FOCUS Plant City 24-04

GraceWay Church:

PASTOR DEWAYNE & SHERYL HOWARD ON ‘LOVING GOD, LOVING PEOPLE, & LOVING THE COMMUNITY

ALSO INSIDE

2025 Easter Church Service Guide

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Contents Table of

FOCUS PLANT CITY

focusplantcity.com Issue 24-03 / March 2025 PUBLISHER Mike Floyd

mikef@floydpublications.com

MANAGING EDITOR Cierra Craft

cierra@floydpublications.com

ART DIRECTOR

Anthony Sassano anthony@floydpublications.com

OFFICE MANAGER Candy Owens

cowens@floydpublications.com

DISTRIBUTION Tony DeVane STAFF WRITERS Cheryl Johnston Taylor McDonald CONTRIBUTORS Candy Owens David Moon Dr. Chap. Dan Middlebrooks

Got a story idea?

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Contact us for more information.

Floyd Publications, Inc. 702 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd.

Plant City, FL 33563 Office 813.707.8783 Standards of accuracy: The goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-warming stories that are accurate from the start. Being human, however, we sometimes make mistakes. Please forgive us.

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FEATURE:

EASTER SERVICE GUIDE Local churches will celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ on April 20. This feature will serve as a schedule of events for you and your family, from egg hunts to worship services.

35 GRACEWAY CHURCH

So if you notice anything that is incorrect, then please do not hesitate to contact the editorial department and inform it about the fact error. To do so, call (813) 7078783 or e-mail editorial@floydpublications.com. The staff will fix the error in a timely manner.

FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants and many local venues.

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.

SPOTLIGHT:

www.focusplantcity.com

In 2020, GraceWay Church opened its doors in Springhead under the leadership of Pastor DeWayne Howard and his wife, Sheryl. As the church prepares to celebrate Easter and its fifth anniversary, Pastor D and Sheryl talk about a new vision taking shape at GraceWay Church.

Photo: McIntosh Preserve 2024 PAGE

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OUR VISION

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Promising a sparkling, safe, and enjoyable swimming oasis for our valued customers all year round!

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PUBLISHER

From The

Publisher

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As we wrap up the spring and head into summer, I think of family, friends, and faith.

I am looking forward to the Easter holiday on April 20 and spending time with my two sons, who are growing up much too quickly. It is important to me that we create memories as a family and build on traditions in celebration of the Resurrection. May you and your family have a blessed and Happy Easter.

EASTER JOY

On the front cover, we spotlight GraceWay Church’s pastor, DeWayne Howard, and his wife, Sheryl. Together, they’ve led the church to incredible growth over recent years, and as GraceWay prepares for Easter Sunday service, “Pastor D” wants to share a message with our community.

School will be out about six weeks after this issue is published. We’ve included some summer camp and “staycation” ideas for the whole family in this issue. We hope you will take advantage of all our community has to offer.

If you have a story idea, need to promote your upcoming event, or want to spotlight an accomplishment or youth sports team, please email our editor at cierra@ floydpublications.com for consideration.

With gratitude and hope,

Mike Floyd

2025

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Community

FOCUS

CHECK IN WITH PLANT CITY

In Loving Memory

BILLY HEROLD

Plant City Garden Club Accepting Scholarship Applications

By Cierra Craft

T

he Plant City Garden Club will award two $1,000 scholarships in May. To be eligible for consideration, students must be a local high school senior pursuing a career in one of the following six fields of study: Biology, Botany, Conservation and/or Forestry, Environmental Studies, Horticulture, or Landscape Design.

Scholarship application forms are available online at plantcitygardenclub. com. The deadline to apply is May 1st. Applicants must submit a personal letter describing their background, goals, commitment to their chosen career, and how their goals support the Plant City Garden Club’s Mission Statement. Two letters of recommendation from instructors/professors at your school or college are required. A list of honors, extracurricular activities, military service, work experience, and a copy of transcripts from the school or college, are also required.

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It is with GREAT SADNESS that Plant City has lost a TRUE ICON! We lost Billy Herold after a courageous battle with THAT HORRIBLE DISEASE CALLED CANCER. Billy fought with GRACE AND DIGNITY !!! HE GAVE HIS FIGHT EVERYTHING HE HAD ! IT WAS A SHORT BATTLE ! THE GOOD LORD HAD OTHER PLANS FOR BILLY. HE WENT ON TO HEAVEN AND IS NOW FREE FROM PAIN AND SICKNESS. BILLY WILL BE MISSED. BILLY WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. PLANT CITY WILL NEVER BE THE SAME !!!

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Community

FOCUS

CHECK IN WITH PLANT CITY

New Plant City Royalty Crowned at Two Pageants

By Cierra Craft

O

n March 16, the excitement and talent of local contestants shone brightly at the Southwest Central Florida Scholarship Competition as the preliminary Miss America scholarship competition awarded 12 titles.

The event, held at Branscomb Auditorium located on the Florida Southern College Campus in Lakeland, celebrated the dedication and achievements of young women from the community. The winners in the teen delegate categories included: • Miss Lakeland Teen - Larkin Mainwaring • Miss Polk County Teen - Elizabeth Lemeur • Miss Swan City Teen- Liliana Funtal • Miss Plant City Teen – Anniston Griffin • Miss Florida Blueberry Teen – Bailey Scheel • Miss Hillsborough County Teen – Taylor Gregory • 2nd Runner up Teen - Claire Thomas • 1st Runner up Teen - Madison Parolini In a thrilling display of talent, the Kronhaus Talent Award in the Teen division was presented to Larkin Mainwaring The winners in the miss delegate categories included: • Miss Lakeland - Maci Miotto • Miss Polk County - Jada Brown • Miss Swan City - Emerson Ward • Miss Plant City - Kaleigh Salmon • Miss Florida Blueberry - Samantha Jacobson

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• Miss Hillsborough County - Juliana Fray • 2nd Runner up Miss - Victoria Sonza • 1st Runner up Miss - Angelina Eidson The competition also recognized outstanding talent performances for the Kronhaus Talent Award and it went to Miss Angelina Eidson and Samantha Jacobson.

Taking home the honor of the Teen People’s Choice Award went to Tyirr Gray and the Miss People’s Choice Award went to A’Mya Roberts The winners will move forward to represent their titles at the upcoming Miss Florida competition.

Youkey Theater, RP Funding Center, Lakeland, Florida June 25th thru June 28th, 2025.

“We are incredibly proud of all our delegates and their incredible performances,” said Gail Domedion, Vice President of Crowning Leaders Foundation.

“Each participant brings something unique to the stage, and their commitment to personal and community goals is truly inspiring.” For more information about the Miss America Organization and upcoming events, please visit MissFlorida.org On March 23, Sunburst Beauty Pageants held its Plant City Preliminary pageant at the Plant City Woman’s Club on Wheeler

Street. The winners will compete in the state competition in Orlando in May 2025. Winners from the state competition will advance to the Sunburst International Finals held in July in Orlando.

The Plant City Preliminary winners include: • Baby Queens - Vivianna Mendoza and Paisley Horan • Tiny Queen - Magnolia Moylan • Little Queen - Aaliyah Fratz • Overall Baby Queen - Lily Hardin • Pee Wee Queen - Raelynne Maxson • Little Miss Queen - Eleanor Sanford • Pre-Teen Queen - Meyan Reid • Elegant Miss Queens - Jennifer McDermott and Shawna Eisenhart • Overall Queen - Noah Keys Sunburst Beauty Pageants was founded in Florida in 1976 by Theresa Spooner, and soon grew to a nationwide competition pageant. According to its website, Sunburst’s mission was, and still is, to provide wholesome competition that the entire family can enjoy.

