FOCUS Plant City 10-04

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April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

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foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

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Table of Contents 26

12-47 local

Volume 10 Issue 4 • April 2011

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Enjoy the great stories about Little Miss Plant City, Redefining Beauty, new local teen performance group NRG, Nobel Peace Prize recipient Elie Wiesel, Run in the Son, Mower Madness, a hot air balloon trip, a Turkey Creek Gobblers’ Sockhop reunion, and our amazing Relay for Life event. Also, check out entry details for the annual Focus on You Makeover contest.

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feature

Plant City is home to another famous family-fun festival. It’s Blueberry Festival time and the upcoming 3rd Annual takes place May 1st at Keel & Curley Winery.

on the cover Joe Keel

Owner of Keel and Curley Winery Photographer: Sophia Hyde

ALL NEW FOCUSPLANTCITY.com

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spotlight interview

This month meet Keel & Curley Winery owner Joe Keel and learn how he and his management team developed exciting events like Friday Uncorked and the upcoming annual Blueberry Festival.

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featured business

Since 1973, Busciglio Orthodontics has enhanced smiles. Now Dr. Derek Busciglio has designed an awareness campaign and an educational online game that helps players understand the dangers of texting while driving.

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dining profile

Check out the review of Chili’s tasty offerings and make plans to treat the family soon.

Licensing Opportunity

Licensed territories are available. We are looking to expand the family and are looking for motivated individuals to join our award winning team.

If you are interested in owning your own Focus Magazine contact Mike Floyd at 813.707.8783 ext 26.

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April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

Online Features Include:

Full digital version of the current and past magazines Extended features, interviews, dining profiles and business profiles with extra content Community news updates New home of FOCUSTV

Your Smile The most attractive thing you can put on.

Braces and Invisalign for Children and Adults Free Consultations Affordable Financing Available Certified Premier Invisalign Provider Most Insurances Accepted Se Habla Español

Dr. Derek M. Busciglio Dr. John A. Busciglio LICENSED ORTHODONTIC SPECIALISTS

www.TheOrthoDoc.com

NEW LOCATION

623 East Alexander Street • 813.759.9474 at Alexander Crossings Plaza

TWO LOCATIONS TO BETTER SERVE YOU! 515 Corner Street, Brandon 813-681-9473 foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

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April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

Letter From The Publisher I encourage you to begin reading this issue by starting on page 14 with our adventure story before reading the rest of my letter.

Sophia wrote that article from her perspective of our experience deep sea fishing. I cannot explain to you the adrenaline rush I was feeling for all that time I was holding on to that line. During that moment, I didn’t know how much longer I would have the strength to make it. Mentally I just kept fighting through it, knowing the battle would well be worth it.

See why everyone is driving to Bartow to buy a car from TOM EDWARDS.

The word disappointed is not sufficient enough to describe what it felt like when I ended up with an empty line. It felt as if all my fighting had been in vain. I had no epic story to bring back home to my sons. I lost. It was a feeling of defeat after he got away.

But then I heard the stories from the recent Relay for Life event on April 8. You hear the stories of these men and women who have fought cancer and all the pain that comes with it. We celebrate the survivors, and we grieve for the others. But for the ones who fought hard and lost, was their fighting in vain? No. Of course not. I can only imagine that the devastation of that defeat is the anti-climactic feeling I felt multiplied times a thousand.

The beauty about fighting the battle, is that it is not fought alone. When I was holding the line with all my strength, I had six people behind me feeling every emotion I was for nearly an hour. Though I was the only one exerting physical strength, my defeat was as much theirs. And had we successfully worn out the shark and reeled him in, my celebration would have been no greater than theirs. We were a team.

It’s so amazing to see how strong our community is, and Relay for Life is annually a time where you see the entire community come together for one cause. In this issue, we covered the recent Relay for Life event.

We also bring to you this month, the story of Joe Keel, The Keel & Curley Winery, and the upcoming Blueberry Festival. I always find it fascinating to learn the history of how things began. Taking the tour of the winery with Joe and learning where they began to where they are now was incredible. Make sure you check out that article.

Finally, we have VERY exciting news to share with you! Starting this month, we have released our brand new website. Visit www.focusplantcity.com to find a website that caters completely to you and your community. We have included many of the articles that run in the magazine each month, as well as the virtual flip book, FocusTV, and an event calendar. Never before has Focus had a website as interactive as what we can now provide you. Go check it out and let us know what you think!

Mike Floyd - Publisher mike@floydpublications.com

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information.

Publisher Mike Floyd mike@floydpublications.com

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

Plant City, FL 33563

Office Manager Dede Floyd dede@floydpublications.com

Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990

Copy Editor Cheryl Johnston cjohnston@floydpublications.com

www.focusplantcity Credit Manager Angel Carter acarter@floydpublications.com Standards of accuracy: The goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-warming stories that are accurate from the start. Being human, however, we sometimes make mistakes. Please forgive us.

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

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

Advertisers warrant and represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects.

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

Sales Sophia Hyde | Holly Farmer Julie Hasting | Erik Butler | Linda Simmons Brent Simmons Production Anthony Sassano Tony Cartagena FOCUS TV Shana Johnson Distribution Byron Spradlin Belva DeVane Photographers Billy Friend Lori Blaser | Stephanie Humphrey Staff Writers Cheryl Johnston Brian West | Joe Bowles Derek Maul | Kelleigh Klein Heather Davis | Laura Estes | Dan Conrod | Kristi Linbaugh | Heather Davis Megan Braglin | Brittany Cerny Contributors Al Ruechel | Gil Gott Bruce Rodwell | Jo-An Lusk | Nate Davis

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And when we celebrate a cancer survivor, it is not a battle they won alone. In fact, it can’t be done. Every cancer victim needs a team behind them feeling the emotional fight with them. And while they may be the only one feeling the physical pain, the pain for the friends and family is no less significant. So when the battle ends in victory, it’s a celebration for all.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

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Talk of the town

Submit your Talk of the Town to: editorial@floydpublications.com

1971 PCHS REUNION

The Plant city High School class of 1971 will celebrateg its 40th Class Reunion on Saturday, June 25th at 6:30 p.m. at the Red Rose Ballroom.

Classmates, spouses, teachers and those close to the Class of 1971 are invited to attend. For more information please contact: Kaye Robinson Williams at kbone34@aol.com 813-754-3392 (Home) 813-716-0157 (cell) or Sherrie Chambers Mueller at Sherriemul@aol.com 813-752-5889

Cure for Morgan Cut-A-Thon

SPEECH CONTEST WINNER The Plant City Noon Rotary club Hosted its annual speech contest on March 14th, 2011. The speech contest is held every year in conjunction with the Plant City Morning Rotary club. Seven students participated from Plant city High School as well as the Simmons Career Center. Kelsey Fry, from Plant City High School won the contest and will move on to the next round of Rotary competition.

Pictured: Jim Scott Rotary President and Kelsey

Congratulations Durant Varsity Color Guard on your Silver Medal Win!

After a long season of countless hours of practice Durant High School Varsity Colorguard team finished with a silver placement in the Florida Federation of Colorguard Circuit Championships on April 2, 2011. The Varsity squad led

by Captain Allison Fudge and Co-Captain Bree Dyer performed a Bollywood inspired show entitled Dola Re Dola that was filled with exciting music, fabric and lots of glitter.

TAMPA TRIBUNE SCHOLARS

Plant City High School recently recognized students earning the honor of being named Tampa Tribune Scholars. These students are ranked in the top 3% of the class of 2011 at Plant city High School.

Pictured: PCHS Tampa Tribune Scholars First Row: Leemarie Bocanegra, Chelsea Fordham, Danielle Miller, Analise Coffee, Brittany Browning, Lauren Morris.

Back Row: Ali siddiqui, Jonathan Scott, Adrian Gozalez-Lozano, Aric Aumond, Nichelas Bryce, Nathan Cruzado, Benjamin Willis.

Pictured: Allison Fudge, Bree Dyer, Tiffany Miller, Kaitlin Hartzog, Taylor Mew, Erin Parke, Hannah Jimenez, Elizabeth Barwick, Kristy McGuire, Umarin Patamasak, Karli Bello, Samantha Pendergrass

ARMED FORCES MEMORIAL

The Plant City Armed Forces Memorials Foundation will dedicate the third group of newly-engraved commemorative bricks at a patriotic event in honor of Memorial Day on Friday, May 27, 2011. The 30-minute ceremony is open to the public and is scheduled to start at 11:30 a.m. at The Veterans’ Memorial Monument Park at Courier Field. Several area dignitaries are expected to attend the event, including Plant City Mayor Dan Raulerson.

The engraved bricks can still be purchased for a $150 donation, as long as supplies last. Brick orders must be received no later than April 30, 2011, to be included in the May 27 dedication. Bricks ordered after April 30, will be dedicated at a later date. For More information visit their website at www.veteransmonument.com.

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April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

“Morgan had my heart from the moment I met her. Chemotherapy had taken her strawberry blonde hair, but it could not rob her of her infectious spirit and irresistible personality.

Over time I have learned that within this seemingly fragile 8-year-old lies the heart and determination to fight the most dreaded disease we know. Her continued fight against cancer provides hope to other families who must help guide their little ones through the darkness. I am consistently humbled by Morgan’s strength and have looked within my soul to find some simple way to help her family during this difficult time. The battle against cancer is a long and arduous journey fraught with fear, anxiety, and great expense. If my fund raising effort helps pay one bill, defray some travel expense, or help give one less sleepless night, I will consider my portion of my mission complete.” Arthur Springer.

Morgan Pierce was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma in November of 2008. Visit http:// www.sparklyflower.com/ to get updates on her progress in fighting this disease and to share words of encouragement and love.

WOMAN OF DISTINCTION Congratulations Somer Harvey. 2010 Girl Scout Award recipent! Somer recently had the honor of speaking along with Jenna Bush Hager (Daughter of former President George W. Bush) at a “Women of Distinction” banquet March 22 in Tampa.

Pictured: Somer Harvey and Jenna Bush Hager

Talk of the town

Congratulations Durant JV Color Guard on your Silver Medal Win!

CONGRATULATIONS MISS AVA HASTING ON YOUR 1ST PLACE WIN Ava Hasting won First Place Most Elegant Costume Contest and Second Overall Costumes!

HONOR GRADUATES PCHS

Plant City High School Honor Graduated of the Class of 2011 met recently to celebrate their accomplishments.

To be an honor graduate a student must accumulate a 4.0 weighted GPA by the end of first semester of his/her senior year.

TOMLIN FFA WINS FIRST PLACE

2011 State FFA Middle School Livestock Judging Contest was won by Tomlin FFA which placed First in the state out 41 teams. L to R; Ethan Vaughan-High Individual in the State, Jarrett Gillman, Anna Conrad, & Meredith DelCastillo-4th High Individual in the State.

EAGLES FOOTBALL AND CHEERLEADING SIGNUPS

The Plant City Eagles Football and Cheerleading League have begun registration for the 2011 season.

Registration fees are $85.00 for new youth registration and $75.00 for returning youth. Registration is available at the Bealsville Recreation Center, 5009 Nesmith Rd, Bealsville Community; Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Recreation Center and the Glover School Historic Landmark, 5104 Horton Rd. You may also download a registration form from the Plant City Eagles Website. www.plantcityeagles.com The Eagles are also seeking Football and Cheer Coaches. All potential coaches must be certified and must pass a background check. Person to contact is William Thomas at (813) 716-2324 or (813) 737-1352 or 737-2004.

The JV squad led by Co-Captains Sydney Roberts and Lyndsey Miller gave an award winning performance with their show entitled When You Come Back Down. Sponsor April Moody said “You know you’ve had a successful season when you watch your guard members leave the performance area with both grins and tears because they know they just had their best performance of the season. To medal is icing on the cake.”

Colorguard Director Kevin Griner would like to thank the staff, parents and kids for a great season saying “The dedication and hard work once again paid off for a second medal winning season at our championships.”

Pictured: Sydney Roberts, Lyndsey Miller, Halie Nagy, Lacey Locker, Alexa Nardello, Lily Vazquez, Katie Silas, Michelle Pelham, Brittney Kenney, Allison Kenney, Haley Joy Grissom, Haley Jill Sumner, Emily Thornsten-Riley

FUN AND FLOWERS The conversations and fellowship was plentiful with lunch and coffee. FFGC President Elect and instructor Jan Sillik kept everyone entertained as she dispensed with plenty of tips and demonstrations for creating beautiful flower arrangements for one’s home during the Fun with Flowers Workshop, hosted by the Plant City Garden Club.

Twenty three ladies created lovely spring arrangements and before lunch gathered together for photos around Ms. Sillik showing off their creations.

Reader’s Digest recognized Little League pitcher Chelsea Baker

Supermodel Niki Taylor visited City Hall to deliver a $1,000 check from Reader’s Digest and to recognize Little League pitcher Chelsea Baker, who will be featured in the May issue. foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

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Adventure three Offshore Fishing

Story and Photos by Sophia Hyde

Julie landed the first catch.

In January, the Focus Magazine staff started a Meanwhile, the rest of us were experienc commitment to take on 11 Adventures ing a in 2011. rang e of emotions. We were anxious, excit The goal was to challenge ourselves to ed, take on new nervous, scared. We didn ’t know what to imagine! opportunities we may otherwise neve r experience, I mean, we had jaws on the hook down there and and in the process build a stronger team . we were going to attempt to reel him into the boat!

Adventure #3 was to go off shore fishi ng. We woke up before the sun was out and head ed to Time continued to fly by and 30 minu the gulf to set sail with Mark Lyons of tes later Lyons Mik e was still wrestling with this big boy.

Charters.

By now the shark had been on every side of the boat and under it, but never close enough to the We drove off the cost for about half an surface for hour us to see this creature. Every time we thou before anchoring. Sure enough, not long ght we after were getting closer, the shark would chan dropping her line down, Julie had caug ge its ht the mind, and we would hear the line start first fish of the day, and Mike was only spinning about one away out of control. minute behind her. We were soon on a spree of catching lots of grunt for the cooler, and many Another 20 minutes went by and ever grouper that we had to put back since yone’s eyes they were had been glued to the action without any out of season. rest.

Mike was using all his strength to hang in there.

Mark said we were just going to have Our fishing trip had been underway to wear him for several out until he gave up. He said he had neve hours when Mark, our captain, noticed r seen the bent a fighter like this and estimated this coul pole at the back of the boat. d be the largest shark he’d ever caught.

Tony and I were relaxing in the ocean water. We had been in the gulf for several hours, caught an ice chest full of fish, and were cooling off from the sun. The rest of the staff lounged in the boat, and Holly had climbed the ladder to the top to sunbathe.

Heading out for adventure number 3.

Holly and her catch.

Sophia fishing for Grunts

Tony wishing it was Grouper season

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April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

There are no words to describe the inten sity of the antic limactic emotion that filled the air. Sudd Two fishing poles hooked with large en bait had been disappointment doesn’t do justice to describe how readied for hours waiting for somethin g to take we all felt. Mike reeled it in only to find notice underwater. Mark shouted for a broken us to get out hook. After almost an hour of struggle, the shark of the water immediately as he briskly grabbed the had broken our hook, stole n the fish, and went on pole and started reeling. his merry way.

Earlier in the day Holly reeled in a four -foot sandbar shark , which took about 10 or 15 minutes. However, this time around, Mark wasn’t reacting the same. He quickly handed the pole off to Mike and went to get the belt.

Mike was struggling to hold the line. We just kept hearing it reel away, not in. Then Mark started clearing everything off the dock and making lots of room.

He didn’t do this when Holly had a shar k, so this was obviously a different scenario all together.

As Mike was using all of his strength to hang onto the pole and try to reel it in inch -by-inch, Mark went over to the wheel and start ed revving the motor. This sucker was heavy and he was not moving. Mark estimated that he had to be around 300 pounds and was just sitting on the bottom of the bay rocking his head back and forth in an attempt to steal away the bait. He gues sed it was probably an 8-10 foot shark.

Mike’s agony of defeat.

Anthony was awarded smallest catch of the day.

As we were all watching the line close ly, it just fell.

Suddenly Mike’s arms were at rest and there was nothing fighting back. He had gotten away. He was gone.

However, all hope had not been lost.

We left home before dawn that morning and headed straight for the marina with one goal in mind: to have an adventure. And by golly, we certainly did. Many of those on our staff had neve r been offshore fishing, and I had never been fishing at all. We had more fish in our cooler than we could possibly eat, photo ops with giant grou per and a small shark, and an amazing experienc e we shared as a staff.

We can’t wait to hear what stories com e out of our next adventure. Hopefully they don’t include Tony and me swimming in 30-ft deep wate r with giant sharks circling beneath our feet.

[The offshore fishing charter was provided

by Lyons Charters. Visit www.tampabay-fishingcharters.com or call 727-776-7719 to arrange a chart er for your group]

Go Online To Check Out THe ful

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Focusplantcity.com

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Plant City Church of God - 2103 Mud Lake Road 813.752.4591 www.plantcitycog.com foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

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Local » focus

2010 FOCUS Makeover Winners

who deserves a makeover The time is now to nominate someone for the “Focus on You” Makeover.

M

any people know someone who is selfless, someone who always seems to be helping others. Now think for a second about someone you know like that. Who was the first person that came to your mind?

Sometimes those people need a break, and they need a day where they aren’t concerned about helping those in their lives. It is not a selfish thing, just something well-deserved.

Well, fortunately, FOCUS is offering a day like that for four lucky people. It is the magazine’s annual “Focus on you Makeover,” which rewards people with a day of pampering.

So if you know anyone who deserves a makeover, FOCUS is here to make it happen with the help of other businesses in the community.

To nominate someone, send a 300-word letter describing why he or she deserves a makeover. It can be submitted via mail, e-mail, or fax. All nominations must be received by midnight May 11. Four winners will be chosen and notified on May 13.

Letters should be titled “Focus on you Makeover Plant City” and mailed to 702 W. Dr. MLK Jr. BLVD., Plant City, FL 33563. Entries can also be e-mailed to acarter@Floydpublications.com. Write

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April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

“Focus on you Makeover Plant City” in the subject line and send the entry in the body of the e-mail – please, no attachments.

Entries should include the name of the nominee and the nominator, along with the nominees address, home phone number, and work phone number. For faxing, call (813) 764-0990, Attn: DeDe. Letters and entries will be published in FOCUS Magazine and photographs will be taken, during the makeover day, and published in the following month’s edition.

So what’s in store for the four lucky winners?

The evening before, the winners will pick out a new outfit. The day begins with breakfast, and then comes a massage, followed by a lunch with the FOCUS staff.

After lunch, the contestants will have makeup done after a professional facial, manicure, pedicure, and haircut.

To top the evening off, a limo will transport the winners and their dates to a photo shoot and to enjoy an evening of fine dining. It is sure to be a day not soon forgotten.

