FOCUS Plant City Business 06-06 Part 1

C O M M U N I T Y

B U S I N E S S E S

T H A T

A R E

H E R E

F O R

Y O U

A PA I D A D V ERT IS E MENT S EC T IO N • PA RT 1 O F 3

PLANT CITY EDITION

BALL ROOM

See Ramada’S Profile on Pages 2 and 3

Mrs. Evelyn Madonia Owner/General Manager

The Red Rose Ballroom

A Gorgeous New Face on this Piece of Plant City Elegant / Brand new renovations / Highest Quality Available / Perfect for large events

The ballroom is perfect for your next special event!

When Batista Sr. and Evelyn Madonia purchased what we now know as the Ramada Inn Plantation House in 2002, it only took a short time for Evelyn to see the potential of the Ballroom.

“I wanted a place in Plant City where people could come for their large events, like weddings, banquets and the like,” she commented. “The new design was inspired by all things Gone with the Wind, and since the original building really wasn’t up to par, we finally decided to begin the improvements last fall.”

To make the space perfect for any event, the kitchen was enlarged and all appliances upgraded to top-of-the-line equipment, in order to keep the staff from having to transport all food down from the hotel’s main kitchen.

The bathrooms were completely remodeled, featuring fully enclosed compartments, each with a Swarovski crystal sconce, beautiful dark green granite and marble floors and walls, as well as custom made antique-looking vanities!

In order to accommodate any event held in the facility, a new audio-visual system was added, complete with three large pull down screens for easy viewing from anywhere in the large ballroom, a high-tech sound system and light array and an expanded area where well-trained operators are able to control the audience’s complete experience! Dennis Hoag is an expert in all of these areas, and he can work magic with special effects! He is assisted by his brother, Darrel Hoag.

Mrs. Evelyn Madonia invites you to join her at upcoming special events!

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 2

Dennis Hoag

Chef Chad Darling

Trinkle/Mark Rothman wedding.

Just recently, Plant City High School held its popular Honor Banquet, which marked the end of the school year, for seniors who earned a grade point average of 4.0 and over! Several sports awards ceremonies have been held during the past month, as well as several other large weddings; a bat mitzvah has been scheduled for this weekend for a beautiful young lady and her friends!

The ballroom is perfect for your next special event!

Evelyn has big plans for the new and improved space. Beginning in the fall, she will present a series of dinner shows, starting with the Tams, which will begin on November 10.

A wonderful addition to any family’s Christmas season will be the Christmas show on December 22, An Ozark Mountain Christmas.

Straight from Branson, Missouri, the show was created and is performed by an incredibly talented family, and Santa will also be in attendance, bringing with him an always-welcomed snow. This is slated as a family show, to which children are welcome to attend!

Shawn Noe and Paul Crabtree

New chandeliers were purchased, totaling four across the ballroom.

Well over 600 square feet of custom made wall covering, especially designed by Evelyn, who worked with a company out of New York City, is a dramatic, gorgeous dark green flocked velvet which looks fabulous next to the antique metallic gold woodwork. Solid mahogany doors with solid brass hardware have replaced the old doors, creating an area similar to, yet even more elegant, than the Red Rose Dining Room that so many in Plant City love to frequent.

“It’s just a space,” Evelyn stated. “It’s all what you make it. I’ve always been able to look at a space and see how I want it to be. I don’t say that I always do things the best they can be, but I say that I do them the best I know how.”

Each and every improvement that Evelyn & Batista, Sr. have made has been top of the line, no expense spared and of the highest quality. So far, The Rainbow Ball was the first renowned event to be held just after the finishing touches were put on the renovations; the classic Plant City Photo Archives followed, then the beautiful Rebecca

Welcome to the Red Rose Ballroom!

With a stage that can be taken apart and re-set in many styles, and a dance floor that’s easily expanded, the versatile nature of this incredible space is obvious.

Shawn Noe, Banquet Manager, and Paul Crabtree, Event Specialist, are both constantly on hand, making sure each and every event that takes place at the Red Rose Ballroom is handled with grace and ease.

Chef Chad Darling is always in the midst as well, ready to create the perfect menu or add the finishing touch to any event.

Evelyn clearly has a passion for high-quality entertainment, and we’re so grateful she brings it to Plant City. “I think it’s just a natural,” she commented. “People seem to enjoy it, and I love it! Also, the entertainers love it here; they always comment to me on the wonderful audiences.”

For a tour or to book your next event at the Red Rose Ballroom, visit 2011 North Wheeler Street in Plant City, call (813) 752-3141 or visit www.ramadaplantation.com.

One of the elegant new chandeliers that brings beautiful light to the renovated ballroom.

The new wallpaper is one of the most striking new features of the ballroom.

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 3

A Stepping Stone

Family Business Built on Firm Ground Family owned and operated / Over 20 years experience / Fast reliable service / High standards

Sam Stone (right) and the man who taught him everything he knows, Harry Callicoat, now General Manager of the company

The company has 73 active trucks to serve their customers

Sam Stone has been in the air conditioning business since the start of his career, which now equals out to over 20 years of experience. In March of 1990, Sam and his wife, Denise, decided to create their own air conditioning business, utilizing the service technician experience Sam had from four other AC companies. Together, they knew they could give their community the best service available.

Now, having been at the Plant City location just off I-4 at Thonotosassa Road for six years, Sam has 127 employees, 73 active trucks and the person who taught him everything he knows about the business as

the company’s general manager. With about 60% residential and 40% commercial installations, maintenance and services performed, the company retains well over 70% of their original customers.

“Air conditioning business masters all of the building trades,” Sam commented. “That’s the reason why I chose it for my career. We can actually do plumbing and electrical and engineering and framing.

Plus, I was hungry,” he added with a laugh.

Last year alone, SSAC installed units in over 6,000 new homes. With

A show room is available immediately upon entering the company

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 4

A show room is available immediately upon entering the company

a four-hour window allowed for the crews to respond to any given call, the company has received several awards from national builders for their service and quality. In the last three years, Stepping Stone has pulled more permits in Hillsborough County than any other company, ever.

