bed, 2 bath home on 4.14 fenced acres. Large country kitchen, huge wood deck, pool, 4 stall barn w/ electric & water, tack shed and wash rack. Asking just $229,950.

GREAT STARTER HOME

Wonderful starter home in Lake Gibson School district. Very open plan with volume ceilings, plant shelves and large bedrooms.

Asking just $142,000

Now a little bit of math: if your 200k home lost 15% in value last year, you theoretically lost $30,000. However, lets just say that you are ready to move up and buy what was a 300k home. That home also lost 15% last year, or about $45,000. Thus, if you sell your home and feel bad about the $30,000 you lost; remember, the new home you are buying is now $45,000 less...so the declining market of the last 2 years actually benefits you by $15,000!

Have you been thinking about buying, but were afraid that you could not afford to move because your home has lost value or that it won’t sell? Stop worrying, we can help! Interest rates are still low, and remember; any market value loss you may have realized in your current home will be offset on your next home! In fact, here at Team Wainoris, sales have been so brisk that we have been selling our listings faster then we can get more! Thinking of buying or selling? Please call Team Wainoris today to see how we can help you! *Please consult your tax advisor for your individual tax considerations.

Exit Realty is Growing WWW.TEAMWAINORIS.COM

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Are We There Yet?

riding with the ups and downs So, remember last month I commented on the fact that the price of EVERYTHING is going up â&#x20AC;&#x201C; EXCEPT home prices? I hear the media even commenting on the relentless downward trend of home prices. Crazy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s true, however at different degrees, depending on the location.

In my opinion (you didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ask, but Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m giving it anyway), prices in the Plant City area may have already reached the tipping point, or bottom. As you look at prices here in Plant City, some properties are absolutely a great buy and are usually under contract within 30 days. Many real estate experts agree that as buyers begin making the commitment to buy and the market begins to stabilize, that, in general, so goes the rest of the economy. It is still a buyerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s market and buyers are taking advantage of every bit while it lasts.

Here are some interesting averages for the Plant City market: â&#x20AC;˘ As of May, there were 544 homes for sale (not including For Sale By/Buy Owner) â&#x20AC;˘ In May, 26 properties were sold â&#x20AC;˘ There were 50 properties that went under contract â&#x20AC;˘ Average ACTIVE Price: $261,000 â&#x20AC;˘ Average SOLD Price: $192,000 â&#x20AC;˘ Year-to-Date, the Average Price per Square Foot (heated): $108.00 The better news is this: the month of May showed the second highest average sold price since January, and, the highest number of contracts written since January. The average active/list price of $261,000 was the LOWEST so far this year.

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FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ july 15 - august 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 94

*Economic Indicators forecast (Tampa Bay area) existing home sales to increase; housing affordability will continue to improve; and employment and economic growth should see a recovery in the second half.

Are we there yet? Are we there yet? *Sources: NAR, Bureau of the Census, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Freddie Mac and the Mortgage Bankers Association.

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Paula Davis Meyers 813-967-1942 Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice.

Standard features may vary per ďŹ&#x201A;oor plan and community.

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FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ july 15 - august 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 95

RENEE CORZINE KELLER WILLIAMS

Realtor

$140,000 NEARLY NEW!

$209,900 JUST LIKE A MODEL

$185,000 GORGEOUS SUNSETS OVER POND

$86,000 CHARMING

3/2/2, 1689 SF, 2006 Built, Great 3/2/2, 1704 SF, Vaulted Ceilings, 4/2/2, 1924 SF, Scrnd Pool, Conser- 2/1, 816 SF, New Kitchen, Tile, Scrnd Lanai, Fenced, Corner Lot vation, Wood Floors, LR/DR and FR Privacy Fenced, Cul-de-Sac Rm, 3-Way Split, Huge Kitchen

$167,500 TWO-STORY ON AN ACRE 3/2.5 on 1 acre, 2064 SF, Bonus Rm/Den, Fireplace, Fenced, 20â&#x20AC;&#x2122;x12â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Utility Shed

$150,000 FOUR BEDROOMS

4/2/2, 2014 SF, Scrnd Lanai Bonus Rm, Fenced, Fireplace,Cul-de-sac

$331,900 PARADISE FOUND! 5/3/3, 2787 SF, 2006 Built, Bonus Rm,1 acre, 32â&#x20AC;&#x2122;x18â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Scrnd Lanai, In-Law Suite

Multi-Million Dollar Producer

813-716-6007

rcorzine@tampabay.rr.com

3 !LEXANDER 3TREET s 3UITE s

ROOM TO ROAM 13.5 acres fenced & cross-fenced w/8 stall barn w/water & electric, tack & feed room & pond. Property includes 4 BR/3.5 BA ranch style home with remodeled kitchen, fireplace and so much more to offer! Priced right at $749,848. MLS#T2311859. #077

GO BACK IN TIME

This gorgeous historical 2-story home was built in 1908 and has since been restored to all its classic glory, but with a modern appeal. Home feat. 5 BR/3 BA, over 3800 SF, fireplace, security system, formal dining, etc.- you have to see to believe! Sit. on the brick streets of the historic district, this home is more than words can say! $569,000. MLS#T2316824. #035

JUST LIKE NEW Beautiful 3 Bedroom/2 Bath, 2-story home sits on 1 acre & built in 2005 w/lots of custom upgrades. Home features 2500+ SF living, wood floors, alarm system, surround sound & a bonus room waiting for your special touch. So much to offer & a convenient location! NOW $349,900. MLS#T2311845. #061

CONTRACT PENDING

FAMILY NEIGHBORHOOD

BRING THE HORSES

Classic 2 BR/2BA cottage situated on 2+ acres w/beautiful grandfather oaks. Home features 1300+ SF living, newer baths, bonus room, oversized scr. lanai, new siding plus a detached garage w/workshop & storage area.

Offered at $199,900. MLS#T2316553. #032

3 BR/2 BA brick home in great subdivision and sits on a shady 1/2 acre corner lot. Home has over 2300 SF living, brick fireplace and lots of room for entertaining. Offered at $249,500. MLS#T2313351. #078

3 bedroom, 4 bath with over 3000 SF living and situated on 3 acres of secluded property. Includes 30x50 barn and board fencing making it ideal for horses. Offered at $475,000. MLS#T2306811. #042

CONVENIENT TO EVERYTHING

READY TO BUILD

BRING YOUR FAMILY

3 bedroom, 2 bath home with fresh paint, new carpet and new appliances. Home has over 1250 SF living, split plan, volume ceilings and is priced to sell for a quick move-in.

Now only $175,750. MLS#T2291455. #016

2+ acre parcel with grandfather oaks and small pond on the property. Your new home would be a perfect fit - mobile homes OK. Offered at $75,000.