Local » Focus

Nobel Peace Prize winner and Holocaust survivor, Elie Wiesel, appeared in the Town Hall Lecture Series in Sarasota where he was gifted with an original portrait by Ringling College student Matthew Buck.

Elie Wiesel Nobel Peace Prize Winner, Holocaust Survivor, and Humanitarian photos and article by: Cheryl Johnston

E

lie Wiesel’s autobiography Night, published in 1959, is one of the most widely read Holocaust books in the world.

When Nazis deported his family to Auschwitz, the author, born in Romania in 1928, was 15. His mother and younger sister were put to death. Two older sisters survived, but his father died just before the April 1945 liberation of the Buchenwald Camp to which they had been transferred.

Wiesel, the 1986 Nobel Peace Prize winning writer/philosopher, spoke to more than 3,500 guests March 7, 2011 at Sarasota’s Van Wezel Performing Arts Center. The hugely popular Town Hall Lecture Series, presented by the Ringling College Library Association, has for 31 years hosted award-winning intellectual and artistic leaders as a major fundraising effort to benefit students. Town Hall is now recognized as the leading lecture series in Florida.

As the Andrew W. Mellon Professor in the Humanities at Boston University and the founding chairman of the United States Holocaust Memorial Council, Wiesel the teacher influences across cultural boundaries. His highly regarded work, humility and wisdom have earned for him a number of prestigious awards, an honorary Knighthood of the British Empire, and the 2009 National

Humanities Medal.

He and wife Marion established The Elie Wiesel Foundation for Humanity to facilitate international dialogue and combat injustice, indifference, and intolerance. The author/speaker has invested much of his life and resources working to defend oppressed people. To learn more about his efforts worldwide, visit www.eliewieselfoundation.org.

According to Wiesel, “The main problem today is indifference. So many are indifferent to others’ tragedies and pain.” Before the lecture he told a media roundtable group, “Indifference is a choice.

It’s easier not to be involved, not to look at those who suffer. “ Obviously, this begs the question, “How can we help with international dialogue?”

Wiesel proposes, “Meet with them, every month ... Have coffee together … Believe in that possibility (that we can live in peace) … It’s never too late. Let your imagination help. People want to know each other better. They want to know the good in the other person.”

Ever hopeful, Wiesel encourages, “We live in the information age. Immediately, in an instant we have access to information.

But information must be transformed into knowledge, and knowledge into sensitivity, and sensitivity into commitment. … In spite of suffering, faith must continue.”

foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

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Local » Focus

Brooke Warnock and Kayla Clenney

Run in the Son: I

Mom, Casey Runkles with children, Laney, Roby, and Bryce in tow

Plant City’s First Baptist Church’s Annual 5K Run article By: Kristen Hitchcock | Photos Compliments of: First Baptist Church

’m starving! Words we hear and say so often. But are you really? Studies say 46% of the children in Guatemala are malnourished. “That is just a number until you meet one of those children, and then they become Maria, Miguel, and Catie,” states Melissa Hale. So what can you do about it?

On March 19, 2011 at 7:00 a.m., 55, wide-eyed or half-asleep, depending on who you ask, runners, lined up to race in Plant City’s First Baptist Church’s Run in the Son, 5K Mission Run.

Buddy and TommieSue Plaire

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April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

Several years ago Mike Storter, Minister to College and Career/Recreation, began to direct 5K runs to raise money for different missions. This is a way for the whole family to help raise funds for mission trips and have a good time in the process. This year racers included: serious runners, walkers, bikers, boys, girls, dads, and moms on a mission with the whole family in tow including the baby. “We love seeing families show up with strollers and wagons and just supporting missions as well as getting

at the San Juan Malnutrition Center.

The race helps offset the cost of the trip for each of the missionaries. This trip is sponsored by Orphan’s Heart, but it still costs about $1600.00 for each person.

These missionaries are committed to Run in the Son is definitely for everyone, the vision in Acts 1:8, “Be witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all of Judea and but you can’t have a race without winners. The winners for each age group Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” were: Bryce Runkles and Hayden Eager This is the 2nd year the 5K mission run for 0 to 4 years, Hannah Manley and Caleb Eager for 5 to 9 years, Madison has directly benefited the Guatemala Manley and Carson Knox for 10-14 Mission. “I am so excited to be traveling years, Tiffany Abbott and Ryan Bennett back to Guatemala. Trips like this changes your perspective on everything. for 20 to 29 years, Christie Raburn and It is a beautiful country with beautiful Jeremy Burris for 30 to 39 years, Traci Walding and Joe Dickerson for 40 to 49 people who need Jesus and provision,” years, and Debra Dickerson and Greg states Melissa. Thanks to the help of the Run in the Son 5K, the missionaries can Howard for 50 to 59 years. Overall take both. winner for the women was Christie Raburn in 20:36 and overall winner for For more information or others ways the men was Ryan Bennett in 22:36. that you can help with the Guatemala The proceeds raised from this year’s race Mission Trip visit www.orphansheart. went directly to the Guatemala Mission com or www.fbcpc.com.

Team. The Guatemala Mission Team consists of 20 missionaries who will be traveling to Antigua, Guatemala to serve some exercise,” smiled Melissa, runner and assistant organizer. Some of the ladies had never even participated in a 5K before and this was a huge accomplishment for them.

Dr. Brenda Dukes Chiropractic Physician

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT STATINS…

There is a lot of evidence suggesting that elevated cholesterol, even LDL cholesterol does not cause atherosclerosis (a cause which is felt leads to heart attack and strokes) by itself.

The real cause of atherosclerosis is chronic inflammation in the wall of the blood vessels.

Statins do not work by reducing cholesterol – they reduce inflammation and suppress immunity.

When statin drugs were first developed and released the makers had knowledge that they reduced production of coenzyme Q10, this is a vital energy molecule used in every cell in the body, the muscle cells and brain is greatly affected. Manufacturers also knew that statin drugs could cause levels of CoQ10 in muscles to drop so low it could produce a highly fatal condition called rhabdomyolysis. At first they added CoQ10 to the statin drugs to prevent this, but then they decided it might terrify patients and doctors alike, so they very suddenly removed it.

Even to date a large number of doctors are not aware of this development and do not suggest CoQ10 supplements to their patients.

More evidence has noted widespread use of statins is causing an epidemic of heart failure in this country, because CoQ10 is absolutely essential to the heart. Also, it is known that low levels of CoQ10 can cause heart failure and that supplementing with CoQ10 can improve the condition of some patients who suffer from heart failure.

Please note that this advice is general and not specific to any individual. You should consult with your doctor before undertaking any medical or nutritional course of action.

SPECIAL NOTE: Sunday April 24, 2011 is EASTER Sunday. Please join with us in prayer and Thanksgiving for serving a Risen Saviour.

Blessings, Dr. Dukes and Staff

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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foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

19

Local » Focus Plant City Discount Pharmacy not only carries free antibiotics and has the $3.99 Medication Program, they also have the best cash price in town. Being a member of Associated Pharmacies, Inc. allows the pharmacy to stock medications at the bestdiscounted prices.

all discounts from big box stores brought to one local plant city discount pharmacy location W article and Photos By: Kristen Hitchcock

ouldn’t it be nice if you didn’t have to run to one pharmacy for the free antibiotics, another for the $3.99 medications, and to a whole other town to get that last prescription that nobody seems to carry? Plant City Discount Pharmacy can meet all your needs.

Owner and pharmacist Meena Kukreja worked for CVS for 10 years. She was always discouraged because she couldn’t do everything for everyone. Some people couldn’t afford their medications and some medications would be unavailable.

“I felt like my hands were tied.” The last straw was when a patient she had formed a friendship with ended up in the hospital after a bad reaction to two different medications from two different pharmacies because of the deals.

When patients go from one pharmacy to another, they don’t think to tell the pharmacist about all the other medications they are taking, and the pharmacist doesn’t

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April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

always have the time to ask. For example, antibiotics interfere with cholesterol medicine and even elevates the cholesterol levels. If you get your antibiotics for free at one pharmacy and your cholesterol medications for $3.99 at another, neither pharmacist knows the background of the patient, which can cause problems.

As a result of her frustration, Meena opened Plant City Discount Pharmacy on January 1, 2011. She is now the decision maker. Her main goal is to bring everything together for the community.

She is no ordinary pharmacist to be able to make a one-stop shop; she is also a consultant pharmacist and an immunizing pharmacist. Meena can read a patient’s profile as well as their lab reports, and provide immunizations when needed.

If a patient is unable to leave the house, she also makes home deliveries twice a day, Monday through Friday and once on Saturdays. Plant City Discount Pharmacy also accepts all insurances including Medicaid and Medicare Part-D.

Meena wants to meet everyone’s needs.

Customers can always reach her for questions, concerns, or last minute prescription needs by calling the after hours’ number. Meena said, “I really want to see a healthy community around me.”

Along with all the great deals, prescriptions are filled quickly. Prescriptions in store are typically filled within five to ten minutes. There are never any worries that a medication a patient needs is out of stock because Meena’s wholesaler carries every medication. She also has a backup wholesaler as well, which enables her to receive any hard-to-find medication by 11:30 the next morning. Workmen’s compensation claims with 100% coverage can be filled in 10 minutes flat, while prescriptions requiring prior authorization will be ready within 24 hours. If a patient is still in need, Meena is willing to do anything to help.

Meena has created Plant City Discount Pharmacy to have the hometown flair. “I want to create an environment that feels like a family, a place where you are not a number, but a name. You see the same pharmacist and tech every time.”

For convenience, reliable service, great prices and a pharmacist you can call friend, consider making Plant City Discount Pharmacy your new medications provider.

Meena looks forward to watching her family of customers grow.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

21

Local » Focus

“

Redefining Beauty is a ministry for woman of all ages to help them realize their inner beauty outweighs their physical outer beauty.

edition of “The Early Show” on CBS, in which she saw a group of young girls who started a club called Redefining Beautiful, Cheyenne established Redefining Beauty.

Redefining Beauty A Ministry to Recognize Your Inner Beauty article and Photo by: Kristen Hitchcock

H

ave you ever had a passion and wished you could just act on it?

Meet Cheyenne Bolton who is doing just that.

Cheyenne is the 15-year-old daughter of Rodney and Hope Bolton. When

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April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

Redefining Beauty is a ministry for women of all ages to help them realize their inner beauty outweighs their physical outer beauty. Cheyenne bases her ministry on 1 Peter 3:3-4: “Don’t be concerned about the outward beauty that depends on fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. You should be known for the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God.”

Cheyenne’s goal is to establish Redefining Beauty as a club at Cheyenne was four, her paretns began Strawberry Crest High School, where to instill in her that she is beautiful she is a sophomore. She also hopes to just the way she is. Her pastor, Randy see clubs established at Plant City High Humphrey of Hope Weaver Church, told School and hopefully, all other area high the congregation to find their ministry: schools.

“Whatever you feel God is telling you to do just do it”. Combining her parents’ Every Monday Cheyenne has declared wisdom, her pastor’s call, and an October as “No Makeup Monday” because, she

”

says “I want girls to know they are pretty without makeup.” It’s not that she thinks makeup is bad. She just believes some women wear too much and the makeup covers their real beauty.

Cheyenne is also forming a Drama Team to help in exhibiting the cause. Seeing can become believing and peer influence works well to deliver the Redefining Beauty message.

Presently, with the help of her mom Hope, Cheyenne is hosting luncheons to make others aware of the ministry.

Complimenting her daughter, Hope said, “I am the creative side of the ministry, but Cheyenne is the feet doing all the work.” Each luncheon will have speakers, music, and maybe a performance by the drama team. The next luncheon’s theme is “Independence from Make-up” and will be held around the 4th of July.

For more information visit Cheyenne on Facebook RedefiningBeautyPlantCity or email redefiningbeautypc@yahoo.com.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

23

Local » Focus Special teachers like Mrs. Isabel Martin Preacher, whose father Mr. Harry Martin was the first principal, recalled how when she wore green, students had better be prepared because it was test day. She was at Turkey Creek long enough to teach several generations.

Another favorite memory was Latin Slave Day, where the “slaves” dressed in togas and the “masters” made them work by carrying their books around the school. This was a time when if one got in trouble in school, they might as well “hang it up” because punishment at home was sure to follow.

Turkey Creek Gobblers article and photos By: Diana Brink

“When memories of bygone days return to view When friends of old clasp hands and hearts beat true.

Remember then the school that saw you through…”

Turkey Creek High School Alma Mater

T

hat’s what a group of friends and family who graduated from Turkey Creek High School are doing making plans to remember the bygone days. Facebook pages and a connection to the past have brought them together.

This event will gather a Turkey Creek student body where it’s a small world with alumni as kin or friends. TCHS had small graduating classes of 75 to 100 students and was a country school where everybody knew everybody.

A group of graduates decided it would be fun to plan a get together where alumni and family could spend time remembering and revisiting the past.

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April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

A Sock Hop seemed the perfect venue where everyone can come and relive old memories of a school that saw each of them through.

Patricia Gibbons Ballard, Class of ’66, Glenda Cooper Roberts, Class of ’61, and Sharon Driggers Faircloth, Class of ’67, are part of the planning committee.

At the organizational meeting they relived memories of the past.

One example was the rival football game against Plant City High School played every year just before Thanksgiving.

It didn’t matter what kind of season they had. If the Gobblers won, it was a winning season. If they lost it was a losing season.

Plan Sock Hop Reunion

Other memories took them back to the days when girls were allowed to wear only dresses to school, and the football team wore dress pants, white shirts, and ties on game day. Each student sported their “Beat Tags” (a cardboard diamond with a turkey in the middle) autographed by their friends.

The Sock Hop is scheduled for Saturday, May 28, 2011, from 7 - 11 p.m. at the Brownlee Barn. The cost is $20 per person. Southern Style Catering will provide the meal and and a DJ will spin oldies. Also, RV sites are available for $7 to $10 a night.

Gold and Blue, the school’s colors, will adorn the walls. The Gobblers will also be able to get a golden mum. An area will be set up for dancing and another area set for reminiscing. Just be sure to BYOC (bring your own chair).

Participants are encouraged to dress in the era during which they graduated.

So far, the oldest graduate registered is James O. Brownlee, Class of 1938.

Casual dress is fine.

For registration details, contact Pat Ballard at (813)659-1240.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

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Local » Focus and a raffle, the Rainbow Ball raised approximately $100,000 this year. But what do all these funds actually do?

The Child Abuse Council’s mission is to build stronger families in the Tampa Bay region through child abuse prevention and family education programs. “The main theme is parent education,” states Paul D’Agostino, executive director, Child Abuse Council. Just this year the programs have educated 40,000 adults. The council also educated 30,527 students this year through their Kids on the Block Program.

This program is for 3rd and 4th graders at 162 schools in Hillsborough County.

Each day of the school year, performers of “Puppets with a Purpose” present lessons on child abuse, bullying, and stereotyping.

The funds raised through the Rainbow Ball mainly fund education in Plant City.

The 24th Annual Rainbow Ball was flawless. From beginning to end, it was a memorable experience. And the best part?

Families win!

Jodi Smith and Yvonne Fry, Rainbow Ball Committee Co-chairs. Photo by Kristen Hitchcock

Rainbow Ball Committee.

Photo by Kristen Hitchcock

Dance to the Music N eon pink, yellow, orange, blue, and green mixed in with a little Saturday Night Fever, a tremendous dinner, dancing, auction, and great cause, equals one amazing disco at the 2011 Rainbow Ball.

The 24th Annual Rainbow Ball on Saturday, April 9, 2011 was the place to be and a night to remember. Months and months of preparations go into this one affair which benefits the Child Abuse Council.

Each ball has a different theme and this year was like no other. This year’s theme of the 70s and disco was inspired by “Dance to the Music,” an entertainment troupe from Busch Gardens. As the Ball was wrapping up last year, the Busch Gardens troupe recommended this theme from a show they were currently doing. The Rainbow Ball Committee lead by Yvonne

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April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

2011 Rainbow Ball Written By: Kristen Hitchcock

Fry and Jodi Smith were hyped over the idea. In August, 21 multifaceted women began to make decisions surrounding the organization of the ball. “Each committee member brings a different talent: auction, entertainment, sponsorship, food, and decoration,” states Fry.

and YMCA. Funk Monster Band kept dancers on the floor for the remainder of the evening. But more than just the dinner, entertainment, and decorations, this event raised money for the Child Abuse Council.

“We do all of this to help the kids,” says Jodi.

She couldn’t have been more right. Disco sounds filled the room as guests entered.

Sunni Baerwalde greeted each guest by performing a variety of 70s songs. Stacy Dunn and team organized the decorations: a light up dance floor, neon spandex table linens, a disco ball, glow sticks, and beautiful flower arrangements by Brown’s Floral Shop.

Fundraising for the Child Abuse Council is the main purpose of this event. Six sponsorship levels include: Hope, Love, Trust, Faith, Peace, and Friendship with donations ranging from $10000 to $400.

The silent auction included art, excursions, sports, food and dining, health and beauty, luxury items, and more. The live auction included batting practice with the Rays, a Beau Rivage vacation, a Sea World adventure pack, a Yorkie-Poo puppy, and most importantly, the availability to sponsor classes given at the Lorena Jaeb Rainbow House located in Plant City.

Through sponsorships, ticket sales, silent auction, live auction, 50/50 drawing,

Dinner began with hors d’oeuvres and was followed by Cobb salad, and an entrée of filet and a jumbo lump crab cake. Even the dessert was themed - Chocolate Fondue for 2, served tableside. “Dance to the Music” performed songs like Hot Stuff

Happy Easter!

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NAILS Linda Kickliter Christal Maxwell JoAnn Register LaVonne Sapp Carla Youmans

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MASSAGE/ESThETICIANS Leah Clark Tonya Groninger

Ashley Showalter Nicole Smith Terrie Spinks Sherri Taylor Dallas Thompson (Associate)

RECEPTIONISTS Jordan Wieneke Amber Willis

MANAGER Mary Murray

OwneRs Ron & Jana Evers

1505 South Alexander Street • Suite 102 • Plant City, FL 33563 • 813.717.7700 Job Opportunities Available

foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

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Local » Focus

Faith Lighthouse Hosts Hillsong Australia Musician Frank Butler article By: Cheryl Johnston

F

aith Lighthouse Assembly of God Church hosted noted evangelist/musician Frank Butler in a 2-day revival service March 26-27, 2011.

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April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

Those who follow Christian music and mega churches remember Butler as a founding member of the Hillsong City Church in Sydney, Australia. In pursuit of his rock star dream, Butler recorded music, did TV appearances, and performed with Andy Gibb, Bee Gees, Queen, ACDC, Deep Purple, Little River Band, Fats Domino, and Paul “Crocodile Dundee” Hogan.

