FOCUS Plant City 10-07 by Floyd Publications

BEST BUFFET IN PLANT CITY Seniors

FREE

DRINK!

Lunch $6.99 Dinner $9.99 Over 100 items Salads • Desserts Steak • Seafood & Much More

Plant City Homestyle Buffet Steak & Seafood 1914 James Redman Pkwy • 813-754-4488 Hours: Sun.-Thurs. 11a.m. - 8:30p.m. • Fri & Sat 11am - 9pm

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

Table of ConTenTs 18

12-49 LOcaL

Volume 10 Issue 7 • July 2011

focusplantcity.com

Enjoy the local event stories about the recently buried time capsule, PCHS ’71 Class Reunion, Jackie Everidge’s retirement, our Republican Club’s role in state politics, the mayor’s State of the City address, the Moms4Him Zumba 4A Cause fundraiser, a world-class twirling camp, and Plant City’s First Baptist Church “Farm Project”, among others.

on The Cover PrimeCare Plant City Photo by: Mike Floyd

Read The Interview On Pages

63-65

51-57

business fOcus

Learn more about four local businesses who enhance life here in our great town: Dr. Larry Britt, Jarrett-Scott Ford, Park Place Community, and the Red Rose Inn and Suites. As always, Focus hopes you will “Shop local.”

63-65

spOtLight interview

Many Plant City patients are already enjoying the thorough medical care and professional treatment offered by the team of Dr. Alejandro Diaz and Dr. Sumita Chandran. Their expertise, education, and cultural backgrounds blend for a perfect fit here in our town. If you’re in need of an internist or family practitioner, be sure to consider their practice.

Making Health Care About The Realtionships

featured business

Payne Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. celebrates its 75th year of serving families and businesses in our area. The average length of employment for its 85 employees is seven years, which is indicative of the company’s dedication to Central Florida

108

Dr. Diaz

Dr. Chandran

dining prOfiLe

For years a favorite of locals, the Plant City Drive-In Restaurant has the largest menu in the area with more than 120 delicious items. Owner Jose Valencia is proud of recent renovations and updates. He’s long been proud of the great service the staff is determined to offer to so many loyal customers.

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.

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

View the magazine online. Log on to www.focusplantcity.com

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 july 2011

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Letter From The Publisher

There is a quote I’ve heard many times, “Anyone can count the seeds in an apple, but only God can count the number of apples in a seed.” Mostly that quote speaks to everyone metaphorically, but it came to my mind this month because of a project highlighted in one of this issue’s local stories. Several years ago Plant City’s First Baptist Church bought land with the intention to build on it, but the building plans have been put on hold until further notice. Several members got together and created a plan to start planting and harvesting crops on the property and donating those to families in need in the meantime.

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

Not only are they going to be able to meet the physical needs of families, but it’s tremendous to think of the impact they will make by investing into others’ lives. Of course they can track how many plants are grown, and how many pounds are harvested, but no one will be able to track the lives they’ve inspired.

By catching it early on, the patient should be fine. However, decisions physicians make that seem so small, like the decision to order or not to order a test, have a lasting impact. That small detail, or rather, that minute seed, doesn’t seem like a big deal. But imagine had the woman’s disease not been discovered until it was too late to stop it. How many lives would be influenced by her painful fight and possibly her shortened life? One person’s small decision, like of that to order a test, has an exponential impact on hundreds of other lives. I have a friend who always tells me that every decision I make changes the course of history. There is a domino affect that occurs when you choose to be in a certain place at a certain time, and also when you choose not to be. May we remember that we all have the potential to cultivate an abundance of apple trees around us, but we have to first look for the opportunities to plant the seeds.

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.com 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.

BEST PRICE, BEST SERVICE FOR OVER 37 YEARS

Come to TOM EDWARDS CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP to get that personal down home touch that will save you money!

TOM EDWARDS

CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP 1425 W. Main St (Hwy 60 W), Bartow, FL 33830

(813) 708-1181

Monday - Friday 8:30am - 7:30pm • Saturday 9am - 5pm Closed Sunday for Family

HWY 37

Similarly, one of the physicians on our cover this month is Dr. Sumita Chandran. She recently moved over to PrimeCare of Plant City. When we were doing the photoshoot for this spread we somehow ended up in a conversation about one of her recent patients. She shared that a women came in for abdominal pain. Apparently, Dr. Chandran was the third doctor she had come to see. The other two had written it off as something minor. When Dr. Chandran realized the patient was anemic, it raised a red flag in her mind, so she ordered an additional test that was not traditionally standard for an abdominal complaint. The result of the test led to the discovery of colon cancer.

HWY 60

www.edwardschrysler.com foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

Come Experience the Napa Valley Of Tampa Bay

Our Tasting Room & Gift Shop is open daily until 6PM Sample 10 award winning wines for just $5 Host Your Next Special Moment at Keel & Curley Wedding Ceremonies & Receptions Showers, Parties, & Corporate Events

Friday Evening After Hours Wine Bar Dinner Served 5PM - 10PM Happy Hour 6PM - 7PM Wine Tasting until 9PM Live Music 6:30PM - 10:30PM $5 Cover Charge

Our wines are available at:

813.752.9100 â&#x20AC;˘ 5202 W. Thonotosassa Rd., Plant City â&#x20AC;˘ www.keelandcurleywinery.com 10

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Dr. Brenda Dukes Chiropractic Physician

FIBROMYALGIA SYNDROME AND CHIROPRACTIC

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a rheumatic disorder characterized by chronic achy muscular pain that has been verified seems to not have any physical cause. Generally speaking most common in the lower back, the neck, the shoulders, the back of the head, the upper chest, and or possibly the thighs but please note that any areas of the body can be involved. Due to the amazing information being obtained many more fibromyalgia sufferers are turning to the drug-free, natural chiropractic approach. Many have asked why? Chiropractic gets results. The doctor of chiropractic is to reduce stress to the body by adjusting the subluxations (misalignment of the vertebrae). The subluxation can stress the brain, spinal cord, nerve joints, ligaments, muscles, internal organs and other tissues. The symptoms that are usually described are burning, throbbing, shooting and stabbing. Subluxations can disturb many body functions like loss of energy, lower resistance to disease, etc. Many need to know that subluxations may be painless but can be present for years while

damaging your health. There is over a hundred years of clinical research that has exposed that subluxations can affect your physical and mental health. Studies have shown that even with trauma like auto accidents, sports accidents, home accidents, work accidents, and even the unexpected body challenges have long been associated with the development of fibromyalgia. The response of patients with fibromyalgia to chiropractic has been documented over the years as extremely favorable with some form of improvement in most cases. Everyone must remember your body has such a wonderful God given natural healing ability. If it can be free from subluxations that is a valuable part of better health. Thanks for having a chiropractic checkup- it may make the difference between the life of pain or a life of ease. 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.

Where do you go for objective investment guidance? Objective investment guidance starts with objective research. As America’s largest independent brokerage firm,* LPL Financial is one of the few sources of unbiased research – uninfluenced by investment banking activities or corporate relationships like some other firms. The LPL Financial Research team performs in-depth research on bonds, mutual funds, annuities and investment managers across every asset class. This unbiased, independent research is the foundation for investment recommendations that are truly in your best interest. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a one-on-one consultation.

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

813-759-8485

michaels.cameron@lpl.com

A Registered Investment Adviser Member FINRA/SIPC

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

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

Talk of The Town

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

naTional fooTball foundaTion awards PlanT CiTy high sChool

Two Plant City High School students were recognized recently by the Tampa Chapter of the National Football Foundation. Nicholas Bryce and Michael York were honored at the 43rd Annual Awards Banquet held at the Double Tree Westshore. Michael York was selected to the Hillsborough County National Football Foundation and Hall of Fame Scholar-Athletes. Michael has a 4.99 grade point average and played on the offensive line for Plant City High School. He was named to the 1st Team All Western Conference Team and was selected as a Hillsborough County All Star in football. He plans to attend the University of South Florida.

aThena soCieTy “young woman of Promise” PlanT CiTy high sChool Shelby Johnson, a junior at Plant City High School was selected by the Athena Society for the prestigious honor of “2011 Young Woman of Promise.” Ten girls were selected for the honor. The junior girls submitted an application along with a letter of recommendation from their counselors. Selection was based on achievement in the classroom, extracurricular activities and service to others. Left to right: Sherrie Mueller, College and Career Counselor; Evenlyn Johnson, Shelby’s mother; Shelby Johnson, “2011 Young Woman of Promise”; Keith Johnson, Shelby’s father.

Nicholas Bryce was selected as the recipient of the NFL Players Association Scholarship for $2,500. Nick was selected through an application process which included a nomination letter from his coach, Dale Chambers. Nick was a Tampa Tribune Scholar and ranked 11th in his Senior Class. He will attend the University of Florida. Picture: Sherrie Mueller, College and Career Counselor; Harold Hart, Former NFL player and Chairman of the NFL Players Scholarship Committee; Nicholas Bryce, Scholarship winner; Michael York, Scholar-Athlete, Traci Durrance, Assistant Principal of Administration of Plant City High School.

ryan neCe good samariTan awards PlanT CiTy high sChool

Four students from Plant City High School were honored recently by Ryan Nece and the Ryan Nece Foundation. Students throughout Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties are nominated each month by their guidance counselors to become the Ryan Nece Good Samaritan of the Month. Nominees are selected based on their volunteer service in both school and community volunteer activities. Monthly winners along with their parents are honored at an end of the year banquet hosted by the Ryan Nece Foundation. This year’s banquet was held at the Tampa Club in downtown Tampa. Brooke Bennett, Olympic Gold Medal winner, was the featured speaker and assisted Nece with the presentation of the student winners. Each student winner was presented with a mounted football signed by Ryan Nece and had the opportunity of having photos taken with both Nece and Brooke Bennett. A highlight of the evening for the participants was holding the Olympic Gold Medals won by Brooke Bennett. Winners from Plant City High School included: Regan Knotts, Danielle Miller, Max Girling, Benjamin Willis

aThena soCieTy “young woman of Promise” PlanT CiTy high sChool

CongraTulaTions billy keel Jim Scott presenting Billy Keel as “Rotarian of the Year”

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Analise Coffee, a “2010 Young Woman of Promise” from Plant City High School attended the event. Shelby was nominated by Sherrie Mueller, College and Career Counselor. Shelby is ranked 3rd in the Junior Class academically. She is a two sport athlete and was named to the 2nd Team All Conference in Golf. She is active with Special Olympics in both basketball and volleyball. Left to right: Analise Coffee, “2010 Young Woman of Promise”; Sherrie Mueller, College and Career Counselor; Shelby Johnson, “2011 Young Woman of Promise.”

Talk of The Town roTary Club annual awards

On June 23rd, 2011, the Rotary Club of Plant City held their annual Installation Banquet. During the evening’s program Jim Scott passed the President’s gavel to Keith Smith. Keith was sworn in as the new President of the Plant City club by Rotary International’s District Governor, Ed Odom. Billy Keel was also awarded by Jim as the “Rotarian of the Year” for the club. This award was based on all the dedication and devotion of time and effort that Billy gave the club during the past fiscal year.

The sky’s The limiT! Changing of The guard Jim Scott the outgoing President and Keith Smith the incoming President

It’s official! Flugtag will return to Tampa on October 8th at the Tampa Convention Center. Flugtag – “flying day” in German, is sponsored by Red Bull. It’s a great spectator event and it’s been around the world since 1992. In 2008, Tampa hosted its first Flugtag and the event saw a then US record crowd of 110,000 spectators. Each team has a pilot and 4 team members to help with takeoff. They perform a short skit and then launch their team-powered craft off a 30-foot ramp over water. Tampa will be the only event stateside for 2011. Applications are due August 1st and must include a sketch and a description of the team’s vision. 2008 winners, Team Tampa Bay Watch (a spoof on Baywatch) – Chris Elmore, Kevin Riley and Plant City boys Keith and Kevin Humphrey and David West, will return to defend their title. This year, they’ll compete as Willy Wonka, the Amazing Flugtag Adventure. For more information visit www.redbullflugtagusa.com

PePsi sCholar-aThleTe banqueT 2011 PlanT CiTy high sChool

Analise Coffee and Nicholas Bryce were recently honored by the Pepsi Corporation as two of Hillsborough County Schools Scholar-Athletes. One female and one male student athlete from each of the high schools were selected to represent their respective schools. Pepsi Corporation hosted the awards banquet at the DoubleTree Hotel in Tampa. Parents of the honorees along with school officials and coaches were included. Analise Coffee graduated 4th in her class of 411 seniors with a 6.36 grade point average. She has lettered in both softball and volleyball. She was selected as a Tampa Tribune Scholar and will attend the University of Florida. Nicholas Bryce graduated 11th in his class of 411 seniors with a 6.02 grade point average. He lettered in basketball. He was a Tampa Tribune Scholar and will also attend the University of Florida. Pictured left to right: Colleen Richardson, Principal of Plant City High School; Analise Coffee, Nicholas Bryce, Traci Durrance, Assistant Principal of Administration of PCHS; Sherrie Mueller, College and Career Counselor.

JaCkson elemenTary fCaT wriTing suCCess

Fourth grade students at Jackson Elementary School, Plant City, were rewarded for their FCAT writing success with an outdoor celebration on June 1. Jackson students had a record-breaking year with thirty-two students scoring 5 and six students scoring 6 on the FCAT writing assessment. Ninety-one percent of Jackson fourth grade students earned a passing score of 4 or higher. Students enjoyed a picnic on the grounds, games, relays, and music. Each student who scored a 5 or 6 selected a favorite teacher to receive a pie in the face. Dora Madison, principal, said, “Our students are the best writers in the world and I am so glad that we were able to celebrate their success.” Fourth grade teachers include: Amy Aubin, Nicole Gentile, Barbara Pugh, and Bonnie McPhail. Other faculty members working with fourth grade students are Richard Mainville, Anna Rivera, and writing resource teacher, Rob Sanders. foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

Local » focus

American Sign Language Extravaganza 2011 A written By: Cheryl Johnston

sizeable audience of family and friends thoroughly enjoyed the recent American Sign Language 2011 Extravaganza. Representing five Hillsborough County high schools, approximately 70 students performed synchronized movements to popular tunes at the May 10 event. The Strawberry Crest ASL Honor Society and ASL Club hosted the evening in the school’s auditorium. Participating schools included Blake, Brandon, Plant City, Tampa Bay Tech and SCHS. Melissa Morgado, the World Languages Supervisor for Hillsborough County Public Schools, emceed. In several performances, teachers also took the stage with the teens. Teachers included Phyllis Gaines (Blake), Kim Huston (Brandon), Kisha Hymes and Stephanie Brooks (PCHS), Darelle Roberts (TBT),

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

and Robin Schwarz and Natasha Walden (SCHS).

The best part for teachers, however, is all about the kids. Kim Huston of Brandon High School explained, “The Extravaganza is one of the best parts of the year for me as a teacher. It gives the kids a chance to shine and show what they have learned throughout the course of the year / or two/ or three, depending on their level. It makes me proud to see them have the courage to stand on stage and “strut their stuff ” in front of hundreds of people, showing off one of their newest skills. This class changes the lives of many in ways we may or may not see before they leave our classroom. But the lives they will touch because of the knowledge they gain, regardless of how big or small, is just absolutely priceless!” Sign languages can vary from country to country or region to region, as there is

not one universal form. Many believe that ASL was derived mostly from French Sign Language, but others claim the foundation for ASL existed before FSL was introduced in America in 1817 when the first school for the deaf was established in Hartford, Connecticut.

In spoken language, different sounds created by words and tones of voice are the most important elements in communication. Sign language relies on sight. ASL uses hand shape, position, and movement along with body movements, gestures, facial expressions, and other visual cues to relate and translate messages. Like most languages, fluency and proficiency requires a long period of study and practice. ASL is a language completely separate from English. It has its own rules for grammar, punctuation, and sentence order. It evolves as its users do and allows

for regional usage and jargon. Ethnicity, age, and gender can also affect usage and variety. Since tone of voice is not a feature of ASL, users may use body movements and facial expressions to express emotion or ask questions.

Many mothers of infants are teaching ASL to their babies as an enhancement to language development. Children are naturally able to learn other languages relatively quickly if the language is used on a daily basis in their surroundings. ASL is also a great tool for tactile learners because it involves physical movement. This is the part the teens love most - the physical movement. The ASL Extravaganza 2011 was definitely an event that allowed the students to shine and strut and smile. And the audience couldn’t have been more pleased.

Short and Long Hair Feather Extensions

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

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

Local » Focus City Living Center, and the Florida Baptist Children’s Home. Mary Louise Messick, a 76-year-old resident of PC Living Center, decided she wanted to help, too. She shared, “My family farmed in the Turkey Creek area and this is something I know how to do, so why not help?” Miller complimented her hard work and eager service, saying, “Mary has been here often. I believe the work energizes her.” Ray Young and his wife Julie, among others, have also helped with the picking. Young’s desire for the project is that more folks will volunteer as they catch the vision and see what can be accomplished. Morris believes this will happen, and in fact, he said, “It is our hope in the future to involve more people and groups in the community that have a heart for this kind of outreach.”

Harvesting the conch, zipper, and black-eyed peas is a church family affair. From L to R are Randall Miller, Jessica McMichen, Connor Wilson, Jennifer Gault, First Baptist youth pastor Randy Wilson with Blake, 5, and Morgan, 3, and Mary Louise Messick. Photo by: Cheryl Johnston

The Farm Project W written By: Cheryl Johnston

hen Plant City’s First Baptist Church purchased 53 acres of prime property on State Road 39 South in 2004, the intention was to build another church campus at that end of town. Temporarily, that plan has been postponed.

Most locals are aware of the site because the church has hosted a community wide “Egg Drop” and “Miracle Walk” there for the past few years to celebrate Christ’s Resurrection. Now members hope to use a portion of the land for growing crops to help feed those in need. At this moment a 4.7-acre crop of three varieties of peas is ready for harvest at the NW corner of the property. These are black eyes, conchs, and zipper peas. Anyone interested in picking should phone Randall Miller at 813-766-6864. The idea formed after a group of men, now known as “The Farm Team,” learned

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

of Plant City’s First Baptist Church Harvests Peas

of a church in Brooksville that raised watermelons for the same purpose. For almost 12 years a group has been meeting Mondays at BuddyFreddy’s for a breakfast Bible study. When the team’s committee chairman, Ray Young, brought the news article to their attention, several volunteered to be involved. Because Jesus asked His disciples to “Feed My sheep,” the farming disciples at Plant City’s First Baptist Church determined they would obey the command.

decided we would plant the peas and let God water them.” Church administrator Steve Morris added, “We’ve depended on the Lord, and He’s done a good job.” Morris also explained that the team had already shared some of the harvest with residents at Plant City Towers, Plant

In fact, a small group from First Baptist spent Saturday, July 9, working on the harvest. Picking peas is not easy work, but many hands can accomplish much. It’s good outdoor exercise, too! Miller is confident the project will continue, with God’s help. “We’re just learning what to do as we go along,” he said as he shelled peas, and then added, “Truthfully, He’s here to help all the time. We just don’t give him enough credit.” For additional information on “The Farm Project” and how you can join the effort, contact the church office at 813-7524104.

The team believes their prayers for divine guidance and funds were answered when Clint Cline located a charitable foundation, which provided a $10,000 grant for soil preparation and the first planting of peas. Although the land is not yet irrigated, the group intends to accomplish that this fall. In the meantime, according to team member Randall Miller, irrigation did not concern them because “We just

Until Plant City’s First Baptist Church is ready to expand its South Campus on SR 39, the church will use the property for crops to feed the hungry, for outreach activities such as the Egg Drop and Miracle Walk, and for sports fields. Photo by: Cheryl Johnston

Buys the radical concept

that big skyscrapers don’t necessarily mean big investment smarts.

It shouldn’t be a crazy idea that investments deserve personal attention. That’s why we put our 10,000 offices in neighborhoods. So we’re easier to get to, and spend time with. Join the nearly 7 million investors who know. Face time and think time make sense. www.edwardjones.com

Stephen W Shouse, Financial Advisor, AAMS 1514 S Alexander Street Suite 206 Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-9400

Luke Carvalho, Financial Advisor 2806 James L Redman Pkwy., Suite 201 Plant City, FL 33566 813-752-9765

Tim Shuff, Financial Advisor, CFP 104 N Evers St Suite 102 Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-1071 foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

Local » Focus

State of the City meeting at City Hall on Friday June, 11

State of the City Address M Writtene By: Cindy DeLaPaz

Hall.

ayor Dan Raulerson opened the 2nd annual State of the City address on June 10th at City

the Strategic Guide, which is also available on the city website: http:// www.plantcitygov.com/DocumentView. aspx?DID=3947 .

Several key city personnel and departments were present, recognized and applauded for their contributions.

The 2010-11 budget, complete with details regarding declines, increases and spending cuts necessary to balance the budget, was discussed as well.

Our Plant City Police department was congratulated for a 19% decrease in crime this year and its re-accreditation with 100% compliance! Both the Police and Fire departments remain fully funded with no budget cuts projected. This was good news to all the fine men and women serving in these areas.

The 2010-11 achievements are many: midtown, downtown, infrastructure improvements; Snowden and Ellis Methvin Parks; Economic Development Analysis; Gordon Food Services; Tax Exemption Program and the Business Retention and Expansion Survey.

The Stormwater Bill, which would have allowed for the redevelopment of midtown Plant City, did not pass the Senate. Anyone interested in supporting this plan is encouraged to contact his or her senator to request the progression of this bill for 2012. Detailed information on this vision is located on the website: http://www.plantcitygov.com/ DocumentView.aspx?DID=259. City Manager Greg Horwedel presented

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Management Division.

Additionally, the City is considering reuse of our stadium which would allow a private firm to operate and manage costs of the complex, yet would still allow the City to share in the revenue. This proposal is currently being evaluated for compliance with Florida law.

Looking ahead, the 2011-12 budget will be tight again with additional cuts in operating expenses and the focus on preserving core services and mandated responsibilities. Initiatives for 2011-12 include several infrastructure projects (Wheeler St. construction, the re-alignment of Turkey Creek / Airport Rd intersection and Park Rd widening), Brownfield Designation, and a system software upgrade for the City’s Financial

Mayor Daniel Raulerson

Please be sure to take time to look at these details. An informed community member is a valuable asset to our city. In summary, Raulerson reported that the State of the City is stable, but the future is uncertain until national, state and local economies show sustained improvement. He concluded the address with these encouraging words: “It’s going to get tougher before it gets better…. but we’ll get through it - together.”

ENROLL NOW FOR FALL PRE-SCHOOL CLASS K-2 K-3 AND VPK-4 Ages 2-12 years • Free Registration • Free Fall VPK Staff is CPR & First Aid Certified We accept school readiness/voucher program

FOR NEW ENROLLMENTS MENTION THIS AD AND RECEIVE SECOND WEEK FREE

FAMILY KARATE CENTER (813) 752-9800

602. S. Collins St.,

Plant City, FL 33563

(on the corner of Alabama St. and Collins St.)