MLS#T2270664. #313

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. PLUS mobile home that is 4 BR/2 BA. Offered at $325,000. MLS#T2184026. #058

Dedicated to the Value of Home & Family

Jimmie Robinson

813-754-3586 ext 222 www.ďŹ&#x201A;oridamoves.com/jimmie.robinson E-mail: Jimmie.Robinson@floridamoves.com toll free

1-877-442-7001

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

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

sports & fitness sports

Story by Joe Bow l es / Pi c tu res Cou rtesy of Ja n e C ason

send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Good Night to a Special Man Plant City’s first National All American When I was young, a big man played ball with us everyday at Bryan Elementary School’s summer recreation program. I really didn’t know much about him, other than he was married to Mrs. Cason, a third grade teacher. I knew he was a special person, but I didn’t know how special until Fred “Buddy” Cason died May 8th.

Buddy met his future wife Jane Anderson in the seventh grade. He sat behind her in homeroom.

He was attracted to her, but she wasn’t impressed with him. By the time they reached the ninth grade, Buddy’s charm must have changed her opinion, because she became his date to the 9th grade banquet. He bought her an orchid and insisted there was a rule that went something like this, “whenever a girl gets her first orchid from a boy, she has to kiss the boy.” Jane replied, “You can have your orchid back.”

Buddy and Jane married on August 11, 1953.

Nearly fifty-five years later, Jane said good night to Buddy for the last time as he died in

his sleep of congestive heart failure. Buddy was a winner.

He not only won the heart of his wife, but he was a winner in other areas as well. He was especially successful at sports.

Buddy lettered in four sports at Plant City High School: football, baseball, track, and golf.

In 1950, Buddy scored five touchdowns against Fort Myers as Plant City captured its first South Florida Conference championship. Cason was then invited to Memphis, Tennessee to play in the East-West High School All Star game and promptly scored the winning touchdown. Cason was also named as Plant City’s first National High School All American in football.

After a year of prep school, Buddy was awarded a scholarship to the University of All American at the Florida and played in the inauUniversity of Tampa 1959 gural Gator Bowl. Following his sophomore year, he joined the Navy during the Korean War. When he returned home, Buddy was offered a football scholarship to the University of Tampa where he punted, kicked and played fullback. In 1959, he was named to the Division II All American team.

According to his wife, Buddy often spent time with troubled youth bringing them home with him as he tried to steer them in the right direction.

“He was a gentle man with an infectious laugh who enjoyed the company of other people.

He was a people person. He was active in his church, he made sacrifices to go on mission trips, he worked with the Seminole Indians, he was a volunteer probation officer, and he was a wonderful example to his sons, Steven and Richard. He was a good man.

He loved God and he loved others,” Jane reminisced.

Those around Buddy knew he was special, not because of what he did on the field, but because of what he did with his life. He will be missed… was special… and now we know why.

Following graduation, he was offered a contract by the Chicago White Sox to play baseball, but instead accepted the offer of the New York Giants to play football. With a wife and two boys at home, Buddy grew tired of the lifestyle of the professional athlete and returned home before he played the first game.

Buddy and wife Jane were married nearly 55 years

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 98

Buddy and Jane became educators. Both retired after careers in the public school system. But Buddy was more than an athlete or an educator.

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sports & fitness athleteofthemonth

Story and Photo by Holly M all al i eu

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Travis Hippler Although summer has finally rolled around, bringing with it the conclusion of another year of high school sports, and the end of the sports season, the large number of talented high school athletes have not lost any of their exceptional qualities and abilities. On the contrary, summer vacation presents the prime opportunity to highlight those that may not have been squeezed in during the school year, albeit not for lack of athletic merit. Take Travis Hippler, an upcoming senior at Plant City High School and an active member of the Raider baseball team continuously since he started as a freshman.

The game of baseball is far from new to Hippler.

Now 17, he has been playing for one team or another since he was around 5 years old. Like many others, Plant City little league launched his interest and growing talent in the sport. He started out on the JV team for PCHS as a freshman, but was soon moved up to varsity. He has played in many areas with a traveling baseball team over the past two years, as well.

Hippler’s position for the Raiders has been as a left fielder, however next year he will be playing center field. He has been a very important part of the team since he made the cut as a 9th grader, both for his amiable personality and athletic skill (this past year his batting average was a 270). The high school team has a summer league in which Hippler also participates, meeting two times per week for games at a variety of locations.

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 100

Travis Hippler with Knotts Team Sports Sponsors Andy and Jeannie Knotts

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sports & fitness sports

Story by Joe Bow l es P i ctures by Ro d M aso n, Paula delVall e, a n d Ap r i l Me ssi ck

send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

The Angels recently captured the season championship in Plant City Little League’s Minors Division (9-10 yrs.) with a record of 17-2-1. The Angels along with the Indians qualified for participation in District IV’s Tournament of Champions and ended up meeting in the championship game. The Angels took first place and the Indians captured second place.

Spencer Nelson (Indians), Chris Gosselin (Angels), and Chelsea Baker (Angels) all hit home runs during the tournament.

Other members of the Angels are: Nick Koester, Colin Allman, Caleb Eisenmenger, Wesley Tanner, Ryan Long, Jacob Cothren, Chris Macca, and Benji Padgett. The Angels are coached by Chad Allman, Rod Mason, and Keith Gosselin.

In Plant City Little League’s Junior Division (13-15 yrs.) The Mets captured the regular season championship with a record of 14-4. The Marlins won the city tournament by defeating the Athletics 9-8. The Mets and the Marlins both qualified for the Tournament of Champions held June 6-13 against nine other Polk County teams. The Mets defeated Lake Wales 11-1, Lakeland City Orange 17-4, and North Lakeland American 11-1 to advance to the championship game. The Marlins lost the first game against North Lakeland National 4-3, but advanced in the losers bracket to the championship game with wins over Auburndale 7-0, Lakeland City Orange 13-0, and North Lakeland American 6-5. Because the Marlins advanced through the losers bracket, they needed to defeat the Marlins twice. In the first game the Marlins defeated the Mets 9-3, but the Mets claimed the championship with an 8-6 victory over the Marlins. Members of the Mets are; Ethan Locke, A.J. delValle, Evan Bowles, Ricky Lara, Travis Cannoles, Sebastian Ray, Kenneth Floyd, Taylor Schulte, Josh Harrelson, Michael Wilson, Michael Hash, and Cody Smith. The Mets are coached by Joe Bowles, Ken Floyd, and Rick Lara.

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 102

Juniors Mets win Tournament of Champions

Three Plant City Machine Pitch All Star teams had strong showings in the recent Lakeland Highlands Tournament. After previously capturing the Eagle Lake Tournament, the Plant City Bulldogs, coached by Bulldogs win Lakeland Highlands Minors Angels take T.J. Messick, Tate WhatAll Star Tournament Tournament of Champions ley, and Casey Christian also took first place in the Lakeland Highlands Basketball: Dale Chambers, head basketball Tournament A Division. After winning both coach for the Plant City Raiders, will conduct pool games, the Bulldogs defeated Eagle Lake a basketball camp July 21-24 from 8:00 AM to A 15-0, South Brandon A 13-3, Ridge Dundee A 3:00 PM at the Plant City High School Gym. 12-2, and Lakeland Highlands in the championCamp is for ages 7-15 and the cost per camper ship game. Team members are Chase Lawson, is $75.