As the editor of a music magazine, he interviewed the Rolling Stones, The Who, The Monkees, The Animals, Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton, Roy Orbison, Ray Charles, Wayne Newton, and others.

Eventually, life in the fast lane seemed empty, so searching for answers, he explored various philosophies, Eastern mysticism, and New Age practices. When a friend died in a hotel fire in Sydney in 1975, Butler was overcome with grief and confusion. Surely life was more than just birth, work, and death.

In 1976 a good Samaritan offered a ride when Butler’s car broke down. The driver

shared the Gospel and invited Butler to his church.

Several nights later Butler went to the “Bible basher’s home to mock and laugh.”

Instead, he recalls, “God had the last laugh.” After accepting Christ, he quit the empty lifestyle of the rock world and committed his to the Lord.

Butler moved to the U.S. in 1987. From his Houston home base, he has ministered throughout America, Australia, Brazil, Canada, England, France, Mexico, New Zealand, Nigeria, Scotland, and Singapore.

Butler says that at one time he “lived for rock & roll,” but today he lives “for Jesus Christ - The Rock than never rolls. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”

Learn more at www.frankbutler.org.

Pastor Savelle Norsworthy and his wife Kathy welcome folks to visit the friendly family of believers at Faith Lighthouse for services Sunday mornings, Sunday evenings, and Wednesday evenings at 3409 Paul Buchman Parkway (SR 39), north of Sam Allen Road. Phone 813-752-1885 or 813-545-3748 or visit the church website at www.faithlighthousechurch.com for specific times and ministry details.

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813-754-0317 foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

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Local » Focus

Survivors Lap led by Plant City’s Strawberry Festival Court at 2011 Relay for Life at Plant City High School

ll 73 participating teams in the 2011 Relay for Life at Plant City High School were lined up in alphabetical order in the event program handed out at the gate, but that’s where the calm and order ended.

Throughout the infield and surrounding the track everywhere were tents and booths, trailers and bounce houses, food, drink and excitement.

From Friday, April 8th, 6:00 p.m. through Saturday, April 9th at noon, hundreds walked non-stop around the track at PCHS making the statement, “we won’t rest because cancer never rests.”

Plant City High School Hosts American Cancer Society Relay for Life 2011 Written By: Cheryl Rogers-Turner

evening, the lap known as the Survivor’s Victory Lap, there were so many survivors on the track at one time, some were still just at the start line when the first out were on the final stretch home.

Participants on the survivor lap are each living, breathing, walking testimonies of the progress being made daily in cancer research and treatment. Each beautiful face represented a story of successful treatment and a step closer to eradicating the enemy named cancer.

The purpose of all those teams was to raise money and awareness for the American Cancer Society. Funds go to continue research of new treatments as well as provide temporary housing and other programs designed to assist those caring for people diagnosed with cancer, and the cancer patients themselves.

Melissa Rowell of Seffner walked the survivor lap with her friend Kyle Meyer of Plant City. Rowell was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer in 2009. Just a few months later, a co-worker discovered her 20-year-old son Kyle was diagnosed with leukemia.

Rowell and Meyer quickly became close friends. After two surgeries and extensive treatment for Rowell, and a long series of treatments, including a stem cell transplant and four months living at Moffitt for Meyer, both now held their heads high as they walked close to one another in the Victory Lap.

One of the most striking discoveries at the Plant City Relay 2011 was the number of cancer survivors in attendance. During the first lap of the

Seven-year-old Desiree Long also walked the Survivor’s Victory Lap. Desiree, a petite little girl with sparkle and determination in her eyes, walked

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April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

the track with her mom and dad, Dorothy and Joey Long, of Plant City.

Desiree was diagnosed with leukemia in the summer of 2010. Her treatments, coupled with her parent’s faith and love, enabled her to walk the survivors lap despite the fact that she is still taking chemo and a myriad of other pills.

Although she felt sick from the chemo earlier that morning, Desiree wanted to be at Plant City High School for her Victory Lap. Cheerleaders from Shiloh Elementary, where Desiree has been missed by her friends and classmates all this school year, stopped the family as they circled the track. They quickly performed a special cheer composed just for Desiree. Tears of appreciation blurred Dorothy and Joey’s vision as they smiled at the squad from Shiloh.

It is for these, and the hundreds of others with survivor stories to share, that Relay for Life continues. Survivors are the flames that keep hope for a cure alive.

For more information please contact the American Cancer Society, http://www. cancer.org or 1-800-227-2345. watch

FOCUSTV

Survivors A

Cancer Warriors. Team Captain: Sara Ali Helmick

Plant City Episode 96 Relay for Life at Plant City High School

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foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

31

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Local » Focus

Strawberry Crest High School Earns IB World School Designation article By: Cheryl Johnston | photo By: Tiffany Ewell

seniors in the “programme” will earn the prestigious IB Diploma.

The final step to the four-part process is a school authorization visit. Three members of the IB community outside of Hillsborough County spend two days analyzing the school and its capability to implement the program.

The Director General of the International Baccalaureate Organization in Geneva, Switzerland grants IB status based on the team’s report.

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April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

I

n its second year, Strawberry Crest High School has become the newest International Baccalaureate World School of four high schools in the Hillsborough County School District.

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The other three are Hillsborough, King, and Robinson.

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Kyrylo Pavlychenko looking in microscope

SCHS opened in August 2009. According to Tiffany Ewell, the Assistant Principal for Magnet Curriculum and IB Coordinator, “We submitted our intent to seek authorization form in April 2009 and received our authorization in February 2011.”

SCHS will begin teaching the “programme” when the 2011-2012 year begins. Starting next year, graduating

Ewell was especially pleased with the commendations offered after the team interviewed approximately 30 IB students, IB teachers and administrators, including Principal David Brown.

A few of the team’s compliments included: “The hospitality was superb and the visit was well-organized; the positive and cooperative staff really believes in the value of the program; the students used many of the learner profile attributes to describe their teachers and also expressed that they valued the diversity and connectedness amongst each other.”

Ewell was also quick to recognize the excellent participation of the IB Parent Partnership in providing hospitality and interviews. She expressed special appreciation to the IB staff at Hillsborough, King, and Robinson for application process assistance.

After IB designation was granted, one site team member told Ewell, “Strawberry Crest was one of the best site visits” he had ever been on.

Needless to say, an IB high school in eastern Hillsborough County is definitely a plus for our community’s future.

Congratulations, Chargers, for a job well done!

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foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

33

Local » Focus speaking and stage appearance. Once the contestants completed the first three phases of the contest, scores were tallied and the field of contestants narrowed to the top 10. The 10 semi-finalists then responded to a question they received at an informal meeting prior to the contest.

The 2011 Queen and Court: Queen Kiah Reann Jackson, First-maid Chloe Tew, Court Member Alexis Shyan Moore, Court Member Hannah Mary Spivey, and Court Member Skyler Gill.

“Follow Your Dreams” 2011 Little Miss Plant City Contest C

article and photos By: Kristen Hitchcock

hildren are continually reminded to follow their dreams, and those dreams can include becoming a doctor, teacher, farmer, or anything else.

The dream of the night for 28 girls on Saturday, March 26, 2011 was to be crowned 2011 Little Miss Plant City.

One of the favorite local pageants, the GFWC Plant City Junior Women’s Club started this contest for little girls in the Plant City area 43 years ago. According to President Shannon Davis, “Little Miss Plant City is not a beauty contest; this is a contest that is all about personality”.

girls, which calms the nervousness. This also allows judges to see interaction and personality.

As anxious parents awaited in the Plant City High School auditorium, Plant City Junior Women’s Club President Shannon Davis welcomed attendees, thanked the families and event sponsors, and introduced the two emcees for the evening who were former LMPC queens

themselves: 1994 Queen Miss Evie Simmons and 1995 Queen Miss Lauren Smith. Both women currently teach at Tomlin Middle School.

The 2011 Parade of Contestants featured 28 amazing little girls led out by 2010 LMPC Queen Miss Reagan Brown and her court. In addition to the interview, five judges score the girls in two other phases of the competition: public

The Little Miss Plant City contest raises money to benefit the club’s annual “Shoe Project,” which provides shoes to children in 16 local schools. This year 800 pairs were distributed. Proceeds from the contest also helps to fund other community projects the Juniors might have going.

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April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

Queen Kiah, tiny in size, but mighty in personality, shined in her glory. When asked for her reaction to the win, she exclaimed, “I’m very excited,” and onlookers could definitely tell. Kiah’s parents, Fred and Lindsey Baxter, almost pulled her from the contest because felt she was too small. But Kiah reassured her, saying, “Mommy, this is going to be a good night. I just feel it.”

Obviously, Kiah was right and her mom is so relieved.

Kiah and her court will spend the next year participating in many local community service projects and making appearances at Plant City area events.

Don’t miss their first appearance Relay for Life, Friday, April 8th.

Contestants range in age from 8 to 10.

Spunk, smiles, and charm are all part of how the young ladies turn on the shine.

The day of the competition is a long one for the contestants. Most are already backstage and prepared by 4 in the afternoon, even though the program doesn’t begin until 6 p.m. The contestants are first interviewed in groups of 5 to 10

This year’s contestants were more than prepared and able to do what most parents dread. The 2010 Queen and court appeared onstage for their final appearance. Finally, after the scores were tallied, the 2011 Queen and Court were announced: Queen Kiah Reann Jackson, First-maid Chloe Tew, Court Member Alexis Shyan Moore, Court Member Hannah Mary Spivey, and Court Member Skyler Gill.

Little Miss Plant City Contestants

foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

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Local » Focus

The Abrahams, Fletchers, and Sears were among the Plant City Church of God group who enjoyed the Saturday morning hot air balloon flight.

C FO 2010

S

AW

ARD

NOMINATED BEST CUBAN

C

D E R’S C H O

ICE

Their next adventures are a trip to Word of Life for the annual Easter drama in April and an Alaskan cruise in May. For information on how to join the fun, call the Sears at 813-764-9322.

ICE

FO

Herman and Ilene Sears organized the trip for the seniors ministry they lead at Plant City Church of God. Frequent trips are part of “enjoying life on the way to heaven,” which is the ministry’s motto.

In describing the experience, Sears added, “To put it mildly, we were thrilled with the experience. Anytime you can see God’s creation from a unique new perspective, it’s a treat.”

D E R’S C H O

2010

The trip had been planned for months, and in fact, had been cancelled several times prior because of fog or high winds.

On this trip, fog in Plant City forced the group to drive to Fantasy of Flight for a liftoff there.

REA

S

The outing included several multigeneration family groups, who had decided that a balloon ride would make for great photos and vivid memories.

The approximately 45-minute flight, coordinated by Breathless Balloon Adventures, reached a height of about 1,300 feet and included two soft touchdowns - one on the lake and one on terra firma again. “Getting our feet wet was all a part of the fun,” said Herman.

US

ARD

Four hot air balloons took them up, up, and away to float over central Florida on the morning of Saturday, March 26, 2011.

Folks from other area churches such as Lone Oak Missionary Baptist and Turkey Creek Baptist also joined “The Prime Timers,” as the Plant City Church of God group is called.

AW

F

ifteen local adventurers took the smoothest flight of a lifetime recently.

Dine in • Carry Out

REA

Flight article and photo by: Cheryl Johnston

1309 S. Collins Street Plant City, FL 813-659-3621 813-764-0969

US

High and Lifted Up Local Seniors’ Ministry Enjoys Hot Air Balloon

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Owners Ed and Sharon Richards foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

37

Local » focus

3rd Annual March Mower Madness

Verna McKelvin, Manager

article By: Otis T. | Photos courtesy of: First Baptist Durant

mower frames landed Stan Porter, 82, a nice trophy.

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he First Baptist Church of Durant hosted its Third Annual March Mower Madness on March 19, 2011.

This five-hour family fun event brought together many local churches including Bell Shoals Baptist, The Crossing, First Baptist Dover, First Baptist Plant City, HopeWeaver, Knights Baptist, New Life Community, Plant City Church of God, Pleasant Grove Assembly, Shiloh Baptist, Springhead Baptist, Welcome Baptist, and more.

New mower modifications meant more intense competition in 2011. Last year the Springhead team easily won the commercial division and sparked new creativity among racers.

The Durant Pointman Men’s Ministry retained the title for fastest residential mower, which was driven by Donny Kirby from The Crossing. Travis Ellison from Palmetto and Alex Cooper from Bell Shoals Baptist earned 2nd and 3rd place bragging rights.

The children’s push mower race warmed hearts as onlookers watched the winner, Jeremy Bishop, 7, stop to help his cousin Ashley recover from a crash at turn #1 of the Durant Mower Speedway.

Seniors over 60 enjoyed a new event, the “Bagger Bowl”. The beanbag toss to push

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April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

Mower Madness is a coordinated, almost choreographed effort.

Seniors from Pleasant Grove Assembly and FBC Durant, known as the “Durant Bunch”, provided the fish fry lunch. They catch fish several months in advance and arrive early to set up the outdoor cooking area and prepare the fish and signature hushpuppies served at the Trinity Special Sportsman Pavilion (FBC Plant City’s Dennis Pawlowski’s Archery Ministry).

The Durant youth group and Women’s Ministry managed the outdoor seating arrangements, snow cone booth, hospitality and the food service during lunch. The Men’s Ministry readied the racetrack, handled safety precautions, and managed the trashcans.

Local businesses covered the cost of the event through track sponsorships.

FBC Durant’s slogan is “Experience the Difference”. Pastor Kevin Wynne acknowledges “The church plays on the slogan as an excuse to do some very strange events,” but he also reminds people, “The true difference is how one’s life will be made different when Christ becomes your Lord.”

A Lakeland mother and son who attended Saturday discovered that truth when they returned Sunday for church and received Christ. You’re invited, too.

To learn more, visit FBC Durant online at www.durantbaptist.com, in person at 7725 S. Turkey Creek Road, or phone Pastor Kevin Wynne at 813-737-2556.

Next year’s race is already scheduled for the fourth Saturday in March. Get your mowers runnin’!

foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

39

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April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

Local » FOCUS

NRG A

Acting on A Chance to Perform article and photo By: Diana Brink

lucky break - at least that’s what this group of nine are hoping for and it may just happen. NRG is a group of ‘tweens dreaming of the chance to be chosen.

You”, “Keep Holding On”, “Lean on Me” and “Friends Are Friends Forever”. They are looking for other opportunities to perform and learning new melodies.

The NRG group includes members Victor Figueroa, Bryson Keel, Arie Fry, Marybeth Stewart, Cali Boles, Marlee Arn, Courtney Coton, Emily Menia, Ashtyn Steel, and Lauren Daly.

Keep your eyes on these youngsters in the online voting competition with Triple Threat. The top five groups with the most votes will compete in Orlando on May 1st for a chance to win $1000. They’re hoping for your vote.

NRG was formed two months ago because this talented group of nine had no place to learn about the arts since Plant City doesn’t have a performing arts school. So with the help of their parents, choreographer/owner Loris Matta of Dance Carousel, and vocal coach Andrew Refalski from Orlando, the group was fashioned together.

In this short time they have already performed at the Strawberry Festival and To Vote for NRG follow this link at the Tomlin Middle School Talent Show. www.playground-magazine.com/ They dance and sing a medley of songs about friendship that includes favorites such as “True Colors”, “I’ll Be There for

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April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

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IMPERIAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PRESENTS

APRIL 26 ★ 7:30 PM J O H N R. T RI N KL E C E N T E R HILLSBOROUGH COMMUNIT Y COLLEGE [PLANT CIT Y CAMPUS] Sponsored by Arts Council of Plant City ★ Hillsborough Community College ★ Plant City Photo Archives and History Center ★ Sunshine State Federal Savings and Loan Association

Program

Miss Saigon . . . . . . . . .Schön berg/Maltby Dam Busters Mar ch . . . . . . . . . . . . .Coates Highlights from “South Pacific” ............ ............ . arr. Chase American Civi l War Fantasy . . . . . .Bilik Sea to Shining Sea . . . . . . . ar r. Whitney

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Victory at Sea . . . . . . . .Rodge rs/Bennett A Salute to the Big Bands . . . .arr. Custer Armed Forces Sa lute . . . . . . . .a rr. Custer Stars & Stripe s Forever . . . . . . . . . Sousa

For tickets and information contact the Imperial Symphony Orchestra at 863-688-3743, or visit ImperialSymphony.org or call Plant City Photo Archives at (813) 754-1578 Adults $20 / Children, Students and HCC Faculty FREE Ticket includes pre-concert reception at 6:30pm

coming soon!

Local » did you know

D. HERMAN KENNEDY & THE SOUTHLAND FROZEN FOODS CORPORATION S submitted By: Plant City Photo Archives & History Center

outhland Frozen Foods began operations in the fledgling Plant City plant in October 1943, in the midst of World War II, and in 1949 built a modern processing plant off Laura Street near the Seaboard Railroad tracks, not far from the downtown business district.

The Tampa Daily Times reported on August 15, 1953, the following: “Southland’s Plant City unit produces more frozen foods than any other plant of its kind in the Nation.”

Another major step came in 1968, when Southland added a huge 10-million pound cold storage facility adjacent to its Plant City production operations. It was a onemillion-cubic foot building of the latest design. The Plant City facility became one of the most efficient in the nation and produced all of Southland’s Southern vegetables – more than 30 million pounds of frozen vegetables per year. Southland was the pride of Plant City for years to come.

The story of Southland Frozen Foods, however, cannot be told separately from the story of D. Herman Kennedy, who served Southland in various capacities for 43 years. Kennedy began working with Philip Rizzuto, the founder of Southland, at the Ontario Center, New York operation in the summer of 1943. Later that year, Rizzuto asked Kennedy to set up a production and processing plant in Plant City. He did.

Not only was Herman Kennedy in charge of production in both the New York and Florida operations, but from then on until the beginning of 1970, Herm almost

single handedly designed, built, and ran the production department of Southland Frozen Foods.

Kennedy “was resourceful and dependable, and no production challenge was too tough for him; Herm had the ability to get things done that nobody at the time thought was possible, and more than once he was called upon to do the impossible.” (Charles Rizzuto, Southland president 1983).

Within 25 years, Southland had become one of the largest frozen vegetable and strawberry processors in the nation.

Starting with Southland as a maintenance foreman, Kennedy quickly rose to become production manager, Vice President, Executive Vice President, and, after Philip Rizzuto died (1962), he assumed the role of President. In 1970 Herman Kennedy became Chairman of the Board of Southland Frozen Foods, Inc. The corporate headquarters were in New York, first in New York City, and then relocated to Great Neck, Long Island. Kennedy, however, rejected the idea of moving to New York and continued to live with his family in Plant City. The family would summer on Lake Ontario, and he would work from the Barker, NY, plant.

That was the way Herm Kennedy was.

Friends remember him as a big man with a big smile, who loved his family and worked hard to serve his community. And he loved to fish.

