FOCUS Plant City 09-10

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october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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table of contents

october 2010 volume 9 issue 10

Publisher Mike Floyd Office Manager Dede Floyd Copy Editor Lynne Warren advertising director Brent Simmons

Family of Community Magazines

Sales Sophia Hyde Sheryl Vitelli Holly Far mer Production Anthony Sassano Tony Cartagena Joel Cook FOCUSTV Brandon Hyde Kelleigh Klein Distribution Byron Spradlin Belva DeVane Photographers Suzanne Gallagher Billy Friend Lori Blaser Stephanie Humphrey

ontheCOVER helen parke

photo by stephanie humphrey photography

14 FOCUS Plant City Lakeland Brandon Winter Haven Lake County South Tampa

FOCUSTV

MYFOCUSTV.COM Local Community Stories New Episode Every Wednesday

Own Your Own FOcus Magazine

Licensed territories are available.

If you are interested in owning your own Focus Magazine call Mike Floyd at 813-707-8783 ext. 26

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LOCAL

Enjoy the reports of a busy month in Plant City where beauty reigns in gardens and calendar girls and charity fun abounds in events like Diamonds & Denim, Rockin’ Roses, and Curves- Not for Sissies. Read about Tomlin Middle School’s response to Rachel’s Challenge and the Last Supper Collection exhibit displayed at Truth.

feature

Staff Writers Cheryl Johnston Brian West Joe Bowles Derek Maul Kelleigh Klein Heather Davis Laura Estes Dan Conrod Kristi Linbaugh Heather Davis Ken Lawrence Megan Braglin Brittany Cer ny contributors Al Ruechel Bruce Rodwell Gil Gott Jo-An Lusk Nate Davis Editorial Interns Raven Leverett

Meet the talented locals who will compete in the Rotary Club’s 2010 event “Dancing with the locals,” and learn the process involved to win the annual title.

SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW

Since the death of her beloved husband, Roy Parke, the family matriarch, Helen, has been the tie that binds the hardworking, close-knit group together. From humble beginnings, the Parkes have had a tremendous impact on the recognition of agriculture and marketing. That legacy of excellence is still growing strong.

business profile

Anytime Fitness members are experiencing wonderful results at the beautiful new facility with secure 24/7 access. Time is no longer an excuse. Meet owners Richard and Se’a Ryan and four individuals who highly recommend the club because they’ve accomplished their fitness goals and more.

standards of accuracy The goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-war ming stories that are accurate from the start. Being human, however, we sometimes make mistakes. Please forgive us.

So if you notice anything that is incorrect, then please do not hesitate to contact the editorial department and infor m it about the fact error. To do so, call (813) 707-8783 or e-mail editorial@floydpublications. com. The staff will fix the error in a timely manner.

Readers who wish to respond to an article – not correct facts – can do so by writing a letter to the editor. If you need any other type of assistance, then please view the directory for the appropriate department.

The staff at FOCUS Magazine is committed to serving their consumers and customers to the fullest of abilities. You’re paying attention to our words. Let us pay attention to yours.

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

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

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dining profile

Prepare to crave Italian food after you discover the menu selections from Esposito’s Pizza. The family has been crafting specialties such as strombolis, calzones, subs, salads, pasta, garlic knots, and meatballs since they moved to America from Naples, Italy 40 years ago. The finishing touch is homemade Tiramisu.

12 - Talk of the Town 34 - Did You Know?

36 - Plant City Chamber of Commerce

67 - Home Guide 80 - Athlete Of The Month 88 - Al Reuchel 91 - Derek Maul

96 - Auto Review 99 - Dining Guide 106 - Event Calendar 108 - Just For Fun

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

published by:

floyd publications, Inc.

101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd.

Plant City, FL 33563 Phone 813.707.8783 • Fax 813.764.0990

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at Alexander Crossings Plaza We are located in the Lake Brandon Professional Park at 1165 Nikki View Drive. The professional park is near the intersection of South Causeway Blvd. and South Gornto Lake Rd. (next to Kohl's Department Store).

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From Cross-Town Expressway: Enter Brandon (East) exit to Falkenburg Road exit. Exit Falkenburg Road and turn right onto Falkenburg Rd. Left turn onto Causeway Blvd. Right turn onto S. Gornto Lake Rd. Right turn into Lake Brandon Professional Park. Immediate left turn onto Professional Park Drive. Right turn onto Nikki View Drive. Our office building will be on your left.

U.S. HWY. 301

From Tampa (north): Take 1-75 (South) to Riverview/301 N. Exit (#254). North on US Hwy 301 to Causeway Blvd. Right turn (East) onto Causeway Blvd. Right turn onto S. Gornto Lake Rd. Right N turn into Lake Brandon Professional Park. Immediate left turn BRANDON BLVD. (HWY. 60) onto Professional Park Drive. Right turn onto Nikki View Drive.

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Brandon Location: From Hwy 60: Head west on Hwy 60 towards Clarence Gordon 1165 Jr.Nikki View Drive Road, turn right at Hwy 39/James L. Redman Parkway, turn right at East Alexander Our office will be on the right.

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toward Connell Rd, take the 1st right onto Holloway Rd, turn left at Hwy 39 N/James L. Redman Pkwy, turn right at E. Alexander Street. Our office will be on the right.

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TWO LOCATIONS TO BETTER SERVE YOU

From Turkey Creek road: Head north on Turkey Creek Rd www.davidsonsurgery.com

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From East Brandon (Hwy 60): Head west on Brandon BLOOMINDALE AVE. Blvd/Hwy 60 towards Tampa. Left turn on Kings Ave. Take Kings Ave. south to Lumsden Rd. Right turn (West) on Lumsden S Rd. Left turn (South) on Gornto Lake Rd. Right turn into Lake Brandon Professional Park. Immediate Left turn onto Professional Park Drive. Right turn onto Nikki View Drive. Our office building will be on your left.

From West Baker Street: Head southeast on W. Baker St 623 East Alexander St., Plant City, FL toward N. Mobley St., continue to follow N. Alexander Street. Our office will be on right. (just north ofthe Wal-Mart) From East Baker Street: Head west on E. Baker Street/Hwy Phone 60/US #: (813) 92W towards N.571-1516 Wilder Rd, take the 1st left onto Park Rd, continue Jim Johnson Rd. Our office will be on the right.

Specialty: Oral &ontoMaxillofacial Surgery

Wisdom teeth / Other extractions

From County Line road: Head south on County Line Rd towards Medulla Rd, take the 1st right onto Medulla Rd, turn right at Co Rd 574/Coronet Rd, turn left at Roberts Ranch Rd., turn left at Jim Johnson Rd, take the 1st right onto E. Alexander St, make U-turn. Our office will be on the right.

Board Certified in Dental Anesthesiology foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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letter from the publisher

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No Order Too Big Or Too Small Largest Spice Selection In Town One Stop Shopping for all your large parties, family reunions and church events

SPECIAL SERVICES AVAILABLE INCLUDE: Western Union, Money Orders and Wiring Sevices Plantains, Green Bananas (by the box or lb.)

Fresh Local Produce Daily Fresh Greens Available Daily

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WIDE SELECTION OF: #10 Can And Gallon Size Items Martin’s Potato Bread Entenmann’s Bakery products Goya • Lisy • La Costena • San Marco’s and La Dona Tortillas

F

all is in the air and we are only weeks away from November 12 and I’m still trying to figure out exactly how I got myself into this. If you haven’t heard, Plant City’s Noon Rotary Club is holding one of their biggest fundraisers of the year, Dancing with the Locals. This year, my wife and I are contestants. I have never been a dancer, so this entire process has been quite a challenge for me.

If you flip towards the middle of the book, you’ll find the feature story by Brian West, who is also a fellow competitor this year. He writes in one part of the article, “There seems to be one common theme that each of the competitors will share when asked about their experience. Everyone agrees that this brought them closer together as a couple.” He also describes other emotions you feel going through this experience, and I feel he really hit the nail on the head.

Through the challenging parts, and the fun parts of this competition, I feel it is a positive experience for the couples involved. You’re putting yourself out on the line in front of hundreds of people. Even though an instructor walked you through the steps many times for months leading up to the competition, it’s you two on that floor by yourselves that have to make it happen. Together, you both walk into this blindly and figure it out as a team. This year, more than any of the past years, there are difficult, and slightly dangerous, moves that many of us are taking on. It should be quite a show!

Reading that quote from Brian also reminded me of another familiar story in this issue.

Our spotlight this month is on Helen Parke of Parkesdale Farms. She shares the story of the love she and the late Roy Parke shared in their 66 years of marriage. I would have to imagine that over six decades, much more than a handful of dance lessons brought them closer together. They built a strong foundation as a team, not only in the strawberry industry, but also in their family.

We wanted to recognize the Parke family this month because the Food Network declared Parkesdale Farm Market as having the Best Drinkable Dessert in the country!

I’ve told people before that you’re missing out if you’ve never had a strawberry milkshake from Parkesdale, but now I have some clout behind my claim!

This October issue is packed with great stories of what’s going on in our community, so make sure you read through it all. I hope to see you November 12!

Walker Plaza, 617 N Maryland Ave. Plant City, FL 33563 ATM Available at Customer Service TECO Payments Accepted

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october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Mike Floyd Publisher

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Give us a call and let us show how we can ease your concerns about your electrical system.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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Local » talk of the town

plant city’s

talk town of the

Submit your TALK OF THE TOWN TO: editorial@floydpublications.com

The Public is Cordially Invited The Plant City Veterans’ Memorial Monument Committee Will Host a Guided Walking Tour of The Plant City Veterans’ Memorial Monument Park At Courier Field Sunday, October 24, 2010, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sponsored By: The Plant City Armed Forces Memorial Foundation, Inc. In Partnership with The City of Plant City, Florida.

The Tour will begin in the Engraved Brick Gathering Area in The Park at Courier Field, North Wheeler Street

2010 General Election Candidate Forum

The 2010 General Election Candidate Forum will be held on Saturday October 16th from 5:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. This is a free event designed to educate voters of Eastern Hillsborough County as well as introduce the Plant City faith community to the candidates running for Federal, State, and County races in the November 2nd election.

All candidates, regardless of their party affiliation or political views, running for any public office on the national, state or local level in Eastern Hillsborough County have been invited to come and meet with the citizens that they wish to represent.

Watson Clinic Plant City Welcomes Internal Medicine/Pediatrics Specialist Watson Clinic is proud to announce the addition of Leslie A. Coello, MD, to our team of expert specialists. Dr. Coello will offer both internal medicine and pediatric care from our Plant City location at 615 E. Alexander Street. Dr. Coello received her medical degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee, WI. She performed her internship and residency in internal medicine/pediatrics at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, FL. Dr. Coello is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Physicians, Florida Medical Association, Hillsborough County Medical Association, and has Alumni status in the National Med-Peds Residents’ Association. Please call 863-680-7190 to schedule an appointment, or visit us online at www.WatsonClinic.com for more information.

Valrico State Bank Celebrates 15 On September 15 2010, Valrico state bank in Plant City celebrated their 15 year anniversary.

Jerry L. Ball, Chief Executive Officer, President, Feels fortunate to be part of the community, and is greatfull in making this traditional style bank into a succesful venture.

County Commissioner Mark Sharpe was in Plant City recently for a meet and greet event in his honor at Grandpa Johnson’s Restaurant. The meet and greet was hosted by local leaders as an opportunity for Commissioner Sharpe to thank supporters in Plant City for their continued support and friendship.

Attendees and friends packed the restaurant to enjoy a wonderful breakfast and the opportunity to shake hands and visit with Commissioner Sharpe. In addition, City Commissioner Rick Lott introduced Commissioner Sharpe to the group to say a few words. He thanked friends and even bantered some with Plant City Planning Board Chairman, Billy Keel about the Seminoles vs. the Gators (Commissioner Sharpe is a Seminole fan/Billy Keel is a Gator fan).

Commissioner Sharpe told the group he supports a small, mean, lean form of government. He said, “Government should be accountable and have a purpose and role to meet the needs of the overall population (i.e. clean water, trash pick-up, issue permits . . .). However, local government should also be customer service focused. “ He continued, “When an individual has an issue, they should be able to have answers and solutions through the front line person versus having to be connected to several different departments in order to problem solve.” He also feels that government should be spending less just like individuals and families need to do in these tough economic times.

marke sharp meet and greet 12

october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Commissioner Sharpe was elected to office in 2004 and is currently running for re-election. To learn more about Commissioner Sharpe visit www.marksharpefl.com. He can also be found on Facebook at marksharpefl and Twitter at Mark Sharpe FL.

Local » talk of the town

Do You Appreciate Your Pastor?

October is Pastor Appreciation Month, also called Clergy Appreciation Month. During Pastor Appreciation Month, congregations host special activities and events to show thanks, affirmation and gratitude to their pastors.

At Red Rose Inn and Suites we want to share with you some ideas of how you can pay special tribute to your pastor.

Write your pastor a personal note. A thoughtful card with a personal note can help to encourage your pastor and to show your appreciation to your pastor for faithful service.

Give a personal gift. A gift certificate to a restaurant or to a local store can be nice thank you gift. Pastors usually spend so much time giving to other people, receiving a gift certificate to do or buy something for themselves will be a much appreciated gift.

Organize a special collection. Talk to the board or elders of your church and see about taking a special offering for your pastor. This is a wonderful way to collect funds for a big group gift, like a trip or to give a nice sum of money as a token of the church member’s appreciation.

AND NOW

A MESSAGE FROM OUR

ART

DEPARTMENT

Host a luncheon. Get people together who have the gift of hospitality and have a luncheon following a Sunday service. Have signup sheets and ask people to bring everything from paper products to plates. Provide an “open mic” opportunity for people to say thank you to the pastor.

Draft a prayer calendar. Ask members of the congregation to commit to pray for the pastor by signing up for a day to pray. Prayer can be the best gift to give a pastor and knowing that a congregation is praying can give the pastor strength, encouragement and affirmation.

READ THIS ISSUE OR VIEW PAST ISSUES OF FOCUS MAGAZINE ONLINE

Plant City Boys & Girls Club The Plant City Boys & Girls Club will be having their 4th Annual BBQ Fundraiser Friday, November 5th. Join them for a tasty BBQ dinner prepared by Grandpa Johnsons!

The proceeds directly fund the Plant City Boys and Girls Club. Meals will be available from 4:00pm to 6:30pm at the Train Depot located in the heart of Plant City.

Pictured above; Sabrina Hart, Capree Smith, Ernest Anderson, Brittaney Anderson, Tia Holmes, Jalen Reaves, Devin Hamilton. Board Members: Art Wood, Rev Maxie Miller, Jimmy Carapezza, Joe Sedita, Jodi Smith

MYFOCUSTV.COM

Scholarship fundraising bbq The woman’s club of Plant City will host their annual scholarship fundraising BBQ on October 28th at the downtown historic train depot. Meals are $10 and provided by Johnson BBQ. Dinners are available for pickup between 4-7 p.m. For advance ticket purchases please call 813982-0199 or you may purchase them at the depot that day. foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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Treat

yourself to a new you!

HAIR Lisa Bailey Laan Cruickshank Douglas Dickson Lisa Edwards Jana Evers Veronica Fernandez Krystal Gallagher

NAILS Linda Kickliter Christal Maxwell JoAnn Register LaVonne Sapp Carla Youmans

Jenna Gates Jachelle Henderson Stephanie Karr Millied Molina Cindy Parmenter Sarah Pentecost Megan Register

MASSAGE/ESTHETICIANS Leah Clark Tonya Groninger

Meagan Rickman Ashley Showalter Nicole Smith

RECEPTIONISTS Brooklynn Beauchamp Lindsey Edwards

MANAGER Mary Murray

OWNERS Ron & Jana Evers

1505 South Alexander Street • Suite 102 • Plant City, FL 33563 • 813.717.7700 14

october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Job Opportunities Available

Local » Focus

Charlie and Lynette Boone of The Garden (tropical plants) and Boone’s Wholesale Nursery (currently open to the public). Photo by Megan Braglin

2nd Annual “IPlant City Garden Club love plants and I love Plant City!”

GardenFest C Written By: Megan Braglin

harlie and Lynette Boone of Boone’s Wholesale Nursery and The Garden were just one of many vendors of various tropical and native plants. The Boones feel events like this are important to Plant City horticulturalists to share their wares and to expose the community to the many various growers here in the area. Boone says that in this economy, the more exposure, the better. Even he has had to open his wholesale nursery (off of Sam Allen Road) up to the public, due to the weak economy.

From 9am to 3pm on September 25th, vendors providing beautiful yard art and even rustic furniture, set up at the Train Depot. Bob and Cheryl Bradley, of Classic Adirondack, were surrounded by all kinds of cypress wood outdoor furniture. They are not new to the outdoor event scene

and spend most of their Saturdays during the winter at the St. Pete Saturday Market.

Bradley says the Plant City event may be in its infancy, however in time it will grow and he’s seen it happen. “It’s got great potential; a lot of shows begin small.”

Mikie Snyder, President of the Plant City Garden Club, was very proud of her clubs efforts to put this event on. Along with Cassandra Banning, Immediate Past President, Snyder shared that even in this second year of the event; the club has outgrown its current space by expanding Glenn Cryer, of The Garden Wall, also from 12 vendors to 22 vendors. Banning travels the gardening vending circuit says the location (Train Depot) is one and was present with his display of more reason for people to visit Plant City handmade concrete mosaic waterfalls and experience our unique downtown and yard ornaments. Just behind Cryer’s corridor. The mission of the Plant City booth, some various hibiscus and bamboo, Garden Club is to educate not only its sunlight trickled threw the glass yard art of members about gardening responsibly, Tropical Glass Creations. In addition, the economically, and beautifully- but to also event was fed by the Daybreak Rotary club. educate the public in the same manner.

The Rotary offered grilled food, as well as an ice cold beverage to beat the Florida The Saturday event had two speakers on heat. The Rotary are known for providing hand to educate the attendees. Willow area schools with dictionaries and helping LaMonte from Willow Herbal Delight the food bank of Plant City.

Gardens spoke to the value and technique

of growing herbs organically. Next up, Lynn Barber of the Hillsborough County Extension Service, spoke to the importance and value of Florida Friendly Landscaping.

The entire event was filled with smiles as young and old enjoyed what Mother Nature has to offer in the form of horticulture. Who couldn’t feel at ease with the smell of jasmine and ginger wafting through the air? One’s eyes were treated to an intense array of colors from deep purple to vibrant greens.

Whether you are an experienced gardener or a novice, the 2nd Annual Gardenfest had something to accommodate your every whim. For more information about next years’ event or to join the Plant City Garden Club, visit www. plantcitygardenclub.org.

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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2011 Cover Girl Calli Jo Parker and Calendar Girls Isis Ash (January), Savannah Molinowlski (February), Amanda Rodenmeyer (March), Keyleene Connell (April), Haley Hayes (May), Amanda Henry (June), Brittany Butler (July), Regan Knotts (August), Amber Muehl (September), Jordan Tucker (October), Laura Sarria (November), Haley Ours (December).

Calendar Girls Selected O n September 25th, Plant City High School hosted the annual Calendar Girl Contest in which 50 beautiful contestants competed for 13 coveted spots on the school’s 2011 calendar. This year, proceeds from this longstanding beauty contest benefit the Plant City High School Athletic Booster Club. Proceeds for Calendar Girl come from community/ business sponsorships and ad sales for the program book. In addition, the contestants are encouraged to sell ads in order to increase the contests fundraising efforts. This year’s top producer was Miss Courtney Hunt who sold $1,675 in sponsor ads.

Co-chairs of this year’s Calendar Girl Contest were Donna Keel and Crystal Almon. Donna Keel has a strong history with the annual competition as she herself was the Cover Girl for the 1985 calendar.

According to Donna, the calendar has dramatically changed over the years. The year she was crowned as Cover Girl, her cover picture was the first color picture on the calendar. The January – December calendar member photos were still in traditional black and white. Twenty five years later, the entire calendar is color.

Local photographer Stephanie Humphrey produces beautiful calendar photos and a video reflection of the previous year’s cover and calendar girls.

The Calendar Girl 2011 program included a welcome from Mr. Jack Prestwood, President of the Plant City High School Athletic Booster Club. Jack indicated that the Calendar Girl competition is a significant source of revenue for the high school’s athletic programs. The contest was emceed by the Mistress of Ceremony Mrs. Elizabeth Pierce. Entertainment included Bryson Keel serenading the 2010

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october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Cover Girl, Miss Analise Coffee and the 2010 Calendar Girls with the hit song, “Calendar Girl.”

The Calendar Girl contest is divided into two competitions: Preliminary Competition and Top 25 Final Competition. In the Preliminary Competition contestants are judged on overall beauty, pose, and self-confidence.

Bios were read on each girl as she was introduced to the audience. To be considered for participate in the annual Calendar Girl competition, contestants must pre-qualify with a specific grade point average.

for PCHS 2011 Calendar

Written By: Kelleigh Klein | photos By: Jeff Mason Photography

(February), Amanda Rodenmeyer (March), Amber Muehl (September), Jordan Tucker Kayleene Connell (April), Haley Hayes (October), Laura Sarria (November) and (May), Amanda Henry ( June), Brittany Haley Ours (December).

Butler ( July), Regan Knotts (August),

2011 Cover Girl

In the Top 25 Final Competition, contestants are judged on natural beauty, pose, overall appearance and their response to an overall contestant question. Judges are asked to consider a strict dress code and to remember that winners are teenagers representing their high school.

According to Donna, “It is very important that the contestants have an appearance that looks like a high school student. The cover and calendar girls are representing Plant City High School.”

The 2011 Cover Girl winner is Miss Calli Jo Parker. Calli Jo is a senior and member of FFA, Civinettes, Life Is Good, and National Honor Society. In addition, she is an active member at Welcome Baptist Church. Calli Jo is the daughter of Kenneth and Dee Parker. Her grandparents are Joe and Velma Newsome and Carol and Judy Bassett. Calli Jo plans to run for State FFA President and hopes to attend Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, Georgia.

The twelve calendar girls for 2011 include Isis Ash ( January), Savannah Molinowski

Calli Jo Parker

Miss January

Miss February

Miss March

Miss April

Isis Ash

Savannah Molinowski

Amanda Rodenmeyer

Kayleene Connell

Miss May

Miss June

Miss July

Miss August

Haley Hayes

Amanda Henry

Brittany Butler

Regan Knotts

Miss September

Miss October

Miss November

Miss December

Amber Muehl

Jordan Tucker

Laura Sarria

Haley Ours foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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Local » Focus

Dr. Brenda Dukes Chiropractic Physician

FLU SHOT? ALZHEIMER’S? NO THANKS!

Hugh Fudenburg, M.D. the world’s leading immunogeneticist and 13th most quoted biologist in the world today, states that if an individual has five consecutive flu shots his/her chances of getting Alzheimer’s disease are 10 times higher.

Apparently the aluminum and mercury in the flu shot have an affinity for brain tissue causing brain damage. So why is the flu shot recommended for pregnant women and infants?

The flu shot helps infants and children with asthma and congenital heart disease?

Not at all. In fact a study published in Archives of Diseases and Children showed the opposite. The vaccinated group had a significantly increased risk of asthma-related clinic and emergency room visits. (Christy C, Aligne CA, Auinger P et al. Effectiveness of influenza vaccine for the prevention of asthma exacerbations. Arch Dis Child.

2004;89(8):734-735.)

A recent report that appeared in the August 22/29 2005 issue of the AMA News stated that 98% of MDs surveyed plan to offer influenza vaccine to patients (Source: University of Colorado Health Sciences Center Survey, Funded by the CDC) And that is after studies show the flu vaccine doesn’t work in reducing flu deaths.