With the service technicians entering the homes of his customers, Sam has staunch requirements for their conduct; requirements complete with an observation system. All employees have been background checked, must wear booties in the customer’s homes and are under the surveillance of active real-time GPS on each truck. “If there is any suspicion with an employee, we fall back on that GPS and check their references again,” Sam stated firmly. “If the employee says they’ve been at a customer’s house for two hours, and the customer says only one, we can pull that GPS up and know immediately.”

Sam also does not pay his service technicians a commission on anything they sell, like 80% of other air conditioning companies do, and each of his technicians must pass a full knowledge exam before they can be hired.

He also encourages anyone needing to buy a new unit to come and look at it first. “People will spend all day long shopping for the perfect

The staff of A Stepping Stone Air Conditioning and Heating is here to serve you!

TV for their den, but they won’t even come and look at a new AC unit before they drop $6,000 on it; it blows my mind!” he exclaimed.

Advocating a light-hearted office, Sam believes in having fun while at work…so long as the work is completed to his standard. There’s something to be said for that attitude, as the first four employees he ever hired are still on staff with him. “There really is no typical day here,” he said. Laughing, he added, “Fox will be here soon to start filming their new reality TV show.” Sam’s employees commented on names for the show…”Sam the AC Man” or “As the Stone Rolls” were a couple suggestions thrown out.

Sam gives much credit to his wife, and states she is “the most honest person I’ve ever known in my life. She’s the one who runs the company.”

Now, all three of his sons and also his daughter-in-law are working at the company as well. With integrity and honesty both high priorities, Sam plans to leave the business to his children if he ever decides to retire. “I opened and have built this business specifically to give to my kids,” he stated. “We’re not going anywhere.”

For more information on Stepping Stone Air Conditioning & Heating, contact them at (813) 757-6887 or 2718 Bennett Road.

A Stepping Stone Air Conditioning and Heating is able to provide quality parts efficiently due to their large on-site warehouse BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 5

American Auto Service Honesty is Key

Pride in Honesty / Integrity in parts and service / Continued education / Latest in diagnostic tools

American Auto Service is located at 1508 West Sammonds Road in Plant City

If there’s a single thing the majority of Plant City uses each day, it would have to be their vehicles. Most every resident of our town would agree that when you find a good auto repair shop, you stick with it.

Frank Powell got into the auto repair business in 1970, and in October of 1995 he moved his shop to Plant City. In January of 2006,

he opened a brand new shop at 1508 West Sammonds Road, his dream brought to life.

“It’s always been my dream to build a shop the way I wanted it built,” Powell commented. “I designed it, picked all the colors and tiles, I did it all. It’s really satisfying to walk in every day and see the fulfillment of my dreams, right here!”

Chris (left) and Mike Powell hard at work BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 6

Powell has a background in the military, but when the army started closing the bases he was working on, he came to Florida from Oklahoma and began classes to obtain his CPA license, while still working part time. After the company he worked for initiated cuts, Powell fell back on a job at a service station.

with technology. Through knowledge of how to work with their top-of-the-line diagnostic tools, and constantly attending classes to make sure their skills are the best in the business, the full-service center for any make and model has what it takes to satisfy the needs of every customer, great or small.

One thing led to another, and by 1971, Powell had his own service station. He quit classes to focus on a newfound dream: working for himself in the auto repair field.

Powell chuckles as he remembers one particular customer who brought her van in, complaining that the vehicle “just isn’t running properly.” It didn’t take long for the Powells to locate the problem: a large squirrel’s nest built right around the engine!

A self-proclaimed workaholic with no desire to retire, he now runs American Auto Service with his two sons: Chris and Mike. He admits sometimes the business can be very frustrating, but the rewards in the end are great enough to make up for any aggravation along the way.

“I pride myself on honesty,” he stated firmly. “If a technician comes to me and applies for a job, telling me he doesn’t make mistakes, I won’t hire him, because I know he’s not honest. I refuse to do things on the shady side.”

Powell believes that in Plant City, if a good job is done, one or two people may share with those they know, but if a bad job is done, the whole community will know about it. He refuses to skimp when it comes to service, parts or integrity.

Automobile servicing is a business that is constantly changing, but the father and sons team at American Auto keeps growing along

Powell himself grew up on a farm in southeast Georgia, and compares Plant City to the town he was raised in. “I love it here,” he enthused. “I love to meet the people who come through the doors of my shop, those who haven’t a clue what’s wrong with their car and those who know exactly what the problem is. I really enjoy talking with the farmers here, hearing about how that technology has changed and comparing it to what I grew up around.”

American Auto Service also offers auto accessories, such as tires and wheels, boasting eye-catching shiny display products in their front office.

So if your brakes need to be checked, your diesel truck needs a tune-up or you think you may have a case of squirrels under the hood, bring your vehicle to American Auto Service. Contact them today at (813) 752-6729 for all your auto servicing needs.

Chris Powell checks to make sure the job has been done correctly

Mike Powell using a state-of-the-art diagnostic machine

Frank Powell (center) and sons Chris (left) and Mike (right) invite you to bring your car troubles to American Auto Service!

Frank Powell is the owner of American Auto Service

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 7

Buckingham Cabinets Design & Installations Made Just for You!

30 years experience / Projects big or small / Budget friendly / Fulfilling dreams

If the name Buckingham reminds you of English royalty, don’t chalk it up to sheer coincidence. Gordon Buckingham, co-owner of Buckingham Cabinets Design & Installations with wife Heather, can trace his family tree back to when Buckingham Palace was built… by his own ancestors. With an incredible lineage of builders, woodworkers and craftsmen, it was only natural for Gordon to continue the family business. This July will make 30 years he has been working with cabinets, fabricating, designing and installing.