Herm Kennedy also knew the farmers and worked with them. He worked with Joe McIntosh to persuade him to grow vegetables for Southland, and he bought

virtually all of the 180 acres of vegetables McIntosh produced. He maintained a staff of specialists, including soil chemists and technicians, to work with the farmers to help increase the quality and quantity of their produce, and providing assistance in seed selection, crop rotation, harvesting and marketing.

Herm Kennedy sponsored Little League teams, FFA programs, civic club programs, and participated in civic celebrations, parades, etc. He said “Southland has become and will remain an integral part, and a loyal member of the Hillsborough community.” And he was a man of his word.

remember Southland, and the spirit of Southland Frozen Foods – D. Herman Kennedy.

Sources: Mary Jane Kennedy Stewart, B.M. Mac Smith, Fredda Jones, Tampa Daily Times, Southland Frozen Foods Corporation publications, Plant City Photo Archives and History Center.

Kennedy passed away in 1986.

Not long after, Southland was bought out by Stilwell Frozen Foods, and the Plant City operation was closed. Over the years, Kennedy worked with people like Alma Barry, Montel Lester, B.C. Hewitt, John Phillips, James Mortimer, Gerald Herring, Leo Albright, Doyle Tatum, and many more whose families continue to foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

45

Local » chamber of commerce

GREATER PLANT CITY

If you were one of the many people that stopped by the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce booth at the Festival, let me say thank you for coming by. One item that attracted attention was the up-to-date full color map of Plant City. You can get a copy of this map by stopping by the Chamber office, 106 North Evers Street and picking up a copy. The cost is only $1.00. ********** On April 19th the Plant City Campus of Hillsborough Community College is holding a 2011 JOB FAIR. This is a free event for any job seeker to attend. Be ready to meet with different companies from around the Plant City area.

Bring with you a copy of your resume and dress in business attire.

For further information, email the HCC Career Center, Plant City Campus at nhamilton3@hccfl.edu. ********** On Saturday, April 23rd the City of Plant City will hold their Annual EASTER EGG HUNT. This event is being held at the Otis Andrews Sports Complex, 2402 East Cherry Street, Plant City. The event starts at 10 AM. Believe it or not, this is the 22nd year for this Egg Hunt.

The Easter Egg Hunt is FREE to all youth, ages 3-11. Each child is asked to bring his or her own basket. The youth are divided into age groups: 3-4, 5-6, 7-8 and 9-11.

Two special Golden Eggs will be hidden in each egg nest. Finders of these special eggs are to turn them in for a large Easter Egg basket after the hunt.

Thanks to the sponsors, Toufayan Bakeries and Plant City Optimist International, a hot dog and drink is free for all youth up to 12 years old.

Bunny dollars will be on sale at $1.00 each so children and adults ages 13 and up can purchase hot dogs and soft drinks.

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Make plans to bring your children. This will be great fun.

April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

********** Following the Easter Egg Hunt you can have some great fun at the 1st Annual PLANES, TRAINS & AUTOMOBILES event at the Plant City Airport, 4007 Airport Road, Plant City. This event is presented by your Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce. It starts at 10 AM and goes on until 3 PM.

submitted By: bruce rodwell At this course, your child can learn how to become a successful safe babysitter. They will learn how to handle behavior problems, rescue a choking infant or child, administer first aid, and learn about starting their very own babysitting business.

Call early to reserve a place. Class size is limited so sign up early to reserve a place.

The class will start promptly at 9 AM. This is a fun class!

On display will be airplanes, remote ********** controlled planes, model trains, automobiles, police department demonstrations, fire Remember to support your Greater Plant department equipment and flyovers.

City Chamber of Commerce members.

Shop and patronize the locations where There will be FREE flights for kids ages you see the sign: MEMBER GREATER 7-16, a kids play area, live local bands, PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF vendors, Scouting badge opportunities, and COMMERCE. a flight simulator.

Admission is free. There is a $5.00 parking charge.

Spring is here! Right in Historic Downtown Plant City. On Saturday, April For additional information, call the 30th the Downtown Merchants will be Chamber at 813-754-3707. hosting the 1st Annual SPRING THING. *********

There will be a treasure hunt, live Bluegrass music, arts, crafts & more, food and The IMPERIAL SYMPHONY merchandise vendors, children’s activities, ORCHESTRA comes to the John and more.

R. Trinkle Center at Hillsborough This should prove to be a great family event.

Community College on Tuesday, April 26th Parking is free. For additional information, at 7:30 PM. Ticket price is $15 and are call the Chamber office at 813-754-3707. available at the Plant City Photo Archives. ********** A pre-concert reception at 6:30 is sponsored by the Plant City Photo Archives. Tickets Mark your calendars for Thursday, May 5th, for this are $10. the date of the Greater Plant City Chamber For additional information, call 813-754Commerce COMMUNITY BUSINESS 1578 or 863-688-3743.

EXPO. This event will take place in a new location: The Expo Building at the ********** Strawberry Festival grounds.

The expo is open to the public and admission is FREE. Over 60 local businesses will be showing off their products, services and provide you with information. Free food samples, door prizes and giveaways are part of the fun. The event starts at 2 PM and continues to 6 PM. Plan to attend this great event and learn all about the businesses in Plant City and what they have to offer. ********** Plant City Entertainment will present a play entitled “Daddy’s Dying Whose Got the Will?” on May 6-7 & 8. This takes place at the PCE building on Thomas Street.

On May 6 and 7 the presentation starts at 8 PM and on May 8th starting time is 2 PM. Tickets are available at Hardee’s Fashions. Call 813-754-4929 for additional information. ********** On Saturday, May 7th your Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce hosts the BIKE FEST in downtown Plant City, Fun begins at 4 PM. ********** Your Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce will hold its Annual MARGARITA BALL at the Rick & Di Lott residence, Polo Place, Plant City, on Saturday, May 14th.This gets underway at 7 PM. Call the Chamber office 754-3707 for tickets and further information. ********** ART AFTER DARK OPEN HOUSE takes place May 14th in the Art Lounge Gallery, 119 East Reynolds Street. Event starts at 6 PM and ends at 10 PM.

If you have a child at least 11 years old, why not enroll them in the FREE Safe Sitter Course which is being offered at THE NETWORK, 639 East Alexander Street, Plant City, on Wednesday, April 27th.

This is near Wal-Mart in the Alexander Crossings plaza. The course runs from 9 AM to 5 PM.

www.plantcity.org

CHAMBER ribbon cuttings

Express Mobile Detailing Contact: Ismael Cruz Phone: (813) 764-5334 Email: express_mobile@hotmail.com

Anything Computers 110 East Reynolds Street, Suite 300 Plant City, FL 33563-3361 Contact: Brandon Butts Phone: (813) 659-3900 WebSite: www.mainstreetcomputershop.com Email: brandon@anythingcomputers.ws

Helping Hands Thrift Store 702 East Alsobrook Street, Unit G Plant City, FL 33563-6613 Contact: Cathy Walker Phone: (813) 781-4272 Email: cathy.walker88@yahoo.com

Level Seven Graphics 4901 West Miley Road Plant City, FL 33565-3803 Contact: Michael Pippin Phone: (813) 763-6476 WebSite: www.levelsevengraphics.com Email: mpippin@levelsevengraphics.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City April 2011

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April 2011 focusplantcity.com.com

KEEL & CURLEY KEEL & CURLEY KEEL & CURLEY KEEL & CURLEY KEEL & CURLEY KEEL & CURLEY KEEL & CURLEY Fourth Annual KEEL & CURLEY KEEL & CURLEY KEEL & CURLEY away ks ee w st ju is KEEL & CURLEY KEEL & CURLEY Festival to KEEL & CURLEY Showcase local Crop KEEL & CURLEY G KEEL & CURLEY KEEL & CURLEY KEEL & CURLEY KEEL & CURLEY KEEL & CURLEY KEEL & CURLEY

Blueberry Festival y Winery Story by Brian West • Photos provided by Keel & Curle

et ready. It’s time for the 2011 Blueberry Festival. Since 2008, Keel and Curley Winery has put on a Blueberry Festival, and each year the family event has grown. Last year, owner Joe Keel estimated there were 6000-7000 people in attendance. The past two years the event has been held in May, but this year it was moved up a couple of weeks to April, because the blueberries are ripe a little earlier this year. The 2011 Blueberry Festival will be held Saturday, April 30th from 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Sunday May 1st from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Keel and Curley Winery, the site of the Blueberry Festival, is located on the northwest corner of Branch Forbes and Thonotosassa Roads. If you haven’t attended in the past, there’s a lot to see and do. Although there is a $5.00 charge for parking, admission is free.

There is about an acre of parking immediately south of Keel and Curley, and another 30 acres located diagonally from the entrance.

Approximately 40 vendors with food, arts and crafts, and a free Kids Zone will offer other opportunities for fun. Keel said, “Even though we’re a winery, the festival really isn’t an alcohol event. It’s a blueberry event.” A 60-foot tasting bar is available. And plenty of tables and chairs give visitors a chance to relax for a moment while tasting the wines. They’ll also have blueberry shortcake, smoothies, muffins, pies, etc.

One of the big draws is the u-pick blueberries. You can pick all the berries you like. When you’re ready, they’ll have a scale so you pay for your berries by the pound. They’ll also have music out on the deck. Keel said, “We estimated that 2000-3000 people came last year to pick blueberries.” That’s a lot of people picking blueberries. So, if you’ve never attended the Blueberry Festival, come out this year and see what it’s all about. You may just find yourself taking home lots of blueberries.

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april 2011 focusplantcity.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

53

SPOTLIGHT

JOE KEEL

owner keel and curley winery

Joe Keel Article by Brian West Photos by Sophia Hyde Plant City residents are pretty familiar with the Keel & Curley Winery. But you may not be as familiar with how they got started and the upcoming Blueberry Festival. Owner, Joe Keel, has worked diligently over the past several years to transform his wholesale plant nursery into a blueberry farm, and add a winery.

He’s been very successful and we recently had an opportunity to speak with him and Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Jim Moody.

Focus: How did you get into blueberries?

Keel: Well, I was a nurseryman for many years. We started a plant nursery in 1981 and we started converting gradually to blueberries in 1995. By 2001 we were 100 percent blueberries. We have 25 acres here and it’s all blueberries. But before that we were a wholesale plant nursery.

Focus: And that led to the winery?

Keel: Yes. Once the blueberry farm was established, we realized we had a lot of excess berries. We fed them to the cows.

We gave them away. But you can only take care of so much that way. At first, we were able to handle it. The first year we had maybe 50 pounds and the next year we had maybe 300 pounds. Then we started packaging the blueberries for other farmers, and the culls started adding up. We had thousands of pounds. We had so much we were throwing it away.

People suggested things. They’d say, “Why don’t you make jam and jelly?” I really wasn’t interested in that. So I started messing around with making blueberry and strawberry wine. I was making small batches in my house. It evolved and I

continued on page 56

continued from page 54

SUPERIOR COUNTERTOPS & CABINETS

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april 2011 focusplantcity.com

went to a place in Pinellas County that sold all the equipment and chemicals and how to books; because I didn’t have any idea about how to make wine. Then I met a guy through the shop in Pinellas County that was making blueberry wine. We talked and started making wine. We started the winery in 2003. The blueberry wine is our best seller now, but for a long time it was the Strawberry Riesling. So that’s really how it all evolved. The first four years were really experimental. We really didn’t even market anything for a couple of years. But it really didn’t gain much momentum until about four years ago when Jim started with us, and we got into Publix.

Moody: Yes! Thank God for the big green grocer.

Focus: So how have blueberries fared since you got involved in 1995?

Keel: It’s continued to grow. The blueberry business has grown tenfold in the last five years. People are getting into it and they’re expanding. I expanded six years ago with a ten acre farm in the Keysville area. I got the land at a good price. It’s been a good location. It’s not convenient, but it’s a good location for us. If you multiply all the farms that were around when I started in 1995, everyone is growing blueberries.

There are bigger farms, and there are more farms.

SPOTLIGHT

JOE KEEL

Focus: I’m recalling some discussion early on about advantages and disadvantages to putting the plants in the ground versus containers, as it relates to the yield.

Keel: Well, I think the only advantage you get from putting them in containers is being able to move them around. I don’t see any other advantage. You do have to grow them in pine bark. We buy crushed pine bark by the truck load. They just won’t grow well in our sandy soil. That’s the most expensive part – getting the pine bark. The pH in Florida is too high and blueberries want low pH. And the Florida soil is just too sandy and doesn’t have enough organic material. Pine bark has a lot of organic material.

Focus: You also had to start your own distribution company for the wine.

Keel: Yes. You have to in the state of Florida. We outgrew that, and the last three years we’ve been working with other distribution companies. Although we started working with Publix with our own distribution company, it just grew to be more than we could handle.

Moody: Yes, Publix is real strict on their direct store delivery hours. They needed us to be there early in the morning, and unfortunately that’s when the big boys are getting there. That makes it difficult to get your product into the store.

Focus: Tell me about the name of the winery.

Keel: Well, Keel is obviously my last name. Curley is my mother’s maiden name.

Focus: So how is the winery doing?

Keel: It’s doing well. We’re having our best year ever. Christine Connolly, the manager, is doing a great job. This is the 4th year the new building has been open.

We have food now on Friday nights. Friday nights we turn it into Keel and Curley UnCorked. We use Fresco’s Bakery and Bistro to handle the food. They’re out of downtown Lakeland. A husband and wife own and operate the business. So we’ve turned UnCorked into a restaurant and wine bar on Friday nights until midnight.

They do well with the food and it helps us, too.

Moody: And we have live entertainment.

We have a variety of entertainers, but Ted Wray, Keeler-Grubbs, and Colt Clark all do acoustic sets and perform here regularly. =Colt plays a lot before the Lightning games outside the forum. There’s a $5

owner keel and curley winery cover charge and dinner is available from 5:00–10:00 p.m. We do tastings until 9:00 p.m. We have a Wine and Dine special for $49 that consists of 2 salads, 2 entrees, a bottle of wine and dessert. It’s real popular for couples. Reservations for Friday nights are strongly encouraged and customer can now make reservations from the UnCorked page on our website, or they can call us. At times, we have had almost the entire deck reserved.

Keel: The only time we don’t really do well is before Christmas and after New Year’s. This year we’ll probably take off a few weeks around the holidays and just let everyone get some rest.

Moody: Many people ask why we’re not open on Saturdays. Saturdays have been a challenge for us. \We don’t serve spirits.

Saturday night is a longer night for most people. There’s a lot of competition like the Hard Rock or Channel Side, and we’ve learned it’s beneficial for us to keep that day open because we do a lot of weddings and special events.

Keel: We’ve kicked the idea around to do something one Saturday a month, but we haven’t moved forward just yet. We may do a country night or something. Once we get through the Blueberry Festival, we’ll talk about what we want to do for the summer. So we may get something started.

Focus: So tell me about the Blueberry Festival.

Keel: This will be our fourth annual. Last year was our most successful. We created this thing 4 years ago this May because we have the blueberries, the wine and the winery. It’s grown to the point where last year we estimated there were 60007000 people. We had neighbors loan us their property for parking, which helped tremendously. This year we have 30 acres across the street that we’ll be able to park on. One of the big draws is the u-pick blueberries. We have a scale here and people pay for the berries by the pound.

We estimated that 2000-3000 people came to pick blueberries. We’re expecting great weather again this year. Last year was a little warm, but we did it two weeks later last year. So this year we moved the festival up, mainly because the blueberries were earlier this year – Saturday, April 30th 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Sunday May 1st 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Even though we’re a winery, the festival really isn’t an alcohol event, it’s a blueberry event. We’ve got blueberry shortcake, smoothies, muffins, pies, etc. We have several vendors that will come in for the festival.

Moody: I think we’re looking at about 40 vendors right now with food, arts, crafts and jewelry. We have the Kid’s Zone,

which is free. We have a parking charge of $5.00, but admission is free. Everything is very inexpensive. It’s really a family event. We’ll have music out on the deck, but everything we’re doing is really about celebrating blueberry season. We’ll have a 60-foot tasting bar outside with high-top tables so people can stop and relax for a few minutes and people can taste our wines for just $5.00. And we’ll have a merchandising table.

Focus: So what’s next for Keel and Curley?

Keel: Publix wants us in Atlanta, but we haven’t found a distributor yet. But going to Georgia is probably what’s next for us and the winery.

Keel and Moody are excited about their future and for good reason. Their hard work is beginning to pay off. The Blueberry Festival is just two weeks away. It’s just another way to get people involved with this spring crop that has transformed the nursery and many farms in the area over the past several years.

Stop by soon to visit the Blueberry Festival and the winery. It’s definitely worth the visit.

EASTER Worship Guide Bethany Baptist Church

3409 Cork Road Plant City, FL 33565-4949 (813) 752-9209 www.ibelongatbethany.org Easter Sunrise Service at 6:45 a.m.

9:45 a.m. Sunday School 11:00 a.m. Worship Service

First Baptist Church of Plant City

Plant City Church of God

First United Methodist Church

St Clement Catholic Church

503 North Palmer Street Plant City, FL 33563-3439 (813) 752-4104 www.fbcpc.com Easter Sunday Services at 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

3223 Gallagher Road Dover, FL 33527 (813) 719-2273 www.firstbaptistdover.org “The Power of the Cross” being performed April 16 and 17 at 6:00 p.m.

Easter Sunday Services at 8:15 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.

303 North Evers Street Plant City, FL 33563-3333 (813) 754-3519 www.firstchurchplantcity.com Good Friday, April 22, Worship Noon-1:00 p.m.

Easter Sunday, April 24 Hot Breakfast at 8:00 a.m.

9:00 a.m. worship 11:00 a.m. Mini-Musical “He is Risen Indeed”

First Baptist Church of Midway

Lone Oak Baptist Church

First Baptist Church of Dover

2902 Midway Road Plant City, FL 33565 (813) 752-7209 www.fbcmidway.org April 17, Palm Sunday, 8:30 and 10:30am “Savior - Jesus Messiah” April 22, Good Friday Celebration Service at 6:30 p.m.

April 24, Easter Sunrise Service, 7:30 a.m., Worship Service at 10:30 a.m.

3505 Lone Oak Road Plant City, FL 33567 (813) 754-5278 www.loneoakbaptistchurch.org Presentation of “The Day He Wore my Crown” Good Friday, April 22, 7:00 p.m.

Easter Sunday, April 24, 6:00 p.m.

Easter Sunrise Service at 7:00 a.m., Worship at 11:00 a.m.

2103 Mud Lake Road, Plant City (813) 752-0989 www.plantcitycog.com Easter Sunday, 9:00 a.m and 11:30 a.m.

Connection Hour at 10:30 a.m.