Picture by Debbra Bruce Photography

Member of the Christian Karate Association

DAYCAR G E B& CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2011 VPK GRADUATES

KIN

DERG ARTEN I

. C N

14419 DR. MLK BLVD. DOVER, FL. 33527 (813) 659-0904 Hours of operation 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

License Number CHC 110014 | Family Owned since 1984

Classes for Adults, Teens, and Children.

Classes for age 4 years old and up Great Discounts for families!

Complete Auto Service Center

www.PlantCityKarate.com

American Auto Repair and Service “Where We Treat Your Car As If It Was Our Own”

SUMMER CAMP

Monday Thru Thursday 5:00pm-9:00pm

A/C Service $34.95 Includes 1 lb 134A Freon Fuel Injection Flush $99.95 Auto Transmission Service Flush & Filter Change $149.95 & up 4 Wheel Alignment $59.95 Tires, Wheels & Much More. Free Alignment with 4 New Tires

All Major Brands Of Tires

pen at Now O n!

Oil Change, Lube, & Filter for Diesel

tio a c o l w Ne

$99.95

903 Woodrow Wilson St • Plant City, Fl 33563 • Hours Of Operation: Mon. - Fri 7:00am to 5:30pm

Se Habla Espanol

(813)-752-6729

Now Accepting

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

Local » Focus

Mayor Raulerson presents Ms. Jackie with a plaque Photo by Diana Brink

Students present Ms. Jackie with 54 roses one for each year of dance she taught. Photo by Diana Brink

Final Farewell to Jackie’s Dance Performing Arts Instructor “Ms. Jackie” Retires After 54 Years Theatre “T written By: Diana Brink

he Fabulous ‘50s” theme was perfectly suited for an evening designed to honor Jackie Everidge of Jackie’s Dance Theater. “Miss Jackie,” as she is affectionately called, recently announced her retirement after 54 years of dedication to the performing arts. Students former and present, friends, family members and colleagues joined in the celebration at the company’s final recital on June 11, 2011 at the 1914 Plant City High School Community Center. A reception sponsored by the East Hillsborough Historical Society followed. Plant City native Jacquelyn Ann Pinson embraced dance as a young girl and took lessons from Ann Barr. At age 15, she moved after her PCHS graduation to America’s capitol city for instruction with the Washington School of Dance. Several years later she returned to her hometown to purchase her former dance teacher’s business. She formed Jackie’s Dance Theatre and held classes downtown. She also performed at Walt

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

office, Buddy worked behind the scenes, managing the books, operating the sound system, and doing anything needed to David Chernault, a Broadway and Disney ensure the rehearsals and shows went on. performer, made a surprise visit to perform After Sharon graduated from FSU and USF, she taught alongside her mother. a special number. Chernault, a former Miss Jackie acknowledges that she could In the ‘70s, Jackie purchased, renovated, drama teacher at the studio, currently not have run the business without their teaches at Disney. For the impact Jackie and added a dance floor to the 100-yearmade on his life, he expressed appreciation: help. old building that has since housed the “Ms. Jackie loved the kids. No one is taken studio. Jackie has instructed more than 5,000 for granted, and now I try to show the students over the last 54 years and the same love to my students.” Before the recital performances began, company has provided scholarships for Dr. Kulyk played oldies on the piano. The opening number included current students, Heather Gentry, a 21-year-old USF senior many. She feels privileged to have taught children and grandchildren of some initial theatre major and student of Miss Jackie Ms. Jackie, alumni, and directors. students. since age 3, also came as a guest soloist to share in this special day. She said, “Thanks, Mayor Dan Raulerson attended the Miss Jackie has loved each child and will celebration to present a plaque recognizing Miss Jackie, for starting my love for the miss teaching, but now looks forward arts.” Miss Jackie’s significant contribution to spending more time with her own to our community. He said, “Your spirit grandchildren who each presented her Current students surprised Miss Jackie will live on, and children will continue to with flowers before the show’s final curtain. with a plaque and 54 red roses, one for benefit from you.” each year of dance. At evening’s end, Jackie expressed County Commissioner Al Higginbotham appreciation for the opportunity to teach They also recognized her high school also presented a plaque of recognition sweetheart and husband of 51 years, Buddy 54 years in this community she so loves. and complimented the priceless gifts she and their daughter Sharon, who have been She reminisced, “I appreciate and love the provided to her students. He said, “Miss children. It’s been a wonderful life.” a great source of strength throughout the Jackie’s a storyteller through dance. We years. Since his retirement from the post don’t have to leave Plant City to find Disney World’s grand opening in 1971, directed and choreographed the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Swashbucklers in 1976, and worked at the professional ballet in Orlando.

talent. She’s given students memories that will last forever.”

C C Thank you Plant City for 21 years of trusting us with your care.

C C Caring . u o y r o f We accept all auto insurances, and most major insurance and HMO's

Auto Injury Whiplash Headaches Back and Leg Pain Sciatica Muscle Spasms Neck, Shoulder, and Arm Pain Herniated/Bulging Disc Fibromyalgia

Visit us at our NEWLY RENOVATED OFFICE To learn more about our services visit our interactive website at www.caringconceptsinc.com

Dr. Todd Glenn Dr. William "B.J." Garrison (Palmer College Graduates)

813-754-2273 • 1215 W Baker Street • Plant City, FL 33563 Educated and Dedicated to serve you!

(June 20-August 1 7:30am-5:30pm)

Now RegisteRiNg Ages 1-4 foR fAll Before/after school care for walden lake elementary school full time VPK and fRee part time VPK Highly Qualified staff low student/teacher Ratios High Kindergarten school Readiness Rates school-Aged summer Camp Accepting school Readiness

Walden Lake Early Learning Center 2730 Turkey Creek Rd • Plant City, FL 33566

813-752-7008

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

SCHOOL OF MUSIC & ARTS A MINISTRY OF PLANT CITY’S FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH

FALL MUSIC LESSONS Private Lessons Offered In:

Piano Voice Guitar Bass Guitar

Drums Cello Violin Viola

Clarinet Trumpet Percussion and Timpani

Local » Focus

Honoring the American Flag Plant City Elks Lodge holds Annual Flag Day Service written by: John Ross

A Group Class is available for Preschoolers (ages 3-5 years) Titled Music to Grow On

Fall Semester August 22- December 9, 2011 For more information contact Della Watson : 813-750-4878

Start Garden your own

It’s just that simple!

813-752-1818 1705 Sammonds Rd, Plant City BrownleeGardenSupply.com

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Learn how to plant your own orange tree at www.focusplantcity.com/ gardencenter

he Elks Lodge of Plant city held its first annual Flag Day service on Sunday, June 12th to honor our country’s Flag, to celebrate the anniversary of its birth, and to recall the achievements attained beneath its folds. The community gathered in assembly and began by singing the Star Spangled Banner. Exalted Ruler Dee Spivey took the podium afterward and spoke of the flag’s history. “Heraldry is as old as the human race,” she said. “The carrying of banners has been a custom among all peoples in all ages. These banners usually contain some concept of the life or government of those who fashion them. The evolution of the American Flag marks the progression of the government of the American people.” The Esteemed Knights of the Lodge were each prompted to state their version of the significance of the flag. “It is emblematic of the crowning virtue, Charity,” said the Esteemed Leading Knight. “It is the symbol of Brotherly Love,” declared the Esteemed Lecturing Knight. Lodge Secretary William Spivey delivered the response to the history of the flag: “To what man or woman is given words adequate to tell the story

of the building of this nation? That immortal story is written in blood and sweat, in heroic deeds and unremitting toil, in clearing the primeval forests and in planting of vast prairies where once the coyote and buffalo roamed… This is the heritage of the people of the United States. It has been repurchased by each succeeding generation and must be re-won again, again, and again until the end of time, lest it too shall pass like the ancient Empires of Greece and Rome. The price of liberty is eternal vigilance”. Members of Boy Scout Troop 14 held all the versions of our Flag from its first beginnings as a 13-star version through its evolution to our most current version with 50 stars. One by one they approached the podium and mounted the flag to a separate pedestal as Ms. Spivey gave us the history of each. The final flag to be displayed was the POW-KIA flag, to honor our fallen and imprisoned troops throughout our wars. In closing, we asked United States War Veterans to stand and be recognized. Veterans from World War II, Korea, the Vietnam War, and Desert Storm stood up to resounding applause. The Elks Lodge at 1501 N. Alexander Street continues this tradition annually. For a great history lesson and a moving tribute, be sure to catch next year’s salute.

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

LocaL » focus in Plant City as it is today. Some of the objects include, but are not limited to: the Chamber of Commerce membership directory, photos of Plant City Commissioners, staff, city facilities and Fire Rescue, a December 2009 Focus Magazine issue with cover story on the city’s 125th year anniversary, assorted photographs of Strawberry Festival parade activities, a 2009 Festival Program, the complete Tampa Tribune newspaper dated Sunday, January 10th, 2010, and the American flag flown over the 125th Anniversary Celebration and mural dedication held January 10, 2010. While Mr. Lofstrom was the time capsule idea’s originator, he quickly credits Police Chief William McDaniel for seeing the project through to completion. Many other community members also contributed and took part. This endeavor provides us with a great example of cooperation between the private sector (local business owners and residents) and the public sector. The time capsule was buried adjacent to the Heart of Plant City mural, on January 14th at 3:00 p.m., just four days after Plant City’s official 125th anniversary date. As a marker for the time capsule a special sculpture titled “Eternal Time” was created by local Plant City artist Robert Woods. The sculpture depicts an abstract grandfather clock, stunning in its originality and unique design.

Plant City artist Robert Woods created the “Eternal Time” sculpture to mark the capsule’s location.

PLAnt city time cAPSuLe Presented in honor of PLant city today for the next generation written By: heAther dAvis

n honor and in dedication of the 125th anniversary of Plant City, a truly special and unique celebration was hosted by by the Mayor, a City Commissioner, two well known local business owners, and a ten-year-old boy. As a marker of time, Whistle Stop Cafe owner Jerry Lofstrom came upon the

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

idea of creating a time capsule that could serve two purposes: to mark and honor this particular time in the history of Plant City and to let future generations know of their past. In representation of the future generations, Wyatt Davis, 10, was a keynote speaker. He spoke of the fact that when this time capsule is to be

opened in the year 2085, he will be 84-years-old. At that time he will tell those in attendance what it was like to live in Plant City when the capsule was buried. What a powerful statement and sentiment to share. The actual time capsule was dedicated by Hopewell Funeral Home. Contained within are pieces representing life

watch

foCusTv

to come

Many Plant City residents attended the June 10, 2011 unveiling of the sculpture and heard the keynote speakers emphasize the importance of the event and the meaning behind it. But perhaps none conveyed the message and meaning behind the event more clearly than young Wyatt Davis, who will share in the honor of representing the Plant City of 2011 with the future generations of Plant City in 2085.

Check out our coverage of this event online at

www.myfocustv.com

GRAND OPENING Saturday August 6 10am to 4pm Sunday August 7 1pm to 5pm

Mamie’s School of Dance, Inc, established in 1977, has operated for 35 years in Bartow and is excited to open a new branch at Strawberry Plaza in Plant City! (Near Staples) Our teaching program offers a fresh, new and exciting approach to your dance training.

We are beginning renovation soon and will be open on August 1st!

We offer classes in: (girls and boys, ages 3 & up)

Ballet • Jazz • Hip Hop Pom Pom (Cheer Dance) Tap • Clogging • Lyrical Creative Movement Our accomplishments include: Dollywood • Disney World Epcot • Cypress Gardens The Big Red Boat Holland America’s Zuidernam Regional & National Winners of Numerous Competitions Buccaneer Cheerleaders Pageant Winners School/College Dance Teams Employees of Disney & Sea World Cruise Line Performers

Service is personalized by Mamie Robinson, never leaving your child in the hands of another student or assistant teacher. We have a lot to offer and pride ourselves in making your child the heart of our studio!

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

Local » Focus Emily Bright, the current feature twirler for Iowa State University Cyclone Football Varsity Marching Band. Past teachers have included national champions and Miss Majorettes of America.

Golden Triangle Twirling Camp and Center Field Half-Time Camp originally included twirlers from St.Petersburg, Clearwater, and Tampa, but has now grown to feature participants and teachers from All instructors for the camp are carefully California, Alabama, Georgia, the Virgin chosen for their twirling abilities as well Islands, Puerto Rico, and England. “The as their capability to work well with friendships made through this camp will attendees. When asked what the camp tries be cherished forever!” Patrick commented. to help twirlers achieve throughout the Triangle Twirling Camp and Center experience, Patrick explained that the goal Field Half-Time Camp has flourished is to teach participants “to be correct with tremendously over the years due to its all the twirling basics/techniques, to set a competition twirling element and the goal and work to reach it, to work for good addition of flags, as well. practice habits and most importantly— In August, Patrick will begin teaching make some new twirling friends.” twirling classes at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center in Plant City. The leaders of Golden Triangle Twirling Camp and Center Field Half-Time Camp To learn more about Golden hope their efforts will help keep twirling Triangle Twirling Camp and Center alive and help participants fulfill their Field Half-Time Camp, visit www. vision to become college feature twirlers floridabatontwirlers.com. and/or national champions. Karrissa Wimberly and brother Sean Wimberly performed a special routine for the campers.

Barbara Patrick World Twirling Camp G Written By: Taylor Flumerfelt

olden Triangle Twirling Camp and Center Field Half-Time Camp celebrate their 51st year of training twirlers from around the globe in 2011. The camps offer instruction to hone and display the precision skills of participants and are recognized throughout the states, Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and England for the caliber of talent they produce.

Participants are instructed in a combination of one, two and three baton, strut, basic, military, duets, group routines, football and show routines, drill and marching routines, fire baton, modeling, body movements, leaps, dance-twirl, flags, “big silks,” rifles, sabers, dance corp and drill teams.

Some of this year’s activities included Miss Ugly, Miss Golden Triangle, fire baton, and Barbara Patrick, director of the camp, dance and body work. The last day of camp noted that the purpose of the event is “to included routines from each category that teach correct baton twirling techniques, displayed what participants had learned along with the latest twirls, and to prepare and had been working on throughout the [twirlers] for college and high routines.” camp. The cost for day-campers was $150 and out-of-area campers paid $255, which Camp is open to females and males of included food, instruction, room recreation beginner, intermediate, advanced and super and supervision. advanced skill levels. Private lessons are available each year upon request. Lynann Hudson, Patrick’s daughter, shares her mother’s passion for twirling and joins This year’s camp took place June 19-22 her each year in operating the camp. Guest at three different locations: Eastside teachers for this year’s camp included Baptist Church, Holiday Inn Express of Karrissa Wimberly, a former feature Plant City, and Hillsborough Community twirler for Florida State University; Kevin College’s Trinkle Center. Thirteen teachers Griner, the Color Guard Director for the instructed 160 twirlers, making for the University of Central Florida Marching largest camp year yet. Knights; Kristilee Ginther, the current feature twirler at Troy State University; and

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

One of the many routines showcased on the last day of camp highlights what participants had learned throughout the training sessions.

As Golden Triangle Twirling Camp and Center Field Half-Time Camp expanded, flags were added to the large variety of instructional categories from which attendees could select.

Plant Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hometown Plumber You Can Depend On

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

Repipe Experts Family Owned & Operated Since 1984

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

-Leaks Repaired

-Toilets

-Sewer Lines

-Faucets

-Drain Cleaning

-Disposals

-Water Heaters

Lifetime Plant City Resident

Fast Service

Only Plumber Recommended By The

813-754-0317 foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

Local » Focus

Photo by Starr Anderson

Plant City High School Class of Celebrates the Second Anniversary 1971 of their 20th Reunion A written By: Sherrie Mueller

pproximately 120 classmates and spouses gathered recently at the Red Rose Ballroom to celebrate their 40th Class Reunion. Class of 1971 graduates from several different states as well as local residents reminisced about days of old and shared family updates.

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

The Red Rose Ballroom served a mixed green salad followed by a plated meal of sliced roast beef, Chicken Marsala, mashed potatoes and green beans. Dessert consisted of a decorated cake saluting the Class of 1971.

In keeping with the pride of the Class of 1971, the Red Rose Ballroom staff led by Jennifer White, Events Coordinator and Director, decorated the ballroom in PCHS “Planter” colors with royal blue tablecloths and satin orange napkins. The look was completed with black chair covers and festive orange and crystal center pieces with candlelight. Favors of graduation cap shaped cookies in school colors and ‘71 on the tassel were at each place setting.

Following the meal, classmates viewed a video produced by classmate Ben Sharpton, filled with pictures from 1971 and which also included the “Bucket List” accomplishments of ’71 grads. These things included raising children, spoiling grandchildren and traveling. Afterwards, classmates gathered for a group picture. David Wright, photographer for the Red Rose, attended the event and featured the group in a photo tribute on the Red Rose Inn and Suites website. To view the slideshow online, visit www. redroseinnandsuites.com.

Each guest was greeted by Kaye Robinson Williams, Class Treasurer, and given a photo nametag with their 1971 class picture. The guests also were presented an address book of contact information for each graduate. Sherrie Chambers Mueller, Class President, welcomed all before the Class Chaplain, Maruchi Azorin Blanco, offered the invocation.

Classmates praised the facilities and food at the Red Rose Ballroom. Nikki Holbrook Udelsman, who traveled from Woodbridge, Connecticut said, “This has been a fun event. I am so pleased that I got to see many friends and extended family. Plant City is so fortunate to have a place like the Red Rose Inn and Suites to host special events like our class reunion.”

Farm Credit finances dreams large or small. Whether large or small, Farm Credit can help you achieve the lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of. We’ve been financing dreams for more than 90 years. Call us, we’re the experts. We provide: • Rapid turnaround • Financing or refinancing • Loans for large or small acreage • Loans on second residences

Vonda Fulwood 800-713-7550 vfulwood@farmcreditcfl.com

Loans for land, homes, & agriculture.

- 42 Years Experience - New Doors - Insured - Used Doors - Electric Openers

www.tonygds.com foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

HOPE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Now Enrolling

Christian Education for kids with Learning Disabilities with IEP’s – McKay Scholarships! Kids who receive FREE or REDUCED lunch may qualify for SUFS Scholarships!

McKay and Step-Up--for-Students Scholarship Available Small Group Learning

1109 Grant Street • Plant City www.hope-christian.com

PERFECT FOR THE DO-IT-YOURSELFERS ALL WOOD, NO PARTICLE BOARD

MENTION THIS AD FOR 10 % OFF

2670 Highway 92 East, Plant City, FL Open Mondays - Saturdays: 8:30-5:00

813-752-3378 www.brokepoor.com

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Located Between Lakeland and Plant City

813-752-1000

W HE

Local » Focus

CO D IN G O O

kelly morris (813) 727-2802

Turkey Sock Creek High Hop School A

2553 st. rd 60 east valrico, florida 33594 (next to beef o bradys)

written by: Diana Brink

night of celebration with former classmates while reminiscing the good ole days - what could be more fun? Approximately 300 alumni of Turkey Creek High School (TCHS), along with former faculty, friends and family came together May 28, 2011 at the Brownlee Barn for a “Sock Hop”. The evening began with friends catching up and searching for familiar faces of former classmates. Some even arrived in ‘50s apparel. The students joined in singing their Alma Mater. “We have living history here tonight with Mrs. Thompson, class of 1936 and Mr. Brownlee, class of 1938,” said James Jones, 1949 drum major, as he opened the evening festivities. Not only were alumni in attendance, but former faculty as well: Ms. Nevoline Cowan, Mr. Thomas McPherson, Coach Reed and Coach Brown. The current principal of Turkey Creek Middle School, Dennis Mayo, also attended.

Southern Style Catering provided a mouth-watering southern dinner. Door prizes with TCHS logo also were part of the fun. Thomas Bevill, a local DJ, provided music from the past. The rain pounding on the barn roof and dripping in a few places didn’t put a damper on the festivities. Everyone just huddled closer together. When asked what the evening meant to her, Jan Stanaland Albritton commented, “A fun night to renew with some acquaintances, and a chance to see people that I haven’t seen since high school.” The Sock Hop was an enjoyable evening for many old friends who were happy to be together just as if very little time had passed. With those who recall high school as some of the best years of their lives, the TCHS alumni on this evening would most definitely agree.

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

Local » Focus she is one of the most grounded women you will ever meet and she credits Him with helping her to find “ purpose in my role as wife, mother, pastor’s wife, sister and friend.” For their generosity, Moms4Him would like to especially thank its certified Zumba instructors Patty Sanchez and Helen Rosado Velez and its corporate sponsors: Home Protection & Pest Control, Weight Loss & Urgent Care Clinic, Markley Chiropractic & Acupuncture, New Generation Tees, and Fish Fitness. Winners of the three themed baskets enjoyed gifts from Stampin’ Out, Fish Fitness, Sister’s & Company, Sassy but Classy Jewelry, Martin’s Place Studios, Borghese, Publix, and Olive Garden.

Church comedian Thelma Harper visits with the instructors. Photo courtesy of Polly Herrin

Moms4Him A

large group of Plant City women have discovered a healthy way to fundraise for a children’s orphanage in Mexico - and the only equipment required is comfy dancing shoes. Think tennis with gym wear and you’re good to go. Seventy-two women gathered recently in the Plant City Church of God fellowship hall to Zumba 4A Cause. The event, sponsored by Moms4Him, had a purpose near and dear to every mother’s heart - children without parents. The $1,100 in proceeds from registration fees and basket raffle will help support the ministry team of teens and adults from PCCoG headed in July to the Casa Hogar Orphanage in Poza Rica, Mexico. The goal this year is to build and equip a much-needed new kitchen. Tammy Bridges had a great time. She said, “I was very grateful that I could participate in this Zumbathon and contribute to helping the orphanage in Mexico. After seeing the video, it made me realize how thankful I am for the life, family and friends I have. We all are very blessed!” Such was the response to and success of the May 14 event that the next Zumba 4A Cause is planned for October 15. Ladies , mark you calendars now and

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Know How to Zumba 4A Cause Written By: Cheryl Johnston

in August check the website, www. Moms4Him.com, to download the participation forms. Moms4Him is a group founded in January 2007 by director Polly Herrin because she wanted to encourage women in their roles as wives, mothers, and homemakers. She and Torrey, her husband of 18 years have two children and have worked together in full-time ministry for 16 years. They currently serve as the Executive Pastors at PCCoG. The group has grown from the original 21 members that met in the Herrin home to several times that many now meeting monthly. Additionally, Moms4Hims hosts other events such as Prayer Walks, Bible studies, Girls Night Out, and fun excursions that women enjoy. They also minister to hospitalized children and their mothers with the Hugs for Moms visitation program. Through Biblical scriptures and life experiences, these women have a serious goal: “To prepare our families for eternity.” Another convenient way that Polly encourages women in their faith walk is through her blog. In her online journal entitled, Things I’ve Learned Along the Way, visitors can access more than 400

entries to find answers on issues that many face. Polly describes herself as “… just an ordinary woman who serves an EXTRA-ORDINARY God!” At 42,

The Instructors kept everyone on there toes, literally. Photo courtesy of Polly Herrin

Karson Herrin and Haley Sumner take a break from their workout to smile for the camera. Photo courtesy of Polly Herrin

Moms4Him meets the last Sunday monthly at PCCoG, 2103 Mud Lake Road. Meetings are open to any woman who desires to grow deeper in Christ. For more information, send an email to p.herrin@pccog.com, visit www. moms4him.com, or phone the church at 813-754-2591.