The bottom line…look to facts, statistics, and common sense when making decisions regarding your health – not hype and scare tactics generated by the people who have something to gain.

Blessings, Dr. Dukes and Staff Special Note: Remember October is Chiropractic Month! Find out how many health benefits there are in chiropractic care. Call to schedule a complimentary consultation today!

(813) 752-2524

Dr. Brenda Dukes • Chiropractic Physician 752-2524 • 2401 Walden Woods Dr. • Plant City, FL 33566

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

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october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Golfers complete putts on green Photo by Joe Bowles

Making a Difference Golf Tournament Helps Lions

Club Give Back to the Community Written By: Joe Bowles

W

hen the Lions Club is mentioned, the first thought most people have is “eyeglasses.” That’s because the Lion’s Club has been a friend of the visually impaired for decades. They collect eyeglasses that are no longer being used.

They clean, sort by size and prescription, and then make them available to charitable organizations and missions throughout the world. That may be the thing that the club

is known for, but that is far from all that this service club does.

In Plant City, the Lions Club is also known for the Strawberry Festival Queen Pageant that has been held in Plant City since 1930. The money raised through this pageant and the concession stand the club operates at the Festival, provides scholarships and prizes for the finalists, as

Local » Focus well as, fund other charitable activities.

The third fundraiser the Lions Club utilizes to support their activities is their annual golf tournament held every year on a Friday at the beginning of October. This year, 104 golfers met October 8 for the 11:00 AM tee time at the Walden Lake Golf and Country Club in Plant City.

Hole-sponsor signs lined every tee box as area individuals and merchants donated money prior to the tournament to lend their support to the sacrificial efforts of the Lions Club.

Door prizes, individual prizes, and awards to the tournament winners were meted out at the awards ceremony following the competition. The biggest winners, however, were those organizations in the community that will benefit from the funds that were raised.

The Lions Club provides academic scholarship to area high school students; provides assistance to the Steppin’ Stone Farm for Girls, a residential home and school for at-risk teenage girls; helps support and mentor the Leo Club, a high school service club that promotes community service; and helps the Southeastern Guide Dogs, an organization that assists those who are visually impaired with the use of professionally trained guide dogs.

The Lions also help well-known organizations such as Meals on Wheels, the Diabetes Foundation, Boy

Scouts, Little League and several other organizations that they freely contribute to each year.

For eighteen-year member (eight years in the 1970’s, and 2000- 2010) and local businessman, Tim Haught, the Lions Club is more than a weekly meeting, “First of all, for me, the Lions Club means camaraderie, Secondly, it means service. I’m proud to say, that we have made a difference in the lives of so many people, free of charge, who are visually impaired. Thirdly, we exist for the good of the whole community.”

There was plenty of camaraderie at the golf tournament as members, friends and community leaders gathered for a common cause.

Richard Dorsey, a volunteer at Walden Lake Golf Club related, “Everyone had a great time and seemed to be pleased with how everything turned out. The weather was awesome. The course conditions were great. Walden Lake was a wonderful host and the organizers did such a fantastic job. They’re the ones who made this thing run so smoothly. All I heard was positive comments.”

The organizers Dorsey was referring to was Steve Nierman (Administrator of the South Florida Baptist Hospital) and Kelleigh Klein (Director of the United Food Bank), who along with a host of others, helped put this tournament together so they could make a difference in our community by giving back once again.

First impressions count, especially when it comes to your work wardrobe. We’re a Sanitone® Certified Master Dry Cleaner, which means we have the high standards for detail and finish that will keep your clothes looking great day after day. Our exclusive cleaning process has been trusted by leading designers for over 75 years. Trust Myers Cleaners with your business clothes.

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Golfers at Walden Lake Pro Shop Photo by Joe Bowles

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

19

Local » Focus

Diamonds and Denim Presenting Sponsors Drs. Lockwood, Steely and Gill Photo by Kelleigh Klein

Diamonds and Denim S

lip on your Levis, cowboy boots or diamond studded strapless sandals, flannel button down or sequined tops, throw on your best western cowboy hat and you are ready to attend the South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundations annual fundraising event, Diamonds and Denim. On Thursday, September 23rd over 525 donors and guests gathered to attend this Plant City premiere event, which featured a casual evening of great food, music and fun. Diamonds and Denim is an event sponsored by the South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation and proceeds benefit the areas of greatest need for the hospital.

The South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation provides philanthropic support to South Florida Baptist Hospital year ‘round. The purpose of the Foundation is to ensure that the hospital can continue to meet the community’s need for top quality health care close to home. In addition to Diamonds and Denim, the Foundation

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offers giving opportunities that include Fall Fancy and Lights of Love and programs like Ladies Night Out, Keystone Circle and Doctor’s Day (www.sbjhealth. org).

South Florida Baptist Hospital Executive Director, Judy Martin, explained why the event is such a hit. “The success of Diamonds and Denim is the result of many key ingredients: great food, casual attire, a weeknight and a hard working committee! The auction, too, makes it popular.” Chairperson for this year’s event was Lisa Galloway and vice-chair was Kim McElveen. Additional committee members included Kathy Baskin, Hal Brewer, M.D., Lynn Brewer, Jean Ann Davenport, Dave Galloway, Sylvia Knox, Gail Lyons, Bettye Jean Manee, Brett Mueller, Marsha Passmore, Debi Peacock, Glenda Raulerson, Bruce Rodwell, Rhett Rollyson, Rebecca Trinkle Rothman, Marion Smith, Mikie Snyder, Phil Waldron and Faye Wetherington.

Generates Significant Hospital Profits Written By: Kelleigh Klein

Anesthesiologist group Lockwood, Steely & Gill, MDs, PA was the presenting sponsor of this year’s Diamonds and Denim. Additional sponsors for the western themed fundraiser included IKON Office Solutions, Evelyn and Batista Madonia, Sunshine State Federal Savings & Loan Association, Hopewell Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens, Plant City Cancer Treatment Center, Ed and Myrtle Lou Swindle, Larry and Debbie Swindle and many more.

In addition to sponsorships and ticket sales, the overall success of Diamonds and Denim is attributed to the bids and sales of silent auction items. This year’s silent auction boasted something for everyone with silent auction item opening bids ranging from $15 to $750. Items included fine jewelry donated by Brown’s Jewelers and J & G Jewelers, top shopping and service gift certificates, and Disney hopper passes. Vacations like a seven night stay in Cudjoe Key, FL, a week at Indian Rocks and a fun week in the Smokey

Mountains of North Carolina also lined the auction tables. Sports memorabilia and game tickets rounded out the auction offerings with items like Florida Gator and FSU football tickets, signed football photos, prints and jerseys rounded out the offerings.

According to Judy Martin, “This year’s Diamonds and Denim event is predicted to produce a final total in the neighborhood of $75,000 - $80,000.” The great continued fundraising success of Diamonds and Denim can be attributed to the overall generosity of thousands of individuals, families and businesses in the Greater Plant City area. To date, the Foundation has raised more than $6 million to benefit hospital patients and their families (www.sjbhealth.org).

The South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation is located at 301 North Alexander Street, Plant City, FL 33563.

The Foundation can be reached at (813)757-1200.

HealtH & Beauty SpotligHt 14 Day Shellac Manicure By Victoria Vo

D

o you have problems with growing your nails? Are you a nail biter? Naturally have thin nails? Can never hold nail polish or the French manicure on your nails? Most importantly if you do not want any lifting from acrylics or fungus to grow from the lifting, it is healthier, safer, long lasting for anyone who can start using the Gel Polish. Celebrities rave and show off the Shellac Gel Polish everywhere. It is in such high demand that the polish is always on back order.

Shellac Gel Polish is the latest, newest, trend that has impacted the beauty industry. Anyone who has been having problems with acrylic nails – lifting, thinning out your natural nail bed because of the drilling, and at times water gets under your nail and causes a fungus, with Shellac Gel Polish Manicures, you can wear your polish or French for two weeks.

Without any chipping or lifting the gel polish will grow out with your nails and you can see how much they have grown over the two weeks. Your nails will be at the healthiest stage they have ever been with Shellac. Shellac protects your nail bed and makes them stronger. Your gel polish stays on until you come back in to soak them off, without any drilling to damage your nail bed. If your nails are short, start early to reach the length you like for a wedding, prom, or any special occasions. Who says you have to get acrylics for your special day to hold the polish or French anymore? When you can have perfect looking nails every two weeks. Even nurses or anyone in the medical field can use this product because it is goes on like polish but it has the strength of gel. Shellac gel polish is in no way or form can be compared to acrylics. Best of all the Gel Polish is 3-free formula (no formaldehyde, no toluene, no DBP). “Beauty does not have to hurt, yet can be very safe and healthy,” said Victoria Vo, owner of Ku’tur Medi-Spa. In my opinion, the only problem you’ll have is learning how to just walk out and stick your hands in your purse when you are done! Yes, you are out the door with no drying time.

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

21

Local » Focus For example, 200 students now attend weekly Wednesday morning club meetings. Patti Hanks, a Tomlin staff member serving as adult club leader, said, “The excited students create character messages, perform acts of kindness, and write appreciative notes to teachers and custodians.

Sullivan mentioned that Tomlin’s head custodian brought a note into the principal’s office with tears in her in eyes, saying she “had never received anything like that before.”

Students also introduce themselves to new students, show newcomers around campus, and sit with them at lunch. Conscientious students refuse to allow anyone to make fun of others.

Larry Scott encouraged the 1,460 tomlin middle school students to embrace the five principles of rachel’s challenge. Photo by Cheryl Johnston

Tomlin Middle School Students, Staff, and Parents Accept Rachel’s Challenge Written By: cheryl johnston

“Y

ou could have heard a pin drop.”

This comment heard over and over describes Tomlin Middle School students’ rapt attention during Larry Scott’s presentations September 21 for Rachel’s Challenge and the Chain Links Club.

Larry Scott’s two children escaped injury during the Columbine High School shootings in Denver in 1999, but his brother’s daughter, Rachel Joy Scott (1981-1999), was the first murdered in a random rampage. Her brother Craig was traumatized when two troubled seniors entered the library where his class was sheltered and shot to death two close friends huddled next to him.

The disturbed teens, Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold, killed 12 students and one

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teacher. They also injured 24 others before committing suicide in this fourth deadliest school massacre in U.S. history.

What arose from Columbine’s ashes was the strong, faith-filled Scott family and their supporters who determined those deaths would not be in vain. The Rachel’s Challenge organization exists now to ensure history is not repeated.

The Tomlin PTSA decided students could become community difference-makers by learning how one student made a difference in hers.

After Larry Scott spoke from his heart, eager students signed the “I Accept Rachel’s Challenge” banner signifying their commitment to Rachel’s life principles.

These are:

Eliminate Prejudice Dare to Dream, Never Give Up, and Keep a Journal Choose Positive Influences Speak and Act with Kindness Start a Chain Reaction These chain reactions have evolved into Chain Links clubs across America.

Members practice kindness and learn to offer help. Principal Susan Sullivan was encouraged when 1,460 Tomlin Tigers responded to the three Rachel’s Challenge presentations, and even more so to see positive changes in their lives.

Sullivan has high praise for Tomlin’s PTSA, which organized the assemblies, follow-up and ongoing encouragement.

She described the “overwhelming turnout of parents for the evening program” and said, “We certainly appreciate the community’s support.”

Using video clips, Larry Scott allowed audience members a glimpse of Columbine’s tragedy and subsequent reactions. He shared Rachel’s life, the story of an incredibly compassionate young leader whose faith taught her the virtues of kindness and humility.

Prophetically, Rachel sensed she would die young. But certainly she could not have imagined the impact her death and her journal entries made public would have on so many. This she did know: Words have life. Therefore, speak carefully.

Sixth grader teacher, Lauren Hall Smith, said her “students and fellow faculty were deeply moved by Rachel’s story.” She describes Rachel’s Challenge as “one of the most powerful programs I have seen as an educator,” and she has witnessed “a true desire in students to not only live the five challenges, but to also spread the message.”

She adds, “Each day we do our best to engage their minds. Rachel’s Challenge engages their hearts and fills them with kindness, love, and acceptance. What a blessing for our community to have this program at Tomlin Middle School!”

To learn more or schedule a speaker, please visit www.rachelschallenge.org.

Just what the doctor ordered.

A new, dedicated orthopedic wing.

We take the stress out of orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation.

Thanks to our exciting, new renovations, patients can now recover faster and more comfortably in their own specialized, private room. Our 10 luxury rooms are designed large enough to accommodate physical therapy equipment, so therapists can come to the patients. Rooms include flat screen TVs and access to an internet and media café – with computers and ortho-ergonomic furniture. Even fold-out sleeper sofas allow family members to stay over night. It’s the perfect healing environment in every way.

New Orthopedic Wing 301 N. Alexander St. Plant City, FL 33563 southfloridabaptist.com For a referral to one of our orthopedic surgeons, call 813-443-2018 foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

23

If You’re Not At Your LAst Job, shouLd Your 401(k) be?

Leaving a 401(k) with a previous employer could mean leaving it alone with no one to watch over it.

At Edward Jones, we can explain options for your 401(k) and help you select the one that’s best for you. If you’d like to roll it over to an Edward Jones Individual Retirement Account (IRA), we can help you do it without paying taxes or penalties. And you can feel confident that someone is looking out for you and your 401(k).

To find out why it makes sense to talk with Edward Jones about your 401(k) options, call or visit your local financial advisor today.

Stephen W Shouse, Financial Advisor, AAMS 1514 S Alexander Street Suite 206 Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-9400 Tim Shuff, Financial Advisor, AAMS 104 N Evers St Suite 102 Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-1071 Luke Carvalho, Financial Advisor 2501 Thonotosassa Rd Plant City, FL 33563 813-759-1491 24

october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Carly Flynn, Financial Advisor 2501 Thonotosassa Rd Plant City, FL 33563 813-759-1491

Local » Focus

Wine & Dine For

Join Us For

Dinner Every Friday Evening

49

$

• 2 Salads • 2 Entrees

• 1 Bottle of Wine

• 1 Dessert

Fri 5pm-10pm Curves members did their part to raise awareness of how Curves strengthens women’s health and fitness.

Photos courtesy of Bonnie Gwin

Curves C

Not for Sissies

Written By: Cheryl Johnston

urves members enjoyed two brisk walks for a cause through town recently.

According to Bonnie Gwin, the Plant City club’s manager for 11 years, “The promotion of Curves Not for Sissie’s Day celebrates the millions of women reaching weight-loss goals becoming healthy and stronger through three times weekly workouts.”

On September 21, one group met at McCall Park carrying “Curves – Not for Sissies” signs. After the walk through the historic district, they lunched together at the Manatee Bay Café, a prize donor for the event’s auction.

That evening, another group walked the Alexander Street and James Redman Parkway intersection and several times through the Strawberry Plaza parking areas.

Curves is the world’s largest fitness franchise with nearly 10,000 locations in over 70 countries. It was the first facility designed specifically to help women lose weight, gain muscle strength, raise metabolism with aerobic activity, and contribute to healthy bones, muscles and joints.

The complete fitness and nutrition solution begins with 30-minute workouts, which exercise every major muscle group and burns up to 500 calories through a scientifically proven program of strength training, cardio and stretching. The free

weight management classes of Curves 30Day Diet Plan offer nutritional guidance to help members reach their goals.

Curves believes in community, too. Club promotions and events encourage members to support charitable causes, learn about health-related issues and forge lasting friendships as part of the global Curves community.

In Octboer, for the American Cancer Society, Curves Plant City is involved in the following efforts: Brenda Norman of Celebrating Home displayed interior decor selections at Curves, from which 50% of the sales benefited ACS.

Dont Miss the

Halloween BooBerry BASH

October 30th 7-11pm

UNCORK YOUR WEEK!

Balloon artist Lynn Galindo decorated the club with 1200 themed balloon creations for Breast Cancer awareness.

Carolyn Sharkas of Stampin’ Up created a unique card. Each purchase benefits ACS. Plant City Curves members teamed with Valrico and two Lakeland clubs to walk Lake Hollingsworth in the Making Strides annual fundraiser.

Ladies, stop in M-F from 6:30AM-1PM and 3-7PM or Saturdays 8-11AM to see for yourself how a Curves membership can enrich your life. The Plant City Curves is located at 1822 James L. Redman Parkway.

For more details visit www.curvesplantcity. com.

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

25

Thank you Plant City for 4 Years in Business!

Where do you go for objective investment guidance?

Objective investment guidance starts with objective research. As America’s largest independent brokerage firm,* LPL Financial is one of the few sources of unbiased research – uninfluenced by investment banking activities or corporate relationships like some other firms.

The LPL Financial Research team performs in-depth research on bonds, mutual funds, annuities and investment managers across every asset class. This unbiased, independent research is the foundation for investment recommendations that are truly in your best interest.

Contact us today for more information or to schedule a one-on-one consultation.

Michael S. Cameron Investment Planner 110 W. Reynolds St Suite 109 Plant City, FL 33563

813-759-8485

michaels.cameron@lpl.com

A Registered Investment Adviser Member FINRA/SIPC

*As reported by Financial Planning Magazine, June 1996-2007, based on total revenue.

20 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

ALLCARE

REHABILITATION Dan Manfre, PT ~ President

OUTPATIENT PHYSICAL THERAPY CENTER SINCE 1990

WE CARE WE LISTEN W E G E T R E S U LT S When you need Physical Therapy consider choosing Allcare Rehabilitation. Allcare has been providing the Plant City Community with excellent care for over 20 years.

1214 W. Reynolds St. Ste. 1, Plant City, FL • Phone: (813) 754-1062 Fax: (813) 759-8254 • www.Allcare-Rehab.com

*Medicare and Most Insurances Accepted

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october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

• Roaches • Ants • Spiders • Carpenter Ants (inside & outside) • Fleas & Ticks (inside & outside) • Service tubes in the wall

Owned and Operated by Steve and Kathy Paul Born and raised in Plant City, Kathy and Steve would love to serve your pest control needs.

Servicing Hillsborough, West Polk, and Pasco Counties

www.homeprotectionpc.com • email: homepropc@gmail.com

3909 N. Keene Rd. • Plant City, FL 33565 Office: 813.757.6752 • Cell: 813.716.0623

Plant City’s Hometown Plumber You Can Depend On

FREDDIE MULLIS PLUMBING, INC. (Not F.C. Mullis Plumbing)

Repipe Experts Family Owned & Operated Since 1984

WE GUARANTEE ALL OUR WORK BONDED & INSURED Lic. # RF0066444

-Leaks Repaired

-Toilets

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813-754-0317 foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

27

Local » Focus

Tara Parker with some supporters and friends.

Photo by Chris Braglin

Making C.F. stand for Cure Found Tara’s Rock N Roses Fundraising Event I Written By: Megan Braglin

magine a petite blonde with a smart mind and a love of life that just won’t quit. Now imagine that young lady spending her life battling a terrible disease that puts her life in jeopardy on a daily basis. She must begin every morning and every evening on many medicines and breathing treatments to allow her lungs to simply take in oxygen that should come naturally. That young lady is Tara Parker and she is determined to change her future. Tara was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis when she was only 6-months-old.

The doctors at that time did not give her parents much hope for a long life. Parker is determined to live a full and happy existence. She credits her faith in the Lord, her family and friends support, and her determination to find a cure.

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In order to aide in the fundraising required to support valuable research for this cure, Parker developed the idea to have a fun night out with music and festivities. What developed from this idea was much more than Parker even could imagine. With the help of some great committee members and the community, more than 175 people joined Parker and her committee the evening of September 25, in the fight to find a cure to C.F. This grand event took place at Keel and Curley Winery.

Attendees were treated to scrumptious food donated by area restaurants such as Applebee’s, Beef O’ Brady’s, Carraba’s, and Outback Steakhouse. Keel and Curley not only donated the facilities, but also complimentary beverages for the event.

The silent auction featured plenty of items

on which guests could bid, as well as 65 roses for sale for a dollar each. Each numbered rose was entered into a lottery to win a free flower arrangement a month for a year from All In Bloom Florist.

Some of the most rockin’ music could be heard throughout the night from the local band, 10th Concession. Matthew Brady, one of the musicians, was friends with Parker long before he was in a band.

Parker and friend Stephanie Schulte had heard of the group, and just had to have them be the “Rock” in the title of the event. Not only were the guests treated to yummy food and music, but Focus Magazine’s own Dede Floyd, also owner of Zyne Design, was on hand to display her creative and blingy shirts. Each member of the committee sported their own

custom made shirt, which Floyd graciously donated. Emcees for the evening, WLKF 1430 AM talk radio host “Coach” Jones and Louri Townsend, did a fabulous job of revving the crowd up for bidding and buying raffle roses. Amber Rogers and Paul Lovelace attended the event in hopes that Parker’s search for a cure happens in her lifetime and found the venue “gorgeous.”

Parker plans to make this an annual event in the Plant City community until a cure is found. Then, knowing her kind heart, she will find another cause to benefit. Her tenacity for life is inspiring, her love for her fellow man is unrelenting, and her devotion to her faith is affirming. For more information or donations visit www. rocknroses.org

HOPEWELL Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens

4 out of 5 dentists recommend KARATE over candy!

We offer classes for adults and children of all ages and skill levels. If you want to enjoy a positive activity with your family, find a fun way to get some exercise, or become a serious competitor, there are classes for you.

Hopewell Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens will host their

25TH ANNUAL VETERANS DAY CEREMONY ON THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2010.

The program will begin at 10:30 a.m.

Scary Special

To be held at the VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK AT COURIER FIELD 703 North Wheeler Street in Plant City.

“$50 Introductory Offer Includes a FREE Uniform!”

Students from the local schools will offer reflections entitled “What Veterans Day Means To Me.” The entire event will pay tribute to all Veterans. You will not want to miss this!

Refreshments will be served.

SEE YOU THERE!

6005 County Rd. 39 South 1/2 MileCounty South of County Road 60 6005 Rd. 39 South

813.737.3128 www.hopewellfuneralhome.com 813.737.3128

Family Law Divorce • Alimony Child Support • Paternity Custody & Visitation Post Judgement Modifications

Personal Injury

(813) 752-9800

www.PlantCityKarate.com

HA PPY HA LLOWE EN

photo by Suzanne Gallagher

Criminal Law Felony & Misdemeanors Domestic Violence Bond Reductions Drug Charges Assault & Battery DUIs Sealing or Expungements

Business Litigation Corporate Law Real Estate

Catastrophic Injuries Wrongful Death Auto & Motorcycle Accidents Insurance Claims Slip & Falls Injuries from Defective Products 24/7 Appointments • Free Hospital and Home Calls Credit Cards Accepted • Habla Español

Johnnie B. Byrd, Jr.

David H. Barnhill

Byrd & Barnhill, P.L. AttoRnEyS At LAW

813.759.1224

206 n. Collins St.· In Historic Downtown Plant City

www.byrd-law.com The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based upon advertisements. Before choosing a lawyer ask for written information about the lawyer’s legal qualifications and experience.

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

29

Local » Focus

The Allen James Band (not pictured is Jeff Leighton, Bass player) Photo by: Tony Cartagena

The Allen James Oldies, Country Rock and Roll, Bandand Blues from the 50s to the 70s P Written By: John ross

lant City, 1969: Allen James Barenklau graduates from Plant City High School alongside future band mates Danny Devane and Blake McDonald. Later they travel the globe, became world-class musicians and are now back in hometown Plant City, joined by fellow members Dennis Leones and Jeff Leighton.

Focus was given the opportunity for an exclusive interview with band. They

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october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

play “good time music” from the 50s to the 70s as the website says (www. theallenjamesband.com), and they accommodate other styles. “Can you guys play a song that has been requested which you’ve never practiced before?” we asked with excitement. “Pretty much,” replied Blake, with nods from the other members.