To learn more about Sunburst Beauty Pageants, visit sunburstbeauty.com.

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Community

FOCUS

CHECK IN WITH PLANT CITY

Enjoying the Summer in Plant City

By Cierra Craft

S

oon, school will be out for summer and families will be looking for summer camps, parks, and activities in and around Plant City. Here is your guide to summer “staycations” in and around the city:

Plant City Summer Camp

Plant City Park & Recreation Summer Camps are weekly camps, each focused on helping athletes sharpen their skills. Week 1 (June 16 to 19) is Tennis Camp; week 2 (June 23 to 26) is Flag Football Camp; week 3 (July 7 to 10) is Soccer Camp; and week 4 (July 28 to 31) is Basketball Camp. Contact recinfo@plantcitygov.com for more information on registration.

Plant City Family YMCA kicks off summer camp on June 2 through August 8, sure to keep your kids active with swimming, arts & crafts, nature education, team building and more! For more information on registration and camp requirements, contact the Plant City Family YMCA at 813-757-6677.

Spotlight Showcase Summer Camp is perfect for the actor, singer or dancer in your life, for ages 1st to 8th grade. This full-day camp includes script writing, prop building, choreography, acting and improv. Register at www.spotlightpc.com

Peruse the Parks

Enjoy one of the city and county’s many parks, including fishing at Edward Medard Park or the PAGE

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playground at Burchwood Park. Rent a canoe or kayak at Hillsborough River State Park and cruise along the river. Rentals are available for $25 for the first two hours and $5 for each additional hour. A canoe/kayak launch is available at parking lot #4.

McIntosh Preserve is a destination park with approximately 425 acres of various habitats, including wetlands and an assortment of pines, oaks, cypresses, and magnolias. There’s also a nearby playground for the kids, and benches and picnic areas line the trail at various points. Pack a lunch, wear sneakers, and hike through this nature preserve.

Patio Hop for Dinner

Don’t let your outdoor adventures stop when it comes time for dinner. Meet for 14-ounce smoked ribeyes on the patio at Johnson Barbeque, served only on Friday and Saturday nights after 5 pm. Grab a bite at Propagation Whiskey Bar & Kitchen and enjoy chef-made meals and smoky drinks on the patio. Grab a glass of wine at Roots Tap Room & Wine Bar and enjoy views of downtown Plant City.

Shop for Fresh Local Produce

Parkesdale Farm Market is great for fresh produce, jarred sauces, salsas and jams, and a cooldown dessert. Take your milkshake or Dole whip into the greenhouse and peruse the flowers, trees, and garden decor selection. Then, take a photo in the strawberry throne, a market landmark.

Photo credit FloVibez Adventure Tours Facebook

Fancy Farms Market will be open with their blueberry and peach desserts throughout the summer and now offers lunch at prices that can’t be beaten. Enjoy a Cuban sandwich, BBQ pulled pork, or a fresh salad at the barn. They have a selection of fresh produce available, including black eyed peas, greens, squash and more. Then, go out in the field and clip fresh zinnias and sunflowers to take home.

Visit Fancy Farms Market on Facebook for more dates on field openings.

Shop and Dine Small

Beat the summer heat and shop at our local boutiques and businesses. RAOK Boutique and Russell’s Western Wear, both located on the south side of Plant City, offer clothing, shoes, and gifts for everyone.

Downtown, shop for a new outfit at Sweet Roots Apparel or pick up a gift at Fringe Boutique. Finally, let the kids get in on the shopping at Brick City Bricks, a veteran-owned LEGO shop in the heart of downtown.

Finally, dine at any of our local restaurants, including snoballs and ice cream at Pelican’s Snoballs to beat the heat or at Duke’s Brewhouse, enjoy a kids eat free special on Monday nights.

Grab a slice of pizza from Hungry Howie’s buffet or order a whole pie at Mo’s Pizza Kitchen on 92. The number of locally owned restaurants is endless here in Plant City, giving you variety each week.

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Plant City History & Photo Archives Intern Program Opens for Applications

P

lant City History & Photo Archives has announced that its Intern Program is open for applications for the Summer 2025 Term. The program is designed to provide students with the opportunity to gain experience in archives and history center skills in a real-life setting.

The Intern Program was initiated in 2010 and has provided high schoollevel students, college undergraduate students and graduate students learning opportunities in institution operations, accession and documentation procedures, historical research and writing, and archiving techniques.

The program is structured to be flexible in scheduling and each intern is monitored by both a mentor and by the organization’s director. Programs of work are set out in advance and interns are provided with formats for daily journal entries and checklists. After the completion of the schedule the intern is presented with an evaluation, a certificate, and a final report.

Applications for the Summer 2025 Term may be submitted beginning April 24 and must be received no later than June 6, 2025.

Interested students can obtain additional information and an application form by visiting the Photo Archives office or by emailing the program director at gil@plantcityphotoarchives.org. The office is open for business Tuesday through Friday 9:30 AM until 6:00 PM at 106 South Evers Street in downtown Plant City. The office telephone number is 813.754.1578 or you may email info@ plantcityphotoarchives.org..

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The Florida Strawberry Festival’s Board of Directors Announces New Board Chairman

P

am Warnock, who has served as a board member for 23 years, was named chairman and succeeds Danny Coton, who has served as chairman for the past two years. Jon Poppell was elected vice chairman along with Dr. Michael Salvato, who was elected secretary, and William (Billy) Keel, who was elected treasurer.

“Pam Warnock is an outstanding leader with a deep commitment to our community and the Florida Strawberry Festival,” said Kyle Robinson, President of the Florida Strawberry Festival. “Her passion and vision for the Festival will help us continue to grow and bring joy to our guests year after year. I am excited to collaborate with her during her term as chairman.”

The Festival’s board of directors comprises community leaders who volunteer their time and talents to help make the Festival a nationally recognized event. Each year, four board members are elected to serve on the executive board, comprising a chairman, vice chairman, secretary, and treasurer. Generally, each chairman has previously served two years in each office before being elected to the highest office.

“Danny Coton has been an incredible asset to the Festival, and his leadership has been instrumental in our success,” Robinson continued. “Under his guidance, the Festival reached new heights, and we are grateful for his dedication and the lasting impact he has had. We look forward to building on the strong foundation he has helped create as we enter this exciting new chapter under Pam’s leadership.”

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Kaylan

Kelly People of Plant City

By Cheryl Johnston

P

lant City native Kaylan Kelly has just accepted her medical residency assignment in pediatrics at Nemours Children’s Hospital in Orlando. She’s also newly engaged to Conner Crichton, so it’s been an eventful year.

After earning her Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (with a minor in Medical Sociology) at the University of Central Florida, she attended medical school in Clearwater at Nova Southeastern University. Kaylan credits her fiancé for his “unwavering support” through the educational rigors and looks forward to this next chapter in her career with him.

The 27-year-old future pediatrician discovered her passion for medicine when her mother, Dr. Cindy Kelly, was diagnosed with stage IV metastatic breast cancer the week she left for college at UCF. She remembers “feeling helpless and wanting to help other families like my own who felt the same.”

Describe your family.

I’m the oldest of three children born to my parents, Matt and Dr. Cindy Kelly. While my brothers, twins Ayden and Shelby, and I were growing up, our family loved trips together and spending lots of time at the softball and baseball fields. My dad is a photographer, so we have plenty of memory-capturing picture albums that tell our stories. He also takes great care of our family’s dogs, Misha and Benny.

You have always been physically active, right?