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

allyoucanfitinonecup for only

2406 James L. Redman Prkwy. (By Beef’s) Good only 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday Expires July 31, 2011

33% off 1 hour Jump at BOING!!! ONLY $8 Good for up to 4 SPRINGERS! MUST present coupon at check –in MUST have valid, completed participant agreement. Expires 8-25-11

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Local » Focus

Governor Rick Scott Welcomed in Republican Club of Plant City well represented Tampa Written By: Cheryl Johnston

Governor Rick Scott addressed the annual Hillsborough County GOP’s Lincoln Day Dinner guests in early May to share the news of progress and successes in Tallahassee.

The Republican Club of Plant City was well represented. President MarDee Buchman reported, “The Hillsborough County Republican Party’s Lincoln Day Dinner was a huge success. We had the largest turnout ever with over 650 in attendance. Plant City Republicans play a very active role in the County party.” The May 7 event at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay proved also to be a financial success for the party overall. Approximately $200,000 was raised through individual tickets sales of $125 each for diners. Many Republican leaders attended including U.S. Representative Gus Bilirakis and state Senate President Mike Haridopolos. Mark Rubio could not attend but encouraged the crowd through a videotaped message.

Governor Scott and his good news were well received. He enjoyed praising this legislative session in which Florida trimmed the budget. The people want smaller government, lower taxes, and less state regulation. Scott wants to deliver. He called the just-approved state budget a good accomplishment and believes, ““We’ve changed the direction of the state… We can all be proud of what’s happened this session.” He also expects that Florida will become a model for the rest of the nation in the fight to turn America around.

Attorney General Pam Bondi followed Scott’s lead and shared other great words about recent successful legislation. HB 7095, known as the “Anti-Pill Mill Bill, takes a tough stand on doctors and pain clinics that prescribe pain killers in numbers unjustifiable for legitimate medical use. Florida has been recognized as the epicenter for pill mills. At least seven Floridians die each day as a result of prescription drug overdoses. Bondi is

determined to fight this deadly epidemic and has been lauded for the results. Another point that drew an excited response from the crowd was the state litigation aimed at defeating “Obamacare.” Bondi promised, “We will not forfeit our rights to an unconstitutional health care takeover.” The Republican Club of Plant City is open to registered Republicans. Membership in the “grass-roots organization of like-minded individuals who adhere to the principals of the Republican National Committee and the Republican Party of Florida costs $40. The group meets the 4th Tuesday monthly at Buddy Freddys, 1101 Goldfinch Drive (just south of I-4) at 7:15 a.m. for the breakfast buffet ($10 for members / $15 for non-members). The business portion of the meeting begins at 7:30 a.m.

Plant City residents who are members of the County Party’s Executive Board include Vice-Chair Art Wood, Treasurer Josh Burgin, and State Committeewoman Tina Pike. Current officers of our local club are: MarDee Buchman, President; Mayor Dan Raulerson, VicePresident; Joshua Burgin, Treasurer; and Peggy H. Smith, Secretary. For additional information or to get involved, visit www. republcanpartyofplantcity.org or Facebook. For quick answers to your questions, phone MarDee Buchman at 813-754-5018 or e-mail mbuch@ tampabay.rr.com. This club is a fun and friendly way to engage in lively discussions and to make your voice be heard on issues of public policy. You will also hear firsthand from those who help to make it.

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

Local » Focus different vendors paid off, because our choice abundantly exceeded my expectations.

FOCUSTV’s shana mitchell offers wedding tips I

The words “relaxing” and “wedding planning” normally are not mentioned in the same sentence, but for me these terms fit when it came to making our wedding favors. What better way to relieve stress than with a nice glass of wine... something that tastes even better when you make it yourself. For our wedding favors, we made our very own wines at Bootleggers in Brandon. At the one-stop shop for homemade beer and wine, we selected ingredients for a merlot and riesling. With the help of owners Carol and Darcy, we mixed the components. Four weeks later we returned to “bottle and cork”, and left with labels to customize with our picture

that added the finishing touch to our personalized creations. Since the wedding, we’ve received raves about the taste and creativity of our favors. The biggest compliment has been seeing our empty bottles on display in the homes of friends and family. My final piece of advice is to add personal touches. Those make all the difference. Your wedding day is a reflection of the love you share with your soon-to-be spouse. Through it all, the purpose of the occasion is to celebrate the unity of marriage with those who know and love you both. During wedding plans, remember that and let the rest fall into place. Since June 10th, I have fallen into a beautiful new place, one that brings with it the best role yet... WIFE!

written By: Shana Mitchell

started working at FOCUS in March for a week full of continuous Strawberry Festival coverage. Since then, I have met many of you while reporting different community events for FOCUSTV and managing accounts for the magazine. You may not know that I was also a USF Student, Tampa Bay Lightning Cheerleader, and mother to the most charismatic three-year-old in the world. Until recently, another role in my repertoire of activities has been wedding planner! Having the experience of orchestrating, organizing and financially finagling life’s most profound event, I am here to share with you my wedding planning tips, describe details of my big day and introduce myself to you as... Shana MITCHELL! I bet you didn’t know that it takes at least 8 hours of listening to music to find a first dance song, 19 trips to the craft department for perfect centerpiece materials, and 3 shots of espresso to get through the day. My number one piece of advice is: anticipate things taking longer than they should. Start planning early. The six months of planning my husband Ryan and I had flew by.

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Be open minded. In December, I established our wedding colors as brown and turquoise. By April, they were pink and purple... talk about a chromatic 180! The great thing about the change is that the new colors better reflected my personality. The pink and purple bridal party attire, scattered flowers, and wall lighting painted the night sassy, and that is very me! My advice: go with the flow. If changes must be made, embrace rather than resist. The way it works out is usually better than the original plan anyway. My next piece of advice is to shop many different vendors before booking. When it came to the catering, time after time, one company’s name was recommended. I met them many months before my wedding at a bridal show. With delicious shrimp pancake samples and friendly smiles, they made a great impression. It was no surprise that on the night of our wedding the chicken piccata pleased the crowd. However it was a surprise to see the owner, Steve Gonzalez make a personal visit. Catering By The Family’s superb level of service along with the lovely table linens, cake, an ice sculpture and chocolate fountain, made me realize the caterer can provide so much more than just food. Carefully considering

Bootleggers Beer and Wine Home Brewing 650 Oakfield Dr. Brandon, FL. 33511 813-643-WINE (9463)

Catering By The Family 2322 W. Cypress St. Tampa, FL. 33609 813-875-2000

WALDEN LAKE CAR WASH AND SERVICE CENTER 1414 S. Alexander St | 813-752-7226 | www.waldenlakecarwash.com

WOW!

EVERY DAY IS LADIES DAY!

ALL WOMEN RECEIVE

$3 OFF

Car wash, vacuum and windows!

$7.00 any day, any time

ANY SERVICE FOR MENTIONING THIS AD

*Discount will not apply to any service under $10.00

NEW SUMMER HOURS MON-SAT 8AM-6PM CLOSED SUNDAYS

HAND WAX

$29.95

Expires 8/15/11

X-FACTOR YOUTH GROUP OF HOPEWELL BAPTIST CHURCH FUND RAISER $3.00 Donation Per Service

For any car wash or auto service, Walden Lake Car Wash & Service Center will donate $3.00 to help fund Hopewell Baptist Church’s Youth Group/Mission Trip at University of North Greenville in Greenville, S.C. (This offer is valid June 15-August 15)

50% OFF Any Car Wash with Full Service Oil Change

Walden Lake Car Wash and Service Center 1414 S. Alexander St | 813-752-7226 | www.waldenlakecarwash.com *No extra charge for SUV’s, pickup trucks, or vans! *We honor all competitor coupons/specials on car washes

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Local » Focus As the almost 2,300 link paper chain representing Tiger students’ acts of kindness was carried in to surround and be intertwined among attendees, the song “You Lift Me Up” brought tears to many eyes. Plant City’s own Jaclyn Raulerson, the reigning Miss Florida whose platform is bullying, delivered a very powerful personal testimony about what she endured in middle school. You could have heard a pin drop among the very respectful 1,500 in attendance who gave her undivided attention. Hope Lewis and Bryson Keel gave a topnotch performance of “Get Back Up.” It couldn’t have gone any better for a first time event.” Abby Miller, 8th grader, agreed: “It was fun making new friends and doing things that really made a difference, like buying meals for families and writing kind notes to teachers!! It was great being part of something so cool and seeing it make our school better!”

L to R: Randy Humphrey, Principal Susan Sullivan, Di Lott, Miss Florida - Jaclyn Raulerson, Dan Raulerson, and Kim Cotnoir are encouraged by community response to Rachel’s Challenge.

Chain Reaction “W written By: Aldo Trevino

e exist to inspire, equip and empower every person to create a permanent positive culture change in their school, business and community by starting a chain reaction of kindness and compassion.” This mission statement, inspired by one passionate young individual’s life and words, are having great impact in our town. Rachel Scott was the first killed during the Columbine High School student violence massacre on April 20, 1999. Her acts of kindness, along with entries in her six diaries, have become the foundation for one of America’s most life-changing school programs. Tomlin Middle School has embraced Rachel’s Challenge. To date the organization has reached thousands of schools through large venue seminars, delivering Rachel’s compassionate message to more than 11,000,000 people. The program has also prevented several documented violent acts and hundreds of suicides have been averted. Tomlin’s principal Susan Sullivan knew

immediately this influence would be great for her school, so PTSA teachers and parents worked together to establish Rachel’s Challenge here. Kim Cotnoir chaired the program introduced last fall. On June 8, 2011 students rallied to make T-shirts and signs announcing that violence will not be tolerated in their school and community. Di Lott, local volunteer and mother of four, knows how crucial the middle school years are in a child’s development and selfperception. About the Chain Reaction Club, she said: “The club presents a great opportunity to change everyone’s perception of middle school to a positive one, as so many parents are nervous about the transition from elementary school. We want students to make positive decisions and to demonstrate that it’s just as easy to be nice as it is to be mean, but it’s so much more rewarding to be nice. As Rachel’s sister, Dana Scott, told me, ‘The results of their positive actions are not immediate. So many may not realize how influential their actions are.’ “ Sullivan couldn’t have been more pleased about the rally. She commended Paul

Davis and the Strawberry Festival organization for their gracious allowance of the Expo Hall, saying, “We were celebrating the year’s successes and this was a first for us to have room for all our students, teachers, and parents in one gathering. We can’t wait to see what this next year holds.” Lott added, “The Tomlin band and chorus were superb, providing that initial uplifting momentum we needed.

In one of her journals, Rachel Scott wrote: “My definition of compassion is forgiving, loving, helping, leading, and showing mercy for others. I have this theory that if one person can go out of their way to show compassion, then it will start a chain reaction of the same. People will never know how far a little kindness can go.” Tomlin Middle School is doing all it can to find out.

2,300 links in the paper chain represent 2,300 acts of kindness by TMS students. foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

O’Neal & Sons Upholstery

Quality Craftsmanship Spanning 4 Generations

We specialize in everything from Automotive, Marine, Home Furniture and Commercial Applications AUTOMOTIVE

Seats and cushions • Carpets • Headliners • Door Panels Convertible tops • Vinyl tops • Tonneau Covers

HOME FURNITURE

Couches • Love seats • Chairs • Bar stools

MARINE

Seats and cushions • Carpets • Bimini Tops • Clear plastic Windows T-Top canvas replacements • Console and boat covers

COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS

Restaurant Booths and Chairs • Bar Railings • Long Wall Seats Custom Golf Cart Seats • Pool and Spa Areas • Customized Seating

2303 James Redman Pkwy., Suite G • Plant City, FL 33563 Phone: (813)-752-0405 • onealandsons@verizon.net www.onealandsons.net

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

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Since 1946

www.willifordflooring.com

Local » Focus

Kathy Amick, Guidance; Sherrie Mueller, College and Career Counselor; Stephanie Kovacs, Toni Griffin, Guidance Department Chair; Traci Durrance, Assistant Principal of Administration. Back: Leslie Rice, teacher; Milka Vargas, Guidance; Kerri Grosso, Teacher & Volleyball Coach

Plant CityforHigh School holds Special Graduate Battling Cancer Ceremony P written By: Sherrie Mueller

lant City High School held graduation for approximately 450 graduates on June 7 at the Expo Hall at the State Fairgrounds in Tampa. One honor student was unable to attend as she was very sick at All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg. Stephanie Kovacs was diagnosed on April 27 with non-Hodgkin lymphoma and had developed an infection preventing her from attending graduation with her classmates. In her honor many students wore lime green ribbons in their hair – the color for Stephanie’s type of cancer. When her name was called on June 7 Stephanie’s classmates stood and clapped in her honor but she was not there to walk across the stage and receive her diploma. Stephanie’s brother, Alex, attended the graduation and made a video for Stephanie to watch later. School officials wanted to award Stephanie’s diploma to her personally. Eva Kovacs Northcutt, Stephanie’s aunt, contacted Sherrie Mueller, College and Career Counselor asking for options of ways Stephanie could receive her

diploma. Plans were soon underway to have a special graduation ceremony just for Stephanie upon her release from the hospital.

On June 16 eighteen year old Stephanie was honored with a graduation ceremony in a private banquet room at the Red Rose Inn and Suites. Red Rose Dining Room had decorated the room with the school colors of orange and teal. Ten to twelve of her fellow graduates were in their caps and gowns and marched in twos ahead of her as “Pomp and Circumstance” played. When Stephanie entered the room donned in her cap and gown classmates, family and friends applauded and cheered. Many were wiping tears of happiness. Stephanie walked to the front of the room where school officials were waiting to make the presentation. Sherrie Mueller gave the official welcome and announced emphatically the presentation of the diploma to Stephanie Amber Kovacs. Assistant Principal, Traci Durrance presented the diploma. Plant City High School Guidance Department

Chair, Toni Griffin conferred the degree and announced that Stephanie could change the side of her tassel and she was now an official graduate of Plant City High School. Ms. Durrance spoke to the group about the outstanding contributions of the Class of 2011. She said, “We can honestly say that this class is the best. They have shined all year

and have been role models for others.” Students, friends and family cheered and rushed to congratulate the newest grad. Stephanie’s father, Johnny Kovacs said he appreciated the support shown to his daughter. He and Stephanie’s mother, Sharon Kovacs hosted a buffet lunch at the Red Rose Dining Room for all that attended.

Students enjoying lunch after the ceremony Stephanie Kovacs, Megan Bradshaw, Brooke Allie. foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

Local » did you know

Ellis-Methvin Park: Past, Present, Future P

submitted By: Plant City Photo Archives & History Center

ast the Hillsborough Community College campus on Cherry Street sits a new sports and recreational park. Ellis-Methvin Park is home to eight tennis courts, four baseball fields, and soon to be eight soccer fields. Complementing those sports facilities is a foot trail that runs along an “L” shaped pond, as well as a playground and a few picnic pavilions (City of Plant City, 2011). The aforementioned description tells of the present state of Ellis-Methvin Park; however, for one to understand how this park came to be, one must learn the history of the property that the park grounds now occupy. To trace the park’s roots to the beginning, one has to start with the Ellis family in Plant City. The Ellis family moved to Florida from Georgia in 1820. The land on which EllisMethvin Park now sits was purchased by the Ellis family circa 1880. Ashley Arthur (A.A.) Ellis, one of the original members of the Plant City Growers Association, was born in the Willow Oak community of Polk County. He was one of the first farmers to ship strawberries out of Plant City via the Plant railroad system in 1893 (Bruton & Bailey, Jr., 1984, p. 139). A.A. Ellis was the grandfather of Dr. Roy Ellis, who ultimately sold the

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

land on which Ellis-Methvin Park currently stands. Dr. Roy Ellis married Bonnie Methvin of Plant City before fighting in World War II. After his service in the armed forces, he attended the University of Florida. Following his studies in Gainesville, Dr. Roy Ellis enrolled at Georgetown University School of Dentistry, where he obtained his degree in the discipline. After graduating from Georgetown in 1950, Dr. Roy Ellis began practicing dentistry back in his home state of Florida, first in Orlando for a year until settling with an office in Plant City for almost thirty years. His office was originally located by the old Hillsborough State Bank, and later he moved it nearby the South Florida Baptist Hospital. Bonnie Methvin, one of seven children, married Roy Ellis in 1942 and was by his side during his time in the military and while he pursued his studies. Mrs. Bonnie Methvin Ellis’s father, James Robert Methvin, ran a shoe store from 1922 until 1954 across the street from McCrory’s, while her mother took over operations from 1954 to 1962. It should also be noted that orange groves were present on the Ellis property while the property was under the ownership of Dr. Roy and Bonnie M. Ellis. After the orange grove business was not going well for the

family, Matthew Ellis, a real estate agent and the youngest son of Bonnie Methvin Ellis and Dr. Roy Ellis, convinced his parents to sell the land. When the City of Plant City appeared interested, the Ellis family sold the land for a suitable price. Furthermore, they donated a generous sum to help bring the park to fruition. The land that belonged to the Ellis family for over a century was now in the hands of the city, which was tasked with planning the development of what today is Ellis-Methvin Park. The park experienced many expansions, as well as a minor setback over the last decade. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program awarded Plant City a $200,000 grant in 2006 that was geared toward “the construction of a central playground, three pavilions and an aluminum fishing pier” (The Tampa Tribune, 2007). In the summer of 2007, the State of Florida selected Ellis-Methvin Park to receive another $200,000 grant to improve “the 46-acre site, which is also the home of the $1.5 million Plant City Tennis Center” (The Tampa Tribune, 2007). The City of Plant City agreed to match the state grant to expand the park for the benefit of the

community. The enhancements paid for with the collected grant funds included a baseball and softball field, a parking lot, a walking trail, landscaping around the trail, and a facility containing restrooms. Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Michael Sole said of the grant, “Setting aside recreational green spaces within Florida’s local communities is imperative to land conservation and essential to creating strong communities” (The Tampa Tribune, 2007). In the fall of 2009, Plant City canceled the plan to build a pier on the pond in Ellis-Methvin Park because of problems with received bids. At that time, Plant City Recreation and Parks Department Director Jack Holland told The Tampa Tribune that the funds originally allocated for the pier were going to be spent on other projects for the park. Ellis-Methvin Park’s development has spanned the mayoral terms of John L. Dicks, Rick A. Lott, and Dan Raulerson. Also, former City Manager David Sollenberger “guided” the growth of the park while he was in office (The Tampa Tribune, 2010). In April, 2010, the President of the Plant City Optimist Club, Michael Williamson, gave the city $20,000 on behalf of the club to be used to buy and set up conveniences for the playground at EllisMethvin Park, such as “concession stands and equipment, benches and other amenities” (The Tampa Tribune, 2010). The club also agreed to contribute $10,000 in April 2011 and $10,000 in April 2012 for the same cause. In exchange for the charitable gift, the city accepted recognizing the Optimist Club through signage around the playground in the park. The article mentions that the playground “was constructed with a matching grant from the state Land and Water Conservation Fund” (The Tampa Tribune, 2010). In summary, the land on which EllisMethvin Park rests has drastically changed since it was first homesteaded by the Ellis family in the 19th century. Thanks to the Ellis family’s sale of the property, for an appropriate price, coupled with their bestowed funds to begin working towards the end goal of a park suitable for all sorts of activities, today Ellis-Methvin Park is a treat for Plant City residents and visitors alike. With an expansion at work, as of this moment (five soccer fields), Ellis-Methvin Park is sure to be a much utilized and appreciated public treasure for years to come. Sources: Mrs. Bonnie Ellis, personal interview; Plant City Courier & Tribune; The Tampa Tribune; Plant City Photo Archives & History Center; Quintilla Geer Bruton and David E. Bailey, Jr., Plant City: Its Origin and History, Hunter Publishing Company, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, 1984; The City of Plant City, (2011). Retrieved June 9, 2011, from http://www.plantcitygov.com/index. aspx?nid=724

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

LocaL » chamBer of commerce

greAter PLAnt city

We are into the middle of summer and vacations will soon be over and people will start planning events for fall and winter.

Since many individuals from outside our area as well as Plant City residents call the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce to find out what events are scheduled, the Chamber maintains a COMMUNITY CALENDAR OF EVENTS. By calling the Chamber office (813-754-3707) you can have your upcoming event listed on this calendar. This not only lets people know what your group or organization is planning, but it is also a sure fire way of heading off competing with another event that may be taking place the same day. Keeping this calendar up to date is a big undertaking and the Chamber staff does a great job; however, the calendar will only be as good as your organization helps to make it. Considering the vast number of events and meetings scheduled throughout the year, everyone’s cooperation is vital to ensuring the calendar’s accuracy. Once your event is registered, please update the Chamber office with any changes, for example, date, time and location. The Chamber staff will then make these corrections. If you prefer, you can send all pertinent information via e-mail to info@plantcity. org or fax it to 813-652-8793. It can also be mailed to Community Calendar, Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box CC, Plant City, FL 33564. Your event information should contain the following: Name of Event Date and Time Location Sponsoring Organization Brief Description Contact name and telephone number for further information (this is important) Should you have any questions about this Calendar of Events, please call the Chamber office at 813-754-3707. ********** If you still have your copy of the June 15th issue of FOCUS, please read the

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

chamBer of commerce suBmitted By: BruCe rodWell

article on page 54. This is the story of a very courageous lady. Kudos to FOCUS Magazine for allowing her to be a participant in the “Focus On Makeover” program. Vicki Hannah was a very special lady. Plant City Recreation & Parks have several interesting programs on tap for summer. The TENNIS CENTER will be offering lessons for tots (ages 4-7) and Beginners (ages 8-18) from July 25 to August 11. Registration for each session ends July 18. Sessions will be held Monday & Wednesday or Tuesday & Thursday. Cost is only $25 for Tots (8:15- 8:45 AM) and $50 for Beginners (9-10 AM). Plant City has a great tennis facility for the whole family to enjoy. Info flyers are available at the Tennis Center. For more information on all the Plant City Tennis Center has to offer, contact tennis professional C. Shane Johnson at sjohnson@plantcitygov.com or call the Tennis Center at 813-707-7485. The Plant City Skate Park will be open all summer! The 8,500 square feet facility is located inside Mike Sansone Park and will be open and staffed, weather permitting, Monday-Friday from 8-11 AM and from 3-9 PM. The Skate Park is closed between 11 AM and 3 PM. Weekend hours are Saturday and Sunday from 1-9 PM. Users must have a city-issued Skate Park photo ID and sign a release waiver. Single visit day passes are also available at the Skate Park for only $3.00. For more information contact the Recreation & Parks administration office at 813-659-4255.