“You name it, we’ll play it.”

Blake, guitarist and vocalist, has grown up with a passion for music. “It’s great fun. It’s

a hoot!” he gestured. He was on the Plant City High School football team before being stationed in Germany in the early 1970s while in the United States military.

Danny Devane, keyboardist, played in the Plant City High School band and went on to become a veteran of the Korean War. We asked how he got into music. “You get into music early, and you never get out. It’s like Hotel California- you never leave.” He has been playing music professionally for 25 years.

Dennis Leones, drummer, is notably both a double Bronze Star Medal and a double Purple Heart recipient from the Vietnam War. As the website says, “he feels he is the second best drummer in the world (everyone else is tied for first). Once opened for the Stones (the kidney stones)” Jeff Leighton, bass player and vocalist,

learned base at a young age and has kept at it since.

Allen James Barenklau is the “rock of the band,” as band mate Blake affectionately put it. There’s a story of how he once stacked two pieces of plywood on top of a pool table at a bar just to make sure the gig got done. He has been playing professionally since age 16.

“We have about 200 years of experience between us,” said Dennis.

On September 11, they donated their time to play out in Dade City at a benefit for Marcy Green, a woman who lost a long struggle with cancer. “It was a well run show,” said Blake, guitarist.

To book the Allen James Band for your next event, contact them at their website.

For music samples, visit their website or go to www.myspace.com/theallenjamesband.

Part-time Massage Therapist Needed

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1 hour facial,pedi, mani

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$65

ESTHETICIAN: Sloan Short

The Breeze • 813-754-6592 Plant City, FL

BEAT THE HEAT AND TAN INSIDE

MESSAGE THERAPIST: Terry Sutorus (MA# 43989)

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NAIL TECHNICIAN: Nancy NgA Tran, Pierre Nguyen

$35

Tanning plus tax

The Breeze • 813-754-6592 Plant City, FL

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one-hour massage for 1st time client

RECEPTIONIST: Amanda Jernigan

The Breeze • 813-754-6592 Plant City, FL

Looking for Part-Time and Full-Time Hair Stylists.

(Booth rent and commission available)

813-754-6592

Location: 1309 South Collins St. Suite 3, Plant City 33566

By Brooklyn Bridge Deli and in front of “Save A Lot” store • Se Habla Español

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

31

Local » Focus

truth christian store helped history come to life with the display of ed wasserman’s ancient collection. Photo by Cheryl Johnston

The Last Supper Unveiled at Truth Collection Christian Store T Written By: Cheryl Johnston

he truth was evident at Truth last month when The Last Supper Collection exhibit encouraged and amazed attendees.

Truth Christian Store & Event Center welcomed visitors September 18 to the free display of pottery, coins, implements, and artwork reflecting life in the time of Christ.

Eleazar Ben Aurichin, a historian of Roman Palestine known also as Edward Wasserman, had patiently gathered the artifacts over a period of many years, but only a few items had ever been publicly displayed.

The unique collection consists of 52 intact bowls, plates, drinking cups, pitchers, a large amphora, oil lamps and a chalice used in Judea from 100 BC through 100 AD. Also included were ancient crucifixion nails, medical instruments, coins, tools of the carpenter and tent maker, fisherman’s implements and more.

These rare relics helped the Gospels come

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october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

alive for guests. Christian Perez of Durant High School remarked, “Seeing all these artifacts today only proves God is real.”

Beth Eppley called the event “such a confirmation of our faith.”

When Wasserman was four-and-a-half years old, Jesus appeared to him. Born to Jewish parents, Wasserman said the man had knowledge of his immediate and extended family. Jesus told Wasserman he would be facing challenges shortly, but not to be concerned because he would come through just fine. Six months later, Wasserman contracted polio, and even though it was a long, drawn out recovery, he had a great sense of peace.

He grew up at Kibbutz Hazoreah in north central Israel and was partially educated there. His family members held dual citizenship and traveled between Israel and NY/Connecticut.

Wasserman read from the New Testament gospels at age 14. This experience, he says, “imprinted my heart somehow and I knew when things were authentic.”

His decision not to be bar mitzvahed created family division. Using his advanced education, he eventually taught Comparative Religion in Israel, and at Cambridge Boston and Yale universities.

He also served as an Israeli combat medic in the Yom Kippur War. His mother, who worked at Yale Medical Center, also came to faith in Christ.

Wasserman described his faith walk today as one in which “contemplative prayer is steeped in my heart, almost in a monastic way.” He said, “That walk started at the heart level as a small child and that’s where I’m comfortable. I want the heartfelt relationship with God.” He also credits God for helping him to “be open, rather than stern and judgmental.”

He invites seekers to “Just present yourself to Him and allow Him to communicate with you.”

Sally Baker regarded Mr. Wasserman’s collection “as a priceless, once-in-alifetime opportunity. Imagine artifacts from Jesus’ time right here in Plant City.”

Kevin MacKenziie of First Baptist Church of Midway agreed, describing the “excellent collection of regional culture normally seen in major museums. From the tools used by doctors, fishermen, soldiers, and carpenters, it was a surprise as to how advanced the technology was for so long ago.”

Another DHS student, Elton Benjamin Marcus said: “Seeing all these different items shows me how intelligent the ancient world was and how intricate the devices are.”

Bette Heydrick described the exhibit as “absolutely fascinating – impressive, beautifully displayed and well-documented with helpful pictures and maps. Mr. Wasserman’s typed handout and the Shroud of Turin display were exceptionally thought provoking.”

Locals comment through Truth’s Facebook page, too. Glenda LandskronerBlack wrote: “Thanks so much for this community opportunity. It was breathtaking to know this was from the time of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior!

What a blessing!”

With continued community support, Truth desires to showcase Christian art, talent, and ministries regularly. As a resource center for churches, they sell Christian books, music and gifts. The Event Center is available for luncheons, business meetings, Bible studies, seminars and parties.

Please phone 813-363-1582 and visit often at 301 S. Collins Street. Also, check www.truthchristianstore.com or Facebook for upcoming events.

813-315-9850 522 Oakfield Dr Brandon, FL 33511

Are you or someone you know bothered by ringing in the ears?

Dr. Lisa E. Tanner

This ringing, buzzing, hissing or cricket sound is called tinnitus.

Tinnitus can be temporary or permanent. It can be constant or intermittent.

Tinnitus is a symptom that can be related to almost every known hearing problem.

Temporary tinnitus can be caused by loud noise exposure, middle or inner ear infections and even too much wax in the ear canal.

Sometimes tinnitus can be treated medically other times tinnitus must be managed.

If you or a loved one have questions about tinnitus. Please contact us at Advanced Diagnostics & Hearing Solutions our goal is to help patients understand and gain control over their tinnitus, rather than tinnitus having control over them.

Remember IT IS RECOMMENDED that everyone’s hearing be screened at least every 10 years through age 50. After that it should be screened every 3-years, sooner if they have a conditions that place them at risk for hearing impairment.

If you have not had your hearing screened, please call us for a FREE hearing screening performed by a doctor of audiology in an audiometric sound booth.

To learn more about Dr. Tanner and Advanced Diagnotics and Hearing Solutions, please visit us online at www.adhs-brandon.com

PET PARADE

Saturday, October 30 at 11 am ALL Types of Pets Welcome!

Bring your pet dressed in its best costume to compete for:

GO GATORS

Prettiest • Funniest • Scariest • Most Original

Treat Bag will be given to first 20 entries and grand prize given to all four winners.

One Grand Prize Given to Best Overall in Children’s Division (Ages 12 & Under)

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

33

Local » did you know

Lennox Edgeworth Morgan, Jr. Railroad Man and Civic Leader R submitted By: Plant City Photo Archives & History Center

eviewing articles about Plant City, mostly written by Panky Snow, (nee Mary Frances Morgan), we came across numerous references to her father, Lennox Edgeworth Morgan, Jr., commonly known as “Rat”. There are also several complimentary references to him in the Bruton and Bailey book on the history of Plant City. Born in Moultrie, Georgia, January 22, 1901, Morgan moved to Plant City after college and became a leading citizen for many years. The more we learned about L.E. Morgan, Jr., and his family, the more interesting this all became.

Luscious Eldridge Morgan, Sr., (born in Americus, Georgia, in 1875), and Mary (Blasingame) Morgan lived in Moultrie, Georgia, then moved to Dothan, Alabama, where L.E. Morgan began in real estate in 1912. Having had to drop out of school to help his widowed mother and her younger children, Luscious Eldridge Morgan labored to become a self-educated man. It was said of him that “Mr. Morgan was one of the best-read and most informed men in the community.” He was also a writer and published some of his poems and prose articles.

Feathers, By Rat Morgan. (A Petrel is a sea-going bird that resembles a grey and white Gull.) Morgan was also Class President, a Cheer Leader, and a confirmed member of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. He graduated in 1923 and migrated to Plant City.

In Plant City Rat Morgan made friends quickly and entered the produce business.

He also met Elva Sanderson, whose parents, F. Monroe Sanderson and Frances Susan Lightsey Sanderson, were early residents of Plant City. Her grandparents, Stephen J. and Elizabeth Lott Lightsey, settled in Keysville after the Civil War. Rat and Elva were married September 5, 1925, in Tampa.

Morgan gained experience in shipping produce and joined Seaboard Air Line Railroad in 1928. He retired 38 years later on June 30, 1966, as Assistant Freight Traffic Manager at the Tampa station. He worked the rail system from Tampa to New York and had business connections throughout the Southeast.

Upon his retirement, he received a congratulatory letter from Richmond, Virginia, from the President of the L.E. Morgan, Sr., moved to Plant City railroad. His retirement announcement in 1929 and set up a real estate and land read: “After more than thirty-eight years development business. He was active in the of faithful and effective service with this community and organized the Men’s Bible company.” His retirement dinner was Class at the First Presbyterian Church in held at the well-known Las Novedades 1930 and taught there for about 28 years.

Restaurant in Tampa, June 24, 1966, He died in May 1976 at the age of 100. where he was called “Mr. Rat” – Radiant – Attentive – Thoughtful.

Encouraged by his parents to pursue his education, young Lennox Edgeworth “Rat” In addition to being active with the Tampa Morgan entered Oglethorpe University in Chamber of Commerce Committee of the Fall of 1919. Oglethorpe University 100, (its economic development arm), was founded in 1835 but was closed and Rat Morgan was very active in the Plant reopened several times. It reopened again City community. As was his father, L.E. in 1915 in Atlanta, Georgia, as a four-year Morgan, Jr., was an elder and was active liberal arts college based on the English in the First Presbyterian Church. He was educational principles similar to Oxford in the National Guard for five years and University. during WWII served as Chairman of the Plant City Ration Board for three years.

By his junior year, Rat Morgan was well known and well liked at Oglethorpe – he Morgan was part of the group promoting was the assistant editor of the university’s the construction of a hospital in Plant paper – The Petrel – and wrote a regular City, and when the Hospital Committee column, mostly humorous, called Petrel was formed, in 1944, at a meeting in the

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october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Sanderson “Sukey” Morgan, remained in Plant City until 1986 when her health required her to move into a nursing home, first in Tampa, and then in Gainesville, where daughter Gloria (Dodo) Morgan Condo lived. Elva Morgan died there in November 1998. Elva “Sukey” Morgan Rat Morgan was elected Mayor of Plant was a graduate of Florida State College City in 1946, 1947, 1948, and again in 1953. He served on the City Commission for Women, and also received a teaching certificate from Florida Southern College.

1946 -1954, and again 1967-1969.

Besides teaching in the public schools, she taught her children an appreciation for The Plant City Junior Chamber of the arts – ballet, classical music, Broadway Commerce established its Good shows, and more. The Morgans had two Government Award in 1959, and in 1965 the Jaycees honored Rat Morgan with the daughters, Gloria “Dodo” Morgan, who married Kline Condo, and Mary Frances Good Government Award.

“Panky” Morgan, who married Horst After retirement from the railroad in 1966, Glamsch, and later married Richard Snow.

Rat Morgan joined the Hillsboro Bank Sources: Panky Snow, Oglethorpe as a Vice President and served in that University papers, Quintilla Bruton and capacity until his second retirement. And David E. Bailey, Jr., Plant City; Its Origin at the invitation of Quintilla Bruton he served on the Library Board in Plant City and History, 1984, The Courier May 26, 1976, letters and papers of Lennox E. for a number of years.

Morgan, Jr., Plant City Photo Archives & History Center photograph collection and Lennox Edgeworth Morgan, Jr., died oral interview projects.

March 14, 1984, at age 83. His wife, Elva Tampa Electric Kitchen in the Hotel Plant, he was elected Vice Chairman. For years he worked with his friend, Judge James D. Bruton, to raise funds for the South Florida Baptist Hospital project.

Max F. Rattes, M.D., F.A.C.C. B OA R D C E R T I F I E D C A R D I O L O G Y

Pumpkin

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Order a festive fall pumpkin bouquet

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813-752-3456 310 W. ALEXANDER ST PLANT CITY, FL 33563 11904 BOYETTE ROAD RIVERVIEW , FLORIDA 33569

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

35

Local » chamber of commerce

GREATER PLANT CITY

T

he Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce welcomes a new Membership Director, Jennifer Chamberlain, replacing Susan Wilson who decided to pursue other interests.

Jennifer comes to Plant City with a wealth of experience in human resources management along with training and development of employees from administrative to sales and marketing. She worked extensively in the retail and business services environment for over fifteen years and this experience has provided Jennifer with an acute understanding of customer’s needs.

During her career she has specialized in leadership & organizational development, sales training, process development & improvement, staff recruitment and retention, employee relations, compensation, benefits administration, health and safety management and performance management.

Jennifer lives in Plant City with her husband Karl and 2 boys, Chase and Tanner.

Welcome to the Chamber, Jennifer!

Early voting will start on October 18 th. You can cast your vote at City Hall in downtown Plant City.

The BRUTON MEMORIAL LIBRARY will feature a program entitled “Wild Florida Alive” at 3:30 PM on Tuesday, October 19 th. This is an environmental adventure highlighting Florida’s endangered species through live theatre, storytelling, shadows, masks and original music. Free tickets will be available at the Library starting October 12.

In support of Plant City area youth, The OPTIMIST CLUB OF PLANT CITY extends an invitation to you for their 16 th.

Annual Plant City Optimist Club/Plant City Recreation & Parks Department Golf Tournament.

This is a fundraiser for Youth Flag Football, Youth Basketball, Youth Soccer, Little League Baseball, Steppin’ Stone Farm, Youth Appreciation Week, a great Oratorical Contest, Easter Egg Hunt, Respect for Law Week, High School Graduate Scholarships and the Tri Star Sport Skills Competitions.

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october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE submitted By: bruce rodwell

This Annual event will take place on Saturday, October 23 rd. at the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club. Registration will begin at 11 AM with a shotgun start at 1 PM. The format is a 4-person scramble. For more information, call Walt Arnold 813752-1602, Pat Stottlemyer at 813-759-1019, Paul Woods 813-752-0356 or Jeb Hicks 813-754-8804.

The Chamber’s Business After Hours will take place on Thursday, October 21 st. at CRAWFORD-HILL INTERIOR DESIGNS, INC., 1407 East Baker Street, Plant City. This is a great time to meet and socialize with Chamber members and also look over all of the great offerings available at Crawford-Hill. Time of this event is 5:15 to 7 PM Please call the Chamber office to RSVP at 813-754-3707. Admission is complimentary.

The LUNCH & LEARN series continues on October 28 th. at the Trinkle Center, 2206 East Cherry Street. This gets underway at noon and the cost is $7.00 which includes lunch. Call Terri Scott at 813-757-2190 for additional information.

The GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City is holding a barbeque chicken dinner to support scholarships and educational projects of the Club. This will be catered by Johnson’s Barbeque and will take place on Thursday, October 28 th. from 4 to 7 PM at the DEPOT in Plant City. This is a take out dinner and will be packaged in a take-home box ready for you to enjoy. The meal will consists of ½ chicken, cole slaw, baked beans, roll and homemade dessert. All this for a $10.00 donation.

be fun, fun, fun. On top of that you will be supporting a great local mission, the PLANT CITY UNITED FOOD BANK. This event will take place on Friday, October 29 th. at George & Cassandra Banning’s backyard, 2506 Clubhouse Drive, Plant City.

The cost is $75. per person. RSVP no later than October 20 by calling 813-759-1638 or you can e-mail your reservations to: wenlake@aol.com.

The Greater Plant City Chamber’s Economic Development Council will hold their Annual BUSINESS OF THE YEAR banquet on Thursday, November 4th. at the Red Rose Inn & Suites. Ten businesses will have been nominated in four different categories. You will want to mark your calendars for this great event. Call the Chamber office for information and tickets at 813-754-3707.

The Chamber’s BIKE FEST will take place on Saturday, November 6 th. in downtown Plant City. Great family fun. Come look over the great motorcycles. Starts at 5 PM.

Also, on November 6 th. the EAST HILLSBOROUGH ART GUILD will present “Art in the Park” at Walden Lake.

This event will start at 10 AM and go to 3 PM. For information, call Nancy Driscoll at 813-757-9700.

The PREGNANCY CARE CENTER OF PLANT CITY is holding their Annual Celebration of Life banquet at the John R. Trinkle Center, HCC at 6 PM on Tuesday, November 9 th. The theme this year is “Happy Birthday Baby”. Individual tickets are

$25. and sponsor tables of eight are available for $250. This is always a great event. Tickets and additional information is available by calling 813-759-0886.

The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce monthly CONTACT BREAKFAST will take place at the Red Rose Inn & Suite ballroom on Wednesday, November 10 th. Always a great program.

Starts at 7:30 AM. Cost of the breakfast is $15. Please call the Chamber to RSVP at 813-754-3707.

Don’t forget DANCING WITH THE LOCALS sponsored by the Plant City Noontime Rotary Club. This fun filled evening takes place at the Red Rose Ballroom on Friday, November 12 th. Call Aaron Davis at 813-754-4444 for tickets and additional information.

The Chamber’s STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CAR SHOW will be held November 20 th. at McCall Park in downtown Plant City.

This show will feature all years and all models of Ford Mustangs. Great fun event for the entire family. Free admission, featuring 50’s, 60’s and 70’s music. 50/50 drawing. Specialty shops and restaurants open LATE. REMEMBER TO SUPPORT YOUR GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERS SHOP & PATRONIZE THE BUSINESSES WHERE YOU SEE THE SIGN MEMBER GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

For information, call Sandra Lodato at 813982-0199.

How about a CRACKER COUNTRY FEST sponsored by the Plant City Day Break Rotary Club to benefit the United Food Bank of Plant City? That’s right! Join in the fun of old time country food. The dress is casual, the food and drink will make you want more and the atmosphere will

http://www.plantcity.org/

CHAMBER ribbon cuttings

You’re Invited To:

n

io t a r b le e C ll a F ’s h Shilo Hosted by Shiloh Baptist Church, Shiloh Baptist Preschool & Shiloh Charter School 905 West Terrace Drive, Plant City, FL 33563

September 2nd Ribbon cutting Cowboys Western World Don Mitchell, Owner 106 State Road 60 East 813-650-8888 Don@cowboyswesternworld.com

(813) 754-7445

Trunk or Treat jousting

snow cones

popcorn

lots of games

September 30th Ribbon Cutting Sams New Developement Larry Sams, President 1501 South Alexander Street, Suite 102 larry@samsnewdevelopment.com www.samsnewdevelopment.com

cotton candy

October 31, 2010 6:00pm - 8:00pm

exotic creatures

dunk Tank & giveaways

fun

s

me u t s o c

hotdogs

giant slide & moonwalks live band candy filled Trunks Please make plans to join us for FUN, FOOD, GAMES & MORE! October 5th Ribbon Cutting Republican Club of Plant City MarDee Buchman, President 813-754-5018 mbuch@tampabay.rr.com www.republicanclubofplantcity.org

All games & fun are

FREE

Concession items will be 50¢ Hot dogs, french fries & drinks will cost $1 each. *For more information see the event calendar

Isn’t it beautiful?

September 7th Ribbon Cutting State Farm Insurance - Tony Lee Tony Lee CLU, Agent 1605 South Alexander Street, Suite 103 813-752-7202 tony@tonyleeagent.com

Let’s keep it that way!

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

37

Local » Focus

pasco bug jam D ave Clark’s love affair with Volkswagens began in the sixties when he created a dune buggy to carry his first love, Cheryl, along the shores of Lake Michigan.

In the years that followed Clark propelled that VW love into a thriving Plant City business, Sundance Bug and Buggy.

But that love affair came to an end Dec. 10, 2009 when Clark died. His legacy, however, lives on through the Volkswagen community that continues to remember the man and his love, not only for VWs but for his family and country.

The 22nd annual Pasco Bug Jam, slated for Nov. 14 at the Pasco County Fairgrounds in Dade City, will be dedicated in memory of Clark who had been a sponsor since the Volkswagen show was founded. In addition, a memorial run will be held Nov. 13 from the fairgrounds to downtown Dade City.

Clark made many friends since moving to Plant City where he opened his business in 1982. After all, his customers became his friends.

“Back when I met Dave, the technological luxuries we are accustomed to weren’t available,” an anonymous person wrote in an e-mail after learning through the

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october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

dedicated to the memory of dave clark submitted By: carol jeffares hedman

Bug Jam’s website that Clark had died.

“Magazines and the hard work of a knowledgeable man behind a counter were how people like myself were able to keep a Bug on the road. It’s hard to imagine how many times he answered questions and gave recommendations on parts, etcetera, for the ’68 Type I being built at the time.” …Just one customer of how many over the years?

“We agreed on parts and prices and he built a very strong engine. … That was back in the early ‘90s. In 1998 the car was reluctantly sold to pay medical bills. … Even after all of these years the sound of that engine is the most memorable of anything I’ve ever owned,” wrote the man who now lives 800 miles away and signed it only “from a former customer with tears in his eyes.”

Cheryl Clark said she has had a lot of such sentiments in the months since her husband died, Dec. 10, 2009. But, knowing Volkswagen people, she said, who would expect less?

“It’s like being broken down on the side of the road in a Volkswagen. Somebody’s going to stop,” she said.

Born Nov. 26, 1943, in Lansing, MI, Clark married his high school sweetheart in 1964. While in high school Clark

was recruited for on-the-job mechanics training at a local Ford dealership where he went to work after graduation. But, he was drafted in 1966, serving in the Army.

Wounded twice, he was discharged in 1968, and returned to the dealership.

In his spare time he built a dune buggy in the garage behind his house and his love affair with VWs began in earnest. In 1975 he opened his own shop and started specializing in VWs.

He continued to build dune buggies and raced them off road. The couple also expanded their family with son Steve in 1970 and daughter Jenny in 1974. They traveled the country racing off road, and on one of those trips came to Florida where they decided to make their home.

“The economy in Lansing was based on the automotive industry, and it wasn’t good times. It was a good time to move,” Cheryl said.

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october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Dancing with the Locals T

FEATURE BY: BRIAN WEST | PHOTOS BY: MIKE FLOYD

he Plant City Rotary Club is known as the host for one of the area’s best fundraisers, the Wild Game Cookout, a stag event held each year the first week in April. Mac McGrath is a Past President with the Club, and during his Presidency, he shared with his wife that the Rotary Club really needed another great fundraiser. After some thought, Lisa had an idea - an idea for a fundraiser that’s become almost as popular as the Wild Game Cookout. She knew of the television show, Dancing with the Stars, and thought about a way to use the same concept as a fundraising opportunity for the Rotary Club that could bring it to the “locals.” Lisa did some research for the idea, including attending an event held in Tampa that involved some celebrities. After witnessing the event, Lisa thought to herself, “I can do this.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 42

Two to Tango

It Takes CONTINUED FROM PAGE 41

The concept for the television show is pretty simple.