Yes, softball played a huge role in my life and shaped a lot of my experiences. It was a place where I learned valuable lessons, and it became an important part of who I am. I have been weightlifting for eight years and competed in my first powerlifting meet during my second year of medical school. Last year, I started running and recently ran two half marathons in the span of three months!

In what other ways do you reIax and unwind?

I also enjoy cooking, reading, and playing volleyball, pickle ball, and other sports with friends.

Describe a little of your journey to becoming a doctor.

I’ve had some incredible rotations during medical school, but one that really stands out was my prison rotation, during which I cared for patients in a correctional facility.

I learned about the unique challenges of providing healthcare in that setting. One experience that left a lasting impression on me was working with a patient who had an inoperable neck tumor. I was able to advocate for his medical clemency request, which allowed him to pass away peacefully at home. It was a tough but rewarding experience as it challenged me to provide compassionate care in a very complex environment. I also had a rotation in pediatric hematology/oncology, where I worked closely with children and families navigating serious diagnoses. This experience sparked my interest in the field, and I’m drawn to it for my future career.

What do you expect to love most about being a pediatrician?

I believe it will be the genuine connections I’ll build with children and their families. I find so much joy in earning a child’s trust and being a steadfast source of support for their family through both routine visits and difficult moments. I also love that pediatrics allows me to empower families through education and advocacy, helping them make informed decisions and instilling healthy habits that can shape a child’s future. Beyond that, I’m drawn to the resilience and wonder that children bring, and I know their courage and spirit will inspire me, even on the hardest days.

What advice would you offer people in general?

Be present and cherish moments with your loved ones because you never know how much time you’ll have. After my mom’s diagnosis, I didn’t know what the future held, but I chose to stay by her side through it all. Looking back, the small moments—whether we were talking about her treatment or just sitting together—are the ones I hold closest.

Life can get busy, but it’s the quiet, everyday moments that become the memories you’ll treasure forever. So, slow down, be present, and make time for the people who matter most. I believe that being present, no matter what life throws at you, is what truly matters.

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DID YOU KNOW?

Dover Pentacostal Easter Banquet 1973

Easter and Plant City’s Interdenominational Celebrations Writers in Residence Program Dr. Scotty & Hsiu Huang History Center Plant City History & Photo Archives

P

lant City has been a city of churches since its early days. While many of Plant City’s earliest founding families were either Baptist or Methodist, other early Plant City residents worshipped in other denominations. Presbyterian services date back, according to Plant City, its Origins and History by Bruton and Bailey, to 1884.

Episcopal services date back to Plant City in 1889.

Roman Catholic services date back to at least 1912 through the efforts of a Jesuit mission.

The growth of Christian congregations continued well in the 20th century. Assembly of God, Disciples of Christ, Church of Christ, Church of God, Latter Day Saints, Lutheran, Nazarene and Pentecostal churches all flourished in the 1970s in Plant City.

It is noteworthy that these residents made it a priority to build churches that have left a legacy for future generations. Today we have numerous houses of worship representing different architectural styles and influenced by the year of initial construction.

Some have histories that are so noteworthy that the building itself has been recognized as a historical monument.

Despite the churches competing for attendance, souls and support, Plant City churches showed remarkable ecumenical cooperation even with doctrinal differences. In 1997, Dave Nicholson of the Tampa Tribune wrote that, “No one seems to know exactly when Plant City ministers began sharing pulpits at community worship services. It started long ago when churches decided to cooperate on a

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noontime Good Friday service so people who work during the day could worship on their lunch hours.”

Remarkedly, even leaders of churches formed from splits with another congregation came together to cooperate in holding annual community Easter week services, starting with Maundy (or Holy) Thursday.

The Rev. Don Mason of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church spoke of Plant City’s tradition of community Easter services to the Tampa Tribune, “It has always been a tradition to hold the community service.”

Easter in Marie B. Ellis Park 1967

For example, the community’s Good Friday service in 2002 was held at noon Friday at First United Methodist Church on Evers Street. The next day, an Easter Egg hunt was held in the area of Cherry and Park Roads between the HCC campus and the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex. The weekend culminated with an early service on Easter Sunday at Lakeside Park on Timberlane Drive in the Walden Lake subdivision.

Plant City’s Easter week activities reinforced the belief that Christians who belong to different denominations can try to work together to develop closer relationships. While families often remember Easter as a time for searching for hidden treasures in the yard or as a time to try on new clothes, these joint Easter week celebrations also helped build community across religious lines, strengthening the growing city.

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APRIL 20 LOCAL CHURCHES CELEBRATE THE EASTER WEEKEND

The Resurrection Sunday weekend is big for area churches as they celebrate the risen Christ with special services and events. Below is a schedule of events:

LIFE FAMILY CHURCH 600 W Dr MLK Jr Blvd, 813-708-2783 lifefamilychurch.net April 20: Special Communion Services @ 10:30 AM & 6:30 PM FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF PLANT CITY 3309 James L. Redman Parkway 813-752-4104 www.fbcpc.com April 20: Easter Sunday Service: Worship 9 am & 10:30 am PLANT CITY CHURCH OF GOD 2103 Mud Lake Road 813-752-4591 April 18: Good Friday Service @ 7 p.m.

April 20: Walden Lake Park Sunrise Service @ 7:15 a.m.

ST. CLEMENT CATHOLIC CHURCH 1104 N. Alexander Street, Plant City FL 33563 813-752-8251 stclementpc.org April 19: Easter Vigil Bilingual @ 8 p.m.

April 20: Easter Sunrise (English) @ 6:15 a.m.; Easter Mass (Bilingual) 11 a.m.; Easter Mass (Spanish) 8:30 am & 8:45 a.m.

TURKEY CREEK FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 4915 W Trapnell Road, Plant City, FL 33566 (813) 752-7890 www.tcfbc.org April 17: Maudy Thursday @ 6 p.m.

April 20: “Son” Risen Service @ 8:30 a.m.

April 20: “He Is Risen Indeed” Celebration @ 10:30 a.m.

GRACEWAY CHURCH 3106 S Wiggins Road, Plant City, FL 33566 813-752-4879 www.GraceWay365.com April 19: Easter Eggstravaganza Egg Hunt, Games, etc. (Free) @ 11 a.m.

April 20: Easter Sunday Worship @ 9 a.m. or 11 a.m.

TRANSFORMING LIFE CHURCH 3805 Turkey Creek Road, Plant City, FL 33566 813-754-5372 tlchurchpc.com April 18: Glow-in-the-Dark Easter Egg Hunt @ 6 p.m.

April 20: Easter Worship Experience @ 10 a.m.

THE CROSSING CHURCH PLANT CITY CAMPUS 507 S Wheeler St, Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 626-0783 wearecrossing.com April 18: Good Friday Service @ 7 pm April 20: Easter Sunday @ 9 am & 11 am HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH 2001 N. Park Rd, Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 752-4622 hopeplantcity.com/home April 18: Good Friday Service @ 6:30 p.m.

April 20: Breakfast, 8 a.m.; English Worship, 9:15 a.m.; Spanish Worship, 4 p.m.

ST. PETER’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 302 N. Carey Street, Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 752-5061 April 20: Holy Eucharist 8 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

April 20: Easter Breakfast 9:15 a.m. & Egg Hunt 9:45 a.m.

FAITH LIGHTHOUSE CHURCH 3409 Paul Buchman Hwy, Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 752-1885 mylighthouse.church/easter April 18: Glow Easter Egg Hunt @ 7:30 a.m.

April 20: Easter Sunday Worship @ 9 a.m. & 11 a.m.