Having been in this business together for eight years, and making their home base here in Plant City for the past three, BCDI enjoys the Plant City community and all opportunities afforded to them in our town, while also traveling in an approximately 60-mile radius to service the central Florida area. They have continued to expand at each location they have moved to in Plant City, and now their main office is located in the newly renovated Trask building at the north corner of Reynolds and Collins.

The beautiful kitchen Buckingham created for Sandee Sytsma

The business is flexible in its ability to run with the flow of the economy. “Over the past six months, remodeling has been huge,” commented Heather. “Now home-building is really starting to pick back up again. We’ll work in either area.” With ten product lines to fit every budget in their showroom, it’s easy to target any clientele, with projects large or small.

With free estimates and 3D drawings provided, anyone in Plant City can come to BCDI with a vision of what they want their project to look like, and watch the staff make it into a reality.

“There’s no project too big, and no project too small,” Gordon stated firmly. “We can re-do your bathroom, or a 12,000 square foot home.”

A kitchen created especially for Pam Pomfret by Buckingham Cabinets BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 8

for a brand new kitchen and they were very creative. We have a 1950s home and wanted a kitchen to match that era. They captured our vision and ran with it. I would highly recommend them.”

Heather keeps her eyes open for sales from all of her suppliers, and has been able to save her customers up to two thousand dollars off the original price by the end of the project. Sometimes this constitutes completely new drawings. Sometimes it means staying up until 2:00 a.m., however, the bottom line for BCDI is always to give a better product for less.

Buckingham Cabinets is located at the corner of Collins and Reynolds Streets in Plant City

Believing one of her best skills is hearing what the customer is saying, and then producing an end result identical to what they were looking for to begin with, Heather knows her customers will be taken care of properly, without breaking their banks.

If you are interested in having Buckingham Cabinets Design & Installations do work in your home, contact them at (813) 7522900, 102 West Reynolds Street or www.buckinghamcabinets. com. Check and see what sales their suppliers are offering when you make contact! You just may get a better deal than you thought possible!

An example of a display at the office of Buckingham Cabinets

“We have built this business one customer at a time,” Heather explained. “We are very budget-friendly, and we don’t believe in selling a below-standard product. We’re not here to make a million dollars, we’re here to give you something inside your home that you can be proud of.”

“Don’t be afraid to ask, or dream, or plan,” she continued. “If you can think it, and you can see it, it can be yours! It is attainable!

There are financing options available; most people just need some guidance in going about it.” Heather encourages all her clients and those interested in becoming clients to educate themselves. With a firm desire to not see anyone taken advantage of, she believes her job is to complete a project within her client’s budget. The business has grown mainly through referrals, which the Buckinghams take as a high compliment, and proof that they are trustworthy and reliable when it comes to their work.

The show-room of Buckingham Cabinets

“We become friends with 90% of our customers,” Gordon laughed.

“The relationship that was built at the start carries on after.”

One of Buckingham’s favorite customers is Plant City resident Sandee Sytsma. “I was very pleased,” she said. “I had gotten several other estimates, but they had a wider selection of countertops and a wider selection of price ranges. They are very creative and helpful. I’m very pleased with the results. We gutted the kitchen

Another example of a display at the office of Buckingham Cabinets

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 9

Curves

Caring for Women, Plain and Simple Tailored for women

/

Easy to use

/

Friendly atmosphere

/

Building friendships

“I bought my first Curves franchise because I got fat,” Sherry Nueesch, who now owns two franchises, including the one in Plant City, explained. Due to menopause and depression she gained 60 pounds in a little over a year. Needless to say, Nueesch was devastated by the weight gain, but she found a Curves and decided to give it a try.

“The first day I walked in I turned around to walk out,” she remembered. “The owner of that Curves asked me why I was leaving and I told her I was looking for a real gym. She challenged me to a free workout. I was blown away by how hard it was. I have lost close to 50 pounds myself and because of a thyroid issue, I had to do it twice!”

Having been in this business since January 3 of 2000, Nueesch is convinced Curves works, and she believes strength training was the missing link in women’s fitness. “Muscle is the engine of the body that burns body fat,” she explains. “Building muscle raises metabolism. The higher your metabolism, the higher your energy expenditure, meaning the more calories you burn throughout the entire day.”

Another perfect example of someone who found her answer at Curves is Michelle Richardson, who lives right here in Plant City and is a faithful attendee of our Curves. Richardson is a 32-yearold mother of two boys (ages 12 and 13), and an 8th grade teacher who has lost 58 pounds and 33.5 inches since this past December.

Sherry Nueesch

During any extended conversation with a woman, one is bound to hear the phrase, “I need to get back in the gym…” Although there are plenty of avenues to fitness, there is only one tailored specifically for women that will certainly be different from any other club or gym tried in the past. That place is Curves.

The Curves fitness regime provides women with a complete aerobic and strength training workout in only 30 minutes. The circuit is designed using easy-to-learn-and-use hydraulic resistance machines, specifically tailored for women.

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 10

“I decided to get serious in December. Three times a week I’m in there now,” Richardson stated firmly.

“I’ve been a member of three other gyms,” she commented. “The thing I like about Curves is that it’s 30 minutes. I found that when I go to the other gyms, even though people are nice, and they show me around and they show me how to use the machines, when I’m by myself I go straight to the treadmill, and that’s the only thing I’ll do. At Curves you’re forced to go around the circuit.”

Richardson believes one reason other women should join Curves is because of the friendships women develop while working out. “I go all the time at 6:30 in the morning, and I have the same group

Your Plant City Curves!

of ladies that I have a relationship with. It’s really a fun place to be.

And going from a size 22 to a 16 helps, too.”

Curves is now international, boasting over four million members.

Nueesch sums Curves up like this: “We are passionate about what we do and we are passionate about our members. We are one of you. We all have our stories. We UNDERSTAND each of you. A woman’s weight and how she feels about herself is the most emotional thing she deals with in her life. We are so much more than just exercise.

Come to my Curves and you will experience it for yourself. Curves Cares!”