Talented and award winning dancers, both male and female, are paired up with a celebrity to compete in weekly competitions. They train for weeks just learning basic dancing and then the competition begins. Each week, each couple competes on the show. After each dance, the couples are scored from 1 to 10 – with 10 being the highest score, by a panel of three judges. The following night the show picks up where it left off for “elimination night” because one couple will leave the show each week. However, the couple leaving the show isn’t determined by the judges scoring. Viewers are encouraged to phone in their votes for their favorite couple. The couple with the least votes leaves the show. This can be upsetting sometimes because viewers often vote for people who aren’t necessarily the best dancers

S

teve Swantek grew up in Brandon and his wife, Courtney, was raised in Plant City. They were engaged in February 2009 and were married four months later. Steve is a graduate of Jesuit High School in Tampa. He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Florida and a Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Virginia Tech. Steve is Vice President and coowner of SkyLine Mechanical Services, Inc. Courtney graduated from Plant City High School and was a Cum Laude graduate from University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education.

She received her Master’s in Educational Leadership.

Courtney is the Assistant Principal of Educational Instruction at Mabry Elementary School in Tampa.

So Lisa’s idea to bring this in as a fundraiser for the club is basically the same concept as the television show, minus the television cameras and callers phoning in their votes for their favorite dancers. The first year, Lisa was given a small budget to work with and she assembled a committee to help her put the event together. It was an immediate success and the 3rd Annual Dancing with the Locals event will be held November 12, 2010 at the Red Rose Inn Ballroom.

This year, the Rotary Club selected 10 couples as the dancers. Each couple chose from a handful of dance instructors in the area, and the Rotary Club paid for 10 lessons for each couple. Couples can choose to take more lessons at their own expense, and some do. The “locals” are getting very competitive about their dancing. The couples were gathered together in August, and since the competition is held in midNovember, the couples have a couple of months for lessons, practicing their routines and soliciting for dollars.

Each couple must choose a dance and song and then spend their time learning the routine for the night of competition. Remember, there aren’t any phone calls for votes. This is where the brilliance of the fundraiser comes in. Instead, each couple works to raises money through sponsorships and pledges. The couple who raises the most money wins the competition.

Lisa said, “The Rotary Club is getting smarter about this as a fundraiser. The first two years, couples raised money through sponsorships. This year, pledges were added as another way for couples to raise money.”

Aaron and Leslie Davis won the inaugural event in 2008 and Rick and Di Lott were the winners in 2009.

The event became even more popular last year when Steve and Angie Nierman performed the famous dance routine from the 1987’s Dirty Dancing, between dance instructor, Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze) and Frances “Baby” Houseman ( Jennifer Gray). The routine was the climax of the movie and involved a lift that Baby practiced with Castle, over

STEVE AND COURTNEY SWANTEK

J

JODI SMITH AND JACK VASCONCELLAS

ack Vasconcellas and his wife, Dee, have 4 kids, Brooke, Jacob, Jessie and Scott, and twin nieces and 2 grandchildren, Mason and Marlee. Jack was born in California, moved to Europe, and ended up in Plant City at the age of 17. Vasconcellas earned a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management. He is the Director of Operations at South Florida Baptist Hospital. His wife didn’t want to dance, so he’s partnered with Jodi Smith. Smith moved to Plant City from Chicago, and is a graduate of Plant City High School, Hillsboro Community College and Florida Southern College. She currently works in Medical Staff Services at South Florida Baptist Hospital.

and over in the lake at Kellerman’s. The Nierman’s were the last couple to take the floor, but once they did and the music began, the room erupted with cheers. The Nierman’s delivered, all the way through to the lift at the end. You can find a video of the routine on myfocustv.com. There’s lots of cheering in the background, so it’s a little hard to hear the music, but you can definitely get a feel for the event.

There seems to be one common theme that each of the competitors will share when asked about their experience. Everyone agrees that this brought them closer together as a couple. Most of the men describe it as not being their first choice of activities to spend time with their partners. Some even admit to going into this with an attitude not far from “kicking and screaming,” but they all admit it was a fun experience.

For the married couples, it even created an opportunity to get away from the day-to-day monotony of life just spending time together, almost rediscovering one another and allowing them to get to know their partner even better.

Some of the words I’ve heard to describe the dance lessons are “challenging,” “tough,” and “intimidating.”

Imagine not knowing how to walk, as an adult, and learning for the first time. Now multiply that by 10 and you’re beginning to get an idea of how “challenging” it can be. The routines are choreographed by the instructors, and the difficulty of the routine seems to depend on a combination of the dance choice, song, physical ability of the couple, and the creativeness of the instructor.

The Rotary Club asks each of the competitors to submit their dance style and song choice to them as early in the process as possible. The dance style and song choice is then shared with the other competitors to avoid repeats. It motivates the competitors to get started as early as possible, and provides a livelier competition with everyone doing something different.

So the stage for 2010 is set. This year’s competitors include: Natalie Burgin and Jimmy Locklair, Mike and DeDe Floyd, Dr. B.J. Garrison and Ericca Hope, Brett and Kristen Hitchcock, Greg and Kim Horwadel, James Surrency and Holly Farmer, Jodi Smith and Jack Vasconcellas, Steve and Courtney Swantek, Ryan and Jennifer Townsend, and Brian and Jennifer West.

The Rotary Club works very hard throughout the year to raise money for its charities. This is another great event for the community to support. Some of the dancers are a little more prepared than others, but everyone is looking forward to having some fun on November 12, 2010. If you’re interested in tickets, please contact Aaron Davis at 754-4440. He’ll be happy to help you. Please come out and enjoy the evening with everyone, and if you can’t, make a pledge to your favorite dancers.

BRIAN AND JENNIFER WEST

B

rian and Jennifer West have been married for 12 years. They have two children, Elizabeth (6) and Elijah (3). Brian was born and raised in Plant City. Jennifer was born in Gainesville, Florida, but moved to Plant City when she was in elementary school.

Brian is a graduate of Plant City High School and earned a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in HR and Finance from Florida Southern College. Brian is the Maintenance Management Program Manager for Publix Super Markets. Jennifer is a graduate of Plant City High School and earned her Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of South Florida. She is employed with Hillsborough County Schools as the Principal of Riverview Elementary.

M

ike Floyd grew up in Tampa and graduated from Chamberlain High. DeDe is a lifelong resident of Plant City and graduated from Plant City High School. They met at a young age at the motocross track and it was nearly five years before they began dating. They have been married 14 years and have two handsome sons: Zane (10) and Zy (3). As owners of Floyd Publications (Focus Magazine, BMX Nation Magazine) and Zyne Designs, the Floyds are active in the Plant City community.

RYAN AND JENNIFER TOWNSEND

R

MIKE AND DEDE FLOYD

yan and Jennifer Townsend have been happily married for five years and have a beautiful, energetic 17 month old daughter, Skylar. Ryan was born and raised in Plant City. He graduated from Plant City High School in 1999 and started his first construction company in 2001.

Jennifer was raised in Valrico and moved to Plant City 7 years ago when she met Ryan. She is a graduate of the University of South Florida and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting. She is currently a stay-at-home mom but stays busy running her own accounting service and helping Ryan with the construction company.

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JAMES SURRENCY AND HOLLY FARMER

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DR. B.J. GARRISON AND ERICCA HOPE

ames G. Surrency Sr. was born in Plant City and raised in Dover. He graduated from Plant City High School, and later attended Polk Community College. He started his own business in 2001, Jameco, and today he works for WTS. Surrency has been married for 4 years to Anita Surrency. Together they have 4 children, James Jr. (30), Chelci (17), Troy (13) and Ryan (11). Holly Farmer was born and raised in Plant City. She has two sons, Jarrod (22) and Garrett (18). Holly graduated from Plant City High School and attended Hillsboro Community College. She has worked as a Model and Actress for many years in both print, TV and film, and is also an artist.

r. Garrison and Ericca, recently engaged, share their lives with Launa (5) and Austin (4). Dr. Garrison and Ericca first met at dance camp at the young age of eight. Dr. Garrison toured the states playing professional baseball and later set up practice with Caring Concepts Chiropractic in Plant City as a Chiropractic Physician.

Ericca followed her love of the arts with her company Fishhead Design Studio.

GREG AND KIM HORWADEL

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reg and Kim Horwadel have been married 21 years. They have three boys; Spencer, Kevin and Nicholas and are in the process of adopting a daughter, Traci. Greg served as the Assistant City Manager for several years before taking on the role of City Manager in January 2010.

Kim earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in dance.

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BRETT AND KRISTEN HITCHCOCK

rett and Kristen Hitchcock have been happily married 8 years. They have 4 children Hunter (6), Hannah (3), Hailey (3), and Hayden (8 months), keeping them extremely busy. Brett is a graduate of the University of South Florida.

He played golf professionally for 5 years and is currently Business Developer for Cornerstone Solutions Group. Kristen is also a graduate of the University of South Florida. She has worked for her parents at Parkesdale Farms Packing & Cooling, Inc. for 6 years. She is Immediate Past President of the GFWC Plant City Junior Woman’s Club where she still serves on the board as Recording Secretary.

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NATALIE BURGIN AND JIMMY LOCKLAIR

immy graduated in 2003 from Armwood High School where he was an athlete in multiple sports, including tennis and soccer. He received his Associates Degree from Hillsborough Community College and is looking to begin studies at the University of South Florida’s Sports Medicine College. Natalie Burgin was born and raised Plant City. Natalie is a 17-year-old senior and has been busy though out the past year in her studies, but the highlight of her year has been serving as the 2010 Strawberry Festival Queen. Jimmy was born and raised in Tampa Florida, he is 25 years old.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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Helen Parke

The Tie that Binds

I

Parke Family Matriarch Keeps the Family Together

Story by Brian West • Photography by Stephanie Humphrey Photography

n Plant City, most people have known Helen Parke as the wife of Roy Parke, the strawberry farmer from Dover. Roy was an innovator in strawberry farming.

He’s the one who had the idea to protect the strawberries and the blooms with water during freezing temperatures. There’s a saying that behind every good man, there’s a good woman. Helen was that woman to Roy. Since Roy’s passing, she’s continued to work with her family and be the tie that binds them together.

Focus: Where are you from, originally?

vegetable farm. Keeping the dry means they weren’t bred. We’d breed them so Parke: I was born in St. Louis, Missouri, they’d have their calves in the winter, and that was during the war, of course. so we’d have a big supply of milk in the But we came to Florida from Pennsylvania. winter when we didn’t have vegetables.

Erin, my granddaughter, is in Hawaii with her husband.

Focus: What does your family mean to you?

Focus: How did you meet your late husband, Focus: What brought you to Florida?

Roy? Parke: Roy’s mom and dad came down Parke: Roy was stationed there for a brief to Florida to visit. Roy had a niece who period of time. I worked in the Five & lived on the east coast. On their way back, Ten. It was like a K-Mart or a Wal-Mart, they drove through the center of the state that type of thing. I worked on what they by accident. They got into Plant City and called the stationary counter where they just loved it - being farmers. That was had books and newspapers. The boys 55 years ago and it was much more rural would come around, and truthfully, they than it is today, and it was really beautiful. were just flirting with everyone in there.

They called us and asked us to come down My counter was really busy. I was actually at Christmas. They’d found a place that going out with a young man at the time, they liked and wanted to know if we liked and Roy asked me out for a date, but I told it. So this was it. This is the original 10 him, “No.” He came back again, and again, acres, and of course we loved it, too. It was and again, until I finally thought I’d go out wonderful leaving the snow and cold and with him. So we went out and that was it. all that jazz behind us.

He had to go back to his base in Georgia, and he’d already asked me to marry him, Focus: What got you into farming to begin so I left home and went to Georgia and we with? got married. I was 17 years old when we married, and we were married for 66 years Parke: Roy’s family was originally from when he passed away.

Ireland, and that’s what they did. They were fifth generation farmers. It was Focus: How did you end up in totally different. But then again, farming is Pennsylvania? totally different today than what it was 55 years ago.

Parke: We moved to Pennsylvania after the war and lived there 10 years. We Focus: Tell me about your immediate family. farmed there, but it was an entirely different kind of farming. It was all Parke: We have 5 children: Cheryl, vegetables. We specialized in cantaloupe Sandee, Bobby, Colleen and Gary. Sandee and tomatoes, and we had a market and her husband, Hank, live near Trapnell there on one of the big highways, like Elementary, but everyone else is right we have on Highway 92 here. We also here within half a mile or so. We have 10 farmed Holsteins. We’d keep them dry grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. in the winter, while we were working the There are 30 here with us on Monday’s, but

Parke: The world! It would take a long time to explain.

Focus: I understand you cook dinner every Monday evening for the entire family?

Parke: We’ve been doing this for about two-and-a-half years. Roy liked to talk, and he was always go, go, go. After he had his stroke, he slowed down and eventually couldn’t speak at all. He wasn’t ill, fortunately. If he had any pains, they weren’t discernable. He didn’t complain at all and didn’t have any trouble eating. In fact, he ate well. We were very fortunate to have him, even though he couldn’t talk.

He could make himself known. When the kids would come in, he’d smile. Oh, that smile. He had a wonderful smile. Having them all here where he could enjoy them was great. I think the Monday night dinners were just a great way to bring everyone together for him. The first few times I didn’t know exactly how much to fix, but now I’ve got it down to a science.

At times it’s a little loud, but we feel safe.

The entire back yard is enclosed with a fence, and we have the tennis courts.

We’re not afraid of anyone getting out on the road. Everyone is just here enjoying each other. They get along so well. But in a single word, I’d say they’re very loyal.

They’re very protective of each other. They have their arguments like anyone else has with their family, but they’re constructive.

Everybody looks at things differently. We

continued on page 48

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

47

continued from page 47 really do have a good time. [Laughing] I know the neighbors probably wish we’d shut up.

Focus: How do you spend your time these days?

Parke: I’m not alone. I have Tuesday and Sunday nights where I’m not doing very much, but otherwise, I stay busy. I’m in good health. I’m not under the weather.

In fact, I told my doctor, Dr. Richter, the other day, that if he had more patients as healthy as me he’d have to get a second job.

None of my friends are ill, but I usually spend Sunday afternoons and evenings dropping them a line or sending them a picture or something. So really, Tuesday night is the only time I’m free and easy.

Focus: I understand that Parkesdale Farm Market was recognized for one of their desserts?

Parke: Yes, the Food Network did an interview with Jimmy, my grandson, just a couple of days after the Festival this year.

They contacted him by phone and said they’d be out to see him. They wanted to talk to him about the milkshakes and take some pictures. The milkshakes were voted as the third best dessert in the country.

Can you imagine? It’s quite an honor.

When they finished, they wanted to see

Helen working in Colleen’s Greenhouse 48

october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

our strawberry-shaped pool and take some pictures. I’d been at the Festival for the past 11 days. We’d leave the house at 7:00 a.m., go have breakfast and come home after 10:00 p.m., just like the rest of the family. My house wasn’t dirty, but it wasn’t buffed and ready from something like this. But when they finished looking at the pool, they asked to see some of the strawberry items in the house. They came in and interviewed me and took pictures.

Monday Nite Meals

Focus: Tell me about your work at the greenhouse.

Parke: Colleen and her husband, Terry, have the greenhouses. They specialize in peppers, primarily hot peppers. They also have a few sweet peppers. We have tomatoes and a few herbs and vegetables.

I go every day. We work from 7:00 a.m.

–4:00 p.m. There are 3 greenhouses, and we’re planting strawberry baskets right now. It’s nice, because when I wake up in the morning, I know what I’m doing. And I’m with my family all day long.

Focus: When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Parke: Probably a secretary. That’s my least talent, but in the 1940s it was a glamorous job. They were dressed up all day. I was raised that “wherever thou

goest, I will go.” It never occurred to me to ask Roy to do anything but farming. But it must have been my destiny because I’ve loved every minute of it. Sitting under a cow and milking. Have you ever milked a cow by hand? It’s a very soothing, comforting time with the cow. I enjoyed it.

so they get tired. But years ago, I always liked to finish the day reading a good book.

Parke is a sweet woman. When she talked of Roy, it was so obvious she loved him.

The thought of his smile nearly brought her to tears. She continues to cook for her family every Monday evening, all Focus: Tell me something about yourself that by herself. She doesn’t let them bring not everyone knows. anything other than themselves. For her, Monday evening dinners are just time with Parke: I like to read, and always have, but her family, those who are the most special my eyes aren’t as young as they used to be in her life.

Left to Right: Bobby, Helen, Gary Back: Sandee, Cheryl, Colleen

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

49

O’Neal & Sons Upholstery

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october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Before

After

Find More Stories @

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

51

business focus » Express Oil Change & Service Center of Seffner • 321 W. Martin Luther King Boulevard • 813-657-8949

Express OilExceptional Change & Service Center of Seffner Performance P

repare to be impressed by promptness and professionalism when you visit Express Oil Change & Service Center in Seffner.

According to owner Bill Foelker, “Our goal is to provide a superior experience. In addition to oil and fluid changes, we are a full service repair and tire center under one roof. Customer care, convenience, and reliability are the keys we use to build loyalty and repeat business.”

The privately held Express Oil Change & Service Center organization, headquartered in Birmingham, operates across eight southern states through 172 company and franchise locations. The Foelkers, Bill and Mary Ann, opened their business in August 2008 to provide services everyone needs for reasonable prices.

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october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

The “integrity in every action” company philosophy demands the very best of employees and provides the very best results for customers. People can trust the advice, information, and service they receive here.

Customers definitely notice a difference at the spotless facility.

Most become regulars because of the friendly attitudes. Technicians greet customers in the parking lot within 15 seconds of their arrival. If only the 10-minute, full service, drive-through oil change is required, customers can remain in the vehicle.

At the same time, employees perform a 20-point series of test checks. They replace oil and bring fluids including wiper, brake, power steering and antifreeze to proper

business focus » Express Oil Change & Service Center of Seffner • 321 W. Martin Luther King Boulevard • 813-657-8949

their trusted auto service provider now and levels. They also lubricate the chassis, steering, and suspension components while beyond.” inspecting for potential problems.

So, just how often should vehicle oil be changed?

If any are evident or the odometer indicates it’s time for certain services, the Express staff makes vehicle owners aware. Over 90% of mechanics responding to a National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) questionnaire What everyone does receive during every believe changing oil every 3,000 miles visit is great maintenance advice for their specific vehicle. Customers receive printed is the number one detail to proper materials and a computer generated vehicle maintenance. Even though Service Review. This provides the vehicle’s auto manufacturers may suggest longer intervals, the fine print mentions “normal” service history at Express, along with driving conditions. suggested attention at various mileage intervals.

Florida’s heat, humidity, sand, and salt air Employees also report on the systems and affect engine oil viscosity. Oil eventually parts in good shape, “one of the company’s loses its ability to lubricate, clean, and flow key responsibilities,” according to Foelker. freely. According to Women Motorist, “Changing the oil every 3,000 miles is What the staff won’t do is waste customers’ cheap insurance with extremely high cash time, require an appointment, or apply value.” pressure tactics to recommend or sell Satisfied customer referrals make Foelker’s unnecessary services.

Foelker says, “We just don’t believe there’s day. Trevor Swan of Largo paid a high compliment via e-mail recently for ever a need to pressure or recommend a exceptional service provided when the service that is not needed. We want to be

family’s vehicle struggled on I-4. Five minutes before closing time, the Swans were greeted warmly in the parking lot.

When it was evident the locking brake caliper repair required special parts and additional repair time, Foelker delivered the couple and their luggage to a restaurant where their son could connect.

As a professional customer service trainer for a billion dollar company, Swan typically analyzes service deficiencies for retailers around the world. He offered Express this praise: “If all businesses provided a consumer experience like your Seffner franchise, I would be out of work.”

For outstanding service from a trustworthy vehicle maintenance provider, drive into Express Oil Change & Service Center soon. You deserve the best and this company definitely excels. Located at 321 W. Martin Luther King Boulevard, (between Parsons and Kingsway), visit soon from 8-6 M-F and 8-5 on Saturday or phone 813-657-8949 for information.

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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business focus » promaka products llc. • 4707 140th ave., north, suite 306 • clearwater, fl 33762 • 727-345-4567

ProMaka products llc.

How do you know if the products you are using are truly green? Karen Townsend, owner of Integrated Building Maintenance Services, Inc., (a commercial janitorial service company) and the founder of ProMaka Products LLC, found that out the hard way.

Karen, originally from Indianapolis, Indiana is well-versed in the cleaning business. After starting her own company cleaning houses in Indiana, Karen decided to clean commercially. She began with KinderCare Learning Centers and grew her business to include such accounts as GAP stores in four states, Purdue University, numerous hospitals, as well as many government buildings and more. After building a successful business in Indiana, Karen decided to sell her company and move to Florida.

Having always had the entrepreneurial mind and spirit, she started her current cleaning company (IBMS) in Clearwater, which she has owned and operated since 2004. One of IBMS’s current accounts is a privately owned building and was the

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first LEED certified building in Pinellas County. LEED certification, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, promotes a whole building approach to being green. In order to be a LEED certified building, it must use green products which do not emit any volatile organic compounds (VOC’s).

Some LEED buildings have sensors which will alert when VOC’s are present. Karen discovered that many of the mainstream products her employees had been using, although supposedly green, set off the VOC sensors.

creating a greening environment

“My heritage is Native American,” said Karen. “I’m a naturalist. The word “Maka” means earth in Native American, so ProMaka means ProEarth. I have always been passionate about the environment and the harmful effects of the chemicals we use on a daily basis. I love being outdoors. I love children and animals and I am concerned about the future health of our children. That is why ProMaka’s mission statement is, ‘To create effective, earth-friendly products at cost-friendly prices; to educate as many people as possible on the effects of harmful, everyday products and the effects those products have on our children’s future.’”

ProMaka’s product line consists of 31 different products, 18 of which are EPAcertified through their Designed for the Environment (DFE) program. This was no easy accomplishment, as it is an earned, certification, not a “bought” certification.

“We have a wide variety of products, which include ready-to-use glass cleaner, organic toilet bowl cleaner, stainless steel sink cleaner, laundry detergent and numerous other products. Our “Grandioso” multipurpose cleaner is one of our most versatile products, while one of our most popular products is a cedar oil-based pest control product called Bye Bye Bugs. It This happened several times. So, after a is excellent for repelling ticks, fleas, ants, few different investments in new products mosquitoes and other unwanted pests.” and countless hours of research as to “We use ProMaka Products in all of the This product is also very effective on what green products were really supposed buildings we clean. We have used them bedbugs! Hotels love this product, because for the past year and a half and they have to consist of, Karen decided to hire a exceeded our expectations! My managers it can be applied safely to mattresses, chemist and create her own line of green closets, floors, chairs and sofas, without any products. Due to her desire to help protect continue to tell me, time after time, that our products work better than any products negative health effects on humans. the environment and out of a need to find products which would allow her to we have purchased in the past, whether perform to LEED standards, the ProMaka supposedly “green” or non-green. It makes Karen was so committed to the idea of their job easier when products really work protecting the environment that she line of products was born. and do what they are designed to do.” became a Certified Green Consultant and

business focus » promaka products llc. • 4707 140th ave., north, suite 306 • clearwater, fl 33762 • 727-345-4567 wants to certify other individuals who share her passion for being green. Her future plans include offering training classes for individuals who are interested in becoming distributors for ProMaka, as well as Certified Sustainability Representatives.

This would mean they would gain knowledge and expertise in green practices, and would be capable of certifying buildings in sustainable practices. Karen has certified several hotels nationally, and her efforts in teaching the hotel owners to follow her program has saved them tens of thousands of dollars.