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A living testament to the power of knowledge, neighborhoods, and tradition

GENERATIONS OF MEMORIES: A Legacy at Cork School

By Cheryl Johnston

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“School days, school days, dear old Golden Rule days...”

F

or many, those lyrics penned in 1907 by Will D. Cobb and Gus Edwards, evoke nostalgia. Though this tale isn’t about childhood sweethearts, the shared memories of the Miley, Richey, Wilkerson, and Tears families reflect a love for one very special place—Cork School. This local institution has educated generations of related students, some spanning over a century. It’s a living testament to the power of knowledge, neighborhoods, and tradition.

Brief History

Founded in 1879, Cork Academy originally served students from Primer through Grade 9. Situated at 3501 Cork Road in Plant City, its mission continues today as Cork Elementary School. Over its 146 years, Cork has educated countless children, including many who, like the families in this story, grew up on nearby strawberry farms.

In the mid-1900s, when the region’s strawberry harvests peaked, many local “strawberry schools,” including Cork, accommodated the farming cycle with a modified calendar so students could work in the fields.

Memories of those days still hold a special place in those attendees’ hearts.

Family Connections

For the Miley, Richey, Wilkerson, and Tears families, Cork School represents more than a local institution; it’s a thread that ties together generations of community and personal history.

Their story began with Josephine Sanchez Miley and Harvey Miley, who raised four children—Kenneth, Patty, Robert, and Judy. Patty Miley and Thomas Richey Jr. attended the school, and their own children, Linda and David, followed suit. Over the decades, this legacy continued with the children and grandchildren attending and two now teaching there.”

Patty Miley Richey Armstrong fondly recalls that her parents, Josephine and Harvey, her mother-in-law Berta Martin Richey, and Berta’s sisterin-law Ruby all attended Cork, sometime between 1913 and the 1930s.

In her own grades 1-9 Cork years, Patty rode her bike to school and remembers how Principal Larry Walden once took her to a softball game because her parents’ car broke down. This memory displays the warmth of the school’s leadership and personal connections that defined her experience. “I’ll never forget that day. He didn’t have to do that, but he did. That’s what Cork felt like—personal and caring.”

Patty substituted at Cork when her daughter Linda was 3-4 years old.

Her now deceased first husband, Thomas, loved to recall how a plane crashed on Thonotosassa Road shortly after WWII and many boys jumped out of the school’s windows and ran to collect pieces of the plane.

Dave Richey, Patty’s son, remembers Cork during the 1960s when rapid population growth and overcrowded classrooms were normal.

His school days were marked by open windows with no screens to keep the bugs out, the memorable family trip when they heard news of President Kennedy’s assassination, mischievous science “experiments,” and the first day in second grade when the teacher sent five Davids to the office so they could reassign a few. And who could forget 5th grade, when Mrs. Potter let students play dodgeball until lunchtime while she

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“... Cork School represents more than a local institution; it’s a thread that ties together generations of community and personal history.”

GENERATIONS OF MEMORIES

napped under a shade tree. “I didn’t learn much that year, but it was the best.

Special for the simple things, Cork always felt like home.” Later, Dave’s children – Chris and Michelle – and grandchildren attended, continuing the family’s dedication to education.

Linda Richey Wilkerson, Patty’s daughter, who attended Cork in grades 1-5, cherishes the positive attitudes that surrounded the school. Fourth grade was a favorite because Mrs. Snowden “made math fun and introduced exciting weekly prizes for good grades. It wasn’t just about learning; it was about making memories,” Linda reflects. “I remain in touch with some Cork friends, and we still talk about those days.” Summer swimming lessons are cherished and nostalgic recollections, too, when she and classmates rode a bus from school to a nearby pool. She notes, “The school and church were central points of community for us.”

Her children—Will, Blane, and Preston—later attended Cork, continuing the tradition. One memorabilia piece from this era is an old desk with an inkwell, which Linda passed down to her son. This tie to the past now serves Preston’s homeschooled children in their literal one-room schoolhouse on their property.

“I can’t imagine that desk ever leaving us,” she says. “It’s a link to something we’ll always treasure.”

Today’s Cork Tapestry

The Cork memories continue with Michelle Richey Tears, David’s daughter, who values the lifelong Cork friendships. As a child, she met her best friend, Carol Plunk. “We were always together, running around Cork after school. We even kept in touch through the years, and our own children have attended, keeping that circle going.” Michelle is especially grateful they’ve experienced that same

Cork teachers in 1930

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GENERATIONS OF MEMORIES

nurturing environment. “Cork has always been a place of love and faith,” she says. “I’m proud my kids are part of that.”

Chris Richey, 42, and his wife, Ashley Richey and their two children, sixth-grader Avery (at Tomlin Middle School now) and fourth-grader Everett, are Cork fans. Although Ashley didn’t attend, she teaches math there now and loves the “comradery with wonderful co-workers.” Everett enjoys “hearing family history” from his relatives. Chris particularly remembers his 5th grade year when teachers brought in fun, brain-challenging activities, and the unforgettable teacher-student kickball game. “It wasn’t just about learning; it was about feeling part of something bigger.”

Will Wilkerson, 38, Linda’s son, and his sons William, 10 and Westyn, 8, shared stories that further illustrate Cork’s deep roots. Will recalls his female educators from grades 1-5: Johnson, Tanner, Smedley, Principal Barbara Sanderson, Townsend, and Raulerson (pastor’s wife at Bethany Baptist), who taught the moral virtues using silver boxes in her reading/writing class, which students memorized. He also shared, “Teachers kept us away from an in-process retention pond dig because water moccasin snakes were mating. And I still see those bulky, colored Apple computers and Mr. Cameron (who taught Uncle Dave and his brothers Blane and Preston as well), “using an orangewood gavel to get our attention.” Today Will is proud that William is a National Elementary Honor Society member who’s drawn his first comic book with his cousin Everett. William said, “It feels good to know my family is watching me.” His brother Westyn, a second grader, had the unique first-year experience of being taught by both cousins, Ashley Richey and Reagan Tears.

Kyle Jacob Tears, 26, Michelle’s son, attended grades K-5 at Cork from 2003-09 and today teaches theater at Lennard High School. He’s featured in a YouTube video documenting his “K for Kyle” participation in the kindergarten Alphabet Activity (https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=CPUbMqIYxkI). His memorable teachers are Ms. Cabrera, media specialist Ms. Devane, music teacher “Ms. E,” and Coach Anne St. Charles. His 1st grade teacher, Mrs. Carol Plunk, still tells the story about her proclaiming, “I made your brain grow,” after discovering his football helmet was too tight.

Reagan Tears, 24, now a Cork educator and “hallway bestie” with her aunt, Ashley Richey, has come full circle, recalling her student years with amazing teachers like Mrs. Cabrera and Mrs. Plunk: “They shaped me, and now I’m back in the classroom, doing the same thing for others.”

Looking Forward

The stories from the Miley, Richey, Wilkerson, and Tears families remind us that Cork School is a living legacy.

United by their shared experiences and the Cork-instilled values of kindness to others, hard work, and academic pursuit, they appreciate how the school shaped their lives and continues through their children and grandchildren.

Thankfully, that desk, the cherished friendships, the memorable teachers and the families’ sharing will keep the Cork story alive for generations to come.

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By His Grace:

DeWayne and Sheryl Howard of GraceWay Church

By Cierra Craft

The GraceWay congregation enjoys worshipping God through singing, praying, and hearing God’s word together.