Matt Mashburn, Tate Whatley, Jonny Ontiveros, Hunter Maxwell, Zack Ford, Parker Messick, Softball: Heidi Kouveras, head softball coach Cody Ginther, Bryar Christian, Christian Laird, for the Plant City Raiders, will conduct camps Jacob Smith, and Cade Shissler. The Plant City at Plant City High School for pitchers and Cobras captured first place in the B division, catchers on August 8 (2:00 PM- 6:00 PM) and and the Plant City Warriors came in second August 9 (10:00 AM- 3:00 PM). Camp is for place. ages 9-14 and the cost per camper is $65.

The Plant City Parks and Recreation Department will be sponsoring the following sports camps this summer for area youth.

For more information contact Larry Langston at 813-659-4200 ext 4302 or llangston@plantcitygov.com

Dr. Brenda Dukes Chiropractic Physician

Share some about chiropractic and ear infectionsâ&#x20AC;Ś

Ear infections are very common for young boys and girls.

These infections, usually of the middle ear, are called otitis media. They can be very painful and eventually result in permanent hearing loss. Some children suffer from recurrent ear infections, indicating that these infections are merely a symptom of a larger problem.

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The middle ear drains through the Eustachian tube that runs from the middle ear to the back of the throat. The misalignment of the upper cervical vertebrae can affect the middle ear. This may block up the Eustachian tube because the middle ear does not drain when the upper vertebrae in the spine move improperly. Since the middle ear remains moist, bacteria and viruses begin to grow and lead to ear infection. Chiropractic adjustments to the neck and upper back help restore proper motion to the vertebrae. This relieves nerve interference and allows drainage of the Eustachian tube. Once the nerve problem is eliminated, the body can effectively fight the ear infection.

Call today for your Digital Pulse Scan for cardiovascular screening. Also, a Foot Scan for proper spinal stabilization.

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

FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ july 15 - august 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 103

sports & fitness sherrynueesch

submit ted by sh erry nu eesch

FOR LIFE That is the Greek translation for the word probiotics. They have been around a long time. Listening to some advertisers you would think it’s something newly discovered.

The best way to define probiotics is, they are the healthy, friendly bacteria living in your gut. An estimated 100 trillion micro organisms representing more than 500 species inhabit every normal, healthy bowel. It has been estimated that there are more microbial cells in the body than human cells. Since we have so many of them they must be pretty important, they are.

Probiotics are a very important part of the digestive process. They help us breakdown our food and release the vitamins and minerals contained in our food. Healthy balances of good bacteria have huge health benefits. Some of them being: enhancing bowel function, lowers cholesterol, reduces inflammation, lowers blood pressure, improves nutrient absorption, prevents colon cancer and supports the immune system. According to Harvard, 70% of the body’s immunity is based on the digestive system.

In addition to probiotics we need prebiotics. Prebiotics are nondigestible food that makes its way through our digestive system and help the good bacteria flourish and grow. Prebiotics that feed the beneficial bacteria mostly come from carbohydrate fibers that do not get digested. They are called oligosaccharides. That’s the last time I am going to spell that! The fibers come from fruit, legumes and whole grains. Seems like beans, beans good for the heart, is also good for the gut.

So where do we get this good bacteria so critical to optimum health? Fermented dairy products like yogurt and kefir are the most popular. For hundreds of years cultured dairy products have been touted for their health benefits and scientific studies supports their claims. In her book “Bacteria for Breakfast” Dr. Kelly Karpa says, “Fermented milk products which contain probiotics have been used

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 104

for centuries”. According to Persian tradition, Abraham of the Old Testament owed his longevity to ingestion of fermented milk. So you see this probiotic stuff is not new.

Sales of probiotics have tripled in recent years. Modern diets and lifestyles have led to a decline in healthy bacteria in our guts. There are several causes of this. Using a round of antibiotics destroys the good as well as the bad bacteria. Unless you are buying organic, your meat and chicken is full of antibiotics. Chlorinated water destroys the good as well as the bad bacteria. Radiation and chemotherapy as well as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are also destructive to intestinal flora.

It is soooo important to get probiotics on a daily basis. Cultured milk products are good. Taking supplements help. Do your research. Another great source is the Kombucha that I wrote about last month. I ordered my mushroom from Kombuchaamerica.com and I have mastered the art of making my own cultured soft drink. Fritz and I both love it. It is loaded with millions of good bacteria and it is cheap to make. As Hippocrates said, “Let food be your medicine and let medicine be your food.” As always to your optimum health.

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local history didyouknow

submit ted by P l ant City Photo A rch i ves

send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Gladys Prevatt Jeffcoat A Pioneer Who Did it Her Way Gladys Marie Prevatt came into the world, March 10, 1925, destined to be a woman who did it her way. She was a tom-boy, climbed trees, roller skated around the old Burney School in its early years, and played virtually every sport, including “swattum ball”. Gladys played tennis and remembers buying her first tennis racquet from John Fred Germany for fifty-cents, but then having to seek someone to play against since girls didn’t really play tennis at that time.

Gladys, Jean Barker Weaver and other girls put together a softball team – but there were no other teams to compete against. They convinced a Tampa league to allow this country team to play. The Plant City team received some jeers but felt vindicated when they received the second-place trophy.

Gladys attended schools in Plant City and Turkey Creek and graduated Plant City High School in 1942. While at the 1914 school Gladys, who had been intrigued by her father’s old box camera, started hanging around the Hollywood Studio in the Mays Building on Reynolds Street. In 1941, 16 year old Gladys persuaded Myrtle Young, who ran the store, to hire her for $1 a week.

On weekdays, Gladys would ride her bicycle from the 1914 PCHS to the studio, and on weekends she would ride the 1½ miles from her home to the studio. She learned the business from the ground up: camera operation, portrait photography, timing, lighting, darkroom operations, chemical usage, exposure, developing, drying, printing, oil coloring, photo restoration, and more.

Although most photography was done in the studio, Gladys shot her first on-sites photograph using a folding view camera mounted on a portable tripod in 1942. Not long after, Mrs. Young turned the operation of the studio over to her son-in-law, Joe Grubbs. Grubbs, however, preferring another line of work, left most of the studio operation to Gladys, and she relished the opportunity.

This was the World War II era, and with the military training base, Drane Field, nearby, Gladys

was busy taking photos of soldiers who wanted to mail them home. And, since Polk County was dry, servicemen also came to Plant City to quench their thirst. Gladys worked feverishly – virtually every day and night and sometimes even Sunday afternoons.