Visit Curves of Plant City at 1822 James L. Redman Parkway, or call them at (813) 719-1822.

Michelle Richardson before and after her Curves transformation!

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 11

Elite Home Fitness Get in the Best Shape of Your Life

Convenient / No More Excuses / Personalized Work-out / Get the Results You Want

Many Americans have the desire to get in shape, but the idea of joining a gym and disciplining themselves to go frequently prevents them from moving forward. Mike Gartz realizes people need convenience and accountability if they are going to live a healthy lifestyle.

After 17 years experience in fitness clubs and personal training, Mike decided to start a different style of personal training, which has proven to be successful for many people in Plant City.

Mike Gartz

Elite Home Fitness is a unique style of personal training where the trainer brings the workout to you at home. The program is completely personalized and designed to fit around your schedule. No matter how early or late, you can arrange to have a fitness program brought to your doorstep. Some appointments are as early as 5 a.m., others as late as 9 p.m. The wonderful thing about having a personal trainer come to your house is that you know you cannot make up excuses for not going to work out. If you have a set appointment for someone to come to your home, you will most likely be ready and accountable.

When you decide to use Elite Home Fitness, the first thing you will notice is Mike is not just your personal trainer; he becomes a friend.

The added benefits of having a fun and up-beat personality as your trainer make the work out less dreadful. Mike will push you to your limit and help you get the results you are looking for.

“I can help people get into the best shape of their lives,” said Mike. However, to truly make a strong difference in your life, the changes cannot be solely physical. Although working out is a necessity, Mike

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 12

also encourages his clients to keep a nutrition diary. He provides his clients with nutrition counseling so they can eat healthy, feel confident and look great. “I’ve helped people lose 60+ pounds,” said Mike.

Another service Mike offers is Healthy Foods, Etc. Many people eat unhealthy food simply because they do not have time to prepare foods that are good for them. Healthy Foods will prepare and deliver freshly cooked meals to you for you to keep in the freezer.

The meals are prepared, chilled, and placed into Cryovac packaging for you to easily reheat in your microwave when you are ready to serve.

Mike can train all ages, shapes and sizes. You will certainly experience results with the one-on-one personal attention he can provide.

Couples-training is also available where Mike can train both husband

and wife at the same time so they can get in shape together.

In today’s world, everyone is short on time and heavily burdened with stress. This is a great way to relieve stress, gain energy and lose weight without inconveniencing your schedule. The workout usually lasts between 45-60 minutes. Each workout is designed personally for each client, including cardio, toning, strength training and stretching.

“The reason I do fitness is because it is a gratifying business,” said Gartz, “I get to help change people’s lives for the better and help them to enjoy life more. It makes you feel good when you help others feel good.”

If you have been procrastinating on getting in shape, you are really running out of excuses now. It’s time to make a change in your life and have fun doing it! Call Elite Home Fitness or Healthy Foods, Etc. today at 813-786-1541.

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 13

The Granite and Marble Gallery

One-stop shopping for all your decorating needs Imported pieces / Convenient showroom / Incredible durability / Simple elegance

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 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 comBUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 14

plete installation available for your residential and commercial decorating needs... 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 Lakeland Florida, 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, 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.

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. 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.

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.

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!!

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

Feel free to call Pam Brester (Cell 863-670-2092) or Richard Clark (863-802-5600) at the GRANITE AND MARBLE GALLERY for a free in-home consultation.

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, 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.

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 15

Jarrett-Scott Ford

No Desire to be the Biggest, Just the Best!

Knowledgeable staff

The car dealership on the corner of Highway 92/Baker and Park Road in Plant City is a familiar one. In 1995 the Jarrett family bought this dealership from Wilson Davis. At the time they purchased it they made Wade Bodiford, who was then the General Manager, their partner, and named the business Jarrett-Bodiford. Wade Bodiford left the company for semi-retirement in 2002, and the dealership became Jarrett Ford, with the Jarrett family still running it. Jim Scott came on board as Vice President and General Manager in 2004, and the name was changed to Jarrett-Scott Ford in August of last year.

/

New and used

/

/

Community oriented

Jarrett-Scott Ford is located at 2000 East Baker Street in Plant City

Scott started with Ford Motor Company in 1995 in Detroit, Michigan. “I’m from suburban Detroit, born and raised up there. I was with Ford from 1995 to 1999, and then in 1999 I went into business with the Jarrett family, so I’ve been with them for almost eight years now. The first four or five years I spent up in Dade City as partners

The Service Personnel of Jarrett-Scott are ready and waiting to serve you!

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 16

Easy to work with

with the family members running the Dade City dealership before coming here to run this dealership.”

Jarrett-Scott has made the 10-mile radius of their dealership (Plant City, Dover and Western Polk County) their territory for new sales,

Chris Killian is one of the longest-employed technicians with Jarrett-Scott

Bring all your Ford needs and beyond to Jarrett-Scott!

Vice President and General Manager Jim Scott enjoys the ride provided by the 2008 Ford F250 Super Duty

Jarrett-Scott Ford of Plant City offers great deals on quality used vehicles, all makes and models!

used sales, service, parts and bargain shopping. Although Scott admits to selling to clients living as far away as Alaska, he pledges to “take care of our backyard customers.”

Although the dealership can help you with all the latest and greatest Ford vehicles on the market, as well as make you a great deal on a used vehicle of almost any make and model, they also offer a winning service department, flexible parts department, a detailed body shop staff, and the newest member of their small empire: the Bargain Lot, located just up the street on the corner of Park and Calhoun Roads, just across from the apartment complex. The goal of this lot is to satisfy a customer with a vehicle from $10,000 or less. And all vehicles purchased from any lot with the Jarrett-Scott name attached are given the first four oil changes for free, and are always able to make use of the service department at the dealership, with all makes and models being serviced.

“We’re in this for the long haul,” Scott said, with regards to his plans for the business. “I’m only 36 years old, so I’m a long way from retirement and I don’t plan on moving. The Jarretts bought this store 12 years ago, and have built it on honesty and integrity, and that’s not going to change.”