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DeWayne and Sheryl Howard of GraceWay Church

Plant City witnessed a spiritual rebirth in January 2020. What was once Springhead Baptist Church closed its doors, and from its foundation, GraceWay Church emerged, led by Pastor DeWayne Howard. Arriving in August 2019, Pastor DeWayne, with his wife Sheryl by his side, embarked on a mission fueled by a simple yet powerful vision: to love God, people, and their community. From a modest gathering of 25-30 people, GraceWay has blossomed into a vibrant church family of over 300, a testament to God’s grace and the community’s desire to have a relationship with Him. GraceWay’s commitment extends beyond its walls. It actively collaborates with local nonprofits, charities, and missions around the world. As GraceWay approaches its fifth anniversary this October, the Howards envision planting GraceWay campuses across Florida, aiming for a “big church quality, small church feel.”

This Easter, GraceWay Church extends a warm invitation to the community to experience the message of hope and resurrection. With a strong emphasis on building relationships and spreading the message of grace, GraceWay Church is more than just a place of worship; it’s a beacon of hope for Plant City and beyond.

GraceWay Church visits countries around the globe to spread the word of God. Sheryl Howard (center right) is in West Africa with a group of locals, telling them about God.

Our goal is to provide an atmosphere with a high-quality, small-church feel... to reach people with the message of God’s love and grace Pastor DeWayne, GraceWay is celebrating five years this October. Can you give us a brief history of the church and some of its milestones?

I arrived in Plant City in August 2019 and began pastoring the former Springhead Baptist Church. In January 2020, the doors of Springhead Baptist Church were closed, and GraceWay Church began. Since that time, with about 25-30 people in attendance, we have now grown to a Church Family of over 300 people. We have done that by establishing ourselves as a church that loves the Lord, loves people, and loves our community.

Over the last five years, we’ve successfully renovated all of our facilities and continue to improve them to help us effectively reach our community. Each year, we hold several major outreach events and are constantly serving out in our community, providing a message of hope. We will be celebrating our 5th anniversary as GraceWay Church this coming October, and we look forward to what God has in store for the future of GraceWay Church.

Since 2020, GraceWay Church has grown exponentially from 25 to 30 members to a church family with over 300 members.

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Please tell us how you came to have faith in Christ.

Pastor: I chose to follow Christ as a 7-year-old while attending Madison Street Baptist Church in McMinnville, Tennessee, where my family attended at the time.

Our family moved to East Tennessee, where my brother and I started attending Cedar Grove Baptist Church, where I accepted the call to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ at the age of 10. At that point, I dedicated my life to serving God in ministry, and I am a graduate of Andersonville Theological Seminary, where I

DeWayne and Sheryl Howard of GraceWay Church

focused on theology and ministry. I believe my greatest learning takes place daily in my quiet time with the Lord and consistent study of the Word of God. Over the years, I have served in student ministry, as a full-time evangelist, church planter, and pastor.

Mrs. Sheryl, how has your role supported the church’s growth and stability?

I have been the Ministry Assistant here at GraceWay for over five years. Over that time, I’ve helped oversee many areas in the Church, such as event coordination, media and communications, daily support to all Pastoral Staff, management of the GraceWay Office, IT and Technical support, and many other roles and responsibilities. In saying that, however, I feel my primary role is to support my husband as Lead Pastor of GraceWay Church and to be his helpmate in all things.

Please tell us about some of the ministries and missions the church takes part in.

Pastor: We believe in the Acts 1:8 strategy of taking the gospel to the whole world, starting at home. We partner with local ministries and community organizations such as the Pregnancy Care Center of Plant City, the United Food Bank of Plant City, Lighthouse Ministries, and other local mission work. We also currently send teams to Ecuador and Africa each year, where we are starting churches by sharing the gospel, holding kids’ Bible clubs, and holding outreach events in local communities and villages.

Each week at our GraceWay Church Plant City campus, we provide a vibrant and growing ministry to kids, students, and adults. We also offer small groups for adults of all ages that meet throughout the week at different times and locations. We have a GraceWay Homeschool Co-op, Pre-K through 12th grade, that meets weekly to support the Homeschool families around our community.

Speaking of international trips, Mrs. Sheryl, please tell us more about Transformation Ministries International.

I hear you’re planning a big trip; can you give us the details?

Sheryl: Transformation Ministries International (TMI, Inc.) is our personal ministry, founded in 1997. TMI conducts revivals, crusades, and outreach events around the world.

We are also involved in starting new churches and training church leaders to impact their areas with the gospel of Jesus Christ. We are hosting an upcoming tour to Israel in February 2026, the Israel Encounter. During this tour, we will encounter the land of the Bible, walk where Jesus walked, visit many historical and biblical sites, and provide special teachings along the way. You will connect with the Bible in a way like never before. For more information on this trip, visit IsraelEncounter.org.

Pastor DeWayne and Sheryl Howard came to Plant City in 2019 and transformed Springhead Baptist Church, with a church membership of 25 people, into GraceWay Church. Today, the church has 300+ members.

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DeWayne and Sheryl Howard of GraceWay Church

Pastor DeWayne (right) considers it an honor to baptize people as they go public with their faith in Jesus Christ.

Pastor, what message do you hope to convey to the congregation during your Easter service? What Easter traditions do you have as a family?

Pastor: On Easter Sunday, April 20th, GraceWay Church will provide services at 9 and 11 a.m., with GraceWay Kids for birth to fifth grade available for all services. The services aim to present the message that the story isn’t over. What looked like defeat on Friday turned into victory on Sunday. Because Jesus rose from the grave, we have hope beyond the hardest chapters of our lives. The hope of the resurrection of Jesus Christ assures us that the story isn’t over!

GraceWay Church is hosting our upcoming Easter Eggstravaganza on Saturday, April 19th, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This is a free event open to the community, where you’ll have the opportunity to take family photos, participate in graded egg hunts, get your face painted, participate in different activities and yard games, enjoy free food options, ride the trackless train, meet some animals at our petting zoo, and so much more! Make sure to pre-register at GraceWay365.com/events.

Our family has no specific Easter traditions besides gathering with our church family and worshipping God. We believe that we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus (Easter) every day as we love God and love people.

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What are your hopes and dreams for the future of GraceWay Church?

Pastor: GraceWay Church is committed to reaching the 86% of the population in the state of Florida that has no relationship to God or a church. We believe that God has given us the dream of opening a campus of GraceWay in every county in the state of Florida to reach people with the message of God’s love and grace. Our goal is to provide an atmosphere with a high-quality, small-church feel. Nobody wants to be a number, so we strive for a strong relationship with God and people. Our dream is to make sure that no one misses the grace of God, based on Hebrews 12:15.

What is something people may be surprised to learn about you?

Pastor: I have been a professional wedding officiant for over 30 years. I perform wedding ceremonies for couples all over the southeastern United States to help them create fun, personal, and unforgettable ceremonies. I enjoy helping couples celebrate one of the most special milestones of their lives. As part of my services, I also provide pre- and post-marital counseling for wedding couples. Anyone who wants more information about my services can visit my website, WeddingsByPastorD.com.

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BUSINESSPROFILE

Dreams United Ministries Our Mission: We are committed to bringing hope and a future to orphans and the disadvantaged both in our community and around the world.

G

od placed a dream in the heart of Dr. Timothy Williams, a pediatrician in Plant City, Florida, at Plant City Pediatrics.

He also put a dream in the heart of Mary Minja, a teacher, in Mwanza, Tanzania, and united the two, as well as their dreams, to accomplish the Lord’s plans.

Mary Minja worked for five years teaching and providing a place for a few orphaned children. As a teacher she saw the need for an orphanage as children would be found on the streets with no one to care for them. She was unable to continue her plans to build an orphanage, but she continued believing that God would provide, and the dream He placed in her heart would come to fruition.