Jennifer Smilee plays an integral role in ProMaka’s success. Karen and Jennifer met at Indulgence Day Spa, a spa that Jennifer owns in Brandon, and the two became great friends. Karen and Jennifer share a passion for protecting the environment. Jennifer has put her spa up for sale and has decided to commit her time to making a difference in our environment. Jennifer has recently joined ProMaka and she and Karen are now in the process of establishing a national organization which will bring together businesses that have a desire to network,

to protect the environment and to educate their employees on green awareness and sustainable practices.

“I’m excited about all of our products, I’m excited about our certification program, and I’m excited about the opportunity I have to make a difference in our world…a world we all share! My dad owned a pest control company for many years and fell ill due to the harmful effects of the chemicals. He required a lung transplant as a result. He wanted my sons to take over his company before he became aware of his health issue. I wish I had found Bye Bye Bugs years ago! I feel we all have an obligation to do our part to make this a safer planet. I feel it is my job to educate as many people as possible on the harmful effects of chemicals that we breathe daily, as well as the harmful effects of these chemicals when they enter our water supply. I can’t, in good conscience, keep quiet!”

movement. If you are interested in working with a friendly team, in a lowstress work environment, have a passion to make a difference in our environment and want to earn above average commissions on sales, please send an e-mail to info@ promakagreen.com.

“Our distributors have an edge because our products truly are green, our pricing is competitive, our products are effective, our training is real and we, as a whole, are MAKING A DIFFERENCE!”

Karen Townsend lives in Brandon, and ProMaka Products is headquartered in Clearwater. They are currently looking for distributors to be a part of the ProMaka

Recognized for Safer Chemistry www.epa.gov/dfe

CREATING A GREENING ENVIRONMENT A NATIVE AMERICAN COMPANY

GREEN CLEANING PRODUCTS

ProMaka Products are specialty maintenance and industrial cleaning products. Our company was founded on our passion and inherent responsibility to make a positive contribution to the well being of the planet.

“responsible corporate citizens promoting the “greening” of our earth”

727-345-4567 • www.promakagreen.com

4707 140th Ave., North, Suite 306 • Clearwater, FL 33762 • fax727-345-4568 foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

OCTOBER 15 RALPH ALLOCCO

& SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

OCTOBER 16 LOLA & THE SAINTS

Doo Wop At Its Best! Relive the 50s & 60s as though it was yesterday – “Forever in Love,” Just Over the Brooklyn Bridge.”

PLUS P.J. LEARY & THE LAS VEGAS SOUNDS with special guest KEN BRADY (Lead Singer of The Casinos), featuring the 1967 hit “Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye” before and after the show in the Red Rose Dining Room.

OCTOBER 22 RICHIE MERRITT

Richie Merritt of the Marcels will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room with P.J. Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds.

OCTOBER 23 SOUL MUSIC NIGHT WITH THE LEGENDARY DELFONICS TRIBUTE REVUE AND ARTHUR “SUGAR BEAR” AIKEN featuring the Grammy Award Winning “Didn’t I Blow Your Mind,” “La La Means I Love You,” plus much more, and lead singer of The Blue Notes, Arthur “Sugar Bear” Aiken.

Hear songs like “If You Don't Know Me By Now,” “The Love I Lost” & many more. Johnny Alston’s Motown Rock & Roll Revue will perform before and after the show in the Red Rose Ballroom.

OCTOBER 29 COVER TO COVER

The band performs in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds before and after the show

OCTOBER 30 RALPH ALLOCCO

& SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

NOVEMBER 5 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

A dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

NOVEMBER 6 RALPH ALLOCCO

& SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

NOVEMBER 12 COVER TO COVER

NOVEMBER 26 DESTINY

NOVEMBER 13 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

NOVEMBER 27 – DECEMBER 3 & 17 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

The band performs in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Ralph Allocco & Second Wind perform before and after the show

A dynamite crowd pleaser! Destiny perform before and after the show.

NOVEMBER 13 “LET’S HANG ON” – A TRIBUTE TO FRANKIE VALLIE AND THE FOUR SEASONS

Hear the hits from one of the 60’s top bands - The Four Seasons!

“Sherry,” “Ronnie,” “Walk Like a Man,” “Dawn,”“ Ragdoll,” “Let’s Hang On,” and many, many more. P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds open and close the show. This event benefits the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

NOVEMBER 19 BOBBY PALERMO

Bobby Palermo plays several instruments and has composed many songs that he sings in his show.

Plenty of laughs, impersonations, and music.

PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds also perform.

NOVEMBER 20 “A NIGHT OF LEGENDS” SHIRLEY ALSTON REEVES AND BOBBY HENDRICKS

Shirley Alston Reeves, former lead of the Shirelles and Bobby Hendricks, formerly of Bill Pickney’s Original Drifters perform, plus PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds with Ken Brady of the original Casinos before and after the show in a Supper Club Atmosphere in the Ballroom.

NOVEMBER 25 THANKSGIVING BUFFET

A big hit and a Red Rose tradition!!!

Fresh fruits, warm breads, roasted turkey, traditional dressing, seasoned prime rib, glazed ham, fresh fish, sweet potato casserole, mashed potatoes, pasta, omelet/waffle station, and an assortment of desserts, including chocolate fountains, are only a few of the many delighful dishes that will make your mouth water! Three seating times available.

Call to reserve your table soon.

Put on your dancing shoes as this band features adult contemporary music with tunes ranging from Jimmy Buffet to Ricky Martin.

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

DECEMBER 4 “SNOOPY’S CHRISTMAS” WITH THE ROYAL GUARDSMEN

The Royal Guardsmen are best remembered for their many epic hit songs from the late 1960s, including one about the “Peanuts” cartoon dog, Snoopy - the World War I flying ace “The Red Baron.”

DECEMBER 10 & 18 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

A dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

DECEMBER – EVERY SUNDAY BRUNCH WITH SANTA

Begin your holiday by joining us in the Red Rose Dining Room for a wonderful buffet with special delights to bring in the Christmas Spirit, including an opportunity to get your photo made with Santa Claus!

DECEMBER 25 CHRISTMAS BUFFET 3 seatings available!

SHOW RESERVATIONS Please call for ticket prices. Shows in the Red Rose Ballroom are in a supper club atmosphere with a four course meal (seats also available for the show only – for a lower price!)

NO COVER CHARGE for shows in the 5-Star Red Rose Dining Room with the purchase of dinner. Show Guests - inquire about our special room rates when staying overnight after a show!

TEL: 813.752.3141

I-4 Exit 21 • 2011 N. Wheeler St.• Plant City, FL 33563

WWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COM

Mrs. Evelyn Madonia - Owner/General Manager foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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business » business profile anytime fitness 2402 James L. Redman Parkway plant city, fl 813-567-1057 www.anytimefitness.com

Michelle Hawthorne joined the club four months ago and reports, “The gym sells itself.”

Timothy Murphy highly recommends the Anytime Fitness membership, through which he has lost 100 pounds during his 4-6 times weekly workouts.

Photo by Cheryl Johnston

Anytime Fitness Anytime Fitness is unique in the world of workout centers because convenience is key to its success. Members have secure access 24 hours a day, seven days a week and thus, no excuse.

Owners Se’a and Richard Ryan make a great team. Se’a, a lifelong athlete, practices health and healing through holistic and natural methods. Richard has extensive corporate sales management experience.

Together they have built a club with members’ needs in mind.

To anyone who’s serious about fitness, these members would say, “You can’t beat what this club offers – friendly service, professional advice, the finest equipment and the cleanest facilities in town.”

Enjoy the following success stories of four members who encourage you to try a week at Anytime Fitness.

Teresa Short is not a stranger to gyms, but believes she’s now found the best.

Homeschool mom and mountain biker, Short was instantly impressed during Founders’ Week, describing Richard and Se’a as “very professional. … It’s a really great experience here, even for those who are not gung ho about working out. I’ve found no other club to compare.”

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24/7 Secure Access to a Healthier You submitted By: Cheryl Johnston

Because she had, in her words, been burned by another gym, Short especially enjoyed Richard’s “no pressure approach.”

She recalls, “He was so willing to work with me, during the trial period and beyond, until I was certain this would be my new gym.”

Conner’s football and basketball teams, Murphy noticed his own endurance level increase. Now he participates in those sports with his boy. Conner has noticed, too. Today, if he sees a TV ad for fast food, he says, “Dad, you don’t need that anymore.”

The convenient hours are wonderful, too, and Short, who conditions sometimes with her daughter, says, “”The anytime option makes membership here a no brainer. All your excuses disappear.”

Murphy highly recommends Anytime Fitness and says, I have absolutely no regrets. I encourage everyone to give it a try.”

Timothy Murphy joined “to get back in shape” and adds, “The day they opened, I changed my life.”

For many, including Murphy, the time of day becomes a reason to avoid the gym.

“But,” he said, “the anytime availability eliminated my excuse.” Now five months later after 4-to-6 times weekly workouts, Murphy has lost 100 pounds.

After meeting with Richard to discuss options, Murphy knew what he needed “to commit and follow through.” First, he restocked the refrigerator and pantry with healthier choices. He’s been amazed to see both cholesterol and blood pressure numbers improve. Next he began to train.

As an assistant coach to his 9-year-old son

Nick and Shannon Collins describe their experience as members of Anytime Fitness as “very satisfying.”

They were attracted initially because of the cleanliness. After they met Richard and Se’a, it was a done deal.

Nick explained that the club’s owners were “never too busy to talk with us, answer questions, or give us tips.” Those conversations motivated Nick to lose 66 pounds since joining in late April.

He suggests prospective members follow through with their plan: “We knew what we should be doing. We cut back on fast food and I started taking healthy meals to work. We save enough to pay our memberships.”

Hawthorne’s job as a transportation supervisor in Lakeland can be stressful as she manages warehousing and product delivery issues. Since she has always been active, her goal was not weight loss, but simply toning.

After the initial free consultation with personal trainer Fred Jones, Hawthorne was committed.

Jones is a top-flight professional trainer who specializes in a 12-week weight loss transformation program, speed enhancement for sports, and disability rehabilitation. He helps clients develop a vision, plan, and a commitment to healthy living and a positive mindset.

Hawthorne compliments his professionalism and guidance: “Fred has been tremendous for me. Our weekly appointment has helped me to lose inches and now everything looks firmer.”

She also credits the club’s friendly staff and ultra clean conditions, saying, “They’re there for one thing – to help people feel better, become healthier, and look more fit and trim. Their encouragement keeps you motivated.”

Additionally, she said, “I’ve tried other clubs, but here folks are serious. The workout is not a social event. This one’s working for me.”

Why not see for yourself why “There’s no better time.” Hopefully, you’ve been inspired to pay the Ryans a visit soon at 2402 James L. Redman Parkway. To make an appointment, phone 813-567-1057 or visit www.anytimefitness.com to begin your healthy life change with Anytime Fitness.

GREAT SELECTION OF COLD HARDY PALMS!

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1204 N. Frontage Rd. Plant City 813-927-1288 Just west of Park Road along the north side of I-4 (exit 22) www.warrentreesales.com

T R E E S

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business » edward jones

When Investing, Don’t Stop at U.S. Border I

submitted By: edward jones

n less than two weeks, United Nations Day will be celebrated. It’s an occasion to highlight and reflect on the work of the United Nations, whose mission is to promote understanding and cooperation among the world’s countries.

Of course, in an era of instantaneous communications and speedy global travel, we are all connected much more closely than ever before. And that’s certainly true in the financial markets, too, because as an investor, you’ve got a world full of opportunities.

Many people, however, still think the U.S. totally dominates the investment scene.

But the fact is that U.S. stock markets make up less than half of the total global stock market value, according to the Census Bureau. And that should come as no surprise to you when you consider many of the products you use on a daily basis, from the Hyundai (South Korea) you drove to work to the Nestle Crunch bar (parent company in Switzerland) you snacked on at lunch to the Sony television ( Japan) you watch at night.

Not only are many strong companies based in the developed countries, but some emerging markets — countries such as China, India, Brazil and Mexico that are characterized by younger, less mature economies — are growing rapidly, which may produce good investment opportunities. Keep in mind, though, that emerging markets do involve investment risks different from those of more developed countries. Securities may be less liquid and more volatile because economic structures are generally less diverse and mature.

And by investing internationally, you can gain another key benefit — improved diversification. If you only invested domestically, and a downturn hits us, your portfolio will likely take a hit. But, at any

given time, international markets may perform quite differently than the U.S. market. Consequently, if you expanded your investment horizon beyond U.S. borders, your foreign investments could be doing relatively well, even if your American investments were lagging. Keep in mind, though, that diversification, by itself, cannot guarantee profits or protect against loss, though it may be able to help reduce the effects of volatility.

While you can gain some benefits by investing internationally, you’ll also need to consider the risks, such as political risk. For example, new governments can come in, nationalize companies, drastically change policies or rules affecting commerce, or take other actions that could have a big effect on your investments. You might also encounter currency risk — that is, changes in the value of the U.S. dollar, relative to foreign currencies, could negatively affect the value of your investments. Another factor to consider is the difference in accounting standards between the U.S. and other countries, a difference that can result in difficulty analyzing the true value and performance of foreign investments.

You can enhance your portfolio’s diversification without investing a lot abroad. If you are considering international investments you may want to limit the foreign exposure to no more than 20 to 25 percent of your overall portfolio, with the exact amount depending on your individual risk tolerance, time horizon and long-term goals. Also, given the more complex issues involved in international investing, you’ll want to consult with a professional financial advisor before taking action.

But once you’ve done your “due diligence,” don’t be afraid to launch your voyage to the world of international investing. You might like what you see on your journey.

Isn’t it beautiful?

Let’s keep it that way!

813-754-1212 116 W. Alsobrook Street Plant City, Fl 33563

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Let us help you get your home ready for the Holidays!!

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business » success

Ray and Patti Brownlee Seed and Brownlee Garden Center » How did you get into this business?

Ray: Patti and I both grew up in Plant City. I am a third generation citrus dealer.

With citrus not being what is used to be, we knew we had to expand our business into other areas. With Gro-Mor closing, we knew that would create an opportunity to fill a need.

» What are your aspirations?

Ray: good health and being able to fulfull our customers wants and needs for years to come.

Patti: I remember growing up with my grandad and dad having a drugstore downtown. Everyone knew each other and would come in and ask about their family.

I want our business to be more like that.

» What inspires you?

Over the 30 years of working, this is the first time customers have actually thanked us for being here for them.It makes for a good day. It isgreat to get up in the morning and like to go to work.

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» What are your greatest successes?

Ray: Being married to my best friend and having a loving and supportive family.

Being able to survive owning our own business for 30 years and being able to have the opportunity to go into this new venture.

Patti: Being married almost 40 years to the same person. Having 2 beautiful daughters, 2 great son-in-laws and 3 terrific grandchildren. The Lord has truly blessed us.

» What do you have planned for your future?

Ray: To be able to listen and understand God’s direction for family and business.

Patti: To get input from our customers on what they want. To be able to survive in the economy.

business » success

Animal Wellness Center Halloween Party Join us for our first Halloween Party!

Thursday, October 21, 2010 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Patricia Rogers par interiors I’ve have a bachelor’s degree in accounting and worked in that field for 25 years. I’ve also helped with decorating for friends and family. When I moved to Florida and married my present husband, I didn’t have to work, so at age 40, I returned to school to pursue a degree in design. In 1997, I started a Decorating Den franchise and operated that for five years. PAR Interiors was established in 2003 and in 2008 moved downtown to Collins Street. I love being part of the downtown area.

I also serve as a founding member for the Board of Directors of Charter School Associates for Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties. From three schools currently, we are hoping to grow to six, offering grades K-12, within the next two years.

My mother Faye Walker is my role model and a shining example of what I aspire to be. She has always been a hard worker and a woman of integrity. At age 32, she became Kentucky Fried Chicken’s first female manager ever. In that same year, she completed her law degree and gave birth to my younger brother. She was born during the Great Depression on a North Georgia farm and learned the hard way to work and do her best. She now lives in Plant City and comes to work in the showroom every day.

What drives me is the Golden Rule. I want to proved good service at a fair price to home and business owners. We offer selections from thousands of samples. Our prices are lower and of better quality than some of the larger retailers in the area.

I’m inspired by the smiles on happy customers’ faces when they see the changes in their spaces, whether we do a little or a lot. Our main goal is to work with what our customers have first. I say if a decorator walks in and says replace this and that, then the customer should start first by getting rid of the decorator. After all, this is your home, filled with your treasures.

Each Wednesday morning from 9 to 10 we host a non-denominational Bible study to which everyone is welcome. In April, Dinah Helton and I started our Heartstrings Boutique which features the new Miche’ handbags. We are the exclusive retailer in Plant City. Women never have to change purses - they just change the outside shell for a different look or color.

We also have handmade cards and fashion jewelry with lots of bling.

icture p y k o o sp Have a ith your pet taken w Tricks ‘n Treats for the 4-legged “kids” Costumes encouraged for all

Refr for th eshments e par ents Goodie ba gs for t he 2-legged kids rizes P r o o D Representatives from Hillsborough County Animal Services will be on-site with adoptable adopta table animals ta

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

Try our convenient Drop Off service!

3109 SR 574 West (813) 752-2869

Find us on Facebook! • www.animalwellnesspc.com Dr. Jennifer Conner

In the future, I would like to have Par Interiors grow the business in our downtown location and become more involved in the community awareness programs for our children, who are our future. In ten years, I hope to live parttime in Plant City and part-time in the Smoky Mountains.

What people may not know about me is that I was featured on HGTC Restore American in 2001 for a home built in the early 1900s. The owners and I restored it to its original charm and it has been included on the PC Arts Council Tour of Homes at Christmastime.

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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INCOME/INVESTMENT PROPERTY

MULTI-FAMILY ZONED

WALDEN LAKE EAST

Investment opportunity! Why rent when you can own!

Neat 3 bedroom/1 bath block home. Several rental/ investment properties are available. Call Cheryl McDaniel for more information, 813-758-1429. $52,000.

MLS #T2435784.

1 of 2 vacant lots available, zoned R-2 in city limits. $8,000 each. Call Cheryl McDaniel for details, 813-758-1429. MLS#T2435746, T2435689.

“Short Sale”. Pool home in great established neighborhood. Great room plan w/ cedar fireplace. Open kitchen, dinette and wet bar. Large lot w/private fenced yard, large under roof lanai and pool. Seller will be using title company to facilitate short sale. Nice 3 BR/2BA, 1589 s.f. in Walden Lake East community. $93,600. MLS #T2435549.

Call Maddie to see this home today! 813-382-8382

FLORIDA PARADISE

HISTORIC DISTRICT/COMMERCIAL

LAND, LAKE AND HOME!

CUTIE IN THE CITY

WALDEN LAKE POOL HOME

60 acres with 49 acres in dry uplands, with Grandfather Oaks, Orange groves, hay pasture. Create your own paradise ranch…

Or save it for future plans with 2.5 Acre per home zoning and over 4000 feet of road frontage. This is truly a special slice of Old Florida gorgeous. Call Maggie Beard, 813-299-7155. $967K. MLS #T2399075.

LAKE LOUISA RETREAT

18,784 square feet of historic gorgeous commercial building in downtown.

Hardwood floors, brick wall, infinite charm. Downstairs has modern AC. Ideal location for loft apartments or offices and studios. Lease or Purchase.

Call us with your creative ideas as to how you would like to make use of this building and we can discuss ways to make it work for you. Call Maggie Beard to see this property today, 813-299-7155. MLS #t2426002

Enjoy the sunrises and direct lake front living on beautiful Lake Louisa! With access to the chain of Lakes and over 100 feet of lake front, dock, and double boathouse with lifts, this house has all you need to enjoy the water. This recently remodeled (2000) home features a newer roof, septic, flooring and AC. New Hardee board siding means low maintenance for you. The back wall of windows gives you the perfect view! Or admire the lake view from your large screened lanai, then fish off your dock and enjoy boating on the ski-able lake. This large home features 4 bedrooms and 2 baths with an extra bonus room or bathroom. So much for $399,900. Call Jimmie Robinson 813-390-6441 or Malissa Crawford 813-967-0168 to see this WOW retreat. MLS #T2423081.

SHORT SALE Bargain! Why rent when you can buy? This recently updated home is cute as a button and move-in ready. 2 BR/1 BA just needs you! Call Malissa to see this home today! Short Sale Assistance Center is ready to expedite the process. $49,900. MLS #T2435023.

RETRO CHARM

STUNNING WATERFRONT HOME

Come home to this 1950’s block home in the Historic District of Plant City. Home sits on a corner lot and has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, fireplace, newly updated kitchen and 2 car garage. Near downtown, parks, library and schools. Great neighborhood with no homeowners association dues. This home has 1986 s.f. of true Florida living space. Ready for new owners! Call Jimmie Robinson, 813-390-6441. $159,900.

MLS #T2424395

New listing on the lake! This home is as fabulous as the view over Lake Hammock! It has been completely remodeled with new wood and tile floors, granite counter tops in kitchen, bathrooms, and wet bar area, plus new fi xtures. The leaded front door will catch your eye immediately, and the cathedral ceilings will draw you into the foyer, which opens to the great room with wood burning fireplace, and a magnificent view of the lake. The gourmet kitchen adjoins the great room, dining room, and music room - a true open plan, so when guests arrive, no one is isolated! 4 BR/3 BA with 3281 s.f. The pool area has a spa and wet bar to enjoy while the steaks are grilling. You have to see this home! Call Jimmie today, 813-390-6441. MLS #T2438870

22 Acres with your own spring fed 8 acre lake! Gorgeous 3BR 3BA pool home AND a 2BR caretaker residence. You can have signage that can be seen from I-75, making this property ideal for church, campground, sports club, veterinarian practice, boarding kennel Only $798K. Call Maggie for more details, 813-299-7155. MLS #T2384466

Sparkling and better than new! Once you’ve seen this immaculate home there will be no need to look further! This beautifully maintained and updated home boasts volume ceilings, wood burning fireplace, large bedrooms and tons of storage. The pool is new, added in 2006, and double pane windows were added in 2005. All this on a meticulously landscaped corner lot. This spotless home is light, bright, and move-in ready. You won’t be disappointed! 4 BR/2 BA, 2361 s.f. and priced at $199,000. Call Malissa for more details, 813-967-0168. MLS #T2438212

BUILT WITH HISTORIC CHARM

Beautiful home in Plant City’s Historic District including brick street, sidewalk, and landscaped yard. Home was built in 2005 and has all the conveniences of an energy efficient home, and built to conform to the neighborhood. The home has a balcony off the master bedroom suite, granite countertops in the kitchen, and a mother-in-law apartment in the back for extra income. Home is located within walking distance of downtown Historic District with shops, restaurants, and weekend activities. 4 BR/3.5 BA with 2576 s.f. make this a great family home for the value. Call Jimmie Robinson, 813-390-6441. MLS #T2423487.