Scott feels communication is one of the most important aspects when it comes to running this dealership. “Most problems that we have with customers or consumers are based on communication breakdowns that happen between our employees. Clear communication is very important to customer satisfaction. And we also drive a lot of our customer satisfaction through employee satisfaction. Happy employees will create happy customers. I’m not one to beat up my employees over a mistake. We learn from the mistake and move on.”

Although Scott himself is a member of the Rotary, on the YMCA’s Board of Directors and is involved in the Chamber, he takes pride in the fact that Jarrett-Scott as a whole is very involved in the community of Plant City. “We are very active in things like the Strawberry Festival’s Youth Livestock sale, and their Plant Sale,” he enthused.

“We’re big supporters of the FFA, the local schools, local athletic teams and all the kids out there. We do our best to reach out, support and give back.”

For more information on how Jarrett-Scott can satisfy your automotive needs, call (813) 752-4171 or visit them at www.JarrettScottFord.com or 2000 East Baker Street in Plant City.

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 17

KnowledgePoints

®

An Affordable Solution to the Needs of Your Child One-on-one

/

As FCAT scores and school grades are released, and parents ponder how their child can do better next year, many are frustrated and don’t know where to turn. Perhaps their child is distracted in school, too far ahead of their class or cannot learn unless one-on-one attention or hands-on activities are involved. By the time a homework session commences, both child and parent are tired, frustrated and misunderstanding the work and each other. There is a solution. KnowledgePoints was created by the founder of Sylvan Learning Centers, and was brought to Hillsborough County in 2001 by businessman and home-schooling father Rod Burkhardt. The Plant City location was established in 2003 at Hope Lutheran Church on Park Road. “It is a national company in 20 states,” Burkhardt said. “We’re making tutoring more affordable by using facilities that lie dormant throughout the week. By having a lower cost structure, we can make it more affordable for the parents, and thereby make a bigger impact in the community.”

The first step of the KnowledgePoints program is a full assessment. Every student is taken through a series of tests in order to identify the areas where they need reinforcement. All testing is done individually, creating a system where no time is spent

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 18

Hands-on

/

Personalized

program

/

Budget

options

Burkhardt also finds time to be involved in the community. A member of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, he participates in the yearly New Teacher’s Conference. With other centers in South Tampa, Brandon and Riverview, he is also co-chair of the education committees in the Brandon and South Tampa Chambers of Commerce.

in areas that will not benefit each child to the fullest extent. Once the assessment has been completed, a personalized program is designed specifically for the student’s individual needs. The child’s tutor begins to work with the student in the confines of the plan, through teaching, motivating and rewarding. The results are astounding.

KnowledgePoints guarantees each child will improve at least one full grade level within the first 40 hours of instruction. If that doesn’t happen, they will continue to tutor your child for another 15 hours at no additional charge, but that almost never happens. Burkhardt became involved in the program when he realized his desire to make an impact on his community. “This opportunity just met every goal and dream that I could imagine,” he commented. “We [he, along with wife Elyce] home-schooled our kids, so education was very important to us. When you’re able to help children on an individual basis, it opens up the doors to education. This is like a ministry to us, and it has a powerful impact on their future.”

New programs recently added to the tutoring service are for PreReaders (Zoo-Phonics) and Writing. These programs fill a significant need in the community.

Students are grouped according to their ages, with no more than three students per tutor. The tutors are teachers or former teachers. Nevertheless, each child’s current classroom teacher is conferred with, before and throughout the KnowledgePoints process, to ensure success in the classroom.

Burkhardt knows the success of this business can only grow as time goes on. “When the kids see immediate success, they feel encouraged. It changes their attitude towards learning, towards themselves and towards education in general.”

KnowledgePoints can be reached at 813-754-7788 or 2001 N. Park Road in Plant City.

KnowledgePoints is an approved provider for No Child Left Behind, boasting programs for ages Pre-Kindergarten through 12th Grade, and although the cost is already approximately 60% less than Sylvan or Huntington Centers, Knowledge Points also offers a $99.00 per month family budget plan.

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 19

Metro City Group

Your Hometown Painting and Cleaning Company Over a decade of experience

/

Punctual

Metro City Group, the Bay Area’s premier painting and cleaning company, specializes in new and pre-existing commercial and residential properties. With over 12 years of experience, Metro provides its clients with high levels of quality service and excellent communication from its staff.

The company wants to be the name EVERYONE in Plant City thinks of for its cleaning and painting needs, whether it is a home builder, commercial builder, farmer, school teacher or office owner.

If your home needs a new paint job, Metro Painting Tampa is the answer to your problem

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 20

/

Dependable

/

More than capable

Metro City Group is involved in the community and plans to only become more involved in the years to come. They have worked with many charities and have offered their services at little or no costs to many public facilities in need.

Metro consists of two divisions, Metro Cleaning and Metro Painting Tampa, Inc. Sarah Zeller-Badat, owner of Metro Cleaning, has lived in Plant City for 25 years and is proud to call it her home.

Metro Painting’s owners, Burak Badat and Ben Sanlier, have lived in the area for 10 years and have brought with them experience and ethics that by far lead the industry. Upon their merger earlier this year, Metro City Group found a new home in Plant City and couldn’t be happier. Their new facility offers a paint selection

Leave the detailed work to Metro City Group

est, most thorough professional cleaning available. Metro is the leading professional and construction cleaning service because of its devoted staff and experienced supervisors who have worked together to devise the proper system to keep mistakes minimal and customers satisfied. When you need a commercial or construction cleaning company who “never says no”, you can count on Metro Cleaning.

With the competition in the industry, it is difficult to know the right “man” for the job. Metro City Group lives up to its word and has taken the extra steps by becoming a member of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and National Housing Quality (NHQ).

So when making this difficult decision, go with a hometown, local company who takes pride in their work and is dedicated to going the extra mile for every customer.