In early 1945, at 19 she decided to go into business for herself. There was no financing available for a teenage girl – especially one with no real business experience. She convinced Ray Kramer to sell her his business, Kramer Photo Service, with Gladys making monthly payments. When she opened the Arcade Studio, in the Wright building, she did not have much equipment and not enough money for the second month’s payment. With her pioneer spirit and hard work, she succeeded.

After acquiring the Arcade Studio, Gladys began studying for the required photographer’s license; she passed the exam and was accepted into the Florida Photographers Association in 1946 – one of the few women and perhaps the youngest. She also applied for an Eastman Dealership, and was accepted. The Arcade Studio and Camera Shop became the first camera shop and Eastman-Kodak dealership in Plant City.

Returning from his military service, Dallas Jeffcoat visited the Arcade Camera Shop for a last photograph in his uniform. The two married in September 1946 and he began helping in the photography business when he could, and made frames for Gladys’ photographs.

After about seven years, Gladys sold the business to Al Riley to stay home and raise her children. Not in her plans, however, was that people would seek her out for their children’s portraits and events, so she began working out of her home. Dallas built a studio and darkroom in the garage and she was back in business.

Gladys’ trademark while photographing sporting events, which she began in the 1940s, was dashing about in slacks – unheard of for a woman in those days. Jeffcoat was also the official photographer

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 108

Gladys Jeffcoat, 1948

for the Plant City High annual, the Kanyuksaw, for twenty-six years.

Jeffcoat photographed extensively for the local newspaper, The Courier, as well as for businesses, legal documentation, agriculture, fishing and hunting trophies, rodeos, wildlife, festivals and parades.

For years she served as the official photographer for the Florida Strawberry Festival, where she photographed celebrities and political figures, including her former neighbor, Mel Tillis.

In 1969 she opened Gladys Jeffcoat’s Photo Studio and Camera Shop, which included the Eastman camera shop, the first One-Hour lab in Plant City, and a portrait studio. The store carried frames, albums, photography supplies, greeting cards, stationery, and party supplies.

In 1985 Gladys was named Woman of Achievement by the Plant City Business Women’s Club.

She was active in the preservation and restoration of the 1908-09 Union Station, as well as the 1914 Plant City High School building, and she served a lengthy term on the Board of Directors of the East Hillsborough Historical Society. Jeffcoat has established a camera museum with over 400 cameras she has collected over the years, including an 1891 flash powder camera.

In 1990, after her husband had passed away (1989), Gladys sold the business to her son, Harry Jeffcoat. Gladys Marie Prevatt Jeffcoat has retired to her “Paradise” on Lake Panasoffkee, and is still fishing, watching tennis, and sorting through her thousands of photographs.

extra alruechel

submit ted by al ru ech el

Tomato Scare Conundrum Okay, I’ll admit it. I just wanted to us the word conundrum in my lead. So there!

No seriously, this business with the salmonella outbreak and nearly 900 people getting sick since April is turning into another government Katrina. What the heck is the government supposed to do when a rare form of bacteria shows up in the food chain but we don’t know EXACTLY where it is coming from?

The keyword is exactly. There is no cause and effect direct link yet…..(as of this writing) and that’s the problem. The FDA decided years ago when there is some form contamination in our food supply they will not tell you which company is responsible until they are nearly 100 percent sure. Congress, in its infinite wisdom, put in a whole bunch of criteria about what the FDA can and can’t say. Gee, do you think the potential for a huge lawsuit might also have had something to do with it?

The industry lost $500M just like that

Here’s the problem with that course of action. You don’t wrongly identify one company as being the problem BUT you don’t take the suspicion away from all the rest of the tomato growers in the world.

Along comes the tomato salmonella contamination. The FDA would only tell us after more than 300 positive tests for salmonella affecting some 30 states that tainted tomatoes are “the likely” source. Would someone please tell me what “likely” means? I guess it means the one factor shared by all those exhibiting symptoms was they all ate tomatoes within 24 hours of becoming ill! Okay, unless my tomato-hating son is right, wouldn’t that pretty much include maybe… 80 percent of the population that’s eaten a salad within that time period?

Folks with the FDA tell me it’s not as easy as it may seem pinpointing an exact source of the salmonella. The one factor that’s made this a little easier is that the strain of the bug is fairly uncommon. That means you can zero in on only those folks with this specific strain to make some kind of intelligent guess as to it’s source.

Since the majority of tomatoes this time of year come from Florida and Mexico they would seem to be the likely source of the contamination. That’s why fast food chains and restaurants started pulling tomatoes off their menus like the plague. That’s why more than 100 semi’s sat in the parking lots of the packing houses crammed with… now rotting tomatoes. Even after the FDA cleared most of the growers as being safe… the boycott by the stores continued. The industry lost 500-million dollars just like that.

Now comes the big “switchero”. The FDA says, upon further review, it may not be the tomatoes after all.

Are you kidding me? They say it could be the cilantro or the jalapeno peppers. They are looking at some packinghouses both in Mexico and in Florida though they won’t say “exactly” where.

Congressman Adam Putnam tells me the FDA has really botched the investigation and created a disaster for Florida tomato producers. He blames some of the problems on laws created to protect the industry: laws he now says have practically destroyed it. “We’ve got to change those laws before we wipe out all the tomato producers in the state. They just can’t take hits like this and survive.”

So what are farmers to do? Here’s betting a huge class action lawsuit is about to land on the door step of the FDA. And unless the FDA finds the “exact cause” of the salmonella very quickly, I’m betting the farmers will win.

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 110

Susan M. Ott, D.O.

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Team Physician for Florida Southern College

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FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 112

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- Mobile Detailing We Come to You - Cleaning Services Residential and Commercial

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 I Believe...

Anna Alepin

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“Simple Joys”…I believe this, that they are a key to true happiness.

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sub m it t e d By A n n a Ale p i n send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

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All major credit cards accepted

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 114

Truth be told, although I am a woman with a multitude of complexities, I find great joy in the simple things of life.

Amongst the women in my Christian sorority, there is a greeting that we share with one another, it is this: “May the Joy of Christ fill your heart!”

What is this joy? Or rather, what is the joy of Christ? Hmmmm, getting complex isn’t it. Let’s keep it simple. God desires us to be happy. He doesn’t promise happiness in this life, but I think we can achieve a pretty good amount of it, if we look at how we can be a blessing to others and see others as a blessing to us. I think that would begin to increase joy in our life.

Remember when I asked what is the joy of Christ? Could it be that His joy is for us to love one another? To love as God does? And “He [God] so loved the world that He gave His Only Begotten Son, so that who so ever believes in Him, may not perish but have everlasting life.” (Jn.3:16) Wow, to live forever in the love of Christ! Now that’s joy!

Where do we begin? How about with looking in the mirror and saying to yourself, “I love you.” Then, moving on to someone in your family and telling them you love them and then moving on to someone who you know you’ve been avoiding because of some silly argument or misunderstanding and going over to them and forgiving them and allowing them to forgive you. What a simple act, yet one that requires so much supernatural grace and strength. As you begin to see beauty unfolding all around you because you made the decision to love, your spirit will then begin to experience an immense awakening of joy!