1104 North Alexander Street Plant City, FL 33563-2259 (813) 752-8251 www.stclementpc.org (Please see ad for times for Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday) Easter Sunday: English: 6 a.m. Sunrise Service (Bring a lawn chair), 10:30 a.m. Mass Spanish: 8:15 a.m. and 6p.m. Mass

First United Methodist Church of Plant City

Judas The Betrayer

From out of the shadows a figure emerges. He appears restless, even frightened. He’s startled to see that you are looking at him. He explains that he did not sleep last night, and as he dressed, he tell you that he is preparing to go and find the priest - to see what he can do now.

Maudy Thursday Service April 21 at 7:00 p.m.

Holy Communion to follow 303 North Evers Street Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 754-3519

He name is Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve. He explains to you what happened last night in Gethsemane, how he kissed Jesus in order to “identify” him. Wistfully, he recounts the miracles, the things he saw with his own eyes; he explains his frustration and his decision to betray. With anguish he details the Last Supper and the events leading to the crucifixion.

And he makes you think. You might reconsider your feeling about him.

You might even identify with him. But before he runs off - this complicated man, this tortured soul - you will be moved.

With Us!

Good Friday, April 22

Easter Sunday, April 24

Community Good Friday Worship: Noon-1:00 p.m.

In the sanctuary at First United Methodist Church 303 N. Evers St, Plant City, FL

at First United Methodist Church Hot Breakfast at 8:00 a.m.

9:00 a.m. worship 11:00 a.m. Mini-Musical “He is Risen Indeed”

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF PLANT CITY 303 North Evers Street • Plant City, FL 33563 • (813) 754-3519

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

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The Power of the Cross Featuring “Because We Believe” By Marty Parks

PRESENTED BY THE MUSIC AND DRAMA MINISTRIES

and performed by “The Singing Cross”

of First Baptist Church, Dover Saturday, April 16 @ 6 PM Sunday, April 17 @ 6 PM A modern story about a woman beginning to understand how the power of the cross can affect her life…today!

For information, call 813-719-2273 3223 N. Gallagher Road, Dover, FL 62

april 2011 focusplantcity.com

The Sanctuary Choir of Lone Oak Baptist Church will present

THE DAY HE WORE MY CROWN Friday April 22, 2011 at 7:00 pm Sunday April 24, 2011 at 6:00 pm

St. Clement Catholic Church invites you to

Walk with Jesus to Easter Sunday HOLY THURSDAY SERVICES: 8am 7pm

Morning Prayer Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper Bilingual Liturgy. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament until Midnight in Cronin Hall

GOOD FRIDAY SERVICES: 8am

3pm 5pm 7pm

Morning Prayer followed by Stations of the Cross Veneration of the Cross Living Stations of the Cross Veneration of the Cross-Spanish

HOLY SATURDAY SERVICES:

(A special Easter Sunrise Service will be April 24 at 7:00 am) Everyone is invited to come and celebrate the resurrection with us.

A nursery will be provided.

3505 Lone Oak Road, Plant City, FL 33567 For more info please call 813-754-5278

10am

Blessing of Easter food and baskets Please note there will be no 4:00pm Vigil Mass on Holy Saturday 8:30pm Easter Vigil: Bilingual and lasts approximately 3hrs.

EASTER SUNDAY:

6:00am Sunrise Service Bring a lawn chair and gather in front of the Education Building.

Mass will be moved to the Church in case of inclement weather.

English 6:00am & 10:30am Spanish 8:15am & 6pm

1104 N. AlexANder St., PlANt City, Fl 33563 (OFF i-4, exit 21) (813) 752-8251 • www.stclementpc.org foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

63

The Premier Showplace for Talent in Florida

APRIL 16, 23 & 30 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

APRIL 22 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

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

APRIL 24 EASTER SUNDAY

BUFFET

Bill Haley’s Comets. They were regulars on Dick Clark’s American Bandstand, their music was featured in the film “American Graffiti” and the TV hit “Happy Days.” PJ Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds will also perform before and after the show.

MAY 6 BOBBY PALERMO

Bobby Palermo brings you a night full of humor, impersonations and high energy audience interaction.

Bobby has received numerous National Awards and has been selected Tampa Bay’s Entertainer of the Year – 2 years in row! Destiny will open and close the show.

MAY 7 LAKELAND

CRUISERS

Car lovers, you will be in Heaven when you see the array of cars on display! Classsic, Collectable, New, Old and Special Interest Vehicles will be shown from 12 Noon until 4 p.m. on the property.

MAY 8 MOTHERS

DAY BUFFET

Take mom out for this special occasion. It’s a grand buffet fit for any queen!

A grand buffet fit for Anybunny! Freshly prepared salads, seafood, beef, ham, vegetables and desserts (including chocolate fountains) and much more!

Serving times: 12 Noon, 2:30 p.m. & 5:00 p.m.

For your musical entertainment, Destiny performs.

Call to reserve your table in the Ballroom.

APRIL 29 RICHIE MERRITT

Richie Merritt, formally of the Marcels, will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room.

MAY 6 & 7 LOST IN THE 50S WITH BILL HALEY’S

COMETS

MAY 7, 13, 20 & 28 RALPH ALLOCCO

MAY 21 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, PJ Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds.

JUNE 3 COVER TO COVER

The trio covers the top hits from yesterday to today! Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

JUNE 4, 10, 17 & 25 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

& SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

MAY 14 & 27 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

JUNE 18 THE MYSTICS

The Mystics will perform their hits, including the number one “Hushabye.”

P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

A dynamite crowd pleaser!

P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

A 2-day event that will “Rock Around the Clock” & “Shake, Rattle & Roll” in the Red Rose Ballroom with

TEL: 813.752.3141

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

WWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COM

Mrs. Evelyn Madonia - Owner

business » business profile

Local Orthodontist Rallies Businesses behind Texting and Driving Awareness Campaign

notes. “Thirty states have banned texting and driving, but the issue has never made it through the Florida legislature into law. Eighteen bills relating to texting and driving were brought to Florida legislature in 2010 and were either rejected or ignored.”

When asked about the effects texting can have on driving ability, Mrs. Sheridan explains, “Texting is a visual, manual, and usciglio Orthodontics exists to create With support from local businesses as well, cognitive distraction that takes your eyes beautiful, confident smiles.

Busciglio now sponsors a social media and off the road, hands off the wheel, and mind grassroots educational movement to create off driving. According to some studies, it With offices in Brandon and Plant City, awareness about the hazards of texting and can impair reaction time as much, if not more, than drinking alcohol.” orthodontist Derek Busciglio, an Invisalign driving. A newly launched Facebook page Premier provider, promotes affordable directs viewers to a unique online video Last September, the American Journal orthodontic care for children and adults trivia competition. of Public Health released a five-year in eastern Hillsborough County. Busciglio study that showed texting and driving offers a wide variety of treatment options, On Dr. Busciglio’s micro-site (http:// caused more than 16,000 road fatalities ranging from the traditional, time-proven donttextanddrivegame.com), users answer appliances to the latest orthodontic trivia questions pertaining to and following between 2002 and 2007. With increased use of smart phones and text messaging, advancements and Invisalign.

15-second video clips about texting this statistic is expected to increase. and driving. All the while they must Furthermore, according to the Center for The highly successful practice, established respond with their mouse and keyboard Disease Control and Prevention, motor in 1973 by Derek’s father John , has earned to simulated onscreen text messages. vehicle crashes are the leading cause a reputation for its serious interest in the Players earn participation points for the health of ‘tweens and teens. This interest number of responses. Players are surprised of death in the U.S. for teenagers with minimal driving experience. has prompted Busciglio to launch an to see how much information they miss important awareness campaign he hopes when distracted by texting. Busciglio The doctor hopes this message hits will save some lives.

Orthodontics will award prizes to the top home with not only his patients, but scoring participants. with everyone on the road. “Texting and Dental health can lengthen a life.

Common sense and caution can do the Dina Sheridan, a Tampa area traffic ticket driving is an issue we all need to take very seriously,” Busciglio agreed. “I personally same. and DUI defense attorney, agrees with was rear-ended by a young lady who Dr. Busciglio that the problem needs to was driving while texting. Incidents like Because teenagers comprise a good be addressed. “Texting and driving is a these are all too common and threaten majority of his patients, Dr. Derek serious issue that, unfortunately, Florida our roadways and safety. Drivers must Busciglio hears regularly of the distracted has yet to take any stance on,” Sheridan be informed through education and driving dangers they face on the roadway.

written By: Cheryl Johnston

B

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awareness programs. I hope this campaign drives attention to the significance of this dangerous issue in and around Tampa.”

For more information or to participate in Dr. Busciglio’s texting and driving campaign, visit his Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/TheOrthoDoc or check out the video trivia game on his Rivvid Channel at http://www.rivvid.com/ channel/buscilglio-orthodontics.

Corporations and business owners interested in participating in Dr. Busciglio’s texting and driving campaign should contact Valeska Jacques at valeska@ uvium.com.

As for dental health, Busciglio’s dedicated team of highly-qualified professionals is committed to determining the treatment solution best suited for the specific orthodontic needs of its clients. For more information on Dr. Busciglio, visit http://theorthodoc.com.

Brandon Office 515 Corner St. Brandon, FL 33511 Phone: (813) 681-9473 Plant City Office 623 East Alexander St. Plant City, FL 33566 Phone: (813) 759-9474

business » edward jones

Are You an “Environmentally Conscious” Investor?

O submitted By: edward jones

n April 22, the 41st anniversary of Earth Day will be celebrated by millions of people around the world. As a global citizen, you may wish to commemorate this event by thinking of ways you can help the environment, such as boosting your recycling efforts and cutting back on your energy consumption.

But you can also contribute to a “greener” world through your investment activities.

clients for months, or even years, after it is initially generated.

Now, let’s move to another environmentally conscious aspect of investing: consolidating your accounts.

Start by listing all your financial assets, such as your bank accounts, investments, IRAs and employer-sponsored retirement plans, such as a 401(k), if you worked for a private employer, a 457(b), if you worked for a state or local government, or a 403(b), Specifically, you can take action in two if you worked for a school or other taxrelated areas: reducing your paperwork and exempt organization. By consolidating consolidating your accounts. Let’s take a as many of these accounts as possible look at both of these possibilities. with one financial services provider, you can significantly reduce the number of First, if you want to decrease your statements you receive and the paperwork investment-related paperwork, you need to you generate. take advantage of all the paperless options that have probably been made available to But the reduction of paperwork is only one you by those financial services companies benefit you’ll receive from consolidating with which you work. So, for example, accounts. You might also be able to lower you may want to choose to receive online the amount of fees you pay. And even more statements, rather than paper ones. And importantly, by placing all your financial when you make transactions, you may also assets with one financial-services provider, be able to receive online confirmations. you will be better able to follow a single, unified investment strategy. If you work Not only will online documents help save with a financial advisor, he or she will find paper, but it can also help protect you from it much easier to identify your strengths identity theft. The more paper statements, and weaknesses and help you allocate confirmations and similar items lying your investment dollars in a way that’s around, the greater the possibility of their appropriate for your retirement goals, risk being exposed to prying eyes. (In fact, if tolerance and time horizon. you do still receive paper documents, you may want to shred them soon after you’ve Earth Day only happens once a year. So reviewed the information.) take this opportunity to think about how you can do your part, through a few simple If you think you may need to produce this actions tied to your investments, to help investment-related information, possibly improve the environment we all share. to give to your tax advisor, you can always go back to your financial service provider’s This article was written by Edward web site, access the documents you need, Jones for use by your local Edward Jones and print them. Most companies make Financial Advisor. this information readily accessible to their

ld’s Fitzgeraater W ning o i t i d n o C p and Pumce Servi sured

d In Licensed an asting eH li Ju d Shane an nce 2005 si s er n ow We can beat any competitors prices on water conditioners, purifiers and pumps.

Give us a call 813-986-4999 or Shane’s cell 813-763-0343 Your water conditioner will help you save on all cleaning products and washing detergents.

When your ready to get the yellow and egg smell out of your house call us!

Established in 1995

Parrish T hreads E mbroidery &

G em S tone E mbellishment

813-752-7673 Owners Barbara Parrish and Rachel Parrish

Your official School Headquarters, Letterman Jackets, All sports bling apparel, FFA and 4 H and more.

Letterman Jackets for the following schools are available: Durant, Plant City, Strawberry Crest, and Newsome Special Ordering Available.

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

67

business » success

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.

Pay It Forward by Paying It Back: Harold’s Farm Supply Payback Program

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.

10 #

8

“Taking care of yourself has never felt better”

reasons you need massage

IMPROVES CIRCULATION

Studies show massage initiates the relaxation response. This causes blood vessels to expand, which creates more space, allowing blood to flow more freely and improving circulation.

Improved circulation can be beneficial to individuals with diabetes or those who always have cold hands and feet.

813-477-7978

Bill Burnette of Harold’s Farm Supply has always supported the youth at the festival.

“It’s all about the kids,” he exclaims. Bill and his wife, Rhonda, buy the animals at the sale and give add-ons. Rhonda is also chairman of the Lamb Show.

Christina “Nikki” Jackson MM15607 • MA23235

110 W. REYNOLDS ST., #217 • PLANT CITY, FL 68

april 2011 focusplantcity.com

E

very year hundreds of youth participate in the Florida Strawberry Festival’s Steer and Swine Show and Sale. These youth use the experiences to grow in knowledge of agriculture and raise money for different things including a college education. These are the agriculturalists of the future. They will be feeding us, training us, and supplying for our needs. Knowing this, companies and individuals come to the festival to support by buying the animals and giving donations in the form of add-ons. One man and his company wanted to find additional ways to pay-it-forward.

“You can only buy so many animals and eat so much meat,” Bill states. After brainstorming with his wife and other coworkers, Bill came up with the Pay-BackProgram.

This program gives youth a chance to get back the money spent on feed for their animals. “It’s really easy to qualify,” explains Bill. The youth exhibitor has to go to Harold’s Farm Supply and fill out an application. Then between July and the time of the show, applicants must purchase at least 85 bags of feed for a steer or 11 bags of feed for a pig from Harold’s Farm Supply. On the day of the show, the names of all who qualify are placed in a drawing, from which Bill will pull two to win.

This year’s winners were Levi Mayo for his steer and Ashlyn Gude for her pig. Mayo received $1194.73 and Gude received $322.75. Both winners’ paybacks came as an add-on through the festival, but Bill made sure to include an additional 6% to cover the deduction of an add-on.

In addition, everyone else who qualified received an add-on for participation in the Payback Program.

The program was a success and will now be an annual event. Bill enjoyed it so much he plans on adding something new each year.

Beginning in July, youngsters can visit Bill at Harold’s Farm Supply to pick-up the necessary application.

20 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

ALLCARE

REHABILITATION Dan Manfre, PT ~ President

OUTPATIENT PHYSICAL THERAPY CENTER SINCE 1990

Richard Swilley Donnie Johnson Lic EC13002274 Bonded and Insured

ElEctricity is no hobby call: 813.737.9057 FINALLY! Two local guys than can take on your nagging electrical repairs and wire your new home or business at a reasonable price!

“Richard and Donnie look forward to serving your electrical needs. With 75 years of combined experience we can make your home and business safer and leave you with confidence that the job is done correctly.

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

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

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

69

Thank You Mr. Jeff Sumner - Farm Bureau Insurance, Plant City

For buying my Grand Champion Hog at the Florida Strawberry Festival!!!

Your support of my project & the support you give to other 4H & FFa exhibitors mean so much!!! Madi Conrad & Family.

Thank You Billy Brock - Brock Construction Services, Plant City

For buying my 1st Place Hog at the Florida Strawberry Festival!!!!

I truly appreciate the support you have shown to me by purchasing my project!

Thank You so much! Anna Conrad & Family.

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Talk to your neighbors, then talk to me Courtney Paat Ins Agcy Inc Courtney Paat, Agent 1805 James Redman Pkwy, Suite 101 Plant City, FL 33563 Bus: 813-754-1725 Toll Free: 877-215-7281

APRIL IS HEARTWORM AWARENESS MONTH

Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal condition caused by parasitic worms living in the arteries of the lungs and occasionally in the right side of the heart of dogs and cats.

Here are a few Heartworm Facts: Spread by mosquitoes, heartworms are debilitating, and may even prove fatal.

See why State Farm insures more drivers than Geico and Progressive combined. Great service, plus discounts of up to 40 percent.* Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.

CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7.

*Discounts vary by states.

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, Bloomington, IL

®

All dogs are at risk, regardless of whether they are considered indoor or outdoor pets. Even dogs that are mostly indoor go outside to potty, and they tend to do so when mosquitoes are most active – morning and evening.

®

Se Habla Español

Treatment for heartworm disease is expensive and carries some risk.

Prevention is the best treatment.

It is easy, safe, effective, and affordable.

Heartworm prevention must be given monthly, and year round in Florida.

Because of the severity of the disease, heartworm testing is recommended yearly even if a dog is on heartworm prevention.

Cats can get heartworms too, so talk to Dr. Conner about feline heartworm disease and prevention.

Animal Wellness Center

USED AUTO & RV PARTS “U-PULL” or “WE PULL”

*Bring this ad and receive free yard entry*

LOETSCHER AUTO PARTS, LLC

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

( new ownership) We Buy Wrecked or Damaged Motor Homes, Trucks, & Junk Cars

813-752-3770

WWW.LOETSCHERAUTO.COM 4306 HWY 574 W.Plant City

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

71

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

Personal Injury

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.

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HOME GUIDE

Find Your New Home Today!

This is a special advertising section

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

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Kathleen Wainoris 863-608-1557 REALTOR® Notary

TEAM WAINORIS IS HERE TO HELP!!

Short sales, bank owned properties, foreclosures, short sale negotiators, REO properties, FHA qualified properties, bank approved prices.......and the list goes on and on. It almost seems like real estate has its own new language. Sound confusing?

Don’t worry.........we are here to help! Were you thinking of selling your home but were afraid because of all of the bad new you heard in the media? Do you owe more than your house is worth and were afraid that you would never be able to sell your home? Don’t worry...........we are here to help! Don’t trust just anyone to assist you with buying or selling the biggest investment of your life! Put the experience and professional training of Team Wainoris to work for you! Thinking about buying or selling? Call Team Wainoris today; we are here to help you!

WALDEN LAKE TWO STORY POOL HOME 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with upstairs loft overlooking great room. Beautiful wood staircase, family room with fireplace and so much more. Short sale: bank approved price of just $130,000.

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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.

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4 BEDROOM SHORT SALE Wonderful 4 bedroom 2 bath home off of Shepherd Road Volume ceilings, open floor plan, covered porch with fenced yard Bank approved short sale; make offer!

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Don’t miss this one! Built in 2008, this 2 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath two story condo is located in a wonderful community and is waiting for you! Enjoy an open floor plan with large kitchen, real wood cabinets, and so much more! Short sale, reduced to $69,000.