To contact Metro City Group, call us at 813-752-1960.

Whether your under-construction home is in need of a big clean up or its first paint job, Metro City Group can handle it all for you

facility for residential customers and a friendly coordinator to help with any clients’ needs.

Experience coupled with outstanding workmanship, which can only come from many years of experience, yields an unwavering commitment to customer service and satisfaction in each and every job.

Metro City stands behind its work 100% by providing warranties on all labor and materials.

Metro City Group’s painting division is unique within the industry. The techniques and equipment used are state of the art and the employees are extremely energetic. When an estimate is requested, Metro Painting will provide a free detailed proposal the same day, if needed, with absolutely no obligations, and are always open to work with clients on meeting budgets. In an effort to help the community and make it realistic for homeowners to remodel, Metro Painting offers a two-pay plan to residential customers and accepts a variety of payment options.

Metro City Group’s cleaning division has an unscathed reputation.

The staff is top notch and leaves nothing behind for the “white glove.” When you hire Metro Cleaning, you can expect the healthiMetro City Group can give you the fresh look you desire for your home

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 21

Coffee 101

Where Coffee and Community Blend Together Downtown, facing McCall Park / Local live musicians / Open at 7:00 a.m. / Free wireless internet

Coffee 101’s service area

In the midst of all the remodeling and re-vitalization that has taken over downtown Plant City recently, one business in particular stands out from all the rest – Coffee 101. Plant City’s new coffee house has already, in just four short months, become the destination for exceptional coffee, gourmet pastries, and perfectly blended cold drinks.

The renovations were extensive: removing the old lathe and plaster to expose as much of the original brick as possible, repairing damaged areas and even adding a new brick archway connecting the back of the building that looks as if it was there from the beginning. The Davis’ also added a drive-thru on the side of the building that can be accessed via the alleyway from MLK Blvd.

Heather and Jonathan Davis, the owners of Coffee 101, have taken the time to research the coffee industry extensively. When I spoke with them, they had just returned from Coffee Fest in Atlanta, a major trade show for the industry. The Davis’ have strong family ties to the community here in Plant City and for some time had wanted to start a coffee house here. When the building at 101 East J. Arden Mays Blvd. became available, they knew it would be the perfect location. Previously, the location had been Andrew’s on the Park – a very popular restaurant that the Davis’ would frequent, so they were familiar with the building. A deal was struck with the new owners of the building and Coffee 101 was born.

The Davis‘ understand the importance of letting the customer “into the kitchen” by the way they designed the open, accessible workspace. Not only can you watch every step as your coffee is prepared, but also in plain view are the prep tables and the oven where fresh scones are baked daily. The idea at Coffee 101 is to reassure the customer that they are receiving a product that is not only fresh, but also prepared in a clean environment. With the polished stainless steel counters and gleaming chrome equipment, they certainly have made their point.

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 22

There are many details that set Coffee 101 apart from the average coffee house, such as the custom poured concrete counters with the Coffee 101 logo in the center, and the chalkboard from an old schoolhouse that has been turned into a menu board by a local artist. The décor at Coffee 101 is very inviting and relaxing, a quality that was very important to the Davis’ as they designed the building’s new layout, utilizing every corner without becoming too modern or corporate looking. The baristas that work at Coffee 101 add to this feeling, making sure the customer gets their order quickly, without rushing them to leave.

If you are a person who appreciates an excellent cup of espresso, you are definitely in the right place. Coffee 101 hands down has the best espressos, macchiatos, and lattes that you could imagine. Heather Davis was explaining the many variables involved in making the perfect shot of espresso. From having a consistent water temperature, to how fine you grind the espresso, and even how firmly the ground espresso is packed into the portafilter basket can change the flavor of the espresso dramatically. Although it may sound quite involved, the well-trained baristas at Coffee 101 consistently get it right.

Espresso shots are essential to the coffee making process

The feeling that the Davis’ have created at Coffee 101 with the surroundings is enough of a reason to visit, but the different coffee drinks and tempting pastries will surely make you want to come back and visit their shop again, and again, and again…

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 MySpace at www. myspace.com/espressyourself101.

Teas and Biscotti are also available

Cold Blended Mocha

Customers love the service at Coffee 101

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 23

Remedi Spa & Chiropractic Center

Excellent Reputation, Even Better Results Unique services

/

Maximum care

Dr. Jeffrey Dunn has been in business for a total of 10 years, and has been in his current location at 1701 South Alexander Street since 1999. Established as Dunn Chiropractic in the beginning, two years ago he changed the name of his practice to Remedi Spa & Chiropractic Center, offering even more services to the Plant City community and surrounding area. “I heard people say that I was out of business, I had moved, or I was no longer doing chiropractic, but no, I’m still here!’ he laughed, when discussing the name change. “We still continue to offer the same level of services that we did before. The chiropractic treatment is still the primary focus of our practice.”

/

Results-driven

Caring people

Dr. Dunn has been certified in the now popular spinal decompression therapy since 1997, one of the longest-certified doctors in decompression therapy in central Florida. Conditions he is able to treat range anywhere from acute traumatic injuries including car accidents, slip-and-falls and sports injuries, to repetitive stress injuries (such as carpal tunnel), degeneration and arthritis.

“One of the things I love about this job is that it’s very dynamic,” he commented. “Some days we’ll see a prevalence of a certain type of condition. It seems like it comes in waves; one day we’ll

Dr. Jeffrey Dunn with wife Stacey and children from left to right: Blake, Ashley and Chase.

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 24

/

Remedi Spa & Chiropractic Center uses only state-of-the-art equipment

see everybody who’s had a neck injury, and the next day it will be everyone who has lower back pain.” In a typical day, Dr. Dunn will see anything from minor sprains and strains and muscle pains, to people who are bringing in films because they don’t want to wind up in surgery.