Mother Teresa, whom I like to refer to as the “little giant” from Calcutta said, “Let us do small things with great love.”

P

L A N T

C

I T Y

H

S

I G H

C H O O L

#1 “RAIDER PRIDE” MEMBERSHIP

$

25.00

- 1 Raider Booster Window Cling

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$

100.00

- 1 Raider Booster Window Cling

- Name Printed in Sports Program Book and athletic complex sign

Raiders

ATHLETIC BOOSTER CLUB

#3 “RAIDER GOLD” MEMBERSHIP

200.00

$

- Complimentary Parking at all home football games & 2 Raider Booster Window Clings - Complimentary Sports Program Souvenir Book - 2 Reserved Seats at all home football games (approximately 50 yeard line) - **2 Activity Cards OR 1/4 page ad in Souvenir Book - Name printed in Sports Program Souvenir Book and on the athletic complex sign

#4 “CORPORATE RAIDER” MEMBERSHIP

500.00

$

- Complimentary Parking at ALL home games.

As the New President of the Plant City High School Booster Club and on behalf of our board members, I want to reach out to the community and invite you to participate in supporting our high school athletes during this upcoming 2008-2009 school year. Having graduated myself from Plant City High School in 1979, I know what it means to be proud of the Plant City High School Raiders and the school pride that is built through our athletic events.

We are currently reviewing our school’s campus to see what is needed to improve our sports facilities. One hundred percent of your financial support will be used to enhance the Raider Sports programs by providing expenditures for our athletes which are not funded through the county budgets.

We look forward to a great year and thank you in advance for your support.

Sincerely, Philip C Balliet President PCHS Athletic Booster Club 1 Raider Place • Plant City, Florida 33563 • (813) 763-3072

- Complimentary Sports Program Book.

- 4 Reserved Seats at ALL home games (approximately 50 yeard line) & 2 Activity Cards - Name Printed in Sports Program Souvenir Book and on the athletic complex sign.

- 1/2 Page ad in Sports Souvenir Book and 2 Raider Booster Window Clings “Raider and Corporate” Members may buy additional reserved seats @ $10 per seat per season * Activity Cards are good for all athletic events in Hillsborough county, excluding any invitational or state play-offs ** Any Booster Member may buy additional activity cards for $50.00 each.

Booster Club Meets the 2nd Tuesday of each Month at 6:00pm

NAME (Please list name as you wish for it to appear in the program book and athletic complex sign)

ADDRESS CITY Email

STATE

ZIP

PHONE Cell Phone

I/We would like to help with: Please List ( ) Concession Stand ( ) Parking ( ) Maintenance ( ) Membership ( ) Publicity ( ) Special Project ( ) other

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED BY AUGUST 29th, 2008 FOR NAME TO BE INCLUDED IN THE FALL SPORTS PROGRAM BOOK AND ON THE ATHLETIC COMPLEX SIGN. Please mail to:

PCHS Athletic Booster Club Membership Attention Bonnie Balliet 1 Raider Place, Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 757-9370 ext. 228 or give to any Booster Board Member.

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 115

Marta Valesquez

Registered Pharmacist (FL)

Manjit Matharu

Registered Pharmacist (FL)

extra askwhowhat

Sto ry a n d P hotos by W e ndy Brown send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Ask Who What Question Submitted by

Ruth Ann Foster, retired educator

What is the Chamber doing to bring in more businesses to Plant City?

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FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ july 15 - august 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 116

Response from Paul Hackney, President of the Plant City Chamber of Commerce.

The chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economic development committee has been meeting with the county reviewing roads, infrastructure, schools, and the North East quadrant issues. We want to make Plant City and its quality of life more attractive to new business and young professionals. Right now there is a new web site on the chamber page showcasing available commercial properties. The chamber is also working with the Committee of 100 on an I-4 corridor plan. We know Plant City has wonderful qualities of community involvement, good schools, library, theaters, and is very family oriented. By smart planning, marketing, and a new midtown area, Plant City will be more attractive to businesses offering high wages for our citizens.

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 118

extra charity

Story and Photos by Krystel Know l es send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Caretaker for Over 2,000 Birds Charity Of The Month Phyllis Martin used to live in Riverview but moved to Plant City in 1996. Martin is one of the three remaining board members of Faunalink, an organization that takes care of confiscated, endangered or donated birds. Martin has been involved with different wildlife organizations since 1979, but became involved with Faunalink just one year after she moved to Plant City when she was contacted by the organization needing to find a temporary home for over 3,000 birds.

“I’d just bought an eight acre piece of land so I was willing to keep them in three acres for however long they needed a place,” Martin said.

As soon as Martin found out she had to house so many birds, she decided to build her own cages. Martin worked twelve to fourteen hours a day almost every day for nearly a month to build over 200 cages. She designed the cages to create a simple but strong home for the birds.

Although she was supposed to house the birds

Phyllis Martin playing with her favorite talking Cockatoo.

temporarily, she believes they will remain on her land for many more years because it is difficult to find land where they can be housed. Currently Martin cares for the birds single-handedly and would welcome help from other volunteers.

The organization has over 200 different species of birds, many of them are endangered and about 1,200 are confiscated Macaws. Confiscated birds cannot be sold or given away because they become property of and evidence for the state. Faunalink relies on food and monetary donations to finance the care and feeding of the birds. Martin also sells the eligible birds to zoos, pet stores and people who can provide good homes.

Phyllis Martin holding one of several baby blue Macaws.

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 120

She spends much of her day feeding the birds because different species require different diets.

The rest of the day she spends cleaning and interacting with them. “I feed them twice a day and spend most of my day cleaning their cages because right now I have no one to help me,” said Martin.

Even though she doesn’t have too much time for

herself, she says it is very fulfilling to know she is helping the birds. She also says she feels like it is her duty to help them because it is not their fault they are in this situation. She developed her love for birds over thirty years ago when she bought her first pair of Lorikeets. She chose birds because she wanted a small pet.

“I started with two birds and did not know too much about them and now I have over 3,000 birds and I am very knowledgeable about most species,” said Martin.

Martin says birds make very good pets because they are intelligent and easy to care for. They are also very gentle and affectionate when properly trained and loved. She states she likes to take care of them because they tend to be very comical and learn to imitate her when she speaks to them. To join the fun, contact www. faunalink.org or call (813)650-0929. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved with this important organization. Give them a hand if you can; it’s for the bird’s.

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July 19th & July 26th New items are being added each week

Some things really do last forever. They’re called memories 813-759-6473 • 2201 Thonotosassa Rd. • Plant City, FL FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 121

dining & entertainment diningprofile

Story and photos by w endy brow n

send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Ode to Seafood Chancy’s Catfish Shack

off-the-bone baby back ribs and a gigantic pulled pork sandwich will impress Bar B Que lovers. Patron Andy Brown believes, “The BBQ sauce is made perfectly for the ribs.