Call us for your Residential and Commercial Real Estate needs

1513 Jim Redman Parkway, Plant City

813-754-3586

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www.floridamoves.com/plantcity

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

813.707.6200 ity ust say Plant C m I f; el ys m l Estate Working in Rea P NOTCH. Mortgage is TO . well over a year r fo s u h it w gage worked ct Plant City Mort find “The Perfe to s u k o to it long e for us at Yes; that’s how Team were ther is h d an is av D ceive an House”. Nate ll Monday to re ti t ai w to g in no hav elp all times (YES, ays willing to h w al d an es ns mely respo dgeable answer) with ti tremely knowle ex e ar ey h T . could your in anything they explain things in ey th d an ea ar left in the mortgage ce you are not ffi o r ei th e av you le as language. When sign or what w t s ju I d di d rl in the wo e you can wondering what things to wher n ai pl ex l il w t, they ill he talking abou anyone. You w to em th d en m m ould reco understand. I w ves. e them your sel s u u yo il nt u never know

Nate Davis

Natasha Davis

President- Loan Officer

Vice President- Office Manager

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Carol Barton

Processor

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& Family - Amire Pedraza Jaida & Paitlyn Davis Office Assistants

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Loan Officer

Barbara Hall Loan Officer

Jenifer Bishop Loan Officer

Rick Norman Loan Officer

Don Scarmuzzi Loan Officer

• FHA • Conventional Financing • USDA • Low down payment 5% Down 100% financing 30 year fixed rate Guaranteed Best Rates Available No Down Payment Perfect credit not required No Monthly Mortgage Insurance Seller can pay closing cost • 1st Time Home Buyers tax credit 30 year fixed rate May finance closing costs

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WWW.PLANTCITYMORTGAGES.COM foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

69

By Linda

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real estate » walden lake

Walden Lake T

he Walden Lake Community Association Board Meetings are the third Monday of each month.

The next meeting will be October 18th at 6:00 PM at the Walden Lake HOA office building on Griffin Boulevard. The meeting is open to all residents interested in attending.

At the last meeting, there was discussion about the directional signs within the community and if they were still needed as many are looking worn and have been a target for graffiti. The board discussed and agreed that the signs were no longer necessary as most people traveling through Walden Lake are looking for a specific address rather than a neighborhood.

As things happen within Walden Lake, alerts go out to the Presidents of the neighborhoods. It is important that you provide your email address to your local HOA so that they can forward the alert to you.

Like all HOAs during this economic time, our HOA is suffering from a larger than ever receivables. The current receivables are approximately $100,000. That is a staggering figure for a small association like ours. As a result, the dues for 2011 will be increasing. We did not have an increase in 2010 and the Board is unhappy to have to increase the dues given the economic times. We live in a beautiful community with wonderful amenities and extremely low HOA dues.

There was a Presidents meeting on September 28th. Police Chief McDaniel was there to give a crime update. Most of the incidents in Walden Lake have to do with auto burglaries. He said that many of these burglaries were due to cars being left unlocked and they had lots of good stuff in the open, making it very easy for the thieves. He recommends that you don’t leave your keys to the car on the floorboard, visor or even hidden anywhere in the car. Let’s help the police out and not make so easy for these thieves!

The chief mentioned that parking on the street is a safety issue and can impede emergency vehicles. He recommends that you don’t park on the street and when you have company, park as many cars in your driveway as possible, leaving the streets clear. The chief wants the residents to call

Review submitted By: natalie sweet

the police any time you see something that makes you uncomfortable. Please don’t try to resolve the situation yourself. Call the police department at 757-9200. They are there to help and he tells us, and that you can’t call the police department too much.

APARTMENTS FOR THE ELDERLY

One bedroom Apartments • Rent based on income

The chief said all solicitors should have a permit issued by the city and signed by the police chief. If someone comes to your door, be sure to ask to see their permit. If they don’t have one, give the station a call.

There will be an Open House for the Office/Community Center and Maintenance Building along with the Kids & Canine Howl-O-Ween Party on Saturday, October 23rd. The party will be held in the area of the Dog Park and is open for all Walden Lake dogs and children from 10AM to Noon. There will be goodie bags and prizes for best costumes. The Open House will be from 10AM to 1PM and refreshments will be served.

Plant City Towers Plant City Living Center 103 W. Mahoney St. Plant City, FL 33563 813.752.5116

405 E. Damon St Plant City, FL 33563 813.659.2669

Applications available at each location

Art in the Park, hosted by the Art Guild, will be held on November 6th from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Walden Lake Park. Parking is limited and residents are encouraged to walk or bicycle to the park if possible.

The Dog Park renewals are due the end of the year for 2011. The fee for one year is $25 for one dog, and $40 for two dogs.

Be sure to renew your membership so you will get the new key as the locks will be changed in January.

The WLCA Board is still working on the HOA documents to present to the Presidents of the neighborhood communities. Much thought is going into standardizing these documents and it is taking longer than originally planned.

Walden Lake Golf & Country Club is now booking golf tournaments and holiday parties for the upcoming season. I know firsthand why booking early is important.

I recently booked our annual tournament to benefit the Relay for Life and many of the dates were not available. Call 7521171, extension 222 and speak to Tracey to schedule. Friday nights at the Club is Happy Hour from 6-9 and drinks are 2 for 1.

Talk to me about Allstate Power Sports Insurance.

I can help protect your recreational vehicles. Plus, the more you protect, the more you can save-with multi-policy discounts. Call me and I can help you find the discounts you may qualify for.

RALPH L. FEOLA, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF (813) 752 2556 1003 S COLLINS ST PLANT CITY a026519@allstate.com Availability varies by product type and is subject to availability and qualifications. Discount amount may vary by state.Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Allstate Indemnity Company: Northbrook, Illinois © 2009 Allstate Insurance Company.

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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real estate » mortgage

YOU BELONG New Lower Rates JOIN TODAY!

Oktoberfest Open House Oct 23, 11am-1pm Enjoy food, games and activities at our annual YMCA Oktoberfest!

Y membership is now more affordable than ever.

Introducing Plant City Select – a customized membership option with access to all the amenities and services the Plant City Y has to offer at greatly reduced monthly fees.

Did you hear about the house that sold down the for next to nothing? street Y submitted By: nate davis

Save BIG with Plant City Select!

• Family memberships from $69 a month.

• Adult memberships (ages 30-61) are $41 a month.

• Young adult memberships (age 20-29) are $35 a month.

• Senior adult memberships (age 62+) are $35 a month.

• Senior couple memberships (age 62+) are $60 a month.

Visit www.tampaymca.org/plantcityselect for more info.

Mention you saw this ad in Focus Magazine and we’ll waive your join fee.

When you join the Y, you’re coming together with men, women and children from your community who are committed to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

Plant City Family YMCA

1507 YMCA Pl., Plant City, FL 33563 • (813) 757-6677 • www.tampaymca.org

ou should be concerned about these sales in your area if you have an immediate need to sell or refinance.

Let me say that again, YOU SHOULD BE CONCERNED about these sales in your area if you are considering a refinance or to sell in the near future. The reason you should be concerned may surprise you.

If you have owned your home for at least 12 months and want or need to refinance then the value of your home will be determined by an appraisal. An appraisal MUST consider RECENT home sales in the IMMEDIATE area. So if a home sells for a low price in your area, guess what happens to your appraisal? You got it, it goes down.

» Do foreclosures and short sales count?

Find More Stories @

Absolutely...Before, these sales were typically excluded from calculating the value of your home since they were considered an “outlier” or not a typically sale. In this new real estate environment, these sales are the standard and are used when determining a home’s value.

Here is the problem IF you need to refinance your home. As your value (appraisal) decreases, the loan amount you carry becomes a greater percentage of

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the value. This is commonly referred to as Loan to Value (LTV). A high LTV loan is riskier and thus more expensive (higher interest rate) than a low LTV loan. Home prices are continuing to fall and this is why I say, if you are considering a refinance on your home, you should do it yesterday.

Again, this is not some sales pitch, I will explain.….

Delaying a refinance when home prices are dropping can AND often do result in one of the following: 1. You carry a higher rate than you need to if you acted sooner (before those low sales hit your appraisal) 2. You previously had a 70% LTV (ex.

100,000 value with a 70,000 loan), but now your value has dropped and your LTV is at 82% (85,000 value with a 70,000 loan). Anytime your LTV is greater than 80%, you carry mortgage insurance with your mortgage. There are ways around this, but sometimes it is a must.

3. You are no longer eligible for a refinance since you no longer have equity in your home at all.

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

Team Wainoris ...Selling Hillsborough and Polk Multi-Million Dollar Producers

sellmyhome@tampabay.rr.com | www.teamwainoris.com

Randall Wainoris 813-997-3000 REALTOR®/Attorney at Law

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Has your dream home become a nightmare over this Halloween season? Did you place a large down payment on your home only to watch all of your home equity disappear into thin air over the last few years? Do you need to sell your home, but were afraid that you can’t because all of your equity is gone?

You are not alone! Don’t be scared! Call us here at Team Wainoris; we have helped many people just like you!

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BETTER THAN NEW, HAINES CITY CUTIE Great 3 bedroom, 2 bath home on wonderful street. Large family room opens to large back yard. Don’t miss this great opportunity. Short sale. Asking just $62,000.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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real estate » jo-ann lusk

$20,000 or $8,000?

D

submitted By: jo-ann lusk

id you miss out on the $8000 or $6500 tax credit? If you did, do you realize that waiting and missing the credit can now work in your favor? Here’s how…

Last year, during the time when you could qualify for the tax credit, interest rates were averaging 5.5% on a 30-year fixed loan.

Let’s say you qualify for a loan amount of $250,000. Today, that 30-year fixed loan of $250,000 has an average interest rate of 4.5% - 1 percent lower.

That means you can save approximately $2500 per year in interest by taking advantage of lower rates today. Today’s homeowner lives in the home for an average of 8 years…that is a potential savings in interest of $20,000. Big difference, huh? That alone makes it a great reason to buy now while rates are at historic lows (this too shall pass). With average home prices in the Plant City area at or below $225,000, you can buy a lot of home for the money today.

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September was another month of recovering stability in the Plant City real estate market.

Multiple Listing date reveals the following in the month of September: 254 Active listings (3-4 bedrooms/2-3 baths) 38 Pended (under contract) between September 1 and September 30 27 Sold between September 1 and September 30 The average Sold price was $166,300 versus the average List price of $175,000 took on average 144 days to sell.

Ask a Realtor how you can take part in what is still the greatest investment Americans can make, buying a home.

Realtors live and work in their community and have the most current market data and want to help.

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This beautiful 1940’s bungalow has been completely remodeled with modern amenities. Classic brick paver circle drive w/lush landscaping sets the tone. Home features timeless hardwood floors, faux fireplace, modern kitchen & master bath, fenced back yard w/brick paved path & Pergola. $155,000

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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Hometown Attorneys Working For You Personal Injury

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www.byrd-law.com The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based upon advertisements. Before choosing a lawyer ask for written information about the lawyer’s legal qualifications and experience.

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sports » football Nick Rodriguez?

He’s a kid that came in at quarterback against Newsome and had a stellar game.

He is also a receiver. He’s a kid that we need on the field.

Dazmond Patterson?

He’s one of the smartest kids football-wise.

He really understands the game. He had a phenomenal game against Newsome…

220 all purpose yards. It’s tough to guard someone like him who can run, catch, and throw it.

Jared Henderson?

He’s done a very good job. He’s one of those unsung guys. You don’t hear much about him but he is consistent. He stepped up and had 13 tackles last week.

Raiders’ Head Coach Wayne Ward Photo by Joe Bowles

Interview with Wayne Ward Plant City High School’s Head Football Coach

There’s another guy on defense that we haven’t mentioned, Sam Greene. He’s our strong safety. It’s been a long time since I’ve seen a strong safety run downhill like he does. He’s off the radar this year but he won’t be next year.

Congratulations on being named head coach. Tell me little about yourself.

How would you classify your team this year? Art Knight?

What do you see for the future?

Honestly, it’s a mix of everything. We can run the ball with Dazmond Patterson.

We can throw the football with Benny Coney. And our defense is getting better.

I can honestly say that we are becoming a complete team.

Like I told our athletic director, I want to retire here. The bottom line is this. When you look at all the successful programs in our area, one thing they all have in common is stability. I want to be here for a while. I want these kids to know that I’ll be here… not only through their high school years, but through college and beyond.

written By: Joe Bowles

I was born and raised here in Plant City.

I went to Plant City High School and graduated in 1997. From here I went to Virginia Tech and played from 1997 – 2002 in their glory years. When I finished school, I came back home, and I’ve been coaching here ever since.

How is this year looking?

I believe that we are better than our record (3 – 2). We are just a couple of plays from being undefeated. The bottom line is we lost to two pretty good football teams.

We lost a nail-biter in district against Newsome by a field goal. Our kids are real close to bringing it all together. We believe that we’re going to make the playoffs.

Tell me about the following players? Jordan Prestwood?

He’s an animal. My gosh… people don’t realize how good the kid is. He’s big and strong and when that helmet goes on, that kid is a player.

He’s a machine. He gets after it from sideline to sideline. He’s as tough as nails.

Not taking anything away from any other player, but Art is out best defensive player by far.

Benny Coney?

He is electric. He is a player that can throw the ball anywhere on the field. If they blitz him, he can tuck it under and run right past them for 60 yards. He got noticed this summer and schools are interested in him.

How involved are you in trying to get your players into college?

I am heavily involved in the recruiting process with the kids. Of course, certain colleges want to see certain players. So, we have to find a way to get these kids out so schools can see them.

Plant City High School Raiders 2010 Football Team Photo by Stephanie Humphrey

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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sports » athlete of the month

written & photo By: Joe Bowles

Jared Henderson F

or Plant City High School’s Jared Henderson, playing football professionally would be the ultimate experience, but he has an alternate plan that he’ll put in place when he retires from professional football or if he decides hang it up after college.

Ward was referring to Henderson’s performance against district foe Newsome when Henderson had to take up the slack in the absence of fellow linebacker Art Knight, an all-conference selection last season who missed the game with an ankle injury.

“I’ve wanted to play football all my life, but if that doesn’t work out, I would like to go into criminal justice. My main goal would be to work for the FBI,” said Jared.

Jared, the son of Brian Henderson, Stacy Spivey, stepfather Stephen Spivey, and the brother of Brittany Henderson (21), Chelsea Henderson (19), Kayla Spivey (17) and Aaron Spivey (15) is a member of the National Honor Society sporting a 3.0 GPA (4.0 weighted). He plans to go to college but presently he’s uncommitted.

Henderson has lived in the Plant City area all of his life. He started his football career at the age of seven playing for the Antioch Redskins though their youth football program as a running back and linebacker.

In high school, Henderson played on the defensive line. At 5’10” and 185 lbs., he was a little undersized as a lineman going up against bigger opponents each week, but what he lacked in size he made up for it in toughness. Last season against eventual state champion Plant High School, Henderson broke through the line, forced and recovered a fumble that led to a Raider score on the next play.

A move early in this season, immediately following the Raiders preseason loss to Tampa Bay Tech, has proved valuable for the Raiders defense, as well as, Henderson’s future. The coaching staff switched him to linebacker and Jared has excelled ever since. His speed and toughness has translated into helping the Raiders’ defense to improve throughout the first five games of the season.

“He’s done a very good job. He’s one of those unsung guys. You don’t hear much about him but he is consistent. He stepped up and had 13 tackles last week,” reported Wayne Ward, the Raiders head coach.

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“Right now, we’re working on my highlight film… getting ready to send it off to different colleges,” said Henderson.

“I don’t really have a favorite school… I just want to play football. I want to go to college, get my education, play football and then get on with my career in criminal justice.”

Jared draws his motivation from his faith and from the goals he has set for himself, “I’m a very motivated person and I’m a really hard worker. I believe that every person is responsible for his own life.

I know that God has a plan for everybody, but he gives us choices and situations to help us to take control of our life and live it to the fullest. It’s up to us to make the most of it.”

For Henderson, the move to linebacker may have been one of those situations that he spoke about. It looks like that Jared is taking control and is already on course “to make the most of it.”

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We love you and Lisa, and thank God for your leadership, your faithfulness and your love!

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ALL AVAILABLE THROUGH THE CENTER 303 North Alexander Street, Call 813-719-7705 for appts/consultations foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

81

sports » Baseball team of the month

2418 James L. Redman Pkwy., Plant City, FL (813) 757-0300 written By: Joe Bowles | photo courtesy of: Plant City Little League

“

These boys had a great attitude. They never got too high or too low.

”

Section IV competition pitted four district champions against one another in a round robin affair. In round one, Plant City prevailed against District 13 representative Bloomingdale American by a score of 8-2.

Rounds two and three were played on Saturday, July 17. Plant City beat District 26 champion Manatee East 16-3 in the morning contest.

Plant City Maroon Distict 4 Champions and Section 4 Runner-up: (L to R)Jonny Ontiveros, Christian Laird, Andrew Long, Coach T.J. Messick. Tate Whatkey Jr., J.J. Gonzalez, C.J. Kirkland, T.J. Gayner, Ben Pues, Cody Ginther, Manager Tate Whatley, Parker Messick, Coach Casey Christian, Bryar Christian.

plant city W hen asked to comment about his 9-10 year-old all-star team, Manager Tate Whatley didn’t hesitate to say, “As a team, we could hit the ball.”

No one would dare to argue with Whatley, because the proof was on the scoreboard every game. The Plant City Little League Maroon 9-10 year-old all-star team outscored their opponents by an average of 20-4 over eight games in district and sectional play due to their strength at the plate “I don’t like to single out any individuals,” Whatley reasoned, “because we really

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9-10 Year-Old All-Star Team

played as a team.” Indeed they did. Every player contributed to a string of victories that fell just one game short of reaching the state tournament.

District IV’s Little League all-star tournament began June 25 in Auburndale as the Plant City Maroon team spanked the all-star team from Bartow 36-1. The Plant City team moved to the second round of play that ended with a 17-4 drubbing of Lake Wales in an afternoon affair. The following day, the Maroon team duplicated the score of their previous game with another 17-4 victory against Lakeland City Tangerine. This enabled the Maroon team to advance to the semifinal round in the winner’s bracket. Plant City

Maroon prevailed against Plant City White by a score of 18-4.

That victory allowed the Maroon team to sit back and wait to see which team would emerge from the loser’s bracket to be their opponent in the championship game.

Lakeland City Tangerine claimed victories against Auburndale 16-1 on June 30, and Haines City 6-3 on July 2 earning a spot in the championship game against Plant City on July 5, following a two-day delay due to Independence Day. On Monday, July 5, Plant City Maroon took an early lead that they never relinquished and became District IV champions with a 10-4 win against Lakeland City Tangerine, qualifying them to be the district representative in the Section IV tournament held at Bloomingdale Park beginning July 16.

With identical 2-0 records, Plant City went up against District 25 victor Land O’ Lakes in the afternoon and lost a heartbreaker by a score of 8-4. Plant City’s only loss in eight games gave Land O’ Lakes the title and a trip to the state tournament.

“In sectionals we played well, we had only one bad inning in which Land O’ Lakes strung together six hits in a row,” said Whatley, “that was the difference in the game and the tournament. Other than that one inning, we felt that we played extremely well.”

No one could argue with that. They won seven of eight games, averaged twenty runs per game, complied a team batting average was .466, and had 17 extra base hits.

‘To be truthful, I felt that overall we had a great team. We had strong pitching, we were defensively sound, and we hit the ball well. In fact, we rarely struck out. The thing that stands out about this team was their attitude. These boys had a great attitude.

They never got too high or too low.”

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

83

sports » fitness

fitness matters Expert answers to your health and wellness questions submitted By: Se’a Ryan » Question:

The fitness magazines always seem to focus on recovering nutritionally after a workout.

This makes sense, so what should I be taking-in to optimally recover?

» Answer:

You’re right—there is a big focus on recovery these days, and for good reason. If you think about it logically, the preparation for your next workout begins right after you finish-up your current workout.

Within 45 minutes of finishing a session, your cells are primed for nutrients, so replenishing fluids, carbohydrate, and protein (specifically amino acids) is ideal.

The water will obviously help you to rehydrate, the carbohydrate will replenish your glycogen (or stored sugar), and the protein will reduce muscle breakdown and start the process of repair. This tight post-workout timeframe is often called the “window of opportunity.” Consuming a recovery beverage during this period seems like the most reasonable option, especially since hunger is often blunted after a workout. There are a number of different recovery products on the market, but things like chocolate milk or even a homemade smoothie with fruit and protein powder would work well too.

The ideal post-workout ratio is 2-4:1 carbohydrate to protein, and since you won’t have trouble finding products that meet this recommendation, the product you choose really comes down to taste and price. Happy shopping!

» Question:

I’m a die-hard runner, but I spoke with a trainer recently, and she said I should try to incorporate more cross training. It sounds like a good idea, but are there any specific guidelines that I should follow?

» Answer:

Cross training is a great idea! You can benefit significantly by engaging in activities that are outside of your comfort zone. You’ll be able to condition the entire body, add more flexibility to your workouts, and suffer fewer (or completely avoid) overuse injuries. Plus, it just makes working out more fun, because you’re always doing something new and challenging. There really aren’t any specific guidelines to follow. Just find a couple different things you like to do, and then rotate them consistently at varying intensity levels. There is one important thing to keep in mind, however. When you start incorporating some of these alternative activities, you may find the workouts to be a bit more challenging than you were anticipating. Let’s face it—you’re conditioned to run, so it may take some time to adapt to these new training stimuli.

These adaptations represent the changes your body is making to get bigger, faster, and stronger, and that is definitely a good thing!

Se’a Ryan has been dedicated to fitness her entire life focused on encouraging people to take charge of their own health. To submit a question, contact Se’a at seameditate@verizon.net .

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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extra » senior of the month

Regan Knotts senior of the month

Written By: Brooke Allie

Rickey Kim senior of the month

Written By: Brooke Allie

service is a great way for me to reach out and give back to those who are less fortunate in my community.”

This month Regan has also been working on seat belt safety through Junior Civitan International, where she is the Lt. Governor for Hillsborough County and Public Relations Chair of Plant City High School. She has been involved with Civinettes all four years of high school and loves this service club. Regan is involved in many clubs at her school, proving her capability of being a leader.

These clubs range from FFA (Future Farmers of America) to FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) and Life is Good.

This driven senior actually established Life egan Knotts is a powerful and is Good club Plant City High School, a dedicated leader around Plant club where kids who consider their lives City High School as well as in the to be good and want to make life good community. She strives to set herself for others. Regan commented that Life is apart from ordinary high school seniors Good became popular “unexpectedly” but by raising the bar for what can be done, realized that, “Life is Good is an easily instead of just doing what is required. relatable club and it was simple for the kids to identify and get excited about an This past month, Regan has been swamped organization with such a good spirit.” As with various tasks but nothing has seemed founder and President, Regan has taken to faze her. This summer, she was chosen the initiative of conducting a canned food to participate in the Buccaneers Student drive for Haiti, collecting clothes for local Advisory Board which is an organization school clothes closets and making cards partnered with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for those who need a little something to and the Glazer Family Foundation where brighten their day. students are involved with community service projects in the Tampa Bay Area, Regan has also received many awards attend Bucs games to promote spirit, and and recognitions for her hard work promote team spirit within their high over the years. She has lettered in both school. This board has kept her busy with swimming in softball, two sports she loves promoting “Vision Mobile”, a project to compete in. Also she has attended the providing tests for vision problems in Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership Seminar children and getting the word out about (HOBY), the Young Leaders Conference the new Glazer Children’s Museum in at the University of Florida, the Tampa downtown Tampa. Also this summer Bay Youth Leaders Symposium at Moffitt Regan attended S4TL (Seminar for Research Center, a messenger at the Tomorrows leaders) sponsored by the Florida House of Representatives for Rep. Plant City Rotary Club. She recently Rich Glorioso in Tallahassee, and is a attended a Rotary Club meeting to inform member of the National Honors Society. and thank them for “an opportunity of a This month Regan also was awarded Miss lifetime.”

August in the Plant City High School Calendar Girl competition.