In addition to the chiropractic care, the spa side of the practice offers many services that can’t be found anywhere else in Plant City, such as laser hair removal, IPL photofacials and skin rejuvenation. Other treatments available include face and body chemical peels, facials, clinical microdermabrasion, body mud wraps and polishes, massage and reflexology. They also offer spa packages and cosmeceutical skincare products from Physician’s Choice, Skinceuticals and Jan Marini Skin Research. The physician supervised treatments utilize state-of-the-art equipment, including a Palomar IPL for the laser hair removal and photofacials, and medical grade skincare for the chemical peels, microdermabrasion and facials.

“I’m different from almost every chiropractor, in the fact that I do not try to see how many times I can get a patient to return,” Dr. Dunn commented. “I want to see if we can minimize their number of visits with maximum care.

We are very resultsdriven.”

matter what patient is currently being worked on, they are the most important person at that time.

“Sometimes patients come in walking sideways, sometimes crawling in with tears rolling down their face, and I’ve even had to go out to a vehicle and carry a patient in,” Dr. Dunn remembers.

“With those types of cases, we try to go ahead and get them in and begin trying to treat them.”

Not only possessing a concern for his Stone massage is one of the services Remedi offers patients, but also a drive to be involved in his community, as well, Dr. Dunn is a member of the Lions Club, and a Cub master with Cub Scout Pack 733, as well. “I love this community, and I want to thank Plant City and all the people here who have welcomed me and supported my business.”

“I love to get new patients who have been to another chiropractor,” he continued. “It’s a different experience for them here. It’s a different level of care, it’s a different atmosphere. It’s not about their insurance, it’s not about money, it’s about taking care of people.”

For more information on Remedi Spa & Chiropractic Center, call (813) 752-2440, or visit them at 1701 South Alexander Street.

The staff as a whole also tries to limit wait times. Occasionally there is a wait because, no Remedi offers a variety of massages for your relaxation needs!

Facials are a wonderful way to not only relax but to preserve your best assets

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 25

Southern Towing & Recovery

Giving Superior Service with Pleasure!

Gets job done

/

Respectful

/

Always on call

/

Family business

Southern Towing & Recovery is here for you!

Tommy Richards has been around towing all his life. His father (Tom Richards, Sr.) was a contractor with AAA in Brandon for 4 years, and his uncle was the same for almost 10 years.

“We enjoy helping people,” Tiffanie commented, “So when this type of profession came up for us, it warmed my heart to know that it’s not just a job. We are out there servicing our community.”

“It’s been in the blood forever,” Tommy commented. Although he worked in construction for Kimmins Contracting as a superintendent for eight years – one of his most notable projects being the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tampa – when the opportunity for him to open his own towing company as President in 2004 came, he jumped at it. Tommy’s wife, now Vice President of the company, was working for an ophthalmologist in Tampa, and had been there for nine years before pioneering the business along with her husband.

Southern Towing & Recovery operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, making use of its four trucks, three full-time drivers and three part-time drivers. As the primary contractor for AAA in this area – the largest coverage area in Central Florida Servicing from Manatee to Pasco and Polk to McIntosh Road – the company was just featured as the basis for a new AAA training video. A recent AAA publication also printed an article on the secrets of Southern Towing’s success.

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 26

A close friend and co-worker’s memory is preserved through these emblems on trucks and office décor

Tommy and Tiffanie believe in training their drivers to treat others how they would want to be treated, and in being compassionate. “People should realize that this can be a hard business,” Tommy stated. “Even though we’re there to help, we know we’re going out to people in their most distressed moments.”

Another compassionate aspect of the business is their membership in SERT (Severe Emergency Response Team), responding when there’s a hurricane or any kind of disaster. “In 2005 I was out of the state for more than 100 days when all the storms came through,” Tommy remembered. “Every state the storms hit I worked in. I lived out of my truck for a long time, hauling generators, pumps and all kinds of equipment to the people who needed it. We actually just returned from the Governor’s Hurricane Conference, which we were invited to by Garner Environmental.” The company also holds membership in PWOF (Professional Wrecker Operators of Florida).

Tommy keeps the memory of his father close by

and Tiffanie, which is evident as soon as one walks into their business!

As for their thoughts on Plant City? A sponsor of the Turkey Creek Trojans, a member of the Chamber and volunteering their time for many different organizations, it’s obvious this couple and their business make an impact in the community. Tommy put it best when he stated, “I take great honor working in the town that I come from.”

For more information on Southern Towing & Recovery, call them at (813) 737-4846 or visit them at 901 South Woodrow Wilson Street in Plant City.

“I’ll haul anything, it doesn’t matter what it is,” Tommy continued. “I’ll haul anything from hogs and dogs to airboats, racecars and planes. If you need something hauled, I guarantee it will only take one call to me and I’ll get it done for you.”

“We take pride in our work, in our employees and our equipment,” Tiffanie stated firmly. “We want people to know that whatever we are hauling for them will be taken care of with pride, as well.”

In their free time the couple enjoys air boating with their sons, Tommy Richards III (age 14) and Brodie (age 6), whom they hope to pass the business on to in the future. Harleys are also a big interest for Tommy

Sterling, mascot of Southern Towing & Recovery

Tommy and Tiffanie Richards BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 27

True Blue Pools and Spas Call Them When Quality & Honesty Count

Solid reputation / High quality / Cares about their customers / Plenty of varieties to choose from

An example of what True Blue can do for you!

Jimmy Carapezza, owner of Central Florida Custom Homes has a talent for making homeowners happy with the finished product. Because of his concern for his clients Central Florida Custom Homes has built a solid reputation in this area as being a name you can trust.

Eight years ago Central Fl. Custom Homes became a licensed pool contractor. This was prompted because of his frustration of dealing with pool builders. “I knew I could give homeowners a better product without putting them through the agony of dealing with pool builders that did not have their interest at heart and would hedge on quality. “ “With pool designer Frank Leon on board, we became an unstoppable team. Frank’s experience, and my desire for a quality product was all it took.

Together we have made many people happy with a show-case backyard pool and patios.”