10/07/2016 Let’s Go - Dr. Williams took a team to Mwanza, Tanzania to visit the site of our future orphanage and received confirmation that this was exactly where God was directing him. The team consisted of Pastor/ Evangelist Doug and Pam Seaman, Pastor John T. Swiney, and Cindy Evers, Mary Kifer and Nita Lyndall who worked at Plant City Pediatrics.

02/2017 The Orphanage - Dreams United Ministries was established, and orphanage construction began. Dreams United Console Orphanage was built and is home to 19 of the most beautiful children who were rescued from dire circumstances. An infant, only a few weeks old, was left on the street, a 2-year-old found in a chicken coup, and others who were left homeless after parents passed away or simply left them. A school is also being built on the grounds to provide quality education for the children. The monthly cost is $150 to provide complete care for each child that includes a teacher at the orphanage, clothing, food, and schooling. Monthly sponsors are needed!

2018 Planting a Church – Land was purchased in Mwanza, Tanzania and Dreams United Mission Church was planted. Pastor Joash Oduwo is the lead pastor, of this church that is impacting the area and lives are being changed.

The church has a school that is much needed in this remote area and has a growing agriculture program providing income for church members through crops, eggs, milk, and animals. This has been a vital asset to this povertystricken area.

Dr. Williams greeting the children in Tanzania.

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Partners Stephen and Jenny Weaver donated the funds to build a freshwater well, a much needed necessity in Tazania. The well opened in 2023.

BUSINESSPROFILE

Dr. Williams took a team to Tanzania to see the future site of the orphanage in October 2016. Four months later, construction on the Dreams United Ministries Orphanage began. The group is looking for monthly sponsors to provide complete care for each child.

Wells – Fresh water is not available to most people in Mwanza, Tanzania. It’s not uncommon to see a child drinking from nothing more than a mud puddle. People walk miles to gather water in buckets from lakes and ponds where people bathe and wash clothes. With the partnership of Jenny and Stephen Weaver and The Core Group we have put in 5 freshwater wells. A well costs approximately $9000 and the need is great.

Crusades – As the ministry expanded, they began hosting crusades where up to 10,000 people would attend in one day to hear the Gospel. They would sit on the ground in the hot sun, some in trees, and many were saved, healed and delivered.

Swahili Bibles – After learning that most students at Lake Victoria Bible College studying to be pastors were unable to afford a Bible, the ministry began providing Swahili Bibles for the students. Bibles are also provided to village churches in need.

Christ’s Daughter’s Foundation – Dreams United Ministries provides monthly support to this home for girls who have been rescued from a life on the streets. The foundation is run by Pastor Zakayo and Carol Nzogere, who after driving through the streets seeing vulnerable girls, felt called to provide a safe home, education, and job training to give them a new start in life.

The primary focus of Dreams United Ministries is in Mwanza, Tanzania, however Dr. Williams also supports local community outreaches that impact the less fortunate. He has five children of his own, and his love for children led him to become a pediatrician where he cares for children in Plant City, Florida.

This has enabled him to also be a blessing to children without hope in other parts of the world.

“TOGETHER WE CAN DO THE IMPOSSIBLE” is a theme of the ministry because they know that this God-given assignment takes partnership. All gifts are tax deductible. To learn more about this ministry that is making a life-changing impact both locally and around the world visit their website at: dreamsunited. org or on Facebook: Dreams United Ministries.

The office is located at 2370 Walden Woods Dr., Plant City, FL 33563 in the same building as Plant City Pediatrics.

Dreams United Ministries Kindergarten

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Gemorama Gem and Mineral Show May 23-25 2025

10 am to 6 pm Friday and Saturday 10 am to 5 pm Sunday

Teco Expo Hall-Strawberry Festival Grounds 2301 W Oak Ave. Plant City, FL 33563

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Plant City, FL 33563 813.777.8624 PAGE

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RISING STAR Rease

Marchese

By Taylor McDonald

W

hen she first started playing tennis in elementary school, Strawberry Crest High School Junior Rease Marchese had no idea it would turn into something she would continue to pursue into high school.

“I’ve always really liked tennis and how you can play it single or in doubles,” said Rease. “In doubles, you get to strategize and learn to work in tandem with someone.”

Rease’s grandfather also played tennis and encouraged her to try it when she was growing up. Her older sister went on to play in high school, and it was then that Rease realized she’d have to work hard if she wanted to continue playing.

“I saw how competitive it was in high school, and it was then that I knew I wanted to do better,” said Rease.

She started practicing 3 times a week, and by her freshman year in high school, she had been playing in school and club leagues.

“I play for my club team all year, and sometimes I have to miss it for my high school matches if they fall on the same day,” said Rease.

“Many times through my high school season, I’ll have a practice or game that falls on the same day so I run from one team to another!”

This season, Rease has focused on her serving and all-around game.

“Our team has only lost 1 district match this year, so it’s looking good for us,” said Rease. “I’ve already qualified for districts for the first time, and I’m excited to see how I play there and all the experience I’ll gain.”

Rease wants to finish it strong for the rest of the season and make it to regionals.

“My goal is to continue working on my game and make it as far as possible,” said Rease.

However, in the future, Rease is focused on going to school for nutritional science and playing on the club tennis team at the University of South Florida.

Check out Rease and the rest of the Strawberry Crest High School tennis team as they make their run in the post-season tournament!

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Girl’s Softball PCHS

By Taylor McDonald

A

s the 2025 season comes to a close, the Plant City High School Girls’ Softball team is looking to finish strong and advance to the post-season tournament.

Coach Brett Mueller, who is in his first year as head coach, sees a bright future ahead for all the players and knows their dedication to the sport yearround.

“Softball isn’t a sport you can just pick up when it’s time for the season,” said Brett. “It’s a sport you must work at all year and stay focused on always improving. They must be disciplined enough to miss parties or weekend trips to work harder at the sport.”

Most players are on the travel team, and Brett coaches them, so he’s seen them grow and improve over the years.

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“These kids have such a bright future, and I’m excited to see how hard they work to finish the season on top,” said Brett. “We’ve never made it to regionals yet, so our goal is to compete there this year. We are currently ranked in the top 8, so if we keep going at this pace, we will have no issue!”

With only a few more games until the postseason kicks off, there are a few players to keep our eyes on.

“Junior Center Fielder Kyleigh Meiers has started for the 3 years she’s been on the team and was the 1st team All-Conference in 2024, batting at .600.”

Next up, Sophomore Sammi Raines plays shortstop and has 5 home runs this year. She was the 1st team All-Conference in 2024 and is currently ranked #2 in the state for the javelin throw in track and field.

“Freshman Taylor Sher plays right field and bats 3rd in just her first year. She’s also great at pitching, and I think she has a very bright future in the sport,” said Brett.

Freshman Rylee Mobley plays center and bats 4th for the team. She’s hit several home runs over the fence and is already being recruited by Division I teams.

“Junior Pitcher Kyleigh Gibbs has over 150 strikeouts in her career and is sure to make a huge impact in her last year of high school,” said Brett.

Be sure to check out these ladies before their season ends next month!

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Medicaid: Humana Medicaid • Simply Healthcare United Health Care Medicaid • Sunshine Health

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Meet the

Maker: Liz Chavez

By Taylor McDonald

S

eeing the beauty in everything – and everyone – is a talent that Liz Chavez has mastered as a makeup artist.

From childhood, Liz always enjoyed experimenting with makeup, but it wasn’t until she was in college that she took action to get to the next step.