Beyond just those activities Regan has been involved in her community through In the future Regan Knotts hopes to numerous activities like: community attend Auburn University and major in outreach through her church, First Public Relations. She hopes to one day Baptist of Plant City, various drug walks, have a career with a professional sports annually participating in Relay for Life, team, managing either their public the Big Brothers/ Big Sisters mentoring relations or community relations. Keeping program and many more. Regan said the up a good reputation for a professional community service is a big part of her sports team should come easy to someone life because “ I have been raised in a good who has made such a great name for home with a great family so community herself.

service club, “Preserving our community” and says, “I appreciate everything that has been done for me and I realized it was time to return the favor.” This club is the “Son of Rotary” and holds close ties to the organization. Interact attends weekly luncheons with the Rotary to update and inform them of what is occurring in their club. Rickey said Interact is lucky to have an organization so closely tied to it. Together with Rotary, Interact Club raises money each year for Polio and Rickey is excited to be a part of this foundation. He plans to also start a clothes drive for Wilson Elementary within Plant City High School. He certainly is “returning the favor.”

R

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He also holds leadership within other organizations nlike the typical high school student, at PCHS such as: Historian of Senior senior Rickey Kim spent most of Executive Council, Historian of Amnesty his time at school this summer.

International, Photo Editor of Yearbook, No, he wasn’t there for summer school.

Secretary of Environmental Club and a This ambitious senior gave up part of member of Student Council. All of these his summer to do volunteer work at the commitments prove to be demanding but school. The countless hours he logged in he does not seem at all worried about his the office at PCHS were spent showing time management. Serving as a leader students how to register for the SAT or around school, kids can find Rickey ACT, answering the phones, which Rickey in a number of places. When involved said “were ringing non-stop”, and many in student council you can catch him other tasks which people fail to realize planning activities and organizing events. occur at school over the summer.

He loves being a leader and is ecstatic to be a part of Senior Homecoming This philanthropic senior spends most of Court this year. Overall, Rickey is slowly his time year-round also helping out in the changing the mold of leaders in his school. community. He has volunteered mentoring youth at the Bruton Memorial Library, an Rickey is ranked within the top 25% of experience Rickey remarked was ”So much his class and loves the challenge of AP fun and a great way to see new faces in courses. He is as dedicated to his school the community.” He also assisted teachers work as his is his extracurricular activities this summer while they were preparing to and knows that diligent work spawns school to restart, participates in Relay for positive outcome. In the future he hopes Life and coastal cleanups. In between this to attend a Florida university, major in generosity Rickey works at Hole n’ One radiology, and pursue a doctorate in this Donuts, a donut shop in town which his area of specialty. family owns.

U

President of Interact Club at PCHS, Rickey created the a motto for this

Tea Party

Randy with Paul Murray, a veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Polk Co Commissioner Randy Wilkinson installed all privately funded monument with our founding Documents, founder's quotes, Mayflower Compact, and the Ten Commandments in the county administration building

• Who gave us the Recession? Democrats and Republicans • Who gave us the bailout? Democrats and Republicans • Who gave us the health-care mess? Democrats and Republicans • Who gave us the endless wars? Democrats and Repubicans "Randy will cut taxes. As Polk County Commissioner, Randy led Polk to a 30% property tax rate cut (2 mils) - Lowest tax rate in region (Tpa Bay Business Journal).”

"Randy will help private sector create jobs.

Randy led in 2000+ new jobs for next 2 years - USF Polytech & Legoland.”

Experience

• Polk County Commission School Board • School Board Member • Liaison to Virginia Legislature in D.C. for Southern Baptist Convention.

Randy (shown with 2 daughters) paved the way for Legoland Florida.

Randy with his parents & 2 daughters.

ElectRandy.com

,TEA

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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extra » al reuchel

“

I know some folks think ADA is crazy law gone bad because it makes what seem to us to be unreasonable demands of businesses. maneuvering, but demanding, yes, demanded that persons with handicaps or disabilities be provided with respect.

It requires these individuals be treated as equal citizens and not berated or made to feel less than human for a condition over which they have no control.

Let me relate a personal story without betraying a confidence. My daughter and her husband took a disabled person in a wheel chair to a little shop not far from Gainesville. This is a wonderful woman who is not only handicapped as a result of a horrible traffic accident but must now deal with a fatal disease. They entered this little store because my daughter enjoys the items they sell and has loved shopping there since her days as a student at UF. They brought their wheel chaired friend with them and were enjoying themselves when by accident the woman hit reverse on her wheel chair and it rolled into a very small Christmas tree display. Three small ornaments fell off the tree and broke.

Treating them with dignity!

Written By: Al Reuchel

All too often we hear stories in the news about people with disabilities and handicaps taking on the establishment.

It’s usually about things folks without handicaps take for granted like bathrooms too small and the absence of entrance ramps. We’ve even seen occasions when disabled use the Americans with Disabilities act like a battering ram which can end up costing business thousands of dollars to modified buildings or even force some of them out of business altogether.

businesses. For example, on Clearwater beach the city was being asked to add an elevator to the second story of the life guard station to accommodate those with disabilities. It was going to cost the city hundreds of thousands of dollars for the accommodation. So, would the city hire a handicapped person to be a lifeguard in the first place? How is a person in a wheel chair who can’t make it up a flight of stairs going to rescue a troubled swimmer?

Does that make a lot of sense?

I know some folks think ADA is crazy law gone bad because it makes what seem to us to be unreasonable demands of

Now let me change the focus. I think the greatest benefit from the ADA is not providing job access or ease of

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My daughter’s friend was heart sick and embarrassed to say the least.

One of the girls behind the counter came over to help clean up the broken ornaments and said not to worry. She said the ornaments were not that expensive and not to worry though my daughter did offer to pay for them.

Enter the shops owner. If looks good kill this person was sending darts into my daughters heart by sneering with great disgust at her wheel chair friend. She wrapped the broken pieces in a bag all the while muttering and talking under her breath. It was obvious to my daughter she was looking directly at her friend in the wheel chair who, by now, was so humiliated not only by her accident but by the cancerous scares that are unfortunately taking their toll on her.

”

student who doesn’t have much money.

It’s obvious the disabled woman isn’t wealthy. And yes, the shop owner probably does have a policy if you touch it and it breaks you are responsible for the item.

So why didn’t she just say that instead of snapping and snitting away in such a cruel fashion?

My daughter didn’t break into tears because of the way she was treated but rather the way the owner treated the woman in the wheel chair. It was demeaning. It was directed disgust. It was saying with her eyes and her voice....”you idiot, you clumsy oaf, you come into my story in that oversized go-cart and run over my Christmas ornaments and I have to put up with you!!!”

Maybe I am exaggerating. I wasn’t there.

But if my daughter says it was the most horrible moment she can ever remember for a dear dying friend with a disability it must have been just that and more.

She paid the bill and left as quickly as possible and says she will never return to that store in that quaint town that she and our family have become so found of. I could have mentioned the store and the owner in this article but I won’t. It’s not fair to punish people for the actions of one very ill-informed, grouch who can’t see beyond her own profit margin into the heart of a disabled person who came only to enjoy the company of friends in an environment made all the more challenging by a disability she neither created nor is responsible for.

Now, I know the ADA doesn’t have provisions to protect against accidents like this one. But can you see why it was passed in the first place? It’s not about the inconvenience or pain making isles a bit wider, protecting delicate displays, putting There was not an ounce of compassion or in ramps and restrooms and railings, and understanding from this shop owner to on and on. It’s a necessity made all the this person with an obvious affliction. move obvious when we see shop owners Sneering down at the woman said told me treating these folks like dogs or bulls let daughter that would be $45-dollars. Never lose in a china shop rather than human mind the sales person said not to worry beings disparately seeking to be treated about it. with dignity, respect and understanding. Is that asking too much?

Sure, I could argue my daughter is a

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Hillsborough Community College is an equal access/equal opportunity employer that makes employment and educationrelated decisions without regard to race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status or any other bias that is or may be prohibited by law. In addition, the college does not discriminate in employment practices or in the admission and treatment of students. HCC is committed to equitable treatment for all students and employees and to a learning and working environment free of discrimination and harassment for current as well as future students and employees. The college provides equal educational opportunities for qualified individuals with disabilities and complies with, as well as supports, the Americans with Disabilities Act.

extra » derek maul

Let’s Stop Throwing Rocks

at the Teachers

I don’t write much about my former career, but I’m still very much involved in education. I teach all the time, and have many friends who make their living in the classroom.

I

’ve been talking with teachers, and what I’m hearing troubles me. It’s early in the year, but cynicism and a sense of unreasonable burden is already taking its toll.

The problem is the politics, the way politics are applied, the school board, and the huge gap between what people think they know about education and the reality of great teachers doing great work. $100 Million: The work of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is a magnificent testimony to the power of generosity to change the world for the better. This year, the Gates beneficence is being unleashed on Hillsborough County via an education grant to the tune of some $100 million.

I’ve often wondered what good could be accomplished if we put our money where our priorities should be and actually invested in education, but I’m honestly not sure that this is what we need!

You see there’s a huge elephant in the room we simply must address. I’m talking about the foundational set of premises that

drives the 100 million dollar train.

Here they are: Better teachers = better schools... better schools = better education... and better education = successful children who become fully functioning adults. So far, so good.

We’re concerned about the future, and we know our children really should be better equipped than they currently are. Okay, no argument there.

Therefore… ergo… we need to improve the teachers. All this leads to the following conclusion; poor teaching must be the reason society is – essentially – on the brink.

Flawed logic!

There you go. That’s American education in a nutshell, and there’s really not much to argue in anything I just said, at least prior to the conclusion. However (and this error is at the root of much that passes for contemporary social and political debate), stringing a series of statements together that are – ostensibly - true does not necessarily prove the case, nor justify so many sweeping generalizations.

In the case of education, there are good teachers and there are the not so good.

Professional standards, supervision and accountability often work together to accomplish a “so-so” job - as in any profession.

practices in terms of classroom instruction.

But, the initiative seems to be being parsed as “Fix the teachers and everything will be Okay.”

But, and this statement needs to be hung on a huge banner in every legislature in America - and a few school board meeting rooms for good measure, “Classroom time = a mere 14,4% of a child’s year – and that’s assuming perfect attendance. Kids actually spend more or their lives with the computer and the TV than a classroom teacher! The key variable in preparing children to succeed in life is the home.”

That’s worth repeating: The key variable in preparing children to succeed in life is the home.

But the legislature can’t get inside my house or yours, and neither can Mr. Gates (unless Windows 7 is even trickier than we knew!). So we do what we can do and we throw rocks at the teachers instead.

The Gates Grant’s end game is the laudable goal of identification and implementation when it comes to best

Well, no, it won’t!

1. Bottom line, the majority of teachers don’t need fixing. Hillsborough County’s teachers are already well qualified and competent. They’ll doubtless benefit from the Gates program the same way they profit from any of the extensive training they already pursue.

2. The Gates program is already being used as an offensive weapon more than an opportunity to grow. Such an approach will negatively impact the classroom.

3. What public education really needs is a general revival of family life; one that takes more active responsibility for raising children, supports education, and works to re-craft the values that define our culture.

But that’s another column – or series.

Meanwhile, we should understand that we can’t blame the teachers for what we seem to be unwilling to take on ourselves.

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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extra » ken lawrence the finances of Florida and both oppose near shore oil drilling. Being a Republican at a time when the GOP is on the rise again, gives Atwater an edge.

» Commissioner of Agriculture Alex Sink has Slight Lead for Governor

Marco Rubio Leads the Senate Race in FL

Get Ready to Vote

Pam Bondi in Race to be Attorney General

The November 2nd Mid-Term Elections submitted By: ken lawrence

It has been called “the most important non presidential year election in many decades”.

B

y the tone of the talk around Plant City, there is little to argue that people are “chomping at the bit” to get out on November 2nd, or to an Advance Poll to cast their ballots. A little advice… Be prepared when you go to a polling station, because there’s a long list of candidates and issues for this and that, you’ll be asked to decide upon.

Given that the Governor’s job is up for a vote, we would normally give that position prominence, but such is not the case this year. People want to send a message to Washington and that’s where we begin.

» Congress Talking to many locals over the past month, we have noticed a feeling of betrayal among many of them towards Governor Charlie Crist, who abandoned the Republican Party to run for the US Senate as an Independent, when he realized he could not defeat Marco Rubio.

The fact that Crist also seemed to embrace many of President Obama’s policies after he had previously denounced them, made many voters that much more angry.

As a result, Marco Rubio seems to have locked-up the Senate job over Crist and Democrat Kendrick Meek, by a pretty wide margin in all local and national polling.

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When you receive your ballot, you may see as many as 17 names for US Senator.

Rubio’s name is at the top, followed by Meek, while Charlie Crist’s name is buried among the others, Independents and october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Write-Ins. Charlie just can’t seem to get a break.

The next chance to give your opinion about Washington is the job of U.S. Representative.

You will have to know what Precinct you are in, in order to determine who are the candidates. There are seven Precincts in Plant City. Here’s an easy way to do that…

Go on-line at http://votehillsborough.org

Republican nomination over Attorney General Bill McCollum, in a nasty, name calling and accusatory campaign. That has been followed by a similar effort against the Democrat, Alex Sink.

The MUD has been slung back and forth and while voters say they do not like such campaign styles, political experts maintain the MUD works.

Should Alex Sink win, she will be the first female governor Florida has ever had.

Our Prediction….. Sink by a very small margin.

This is the very informative WEB site of the Supervisor of Elections and on the Home Page there is a link that says Sample Ballot. Enter your address and it will give specifics for your precinct.

How could anyone not like Pam Bondi For this article, we’ve chosen Precinct 750, for AG? Also, she’s a Hillsborough native daughter and has been an excellent which covers most of Walden Lake. prosecutor putting bad people behind bars.

It’s a good thing that The candidates for US Representative, District 9, are..

Convicted felons cannot vote, because not Sitting Member Gus Bilirakis-Republican many of them would vote for Bondi. and Anita de Palma-Democrat.

While Bondi will likely win, it should be close because the Democrat for Attorney The Bilirakis name, reputation and good General is a Palm Beach prominent work, should carry the day. attorney Dan Gelber, also a fine person.

» Attorney General

» Govenor

The campaign to replace Charlie Crist, who could have run again if he had not gone for the Senate, has been one of the most controversial of any in the country.

The GOP candidate, Rick Scott, an unknown six months ago won the

» Chief Financial Officer This position, currently held by Alex Sink, is being sought by Jeff Atwater for the GOP and Loranne Ausley for the Democrats. Atwater, a banker from Broward County and Ausley a Tallahassee lawyer, both promise more transparency in

There’s little doubt who is going to win this contest. Adam Putnam gaveup his Congressional seat in the East Hillsborough and Western Polk area that he held for several years to seek this office.

Putnam should easily win the post over Democrat Scott Maddox and two others, one of whom claims to be a Tea Party member.

» State Senate and Hillsborough County Commission Once again, please go to http:// votehillsborough.org to receive a sample ballot for the precinct in which you live.

For Precinct 750, Ronda Storms seems assured of winning another trip to Tallahassee as the Republican State Senator for District 10.

One County Commission vote, District 5 is too close to call. Ken Hagan, Republican has a real fight on his hands from Linda Saul-Sena for the Democrats.

In District 7, veteran Mark Sharpe seems to be a “shoe-in”.

Then your ballot will ask you to vote for 11 judges, whom you probably have never heard about. This has long been a sore spot with many. They are asked to vote for judges who cannot even send out any campaign literature. Some people just ignore the judges and leave that part of the ballot blank. Some countries leave judicial selections to their political leaders and if they make a bad choice, pay them back at election time.

That’s not all. You will be asked to vote for two School Board members for Districts 4 and 6 and Soil and Water Conservation candidates in Districts 1 and 5. Who those folks are and what they stand-for, is unknown.

» DO NOT FORGET TO VOTE.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

93

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october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

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extra » ken lawrence

If Amendment 4 Passes Abandoned Projects will be Common

The 2010 Election Issues From Bullet Trains to Economic Development

» Amendment 8

submitted By: ken lawrence

When voters have completed their vote for candidates in various federal, state and local offices, there are 12 Hillsborough County and 1 Plant City issues that will require a “YES” or “NO” vote.

Heading the List is the request to add 1% to the present 7% State Sales Tax, to provide funds for the Bullet Train from Tampa to Orlando and a Light Rail System, plus improved bus service around Hillsborough County. The transportation project will cost billions of dollars, much of which will come from the Obama Administration.

We have reported on the Bullet Train in a previous FOCUS article, raising the question as to whether locals will use the Tampa-Orlando service, in spite of the fact the train will not even stop in Plant City. The proposed nearest stop would be Kathleen in Polk County, at least a 15 minute drive from here, in addition to time for parking and probable security screening at the train station. Then when you reach your destination, there will be additional time and money for a taxi or bus or maybe a light rail trip.

Proponents have no answers to the above questions, but do point out that this project will create a huge economic boost for Florida, especially the Tampa-Orlando corridor.

At a time when the economy of Hillsborough is one of the worst in the country, supporters argue that this rail

project will be the catalyst to get things moving again, including construction jobs, material purchases and hopefully a return of businesses that have left the state or new companies. From that perspective, the rail project is a good one and proponents ask “what’s another penny on the dollar for a purchase”?

It still begs the question as to whether people, other than tourists, will use it.

» Amendment 2 With the sacrifices so many American men and women have made in combat duty overseas, this is a so-called “No Brainer”.

The amendment calls for an additional homestead property tax exemption for any military person who served outside the USA in 2010 and subsequent years. The amount of the exemption will be based on the number of days they served overseas and would take effect January 1st, 2011.

Vote “YES”.

» Amendment 4 From the number of “NO” signs around the county, especially here in Plant City, Amendment 4 should be defeated easily.

That’s not to say that voters should be

complacent about this proposal to “stifle” growth across the State of Florida.

The proposed amendment to the state constitution, requires that every local government must hold a referendum on their land use plans, anytime it wants to make a change to their Comprehensive Land Use Plan. The initiative for this highly questionable proposal, comes from the east coast of the state, where some activists supposedly want to “Stop” growth and feel this method can do much to achieve their goals.

Many influential organizations across America, including the National Association of Realtors (NAR), say that this proposal is absolutely wrong and should be voted “NO”.

» Amendments 5 & 6 You probably have heard the term “GERRYMANDERING”. That’s the process whereby politicians redesign voting districts to favor the party in power. It’s as old as the constitution. Amendments 5 & 6 will specify in the Florida Constitution that this practice is illegal. In the spirit of fairness, vote “YES”

With America’s and Florida’s Education system in less than acceptable condition, 24th in the world in mathematics, this amendment is worthy of careful consideration. It calls for the present class size limits in schools across the state to be a constitutional matter.

Problem is, at a time when teachers do not seem to “getting through” to several students, particularly in high school, is it efficacious to increase classroom size?

This is an issue where budget conscious families must weigh dollars and cents against the future well being of their children.

There are other issues on the ballot, including a non-binding state referendum, calling on Washington to provide America with a balanced budget. Will Congress listen?

There’s a provision to eliminate veto powers for a Hillsborough County mayor and a call for Hillsborough County, including Plant City, to offer property tax exemptions to new businesses and expansion of existing businesses.

Communities across the USA do it all the time.

Please be informed when you go to vote.

Go online and search for any news about the Florida election and cast your ballot wisely.

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

95

extra » Auto Review

It’s a Jeep Thing J

eeps have been a popular vehicle since they were made famous during World War II. The Jeep was invented out of necessity; the necessity for American troops to navigate the rough and varying terrain encountered throughout every theatre during the war. Since then, anything that allows people to get out on the open terrain has become very popular with the buying public – especially the Jeep. When you climb behind the wheel of a Jeep, you immediately get a feeling that you could drive over or even through the Grand Canyon, if you had to.

The Jeep has evolved over the years into more than just an off-road vehicle. Now

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Jeep Wrangler 4-Door is All That submitted By: Brian West

Jeep is a brand with several models. What was once just referred to as a “jeep,” must now be clarified as a Wrangler, depending on who you talk to. Just a couple of years ago, the traditional Jeep we’ve all come to know and love, realized its most recognizable change since it was first introduced some 60-70 years ago – the 4-door Jeep. It’s almost one of those ideas that when finally realized, the automaker had to question themselves, “Why didn’t we do this a long time ago?” It’s been a big hit for Jeep.

The Jeep Wrangler comes in three trim levels; Sport, Islander, Sahara, and the topof-the-line Rubicon, and all are available

in the traditional 2-door or the Unlimited 4-door version. I spent some time with a Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Unlimted 4-door.

There’s such a big difference with the additional 20 inches of wheel base and 2 extra doors. The 2 extra doors add 10 inches to the overall length. The ride is so much smoother than the traditional 2-door Jeep. Don’t get me wrong. This isn’t a Mercedes. This is still a Jeep. The suspension is still very tight for offroading, but there is a noticeable difference in the comfort with day-to-day city and highway driving.

On the exterior, not much has changed.

The 2010 Jeep Wrangler still has the

same basic Jeep look. But that’s one of the things that set it apart from other vehicles. The body styling is timeless. It’s recognizable. Under the hood, there’s a 6 cylinder 202 hp engine. Most Jeep owners would agree there should be more power.

This Jeep, just like its predecessors, leaves the driver longing for more power. The vehicle sure seems capable of handling additional power. All in all, there’s plenty of cargo room, leg room, cup storage and the like. It’s a Jeep, not a luxury vehicle, so if you’re a Jeep person, you’re likely to love the 4-door. If you’re interested in a new Jeep, visit our friends at Winter Haven Jeep and tell them you read about the Jeep in Focus Magazine.

THANK YOU TO THE PLANT CITY COMMUNITY, FOCUS MAGAZINE, THE MANY STUDENTS AND PARENTS AT CHRIS WELBON KARATE CLUBS AND ALL THE SPONOSORS FOR MAKING THIS POSSIBLE. Baker Family Ritchart Family Michele Strano/Sharon Medina Michael Family Jarrett Scott Ford Robinson Elementary Kindergarten Mr. Campbell Mary and Arthur Wood John Curls Banko Doors Inc. Ayscue Family State Farm-Crosby Insurance Agency Margaret Birt Cleaning Plant City Lock and Key Chinander Family Florida Strawberry Festival Barbas, Nunez, Sanders, Butler and Hovsepian Oleene Sheffield Janet Kelly Kutur Salon

Cathy Stein Plan Mortgage Inc. Jim Von Dolteren M.M. Smith Smith Family Booher Family Dubaj Family Mark Bodine Kordek Family Harrell Family McAlister Family Thomas Hunter Tadlock Family Scrivens Family Schnitt Family Davis Family Durand Family Carole Chastain Stacy Hallman Maria Kathleen Hermano-Soriano, DDS, PA The Corner Store

Mango Family Cleaners Freddie Ray, Motivational Coaching MST Freight Services City Properties Rusty Shinault and William Lucas Suzanne Gallagher Christine Weber-Coldwell Banker Libby Voitman and son Beef O’Bradys-Plant City Bartow Chevrolet David Dodd, M.D.

Cardona Family Jenkins Construction Company Inc. Plant City Rotary Club

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

97

entertainment » dining profile Esposito’s Pizza 2803 James Redman Pkwy Plant City, FL 33566 Sunday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Friday & Saturday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

813-704-5971 Mozzarella cheese (served with bleu cheese for dipping or spreading on the top upon your request.) There are lots of factors that contribute to a great pizza - crust thickness and texture, sauce, and good topping synergy among them. The crust was floury and soft. Not too crunchy, not overcooked.

The mixture of chicken, cheese, and wing sauce went well together. The size of the pizza, eighteen inchess across, means that two people or less will be taking home leftovers, especially after the filling Garlic Knots.

Esposito’s Pizza E

Mangiare bene per vivere bene (Eat well to live well)

written By: Jason Stone

sposito’s Pizza is the standard for passion when it comes to family owned restaurants.

“We put our heart into everything we do,” said Michael, co-owner and chef. The Esposito family moved to America from Naples, Italy and have been making pizza for 40 years. Michael’s father, also named Michael, runs the business from the family’s first restaurant in Lakeland and has ensured that “every one of our shops has a family member in it,” as Michael said.