You will not want to miss PLANT CITY ENTERTAINMENT’S presentation of “A Funny Think Happened On The Way To The Forum” on July 16 at 8 PM and on the 17th. at 2 PM. The performance will be at their playhouse, 101 Thomas Street in downtown Plant City. ********** It’s time to sign up for the Greater Plant City Chamber’s LEADERSHIP PROGRAM. The goal of this great tuition-based program is to prepare current and future leaders of the Plant City area for decisions that must be made as our city grows and develops. The program is under the direction of the Chamber Board and is managed by Leadership Class Alumni and coordinated by Marion Smith, Chamber President and her staff. Call the Chamber office at 813-754-3707 for additional information. ********** During the month of August DINOSAUR WORLD is having “Double Dino Days”. What this means is that with every full paid admission in August you will receive a free ticket to come in December (excluding Christmas Day). Great place to take the kids. ********** Don’t forget the Bike Fest on August 6th in downtown Plant City from 5 to 9 PM. Great family fun.

In August the Recreation & Parks ********** Department will hold its 15th Annual Youth Fishing Derby, a catch and release event. Participation is free and allows area youth to fish in the pond behind the Randy Larson Four-Plex off Gordon Foods Service Drive. Watch for the date of this fun-filled event. Call Program Manager Deborah Haldane, 813-659-4200 ext. 4302, or e-mail her at dhaldane@plantcitygov. com .

On Wednesday, August 10th the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce will host the Annual Agricultural CONTACT BREAKFAST at the Red Rose Inn & Suites. Cost of the breakfast is $15. This gets underway at 7:30 AM. Call the Chamber office to RSVP 813-754-3707. ********** On August 20th the Strawberry Classic Car show comes to McCall Park from 4 to 9 PM. ********** Please make note of some upcoming dates for your calendars: September 24th - Plant City Garden Club’s 3rd Annual GARDENFEST at the Train Depot in McCall Park. Call 813-752-9363 for information. October 1st - The 9th Anniversary Plant City Bike Fest will take place in downtown Plant City. October 22nd - “PLANTACIOUS’ Fall Festival, Antiques & Crafts Marketplace in downtown Plant City. November 12th - The “Empty Bowls Project” to benefit the United Food Bank of Plant City will be held in McCall Park. November 19th - The Chamber’s 9th Annual PIG JAM. Save the date and watch for further information. ********** SUPPORT YOUR PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERS PATRONIZE & SHOP WHERE YOU SEE THE SIGN MEMBER GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

**********

www.PLantcity.org

chamBer riBBon cuttings Aaron Security & Protection Phone: (813) 441-4533 WebSite: www.aaronsecurity.com Email: aaronsecurityprotection@ hotmail.com Contact: David Overstreet

FEATURING OUR UNIQUE PRODUCE CLUB Fresh, healthy produce delivered right to your door On a weekly/bi-weekly schedule. Serving Plant City, Apollo Beach, South Tampa, Wesley Chapel and more!

Isn’t it beautiful? Let’s keep it that way!

LANCASTER FARMS ADT Security Services 5471 West Waters Avenue Suite 1000 Tampa, Fl 33634-1257 Phone: (813) 830-2400 Email: nhiggins@adt.com Contact: Neil B. Higgins

Peyton & Associates, Inc. Phone: (813) 380-5437 Email: dennispeyton@tampabay.rr.com Contact: Dennis Peyton

Westshore Pizza #44 1701 South Alexander Street Suite 108 Plant City, FL 33566-0965 Phone: (813) 754-5600 WebSite: www.westshorepizza.com Contact: Hany Hosny & Cheryl Hosny

(813) 482-2008

WWW.LANCASTERFARM.NET

You see them in T.V. commercials and in magazines!

ASHLEY YAMNITZ

BRENDAN BLANCO

JILL JONES

Publix Supermarkets Print Ad ($500 for 2 Days)

Principal Actor in a National TV Commercial for the 2010 Census

Publix Supermarkets Print Ad ($500 for 2 Days)

CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!

($7,500 in residuals)

They’re the JESS ANDERSON MODELS!

All ages & types needed • No experience necessary • Free training

863-688-9939 1037 SOUTH FLORIDA AVENUE, SUITE 115 • LAKELAND, FL 33803 LIC#1290000013

ANSLEY PLEMONS

AVERY HOWARD

LINDSIE HERRING

Paul Mitchell Hair Show Presentation Featured Model, The Lakeland Ledger Print Ad and Bealls Dept. Store Easter Fashion Show Principal Role.

Disney World ($600 A Day) Geico ($450 A Day) Lakeland Chamber of Commerce

Publix Supermarkets Print Ad ($500 for 2 Days)

www.jessandersontalentandmodelagency.com

Jess Anderson index pg JULY11.indd 1

6/9/2011 6:52:21 PM

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

ALL BRAND’S AVAILABLE!

COMPLETE TIRE AND AUTO CARE

Firestone Goodyear Michelin Bridgestone and many more! Alignments Tune-Ups Wheel Balancing Shocks Brakes Computer Diagnostics Transmission Repairs New Tires Oil & Filter Changes A/C & more

Locally owned and operated by Chuck Struth

FARM SERVICE EQUIPMENT AND SEMI TIRE SERVICES AS WELL!

12 MONTHS SAME AS CASH AVAILABLE

813-759-TIRE (813-759-8473) 600 S Collins St Mon-Fri 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. chuckstire@verizon.net

LAST STOP HEALTH AND WEIGHT LOSS SOLUTIONS

We are looking for 8-10 COMMITTED individuals or couples who want long-term RESULTS by participating in a 12-week comprehensive health and weight loss program. Through the guidance of a personal trainer and weight loss consultant with 30 years of proven success, each person will receive a custom plan tailored to their speciﬁc needs, abilities and schedule.

Personal Coaching includes: personal training • diet analysis • daily support and much more Last Stop’s comprehensive program is for individuals who want to take the weight off permanently. If you’ve used pills, drinks, and potions to lose weight only to gain it back again, it is time for your last stop on the weight loss journey... a place to keep the weight off for life.

The difference is our well-rounded approach that provides you with methods, tips, and tools to succeed at a healthy every day life. Are you ready to increase your metabolism, obtain optimal health and be in the best shape of your life?

Learn how to make the LAST STOP on the road to better health by calling today for your FREE, no pressure consultation. Introductory prices are being offered for a limited time only.

813-719-3244

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Before Liposuction

Call Today to Schedule Your

FREE Consultation

813.438.4680

After Liposuction

As appreciation for being a Focus Magazine reader, PREMIERE Center for Cosmetic Surgery is offering

500 OFF

Any Cosmetic Surgery Procedure PREMIERE Center is the pioneer of affordable, safe, high-quality, patient-focused cosmetic surgery. Join the thousands of people from all over who have experienced the difference.

www.PREMIERECENTER.com | 300 S. Hyde Park Avenue, Suite 100, Tampa, FL 33606 Limited Time Only. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Business Focus

Showcasing our neightborhood businesses

Central Florida Equine Associates

Jarrett-Scott Ford Quick Lane

Park Place

Red Rose Inn and Suites

- Page 50 -

- Page 52 -

- Page 51 -

- Page 54 -

(This is a paid advertising section)

Business Focus

Central Florida Equine Associates Dr. Britt and Dr. Porter

813-752-0224 914 East Knights Griffin Road Plant City, FL Hours: Monday-Friday from 8a.m.-5p.m www.cfequine.com horse’s life was taken due to a severe case of colic that she realized that veterinary medicine was her true passion. She recalled, “I will never forget the dedication and sympathy shown by the vets that cared for my horse; their teamwork was something I admired and wanted to exemplify as a veterinarian someday.” Dr. Porter’s passion is for horses, whether it be caring for the backyard pleasure horse or maintaining the equine athlete, she adores it all. Her veterinary interests include reproduction/breeding, lameness, internal medicine as well as preventative healthcare. With the most current and up-to-date knowledge acquired from North Carolina State University, Dr. Porter will prove to be a valuable and enthusiastic addition to Central Florida Equine Associates.

Dr. Larry Britt and Dr. Carrie Porter from Central Florida Equine Associates

recent methods in animal healthcare offered by Dr. Porter. Treating large animals, this facility offers many services. Routine healthcare, equine dentistry, and 24 hour emergency care to name a few. Central Florida Equine Associates will now be offering more options for “in-house” services including reproduction/breeding. Use of portable equipment including Ultrasound and Digital Radiology are available in Central Florida Equine Associates will the field or in-house. be utilizing the knowledge that years of experience has taught Dr. Britt in Dr. Britt recently welcomed Dr. Cartandem with the most innovative and rie Porter in joining the practice and stablished in 1969 by Dr. Larry Britt, Road Runner Vet Clinic is undergoing many exciting changes. Now known as Central Florida Equine Associates, this growing practice is proud to welcome Dr. Carrie Porter to their team. There are many renovations underway and exciting new services to be offered.

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

expanding on the current veterinary services provided. Dr. Porter first heard about Dr. Britt from a fellow veterinarian who spoke highly of his enthusiasm for veterinary medicine and particularly, equine dentistry. Intrigued by the many services he provided and the array of animals he treated, she spent the following summers gaining valuable experience to ultimately attend the College of Veterinary medicine at North Carolina State University. Throughout her life, Dr. Porter expressed a general love of animals but it wasn’t until her own

Central Florida Equine Associates will be hosting monthly educational seminars covering important topics in large animal veterinary practice. The first seminar, “Equine Herpes Virus: Outbreaks and the Effect on your Horse,” is scheduled for Thursday, July 14, 2011 at 7:00 pm. Each seminar will be hosted at the clinic with refreshments provided. Additional topics and educational seminars will be listed in the monthly newsletter schedule. Central Florida Equine Associates is located at 914 East Knights Griffin Road in Plant City. Their new website, www.cfequine.com, will be up and running soon. Appointments may be scheduled Monday-Friday from 8a.m.-5p.m by calling 813-752-0224; however, if you have an emergency after hours, someone is always on call to help.

Business Focus

Quick Lane Tire and Auto Center at Jarrett-Scott Ford

All of your auto service needs under one roof!

813-757-6429 www.JarrettScottFord.com 2000 East Baker Street Plant City, FL 33563 Service Hours Monday-Friday 7am-7pm Saturday 7am-3pm price a week later, they can bring in the invoice from the other shop and we’ll still match the price.” Quick Lane also offers an unbeatable deal on oil changes, only $15 for most vehicles.

Service Center and customer lounge with window to view mechanics at work.

uick Lane, a franchise of the Ford Motor Company, is now available at Jarrett-Scott Ford. Their completely renovated Tire and Auto Center opened for business January 1, 2011. Vice President and General Manager Jim Scott explains, “We are a business inside of a business. Quick Lane is another service Ford offers, but not all Ford dealerships have it.” The new shop contains eight bays and five vehicle lifts to ensure expedited service. As you wait, view the progress of your vehicle through the observation window from the comfort of the vibrant customer lounge. Their new high-tech equipment, stocked inventory, and highly trained mechanical experts can accommodate all vehicle makes and models. Joining the dedicated staff of JarrettScott Ford is Quick Lane manager, Matt Alexander. Scott states, “We’re proud of our long term management

team; most have served here between 10 and 15 years. Since we’re beginning in this arena, we’ve brought in Matt Alexander. His experience in quick service has helped make our management team more well-rounded.” Ford repair shops were once centered around making repairs on vehicles still under warranty. However, a noticeable shift has occurred in the type of vehicle repairs. Scott believes this is due to Ford’s increase in quality. “In the past, our repair shops were filled with warranty work. Now, Ford vehicles are built so well that we are able to focus on quick service and maintenance.”

meet or beat any competitors price on brand name tires such as Goodyear, Continental, and Michelin to name a few. Still not convinced you’ve found a bargain? Make your new tire purchase with assurance from Scott, “Even if a customer buys tires and finds a better

A few of the many services offered at Quick Lane include: • Tires • Brakes • Oil Changes • Air Filters • Fuel Filters • Light Bulbs • Windshield Wipers Come experience the quality and convenience of life in the Quick Lane at Jarrett-Scott Ford. The knowledgeable and friendly staff is here to serve you evenings and weekends.

Quick Lane is challenging preconceived ideas that dealerships are expensive and time consuming when it comes to vehicle maintenance. With competitive prices, rapid service, and no appointment required, Quick Lane is second to none. Shopping around for the best price on tires? Look no further. Quick Lane guarantees that the company will

Newly renovated service center with bay lifts to accommodate all vehicle makes and models. foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

Business Focus

Park Place

Your New “Home Place” in Plant City

813-704-5924 OPEN Monday, Thursday, Friday 10-6, Saturday 11-5, Sunday 1-5, and by Appointment Tuesday & Wednesday Maggie Beard (813)299-7155 maggie.beard@floridamoves.com Maddie Alfred (813)382-8382 maddie.alford@floridamoves.com Lynne Halleran (813)763-1881 goldengirl@coldwellbanker.com Cindy Clark( 813)760-7957 cindy.clark@coldwellbanker.com water, fertilizer and pesticide costs, and the “Xeriscape” landscaping uses plants that flourish in our climate with little care. John Cordell, owner of JayCor Homes, has more than 30 years experience building locally. He gives personal interest and attention to each home built by his company. JayCor Homes has vast experience in custom homes, so design and floor plan changes can usually be made with little cost to the buyer.

JayCor also offers total customized / handicapped modified homes for just each home energy-efficient! All homes the extra cost of the 75 ft wide conservation view homeearching for a home with come with an individually registered sites, gorgeous signature hand built equipment and labor to install. If you convenient location, style, and solid brick arch kitchen, ceramic tile in ENERGY STAR Certificate. The know a disabled Vet or other person one that will save you money wet areas, solid surface counters, solid homes have an average HERS energy with physical limitiations needing a for years to come? Well, look no furindex rate of 60, which will lower your fine family home at a reasonable price, wood cabinets, ceiling fans, window ther! Your new home can be found at blinds, sprinkler system, big “rocking- monthly utility costs and easily home- send them to JayCor for a personal Park Place! The community’s entrance chair” front porches, and your choice owners over $1000 a year. (Most build- consultation! gate is located at 1809 North Gordon of 3 car garage OR 2 car garage AND ers only rate around 80 to 90.) Energy Street, just south of Frontage Rd, and saving features includes thermal low E If you are working with a real estate a 18 x 28 detached workshop, and less than 1 mile to I-4. double pane tinted windows, Energy much more! agent, make sure you ask them to take Star AC, foam filled block exterior you to Park Place! Values of these stunning homes range Do you want lower monthly utility walls, sealed and foamed attic, and a from the mid-$100 to mid-$200’s with costs and a higher future re-sale value? tank-less “instant on and instant off ” Or contact one of the fine Coldwell 3, 4 and 5 BR plans from 1,657 to JayCor Homes is a committed “Green” hot water heater. The full landscaping Banker agents listed above. 3,357 sq ft. Features INCLUDE huge builder and one dedicated to making package includes Bahia grass that saves

S 52

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

Business Focus

Red Rose Five Star Fine Dining and Entertainment

Featuring original artists throughout the decades • • • • • • • •

Ralph Alocco and Second Wind Destiny Free Time Jazz Bobby Blackmon Troy “Satchmo” Anderson- salute to the songs of Louie “Satchmo” Armstrong Walt Maddox- salute to the songs of Nat King Cole Bob Ryman “The Fiddler” Bobby Palermo

In addition to annual events and weekly dinner shows, in 2012 the Red Rose is expanding entertainment options by hosting a concert series that tributes the 1950’s and 1960’s Doo Wop era. Inspired by various appearances on Public Broadcasting Station Specials, Scarlett Marketing and Promotional Productions presents original artists in the upcoming Doo Wop Weekend Volume VI and PBS Memories Concert Series. A combination of Pop, Rock, and Soul will serenade listeners as all original artists bring back the best sounds and memories of the 50’s and 60’s. Doo Wop Weekend Volume VI and PBS Memories Concert Series Performances:

n an elegant atmosphere where five star dining meets entertainment, enjoy an unforgettable evening at the Red Rose Dining Room. Guests have the opportunity to get up close with their favorite original artists they grew up listening to. More than just a dinner show, Red Rose entertainment offers Contemporary and Las Vegas style music that is sure to make your evening a dining experience.

raiser Dinner Show in the luxurious Ball Room, November 12, 2011. Entertainment includes a Las Vegas style show “salute” group featuring songs of the Platters, Drifters and Coasters.

Get in the sprit with featured holiday dinner shows “A Mystical Holiday Serenade” and “Winter Wonderland Gala” hosted in the spectacular Red Rose Ballroom, December 2011. Performing in the “Winter Wonderland Gala” is 1950’s pop music quartet, The Treat yourself and support St. Jude’s by Four Aces. In the dining room, rock attending the annual St. Jude’s Fundto the beat of The Mystics performing

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

“A Mystical Holiday Serenade”. Then, ring in the 2012 New Year with the world renowned Platters Show in the dinning room and The Legacy of the Temptations a salute to The Temptations and The Platters in the Red Rose Ballroom. Every Friday and Saturday evening the Red Rose hosts a dinner show with various featured artists. Please check the entertainment schedule of the website to obtain information about upcoming shows featuring the following groups and artists:

Barbara Harris and the Toys: Offering a wide variety of musical genres including Gospel, R&B, Blues, Rock, and Pop this all girls group hit the charts in the mid 1960’s. Performing is original lead singer, Barbra Harris, who is known for chart topping hits “A Lover’s Concerto” and “Attack”. Jimmy Gallagher: Original lead singer of The Passions, is a legend of Doo Wop popular throughout the 1950’s and 1960’s. The group was widely known for their top 100 hit “Just to Be with You”.

813-752-3141 I-4 Exit 21 2011 N. Wheeler St. Plant City, FL 33563 www.redroseinnandsuites.com 2011 Dinner Show Schedule:

November 12, 2011 - St. Jude’s annual Fundraiser in the Ballroom December 16, 2011 - Winter Wonderland Gala featuring “The Four Aces” December 17, 2011 - A Mystical Holiday Serenade featuring “The Mystics” December 31, 2011 - New Years Eve with The World Famous Platters and the Legacy of the Temptations

2012 Dinner Show Schedule:

January 14th, 2012 - Ballroom Dinner show “The Contours” featuring Slyvester Potts February 19, 2012 - Ballroom Dinner Show featuring “The Vandells” February 25, 2012 - Ballroom Dinner Show featuring “The Hubcaps”

2012 Red Rose Doo Wop Weekend Volume VI: March 23, 2011 - Barbara Harris and the Toys, Jimmy Gallagher, and The Mystics

The Mystics: A Rock group who reached the top 20 national charts with their hit “Hushabye” in the 1950’s. They are also known for “White Cliffs of Dover” and “Don’t Take the Stars”. Performing are original lead singer and second tenor.

The Shades of Blue: Their biggest hit “Oh How Happy” reached #12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and Top 10 in Canada. They were known as “Motown’s Blue-eyed Soul Group” and became popular in the 1960’s.

The Legendary Teenagers: Rock musics first allteenage act gained success in the 1950’s with “Why Do Fools Fall in Love”. They became internationally known and inducted in the Rock N’ Roll Hall of Fame in 1993 followed by a star the following year on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame. Performing are two of the original teenagers.

Diamond “Dave” Somerville: Original lead voice of the Diamonds, Dave became an influence to Rock and Roll during the late 1950’s to early 1960’s. He has 16 Billboard hits including “Little Darlin” and “The Stroll”.

The Passions: Pop music group popular throughout the 1950’s and 1960’s. Gained popularity with hits such as “Just to Be with You”, “I Only Want You”, and “Made for Lovers”. The Marcels: Formed in the late 1950’s and popular throughout the 1960’s this Doo Wop group was known for turning classical Pop songs into Rock and Roll. Their “Blue Moon” record was awarded a gold disc and is featured in “The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Top 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll”.

The Reflections: Known as the “Deacon’s of Doo Wop” have been performing since the mid-1950’s. Their hit “( Just Like) Romeo and Juliet” reached #5 on pop charts and sales peaked at over four million. That’s not all! There are new and exciting shows every weekend at the Red Rose. For dinner show reservations, more shows, or information please visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com

March 24. 2011 - The Legendary Teenagers, Jimmy Gallagher, and the Mystics March 24, 2011 - Afternoon poolside party and car show with Doo Wop Boot Camp March 25, 2011 - Breakfast with the Stars

2012 PBS Doo Wop Memories Concert Series: April 14, 2012 - The Passions May 5th, 2012 - The Marcels June 23, 2012 - The Mystics September 22, 2012 - The Shades of Blue September 29, 2012 - The Mystics October 20, 2012- American Pops 60’s dinner show November 17, 2012- Diamond “Dave” Somerville December 8th - The Reflections December 15th - Mystical Doo Wop Christmas Show featuring “The Mystics”

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

5:00 p.m â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9:00 p.m. Wednesday Evenings

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

The Premier Showplace for Talent in Florida

JULY 15 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.

JULY 16, 29 & 30 RALPH ALLOCCO

AUGUST 20 LOLA & THE SAINTS

Doo Wop At Its Best! Relive the 50s & 60s as though it was yesterday. “Forever in Love,” “Just Over the Brooklyn Bridge.” Plus, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds.

& SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

JULY 29 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

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

JULY 22 RICHIE

MERRITT

Richie Merritt, formally of the Marcels, will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room. Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

AUGUST 5 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.

AUGUST 6, 12, 19 & 27 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

AUGUST 13 & 26 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

SEPTEMBER 2, 10, 17 & 23 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

SEPTEMBER 3 & 30 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

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

SEPTEMBER 24 THE MYSTICS

The Mystics, including, original members of the group, George Galfo and Phil Cracolici, will perform their hits, including their number one chart topper “Hushabye.” P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

Bring in this coupon to receive

OFF Your Entree

When you join us for

Dinner on Thursday Choose any entree from our menu

SEPTEMBER 9 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.

SEPTEMBER 16 RICHIE MERRITT

Richie Merritt, formally of the Marcels, will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room. Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

Good for Thursday nights only. Coupon expires - August 15, 2011 Must bring in this coupon for discount. One coupon per person / per check.

FCS

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

TEL: 813.752.3141

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

WWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COM

Mrs. Evelyn Madonia - Owner foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

TreaTing PaTienTs wiTh Care Physicians Doctors Diaz and Chandran are Providing a great experience Spotlight by Brian West Photos by Sophia Hyde

veryone is looking for quality health care, and it’s not always easy to

find. But two Brandon physicians recently teamed to help provide a better level of care for their patients. They believe they have the best team they’ve ever worked with and are working diligently to provide quality health care without sacrificing the patient’s experience to achieve great results. I recently had a few minutes to speak with Dr. Alejandro Diaz and Dr. Sumita Chandran and learn a little about each of them and their practice.