It doesn’t matter who is building your home. If you want a pool, call True Blue Pools and Spas and let Frank Leon (right) and Jimmy Carrapezza of True Blue

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 28

them add some of their endless possibilities with your ideas. The combination will astound you, and your neighbors will love you for it. True Blue Pools and Spas can do it all, from new construction to pool renovations, that will add value to your property.

“We look at the house, the backyard, the layout, and see what kind of access and elevations we have, and discuss with the customer what we recommend. We’re not here to simply sell a pool, we’re here to sell a pool that the customer will love and enjoy for years.”

True Blue Pools and Spas quality filtration package reduces time spent in maintaining a pool. With upgrades such as salt chlorine generators, ozoneaters and a quiet pumping system, you’ll have the assurance that the water quality is always ready for swimming.

“We offer many models with various designs of pools made with gunite that will give years of beauty, fun and pleasure. From start to finish you can count on True Blue Pools and Spas to have your backyard pool paradise finished within six to eight weeks,” Jimmy said.

True Blue Pools and Spas use Pebble Tec brand pool finish to help

create the kind of luxurious, durable finish that provides a lifetime of inspiration and relaxation, whether you’re building a new pool or remodeling.

“There are many ways to enjoy the outdoors in Florida. Most will agree the best way to do it is at home with a sparkling pool, outdoor grilling and comfortable lounge chairs to read a book and soak up the sun with family and friends.”

For those who do not want a screen enclosure, True Blue Pools and Spas suggests letting them install a new all-natural misting system that doesn’t use insecticides. It’s a great “eco-friendly” addition to help make your outdoor time around the pool more enjoyable.

“Here at True Blue Pools and Spas we can turn your backyard into an oasis! Adding a pool will give you hours and years of family fun and relaxation.”

For references, free estimate and more information, contact True Blue Pools and Spas at (813) 719-9460 or www.truebluepoolsandspas.com.

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 29

Warren Tree Sales, Inc.

Providing the Best for Your Landscaping Project High quality products / Excellent customer service / Reasonable prices / Locally owned and operated

trees to Miami to install at their new home. In fact, many homeowners were looking for oaks to replace those lost in the hurricane, and honest landscapers and tree installers were hard to come by in that area. Mike took his first load of trees to Miami in early December and never looked back, making weekly trips back and forth for more than five years and installing several thousand trees in all.

By the end of 1993, Mike and Lynne had married, and while she was still working at Tampa Electric Company, she also began handling all book-keeping functions for the then still informally named Warren Tree Sales. Now, with a wife and stepson at home, Mike was growing weary of the trek to Miami and back. Entrepreneur that he is, he set to work devising a way to build his business, not only growing and selling trees, but also installing them, and to do so for a wide array of customers in his home area in and around Plant City.

Left to right Ronnie Rice, Mario Tamayo, Lynne Warren and Mike Warren

When soldier Mike Warren returned to Plant City from his station in Germany in the late 1980’s, he worked a few jobs and then decided the next logical step for his life was to take a few classes at Hillsborough Community College. During his schooling, as a means of income, Mike bought oak trees from his mother’s farm (that his grandfather had started some years back as a hobby), resold them and installed them for homeowners. He also began spending quite a bit of time with a young lady, Lynne Worrell, whom he met in one of his classes.

Apparently, basing his business on providing high-quality products and excellent customer service at reasonable prices was a great choice, because Warren Tree Sales has grown steadily, to the point that in 2003 Lynne left her nearly 20-year career at Tampa Electric in order to devote more time to the family business.

“One of our employees still tells stories to the newer guys, of when I first started full time with the business,” Lynne laughed. “I had bought a truck and a trailer, and he and I delivered and installed trees and did landscaping ourselves. Along with Mike, we were it!”

In August of 1992, Hurricane Andrew devastated south Florida, and

by November homeowners were beginning to rebuild. A family from Miami was visiting the Plant City area, saw what Mike was doing with oak trees and approached him, requesting he bring a load of

Soon after Lynne came on board full time, her father, Ronnie Rice, joined the Warren Tree Sales team. Ronnie had been retired for several years, but really wasn’t the type to play golf or just sit around ‘enjoying retirement’. He needed something to keep him busy, and

A truckload of Washingtonia Palms ready for shipping to a customer

A Ligustrum tree, tied up, ready to load to be shipped to a job.

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 30

Warren Tree Sales offers a variety of trees, palms and plants that are typically in stock on a regular basis

Native style landscape

Warren Tree Sales was now in need of someone dependable. The business was growing and the maintenance of the property and equipment, as well as the daily task of watering all the trees was becoming a full time job – so Mike and Lynne asked Ronnie to come work with them. Ronnie has been a huge asset, and Lynne says he’s a perfectionist. “If he does something, you can be guaranteed it will be done right – probably more than right, in fact!”

Ronnie isn’t the only great employee that this company has been blessed with, though. “Our foreman and our crew are great. We have the best staff around, and our customers seem to think so too.

We are always getting compliments on what a great job they do, and how courteous and conscientious they are,” says Lynne.

Warren Tree Sales sells a wide variety of trees and palms (ranging

Warren Tree Sales is an expert in tree re-locations

in size from 6-8’ tall Pygmy Date Palms and 12’ tall shade trees to 20-30’ specimen palms) to local landscapers, contractors and homeowners, as well as provides installation for their products. The company also provides full landscape services, both commercial and residential for customers who are looking for landscaping incorporating trees and/or palms. Another specialty area is screening material (large plants that provide an instant screen from neighbors, roadways, golf courses or anything else a customer wants to block out), which typically beats the look of a fence.

In 2001, Warren Tree Sales moved to 1204 North Frontage Road (along I-4 just off Park Road at Exit 22) from their Dover location on the Warren’s home property. Now with 11 full-time employees at your service, call them at (813) 967-5352 or (813) 927-1288 for all of your large landscaping needs.

Construction site one day, home the next

Before and after

BUSINESS FOCUS PLANT CITY • Part 1 of 3 PG 31