We are like the

but better 1507 S. Alexander St. Suite 101 Plant City, FL 33563

PCM

PLANT CITY M O R T G A G E

C O R P

813.707.6200

Nate,

e hard work your staff for all th d an u yo to n tio ia was never a express our apprec new home. There r ou of se We just wanted to ha rc pu s available. Great t with us during the as you were alway ns tio es qu and time you spen k as d e could not call an time that we felt w g rates. service and amazin Thanks again, Doug and Jessica

Nate Davis

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WWW.PLANTCITYMORTGAGES.COM foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

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2.7 acres of commercial property currently being utilized as a church. Building has over 3300 SF, 30+ parking spaces and convenient to town. Now $325,000.

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4 B/R, 2 BATH POOL HOME 2177 SQ FT. FEATURES GREAT ROOM W/ TRIPLE SLIDING POCKET DOORS W/ SPECTACULAR VIEW OF THE POOL! 2/2 SPLIT FLOOR PLAN. TRAY CEILINGS IN FORMAL D/R, GREAT ROOM & MASTER B/R. CERAMIC TILE IN ALL WET AREAS, KITCHEN W/ ISLAND, GARDEN TUB & HIS/ HER VANITIES IN MASTER BATH. VOLUME CEILINGS. BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPING. $225,000

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

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BRANDON BEAUTY 4BR/3.5BA plus office & split 3 CAR GARAGE! plus another 1 Car Garage all attached. Gleaming mahogany wood floors in the living room and dining room. Enormous open kitchen w/ center island & breakfast bar and opens to the large family room. Large lanai, beautiful pool in a serene setting. $325,000

EMERALD FOREST Charming 3/2 split plan w/ pool that backs up to quiet conservation area. Large lot with a fabulous backyard.

Updated modern kitchen w/ french door refrigerator/ freezer & double oven range. Formal living and dining areas plus eat in kitchen. The master bath has his & hers sinks & a relaxing garden tub. $199,900

STEP INTO LUXURY Elegant custom home. Gourmet kitchen features granite countertops, custom 42” cabinets, stainless steel appliances, double oven and much more. Oversized dining room, gas fireplace, Florida room directly off the great room. Media room complete w/ built in speaker system & bar. This home has it all and on over 1 acre. $569,000

EXECUTIVE WALDEN LAKE HOME Luxurious & Beautiful is how you would describe this custom home in the Clubhouse neighborhood of Walden Lake. 4 BD 3 BA home, 3 Car Garage, tile roof all with pool and spa overlooking the pond and golf course. Fabulous Kitchen and large family room w/gas fireplace. $289,900

ASTON WOODS BEAUTY Fabulous 4 bedroom 3 bath Pool Home in Walden Lake. This home features a formal Living & Dining Room, large Family Room w/fireplace, gleaming wood floors, huge lanai and more on a cul-de-sac. $200,000

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DELIGHTFUL HOME

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Easy Townhome/Condo Living...Location is convenient to everything. Spacious master bedroom & family room. 2nd & 3rd BR have access to their own full bath. Corian counters in the kitchen, 36” cabinets & ceramic tile floors in the foyer & wet areas. Walden Wood’s Amenities include a heated swimming pool, basketball court, BBQ areas and playground. $87,500

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This is the one you have been looking for. Beautiful 3000sq’ pool home in prestigious Aston Woods. Featuring huge 3-4 Bedrooms plus office, Great Room w/fireplace, 12’ceilings, gorgeous kitchen w/center island, 3 car garage and so much more. A Must See! $315,000

PEACEFUL COUNTRY SETTING Gorgeous 4BR, 2BA, 3+CG situated on a pond, featuring granite countertops, crown molding, custom recessed wall space, step ceiling in Master, upgraded ceramic tile, to name a few. Easy access to I-4. $275,000

BEAUTIFUL*CHARMING*WATERFRONT One look and you will fall in love with this Walden Lake home. New kitchen w/wood cabinets & quartz counter tops open to fabulous family room all with a great view. Formal living & dining rooms. Great screened lanai, huge yard on cul-de-sac. $172,500

IMMACULATE WALDEN LAKE POOL HOME 4 BD, 3 BA home w/3 Car Garage on cul-de-sac in beautiful Emerald Forest. Oversized 1/2 A lot for the whole family to enjoy. Recently painted exterior & rescreened lanai. Featuring updated appliances & gorgeous remodeled master bath. $249,900

AFFORDABLE WALDEN LAKE HOME Nice 4 Bedroom 2 Bath home in the Spring Meadow neighborhood. Featuring a Living/Dining Room combo, Large Family Room, real wood floors, and huge fenced back yard. $152,500

WALDEN LAKE PRICED TO SELL! Wonderful Walden Lake home w/ 3 Bdr/2Baths, huge great room, & dining room. Enjoy the outdoors in the extended lanai & huge fenced back yard. Move in ready! $142,500

Search for homes at www.AnotherSweetSale.com april 2011 focusplantcity.com

D E R’S C H O

ICE

US

REA

D E R’S C H O

2010

S ARD

ICE

At the last meeting, Tom Daramus and Jan Griffin reported on their evaluation of the neighborhood entries and what replanting needed to be done. Many of the entries were hit hard due to the freeze this year. As you know, a terrible storm passed through Walden Lake on March 31st, toppling trees and harming homes.

The park was closed for several days while the paths were cleared but has now been reopened. Most everything around Walden Lake is cleaned up again and the work will begin to replant some trees and redress the neighborhood entrances.

C

AW

FO

he Walden Lake Community Association Board Meetings are the third Monday of each month at 6:00 PM at the Walden Lake HOA office building on Griffin Boulevard in Walden Lake. The next meeting will be April 18th.

Meetings are open to all Walden Lake residents.

2010

Walden Lake T

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real estate » walden lake

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Review submitted By: natalie sweet

Market. Following are sales statistics from the local MLS system for the first quarter of 2011 in Walden Lake. My information is deemed to be reliable but should always be verified.

In the MLS system between January 1 and March 31, 2011, there were 20 sales in Walden Lake, including Walden Lake East. The highest priced home sold for $189,500 in Aston Woods and the lowest priced home sold in Parkwood for $70,000.

Two homes sold for under $100,000, 7 sold between $100,000 and $149,999 and 11 sold between $150,000 and $189,500.

The median sales price in Walden Lake for the first quarter 2011 was $151,098.

At the time of this writing, there were 63 Active listings and 27 listings Pending Contract.

Most of you already know that Walden Lake Golf & Country Club is in foreclosure and has been experiencing financial difficulties especially during this Marlene Merrin reported that she has been tough economy. Please be aware that sending letters regarding the enforcement the Club is trying work out a solution of deed restrictions to homeowners, with their lender. They remain open particularly on the lawns. She has received for business and golf tournaments and many excuses with the main excuse being functions. They encourage the Walden the economy.

Lake residents to consider joining the club.

The Board voted approval for the attorney Memberships are available without an to begin foreclosure proceedings on a initiation fee. The club is a very important property in Walden Lake for nonpayment component to our community and adds of the Homeowner’s Association dues. value to our homes. Stop by to learn more.

I have been asked to do a quarterly report about the Walden Lake Real Estate

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

83

APARTMENTS FOR THE ELDERLY

real estate » mortgage

One bedroom Apartments • Rent based on income

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Applications available at each location

Real EstateAfter a Bankruptcy/ Financing Short Sale D submitted By: nate davis

id you know that a Bankruptcy OR Short Sale does not require that you wait 7 years to obtain a new mortgage loan? Per the below guidelines, and assuming you have re-established your credit, you may not need to wait as long as you may think.

Waiting Periods:

84

Short Sale

VA

2 years*

FHA

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Bankruptcy-Ch 13

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Conventional 4 years

4 years

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3 years

3 years

3 years

1 year 1 year

2 years 2 years

Exceptions to all of the above timeframes may exist due to each specific scenario and extenuating circumstances. It is always best to consult a mortgage professional to evaluate your specific scenario Nate Davis – Plant City Mortgage Corp. – 813.707.6200 april 2011 focusplantcity.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

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real estate » jo-ann lusk

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LOCAL REAL ESTATE Before you buy that UPDATE foreclosure…

E submitted By: jo-ann lusk

veryone is looking for “the great bargain” when buying real estate today and it seems that there are some good deals in the foreclosure/bank-owned market. Following are a few things you might want to consider before you buy that foreclosure.

3. Don’t go over budget. Foreclosures often require some fixes so make sure you have the money to afford needed repairs. A good rule of thumb is to have at least half of the money in cash for needed repairs.

MARKET UPDATE: The Plant City real estate market has seen 1. Don’t judge a house by looks alone. A its share of peaks and valleys recently. $2 million mansion may look fabulous Since October, 2010, active listed inventory but have mold hiding beneath the walls is down 12%, but contracts have increased or need numerous, costly repairs. A more than 59%. That is a positive sign fixer upper, on the other hand, may look of a market shift. Much of the decrease rundown but have excellent bones and in active listings is attributed to the slow be repaired at a reasonable cost. A home down of foreclosures hitting the market. inspection prior to purchasing a property From February to March, there was also can help determine if you might be getting a decrease in active listings (2.5%) and a in over their head. Do not just rely on 57% increase in Sold properties, and nearly previous inspections, however, since vacant 10% increase in contracts. As of March, homes can deteriorate rapidly. the Average Sold Price was $110,000 and Average Active Price $176,000. On 2. Don’t focus on price alone. Buyers may average, sellers are getting approximately focus on the ultra-low price so much that 94% of list price. That is also a positive sign they forget to factor in other qualities, such of prices becoming stable and reasonably as the home’s school district, view, location competitive. Hopefully, a much stronger and local crime rate. Do not assume that a summer season is just over the horizon. previous owner’s financial problems cause Happy House Hunting! all foreclosures.

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Isn’t it beautiful?

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

89

sports » soccer

Lancers Claim Soccer Title The Plant City Lancers 12U Girls Capture the FYSA Region C Cup M

article By: Joe Bowles | photos courtesy of: Eric Langston

arch 20 was a big day for eleven area girls as they celebrated winning the Florida Youth Soccer Association 12-and-under regional championship when the Plant City Lancers captured their first ever Division I Region C Cup. For Head Coach Eric Langston and his assistants, Hugo Morales and Juan Navarrete, the victory was sweet because it was their first regional competition after moving up to Division I less than a year ago.

The state is divided into four regions.

Previous to the tournament, the sixteen teams in Region C were randomly placed in four pools with each pool containing four teams. Teams within their pools would play each other and pool winners would advance to the semifinal competition. Points were awarded in the following manner: five points for a win, two for a tie, and 0 for a loss. A bonus point was award

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april 2011 focusplantcity.com

the midfield. The physical defense of Ky Burroughs, Morgan Bush, Alessandra Morales, and Mariana Hernandez aided our goalkeeper Elizabeth Saucedo in putting together back to back shutouts that gave us the points we needed to advance.”

What Langston failed to say is that they were playing with only ten available players because an integral part of their team, Maria Montelongo, was not able Later that day, the Lakeland Futbol Club to compete due to a season ending knee injury incurred just a few days prior. With defeated Oldsmar United giving the Lancers, Lakeland, and Oldsmar identical eight players on the field, only two players were able to rest at a time.

2-1 records. Fortunately, the Lancers received two bonus points for their shutout The semifinal game against Braden River wins and they advanced to the semifinals scheduled for March 19. saw goalkeeper Saucedo record her third consecutive shutout 1-0 with Salma

Betancourt accounting for the Lancers According to Langston, winning their only goal after taking a pass from Ariel pool was really a team effort. “Ariel Navarrete and slamming home the winner Navarrete was a force as point striker.

Morgan Langston, Salma Betancourt, that secured the Lancers entry into the Drew Knotts, and Alex Almon dominated championship game the next day.

The Lancers drew the strongest competition in pool play and it did not look like they had a chance to advance beyond pool play after they suffered a devastating loss on February 26 in the first round to Oldsmar United 4-2. Later that day, the Plant City squad posted a shutout win against the Lakeland Futbol Club 3-0. The next day, the Lancers were able to pin a 2-0 shutout win on IMG Academy, giving them 12 points in pool play.

The finals, played on March 20, saw the Lancers pitted against the West Florida Premiere. The Lancers were able to put away West Florida with three goals while holding the Premiere to one tally. Mariana Hernandez, Morgan Langston, and Ariel Navarrete were each credited with a goal.

Elizabeth Saucedo was given the Region C team trophy for her work on goal throughout the tournament as the Lancers celebrated the victory and the Region C title.

“The girls knew it was going to be tough after losing our first game, but they never gave up and their hard work paid off,” remarked Langston after the victory.

With the win, the Lancers will advance to play in the President’s Cup against the other three region winners for the state championship.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

91

sports » athlete of the month

article By: Joe Bowles | photo by: Stephanie Humphrey

Brett Nizamoff

B

efore most Raiders’ games, you can find Brett Nizamoff leaning back in the dugout with his headphones on, listening to music. It’s his way of chilling out before he takes the mound as he calms his nerves and collects his thoughts. The Plant City lefthander is enjoying his senior season as the elder hurler of the club while he is preparing for college.

For Nizamoff, this was a dream of his ever since he began playing the game of baseball shortly after he moved to Plant City and signed up at the local Little League Park. That dream has come to fruition when a few months ago he signed a letter of intent to play at the next level for the Florida Atlantic University Owls.

“I was playing in a Perfect Game Tournament (a showcase tournament for high school players) last summer when the coach from Auburn University saw me play. I was having a pretty good game and he knew that the pitching coach from Florida Atlantic was looking for a lefthanded pitcher, so he gave him a call and that’s how I ended up at Florida Atlantic,” said Nizamoff.

Nizamoff has a fastball that is in the mid-80s range, but his breaking ball is his dominant pitch. It breaks late and leaves most batters fanning air. This year Nizamoff has also been a part of the Raiders offensive attack as their designated hitter on the nights when he’s not pitching.

In October of 2001, Nizamoff along with his parents John and Amy, and sister Tori (a freshman on the Raiders’ soccer team) moved to this area. Delta Airlines transferred John, and they made Plant City their home. It was a good decision for the family and for the high school baseball program, as well.

Nizamoff is having a good year so far. The Raiders are ranked #1 in the county and

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“

Nizamoff has a fastball that is in the mid-80s range, but his breaking ball is his dominant pitch.

”

Nizamoff is one of the reasons for their success. He sports a record of 4-1, an ERA of 2.30 with 35 strikeouts over 24 innings.

At the plate, he has also slapped three doubles and knocked in four runs.

Brett’s primary hobby is baseball. Away from the field, he loves to watch television.

He doesn’t necessarily care what’s on the tube. He also loves to be on the water. In fact, Nixamoff will bring his 3.3 GPA (4.1 weighted) with him to FAU as he seeks to major in something related to Marine Biology.

As far as the future, Nizamoff is not sure.

“I know that I’m going to play travel ball this summer. Last summer I played in the Steinbrenner tournament and only gave up four hits and two runs with a complete game. I want to compete like that again.

I’m also eager to start to college and to be on campus, but I don’t really know what to expect. The only thing I know is that I’ll be rooming with another baseball player.”

Nizamoff may not be sure about the future, but the Owls are sure about him. The Owls had one of their most successful seasons in school history posting 35 wins and an appearance in the NCAA tournament.

With Brett’s help, they are hoping for a return trip in the future.

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

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sports » Baseball team of the month

2418 James L. Redman Pkwy., Plant City, FL (813) 757-0300 article By: Joe Bowles | photo courtesy of: Seffner Christian School against no defeats with a miniscule ERA of 0.47 over 15 innings. The Crusaders also have four starters with batting averages above .300. Landon Allensworth is batting .442, Ryan Brushwood is hitting .364, and Joey Kohl has two homeruns to go along with his .303 average. All three are juniors.

The surprise of the team is eighth-grader Cameron Knight who is hitting .410 and is leading the team in RBI’s with 21.

The players come from everywhere, Tampa, Brandon, Seffner, Temple Terrace, Valrico, Lutz, and Plant City. In fact, six players, more than a third of their roster, have a Plant City address.

Playing at a small school does have its advantages. According to Saunders, a smaller school like Seffner Christian allows athletes to play multiple sports.

At most larger schools, there is one-sport specialization. It’s also a great opportunity for the young players to get experience that will pay dividends in the future. Another positive is the closeness of the Crusader community.

“Everyone knows one another. So, that closeness gives us great school spirit and tremendous support from the parents and “We’re starting to mature as a team,” said the administration,” Saunders related.

Saunders. “We took our lumps the last few years, but we now have some experience The dividends have already begun. With and it is showing.” two more district wins, the Crusaders will

be bringing home a regular season district Indeed, it has. This year the Crusaders championship. That’s important, but not have two seniors and seven juniors. That is important enough. You see, Saunders is not the most upperclassmen they have had on trying to raise championship banners; he’s their roster in the past six years. The older trying to raise boys. boys are leading and the younger ones are capable followers.

Other Crusaders include Josh Gude, Tyler

Bolt, Nahshon Benoit, Derrick Smith, One of those leaders is Saunders’ son Caleb Saunders, Tanner Richardson, Colt Garrett. The junior right-hander sports an Pollesch, John Michael Byrd, Evan West, ERA of 0.75 over 28 innings while picking Caleb Gude, and Patrick Dohrenwend. up five wins against no losses. He is joined by junior Jake Sullivan, who has two wins

Baseball Team of the month Seffner Christian Crusaders W hen Johnny Saunders, the head coach at Seffner Christian High School, spoke at a dinner before the season began, he borrowed a quote from Hall of Famer Harmon Killebrew to emphasize his purpose as a coach.

“My father used to play with my brother and me in the yard,” said Killebrew. “And mother would come out and say, ‘You’re tearing up the grass.’ Dad would reply, ‘We’re not raising grass. We’re raising boys.’”

“That is what we’re trying to do here at Seffner Christian,” said Saunders. “We’re

trying to raise boys. We tell the parents, we’re here to help mold character in your kids. It’s not all about statistics. It’s about developing young men.”

For Saunders and his three-man coaching staff, Rick Smith, Damon Sullivan, and Don Allensworth, that is exactly what they are trying to do, but that doesn’t mean they have abandoned their goal of developing baseball players as well. They have been successful at both this year. With a 9-5 record over the first half of the season, the Crusaders are in first place in their district and have recorded two wins over last year’s district champion and nemesis, Bradenton Christian.

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

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HAUGHT FUNERAL HOME Serving Plant City and East Hillsborough County

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708 W. Dr. M.L. King Jr. Blvd. • Plant City Fl. 33563 Haught Funeral Home is family owned and operated. Timothy J. Haught has been a licensed Funeral Director since 1973 and a resident of Plant City since 1952.