ConTinueD on Page 60

foCus: what Brought you to thE unitEd statEs? Dr. Diaz: Actually, ever since I was a child, I wanted to come to the United States. There were various reasons: there were a lot of restrictions, a shortage in medications for my patients, and I was working at a top hospital in Cuba. We had a good school of medicine, but we have a lot of technical issues with the equipment. So I decided to come here. Actually, my wife won the Visa lottery so my whole family was able to come. We came over in 1995. We had several friends here in Florida and we like the warm climate, so we decided to settle here. Dr. Chandran: I grew up in the city in India, so we had everything available there, but on my mother’s side of the family I had a lot of uncles who were physicians that lived here in the United States. I guess when they would visit us during summer vacations, the whole idea of America [and its opportunities] was always present with them. America offered greater prospects, and I just wanted to venture out and come to another country. We have a big family in India, and we have a relatively big family here in the United States also. So, I just wanted to come here for the opportunity. And now after coming here, I love it. I still visit India once a year and my parents come here to visit, but I guess I wanted to have the best of both worlds. So, I moved here in 1997.

Dr. Diaz

foCus: what do you Miss Most aBout hoME? Dr. Diaz: Everything - the beaches, the street

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

where I lived, and my neighborhood. I also miss the food, but we have good food here, too. I hope that Cuba will be free in the future. Dr. Chandran: The same thing. I grew up there so all of my memories are there - my home, my family, and my relatives.

foCus: whErE did you gEt your intErEst in MEdiCinE? Dr. Chandran: My family. On my mother’s side, there are a lot of doctors. As I grew up, I saw them a lot. Also, in school I was interested in biology and living things. Dr. Diaz: Since I was a child, I’ve always wanted to do something in the medical field. I love science, and the human body fascinates me. I’ve always had a desire for a vocation involving medicine.

foCus: what tyPE of MEdiCinE arE you PraCtiCing? Dr. Chandran: I am practicing internal medicine, which is mostly like primary care. We see a lot of the geriatric population, but our practice sees anyone 18 years of age and older. We can treat all chronic illnesses. Being a primary care physician, I think we concentrate a lot on prevention and screening tests so we don’t have issues later. So we concentrate on their blood work screening procedures and then try to educate the patient on what they can do to prevent it. Dr. Diaz: I am practicing family medicine, but mostly what we do here is internal medicine. We’re treating seniors and adults, basically anyone who is at least 18 years old. We’re treating all the chronic illnesses, as well as cardiac and respiratory. We concentrate on prevention, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. We’re treating a lot of patients for hypertension and diabetes.

PrimeCare Plant City welcomes you to stop by anytime to take a tour and meet the physicians and staff. Other than the doctors, the staff includes Rovena, Nellie, Amy, Tammy, Victoria, and Christina.

foCus: givEn your Cultural BaCKground, arE you finding that your PatiEnts arE PriMarily of a sPECifiC CliEntElE?

foCus: do you find yoursElf worKing with thE hosPital?

Dr. Diaz: Let me tell you, in the first 6 months here when you start hearing that there is a large Hispanic population, we wondered, but probably 99 percent of our patients are American. Later on, by word of mouth, we’ve seen an increase in Hispanic patients.

Dr. Chandran: I’m only doing outpatient work. Dr. Diaz: I used to work in the hospitals, but we’re growing so fast that we didn’t want to keep our patients waiting. So we have a group of hospital physicians that we refer them to if we need to send someone there.

foCus: what Brought you to thE PraCtiCE hErE in Plant City? Dr. Chandran: I had worked in Brandon for many years and I think I just needed a change. Brandon is a bigger city compared to Plant City, and I guess I just wanted to experience it here. Dr. Diaz was another reason. We used to work together at my former office.

foCus: how long has your PraCtiCE BEEn EstaBlishEd? Dr. Diaz: We opened August 3, 2009. Dr. Chandran: I just joined the practice at the end of May.

foCus: tEll ME what sEts your PraCtiCE aPart froM thE othErs? Dr. Diaz: When I started here almost two years ago, I realized right away how great the team was. I think this is the best team I’ve ever worked with in my whole life. We’re like a family here. It feels like home. Everybody gets along pretty well working with each other. Dr. Chandran: To begin with, I think our office is a fun office. We have a great team. This is just my first few weeks, but I’ve been observing the staff here and everyone is really friendly. There is close follow-up and there are levels of follow-up, not just the doctor. Here, the doctor practices evidence-based based and the entire team follows-up with the care of the patient. Overall, this is a great office and a great team.

Dr. ChanDran

foCus: havE you found any diffErEnCEs PraCtiCing MEdiCinE hErE in thE unitEd statEs whEn CoMParEd to your hoME Country? Dr. Chandran: Yes. In India, 50% of the population cannot do annual screenings and they only visit the doctor when there is a medical issue. In certain cases it may be too late. Here the patients are well educated and better motivated to take care of their health. Dr. Diaz: In Cuba, there always seemed to be a shortage of medical supplies and medication needed for the patient. I believe the philosophy and practice of medicine is similar in both the United States and Cuba. The patients here just have more choices available to them.

I really enjoyed my time with Doctors Diaz and Chandran. They are great physicians with a lot of experience that helps with their patient care. I found them both very approachable, and was left with the impression that their patients are probably thankful for the effort they foCus: what do you liKE Most aBout worKing hErE in Plant City? put forward to create an overall positive Dr. Chandran: To be honest with you, I just fit in right away. There’s a lot of competitreatment experience. They’re enjoying tion when you compare the number of doctors to the population. The ratio is much diftheir time in Plant City and were very ferent when you come here. We just fit in right away and we have so many more patients. complimentary about the people here. I haven’t come across any struggles. People are a little bit more laid back in Plant City. Thanks for all your efforts and we wish And the patients treat us more like we’re their friends. you much success in your new practice. Dr. Diaz: The same for me in all aspects, even driving here. It’s a little farther for me to come to this office, but there isn’t any traffic. In Brandon there is a lot of traffic. It’s wonderful here. Plant City is very laid back, and business has been good. We had a business meeting recently, and during the last three months we experienced the largest growth since we’ve been here.

Primecare Plant city (813) 717-9000 1706 south alExandEr strEEt Plant City, fl 33563 www.PriMECarEllC.CoM

business » business profile

Payne Air Conditioning and Celebrating 75 Years of Honesty, Trust, Heating, Inc. and Dedication S written By: Deana Garrison

ummer is in its prime, so if your air-conditioning system quits on you, Payne Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. is at your service 24-hoursa-day. Phone calls are answered right away by someone who cares to see your problem solved and not by an answering machine. This locally owned and operated company is proud of the service it has provided to families and businesses for the past 75 years! The company has earned the trust and respect of its many customers who have depended on them to keep their homes and establishments cool and comfortable. The plaques displayed throughout the office say it all. Payne has received numerous awards including the Carrier Distinguished Dealer Award – an honor awarded for outstanding sales, service and business excellence by one of the most

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

respected manufacturers of heating/cooling After Payne technicians diagnose the equipment in the country. problem, a flat rate for the repair is quoted versus an hourly rate. This ensures Payne is also the local Carrier Factory customers receive the service they deserve. When asked about his technicians, Authorized Dealer. Becoming a CFAD Dealer is no easy feat. Only those expert company president Frank Lansford replied, air conditioning & heating dealers who “Our technicians enjoy finding a way to repair a system. That’s what they do.” If meet Carrier’s highest standards and a repair will not solve the problem, the closest scrutiny for technical expertise technician will not try to sell a new unit. and business practices earn the CFAD distinction. Instead, Payne will send out an estimator whose expertise matches the particular problem. They help customers decide Of the 85 employees at Payne Air which unit bests suits each home or Conditioning, some have 20-plus years business and budget. of dedicated service. In fact, the average length of service for an employee at Payne is almost seven years! The company is Many customers take advantage of the known for having the best technicians in Payne’s Very Important Customers the area and for their strong desire to make (V.I.C.) program. This maintenance agreement, which costs $85 annually, helps a repair rather than to sell a new unit. They want to help customers get the most those customers in many ways. The plan provides for a tune-up once a year. This for their money.

service can help detect a small problem today and prevent a huge disaster later. Also, the tune-up ensures systems are running at peak efficiency and may even help reduce electric bills. Other benefits of the V.I.C. plan include a 10%-discount on all repairs, no overtime fees for Payne’s after-hours service, and priority service even when workloads are high. Visit www.payneair.com or phone anytime: 813-686-6163 in Hillsborough County and 863-686-6163 in Polk. Normal business hours are Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The company gladly serves residents of Polk County and Plant City, as well as many different types of businesses throughout Central Florida. Payne promises, “We’re there when you need us!”

Payne Air Conditioning and Heating, Inc. 863-686-6163 www.payneair.com

business » edward jones

Fear of Losses May Lead to Negative Investment Behavior submitted By: edward jones

ike every other investor, you prefer not to see the value of your investments drop. But at some point they will fall simply because of the ups and downs of the market. And how you respond to short-term losses can help determine if you enjoy long-term investment success. Investors’ feelings about losses can be complex. In the field of economics, an area of study is devoted to “loss aversion” — the concept that people dislike losing money so much that, given a choice, they’d prefer to avoid losses rather than take gains. For example, if you have a high degree of loss aversion, then you will find greater dissatisfaction by losing $100 than you’d get satisfaction from taking a $100 profit. Loss aversion can lead to various forms of negative investment behavior. Here are two of the most common results: Seeking “risk-free” investments — When you think of investment losses, the first thing that probably comes to mind is a drop in stock prices. If you’re really loss-averse, you might seek to avoid this situation by simply avoiding stocks and placing all your money in other investments. While some of these investments may seem “risk free,” you must consider factors such as inflation risk — the possibility that these investments may provide returns that don’t keep up with the rate of inflation. Holding “losers” too long — From time to time, you will own investments that, for whatever reason, underperform. If you’re highly loss-averse, though, you may have a tough time acknowledging the losing nature of these investments,

so you may be tempted to hold on to them until they “bounce back.” But if the investment’s fundamentals change, or if the investment no longer aligns with your goals, it may be time to sell it and look for other opportunities. Conversely, you may want to hold on to quality investments whose price has dropped in the short term, because these investments may well recover. How can you avoid these types of behavior? For starters, you’ll need to recognize the symptoms of loss aversion in yourself — and then resolve to overcome them. Accept the fact that short-term losses are part of investing and that every single investment carries some type of risk. This doesn’t mean, of course, that you should do nothing to reduce your risk. One effective risk-fighting measure you can take is to diversify your holdings by investing in a variety of stocks, bonds, government securities, CDs and other investment vehicles. If you had all your holdings in only stocks or bonds, a downturn primarily affecting one of those assets could lead to a big hit for your portfolio. But by spreading your dollars among a variety of investments, you’re also spreading the risk. Keep in mind, though, that diversification by itself can’t guarantee a profit or protect against loss. Investment losses, even short-term ones, aren’t much fun. But by not overreacting to these losses, and by diversifying your portfolio in a way that best meets your individual needs, you can look past today’s losses toward tomorrow’s possibilities.

20 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

ALLCARE

REHABILITATION Dan Manfre, PT ~ President

OUTPATIENT PHYSICAL THERAPY CENTER SINCE 1990

WE CARE - WE LISTEN W E G E T R E S U LT S When you need Physical Therapy consider choosing Allcare Rehabilitation. Allcare has been providing the Plant City Community with excellent care for over 20 years. 1214 W. Reynolds St. Ste. 1, Plant City, FL • Phone: (813) 754-1062 Fax: (813) 759-8254 • www.Allcare-Rehab.com

*Medicare and Most Insurances Accepted

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

A great rate like this can’t last forever. 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

1.01 % APY * 9 month

Limited time offer. Hurry in for a great rate on our featured Certificate of Deposit through State Farm Bank®. Bank with a good neighbor®. CALL ME TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Se Habla Español *Annual Percentage Yields as of 07/06/11. Advertised rates are subject to change at the Bank’s discretion. The minimum balance required to earn the stated APY is $500 (rates apply to deposits less than $100,000). A penalty may be imposed for withdrawals prior to maturity. Certificates automatically renew at maturity at the then-current rate for the next longer standard term. Some products and services not available in all areas. IRA and ESA CDs are not available for terms less than 12 months.

State Farm Bank, F.S.B., Bloomington, IL

By Linda

Weekly • Bi-Weekly • Monthly • One Time Cleans

813-719-7642

Licensed • Insured • Industrial • Residential

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

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.

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.

reasons you need massage

REDUCES ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION

“Taking care of yourself has never felt better”

With 27 million Americans on antidepressants, depression is a major heath concern. According to the CDC, antidepressants are the most presribed drugs in the US (118 million), even more than those for high blood pressure! Massage is a proven method to naturally lower anxiety and depression levels.

Elaine Vo Plant City Homestyle Buffet How did you get into this business?

I love food, especially country food. My brother owned a restaurant and loved to cook. He died two years ago and it inspired me to open my own restaurant.

What are your aspirations?

I wanted to open my own business to help my family. My mom is elderly, and my brother has brain damage from a car accident. Neither of them can work, so I wanted to do something that would allow me to help them.

What inspires you?

813-477-7978

Christina “Nikki” Jackson MM15607 • MA23235

110 W. REYNOLDS ST., #217 • PLANT CITY, FL 66

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

My favorite thing is to see a customer returning. It lets me know that they like the food and they like the way we cook. Seeing them makes me happy. I am also inspired by my mom and my four children. I want to keep doing a better job for them.

What are your greatest successes?

I am most proud of how I’ve been able to help my family. I have a 27-year old son who I adopted when he was 12. He is blind, so he cannot care for himself independently. He is so happy and brings us so much joy. When his mother was six months pregnant she fell from a 2nd story building and died. Doctors were able to save him, but his sight had not finished developing. He loves to play drums, guitar, games and use the computer.

What do you have planned for the future? I want to make sure this restaurant continues to runs very well. Then maybe one day open a second location, but I’m not sure where. I have lived in Plant City for 26 years, so I want to stay in this area.

LAW OFFICE OF

hELEn STRATIGAKOS, P.A.

Experienced Trial Lawyers Serving The Tampa Bay Area Since 1995

Our Firm FOcuSES On: Automobile Accidents • Medical Malpractice Dental Malpractice • Insurance Disputes Nursing Home Negligence • Personal Injury Trucking Accidents • Wrongful Death

Motorcycle Accidents • Slip and Fall’s

FREE initial consultation

helen@stratigakoslaw.com

We take pride in our personal service and attention to Your case.

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

*Bring this ad and receive free yard entry*

LOETSCHER AUTO PARTS, LLC

( 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 july 2011

E S T A B L I S H E D

M A R C H

1 9 9 6

Plant City CANCER TREATMENT CENTER (Adjacent to the main entrance of the hospital)

■ Advanced Modern Technology ■ Cancer Care Close to Home ■ Prostate Seed Implants ■ Medicare, Medicaid, Most HMO’s ■ CT Simulation ■ 3-D Conformal Therapy ■ Intensity Modulated Radio Therapy ■ Breast Brachy Therapy

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

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

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

Make Next Year Your Child’s Best School Year Ever Just in time for the summer, Huntington is offering

$49 Academic Evaluation Call today to take advantage of this special offer

Huntington Learning Center 1590 Bloomingdale Avenue Valrico, FL 33596 813-681-1500 Accredited by AdvanceEd • Independently owned and operated 2011 Huntington Mark, LLC

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

business » success

WHY DOES MY PET NEED ANNUAL BLOOD WORK?

Annual blood work is important because it can help detect, treat and prevent potentially dangerous illnesses. In our young pets blood work helps establish a baseline of what is normal for your pet as well as checks for early signs of diseases. In our older pets blood work helps in diagnosis and treatment of diseases that occur as our pets age.

Animal Wellness Center

Mark Persails baseball heaven What are your aspirations?

I hope to teach young ball players the proper game techniques from early on in age through 18 years old to prepare them for high school, college or Major League Baseball. We’re here to teach the values of what hard work and dedication can do for any individual. Over the last 18 months, Florida Baseball Heaven has provided a chance for all baseball players of all skill levels to be able to better themselves through camps, lessons and teams. Our aspiration at Florida Baseball Heaven is to provide a safe environment where children can develop.

What inspires you?

Watching kids go from a D player to an A player, from a D student to an A student. Watching kids develop at all ages and

helping them to get college scholarships. Taking the age 12 and under kids up to Cooperstown for a lifetime memory. Taking our teams to play against the best possible competition they can play against.

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

What are your greatest successes?

Throwing a no hitter in front of my dad who hadn’t seen me pitch in two years. Being able to be a part of a lot of kids lives and making a difference. Opening Florida Baseball Heaven for all of Central Florida.

What do you have planned for your future?

I plan to have Florida Baseball Heaven produce some of the top college and pro prospects, as well as outstanding individuals in all professions. foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

501 S. Alexander Street , Plant City, FL 33563

Alterations • Shoe Repairs Free Button Replacement Leather/Suede • Wedding Gowns

$1.39 $8.00

LAUNDERED SHIRTS

2 PC. SUITS

WEDNESDAY SPECIAL

$2.99 PER PIECE DRY CLEANING. *SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY.

BOWMAN CLEANERS Personalized Service | Family Owned Dry Cleaners

STORE HOURS: M-F 7am-6pm SAT 8am-1pm

757-9646

All major credit cards accepted 70

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Across From Farmer’s Market

1 BIRTHDAY HAPPY

Love,

Mommy,Daddy and Keagan

KAMDYN MOSLEY

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

I want to sell YOUR home! WA L D E N

L AKE

NOT JUST A PLACE TO LIVE... BEAUTIFUL 3 B/R, 2.5 BATH 1911 SQ FT HOME. FEATURES INCLUDE GREAT ROOM W/ WOOD-BURNING FIREPLACE, NEW ROOF, SCREENED PATIO, WOOD CABINETS & NEW APPLIANCES IN KITCHEN, UPSTAIRS LOFT THAT CAN BE USED AS A PLAY AREA OR AN OFFICE, WOOD RAILING STAIRCASE. LARGE CORNER LOT. $149,900

1 0 A CRE

10 ACRES IN NORTH PC JUST MINUTES FROM I-4. 2369 SQ FT 3/2/2 SF HOME, 3200 SQ FT BLOCK WORKSHOP, POLE BARN & STORAGE. PRIVATE DRIVE. LOVELY PROPERTY WITH POSSIBLE HOME -BUSINESS POTENTIAL. REMODELED KITCHEN WITH STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES, CEDAR FLORIDA ROOM WITH PANAROMIC VIEW OF ACREAGE. $335,000

P E ND IN

WALDEN LAKE MOVE-IN READY… 3/2/2 HOME ON LARGE ¼ ACRE FENCED LOT. BEAUTIFUL CERAMIC TILE THROUGHOUT LIVING AREAS, SOARING CEILINGS, NEW APPLIANCES, SCREENED PATIO. GREAT VALUE! $119,900

P OOL

REMODELED 3 B/R, 2 BATH POOL HOME IN WALDEN LAKE. GRANITE COUNTERS IN KITCHEN. STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES. WOOD FLOORS. FIREPLACE. BAY WINDOWS. LARGE CORNER LOT. 1800+ SQ FT. $152,500

2 A CRE S

BEAUTIFUL 3 B/R + OFFICE, 2 BATH CUSTOM BUILT POOL HOME IN N LAKELAND JUST EAST OF COUNTY LINE RD AND 1/4 MILE NORTH OF I-4. ALSO INCLUDES 48’ X 32’ WORKSHOP WITH A SMALL APARTMENT ABOVE, 12 X 32 COVERED PARKING AREA FOR TRAVEL TRAILER, RV, ETC. FEATURES CROWN MOLDING THROUGHOUT, CORIAN COUNTERS & SINK IN KITCHEN, FIREPLACE, TRAY CEILINGS IN THE MASTER B/R & FORMAL D/R, AND SO MUCH MORE. $329,000

P OOL

LOVELY 3 B/R, 2 BATH POOL HOME. LOCATED ON ¼ ACRE LOT IN A NON-DEED RESTRICTED NEIGHBORHOOD WITHIN CITY LIMITS. OPEN GREAT ROOM FLOOR PLAN W/ DUAL SLIDING DOORS THAT LOOK OUT AT THE VIEW OF THE 15’ X 30’ HEATED POOL & THE LUSCIOUS LANDSCAPING. FENCED TOO. NO CARPETING; CERAMIC TILE IN GREAT ROOM & D/R, WOOD LAMINATE IN BEDROOMS. NEWER METAL ROOF. $125,000

Lorraine Bennett

(813) 716-3997

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

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

813.707.6200

PCM

PLANT CITY W W W . P L A N T C I T Y M O R T G A G E S . C O M M O R T G A G E

NMLS# 289323

Nate Davis

President- Loan Ofﬁcer

Natasha Davis

Vice President- Ofﬁce Manager

Carol Barton Administrator

C O R P

Sherri Judah Administrator

Paul Pritt Loan Ofﬁcer

Barbara Hall Loan Ofﬁcer

Rick Norman Loan Ofﬁcer

Don Scarmuzzi Loan Ofﬁcer

Jaida Davis

Ofﬁce Assistant

Paitlyn Davis Ofﬁce Assistant

Buster Davis Security

PRICES ARE GREAT, BUT WAIT UNTIL YOU SEE OUR RATES! Check out the 3 minute video at www.PlantCityMortgages.com to see exactly how and why we provide better deals than any bank, lender, or credit union. FHA Purchase Loans (Only 3.5% Down) VA LOANS – 0% DOWN NO MONTHLY MORTGAGE INSURANCE USDA loans – 0% down no monthly mortgage insurance Conventional LOANS – 5-20% DOWN (Investment homes, Vacation Homes, Primary Homes)

“Being a ﬁrst time home buyer I had multiple questions. Plant City Mortgage took the time and patience to answer all my questions. They made the forms understandable to me and I left feeling conﬁdent in what I signed. Plant City Mortgage helped me make my home buying process smooth and painless” - Andrea Swilley foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

1513 Jim Redman Parkway, Plant City

Call us for your Residential, Commercial, and Property Management Needs WELCOME NEW AGENT MELISSA THOMPSON! The Plant City office welcomes its newest associate, Melissa Thompson. Melissa has lived in the area for several years and has a strong background in customer service and estate auctions. She is excited about her new career and is ready to serve your real estate needs. Please give Melissa a call today, 813-754-3586 or 813-395-3953.

TWO HOMES ONE GREAT PRICE!!

813-754-3586 www.floridamoves.com/plantcity

LIVE LIKE YOU’RE ON VACATION!