It brings out the flavor.” There are also many light dinners and broiled options. Sandwich varieties are great for lunch or dinner. Try the Cuban, grilled steak, roast pork, one half pound burger, or kosher all beef hotdog with crispy fries.

To round out your meal, homemade peach cobbler, chocolate cream pie, or coconut cream pie sprinkled with coconut will take your taste buds to heaven.

Joy is jumbo butterflied shrimp, fried crispy golden and dipped in succulent homemade cocktail sauce with a piece of chocolate heaven for dessert. You must try Chancy’s Catfish Shack where owners Wayne, Marshall, and Evelyn Chancy put pride on every plate. “This is what we do. We’re in the food business,” stated Wayne Chancy.

Availabilty of family land along with great grandma’s cooking, inspired Wayne to open his restaurant on land where his ancestors hiked to the fishing hole to catch catfish for supper. Marshall actually built the restaurant by hand, down to the tile floors and perfectly paneled dining room with Wayne

Pulled pork sandwich, golden french fries, ribs, jumbo fried shrimp, garden salad, and seafood combination with catfish, scallops, shrimp, and hushpuppies were perfectly cooked to order.

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 122

as his number one helper. Even though the restaurant opens at eleven, the family and staff typically arrive around 9:30 a.m. to do prep work for the day. It is time consuming to make everything fresh and homemade, but customers agree the results are outstanding. Iris Rutherford, Deshong Ernesco, and Kathleen Hagen come to Chancy’s once a week for fellowship and to relax. Rutherford and Ernesco especially love the fried grouper while Hagen enjoys the fried catfish with grits. Seafood is hand breaded in corn meal and fried until golden or broiled for the health conscious.

Word of mouth brings in customers happy to wait a few minutes for a table to chow down on seafood, sandwiches, and ribs. Don’t expect any store bought tarter sauce, cornbread, or desserts. Do expect your meal to be cooked to order and desserts too delicious to miss. And for those seeking unique fare, Chancy’s has Apalachiacola raw oysters, gator, frog legs, smoked mullet, and the best fried eggplant anywhere. Dinners come with fantastic hush puppies and a choice of sides: coleslaw, grits, baked potato, fries, potato salad, yellow rice, beans, apple sauce, salad, mustard greens, and jalapeno cornbread. Fall-

At Chancy’s you will experience great food at a reasonable price. The owners love to sit and chat with customers making everyone feel right at home. Coming in the fall, a beautiful patio area with a hand painted mural backdrop will feature casual garden dining, with bluegrass music on Friday and Saturday nights. Chancy’s offers a laid back family atmosphere with friendly and efficient staff.

Wayne and his parents Marshall and Evelyn are wonderful people who invite you to be part of their extended family. Come out and support a Plant City treasure!

Chancy’s Catfish Shack 2509 North Park Road, Plant City 754-3433 Sunday/Monday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday/Saturday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Closed Tuesday/Wed/Thurs No credit cards Little Fisherman menu Take out available Appetizers: $2.00-$8.99; Sandwiches: $2.25-$6.50; Dinners: $6.50 deviled crab -$14.99 real grouper, pound scallops or gator.

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FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;¢ july 15 - august 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;¢ Page 123

dining & entertainment entertainmentstory

Story by carolyn M i ll er P hotos court esy of red ros e i nn & suit e s

send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Plant City Stay-Cation Red Rose Inn & Suites Can’t make that planned vacation because the budget is a bit tight? Gas prices grounded you this summer? Forget high airfare and baggage charges.

How about a stay right here in town, where you can relax in luxury, enjoy great food, and explore our wonderful downtown? Why not take a stay-cation? Feel as if you just set sail on a cruise without ever leaving town. There is an award winning Inn waiting just around the corner, with amenities you may have never imagined existed right here in Plant City.

great house bands: Destiny with their top 40 sounds, and Ralph Allocco & Second Wind with their Vegas style act. Beginning Thursday night – which is also singles night – through Saturday, come see one or both of these bands perform. Aside from the house bands, there are performances by well known acts from all over the country. Check their website for dates and times of upcoming performances.

Want to learn to dance the tango?

Or waltz? Maybe the latest line dance? Hit the hardwood dance floor and take dance lessons with Susan Stanton every Monday night.

The Red Rose Inn & Suites offers a get-away for even the Beautifully appointed dining room, lounge, dance floor and stage at the Red Rose Inn & Suites most discriminating vacationer.

The inn features 120 State Rooms, 30 Polo Club The brain-child of Mrs. Evelyn and Batista As you can see, there is plenty to do at the Red Signature Rooms & Suites, and even a charming Madonia, Sr., the inn began as a modest Ramada Rose Inn & Suites to fill a long weekend, or Gone With the Wind Suite that will make you and blossomed into a wonderful and charming more. So Mrs. Evelyn and Batista Madonia, Sr. want to sip your mint julep while lounging addition to our community. Mrs. Evelyn invite you visit the Red Rose Inn & Suites. Sit in the king sized canopy bed. Mrs. Evelyn Madonia has put her stamp on every aspect back, relax and indulge yourself as the staff at Madonia is such a great fan of Gone With the of the Inn. Her impeccable taste is evident the Red Rose caters to your every whim. It’s Wind, she purchased memorabilia from the throughout. Nothing has been overlooked, from about time you took a vac…or better yet staymovie for the suite. Many of the suites surround the amazingly luxurious décor to the incredibly cation. the recently remodeled pool area, where you can romantic dining room. Courteous staff members spend hours lounging and relaxing in the cool greet you upon arrival, and are quick to say Coming Saturday, July 19th at 8pm George blue waters. they’re glad you came.

Galfo’s Mystics, call for reservations.

For more information visit www.

Want an award winning dining experience? redroseinnandsuites.com or call 813-752-3141.

Visit the Red Rose Dining room. Chef Matteo Casini and the goddess of executive soux-chefs, Ms. Venus, serve up fresh seafood, excellent steaks and the finest selection of wines. The atmosphere and wonderful food will make you come back again and again for romantic dinners for two. Sundays, indulge in a fabulous champagne brunch fit for a king. Every Tuesday and Wednesday the inn features a seafood and prime rib buffet with only the freshest, finest food available. Relax and enjoy this wonderful spread while being treated to smooth, live jazz.

Mrs. Evelyn and Batista Madonia, Sr.

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 124

Get your dancin’ shoes and boogie with two

Mahogany canopy bed in the luxurious two room Gone With The Wind suite

Marshal From the fields of Plant City and beyond, you have touched many lives with many more to come. We are proud of all of your accomplishments, however more proud that you are ours. Congratulations on an FFA journey that has just began.

Remember all roads lead to home.

From the people that Love You Most!