98

not be how great it looks, though, and it’s not. FOCUS Magazine came in and was given our choice from the menu. From Gourmet Pizza, strombolis, calzones, Italian subs, salad, and pasta, we began with the Chicken Wing Pizza. Michael suggested we also try the Garlic Knots and Homemade Meatballs for an appetizer, and the homemade Tiramisu for dessert.

One nice thing about this place is the restaurant itself. The interior is decorated in a wide array of bright colors and one side is all windows to bring in lots of natural light.

The garlic knots were surprising. “These are a best seller,” said Michael. “We use the same dough we make the pizza crusts with.

We sprinkle a little garlic and parmesan on them...” and then they pour butter all over them! A step up over traditional garlic bread, they are about the size of a potato roll. You get six of these bad boys on a plate, surrounding a side of in-house homemade pizza sauce for dipping all for $2.95. My teeth sank slowly into the warm dough, and the butter and garlic made it rich. With the red sauce the combo was amazing. I let one of these sit on my plate for a while and I’m sure it was even better from taking in more of the butter.

The best part of a restaurant had better

The Homemade Meatballs were huge. As

A few restaurants strong, there’s a good mix of the personalized family-food taste and atmosphere, and the unmistakeable skill that comes from decades of experience.

october 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

The Tiramisu is made exclusivey by the senior owner of Esposito’s. “He won’t let anyone touch it,” Michael affectionately said of his father. Eat this and you’re tasting dessert made by an Italian mastera cookie is first dipped in Espresso (which is imported from Italy for this use) and crumbled up. The cream filling is made four to five layers deep and drizzled over the top with semi-sweet cocoa powder. It also gets a little splash of rum. It is very soft and the rum can be tasted. This is also tender and juicy as meatballs can get (and available to purchase in a cooler near the as big!), they are seasoned with Italian seasonings and served with toast and sauce. door if one just wants to stop in for a takehome treat.

The anticipated Gourmet Chicken Wing Pizza came after the appetizers. The menu describes: Topped with sliced chicken breast marinated in our zesty homemade medium chicken wing sauce, smothered in a special blend of Parmesan and

Finally, it is rare to experience such friendly attitudes in a restaurant from the staff. Michael is ready to show you the Esposito way of doing things. Let him know what you think, he will appreciate it.

» dining guide

special advertisement

asian chen

F

resh specialties, top chefs, and great prices are what you can expect at The Asian Chen Restaurant located in the Thonotosassa Publix shopping area. Find out why customers are raving about this new fine dining establishment. Monday-Thursday 10:30am-10pm.

Friday-Saturday 10:30am-11pm: Sunday 11:30am-10pm.

Seniors receive a complimentary beverage with their meal and party trays are available.

2609 thonotosassa rd. plant city, fl 33563 813-757-9888

cowboy’s saloon and steakhouse

C

owboys Steakhouse and Saloon features a restaurant for meat-loving southerners to enjoy southern cooking and a connected saloon to line dance in afterwards. Inside everything is wooden from the floors to ceiling. Come in and enjoy juicy steaks,but don’t forget about our fresh baked sour-dough, and other appetizers and entrees that are sure to make your mouth water.

106 State Road 60 E. Plant City, FL 33567-9253 813- 650-8888

chili’s

C

hili’s has been spicing things up since 1975. There is something for everyones taste. From Sizzling chicken or beef fajitas, fired grilled classic burgers or the new honey chipotle baby back ribs that are slow smoked over pecan wood so they’re “fall-off-the-bone” tender with a bold new honey-chipotle flavor that’s impossible to resist.

Call in or come in, your always welcome at Chili’s.

3001 James L Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33566 813-764-8548 • www.chilis.com

Esposito Pizza

S

traight from Naples, Italy Michael Esposito and Michael Jr. bring you authentic Italian pizza and other delicious items. This family owned and operated business brings 25 years of experience, traditional family recipes, and the freshest ingredients to the plate. Stop in to taste for yourself the calzones, unique pizza topping combinations, mouthwatering garlic knots and other Italian dishes.

2803 James Redman Pkwy Plant City, FL 813-704-5971 foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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» dining guide

special advertisement

fred’s southern kitchen

F

red’s Southern Kitchen is homemade cooking at its finest. We are proud to offer the best in family dining with recipes that have been developed from a 50 year Johnson family restaurant tradition. You’ll find crispy fried catfish and chicken, smoked ribs, homemade soups, fresh salads, casseroles, desserts, made from scratch entrees, along with our signature Southern vegetables.

1401 W. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd Plant City, FL 33565 813-752-7763 • www.FredsSouthernKitchen.com www.Facebook.com/FredsSouthernKitchen

kazbors

N

ew menu and new owners make a great blend for mouth-watering food, great drinks, friendly service and perfect family atmosphere. Not only is Kazbor’s is the best bar and grill in town to go to for lunch or dinner, but they’ve got the best wings for game night and some of the best drink prices around! Happy Hour is every day from 3-7pm and Thursdays are all you can eat wings for $9.95. With 20 TV’s and the NFL Sunday ticket, you’ll never miss a game!

2212 Jim Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-2700

olde town pizzeria

I

f you love deep-dish pizza, Olde Town Pizzeria is the only place around to find it. The cheesy Chicago-style pizza is a popular item on the menu, as well as the Award Winning Strawberry Walnut Salad and thin crust pizzas. In addition, they have an array of delicious pastas, salads and sandwiches to satisfy all taste buds. This family owned and operated restaurant is a Plant City favorite for those who love high quality food and friendly service.

3011 James L Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33566 (813) 752-5800 • www.oldetownpizzeria.com

the red rose dining room

T

he Red Rose Dining Room is the only 5-star rated restaurant in Plant City. Mrs. Evelyn Madonia invites you to allow Executive Chef Matteo Casini to take your taste buds on a delicious journey.

Enjoy an elegant setting and beautiful atmosphere for lunch or dinner. Tuesday and Wednesday evenings feature an all you can eat prime rib and seafood buffet. On the weekends you can catch fabulous entertainment (visit the website for upcoming shows).

2011 N Wheeler St Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-3141 • www.redroseinnandsuites.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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entertainment » red rose groups like Destiny, who play a variety of tunes spanning decades and including top hits from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. Ralph Allocco, Second Wind, Lola and the Saints and P J Leary are also crowd favorites. In addition to great musical entertainment, the Red Rose Inn and Suites is famous for their weekly Singles Night Out gathering and Step by Step Dance Lessons with talented dance instructor, Susan Staton. The weekly events are paired with the famous Polo Club Lounge that provides a setting for group gatherings or intimate tables for two with daily drink specials. For more information about upcoming events and activities go to www. redroseinnandsuites.com.

George Galfo’s Mystics include members Anthony DeFontes (front), Joe Neary, George Galfo and Howard Sprotzer.

Photo Courtesy of the Red Rose Inn and Suites

Legendary Mystics D “

Perform Doo Wop Top Hits at Red Rose Inn

Upcoming concerts at the Red Rose Inn and Suite include Soul Music Night (70’s Soul Party Tour Show) with the Legendary Delfonics on Saturday, October 23rd. Please call ahead for reservations as this event is sure to be a sell out concert.

The number to call for reservations or information is (813) 752-3141. The Red Rose Inn and Suites is located at 2011 N. Wheeler Street, Plant City, FL 33563.

written By: kelleigh klein

oo Wop returns to the Red Rose Inn and Suites through the magical sounds of the George Galfo’s Mystics. The Mystics performed to another packed house at the Red Rose Inn and Suites on Saturday, September 25th. Patrons of the evening enjoyed Chef Matteo’s mouth watering five star meals while enjoying music and dancing to the great doo wop tunes as only the Mystics can perform.

Originally known as the Overons, the group began performing back in 1956 playing doo wop songs in basements of apartments and pool rooms. In 1958, a local older fellow who said he had “connections” told the Overons that if they could come up with $1,000, he would get them into a recording studio and on their way. The Overons took out a loan and in mid-1958 they went into the Broadway Recording Studio at 1650 Broadway in Manhattan. They recorded, with musical backings, four original tunes: “Bells are Ringing”, “Prayer to an Angel”, “Why Do You Pretend”, and “Big Brown Eyes”.

At the end of the session, The Overons realized they were being ripped off because $1,000 was way too much to pay for what they had just done. The entrepreneur with “connections” was soon on his way . . .

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and so were the Overons to the top of the charts (www.themystics.biz).

In 1958, the Overons became the Mystics. The original members of the Mystics included Albie Cracolici (original baritone), Phil Cracolici, Allie Contrera (first tenor), George Galfo (second tenor) and Bob Ferrante. In addition to the original four tunes recorded, the Mystics recorded a total of 16 chart topping smash hits that also included “Don’t Take the Stars”, “The White Cliffs of Dover”, “Blue Star”, “Sunday Kind of Love”, “Adam and Eve”, “All Through the Night”, “I Began To Think of You” and more.

Originally known as the Overons, the group began performing back in 1956 playing doo wop songs in basements of apartments and pool rooms

”

In 2002, one of the original Mystic’s (George Galfo) re-created the Mystics group. Members of the new group include Joe Neary, Anthony DeFonte and Howard Sprotzer. Even though the group member names changed, the legendary doo wop musical extravaganza continues.

The Red Rose Inn and Suites, under the ownership of Evelyn and Batista Madonia, is the favorite musical and dinner venue for thousands. In addition, the Red Rose Inn and Suites offers a wide variety of music and events to attract a very diverse audience. Calendar favorites include

George Galfo’s Mystics pack the house at the Red Rose Inn Suites.

Photo Courtesy of the Red Rose Inn and Suites

www.FredsSouthernKitchen.com

Eat Better. Love Life. Live Longer.

facebook.com/FredsSouthernKitchen

foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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entertainment Âť artist of the month painting everything from walls, floors, ceilings and various landmarks such as the Albert Schweitzer Memorial Organ. In their field of expertise and artistic accomplishment, Mays and Mr. Underwood were in high demand and widely sought after.

Recently, Mays has relocated back to Plant City, where he is quickly working on establishing a presence in the art scene. Currently he has works on display at the Chamber of Commerce depicting panoramas of different States he has visited while traveling, which captures what he feels is the essence of a particular place. On display is a wonderful example of Plant City that captures our town perfectly. With his collection of panoramas, Mays hopes one day to complete a coffee table book of State murals.

Local Artist Breathes To The Arts of Plant City New Life A written By: Heather Davis

rden Mays grew up in Plant City within a family who holds strong ties to the heritage of our town. Like many of us who grew up in small town, Mays, which is the name he chooses to go by, was ready to venture out. Throughout his young life Mays traveled extensively both within this country and abroad .

After completing University, he moved to Atlanta ready to embark upon his path.

It was there that Mays was discovered and asked to collaborate with a very well known and established artist in the area, Gerald Underwood. For many years Mays and Mr. Underwood worked together creating murals and decorative painting techniques in homes and establishments,

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With the creation of art the forefront of everything that Mays does he is working hard to capture the attention of Plant City by creating an Art Gallery and Working Art Studio to be known as Arden Mays Designs. Within the location of 1071/2 Evers Street in downtown Plant City, Mays is establishing an artistic gem and visual feast for the eyes. Arden Mays Designs has a projected Grand Opening date of November 13th and will be open to the public after that date on Tuesday through Saturdays from 9am4pm, or by appointment.

For more information or to view May’s art work you may visit his website at www.ardenmays.com.

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754-9073 foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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entertainment » event calendar

plant city

calendar of events

If you have an upcoming event and would like us to add it to our calendar of events please email the information to: editorial@floydpublications.com

» BBQ Chicken Lunch Fundraiser 11:30am - 1:00pm.

Advance sale only. All orders To-Go - Pick up at Central Florida Construction, 1805 Jim Redman Pkwy. Proceeds benefit the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure through Plant City’s Team Passionately Pink. Tickets are $10—includes Chicken, Baked Beans, Potato Salad and bread. For orders of 6 or more at one location, delivery is available in Plant City.

Call Lynne Warren for tickets, 813-927-1289.

Saturday, October 16, 2010

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Saturday, October 23, 2010

» Strawberry Classic Car Show 4:00pm-9:00pm Historic Downtown Plant City Car Show, Vendors, Local Antique Shops open, Live Music, and Great Commeraderie. Parking in North and South lots near the Depot, Drane, and Palmer. For more information call 813-7543707.

» Ribbon Cutting-Professional Christian Counseling Center 10:30am 110 E. Reynolds Street, Suite 807

» Oktoberfest Open House 11:00am - 1:00pm.

Plant City Family YMCA located at 1507 YMCA PL. For more information contact (813) 757-6677.

» “Fun with Flowers” 10:00am - 2:00pm The Plant City Garden Club will hold a “Fun with Flowers” workshop featuring a seasonal flower arrangement. Location will be the Hope Lutheran Church 2001 N. Park Rd. Plant City.

Certified instructor and judge from the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs, Bess Treadwell will be the instructor. Cost for the work shop will be $17.00 this includes your container, flowers and lunch. Reservations are a must as space is limited, please R.S.V.P. by sending a check to the Plant City Garden Club, inc.; P.O. Box 3471; Plant City, Fl 33566 no later than October 11, 2010. For more information contact Christy at 813-752-5874. » Art in the Park 8:00am Walden Lake Park Sponsored by the East Hillsborough Art Guild.

For more information call Leo Watson 7196533. » NSRA Appreciation Show 10:00am-3:00pm Historic Downtown-North Lot & Depot Area

Sunday, October 17, 2010 » Pastor Appreciation Day 10:30am Plant City Church of God invites you to join them for Pastor Appreciation Day. Service begins at 10:30 a.m at 2103 Mud Lake Rd. For more info call 813-752-4591 or visit www. plantcitycog.com

Monday, October 18, 2010 » Voting Early voting will start on October 18th. You can cast your vote at City Hall in downtown Plant City.

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» Wild Florida Alive 3:30pm The BRUTON MEMORIAL LIBRARY will feature a program entitled “Wild Florida Alive.”

This is an environmental adventure highlighting Florida’s endangered species through live theatre, storytelling, shadows, masks and original music. Free tickets will be available at the Library starting October 12. » Free lunch and learn event 11:30am - 1:00pm eBridge Solutions, a web-based document management company, has partnered with organizational consultants, Custom Productivity Services, to present a free lunch and learn event titled “Getting Organized and Going Paperless Can Protect Your Business From Disaster.” Space is limited, so RSVP to sjones@ eBridgeSolutions.com today!

Wednesday, October 20, 2010 » Planes, Trains, & Automobiles 8:30am 106 N Evers Street

Thursday, October 21, 2010 » Business After HoursCrawford- Hill Interior Design 5:15pm 1407 E. Baker Street

» Plant City Optimist Club/Plant City Recreation & Parks Department Golf Tournament 11:00am In support of Plant City area youth, The OPTIMIST CLUB OF PLANT CITY extends an invitation to you for their 16th.

Annual Plant City Optimist Club/Plant City Recreation & Parks Department Golf Tournament. This Annual event will take place at the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club. Registration will begin at 11 AM with a shotgun start at 1 PM. The format is a 4-person scramble. For more information, call Walt Arnold 813-752-1602, Pat Stottlemyer at 813759-1019, Paul Woods 813-752-0356 or Jeb Hicks 813-754-8804.

sunday, October 24, 2010 » Veterans’ Monument Guided Tour 1:30pm - 2:30pm The Plant City Veterans’ Memorial Monument Committee Will Host a Guided Walking Tour of The Plant City Veterans’ Memorial Monument Park At Courier Field Sunday, October 24, 2010, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Sponsored by The Plant City Armed Forces Memorial Foundation, Inc. in partnership with the city of Plant City, Florida. The tour will begin in the Engraved Brick Gathering Area in The Park at Courier Field, North Wheeler Street

» Halloween Party 6:00pm - 8:00pm Animal Wellness Center will be hosting their » Ambassador Meeting first Halloween Party. Have a spooky picture 12:00pm with your pet, refreshments, animal tricks ‘n treats, and much more at this costume party! For 106 N Evers Street more info call 813-752-2869.

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Friday, October 22, 2010 » Red, White and the Blues The Polk Museum of Art will be hosting Red, White and the Blues in the VooDoo Lounge.

There will be performance from Grammy Nominated Blues Artist Ruthie Foster. Tickets are $30 for general admission and $75 for VIP. For more info call the museum at 863-688-7742 x 240.

Thursday, October 28, 2010 » LUNCH & LEARN The LUNCH & LEARN series continues at the Trinkle Center, 2206 East Cherry Street. This gets underway at noon and the cost is $7.00 which includes lunch. Call Terri Scott at 813757-2190 for additional information.

» GFWC Woman’s Club BBQ 4:00pm - 7:00pm The GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City is holding a barbeque chicken dinner to support scholarships and educational projects of the Club. This will be catered by Johnson’s Barbeque and will take place from 4 to 7 PM at the DEPOT in Plant City. This is a take out dinner and will be packaged in a takehome box ready for you to enjoy. The meal will consists of ½ chicken, cole slaw, baked beans, roll and homemade dessert. All this for a $10.00 donation. For information, call Sandra Lodato at 813-982-0199.

Friday, October 29, 2010 » CRACKER COUNTRY FEST How about a CRACKER COUNTRY FEST sponsored by the Plant City Day Break Rotary Club to benefit the United Food Bank of Plant City? That’s right! Join in the fun of old time country food. The dress is casual, the food and drink will make you want more and the atmosphere will be fun, fun, fun. On top of that you will be supporting a great local mission, the PLANT CITY UNITED FOOD BANK. This event will take place at George & Cassandra Banning’s backyard, 2506 Clubhouse Drive, Plant City. The cost is $75. per person.

RSVP no later than October 20 by calling 813759-1638 or you can e-mail your reservations to: wenlake@aol.com.

Saturday, October 30, 2010 » Pet Parade 11:00am Southside Farm and Pet Supply will be hosting a Pet Parade beginning at 11am. All types of pets are welcome. Bring your pet dressed in its best costume to compete for Prettiest, Funniest, Scariest, and Most Original. Southside Farm and Pet Supply is located at 3014 James Redman Pkwy. For more info call 813-7522379.

sunday, October 31, 2010 » Trunk or Treat 6:00pm - 8:00pm Shiloh Baptist Church is hosting a FREE fall celebration, Trunk of Treat. There will be food, fun, games, and much more from 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Shiloh is located at 905 W Terrace Dr, Plant City. For more information call 813-754-7445.

Have a Safe & Happy

Halloween

Woodside Dental

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entertainment » event calendar Thursday, November 4, 2010

Thursday, November 11, 2010

» Business of the Year Banquet The Greater Plant City Chamber’s Economic Development Council will hold their Annual BUSINESS OF THE YEAR banquet at the Red Rose Inn & Suites. Ten businesses will have been nominated in four different categories. You will want to mark your calendars for this great event. Call the Chamber office for information and tickets at 813-754-3707.

» Veteran’s Day Ceremony 10:30am Hopewell Funeral Home will be hosting the 25th annual Veteran’s Day Ceremony beginning at 10:30 a.m. Students from the local schools will offer reflections entitled “What Veterans Day Means to Me.” The entire event will pay tribute to all veterans. Hopewell Funeral Home is located at 6005 County Rd 39 South, just south of State Road 60.

Saturday, November 6, 2010 » Bike Fest 5:00pm The Chamber’s BIKE FEST will take place on Saturday, November 6th. in downtown Plant City. Great family fun. Come look over the great motorcycles. Starts at 5 PM. » Art in the Park 10:00am - 3:00pm EAST HILLSBOROUGH ART GUILD will present “Art in the Park” at Walden Lake. This event will start at 10 AM and go to 3 PM. For information, call Nancy Driscoll at 813-7579700.

sunday November 7, 2010 » Illusionist Brock Gill 6:30pm Illusionist Brock Gill will be performing at First Baptist Church Plant City at 6:30 p.m. To learn more about Brock visit brockgill.com. FBCPC is located in downtown Plant City at 503 N Palmer Street. For more info call 813-752-4104.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010 » Celebration of Life Banquet 6:00pm The PREGNANCY CARE CENTER OF PLANT CITY is holding their Annual Celebration of Life banquet at the John R. Trinkle Center, HCC at 6 PM. The theme this year is “Happy Birthday Baby”. Individual tickets are $25. and sponsor tables of eight are available for $250. This is always a great event.

Tickets and additional information is available by calling 813-759-0886. » Leadership Plant City- Law Enforcement 8:00am 106 N Evers Street

Friday, November 12, 2010 » Dancing With The Locals DANCING WITH THE LOCALS sponsored by the Plant City Noontime Rotary Club.

This fun filled evening takes place at the Red Rose Ballroom on Friday, November 12th. Call Aaron Davis at 813-754-4444 for tickets and additional information.

Saturday, November 20, 2010 » Strawberry Classic Car Show The Chamber’s STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CAR SHOW will be held at McCall Park in downtown Plant City. This show will feature all years and all models of Ford Mustangs. Great fun event for the entire family. Free admission, featuring 50’s, 60’s and 70’s music. 50/50 drawing. Specialty shops and restaurants open LATE.

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» Learn to Dance with Susan 7:00pm - 9:00pm Learn an easy, fun and fast method to start dancing with any partner on any dance floor. No partner needed. Call 863-604-5060 (small fee) » Prime Rib & Seafood Buffet Enjoy baked, broiled, steamed, and fried seafood including lightly battered fried shrimp.

Succulent steamed crab legs, even tender prime rib au jus with all the trimmings! All this plus salads and desserts to tempt the most demanding pallates! Music from Free Time Jazz.

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Shopping Meal Preparation Housekeeping Much more!

Helping the Whole Family

813-655-9098  homehelp@tampabay.rr.com

» Singles Night Out Happy Hour, Dance Contest, Bottle of Wine and $50 Gift Card Giveaway PLUS music from Destiny and either Mellissa Malone or Tony Johnson.!

Wednesday, November 10, 2010 » Contact Breakfast 7:30am The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce monthly CONTACT BREAKFAST will take place at the Red Rose Inn & Suite ballroom.

Always a great program. Starts at 7:30 AM. Cost of the breakfast is $15. Please call the Chamber to RSVP at 813-754-3707.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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entertainment Âť crossword

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foCUS Magazine Plant City october 2010

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SHOW YOUR PRIDE Buy a Memorial Brick to Honor a Veteran The Veterans’ Memorial Monument Park at Courier Field is now open to the public with hundreds of engraved bricks honoring US Veterans now on proud display.

The Veterans’ Committee will host a guided walking tour of the Veterans’ Memorial Monument Park on October 24, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. The event is open to the public and is free of charge.

We still have a limited supply of bricks available for purchase, so order your veteran’s brick today. All bricks purchased will be unveiled for viewing at a special patriotic event later this year.

Plant City’s new Veterans’ Monument at Courier Field is allowing you the opportunity to commemorate our USA Veterans with an engraved memorial brick.

Each brick will become a permanent part of history in Plant City! Memorial bricks are open to all veterans of the USA military services: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard.

Include the name, rank, branch of service and dates if they fit into the character limits of 15 characters per line.

We encourage everyone to honor the US Veterans in their life!

Payment enclosed:

Check

Money Order

$150 Each Brick

Donor’s Name: Mailing Address: Phone Number:

Brick Engraving: 3 lines- 15 characters each line, including spaces and punctuation. PLEASE PRINT. Line 1 (15 characters)

You don’t want to miss out on this great opportunity!

Line 2 (15 characters) Line 3 (15 characters) Send to: Plant City Armed Forces Memorials Foundation, Inc., PO Box 5013, Plant City, FL 33563-0036

www.veteransmonument.com

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