MAKE

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

CLASSIC GOLF COURSE HOME

OFFER

4/3 exquisite home with a view overlooking Lake Hammock. Completely remodeled with new wood and tile floors, granite countertops, wet bar, and new fi xtures. Call Jimmie Robinson @ 813-3906441. MLS# T2438870

Custom 4BR/2.5BA/3CG and resort like pool. Updated kitchen, formal living/dining, open kitchen/family room with fireplace. Over 3000 sq. ft. of living! Offered at $275,000. Call Maddie Alford to preview 813-382-8382.

LOTS OF POTENTIAL

COMMERCIAL

2.7 acres of commercial property currently being used as a church. More than 3300 SF with lots of parking space. Close to town with easy access to I-4. Now $300,000. Call Jimmie Robinson @ 813390-6441. MLS# T2440592

Two story commercial building with over 6000 SF. Located close to the hospital. Easy access to I-4. Only $335,000. Call Jimmie Robinson @ 813-3906441. MLS# T244109

INDUSTRIAL

BE YOUR OWN BOSS!

ISTING

NEW L

Almost two acres of land with two 3/2 move in ready homes. Priced right at $146,500. Call Jimmie Robinson @ 813-390-6441. MLS# T2475709

ON THE LAKE

Build your own customized home on this beautiful .92 acre lot on the waterfront of Lake Thontosassa! Only $325,000 MLS# T2449620

LOCATION, LOCATION!

Waterfront in Walden Place 3BR/2BA/2CG w/ over 2000 sq. ft. of living. Great room with fireplace, formal dining w/wood floors, updated kitchen. Large covered lanai overlooks pond. Call Maddie Alford @ 813-382-8382. $179,500.

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Metal warehouse/office with 5,722 total SF and 1800 heated SF. Located in the industrial park of Plant city. Equipped with security system. $249,900 Call Jimmie Robinson @ 813-390-6441 MLS# T2472481

A MUST SEE!

3 bed/ 2 bath 2 car garage Villa located in the beautiful gated golf community of Walden Lake. Lawn and pool service included in monthly fees. New tile throughout, upgraded fi xtures, new garage door, winter panels for screen, fresh exterior paint & a new roof. Call Maddie Alford @813-382-8382. $127,900.

Own your own business with this full service automobile shop equipped with several service bays and lots of work space. Now $500,000. Call Jimmie Robinson @ 813-390-6441. MLS# T242376

LAUREL LAKE!

Gated community features single family detached “condo”. Split plan features 2BR/2BA/2CG open kitchen/living/dining. Updated bath, finished study/den and new concrete tile roof. Ready to move! Offered at $159,950. Call Maddie Alford 813-382-8382.

real estate Âť walden lake

Walden Lake T

he Walden Lake Community Association Board Meetings, open to all Walden Lake residents, are held the third Monday of each month at 6:00 PM at the HOA office building on Griffin Boulevard in Walden Lake. The next meeting will be August 15th.

At the last meeting, Tom Daramus reported that many entry signs to the neighborhoods have deteriorated and will be repaired. Forest Club had a fallen tree on the sign at Timberlane, which has since been rebuilt. Paving will begin on the path from Polo Place to Griffin along Timberlane Drive and plans are in the works for some streets to be repaved soon. Additional information will be e-mailed to those residents registered on the website, waldenlake.org. The zigzag wood bridge at the park entry to the path is being replaced to make it straighter and will now be paved. Tom also wrote a letter to the City Manager regarding parking on the streets in Walden Lake to see if a city code could be amended making overnight street parking illegal.

Review submitted By: natalie sweet

Second quarter home sales in Walden Lake increased over the first quarter of 2011. In the MLS system between April 1st and June 30th, there were 30 sales in Walden Lake, including Walden Lake East. The highest priced home sold for $252,000 in Aston Woods and the lowest priced home sold in Walden Lake East for $63,500. Five homes sold for less than $100,000, thirteen sold between $100,000 and $149,999, ten sold between $150,000 and $200,000 and two sold over $200,000. The average sales price in Walden Lake for the second quarter 2011 was $143,607. Since January 1st there have been 50 homes that have sold with an average price of $142,757. At the time of this writing, there were 50 active listings and 27 listings Pending Contract. My information is deemed to be reliable although should always be verified. For more information on these statistics, please feel free to contact me at 813-758-9586.

Most of you already know that Walden Lake Golf & Country Club is in foreclosure and has been having financial difficulties, especially during this tough Jan Griffin and the Landscape Committee economy. Please be aware that the Club will ride the community to determine the is trying to work out a solution with necessary work still to be accomplished their lender. They are still open, still in relation to dead trees, sight lines etc. holding golf tournaments, and still having The City is now taking care of trees 13â&#x20AC;&#x2122; functions. They would like to encourage or higher alone the roadside and medians Walden Lake residents to consider throughout the Community. joining the club and are currently offering memberships without any initiation fee. Marlene Merrin is now responsible for the The club is a very important component deed restrictions enforcement in 16 of the to our community and adds value to our neighborhoods. She says most issues she is homes. Stop by and visit to see what they seeing involve lawns and she is hoping the are offering. rain will help with many of those issues. foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

real estate » mortgage

Owned and Operated by Steve and Kathy Paul Roaches

We’ll get the bugs moving in the right direction Securing your house at Plant City Home Protection

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

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

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

Conventional Loans I submitted By: nate davis

The nice part about conventional loans is that unlike VA/USDA/FHA loans, there is NO Up Front Mortgage Insurance or Funding Fee, which is automatically added to your loan amount with these other options. Also, the monthly mortgage Conventional loans start at only 5% down, insurance on the conventional loans is but it takes at least 20% down to avoid typically less expensive than the alternative monthly mortgage insurance on your FHA loan. The limiting factors as to why loan. Conventional loans can be used for everyone does not choose a conventional primary residences, investment homes, loan is that they are more stringent on the multifamily homes, and vacation homes as debt-to-income ratio (allow you to borrow well. These are the most common loans in less than other loan types comparative to existence today. your income), are less tolerant of lower credit scores, and require reserves (money Conventional Purchase Loans typically in the bank after you close on your home) require at least a 5% down in most cases. in some cases. Of course, you can put down as must as you would like, but rate and mortgage Whatever loan product you decide insurance options vary in 5% increments. to pursue, it is always a good idea to This means that mortgage insurance on investigate all loan options with your a 10% down loan is less expensive than mortgage professional before you decide on a 5% down loan. This is true not only which option is best for you and which because you would be naturally financing ones you qualify for. less, but due to the fact that the required coverage ratio and cost per unit of covered loan amount is more expensive the less you put down (in 5% increments). n an effort to continue this series on the highlights of various purchase loan types, I will focus (no pun intended) on Conventional Loans this month.

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

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

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

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

Kathleen Wainoris 863-608-1557 REALTOR® Notary

WE ARE HERE TO HELP! Today’s real estate market has created many new challenges, and one of the biggest is SHORT SALES. The general home market value price deflation that took place from 2007 - 2011 has placed many homeowners, through no fault of their own, into a negative equity position in their home. Sometimes, life circumstances requires a homeowner to sell their home. But how can a homeowner sell their home if they owe more than it is worth? Depending on their situation, the homeowner may qualify for a SHORT SALE. Sound too confusing? Don’t worry, we are here to help. At Team Wainoris, we specialize in helping buyers and sellers in SHORT SALE transactions. Thinking about buying or selling? Would you like more information about what your home may be worth in today’s market? Call Team Wainoris today.

PLANT CITY FOR RENT 4 bedroom 2 bath Plant City home for rent. Great location, freshly painted and ready for you. $1,200 per month

AUTUMNWOOD GROVE CONDO 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 $59,000.

BETTER THAN NEW! Just 3 years old, and waiting for you! Adorable 3 bedroom 2 bath home close to everything! Short sale, reduced to $109,000; bank says make offer!

WALDEN LAKE GOLF COURSE HOME 4 bedroom, 3 bath pool home on golf course. Formal living room and dining room, family room with ﬁreplace and large kitchen. Short sale: call today! $229,000.

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

WE DO THE WORK SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO

FLOORING SALES AND INSTALLATION

CRAWFORD-HILL I N T E R I O R S ,

I N C.

813-754-6898

1407 E. Baker St., Plant City • www.crawford-hill.com

OFFERING

Carpet • Hardwood • Ceramic Tile • Vinyl Flooring • Shutters • Blinds Cabinets • Wallpaper • Fabrics • Artwork • Countertops • Accessories

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

real estate » jo-ann lusk

Selling in tough times… A submitted By: jo-ann lusk

re you in the market to sell your home, but feel like you just can’t get a break? The sad truth is that even after five years into the housing bust when many experts thought the market would have stabilized, sales and prices continue to drop in many areas around the country. I am also quite sure that if you have read my articles in the past, you’ve noticed that I usually have something to write in regards to “price”. Well, you know where I’m going…BUT, there’s more than just price. Below I’ve listed what I believe to be the most important things a Seller can do today to sell their home at a competitive and fair market price.

1. Analyze and Reposition: This is a nice way of saying “Know the competition and undercut it”. Why? In normal times listings of similar properties in your area would give you a good sense of what your home might sell for. Today there’s a big gap between what sellers want and what buyers are willing to pay. Additionally, sellers should know that the most startling statistic (though not surprising) is that as of June, 54% of the Active Listings in the Plant City market (3 bed/2bath) were either Bank-Owned or Short Sales. These homes are already priced at or just below Fair Market Value, with an Average Sale Price of $119K, versus a Traditional Average Sale Price of $158K. If your home has been on the market for more than 30 days and you’ve had no showings or offers, then you need to Reposition Your Price.

2. Clean and Stage: Realtors see a lot of homes these days (because there are a lot of buyers) and, to be honest, some homes might sell faster if they were cleaned up a bit. You have heard before - “De-Clutter” the home; meaning to De-Personalize so that they buyer can mentally and visually see their personal things in the house, on the walls, etc. The best advice? Make your home look like the Model Homes we all like to tour. Ask your Realtor for help; better yet, hire a Stager. Some Stagers charge a minimal consultation fee and will give you some great tips that are easy to accomplish and may not cost anything but time. It is worth it.

3. Inspect and Appraise: Two suggestions here. Consider getting a Pre-Marketing Home Inspection. Find out what needs to be done before the buyer does, so you can save time and money getting the home in super condition. Use it in your marketing and you stand a better chance of a full price offer. Secondly, consider hiring an appraiser before you list the home. You will pay for a professional opinion and can then play hardball in your negotiations. These two suggestions will cost, on average, between $250-$400 each, but it will easily give you some peace of mind and negotiating power. The bright side of selling a home in a down market is that you get to seek your own bargain if you’re going to buy after you have sold your home. Here’s to a Happy Sale!

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

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.

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

SANCHEZ DERMATOLOGY WHAT EVERYBODY SHOULD KNOW ABOUT VISITING THE DERMATOLOGIST Often times when patients are sent to specialist physician practices, they will only see a nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant, and may not even realize they did not see the actual doctor. At Sanchez Dermatology, every patient that comes through our doors will see Dr. Sanchez, not just a P.A. or N.P. There is valuable information specialist physicians learn during their extensive education that you and your insurance company are paying for. When you need a dermatologist, come see a dermatologist.

Fitzgeraldo Sanchez, M.D.

Have skin related questions you’d like answered? Contact Dr. Sanchez himself at: Sanchez Dermatology | 420 N. Plant Ave., Plant City, FL 33563 | phone 813-830- DERM (3376) | E-mail - Sanchezdermatology@me.com Facebook Sanchez Dermatology of Plant City, FL | A division of Sanchez Dermatology Services, PL | www.Sanchezdermatology.us

THIS COULD BE YOUR...

Screen Room!!

“FACTS” We give you Start and Completion Dates Customer Referrals on Request Quality Construction Competitive Prices 50 Years of Professional Service

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.

Financing Available

OUR 50TH YEAR

We have a complete product line of “Do it your self kits” Concrete Floors and Drive Ways

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

659-2501 “FREE ESTIMATES” Licensed-Bonded-Insured RX00063299

P C A

lant

Don’t Delay

We will show you how affordable your room can be while adding value to your home.

We Also Offer... Carport, Glass Rooms, Vinyl Windows, Siding/Soffit, Roofover, Skirting, Pool Enclosure,

ity wning & Aluminum Products, Inc. “Serving Your Home Improvement Needs Since 1961”

806 WOODROW WILSON ST. UNIT #1 • 7-5 WEEKDAYS • SAT BY APPOINTMENT “Your Full Service Aluminum Contractor” • www.plantcityawningandaluminum.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

sports » football

Bennie Coney

Dazmond Patterson

The Playing Field has Changed Raiders’ Coney and Patterson Among Top Recruits in Florida T

written By: Joe Bowles

he playing field has changed in high school sports. I’m not talking about the field turf, but instead I’m referring to the recruiting process and the marketing of high school players to colleges. Unless high school coaches get involved in this process, a lot of talented players will be overlooked… players that could make a difference on the field and in the classroom.

“The internet has completely evolved the recruiting process,” said head coach Wayne Ward. “With these different scouting websites and e-mail capabilities, it has extended the boundaries for recruiting. Also, the fact that parents are getting more involved in the recruiting process shows the seriousness of choosing where players spend the next four to five years after graduation.” Ward knows the value of a coaching staff getting involved, after seeing their efforts

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

last year rewarded when Raiders offensive lineman Jordan Prestwood became one of the highest recruited players in the nation before he signed with Notre Dame. This year is no different. Even before the last game of the season was over, Ward and his coaching staff were planning summer camps and preparing highlight films. “The recruiting process is such a grind nowadays,” Ward commented. “The best recruiting tool we as coaches have is the game film these kids produce during the season. Now, with internet capabilities we can send film and highlights via e-mail to reach schools we couldn’t reach before. Taking players to camps, visiting colleges, and having spring football enhances the chances of these students to receive athletic scholarships.”

The Raiders’ quarterback Bennie Coney is a testament to the work that the Raiders coaching staff has put in, not only on

the field, but also in the recruitment process. Recently, Coney was rated as the #1 high school quarterback in the state of Florida by Scout.com. Not far behind Coney was All State running back Dazmond Patterson, with a #22 rating at running back. Coney has received offers from Cincinnati, Louisville, Michigan, Michigan State, University of South Florida, and Florida State, to name a few. Patterson has had offers from Ohio University and Jacksonville University.

In most people’s estimate, 2010 was a successful season for the Raiders, but from Ward’s viewpoint, the whole experience left a bad taste in his mouth, knowing the potential he saw in his team. That’s the reason that his returning players and staff have been working so hard to develop players in the off season. Coney and Patterson are two of the leaders Ward is depending on to set the standard for the other players.

Informing colleges or “marketing” them, as some call it, is a necessity, lest gifted athletes go unnoticed and miss out on the aid of a scholarship that will enable them to advance their education. Other Raiders have received offers, as well: Jalen Butler (Ball State, Youngstown State), Sam Green (University of South Florida, Rutgers, Memphis, Cincinnati) and Lamarlin Wiggins (Louisville, University of South Florida). There is no doubt that the Raiders will have a pool of talent this year. But even with the most talented players, Ward understands that it takes depth, hard work, and heart to be a success. “I believe we can be a good football team if we play with one heartbeat. Unity is the key to success for us this year.”

HAYDE POT

NE ING EDSS DD NEED BE W ING RA DD ST BE E W PIN RA UR ST E YO R PIN FO UR US YO TO R FO ME US CO TO ME CO Pine Straw is the better alternative for your Flower Bedding as well! Termite and Bug resistant, and weed resistant is the best cost effective way to clean out ﬂower beds. Giving a natural look to your Landscaping.

1001 S. ALEXANDER ST. PLANT CITY, FL. 33563 (813) 478�1654 STORE HOURS: 7:00 AM TO 5:30 PM MON-FRI • 7:00 AM TO 3:30 PM SATURDAY

COASTAL, ALFALFA, COMPRESSED ALFALFA, TNA, COMPRESSED TIMOTHY, PERENNIAL PEANUT, & PINE SHAVINGS

WELCOMING NEW PATIENTS A NEW YEAR BRINGS NEW STAFF TO BETTER ACCOMMODATE YOUR NEEDS

WINNER OF THE 2011 MOST SUCCESSFUL DOCTORS AWARDS

AFFORDABLE SELF PAY RATES

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Come Join the Fitness Party with Megan Criscillo 813-359-3247 Tuesdays and Thursdays at The Dance Carousel starting June 14th only $5.00 per class! 1112 N Wheeler Street. 7:15 to 8:00 p.m See You There!

NOW OPEN

1514 South Alexander Street “The Oaks” - Suite 102 Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 417-6166 Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-6pm

AMERICAN BOARD CERTIFIED

PLANT CITY’S URGENT CARE & WEIGHT LOSS

Urgent Care • No Appointment Necessary! • Most Insurance Accepted • Experienced Urgent Care Physicians • On Site X-Rays • EKG & Labs • Stiches • Sore Throats • Infections • Physicals • Sprains • Occupational Medicine • Much More!

Wheeler

Baker NOW CARE

Davis

Verna McKelvin, Manager

Alexander Whitehall

WEIGHT LOSS FINANCING AVAILABLE CALL FOR DETAILS

Reynolds

Weight Loss • • • • •

Medically Supervised Appetite Suppressants Vitamin Injections Diet Plans Meds & Injection Included in the total price • Member of the American Society of Bariatric Physicians Thank You Now Care for helping me achieve my weight loss goal. Dede Floyd

$50.00 OFF initial WEIGHT LOSS consultation Offer expires 7-15-2011

1009 W. Baker St. Plant City, FL 33563 813-759-1232 nowcareclinic.com Mon-Fri 8am-8pm • Sat & Sun 9am-5pm foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

110 E. Reynolds St. Suite 300 Plant City 33563 • 813-659-3900 • plantcity@anythingcomputers.ws

Farm Hand Specials

Lunch

(4pm - Close)

8.99

Our favorite entrees served with one southern vegetable and roll.

Computers

Dinner

(11am - 4pm)

6.99

NYTHING

Heapin portion of our favorite entrees served with three southern vegetables and rolls.

Computer Repair, Virus Removal, Game Console Repair (Xbox, Wii, PS3, Repairs, Mods And Upgrades) Surveillance and CCTV Sales and Service.

of Plant City

Usually Same Day Service Full Inventory Parts on Hand Lowest Price Fastest Service Guaranteed Used Towers With Warranty starting at $75.00

ENTREES: Monday -------------- Beef Tips or Fried Chicken Tuesday -------------- Chicken Fried Steak or Liver n’ onions Wednesday ---------- Pot Roast or Grilled Pork Chop Thursday ------------ Country Fried Steak or Baked Chicken Friday ---------------- Meatloaf or Catﬁsh

www.AnythingComputers.ws

SOUTHERN VEGETABLE SELECTIONS:

ANYTHING COMPUTERS

Corn Green Beans Carrots Breaded Okra

Mac n’ Cheese Mashed Potators Sweet Potato Soufﬂé Squash Casserole

Collard Greens Cole Slaw

1101 Goldﬁnch Dr. • 813.754.5120 Mon-Sun 7:00 am - 8:30 pm

20% OFF any service *Must present coupon

ORDER FARM HAND SPECIALS, WITH THIS AD DESSERT IS FREE.

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

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

sports » Baseball team of the month

2418 James L. Redman Pkwy., Plant City, FL (813) 757-0300 written By: Joe Bowles

FIRST TEAM

Catcher: Josh Botts (Sr) Riverview; Solid receiver led the Sharks with a team high .443 BA and district leading 26 RBIs while pounding out 3 homers. Pitcher: Emilio Ogando (Sr) Durant; Cougars’ southpaw led district in wins with an 8-1 mark, limiting opponents to a .184 BA while sporting an ERA of 1.99. Brett Nizamoff (Sr) Plant City; Florida Atlantic signee was second in district with 6 wins against 2 losses, recorded 58 strikeouts in 39.1 innings, holding opponents to a .186 BA. Tyrone Miller (Sr) Tampa Bay Tech; Despite a 3-6 record, the Titan’s ace righthander struck out 78 in 53 innings of work with an ERA of only1.97.

providing solid defense for the Indians. Jake Jones (Sr) Newsome: Steady player for the Wolves all season. Pounded out 32 hits,15 RBIs and was led team in hits and batting average of .405. Utility: Trey Oest ( Jr) Durant; First baseman hit .295 with 11 RBIs at the plate. Pitched better than his 1-3 record indicates, striking out 52 in 44 innings with an ERA of 2.21. Josh Spano (Sr) Armwood; Solid performer behind the plate, senior captain hit .290 with three homers. Posted a 3-1 record with an ERA of 1.71 in 8 appearances on the hill.

SECOND TEAM

Catcher: Emmanuel Rodriguez ( Jr) East Bay.

First Base: Travis Cannoles (Sr) Plant City; Raiders’ cleanup hitter led all players at his Pitcher: Tyler Peterson ( Jr) Plant City; position with a .361 average. He belted two Cesar Malave (Sr) Riverview; Evan Bowles homers while driving in 18 runs. ( Jr) Plant City.

Matthew Singletary

DistrictBaseball 5A-8 High Player School of the Year G

Matthew Singletary (Senior) Plant City High School ifted with speed, defense, power, and a consistency most players just dream about, Plant City’s senior captain, Matthew Singletary, has been named Focus Magazine’s District 5A-8 Player of the Year for 2011. Singletary helped lead the Raiders to an impressive18-6 record and their first district title in school history. The Raiders’ shortstop led the district in batting with a .493 average, on-base percentage (.634), and tied for first with 21 stolen bases. He was second in runs scored (26), walks (20), and hits (35), hitting safely in 20 of 23 games. An All Western Conference and All Hillsborough County first team selection, Singletary is headed to Polk State College.

Infield: Spencer Andrews (Sr) Riverview; Catalyst behind the Shark’s offense, accounted for 12 extra base hits that included 3 homers while hitting at a .384 pace. Tyler Danish (So) Durant; Sophomore pounded out 17 extra base hits that led to a .806 slugging percentage and second in district with a .484 BA. Dylan Drawdy ( Jr) Riverview; Sharks leadoff hitter led the district in runs scored with 27. Also sported a .382 average with 4 home runs and a .509 OBP. Art Knight (Sr) Plant City; Supplied power for the Raiders with a slugging percentage of .667, belting out four home runs, 18 RBIs, and hitting at a .375 pace. Outfield: Brett Jones (Sr) Durant; Came up big for the Cougars driving in 21 runs, batting .397 and leading the district in home runs with five. Tyler Quintanilla (Sr) East Bay; Senior leader compiled a .317 batting average driving in 12 runs while

First Base: Sean Belen (Sr) East Bay; Jaylin Earl (Sr) Tampa Bay Tech. Infield: Tyler Lawson (Sr) Tampa Bay Tech; Jackson Famaree (Sr) Armwood; Zach Turner (Sr) East Bay; Justin Rose ( Jr) Riverview. Outfield: Jacob Burgess (Sr) Durant; Omar Molina (Sr) Plant City; Paul Roundtree ( Jr) Armwood. Utility: Sean Cramer (Sr) Armwood; Julius Engel (Sr) Newsome. Input for selections included newspaper/ internet reports, nominations solicited from coaches, Maxpreps, various first team/ second team all-conference/all-county or honorable mention all-star teams, etc.