Marshall Sewell 2008-2009 FFA State President

FOCUS Magazine â&#x20AC;˘ july 15 - august 15, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 125

dining & entertainment entertainmentstory

Story and Photos by W endy S. B row n

send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Premiere Pops Into Town Red Ribbon Opening

Are you ready Plant City? We have movies again!! Thanks to Premiere Cinemas who recently renovated and reopened the theater on Alexander Street. Entering the foyer with checkerboard ceiling and snazzy lighting, patrons will feel the glitz and royal treatment.

Premiere spared no expense in this transformation. According to Joel Davis, Vice President of Operations, an Austin artist faux painted the walls glitzy grape and sunburst and will return yearly for touchups. Touches of detail abound from ceramic tile to red velvet panels around filmstrip deco lights. Stadium seating in all theaters are extraordinarily cushy comfortable with rocking motion, cup holders, and loveseat adjustable. Digital sound will enhance every movie go-ers experience.

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 126

Excited crew members try out the comfortable stadium seats before the open house. Back: Terry Thompson, Laquane Robinson, Brandon Bates, Jeff Jacobson. Front: Damaris Ortega, Lorena Zevallos, Gloria Estrada, Brooke Dodson,

The concession area certainly wasn’t overlooked either. Buy a combo and save ten percent. At the concession, the friendly cross trained crew can even give you movie information with your order.

Premiere plans on being a partner in Plant City through fundraisers and children’s activities.

“We’re a neighbor in the community,” said Joel Davis. Tickets are $7.50 and can be purchased on line at pcmovies.com, the concession stand, or the ticket booth. Manager Iris Demaris invites you to enjoy a premiere movie experience.

Premiere movie munchies include chili cheese dogs and pickles.

dining & entertainment localband

Story and photos by Pat Hearn

send questions and comments to editorial@floydpublications.com

Five Acre

Guys Who Like To Rock...and Eat Cookies A few months ago Five Acre was just Nathan Drawdy, a Plant City solo artist fresh out of the band Sacred Covenant. Now, Five Acre is a full band, rounded out with members: Seth Davis (drums), Jaryd Davis (bass), Casey Tomberlin (lead guitar), Josh Quincy (keys, bgv’s) and Nathan Drawdy (lead vocals and guitar).

ND It’s a road in Antioch. I was driving and writing a song in my head and I looked over and saw the road sign and I thought it sounded cool. [laughs]

Focus So, how did you guys get your start?

ND We’ll, we’ve only played four shows, so we haven’t been together long enough to have done much. But, we’re going into the studio in July. We’re recording two songs at Full Sail.

Nathan Drawdy I went into the studio with Seth and it just kind of started from there. Jaryd is Seth’s brother so he was brought on board and he brought Casey with him. I met Josh at The Brooke[a church]. We officially became Five Acre in April.

Focus What is ‘Five Acre’? Where did the name come from?

Focus What’s been going on lately? Accomplishments? Plans for the future?

Jaryd Davis Underoath, Flea.

Josh Quincy Cookie Monster, Billy Joel.

This Plant City quintet is sure to be making a name for themselves in the near future. Be sure to check them out a venue near you. You can also visit their MySpace at www.myspace.com/ fiveacre to stay updated on the latest Five Acre news as well as pre-order merchandise.

Focus Who influences you guys, musically?

ND Sesame Street, Switchfoot.

Seth Davis Breaking Benjamin, Animal.

Casey Tomberlin Joe Satriani, Steve Vai.

Wisdom Center SMOKEHOUSE

624 S. Evers Street Plant City, FL 33566 • (813) 754-4561 Hours of Operation: Mon - Wed 10:30 - 6pm • Thur 10:30 - 8pm Fri 10:30 - 10pm • Closed Sun

Five Acre at Boomerz in Seminole.

Autumn Leaf Academy Come experience the

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FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 128

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 129

Event Calendar Tuesday, July 15 The Anime and Manga Club is held from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. The teen event for ages 12 through 18 focuses on anime movies and much more. Teens will learn how to draw characters, speak phrases in Japanese and have fun with anime. The Friends of the Bruton Memorial Library and the Teen Library Club sponsor all teen programs.

Contact Salenca Coller, librarian, for more information at scoller@plantcitygov.com or call (813) 757-9215. The program’s website is www. mypsace.com/teenlibraryclub.

Thursday, July 17 A Japanese Culture and Food Tasting will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. The teen event is for children ages 12 through 18.

Seating is limited and tickets are available at the information desk. The Friends of the Bruton Memorial Library and the Teen Library Club sponsor all teen programs. Contact Salenca Coller, librarian, for more information at scoller@ plantcitygov.com or call (813) 757-9215. The program’s website is www.mypsace. com/teenlibraryclub and www. hcplc.org.

An Under the Sea program will introduce kids ages 4-12 to Florida’s coastal and marine communities at the Public Works Compound, 1802 Spooner Drive. Children will be able to make a gyotaku fish print to take home. Classes are free and require pre-regis-

tration by calling 757-9289 ext.

2249 Friday, July 18 Every third Friday, Express Yourself Coffee 101 holds drum circle and belly dancing at 7 p.m. The coffee shop is located at 101 E. Jay Arden Mays Blvd. Call (813) 659-0101 or visit www.espressyourself101.com for more information.

Saturday, July 19 Musical guest Larry Clark will be performing at Express Yourself Coffee 101 located at 101 E. Jay Arden Mays Blvd. Call (813) 659-0101or visit www. espressyourself101.com for more information Monday July 21Thursday July 24 The Plant City Parks and Recreation is holding basketball camp at Plant City High School with Dale Chambers, Plant City High School basketball coach. The camp will run from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The cost is $75 for children ages 7-15. For more information, call Larry Langston, athletic program manager at (813) 659-4200 ext. 4302 or email him at llangston@plantcitygov. com. The Parks and Recreation Department website is at www.plantcitygov.com.

Tuesday, July 22 A PowerPoint for Teens class will be held at the Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St., from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Registration is required one hour before the class begins.

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 130

July 15th - August 15th

Contact Salenca Coller, librarian, for more information at scoller@plantcitygov.com or call (813) 757-9215. The program’s website is www. mypsace.com/teenlibraryclub and www.hcplc.org.

Friday, July 25 Every fourth Friday, Express Yourself Coffee 101 holds a Jam Session at 7 p.m. The coffee shop is located at 101 E. Jay Arden Mays Blvd. Call 813-659-0101 or visit www. espressyourself101.com for more information.

Saturday, July 26 The Plant City Parks and Recreation Department is holding Bulls Baseball Camp at the Plant City Stadium with the University of South Florida baseball staff. The camp will run from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The cost is $30 for children ages 6-15. For more information call the Larry Langston, athletic program manager, at (813) 659-4200 ext. 4302 or email him at llangston@ plantcitygov.com. The Parks and Recreation Department website is at www.plantcitygov.com.