For 10 years Haught Funeral Home has been assisting families during their lossof a loved one with internment in these area cemetaries: Antioch Bethlehem Hopewell Memorial Gardens Hopewell Church Cemetary Pelote

Oaklawn Memorial Park Mt. Enon Springhead Shiloh Tim is married to Jo Carpenter who is a native of Plant City.

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TIM & JO HAUGHT

extra » senior of the month

Lee Marie Bocanegra senior of the month

Ivan Gutierrez senior of the month Written By: Brooke Allie

universities. Gutierrez feels these experiences have helped him prepare for the next step.

Written By: Brooke Allie This is an informative event about graduation requirements offered to migrant students and their parents. At this meeting she will also be dancing with her church’s dance group.

L

ee Marie Bocanegra, a senior at Plant City High School, pairs academic drive with a strong knowledge of her culture - qualities which have led her to be a great representative of her community.

Ranked tenth in her class and with a 6.05 GPA, Bocanegra is a perfect representative of a dedicated academic. Due to her excellence at school she has been inducted into two honor societies, National Honor Society and National Technical Honor Society. She has also earned a school letter in academics.

Bocanegra is known for taking pride in her Hispanic heritage. She is currently the president of the Latin Quarters club at PCHS, one in which Hispanic students come together to celebrate their heritage. With Latin Quarters she volunteers at the MPAC (Migrant Parent Advisory Committee).

The St. Clement dance group displays the cultural dances of Hispanic heritage at many events throughout the year and members like Bocanegra take time to learn the dances and share them with the community.

“It’s a great way to showcase our culture to the community in a fun and entertaining way,” says Bocanegra.

She also spends time at Simmons Career Center teaching these dances to other students.

St. Clement Catholic Church has also provided Bocanegra with an appreciation for community service. This past year she volunteered as a “shortcake girl” at the St. Clement Strawberry Shortcake booth for five of ten days at the Strawberry Festival.

She has also been an active member of the St. Clement youth group for all four years of high school. She credits this group for helping her to mature and stay on track through her time at PCHS. Next year, Bocanegra will pursue a degree in mechanical engineering at the University of South Florida, where she has already been accepted into the engineering program. With the progress she has already made, Bocanegra is on the fast track to success.

As corresponding secretary of student council, Gutierrez spends quite a bit of time earning community service hours. Each week, PCHS student council travels to Walden Lake Elementary to volunteer with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. Gutierrez thoroughly enjoys making the weekly trip to see his little brother and says he has seen improvement all across the board since they began the program.

“I

may not have everything, but I won’t stop until I do.” said Ivan Gutierrez, a driven senior at Plant City High School. Gutierrez is constantly looking for ways to push the envelope and improve his skill sets with activities in which he participates.

Additionally, with student council he participates in a mentoring program at the high school. At least twice a week the class mentors their peers and pushes them to pursue leadership roles and to keep up their grades.

Gutierrez is also an active participant in Action Team, a service club for students all across the Tampa Bay area.

Currently they are making bracelets to support the Autism walk in April.

Due to his active role at PCHS and his outgoing personality, Gutierrez has received many honors and awards. As a junior he was named Mr. July in the Calendar Guy pageant and as a senior he was voted to be a senior superlative and a member of the senior homecoming court.

Leading plays a major role in this hunger to grow. Gutierrez has been the class president at PCHS for the past two years as well as being a member in student council. These two organizations push Gutierrez to keep continuity within his leadership. They provide Gutierrez showcases this charisma on stage him constant and challenging opportunities at PCHS. He has been involved in many such as organizing senior class information productions at PCHS including the Wizard and activities. of Oz, Seussical the Musical where he had Gutierrez is also the historian of Eco Club, a a leading role and will soon perform in the first year club at PCHS dedicated to keeping upcoming production of Odd Couple. a clean community. He has even played a part in installing recycling bins throughout the high school. He is also historian of AVID, a club that assists students in college preparation. He’s been a member of AVID since his freshman year and through the organization has visited many Florida

In the coming years Gutierrez plans to attend the University of Central Florida or Valencia Community College to study pre-law with a minor in business. For this future lawyer, success certainly won’t be an argument.

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

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How often do you get pedicures? Are your heals dry, thick, and rough? It’s time to treat yourself to a nice pedicure!

Ku’tur offers different kinds of pedicure, each may be suited for individuals needs. Have your heals been razored or know someone who goes to a salon where a razor is used to remove callus? According to the Florida Board of Cosmetology, it is illegal for salons and nail technicians to carry and use Credor razors for the removal of callus built-up on the bottom of your feet. Razors cut and remove callus in uneven layers, which results in more callus growth and rougher feet. It is only for temporary relief but will worsen the condition when it grows back. At Ku’tur, a callus remover treatment can be added to your pedicure for smoother and softer heals. You will never get cuts and you will see improvement with proper maintenance from there on after.

Shellac your toes for Spring Now! Your toes will stay flawless and glossy, without any chipping for at least a month! Be beach, pool, and flawlessly ready for Spring!

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

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extra » al reuchel don’t put them in perspective or feel it’s necessary to worry about them, because at least worrying about them is Doing something about them.

The problem gets even worse because in our society we always want things boiled down to the best case and worst case scenarios. Here are the winners and losers.

Here is what might or could happen if……

The media catches a lot of heat for doing the same thing. People do tend to react to emotions rather than raw statistics. Some go as far as to say some outlets thrive off of the old “could it happen here?” syndrome.

And, it is true that when events take on a certain sense of urgency more people do pay attention.

But I’m no fan of fear. I like looking at a problem or an event head on, and, if necessary all holding hands until we get through it. Sure, I am the perpetual optimist and always see the glass half full. There’s always a brighter tomorrow.

Failure is the first step to success. Big breakthroughs come when least expected.

Perfect love casts out all fear.

So what should take the place of fear?

Knowledge. In a world that likes the instant answer, that wants an 8-second sound bite to a two paragraph explanation, it is important to evaluate all events and all viewpoints to get comfortable with the consequences of doing nothing, taking action, or sitting on the sidelines like Chicken Little. No, this isn’t about our national debt… or is it?

Balancing Fear with Fact I Written By: Al Reuchel

t was one of those watershed events we will not easily forget. A huge dark wall of water and debris sweeping away entire villages and cities in Japan. The video was so stunning you were tempted to say this must be some Hollywood disaster film. To put a number on it was meaningless because it didn’t matter.

We all knew thousands had been killed

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and it would only get worse as the days progressed.

Then we saw those eerie videos of the Fukushima power plant blowing up, the walls of the containment build shattered like they were made of balsa. Radiation from the plant was detected in Chicago and L.A. and even New York. Yes, it was a tiny amount, barely measurable, no threat

If your personal budget isn’t working for you then cut spending or get another job.

If you afraid you are getting overweight then exercise and change your diet. If you don’t like a TV program or think there’s too much bad news in the world, change the channel and find something positive in which to pour your life.

Be an adult. Ouch, that hurt. Stop acting like a spoiled child, take some of that bad medicine for the long term gain.

Stop consuming for half a second and be Here’s the problem with any of those content with what you have. Some call HUGE events. We run out of words to this tough love. I call it kicking fear to the describe them. The same is true with bad weather and hurricanes. It’s even true with curb and replacing it with the fact that you budget deficits and government shutdowns are alive, you can still make choices, and life, no matter how difficult it may have and the outsides of 737 peeling apart in become… is well worth the living. flight. The events generate their own level of apprehension because we either to humans or animals.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

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extra » derek maul back my right foot and struck the ball with confidence, anticipating that old familiar rush before standing back to witness my handiwork. The ball barely reached the goalie, dropping softly into his waiting hands.

Connection: Then it was the sharing of stories, catching up, re-telling old tales, talking about our lives and our work and our children and our mutual friends. We talked on the field, we talked out in the parking lot, and we talked back in the locker room.

Conversation carried over to a favorite watering hole, and we all got together in the evening, chatting and laughing and eating, long into the night.

I noticed something interesting. We shared stories, and we talked about life at Stetson in the 70s, but what really reconnected us was the fact that we’re complete, wellrounded people with vibrant lives today, in 2011.

Fact is, while we had fun 33 years ago, and we have the camaraderie of a shared experience, I like the middle-aged version of these guys even more!

They’re concerned parents, committed community leaders, loving husbands and cutting-edge professionals. They’re thoughtful and intelligent, and they hold deep convictions. Some are men of deep personal faith; all are guided by values rooted in a profound social conscience and a genuine concern for the world.

Old Memories H

ere’s a true statement: If you want to know that you are really middle-aged on your 55th birthday, then arrange to spend the afternoon playing soccer with one of the best college teams in Florida.

No, scratch that, I can go one better. How about reassemble your college soccer team from the late 1970s, then get on the field and play against a bunch of 20-year-olds on one of the best college teams in Florida.

Do you have that image? Are your knees starting to hurt now just thinking about it? Mine certainly are. Last week my knee kind of crumpled at the grocery store and I went down. A searing pain drilled itself into the joint and I grabbed at a shelf to

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and New Knee Pain Written By: derek maul

stay upright; then I started to giggle.

“Are you OK?” a woman asked. “And why are you laughing?”

“Long story,” I said. “I’ll just say, ‘IT WAS SO WORTH IT!’” Homecoming: I don’t typically go to reunions. But a few months ago an email circulated players from my era (1976-1979). Someone suggested we play the alumni game. Over a dozen of my team showed up. Graciously, the younger alums let us take the field together.

Imagine the scene. A bunch of 50-somethings facing off against Stetson

University! Mark said, “Look at them!

Were we ever that ripped?” Then someone pointed out that “ripped” had an entirely different meaning in the 70s!

We had a blast! And we actually lasted 15-20 minutes - which is a long time in a game that’s fairly relentless when it comes to movement.

Reality: My definitive moment came ten-minutes in. I got the ball, made a decent move, and found myself in space with the goalie off his line. It was as if I was transported 33 years back in time, poised and in complete control of the game. I faked left, slid to the right, looked up and measured the topspin chip that would flight the ball gracefully over the keeper and into the net. I pulled

Conclusion: I hadn’t seen my friends in well over thirty years, and I may never meet them again.

But I left the party Saturday night with renewed optimism about the world and our future.

I’ve never been a pessimist, but there’s no better antidote for night after night of bad news from around this war-torn globe than re-connecting with an otherwise random collection of guys and realizing this Earth is populated with so many good, decent, generous people.

So thanks, Gary, Chuck, Mike, Bob, Mark, other Mark, Maz, Eddie, other Bob, Steve, Marvin, Paul and Pepe. Thanks not only for “the memories”, but also for the belief.

And thanks, simply, for being. Your friend, who wishes you every blessing, grace, peace, hope and promise - DEREK

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Eat Better. Love Life. Live Longer. foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

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extra » Auto Review

Talk. Touch. Drive.

T

he Ford Explorer was first introduced some 20 years ago. Although Ford has made changes over the years, they pale in comparison to the redesign for 2011. The new Explorer makes up for all the past shortfalls. It’s everything we’ve wanted the Explorer to be, and then some.

The first difference to point out is the chassis. For 2011, Ford has finally transitioned the Explorer from a truck chassis to a car chassis. They’ve also changed from rear-wheel to front-wheel drive. Many that have expressed their dislike over the front-wheel drive change, but those are simply traditionalists. The handling is so much better. Front-wheel drive vehicles pull through curves, rather than push, which is so much more precise

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and efficient. And with a 290hp 3.5L TiVCT (twin independent variable camshaft timing) V6 engine, coupled with a 6-speed transmission, the Explorer has all the power needed – more horse power than any other V6 in its class.

2011 Ford Explorer Delivers submitted By: Brian West in your pocket, as you place your hand in the door knob, the Explorer unlocks the doors. Once seated, just push the engine start button and you’re ready to go. And when you exit the vehicle, a nice safety feature during darkness; provides down lighting from the underside of the side view mirrors, and the interior lights stay on. Everything dims out after about 20 seconds.

The entire exterior is new. The front grill is more closed, the hood has a more pronounced stance, the side panel contours provide a strong look, and the overall width has increased. All this combines for The electronics really take this Explorer a stout and stable look. It’s very appealing. to a whole new level. The dashboard is entirely electronic and customizable.

Using a combination menu system and Once you climb inside, the differences are even more dramatic. The additional width color coding, the driver can customize which components will be viewed. There makes the interior noticeably larger, and the spacing of the front seats have created are no buttons or levers to push. This is more shoulder and elbow room. There are 21st century technology. Everything is touch and/or voice controlled, with the no keys, only a key fob. With the key fob

lone exception of the controls on the steering wheel. Ford is also introducing their MyFord Touch system. It allows voice controls for making phone calls, setting the climate temperature and many, many other commands. Think of it as Ford’s effort to provide complete control of all the functions, without the risks associated with taking your hands off the steering wheel or your eyes off the road.

The 2011 Ford Explorer is one of the nicest vehicles I’ve driven in a long while, and there are so many other great things about the Explorer. There’s no reason the 2011 update shouldn’t be flying off the lot.

Others will be hard pressed to compete with this Ford product.

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t Women’s Care we continue to grow to meet the needs of the women in the community. Our Brandon location is open late on Tuesday evenings to help you tackle your hectic schedule.

If you are ready for permanent contraception or you suffer from heavy periods, we provide in-office and minimally invasive surgery options, including DaVinci® Robotic Surgery.

We now offer FREE Pregnancy tests for women ages 18 and older at our Lithia, Plant City and Gibsonton locations.

Vaccinations couldn’t be more convenient. We offer Hepatitis A & B and Tetanus vaccinations at all four of our locations.

With all of our added conveniences for women, shouldn’t the new face at Women’s Care be yours?

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

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foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

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entertainment » dining profile Photo by Kristen Oliver

Photo by Kristen Oliver

Photo by Kristen Oliver

Chili’s I

written By: John Ross

n FOCUS Magazine’s hometown of Plant City, we didn’t want to overlook the opportunity to review the local Chili’s on Highway 39. This month we stopped over and gorged ourselves on the best stuff Chili’s has to offer.

For appetizers we ate the Fire Grilled Corn Guacamole, made with fresh avocados, cilantro, house-made pico de gallo, fire-grilled corn and jalapeños.

Guacamole lovers, here you go. The guacamole at Chili’s is ultra fresh. The ingredients effectively turned quality Manager Kim sat us at a brightly lit mosaic guacamole into luxurious guacamole, with glass table and suggested we try a few of a hint of spice. The chips held on for dear the restaurant’s most popular items. life as I made them break through the pasty mixture. Chunk after chunk of this First up, we were served the restaurant’s stuff was definitely a good thing. most popular drink, the Margarita Presidente. It came rimmed with salt Everyone loves Chili’s salsa. Thinly rocks in a clear blue margarita glass with chopped yet thick enough to never run, a shaker full of refills for the drink. After it has just the right amount of spice. Just drinking the first glass, I used the shaker to don’t get too full on the chips and salsa refill the glass three more times; it was very before you get one of Chili’s’ entrees! cool to feel like the drink simply wouldn’t end, and that you could refill your own As a second appetizer we had the large drink. Not bad for $7.29. As good mixed order of the Classic Nachos. It comes in drinks taste, it was mixed so the alcohol either chicken or beef, so we got half of was evident, but ultimately the fruit and each. First, this is a hearty appetizer that saltiness won us over. would be great for a large party along with

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the chips and salsa. Next, you might know how well Chili’s does chicken (for those who’ve had the Chicken Crispers) and you get the same juicy, tender quality here. At first sight, it seemed like a mountain of cheese piled high over a bunch of nachos encircling sour cream and guacamole, but after we bit into them it became clear there was ample meat on each one.

From the portion sizes, we thought we’d already had it after the appetizers, and then Johnnie hit us with a full rack of ribs.

Perhaps the thickest I’ve ever seen, (over an inch deep), they were sticking over the edge of the plate and completely rubbed over in mild BBQ sauce. When I picked one of the slabs up to break a rib off, the meat almost fell off right then- indeed, if all I had to chew with were my gums, I could have still finished the whole slab in 15 minutes (assuming I wasn’t already stuffed from appetizers). Chili’s makes their ribs as tender as their Chicken Crispers. Somehow.

The Fajita Trio struck a new fajita chord.

The dish came with lots of garlic and lime shrimp, chicken, and grilled steak slices atop sautéed peppers and onions. The best part of the dish was the variety, and there was a big portion of the variety to be had.

Come out to Chili’s and get something mentioned in this review for a tasty look at what Chili’s is famous for. Happy dining.

Chili’s 3001 James L Redman Pkwy Plant City, FL 33566 (813) 764-8548 Mon - Thu: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM Fri - Sat: 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM Sun: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

» dining guide

special advertisement

813 chinese food

8

13 Chinese may be new to Plant City, but they come with years of experience. From the same owners of China One (seven time winner of Best Asian food in Plant City) comes 813, a conveniently located Chinese cuisine next to the Publix on James Redman Pkwy.

Enjoy your favorites from General Tso’s to egg drop soup made from the best family recipes in town!

2204 James L Redman Pkwy Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-6888

asian chen CHINESE BUFFET

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. FridaySaturday 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

LUNCH $ 5.75 • DINNER $6.95 • SENIORS GET FREE DRINK DINNING ORDER FROM MENU SALAD BAR FOR FREE.

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

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 foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

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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

mi casa

M

i Casa Mexican Restaurant is a family-owned restaurant dedicated to serving the finest foods and atmosphere of Mexico and the Southwest.

We serve lunch and dinner, and proudly feature Fajitas, Enchiladas, Tacos, Burritos, Quesadillas, Chiles Rellenos and Chimichangas, as well as other specialties of the house. In addition, we offer a wide variety of margaritas, beer and drinks to accompany your favorite meal. And best of all, at prices that are affordable to almost anyone. We’ve been voted Best Mexican by the Focus RCA awards five years in a row!

2613 Thonotosassa Rd Plant City, FL 813-752-0057• www.micasamex.com

Milly’s Hot Dogs

T

he menu on the wall features 18 different combo baskets, such as the above Authentic Chicago Dog, the Swiss Dog, the Cheese & Kraut Dog, Polish Sausage, Chili Cheese, and others. The baskets include a bag of chips, a pickle spear, and a choice side of home-made macaroni salad, baked beans, or cole slaw.

111 south Collins St Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 764-8888 Open Mon – Sat 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Closed Sundays

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

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» dining guide

special advertisement

Plant City Hometown Buffet

P

lant City Hometown Buffet is a family owned and operated business started by Elaine Vo, a resident of Plant City for the last 24 years.

They offer a wide variety of items spanning the five buffet bars, including seafood and steak. There is certainly something to fit every taste preference, especially if you’re looking for seafood with their catfish, stuffed crab, buttered shrimp and much, much, more.

1914 James L Redman Parkway plant city, fl 33563 813-754-4488

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

entertainment » artist of the month

Susan Overbo H Article and photos By: Heather Davis

ave you ever been so inspired by something you see in life that you feel the desire to capture and preserve the image?