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

sports » Baseball team of the month

2418 James L. Redman Pkwy., Plant City, FL (813) 757-0300 written By: Joe Bowles

FIRST TEAM

Catcher: Meagan Brislin ( Jr) Riverview; Led or tied for team lead in six statistical categories including hits (32), runs (23) and BA (.390). Pitcher: Mackenzie Audas (Sr) Plant City; Player of the Year. Lauren Wolfe (Sr) Durant; Hard throwing Cougars’ ace went 13-6, 1.42 ERA, with 131 strikeouts in 123 innings.

Utility: Bailey Schinella (Sr) Newsome; Talented hurler went 11-4 with a miniscule ERA of 0.78 ERA. Batted .443 and led district in slugging (.786). Sierra Rock (Sr) East Bay; Versatile player picked up 5 wins on the mound while leading the district in hitting (.460) and in slugging percentage (.742).

SECOND TEAM

Catcher: Ashley Gornto ( Jr) Newsome; Aliceson Holliday (So) East Bay. First Base: Nicole Kennedy (Sr) East Bay; Compiled a batting average of .416, led the Pitcher: Emily Gaitan (So) Riverview; Indians in hits with 32 and extra base hits Sammy Tyler (Fr) Armwood. with 12.

Mackenzie Audas

DistrictSoftball 5A-8 High Player School of the Year Mackenzie Audas (Senior) Plant City High School W

ith a fast ball clocked at 66 mph to complement her screwball, curveball, drop ball, rise ball, and two different kinds of changeups, Mackenzie Audus has relied on her talented arm to become this year’s Focus Magazine District 5A-8 Softball Player of the Year. The Raiders’ senior talent won 20 games and struck out 323 batters in 184 innings. Mackenzie’s efforts helped lead the Raiders to a district title during the regular season, as well as a district tournament championship and two regional wins before being stopped just one run shy of a regional title and a final four appearance at the state tournament. Audas has already been named to several all-star teams and is recognized as Hillsborough County’s best softball player. She is headed to the University of Central Florida

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Infield: Kristen Wyckoff (So) Plant City; Sparkplug of Raiders attack. Led district and county in runs (35), hits (48), and stolen bases (42). Nicollette Levine (Sr) Newsome; Defensive standout raised her average nearly 140 points over last season to a team leading .397, also contributed 16 RBI’s. Christina Caisse ( Jr) East Bay; Pounded out 31 hits, led team in runs scored with 27 while batting .437 and stealing 16 bases. Victoria Cooper (Sr) East Bay; Indians’ slugger led district in homeruns with 4 and in RBI’s with 31, while scoring another 20 runs. Outfield: Jordan LaFave ( Jr) Durant; Led Cougars in hits (36), batting average with .429, and tied for district lead in runs scored with 35. Mackensie McAvoy ( Jr) Plant City; Second in district with a .458 BA. Plated 21 runs, drove in 27 more while stroking 44 hits. Allysa Caisse ( Jr) East Bay; Contributed 19 runs and 14 RBI’s to the Indians’ attack. Hit .371 and picked up a team leading 12 walks. Kelsey Bruner (Sr) Plant City; Came up big for the Raiders with a .321 BA, 25 hits, 16 runs, and a team leading 3 triples.

First Base: Catie Lytle (So) Newsome. Infield: Olivia Cuellar ( Jr) Durant; Kayleen Boatwright (Sr) Riverview; Kelli Tidwell (Fr) Durant; Emily Holman (Sr) Riverview. Outfield: Nikki Giovenco ( Jr) Durant; Shannon Bell (Fr) Durant; Nan Lawson (So) Plant City. Utility: Paige Davis (So) Durant; Lauren Harris (So) Armwood. Input for selections included newspaper/ internet reports, Maxpreps, previous first team/second team all-conference/allcounty or honorable mention players, etc.

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

COMPLETELY Celebrate freedom from fees – – and a whole lot more with our Completely Maribel Lorenzo

Assistant Vice President Branch Manager

Michael Gottesman Senior Vice President Commercial Loans

Free CHECKING

Free Personal and Business Checking. No fees. No minimum balance. No fine print. And when you open an account with us, or refer a friend who opens an account with us, you'll get a free gift. Call or stop by today to open your Completely Free Checking account. You'll find it also comes with the friendly customer service that's been our hallmark for more than 20 years.

Personal&&Business BusinessChecking: Checking: Personal

Late Friday Hours

FREE Online Banking & Bill Payment

■

Full-Service Saturday Banking

• 24-Hour Automated Telephone Banking • Auto Loans • Consumer, Business & Agribusiness Loans

Other Locations

759-2265

Valrico

★

305 South Wheeler St.

Wishing You a Safe and Happy Independence Day Celebration.

689-1231

MAIN OFFICE

Brandon

685-2811

Riverview

621-7773

FishHawk

www.valricostate.com

651-9800

FREE Return of Check Images for Easy Record-Keeping FREE Easy-to-Balance Monthly Statement FREE Thank You Gift

FREE Money for Your Old Checks & Debit Cards

Free Gift:

When you open a completely free personal or business checking account.

To Replace or Service… now is a great time to call Payne! Ask about Payne’s VIC Maintenance Plan Benefits include: • No Overtime Rates • 10% Off Repairs • Priority Response

Mon-Fri 8AM-8PM Sat 8AM-5PM

If your current system is 8-years old or more, 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 $1,650!*

4 Carrier Rebate ...........................up to $1,100 4 Lakeland Electric Rebate ......up to $ 250 4 Federal Tax Credit ....................up to $ 300

“We’re There When You Need Us”

Serving Central Florida For 75 Years

*Offer expires 8/31/11. Call Payne for details on offer and qualifying euipment for rebates and tax credit.

863-686-6163 • www.payneair.com

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

CAC057909

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

extra » al reuchel turn the wrenches, operate the lifts, and have cooked the meals for the astronauts. They never sought publicity, just did their jobs as best they could for 135 shuttle missions. Most stayed in their small working groups to watch Atlantis fly one last time. Some wandered into the press area and shared their stories and tears with us. I met a man whose brother was killed working on the Columbia before it was launched in 1981 in a nitrogen purge accident. Another person I met was responsible for painting the letters on the outside of Atlantis. A sweet looking gray haired woman told me she helped with the meals in the astronaut’s kitchen. For me, this final mission was like turning back the hands of time. I, wearing my STS-1 News Media pass, found dozens of other reporters and photographers who were also here from the beginning. And to a person, we all shared our concern that closing out the shuttle program was a huge mistake. Just look around at all the infrastructure; the VAB, so big you could place the Empire State Building inside of it; the two spotlessly clean shuttle preparation facilities now housing the Discovery and Endeavor as they are being decommissioned and made safe for displays at museums in California and Washington, DC; the 3-mile long runway and the launch gantries waiting for something in the future, though no one knows what it is.

Saluting the shuttles! T Written By: Al Reuchel

he tears were pouring down our cheeks in the press area just 3 miles from launch pad 39A. The noise so loud you could feel it throbbing in your chest. Gazing skyward the exhaust plum as bright as the sun itself. People were yelling and screaming and laughing and waving their fists in the air, encouraging the most sophisticated flying machine in the world to climb through the clouds. It was a moment I will freeze in my mind and replay over and over again.

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

This is the way it ends for the shuttle program. No one can believe it. Despite low hanging clouds and dire predictions of lousy weather, the shuttle Atlantis made her final journey into the skies as if to say, “I will reach for the heavens one more time. I will not be denied my place in history.” Okay, some may say it is a stretch. This is just a machine. I can’t have memories, regrets, feel a purpose, express remorse,

wonder what’s next down the road. But the thousands of men and women who poured their lives into these incredible flying machines do. On Friday, July 8, 2011 you could pick them out from the crowd, like loving parents watching their child walk down the graduation isle for the final time. These were all remarkable people. Many have spent most of their adult lives hand rubbing those ceramic tiles that protect the shuttle from reentry’s inferno. They

Rationally, I understand the need to move on to the next challenge. Maybe NASA’s mistake was doing too much. Without a solid nudge, private industry was not about to step up to the plate and spend their own money when Uncle Sam was already spending yours and mine. I do pray this isn’t a mistake we will regret in the future. Ii may be expensive to send the shuttles up at about 500 million a pop, but losing thousands of engineers and skilled minds, and losing a dream for future generations is costlier. If exploration is truly in our DNA then losing the shuttles has to be akin to Columbus losing his ships. Getting to the new world has just become much, much harder!

Contempo Spa

2909 James Redman Parkway • 813-754-0212

$25 WEEKENDS NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED (Lotion & Eyewear May Apply)

YOUR CHOICE OF 2 SESSIONS

CHOOSE FROM:

UV Therapy • Hydration Lumiere Facial Hydro Massage Mystic Tan

POOL MASTERS

Pumps • Motors • Filters • Leak Detection • Solar Systems Heat Pumps • Gas Heaters • Pool Cleaners & Heating Systems FREE In-Store Water Analysis

D S

Weekly Pool Maintenance & Pool Repairs

ISCOUNT CREENING Marty Johnson

Sales -- Service Service -- Repairs Repairs -- Supplies Supplies Sales

Inc.

SPECIALIZING IN RESCREENING & REPAIR

Hours: Mon. - Sat. 9am - 6pm

Since 1983

Pool Enclosures Screen Rooms Lanais

Screen Entryways New Doors & Hardware Pet Screen & Pet Doors

Window Screens Vinyl Window Repairs Aluminum Repairs

24 Years of Experience

5 Year Warranty on rescreening 10 Year Warranty on super-screening

We Will Meet or Beat Any Advertised Price! Free tes a Estim

www.discountscreeninginc.com

813-752-3306

1406 W Knights Griffin Rd Plant City, FL 33565

Lice & In nsed sure d

117 Prosser Dr. •

754-9073

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

2010 FOCUS

Thank You For Voting Us Best Cuban

6 :30am to :0 10 0am

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

Superior Care through

ates and Gif t Certific Available Part y Trays

BETTER IMAGING

Busy? Pick up your Cuban Sandwich ANYTIME!

PLANT CITY IMAGING IS THE ONLY FREE-STANDING OUTPATIENT IMAGING CENTER IN PLANT CITY TO HAVE FULL-TIME, ON SITE RADIOLOGISTS AND THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY INCLUDING HIGH FIELD OPEN MRI.

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

813.750.1724 | 206 West Alexander St. Suite 1 | www.RISimaging.com

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. EXPIRES 8/30/11

CLEAN YOUR CARPETS NOW CA

LL TODAY

Steam & Dry Clean Carpet Pet Color Removed Tile Grout Upholstery Plus much more! Guaranteed low prices!

same day service BEFORE BEFORE

AFTER AFTER

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

BEFORE BEFORE & & AFTER AFTER

Buy Any Breakfast Sandwich, Get 2nd One

Available 7 Days a week

1/2 OFF STRAWBERRY HUT

OF EQUAL OR LESSER VALUE. EXPIRES 8/30/11

Steam Clean up to 4 Rooms Spot treatment and deod. included

BEST DEAL

$49 $15 additional room

Sofa and Loveseat Combo

$65

Deodorize Included

Limited time offer

Tile and Grout Cleaned

WOW

NO ADDITIONAL COST

40¢

per square foot Scrubbing Included

extra » derek maul try to encourage folk to change-up some of their routines and try something new. Consequently, and in light of the fact that half the campus is under construction, the Discipleship Ministry Team is offering a smorgasbord of mid-week learning opportunities that I’m really looking forward to. So yesterday I joined a group of 12 for week-one of a month-long seminar on Paul’s journeys through Galatians, Thessalonians, Corinthians and Philippians. The instructor is our resident New Testament scholar, Charles Willard. Charles is a PhD with a lifetime of experience in ministry, grace and academia - including accreditation for post-graduate programs in theological education. I’m citing all that academic mumbojumbo to underline my point that summer reinvention needn’t be lightweight or shallow. The primary purpose – so far as I plan to experience it – is refreshment and renewal.

It’s that time of the year! B Written By: derek maul

ack when I was a schoolteacher I loved June-August for many reasons. I never taught summer school because those few weeks were an amazing opportunity to spend time with my own children. Lots of family “fieldtrips”, state parks, bike rides, beaches, the neighbor’s pool, museums, board games, books, picnics - and very little in the way of television. Then my wife Rebekah would try to take three weeks of her vacation in one block and we’d travel – extensively and on the cheap. Here are some of the more memorable family trips:

The “heritage tour” to the UK when Naomi and Andrew were eight and ten… Washington, D.C. and all the state capitols on the east coast… -

Our Civil War Battlefields bike tour

Anyway, point being that summer has always worked well for us as an opportunity for recalibration, restoration, reinvention and re-creation. Having Andrew and Naomi living at home helped The epic 7,000 mile drive to New us to be more deliberate about crafting and Mexico, Arizona, Utah, Colorado and back enjoying those kinds of experiences. to see the Saguaro, Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef and Arches Today we are out of the loop of school National Parks – and more… calendars, spring breaks and the long summer stretch. Except, that is in terms Several weeks at a beach house on Pensacola’s Santa Rosa Island of church, and that is where this summer is already budding with the beginnings of promise. Appalachian Mountain hiking; a bucket of crabs and some nutcrackers in Maryland; innumerable state park cabins… First Presbyterian of Brandon is already And the Alaska Cruise from Seattle reconstructing our physical facilities – so that marked the end of the “family of four” why not the folk who worship here too? era as Naomi met Craig and a new family We’re not the kind of congregation that was launched…. closes down programs down for the summer, mothballs Christian Education, or runs anything at half speed – but we do – four bicycles strapped to the back of one minivan (we watched the entire Ken Burns Civil War documentary over two months prior to the trip)…

This leaves us (at my latest count) with a list of six most excellent “r”-words. So I’ll repeat them below, along with the following recommendation. Take some time to think seriously about what each word/concept might potentially mean for you, especially when it comes to making plans for the coming weeks:

Recalibration

Restoration

Reinvention

Re-creation

Refreshment

Renewal

Oh, one more observation. These are all great words when it comes to living the life-charged life. And it’s no accident that they all find their best expressions in the context of faith.

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

extra » Auto Review

Fiat Cult Classic Returns T

he first Fiat 500 debuted in 1957. It proved to be a very practical car in Europe and remained popular until production ended in 1975. As a compact car, it revolutionized Europe from the scooters that had always dominated. It was considered a “practical” car with its no-frills design, offering transportation in a basic and affordable form.

Although there is a rear seat, it’s really a 2-seater with “space.” The new 2012 version is much larger; at least twice the size of the original, but weighs in just a smidge over 1,100 lbs., easily half the weight of most U.S. cars; even the ones we think of as small. The 500 is marketed to those looking for transportation with good fuel economy. Although it’s designed to compete against other compacts such as the Smart car and the Mini-Cooper, the

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Fiat falls a little short on one of the biggest marketing factors – MPG. This new 500 has a fuel economy rating of 28-38 mpg, which is a little less than the competition, but that’s not likely to keep Fiat fans away. The 2012 version has great styling, a cool interior and a retractable roof unlike anything else on the road. The styling of the 500 brings it into the 21st century. Soft lines join the four short corners together with simplicity. The wheels are pushed to the extremes of each corner to help provide the smoothest ride, given the short wheelbase. Speaking of which, did I mention the added room you’ll have in your garage with one of these? The 2012 Fiat 500 is barely over 5 feet wide and just over 11 feet long. It’s definitely a compact car. The interior is simple and straightforward.

2012 Fiat 500 Debuts submitted By: Brian West

I’m 6’1” so it was a little cramped. My size 13s noticed it most as I tried to work the pedals, which are closer together than I was mentally prepared for. It’s also a little narrow through the shoulders, but again, my size probably isn’t the norm for this car. The dash was most appealing to me. It’s reminiscent of the retro styling of the Vespa scooters. The coolest feature is the retractable roof. The window frames are part of the body, so when the roof retracts, it’s just the roof. The fabric liner folds to the back in a simple engineering design. It really made city driving even more enjoyable, allowing for me to completely sense the sights and sounds.

another and save some fuel along the way. I found it fun to drive. It’s so small; it has a kart-like feel to it. Parking is a breeze – anywhere. Even “compact” spaces feel roomy for this compact.

Under the hood, the new 500 houses a 1.4 liter inline 4-cylinder engine with 101bhp. Remember, it’s not designed to rocket you down the highway. This practical everyday driver will get you from one point to

190 Ave K SW Winter Haven, FL 33880 (888) 752-9098 Service: (863) 595-2135

The new Fiat 500 is only available at a few locations in the state of Florida, and Winter Haven happens to have one of them. For more information, visit the folks at Fiat of Winter Haven and tell them you read about the 500 in Focus Magazine.

FIAT OF WINTER HAVEN

Hometown Banking at its best!

Come and bank with your friends and neighbors

509 West Alexander Street • Plant City (across from Plant City High School)

813-707-6506 1016 Bloomingdale Ave. • Valrico 813-657-8989

Were not just Pizza, Come try our Hambugers and Chicken and Steak too! Lunch and Dinner specials every day! and View our Printable Menu on Abcpizza.com

813-752-5146

114 North Alexander Street • Plant City, Fl. 33563 BRING THIS AD IN AND RECEIVE 15% OFF

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

entertainment » artist of the month

Local Artist Follows In Footsteps of Her Parents M written By: Heather Davis

any in the Plant City art community know Punk and Louanne Watson on a first name basis. Both artists give so much of their time and energy in support of our local artists. But, some may not realize that their daughter April Haynes is also an artist and avid supporter of art in her own right.

and the local library. April can even claim that her art was stolen, since a painting on display in a Tampa hospital was stolen by perhaps an art appreciator.

Most of April’s paintings are realistic, capturing scenes of nature and wildlife. Her medium of choice is acrylics, but she also loves to work with pencil and ink as well as watercolors. In her art April is always willing to learn and try new things Growing up beside her mom Louanne and would love to learn more about gave April exposure day in and day out painting with oils. When not busy being to the creation of art. April unequivocally a mother, April also enjoys Indian bead credits her mom for providing her with work and hand quilting and is now trying both the skills and inspiration to become her hand at Web Design. Recently she has an artist. Following in her mother’s been creating websites for some of Plant footsteps, April who is also mother to two City’s artists. toddlers, proudly displayed to me the art her children are now creating under her Like her mother and father, April also guidance. assists and supports local art events such as ones held at the Art Lounge Gallery. While in junior high, April won a blue ribbon at the Strawberry Festival for her To encourage readers, April said, art and once again mentions her mom “Everyone can create art. It’s just a matter as being the guiding force. Today April of creating what you feel and love.” still loves to paint and create art every chance she gets. As a member of the Feel free to contact April Haynes via Hillsborough Art Guild, April has shown email to tabethaahaynes@yahoo.com for her art at local doctors offices, even once information about the art community paying her doctor bill with a painting, here in town. as well as at the Chamber of Commerce

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Zaxby’s DayZ ®

Monday is Nibbler Day 99¢ Nibblerz all day.

Tuesday is Zax Kidz Night ®

99¢ Zax Kidz Meals with the purchase of an adult meal from 4 p.m. to close. Limit two Zax Kidz Meals per adult entree.

Wednesday is student Day Students get 10% off with student ID card all day.

sunday is Family Night 4 Meal Dealz™ and 6 Cookies for $20 from 4 p.m. to close.

Party Platterz™ and Catering available. OFFERS VALID AT THIS LOCATION ONLY:

2901 1/2 James Redman Pkwy.

•

Plant City

•

813.752.1971

Limited time only. Offers valid at this location only. Each restaurant independently owned and operated. Adult Meals include any Zalad, Sandwich Basket, Meal Deal or Most Popular Menu Item. © 2011 Zaxby’s Franchising, Inc. “Zaxby’s,” “Party Platterz,” “Meal Dealz” and “Zax Kidz” are trademarks of Zaxby’s Franchising, Inc. foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

(813) 707-9303

2301 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City, FL

2010 FOCUS

VOTED BEST MILKSHAKE

1299

ONE TOPPING BIG SQUARE MEAL DEAL

BUY ONE GET ONE FREE Any Cone

BUY ONE GET ONE FREE

WITH CHEEZY BREAD AND ONE TWO LITER Expires 8/31/11

Any Milkshake

2909 James L. Redman Pkwy. Plant City, FL • 813-759-6400

2301 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City Expires 8-15-11 (813) 707-9303

Isn’t it beautiful? Let’s keep it that way!

100

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

$ 99 TWO TOPPING LARGE PIZZA Expires 8/31/11

2909 James L. Redman Pkwy. Plant City, FL • 813-759-6400

www.FredsSouthernKitchen.com

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

101

entertainment » dining profile

Plant City Drive-In Restaurant Written By: John Ross

he Plant City Drive-In Restaurant was established in 1957. Since then, it has had many owners, most of whom were related until now. Three years ago, Jose Valencia purchased the restaurant and his success deserves mention. Jose has refurbished the entire building including a completely new roof, new waitress station, new carpet & new booths. The restaurant still offers call-in curb service & drive-up curb service in addition to great service inside. Jose’s belief is “Great Food and Service at a Great Price.” He purchases the finest ingredients available. Almost everything is homemade. The soup is made from scratch and comes free with all sandwiches & dinners. All meats are USDA choice. Plant City Drive-In Restaurant also features the largest menu in town with more than 120 sandwich & dinner items. Jose has added new items over the three years, including their best burger - a halfpound burger served with fries & soup for only $5.65. Dinners are an especially great value - each one includes soup, salad, or vegetable & potato. Plant City Drive-In Restaurant would like to thank its regular customers and, of

102

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

course, the “snowbirds” for their constant support through the years. We at FOCUS visited and first tried the half-pound burger. As Americans, by age eight we can all look at a meaty burger and, without touching it, tell right away whether or not we’re looking at quality. This burger looks juicy from the start. The bun was fluffy and moist, and the premium sandwich tasted just how it looked - juicy, with a nice amount of lettuce and tomato. The Greek-style marinated steak tips were what you would expect from the name. Seared in a pan with plenty of mushrooms and peppers, I will say that for only $9.50 that pan was filled up. Our waitress Idell suggested the “Broasted Potatoes” as one of the restaurant’s favorite side dishes - a large potato cut lengthwise, lightly seasoned on the cut sides and served with two large cups of butter and sour cream. Other lunch and dinner entrees include the Fisherman’s Platter (Fish filet, shrimp, bay oysters, Canadian scallops, and clam strips), Ribeye Steak, and everything down to Liver & Onions. But it doesn’t stop at lunch - The restaurant opens at 6 a.m. every day, so naturally breakfast there is popular. “For breakfast we’re doing really well,” Idell said.

Visit Plant City Drive-In Restaurant soon and enjoy a huge selection of homemade food and good service in an at-home atmosphere.