“I promised my parents I’d go to college, but when there was a year-long waitlist to get into the program I wanted, I convinced them to let me get my beauty license,” said Liz. In 2008, Liz started her journey as a hair and makeup artist. Over 15 years later, she’s a staple in the Orlando, Tampa, and Plant City areas.

“I do a little bit of everything — weddings, quinceañeras, photoshoots, and pageants,” said Liz. However, the one important thing about these events was her way of connecting with the clients.

“I love to talk and have a good time. To me, it’s all about connecting with my clients and putting them at ease,” said Liz. “I always do my best to ensure my client looks and feels their best.”

While each client is unique, Liz thinks pageants changed her career the most and gave her an even greater edge.

“There really just isn’t anything like them. It’s a much tighter schedule,” said Liz. “We have around 30 to 40 clients and sometimes only get 10 minutes with each.”

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Because of these incredible time constraints, Liz knows how to set herself up for success.

“I have the same routine of applying the makeup and doing the same steps each and every time,” said Liz. “I set up my cart the same way every time, so I don’t need to look down when I’m in the zone.”

During the summertime, when pageants are in full swing, Liz spends weeks away from her home and family to tour with the pageant rotation.

“It’s not easy, but it’s such an experience traveling around Florida and spending weeks living out of one suitcase and moving from hotel to hotel,” said Liz. But being a makeup artist isn’t her only full-time job; she’s also a wife and mom to 2 kids.

“Juggling life is hard. You have to be very intentional with scheduling and making time for your family,” said Liz. “My husband owns a barber shop, so his working hours are similar to mine. We schedule time to be there for our kids and go on date nights and invest in our marriage.”

And just as the saying goes, it takes a village for Liz and her husband to be successful.

“My mom and mother-in-law are absolute saving graces,” said Liz. “They watch the kids whenever we are tied up with work.”

As for the future, Liz wants to continue growing her business and find a studio space. To book with Liz, visit her social media, @beautybymissliz_.

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Leaders in

Faith Sheri Dusse

By Cheryl Johnston

sweets for our Christmastime dessert parties. My spontaneity tends to stress my list-making, homebody husband, but we’ve had some wonderful family adventures that way.

When was your faith in Jesus established?

Having attended church all my life, I confessed my faith at age 10 in Miami.

During high school, I attended Bible studies and traveled with our youth’s summer singing group to Southeastern states. As my faith strengthened, I realized its importance. Through Bible study groups, I continue experiencing the joy of learning and deepening faith with others. Since God instructs us to think of those more highly than ourselves, I share Him through volunteer service and invites. I’ve learned many are also suffering, too, and as I reach out, I pray they’ll see Christ in me.

Describe a favorite Scripture passage.

Philippians 4:6-7 tells us: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with Thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Life’s demands on our time, talent, and finances can be overwhelming, so I rest in God’s presence and remember that nothing happens without His knowledge. Lately, I’ve seen God working in our difficult situations. And although I may cry and wonder why, I’m at peace when I pray, give

“

Our neighbors, church families and the Strawberry Festival have always been a special part of our lives

Him thanks for the beauty through trials, and refuse to worry. As my children have witnessed me live this verse, I hope it helps them during their own.

M

iami-native Sheri Dusse attended USF in Tampa, where she and her husband Rob met 39 years ago. Born on December 7th, she has been to every state except Hawaii and hopes to visit there on Pearl Harbor Day eventually.

Within their first week, Rob expressed his love and plans for marriage. Once married, they moved to Plant City, between his Publix job in Lakeland and hers at a Tampa bank. For eight years beginning In 1992, Sheri worked in the Publix CEO’s office, assisting with newly installed ATMs, before transitioning to homeschool teacher mom and sports coordinator for Nick, Hannah, and Sarah, now in their 20s. Charleigh, their first granddaughter, brings the family great joy!

In addition to bookkeeping for the family-owned Griffin Utilities company, Sheri serves as Finance Director at GracePoint Plant City church. She loves “connecting to and praying for our congregation and helping church elders be fiscally responsible with GracePoint’s resources. As a church,” she added, “we want to have a Christ-like impact in our community and abroad.”

Tell us about your family life.

We love to be outdoors and/or playing games in friendly competitions like beach volleyball or UNO. I also enjoy traveling, reading, crafting and baking.

I’ve made/decorated two of my kids’ wedding cakes and love baking dozens of

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What do you enjoy most about Plant City?

Our small-town atmosphere and the connecting/serving opportunities in this strong community are wonderful. Our neighbors, church families and the Strawberry Festival have always been a special part of our lives, too. As young marrieds in 1991, we could only afford to attend, split one shortcake and sit in the free bleacher seats with a blanket, listening to Kenny Rogers. I was hooked and since then have volunteered in many areas, including as a Neighborhood Village Board member. Recently, I joined the Fashion Show decorating committee.

Share about GracePoint.

We attended First Presbyterian Church after moving here and then went with others to the Armory before building Evangelical Presbyterian, which is now GracePoint. While raising our children to know and love God alongside some wonderful families, these have been our support, accountability, fellow homeschoolers, and vacation partners. This warm and relatable “Framily” remains a big blessing from God. Others pray for me, and my Bible study group often texts encouraging verses.

Having served in most aspects, including nursery, kitchen, and teaching Sunday School, I’ve watched many become missionaries and church leaders.

My husband’s and mom’s health issues have made for a difficult two years.

The Elders and church family have surrounded us with major support, helping to ready our home for sale, moving prized possessions, checking in during storms, and delivering meals. We’ve also trained a service dog. Even though it appears folks have it all together, you never know what they’re going through. I want to share the kindness shown to me.

GracePoint Plant City welcomes all to its weekly services at 1107 Charlie Griffin Road on Sundays at 9:30 and 11AM and Wednesdays at 6:30PM. Visit online as well at gracepointpc.org.

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SPONSORED BY

Candy’s Corner

By Candy Owens

I

was scrolling through Facebook the other day, when a funny little ditty popped up. It invited: TAKE THE “OLDER THAN DIRT” QUIZ! Do you remember these?

1. BlackJack Chewing Gum 2. Wax Coke-shaped bottles with colored sugar water 3. Butch Wax 4. Candy Cigarettes 5. Wax Lips 6. Soda machines with glass bottles 7. Party line telephones 8. 45-RPM records 9. PF Flyers 10. Carrying a metal lunch box to school 11. Roller skate keys 12. The Andy Griffith Show 13. S & H Green Stamps 14. Blue flashbulbs 15. Drive-In movie gheaters If you remember: 0-5: You are a “Whipper Snapper” 6-10: You are “Getting There” 10 or more: “YOU ARE OLDER THAN DIRT!”

Well, I guess at the ripe old age of 61, I am now: “OLDER THAN DIRT.” Ha Ha Ha! That little quiz made me stop and think back about everything listed. Each and every item was pretty much a part of everyday modern day life when I was a kid.

As I continued scrolling down, up came a photo of three kids standing on the street corner wearing horn-rimmed glasses, penny loafers, and Bermuda shorts. Stacked around their feet were cartons of empty Coke and Pepsi bottles. The caption read: “HAVE YOU EVER RETURNED BOTTLES FOR CASH?” Well, the happy memories of those days just flooded into my mind.

I had forgotten about turning empty soda bottles in for money $$$. How much fun was that? I remember asking Mother to take my sister Karen and I down to the SPEEDEE Shop on Park Street for some candy or a treat. If I had not been especially good or if I had not done well on my last report card, Mother would say: “As long as you have some allowance money left.” Well, chances were usually that I had NO money left. I would have already run through my $2.00 allowance and would be pretty much in the state of begging for more or offering to do more chores or asking Mother to “Just write a check,” to which she would reply: “Go to the garage and check for empty bottles.” That’s all it took for Karen and I to make a mad dash out to the PAGE

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WELLS MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME 813-752-1111

garage and collect all the empties we could find -even the ones covered in spider webs.