For photographer Susan Overbo the motivating factor of wanting to capture images that thrill her is the main purpose behind creating her photographs. Susan’s true source of joy comes from finding inspiration in nature. She acknowledges that for her, nature has always been a place to find solace and peace.

Her love of photography first began in college when she started experimenting with her Canon SLR. Susan has since moved onto using digital cameras where she finds the whole creative process fascinating, beginning with the act of finding and capturing the image, and then manipulating the photos through a digital darkroom in Photoshop. Throughout the whole process, Susan is constantly amazed that the images she is able to create sometimes surpass what she originally imagined.

Having the desire to share her photography with others, Susan has recently begun to participate

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in various art shows in Plant City, such as the Arts in the Park at Walden Lake and the Plant City Downtown Art Walk in collaboration with the Art Lounge Gallery. Recently a black and white photographic image of a beautiful flower created by Susan won “Best in Show” at the Florida State Fair, garnishing much praise and commendation.

Never one to stay still, Susan has lived in and experienced the world as a missionary and teacher. She has had the opportunity to live in France for one year and in Africa for two years. As a teacher she has also lived and worked on the Hopi Indian reservation in Arizona, where she taught ten little Indian children. Eventually because of illness due to travel, she settled down from traveling and has remained a teacher and tutor while raising her children here in Plant City.

It is evident from viewing the photographic images Susan Overbo creates that she has deep appreciation and gratitude for all of creation and nature.

EILEEN COLLINS • LIL’ KIM • MARION JONES • DREW BARRYMORE • LOUISE BOURGEOIS • HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON • THE GIRLS CHOIR OF HARLEM • PATTI SMITH • ALICE WATERS • MADELEINE ALBRIGHT • ELIZABETH TAYLOR • SERENA WILLIAMS • VENUS WILLIAMS • CARLY FIORINA • ANN RICHARDS • ANNA DEAVERE SMITH • SIGOURNEY WEAVER • CLAUDIA J. KENNEDY • THE WEST SIDE CRIPS • DIANE SAWYER • BETTY FORD • JACKIE JOYNER-KERSEE • MARTINA NAVRATILOVA • COURTNEY LOVE • MARTHA STEWART • KATHERINE GRAHAM • BARBARA BUSH • MAYA LIN • HEIDI FLEISS • NICOLE KIDMAN • EUDORA WELTY • BARBARA BOXER • YOKO ONO • PIA GETTY • ALEXANDRA VON FURSTENBERG • PRINCESS MARIE CHANTAL • THE WALLENDAS • JERRY HALL • SUSAN SARANDON • FRANCES MCDORMAND • GWYNETH PALTROW • BLYTHE DANNER • CHAMIQUE HOLDSCLAW • ELLEN DEGENERES • ROSIE O’DONNELL • MELISSA ETHERIDGE • RENÉE FLEMING • CHRISTINA RICCI • BROOKE ASTOR • JONI MITCHELL • WILMA MANKILLER • GLORIA STEINEM • NATALIE PORTMAN • RUTH BADER GINSBURG • SANDRA DAY O’CONNOR • TONI MORRISON • CHRISTIANE AMANPOUR • EILEEN COLLINS • LIL’ KIM • MARION JONES • DREW BARRYMORE • LOUISE BOURGEOIS • HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON • THE GIRLS CHOIR OF HARLEM • PATTI SMITH • ALICE WATERS • MADELEINE ALBRIGHT • ELIZABETH TAYLOR • SERENA WILLIAMS • VENUS WILLIAMS • CARLY FIORINA • ANN RICHARDS • ANNA DEAVERE SMITH • SIGOURNEY WEAVER • CLAUDIA J. KENNEDY • THE WEST SIDE CRIPS • DIANE SAWYER • BETTY FORD • JACKIE JOYNER-KERSEE • MARTINA NAVRATILOVA • COURTNEY LOVE • MARTHA STEWART • KATHERINE GRAHAM • BARBARA BUSH • MAYA LIN • HEIDI FLEISS • NICOLE KIDMAN • EUDORA WELTY • BARBARA BOXER • YOKO ONO • PIA GETTY • ALEXANDRA VON FURSTENBERG • PRINCESS MARIE CHANTAL • THE WALLENDAS • JERRY HALL • SUSAN SARANDON • FRANCES MCDORMAND • GWYNETH PALTROW • BLYTHE DANNER • CHAMIQUE HOLDSCLAW • ELLEN DEGENERES • ROSIE O’DONNELL • MELISSA ETHERIDGE • RENÉE FLEMING • CHRISTINA RICCI • BROOKE ASTOR • JONI MITCHELL • WILMA MANKILLER • GLORIA STEINEM • NATALIE PORTMAN • RUTH BADER GINSBURG • SANDRA DAY O’CONNOR • TONI MORRISON • CHRISTIANE AMANPOUR • EILEEN COLLINS • LIL’ KIM • MARION JONES • DREW BARRYMORE • LOUISE BOURGEOIS • HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON • THE GIRLS CHOIR OF HARLEM • PATTI SMITH • ALICE WATERS • MADELEINE ALBRIGHT • ELIZABETH TAYLOR • SERENA WILLIAMS • VENUS WILLIAMS • CARLY FIORINA • ANN RICHARDS • ANNA DEAVERE SMITH • SIGOURNEY WEAVER • CLAUDIA J. KENNEDY • THE WEST SIDE CRIPS • DIANE SAWYER • BETTY FORD • JACKIE JOYNER-KERSEE • MARTINA NAVRATILOVA • COURTNEY LOVE • MARTHA STEWART • KATHERINE GRAHAM • BARBARA BUSH • MAYA LIN • HEIDI FLEISS • NICOLE KIDMAN • EUDORA WELTY • BARBARA BOXER • YOKO ONO • PIA GETTY • ALEXANDRA VON FURSTENBERG • PRINCESS MARIE CHANTAL • THE WALLENDAS • JERRY HALL • SUSAN SARANDON • FRANCES MCDORMAND • GWYNETH PALTROW • BLYTHE DANNER • CHAMIQUE HOLDSCLAW • ELLEN DEGENERES • ROSIE O’DONNELL • MELISSA ETHERIDGE • RENÉE FLEMING • CHRISTINA RICCI • BROOKE ASTOR • JONI MITCHELL • WILMA MANKILLER • GLORIA STEINEM • NATALIE PORTMAN • RUTH BADER GINSBURG • SANDRA DAY O’CONNOR • TONI MORRISON • CHRISTIANE AMANPOUR • EILEEN COLLINS • LIL’ KIM • MARION JONES • DREW BARRYMORE • LOUISE BOURGEOIS • HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON • THE GIRLS CHOIR OF HARLEM • PATTI SMITH • ALICE WATERS • MADELEINE ALBRIGHT • ELIZABETH TAYLOR • SERENA WILLIAMS • VENUS WILLIAMS • CARLY FIORINA • ANN RICHARDS • ANNA DEAVERE SMITH • SIGOURNEY WEAVER • CLAUDIA J. KENNEDY • THE WEST SIDE CRIPS • DIANE SAWYER • BETTY FORD800 • JACKIE JOYNER-KERSEE East Palmetto Street • MARTINA LakelandNAVRATILOVA • COURTNEY LOVE • MARTHA STEWART • KATHERINE GRAHAM T 863.688.7743 www.PolkMuseumofArt.org • BARBARA BUSH • MAYA LIN • HEIDI FLEISS • NICOLE KIDMAN • Art WELTY • Education • Events • • Store EUDORA • BARBARA BOXER • YOKO ONO PIA GETTY • ALEXANDRA VON FURSTENBERG • PRINCESS MARIE CHANTAL • THE WALLENDAS • JERRY HALL • SUSAN SARANDON • FRANCES Magazine Plant City april 2011 MCDORMAND • GWYNETH foCUS PALTROW • BLYTHE DANNER • CHAMIQUE HOLDSCLAW • ELLEN DEGENERES • ROSIE O’DONNELL • MELISSA ETHERIDGE • RENÉE FLEMING • CHRISTINA RICCI •

Polk Museum of Art

ANNIE LEIBOVITZ: Large/Xtra Large Pizza

garlic knots

Drink/Sandwich/Sub

Salad

dine in or take out

with any dinner dine in or take out

with any Sandwich or Sub

Dine In or Take Out

Must present coupon at time of purchase. Not to be combined with other offers. One coupon per visit, per order. Exp 5/15/11)

Must present coupon at time of purchase. Not to be combined with other offers. One coupon per visit, per order. Exp 5/15/11)

$2 off any pizza 6 Free Garlic Knots Free Small Drink $1 off any salad Excludes Cheese Only Pizza Must present coupon at time of purchase. Not to be combined with other offers. One coupon per visit, per order. Exp 5/15/11)

2010 FOCUS

Must present coupon at time of purchase. Not to be combined with other offers. One coupon per visit, per order. Exp 5/15/11)

Thank You For Voting Us Best Cuban

6 :30am to 10 :00am

Open For Breakfast!

Terrific Breakfast at Terrific Price!

Sausage Gravy and Biscuits Meat, Egg and Cheese breakfast Cuban Premium Coffee 12oz. 70¢ plus tax For Lunch....Large sandwich menu Authentic Cuban Sandwiches (pressed on request) Extreme Fresh Salads Homemade Spanish Bean Soup Hand made Shakes

ates and Gif t Certific Available Part y Trays

Busy? Pick up your Cuban Sandwich ANYTIME!

1505 N. Wheeler St. Plant City, FL 33566 Open Monday–Saturday 6:30am–5pm • Closed Sunday

813-752-3779

You can View our Menu online at www.Thestrawberryhut.com

FREE 12 oz. coffee STRAWBERRY HUT NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. EXPIRES 5/16/11

Buy Any Breakfast Sandwich, Get 2nd One

1/2 OFF STRAWBERRY HUT

OF EQUAL OR LESSER VALUE. EXPIRES 5/16/11

WOMEN April 2 - June 26, 2011 Exhibition-related merchandise available in the Museum Shop

Exhibition Sponsors: The Muses Mrs. George W. Truitt through PMoA’s Annual Exhibition Fund

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To Replace or Service… now is a great time to call Payne!

If your current system is 8-years old, a new energy-efficient Carrier air conditioner can save you big on monthly cooling costs. For a limited time, you can purchase one with combined savings up to $1,900!*

Special Offer

$10 Off

Regular Maintenance or Service

4 Instant Carrier Rebate................up to $1,350 4 Lakeland Electric Rebate ..........up to $ 250 4 Federal Tax Credit ........................up to $ 300

Expires 6/31/11

“We’re There When You Need Us” Mon-Fri 8AM-8PM • Sat 8AM-5PM

Serving Central Florida For 75 Years

*Offer expires 6/31/11. Call Payne for details on offer and qualifying euipment for rebates and tax credit.

863-686-6163 • www.payneair.com

CAC057909

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

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Wood Grain, Vinyl and Laminate are now offered by Williford Flooring Company in addition to our great selection of Hardwood Flooring

Monday - Friday 9-5:30 Saturday and evenings by appointment

863-858-5612

4820 Hwy 98 N • Mayflower Plaza • Lakeland, FL lwillfloor@verizon.net 120

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Since 1946

www.willifordflooring.com

CoWboYS WESTERN WoRLD

hoURS:

g i r l s •MO N-SAT and C o w

10-7 • SUN 11-5

Where The Cowboys Shop.

120 S.R. 60 E. • Plant City, FL 33567 • 813-737-3259

www.cowboyswesternworld.com

RCA Awards best Steak Easter buffet Taking Reservations

Mother’s Day Specials Free Rose & glass of house Wine. Chocolate Lava Cake, Raspberry, Chocolate or White Chocolate Sauces 7oz Filet Asian Chicken w/Rice Pilaf Salmon w/Lemon butter

$9.99 RIbS

MoNDAY NIghTS

KIDS UNDER 10

S: hoUR 0pm

EAT FREE ALL DAY TUESDAY

1 11 am a-ys a weekN 7 AdLOON OPEM S

7PM

(One child per adult)

hospitality Night in Saloon

- 3A

1/2 Drinks in bar 10pm - close & KARAoKE WEDNESDAY NIghTS

g i r ls

and C o w

Where The Cowboys Eat.

120 S.R. 60 E. • Plant City, FL 33567 • 813-650-8888

www.cowboyswesternworld.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

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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

Saturday, April 16

» 3rd Annual Tribute to Life Golf Tournament Registration 7:30AM Shotgun Start 8:30AM Followed by lunch, awards and raffle Walden Lake Golf and Country Club, 2001 Clubhouse Drive For more information: 813-244-2381 » Strawberry Classic Car Show 4 PM Downtown Plant City For more information call 754-3707

Thursday, April 21

» Business After Hours Hosted

by Mango Cleaners 5:15PM » Heart Saver CPR 5PM to 6PM South Florida Baptist Hospital For more information: 443-2041

Friday, April 22 » Good Friday

» MTC Spring Clean Up Days in Plant City 8:30am - 1pm MTC Plant City Spring Clean.

Please consider being a volunteer and coming out for half a day of yard work for those we serve. Drinks, snacks and lunch provided to all volunteers. If you are able to make a donation for flowers, mulch, food or paint it would be greatly appreciated. Counts as community service hours for high school students.

Call Veronica Prostko for more information 870-1300

Saturday, April 23

» “Adopt a Mother for Mother’s Day” Benefit Concert St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church 108 S. Warnell Street For more information please call Karen Williams 305-5241 » Planes, Trains & Automobiles 10AM -3PM Plant City Airport, 4007 Airport Road For More information contact: The Chamber of Commerce 754-3707

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Sunday, April 24 » Easter

Tuesday, April 26

» Plant City Pops “Salute to our Troops” Sponsored by the Arts Council. $15 admission students free with ID. Pre-concert reception 6:30 pm, $10 Adults Only Trinkle Center - HCC PC Campus For more information call 863-688-3743 or 813-754-1578

Saturday, April 30

» It’s That Happy Spring Thing Arts & Crafts Bluegrass Festival. Food & merchandise vendors. Treasure hunt. Children Activities.

Historic Downtown Plant City Free admission & parking.

Friday, May 27

» Veteran’s Memorial Commemorative Brick laying ceremony 11:30AM Veteran’s Memorial Monument Park at Courier Field For more information: Corinne Futch 813-7546680

» ONGOING EVENTS: Red Rose Inn and Suites Ongoing Events: Red Rose Inn & Suites - Every Monday Learn to Dance with Susan 7 to 9 PM. 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)

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 palates! Music from Free Time Jazz.

Red Rose Inn & Suites - Every Thursday 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.!

Strawberry Square, 4401 Promenade Blvd., Plant City A full schedule of Square and Round Dancing is happening every day at Strawberry Square.

We have many callers and cuer’s on the schedule.

Visit our website: www. strawberrysquaredancing.com or call the office: 813-752 0491 for dates and times.

Red Rose Inn & Suites - Every Tuesday & Wednesday Prime Rib & Seafood Buffet Enjoy baked, broiled, steamed, and fried seafood including lightly battered fried shrimp.

Saturday, May 7

» Bike Fest Motorcycle Event from 5pm-9pm. Bike Show Registration $5.

Open to public, no admission. Music, vendors & crafters In Historic Downtown Plant City McCall Park - 102 N. Palmer For more information call 813-754-3707.

Monday, May 9

» Cut-A-Thon to Benefit Morgan Pierce The Artistry Salon 1505 S. Alexander St. #102 For more information: 813-760-2607

Sunday, May 8 » Mother’s Day

Saturday, May 14

» Margarita Ball 7pm-midnight Tickets $100 Open bar, food, live band, casino, auction, King/ Queen Contest, and tons of fun For more information call 754-3707 » Art After Dark Second Saturday of each month 6pm-10pm.

The ART Lounge Gallery - 119 E. Reynolds Street

Become a fan of Focus Magazine on Facebook and be the first to know.

now ot pcietyn!!

in plan

TONYSBIKESHOP

$19.95

Now Open in plant city inside & outdoor vendor spots from $10 per day

tune up special new 6speed beach cruisers now available from

$195

electric bikes/ scooters from

813-759-9353 free pickup & delivery www.tonysbikerepair.com open Wednesday thru Sunday

Branch forbes

Branch forbes

$499

4 92

W. Baker St .

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call 813-978-1603

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Now open Friday, Saturday, Sunday info 813-759-9353 www.hwy92fleamarket.com

STEEL BUILDINGS now open

ty !!

i in plant c

better built carports, garages, rv ports, barns & more -quick delivery & installation-

813-759-9353 4306 US Hwy 92 West • Plant City foCUS Magazine Plant City april 2011

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entertainment » crossword

hidden easter eggs created By: Calvin R. and Jackie Mathews

ASSISTING YOU in YOUR Home!

Homemaker &

C

HELPING HANDS CARING HEARTS INC. ency n Ag o i n pa om

Cooking Transportation Light Housekeeping & Much More!

Plant City 813-737-6706 Lakeland 863-812-4752

Leonard@helpinghandcaringhearts.com

helpingufl.com

Locally Owned & Operated Lic # 230092

See the all new

focusplantcity.com

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We Will Make Your Home Sparkle!

Locally Owned and Operated

Sa me Great Service, Sa me Great Cleaners,

Residential & Commercial Cleaning Weekly • Bi-Weekly • Monthly Quality, Dependable Service

Everytime!

Fine Touch Cleaning 813-300-4763 • 813-757-0140

NEW SERVICE OFFERED

Let us make your move less stressful. In addition to our cleaning service we now offer packing your home for a move. You provide boxes, etc., we pack your home, the movers do the rest.

Prices are Based on Time that is Needed.

We Offer One Time Cleaning • Licensed - Insured - Bonded • References Available Upon Request

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Life is better in the Quick Lane.

Auto service just got better!

Quick Lane® at Jarrett-Scott Ford provides all the services your car or truck needs most. All our services are performed by factory-trained experts and on your schedule. No appointment necessary and you’ll get service while you wait, even on evenings and weekends.

We’ll take care of any make or model, using quality parts from trusted brands like Motorcraft® and name-brand tires from Goodyear, Continental, Michelin and more.

Come see why life is better in the Quick Lane.®

$15 OIL CHANGE Excludes diesels and synthetic oil Expires 5/31/2011 2000 East Baker St. • Plant City, FL

$29.95

Mi nombre es Nelson hablo epañol trabajo aqui para todas sus necesidades en el departamento de servicio.

813-757-6429 2000 East Baker Street Plant City, FL 33563

or less after a $10 mail in rebate

Expires 5/31/2011 2000 East Baker St. • Plant City, FL

Service Hours Mon-Fri 7am-7pm Sat 7am-3pm

ALL MAKES AND MODELS WE’LL BEAT YOUR BEST PRICE GUARANTEED

888-533-0777

1475 W Main St. • Bartow, FL 33830

www.BartowChevrolet.com 128

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