Plant City Drive-In Restaurant 813-752-9202 Mon – Sat 6 a.m. – 8 p.m. Sun – 6 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. 2005 W. Baker Street Plant City, FL 33566

» dining guide

sPeciaL advertisement

813 chinese food

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

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

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

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 bread, 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 july 2011

103

» dining guide

sPeciaL advertisement

fred’s southern kitchen

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

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

oLde town Pizzeria

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

PLant city hometown buffet

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

104

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

» dining guide

sPeciaL advertisement

the red rose dining room

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

zaxby’s

axby’s offers its guests indescribably good prepared-at-order Chicken Fingerz, Jumbo Buffalo Wings, sandwiches, Zalads, Zappetizers and milkshakes along with a variety of sauces.

Zaxby’s also offers Party Platterz and catering which are perfect for any size event. Visit Zaxby’s location in Plant City at 2901 1/2 James Redman Pkwy. to find out for yourself how delicious and flavorful Zaxby’s is.

2901 1/2 james redman Pkwy. PLant city, fL 33564 (813) 752-1971 • www.zaxbys.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

105

entertainment » red rose giving the dance students a chance to show off their moves. Move over Moms and Dads - you have competition! Beginning this summer the Red Rose will also be offering dance lessons designed for children. Upcoming dance events at the Red Rose Inn include: • Kids Summer Dance Camp! Taught by Stanton, the camp runs from July 18-29th and will be followed by a dinner showcase recital. The cost is $25 per child. Registration is required. • Fall cotillion and etiquette classes. Registration required. • Talent show

Learning the East Coast Swing tonight in the dance studio.

Put on Your Dancing Shoes Join Susan Stanton for dance lessons at the Red Rose Inn written by: Catie Walker

or a break from the ordinary, join Susan Stanton weeknights for dance lessons at the Red Rose Inn. Beginners ballroom dance group classes are held Monday and Wednesday from 7:00-9:00pm. Intermediate swing classes, currently learning the West Coast Swing, are held each Tuesday from 7:00-9:00pm. Zumba, a Latin aerobic dance style is held Monday and Wednesdays at 5:15. All classes meet in room 527, with the exception of Monday night ballroom dance which is held in the dinning room. Classes are $5 per hour and all ages are welcome. Susan Stanton has danced since age three and instructed for 17 years with the last five-and-a-half spent teaching at the Red Rose Inn. She earned the title of Salsa Open State Champion in 2006 and has instructed many contestants for the Rotary Club’s annual fundraiser, Dancing with the Locals. Stanton is certified in seven areas of dance including Zumba, ballroom, swing, and Latin. Stanton expressed her appreciation to Mrs. Evelyn Madonia and the Red

106

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

In addition to ballroom dancing and Zumba, listed are other dance services offered by the Red Rose Inn: • Wedding dances • Choreography • Private dance lessons For additional information regarding events at the Red Rose Inn, contact Stanton at danceclassy@yahoo.com or visit the Red Rose monthly online calendar, www.redroseinnandsuites.com

Rose for allowing her the opportunity to do what she loves: “With the blessing of Mrs. Madonia, the Red Rose has become a hot spot for ballroom dancing in Central Florida. There is nothing else like this from Tampa to Orlando. Thank you, Mrs. Madonia, for providing this facility.” Whether you’re a couple learning for a special occasion or a single just looking to have fun, Red Rose dance lessons offer something for everyone. “Dance lessons are a great place for the singles to come and mingle. I’ve actually had three couples marry after meeting in one of my dance classes,” laughs Stanton. Robbie Weks, a veteran of Stanton’s classes at the Red Rose Inn, has been attending lessons for more than four years. “I wanted to learn how to dance. I had two left feet! I like to go to Singles Night Out at the Red Rose on Thursday nights to practice.” The newest member of the class, Pam Askey claims, “Learning how to ballroom dance has always been on my bucket list. This is my third lesson and I’m really enjoying it!” Every three months the Red Rose Inn hosts a dinner and dance showcase recital,

The beat picks up as partners begin dancing to the East Coast Swing in the dace studio.

focus » cLassifieds MisCeLLaneous DARE to DREAM now on You Tube Don’t miss his New Original “What About Us” . . . Also Missing You & It Might Be You All Performed by Alex www.youtube.com/user/ alextributes DIRECTV Lowest Price! ALL FREE: HBO|Cinemax|Starz|Showtime for 3mo + FREE NFL Sunday Ticket w/Choice Ultimate + HD/DVR Upgrade! From $29.99/mo Call by 7/21! 888-420-9466 DISH Network delivers more for less! Packages starting at $24.99/mo, Local channels included! FREE HD for life! Free BLOCKBUSTER® movies for 3 months. 1-888-418-9787 INVESTORS – Outstanding and immediate returns in equipment leasing for oilfield industry. Immediate lease out. Tax benefits and high returns. We need more equipment! 1-800491-9029 *REDUCE YOUR CABLE BILL * Get a 4-Room All-Digital Satellite system installed for Free and programming starting at $24.99/ mo. Free HD/DVR upgrade for new callers, So Call Now. 1-800-795-7279 SWIM SPA LOADED! Brand New with Warranty, 3 Pumps, LED lighting, Ozone Deluxe Cover, maintenance free cabinet. Retails for $18,900. Sacrifice $8995. Can deliver. 727851-3217 WANTED YOUR DIABETES TEST STRIPS. Unexpired. We buy Any Kind/ Brand. Pay up to $18.00 per box. Shipping Paid. Hablamos Espanol. Call 1-800-267-9895 www.SellDiabeticstrips.com

serViCes/MisCeLLaneous Abortion Not an Option? Consider Adoption. It’s a Wonderful Choice for an Unplanned Pregnancy. Living/Medical Expenses Paid. Loving, Financially Secure Families Await. 1-877-341-1309 Atty Ellen Kaplan (#0875228) ADOPTION 866-633-0397 Unplanned Pregnancy? Provide your baby with a loving, financially secure family. Living/Medical/ Counseling expenses paid. Social worker on staff. Call Compassionate Attorney Lauren Feingold (FL Bar #0958107) 24/7 ADOPTION 888-812-3678 All Expenses Paid. Choose a Loving, Financially Secure family for your child 24 Hrs 7 Days Caring & Confidential. Attorney Amy Hickman. (Lic. #832340) Are you pregnant? A childless, single woman seeks to adopt. Will be hands-on mom w/ flexible schedule. Financially secure. Expenses paid. Sheila or Adam. 1-800-790-5260. FL Bar #0150789

*DIVORCE* BANKRUPTCY Starting at $65 *1 Signature Divorce *Missing Spouse Divorce “We Come to you!” 1-888-705-7221 Since1992 LOVING ADOPTIONS GIVE YOUR BABY THE BEST IN LIFE! Loving, Financially Secure Families Waiting to Adopt. Prior Birth Mothers On Staff Living & Medical Expenses Paid Jodi Rutstein, an Attorney/Social Worker Truly Cares about You!! 1-800-852-0041 #133050 PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION? Talk with caring adoption expert. You choose from families nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID. Call 24/7 Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions. 1-866-413-6298.

eduCation/instruCtion AIRLINE MECHANIC - Train for high paying Aviation Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified - Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-314-6283 AVIATION MAINTENANCE / AVIONICS Graduate in 14 Months. FAA Approved; financial aid if qualified. Job placement assistance. Call National Aviation Academy Today! 1-800-659-2080 or NAA.edu

FinanCiaL Ever Consider a Reverse Mortgage? At least 62 years old? Stay in your home & Increase cash flow! Safe & Effective! Call Now for your FREE DVD! Call Now 888-879-2309

For saLe GIGANTIC MIRRORS Jobsite Leftovers, Brand New, Perfect Condition, 48”x100” (7), $115 each; 60”x100” (8), $140 each; 72”x100” (11), $165 each. Free delivery. 1-800-473-0619

heLP LP W Wanted ATTENTION OPC’S – Hilton Head Island, America’s largest OPC track is looking for 3 professional OPCS. Experience necessary. Call Brenda for info: 843-684-0890

Paid Training 1-866-477-4953, Ext. 57 Now Hiring!!

heaLth/MediCaL heaLth L /MediCaL Lth

Home Workers Needed Now Process Our Orders for $5 Per Envelope. Guaranteed! Start Immediately. For Free Information Call 800-531-6828 or Click WWW. HBPINFORMATION.COM

Attention Joint & Muscle Pain Sufferers: Clinically proven all-natural supplement helps reduce pain and enhance mobility. Call 888662-1941 to try Hydraflexin RISK-FREE for 90 days.

MOVIE EXTRAS Stand in the Background for Major Film Production. Earn up to $300/ day. Experience Not Required. All looks needed. Speak to a Live Person. For Details 888-6645279.

Canada Drug Center is your choice for safe and affordable medications. Our licensed Canadian mail order pharmacy will provide you with savings of up to 90% on all your medication needs. Call Today 888-372-6740 use Promo code save133 for $25.00 off your first prescription and free shipping.

MYSTERY SHOPPERS Earn up to $150 per day. Under cover Shoppers needed to judge retail and dining establishments Exp Not Re. Call 1-888-601-4861 NOW HIRING: Companies desperately need employees to assemble products at home. No selling, any hours. $500 weekly potential. Info. 1-985-646-1700 DEPT. FL-820 PROCESS Mail From Home! Pay Weekly! Free Supplies! Bonuses! Genuine Opportunity! Start Immediately! Helping Homeworkers since 1992! Call 1-888-302-1512. www. howtowork-fromhome.com

reaL estate Available Now 2-4 Bedroom Homes. Take Over Payments. No Money Down. No Credit check! Call Now 1-888-270-0372 Bring the family! Sizzling Summer specials at Florida’s Best Beach, New Smyrna Beach. See it at www.NSBFLA.com/Specials Or Call 1-800-541-9621

FEDERAL POSTAL JOBS! Earn $12 - $48 per hour / No Experience Full Benefits /

VIAGRA 100MG and CIALIS 20MG!! 40 Pills+ 4/FREE for only $99. #1 Male Enhancement, Discreet Shipping. Only $2.25/ pill. The Blue Pill Now! 1-888-797-9012

autoMoBiLes CASH FOR CARS: All Cars/Trucks Wanted. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Any Make/Model. Call For Instant Offer: 1-800-871-9638 Donate Vehicle Receive $1000 Grocery Coupons, NOAH’S ARC Support No Kill Shelters, Research to Advance Veterinary Treatments FREE TOWING, Tax Deductible, Non-Runners Accepted 1-866-912-Give

NC MOUNTAINS HALF PRICED SALE Foreclosed Lots, 2.5acres & up from $17,000. Limited time offer. High altitude, secluded, easily accessible, spectacular views. Bryson City. CALL OWNER: 1-800-810-1590 NC MOUNTAINS New custom built partially finished log cabin on 1.7 acres. Vaulted ceilings, spacious porches, private setting with paved road access. $85,000. Hurry – won’t last. 866-7385522 NORTH CAROLINA - ALMOST 2 ACRES, nice building tract, wooded, Bladen County, $12,900. Owner financing 803-473-7125

ATTN: HOME COMPUTER WORK Work 20 ACRE LAND FORECLOSURES $0 from anywhere 24/7. Up to $1,500 Part-Time to $7,500/Month Full-Time. Training provided. Down, Take Over $99/mo. Was $16,900 Now $12,900! Near Booming El Paso Texas. www.ktrglobal.com or Call 1-888-304-2847 Beautiful Views, Owner Financing, Money Back Customer Service Evaluator Needed. Multi-task Guarantee. Free Color Brochure 1-800-8437537 and computer literate. Valid ID required. Earn $400/weekly. customshopperevaluator@live. com

Local STD/HIV Testing Did you know you can have an STD and show no symptoms? Early detection and treatment can prevent permanent damage? Highest levels of privacy and discretion. Call 1-888-587-0776

we are Hiring

account Managers email your resume today!

mike@floydpublications.com

FOCUS Magazine foCUS Magazine Plant City july 2011

107

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, July 16

Friday, July 22

» Strawberry Classic Car Show 4PM Located in Historic Downtown Plant City 1986 & older cars and trucks welcome. Free registration (opens at 3pm) and admission Music, vendors & crafters Location: McCall Park - 102 N. Palmer Street For more information call 813.754.3707

» Strawberry Singles Dance Club “Fun on Friday Night’s” 7PM to 11PM Come dance and socialize, bring a friend or come alone either way you will still have fun. Price: $8 For more information: Ken Miller 863.409.7714

Tuesday, July 19

Tuesday, July 26

» “Turkish Delights” Bruton Memorial Library “Story Time” 10:30AM Come dressed for a good time. For all ages limited to the first 80 children and caregivers. For more information: 813.757.9215 Bruton Memorial Library

» Bruton Memorial Library presents “Tales from the far East” 10:30AM “Tales of the Far East” come dressed for a good time. For all ages, limited to the first 80 children & caregivers. For more information: 813.757.9215 Bruton Memorial Library

Thursday, July 21 » Didgeridoo Down Under 10:30 AM Bruton Memorial Library 302 W McClendon Street For more information: 813.757.9215 » Heart Saver CPR 6PM to 8PM This course is designed to teach students to treat breathing problems, stroke, seizures, nosebleeds, burns and more. It is specifically designed for lay persons including law enforcement officers, flight attendants, lifeguards, and parents Presented by: South Florida Baptist Hospital 301 N Alexander Street Price: $25 For more information: 813.757.1200

108

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

Donations. Helping Hands is where you want to take them. We are giving one to two suits out, to any child that needs it for school. All school supplies will be given away to. For more information: Cathy Walker 813-7814272

Saturday, August 6 » Paws to Read 10:30 AM to 12PM Bruton Memorial Library 302 McLendon Street Children can practice their reading skills for 15 minutes to a non-judgmental dog from the SPCA, who just happens to be available for adoption. For more information: 813.757.9215 Bruton Memorial Library

Tuesday, August 9 » Bruton Memorial Library 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM 302 McLendon Street Become part of an interactive circle of people, all drumming together to create a unique musical experience. Limited to the first 80 who have tickets. Free tickets will be available one week before the event. For more information: 813.757.9215 Bruton Memorial Library

» Manga and Anime Cartooning with Leah, Teen Artist 3PM to 4PM Seating is limited to the first 50 participants to register one hour before the event. For more information: 813.757.9215 Bruton Memorial Library

» Family Bedtime Stories 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM Bruton Memorial Library 302 McLendon Street Wear pajamas and bring a teddy bear for Bedtime Storytime. We’ll have special guests: Elementary Children will tell their festival stories. Door prizes and snacks will be available to the first 80 participants. For more information: 813.757.9215 Bruton Memorial Library

Saturday, July 30

Thursday, August 18

» Clothes for School 9AM to 6PM Helping Hands $1.00 Thrift Store 702 E> Alsobrook St. NEEDING CLOTHES FOR OUR KIDS Cleaning out the Closets, Kids out grew there clothes, Looking for a place,To take the

» Ed Verner in Concert-Cool Tunes on a Hot August Night 8:00 PM Presented by: Plant City Photo Archives and History Center Seating is restricted to 40. RSVP required. $35 per person includes champagne reception, wine and cheese.

Wednesday, July 27

Sponsored by Hopewell Funeral Homes and Memorial Garden’s and Carole Wright , CPA. For more information: 813.754.1578 or info@ plantcityphotoarchives.org; gvgott@gmail.com

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) Red Rose Inn & Suites - Every Tuesday & Wednesday Prime Rib & Seafood Buffet Enjoy baked, broiled, steamed, and fried seafood including lightly battered fried shrimp. Succulent steamed crab legs, even tender prime rib au jus with all the trimmings! All this plus salads and desserts to tempt the most demanding 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.

Sundays:

A new church is now meeting at the Red Rose Inn Ballroom on Sundays at 10am and 6pm. Join the Sanctuary of Praise each week to check out the exciting services! If you are tired of the same old ways, the same tired, boring and sleepy church services then come visit this new non-demoninational church. For questions, visit www.thesanctuaryofpraise.webs.com or call Pastor Joe C. Kelley at 813-943-2620. You may also email questions to thesanctuaryofpraise@ymail.com

entertainment » crossword A O R T A

B R O S

A G U E

J I M S

B L I P

A S T A

M O U S E B L O U S E L E N O

R U D E F A V O M S S

T S I L E C A D T I N E T E W K T I S T L U S N I E T T A E A M E D E N E S E C A R C C O I A N D D Y

D O E S H O O C S T E A B L O T S O S E A M U B G O S S

S C A L O A R I U T O P R H O S I A M S T O H L E S A R A I D N D Y T S B S WA P A L A I R E N D S T S S S L O P A R L E U T T E R E C L A R

A N G I A B E S L E N E R A S I S L I E V E I E S S I T L G C O G L A N I T U C S O H A O T E

O P I E

R E R A N

C A A L S O E T D P S E T R U T N O P R L A O D

R R I A S M B E R B R A G I G I A T E N T H E A K Y B I O C I T Y R T H O O C I E R S A L E O G L E C O A L K P E P P O R T S E R S I T S

Animal Wardrobes

ASSISTING YOU in YOUR Home!

Homemaker &

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

animal wardrobes created By: Calvin R. and Jackie Mathews ANIMAL ACROSS 1. Boring routines 5. Milan’s La __ 10. Singer Vikki 14. Sullied 17. Rower’s task 19. Pseudonym 21. Fruit with a huge seed 22. Perfect place 23. Grave 25. Submissions to a publisher: abbr. 26. 4 to 4, e.g. 27. Fraternity letters 28. Sugar source 30. Two-cup item 31. Takes home 32. “__ Woman”; Helen Reddy hit 33. Luge vehicle 34. ’58 Best Picture Oscar winner 35. Competent 38. Multitude 40. Rara avis 41. Altar plate 42. Wiped out 43. New York’s Ed 44. Pasturelands 45. __ Thomas 46. Beautician’s offering 47. Suffix for canoe or guitar 48. Tour of India souvenir 49. Like a poor paint job 52. Andrew or John 54. First __ 55. Columbo, for one: abbr. 57. Brief life sketch 58. Annapolis acad. operator 59. Mayberry resident 60. Miner’s find 61. Jackson or Lincoln 62. Mr. Farr 65. Lunch orders, familiarly 66. 20th-century First Lady 67. Mattress name 68. “__ a Name”; ’73 Jim Croce song 69. “Sesame Street” viewers 70. Cool one’s heels 71. Paid player 72. Half a dress? 73. Fable teller 74. Inclusive word 75. Ice mass 79. Seeds on a roll 81. English river 83. Avian noise 84. Buyer’s delight 85. First garden

86. 87. 88. 89. 91. 92. 93. 94. 95. 96. 97. 100. 101. 102. 103. 104. 107. 109. 111. 113. 114. 115. 116. 117. 118.

WARDROBES 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 18.

Football positions Pleased Flirt with Innocent ones Qt. and gal. Irritated state Fuel, for some Part Chicago __ Ed Asner role Bottle topper Gold in Guadalajara Mythological ship Hole averages Unlock, in poetry Vigor Outer wall coating Detective John Wayne or JFK Japanese or Nepalese Platter player Puzzling problems Whirlpool St. __ of Assisi Tiny insects

20. 24. 29. 31. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 39. 40. 41. 43. 44. 45. 48. 49. 50. 51. 53. 54. 56. 59. 61.

DOWN 1. Guns the engine 2. Eerie sightings, for short 3. Small twitch 4. Layered rock 5. Rather tart 6. Animal accessory? 7. “__ With a View”; 1985 movie 1

5 15

100 108

102 109

110

114 116

104

105

106

92 96

101

113

75 83

50 57

107

49 55

13 20

58 63

89. 90. 91. 92. 95. 96. 98. 99. 101. 102. 104. 105. 106. 108. 110. 112.

Malarial fever Animal garb? Supervisor Work with hay __ pro nobis Prom goer Civil & Gulf Walk heavily City in Iowa Animal garb? “Othello” character __ Fitzgerald Virginia __ “Zip-__-Doo Dah” Dog tags, for short CCCII halved Create bas-relief Animal accessory? Some sibs Aneurysm site Hot time: abbr. Categorizer Old friend __ Bush Ron Howard role Showed again Military sch. Strip Versifier Goofs Half-qts. Spanish hero Maj.’s superior Chi follower

63. 64. 65. 66. 67. 69. 70. 71. 73. 75. 76. 77. 78. 80. 82. 83. 86. 87.

10 18

by Calvin R. & Jackie Mathews

Facial features Black cuckoo Boxed “Thanks __!” Edge Animal garb? Hoover, for one Make corrections Animals’ accessories? Features of a Hawthorne house Twilled fabric Parade spoiler Suffix for ballad or musket Animal garb? Animal accessory? Entry TV pooch Radar screen image Late-night personality 10th of 12: abbr. Anthem contraction Shampoo brand Potter’s need Ma’am Shock Caesar and others Tres y tres Friends and relations Ma, for one Literary monogram Animals’ garb? Suffix for class or fuss __ sax Animal accessory?

93 97

103 111

112

115 117

118

The Strawberry Classic Car Show, Plant City Bike Fest and many other downtown events surround this two story, 4000 sq ft, newly renovated (in 2005) commercial building in the historic district of Downtown Plant City. Rooted deep in the community, as it was once the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hospital, shoe store, restaurant and most recently the offices of Focus Magazine. This building has it all: exposed brick walls, a full service cafĂŠ with drive through window, completely wired with 16 data (cat 5) and phone jacks. Nothing was left untouched during renovation. This building has all new upgraded electric, plumbing, refurbished windows, drop ceiling, awning and paint. If you are looking for a building with character in a great location this one is for you.

Price Reduced. Now Only $275,000

813-924-4287

Take a video tour and see additional pics at www.101building.com

110

july 2011 focusplantcity.com

John Carter, D.M.D. | Trey Mueller D.M.D.

Locally owned and operated

John Carter, D.M.D.

Full Mouth Reconstruction  Teeth Whitening  Orthodontists  Replacement of Missing Teeth White Fillings  Extractions  Perio Gum Treatment (non-surgical)  Tempromandibular Disorders (TMJ) Implants  Financing Available  Most Insurances Accepted

1701 S Alexander St. Suite 114 | Office: 813-704-6918 Free Exam and X-Rays with Basic Cleaning of $75.00 (For new patients only)

Teeth Whitening Special

$235.00

July only • Must Present Ad

The patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment, or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination or treatment that is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to this advertisement for the free, discounted fee, or reduced fee service examination or treatment.

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.® We’ll beat your best price

GUARANTEED on the name brand tires we sell including Goodyear, Continental, and Michelin

$99.95 BRAKE SERVICE

New Quick Lane Manager Matt Alexander

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

Most cars and light trucks

Shop supplies and tax not included. Machining rotors extra Expires 8/15/2011

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 TIRE PRICE GUARANTEED!

888-533-0777

1475 W Main St. • Bartow, FL 33830

www.BartowChevrolet.com 112

july 2011 focusplantcity.com