Musical guest May Be Foreign will be performing at Express Yourself Coffee 101 located at 101 E. Jay Arden Mays Blvd.

Call 813-659-0101 or visit www.espressyourself101.com for more information Tuesday, July 29 Students can learn more on word processing by attending the How to use Word to Write a School Paper class

from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. Registration is required one hour before the class begins. Contact Salenca Coller, librarian, for more information at scoller@plantcitygov. com or call 813-757-9215. The program’s website is www. mypsace.com/teenlibraryclub and www.hcplc.org.

Friday, August 8Saturday, August 9 The Plant City Parks and Recreation Department is holding softball summer camp at Plant City High School with Heidi Kouveras, the Plant City High School softball coach. The camp will run from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Aug. 8 and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Aug. 9. The sessions will focus on pitching and catching. Registration must be made at least two weeks prior to the camp date. The cost is $65 for children ages 9-14.

For more information call Larry Langston, the athletic program manager at (813) 659-4200 ext. 4302 or email him at llangston@plantcitygov.com.

The Parks and Recreation Department website is at www. plantcitygov.com.

Saturday, July 26 The Plant City YMCA will be holding an evening of poolside festivities from 7-11 p.m.

There will be tropical-themed foods and drinks from area restaurants, a live steel drum band, hula dancers, a silent auction, a 50-50 raffle and other chances to win prizes.

Guests 21 and up can attend for $35, which includes samples and creations from over a dozen of local restaurants

Event Calendar and markets. Hawaiian attire is encouraged and all proceeds will benefit the YMCA’S Building Strong Kids Campaign.

For tickets call Alicia Jett at 757-6677.

Thursday, August 14 The Greater Plant City Chamber will be welcoming new teachers to Plant City with the annual New Teacher Coffee at Exhibition Hall on the Florida Strawberry Festival Grounds. The chamber will be collecting donations and cash sponsorships preferably by Aug. 8. Any amount of cash sponsorship will be accepted to help pay for costs. Sponsors will be acknowledged in

the Contact Newsletter and on event placemats. Goodie bag donation items can be delivered to the chamber at 106 N. Evers St. or donors can call Amy at 754-3707 to have the items picked up and for any questions. Questions can be emailed to amy@plantcity.org.

July 15th - August 15th

986-7141 or visit the website www.plantcitycornerstonecenter.org.

Mondays: Zumba is held at the Planteen Recreation Center from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The cost is $5. For more information, call Chris at (813) 659-4256 or Patty at (813) 516-4731.

Recurring Events Plant City Entertainment will be presenting “Brigadoon” at the Plant City Cornerstone Center, 315 N. Collins. Show dates include July 18, 19, 20, 25 and 26 beginning at 8 a.m.

On July 20 there will be a matinee at 2 p.m. Tickets are priced between $8 and $10.

For more information call (813)

A summer gym class is taught at Plant City Children’s Theatre/Jackie’s School of Dance from 6 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. and a summer Kids on Stage class is taught from 6:45 to 8:30 p.m. The costs for the summer classes are $50 for one child and $75 for two children. The

dance theatre is located at 507 N. Wheeler St. Call (813) 752-1683 for age limitations on groups and times or visit the website at www.jackiesdance.com.

A story time for toddlers ages 2 to 3 and their caregivers will be held at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. at 9:30 a.m. Preschool story time is held at 10:30 a.m. for children ages 2 to 5. For more information call (813) 273-3652.

Senior aerobic classes are offered at the Planteen Recreation Center, 301 Dort St.,

continued on page 132

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FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 131

Event Calendar from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

The classes consist of hand and aerobic exercise and line dancing. Seniors must bring their own floor pad and weights. For more information, call Clarice Stewart at (813) 752-8476.

Tuesdays: Free Time Jazz begins performing at 7 p.m. at the Red Rose Dining Room. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com.

A summer gym class is taught at Plant City Children’s Theatre/Jackie’s School of Dance from 6 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. and a summer Kids on Stage class

is taught from 6:45 to 8:30 p.m. The costs for the summer classes are $50 for one child and $75 for two children. The dance theatre is located at 507 N. Wheeler St. Call (813) 752-1683 for age limitations on groups and times or visit the website at www.jackiesdance.com.

Ceramic classes are offered at the Planteen Recreation Center. The free classes are suitable for beginners through advanced participants. For more information call Dorothy Byrd at (813) 659-4256.

A story time for toddlers ages 2 to 3 and their caregivers will be held at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. at

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 132

July 15th - August 15th

9:30 a.m. Preschool story time is held at 10:30 a.m. for children ages 2 to 5. For more information call (813) 273-3652.

Heart Health Screenings and Blood Pressure Checks are held from 1p.m. until 2 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.

Wednesdays: Zumba is held at the Planteen Recreation Center from 6 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The 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 p.m. at the Red Rose Dining Room. For more information, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com.

Feature films are shown at the Bruton Memorial Public Library, 302 McLendon St., at 2:30 p.m. for kids. Visit www.hcplc.org for more information or call the library at (813) 757-8215.

Senior aerobic classes are offered at the Planteen Recreation Center, 301 Dort St., from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

The classes consist of hand and aerobic exercise and

Event Calendar line dancing. Seniors must bring their own floor pad and weights. For more information, call Clarice Stewart at (813) 752-8476.

Thursdays: 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.

Fridays: Destiny, the House Band of the Red Rose Dining Room, will perform. For more information, call (813) 752-3141

July 15th - August 15th

or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com.

tion, call Clarice Stewart at (813) 752-8476.

752-3141 or visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com.

Enjoy an evening of dancing from 8 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. with the Strawberry Singles Club located at the Stardust Dance Center, 1405 S. Collins St. The cost for members is $6, $7 for associate members and $8 for the general public. Call (352) 523-0114 or (813) 759-2063 for more information.

Saturdays:

Sundays:

Zumba is held at the Winter Visitor Center from 10a.m. until 11 a.m. Cost is $5. For more information, call Chris at (813) 659-4256 or Patty at (813) 516-4731.

The Heart of Florida Chapter of USA Dance, an amateur ballroom dance organizations, is holding dances at the Stardust Dance Center, every first Saturday of the month from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. It costs $6 for USA Dance members and $8 for nonmembers. The Stardust Dance Center is located at 1405 S. Collins Ave. For more information contact Terri Lynn Barrow at (863) 255-8344.

Senior aerobic classes are offered at the Planteen Recreation Center, 301 Dort St., from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

The classes consist of hand and aerobic exercise and line dancing. Seniors must bring their own floor pad and weights. For more informa-

Free Time Jazz begins performing at 7 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 at night. For more information, call (813)

Please send events to editorial@floydpublications.com

FOCUS Magazine • july 15 - august 15, 2008 • Page 133

GETTING MARRIED? WON AN AWARD? DELIVERED? GOT A PROMOTION? Call 813-707-8783 Ext 24 To Share Your Good News MAGAZINE

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