It wouldn’t take more than five minutes to put our shoes on and load the back seat of Mother’s 1968 Pontiac Catalina floorboard with our “lucky find” and off we went. My sister and I would exit the car with our armloads of empty glass bottles and straight to the counter we went. We would hold up our bottles and the female cashier would ring up our find and then direct us to the empty grocery buggy beside the store’s front door. There we would carefully unload our bottles and race back to the counter, holding our hands out for our shiny new coins. I remember we would get 3-cents for a small bottle, 5-cents for a bigger one, and 3 cents if you had the paper carton that originally held the bottles.

We would usually end up with about 50 cents between us and we felt like we had hit the Jackpot!

We probably spent 15 minutes in the store trying to choose what to buy. Well, let’s see, for a dime you could get a Coca-Cola or a 7-UP, an RC Cola, Wink, or Jamaica Cola, or an Orange or Grape Soda. So many choices!

You could venture over to the Comic Book stand and choose from: The Archies, Sebrina the Teenage Witch, Richie Rich, Little Lotta, Batman, Superman, Hulk, Spiderman, Thor, Captain Marvel, The Giant Manthing, Captain America, Creatures on the Loose, Howard the Duck, The Haunt of Horror, Dark Shadows, and on and on, that is if you wanted to spend a whole 15 cents.

Now if we went straight for the candy, which was known as “Penny Candy,” we would go to the cashier for a little brown paper bag. We would go up and down the candy aisle and back and forth, trying to figure out what we wanted. Back then you could pretty much fill that little brown bag with a quarter’s worth of candy. I remember there would be Bazooka and Double Bubble Bubble Gum, Zots, Atomic FireBalls, Lemon Heads, Boston Baked Beans, Charms Lollipops, Jaw Busters, Jujubes, Necco Wafers, Jolly Ranchers, Now & Laters, Pixy Stix, Red Hots, SweeTarts, Sugar Daddys, Teaberry gum, Wax Lips, Bottle Caps, Brach’s Royals, Life Savers, Whistle Pops, Tootsie Rolls and Pop Drops, Jaw Breakers, Milk Duds, Pom Poms, Junior Mints, Goobers, Raisinets, Kits, Candy Cigarettes, Sixlets, Chico Sticks, Smarties, Turkish Taffy, Chicklets, Mallo Cups, Bit-O-Honey, MaryJanes, Peppermint Patties, candy cigars, candy necklaces and rings and on and on. My favorites were the rolls of Smarties that would have a fake plastic finger or toy ring on the end and the orange Wow Wee Whistles that were wax wrapped in plastic with images of black witches flying on broomsticks. We would play

them like a Harmonica for a few minutes then we could not resist taking a big bite of that juicy orange wax. Oh! that was so sweet and yummy! Karen and I would chew that orange wax until our jaws could not take it anymore! HaHa! What a wonderful memory that was! To be a kid turned loose in the Speedee Shop with what seemed like a pocket full of money. I thought it would be fun to post the picture of those kids in the horn-rimmed glasses with the empty soda bottles on my Facebook page just to see what kids from my day would have to say. Here’s what I got: Mike Witchoskey: I remember the Speedee Shop.

Terri Turner Griffin: I still call convenience stores the Speedee Shop.

Christine Haney: Yes, I turned in my bottles at the Apex Store.

Randy Jones: The Shop and Go at Hwy 60 & Turkey Creek Road. The Good old days!

Neil Roberts: I turned in my bottles at the old Dover Bi-Lo for another soda and candy.

Beverly McGriff Jordan: We use to ride our bikes down to the store and buy candy or an Icee with the money.

Nicole Norris: I got gas money for my bottles.

Debbie Johnson Torres: Those empty bottles paid for lots of candy from the Lil’ General Store.

Marci Rogers Drawdy: Growing up we lived next to the Dover Bi-Lo. I have pushed many a buggy full of bottles. Cash for Candy!

Jeff Capron: I rode my Schwinn Scrambler thru Walden Lake when it was first being built. I put a 5-gallon bucket on each handle bar and scored riches around the new homes being built.

Mountain Dew and Mellow Yellow bottles were left everywhere by the construction workers.

Tracey Harkala Adams: Me and Teri McElveen rode our bikes to the store and got penny candy.

Sharon Everidge: Yes, I rode my yellow Schwinn 10-speed with my bottles.

Carolyn Everidge: Yes! Reading everyone’s responses made me laugh and realize how simple were our childhoods. We were all pretty much on the same page. Back in those days, our bicycles and a little brown paper sack filled with “penny candy” from the convenience store made us pretty darn happy.

In fact-we thought that we had it all! On second thought, we really did!

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Plant City

Happenings Apr 26

Earth Day at McIntosh Preserve 10:00AM Celebrate Earth Day with the Plant City Parks & Recreation with a free, family-friendly day with animal encounters, ranger-guided hikes, craft stations and more.

McIntosh Preserve @ 775 E Knights Griffin Rd Cost: Free Info:recinfo@plantcitygov.com

April 18

April 19

Egg Hunt & Photos with the Easter Bunny

Plant City Easter Egg Hunt

10:00AM Enjoy an egg hunt, crafting and photos with the Easter Bunny at Grace Manor. Additional parking at Brewer Park.

Grace Manor @ 765 West Grant Street Cost: Free Info: (813) 743-3701

10:00AM Enjoy hunting for more than 15,000 Easter eggs and take photos with the Easter Bunny at the City’s annual Easter Egg Hunt!

Randy Larson Softball Complex @ 1500 S Park Rd Cost: Free Egg Hunt; $5 Easter Bunny Photos Info: recinfo@plantcitygov.com

April 20

May 10

May 03

Little Miss Plant City 6:00PM This 50+ year tradition allows local girls to shine on stage and represent their city. This smalltown tradition invites you to support the Junior Woman’s Club and this year’s contestants.

PCHS @ 1 Raider Place Cost: $17; Cash or PayPal accepted.

Info: plantcitylmpc@gmail.com

Mother’s Day Bouquet Workshop 11:00AM Make a beautiful floral bouquet with mom for Mother’s Day under the direction of The Roaming Petal.

Keel Farms @ 5202 Thonotosassa Road Cost: $45 Info: theroamingpetal@gmail.com

Plant City Entertainment, Inc. In conjunction with Dramatists Play Service Inc.

Presents

Apr 25

Last Friday in Downtown: Sci-Fi 5:00PM From light saber-wielding Jedi to Vulcans and Klingons, all are welcome to this sci-fi-themed food truck rally in Downtown Plant City! Enjoy artisan goods and foods while you take in the sights and sounds of a science fiction night in McCall Park.

McCall Park @ 100 N Collins Street Cost: Free Info: www.plantcitymainstreet.org

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Directed by Kelley Powell

APRIL 25, 26 & MAY 2, 3 AT 8PM • APRIL 27 & MAY 4 AT 2PM For more information visit our website

WWW.PLANTCITYENTERTAINMENT.COM Plant City Entertainment is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization

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2025 WINNER

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Whoever said Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend

Never Had a Dog!

Plant City’s Only Boutique Pet Store Grooming starting at $47 Highest Quality Dog & Cat Food & Treats Pet Clothes, Collars, Leashes & More!

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3012 James L Redman Pkwy, Plant City, FL 33566 (813) 588-3540

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