FOCUS Plant City 12-09

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CONTENTS September 2013 | Volume 12 Issue 9 | focusplantcity.com

ONTHECOVER Photography by Anthony Sassano

Plant City, Durant & Strawberry Crest Quarterbacks

18-41 Local

As summer fades and families are no longer spending time on vacation, Plant City is springing back to life. And there’s so much going on right now! This month, we were excited to cover the dedication of Buddy Bennett Field as well as the fundraiser for Brooklynn Santos. In addition, we look forward to New Life Church’s Famfest event and the several 5K races to take place in the near future--Romp in the Swamp and Good Cookie 5K.

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Spotlight: High School Football Preview

Our own Joe Bowles had the opportunity to speak with each of the area’s high school football head coaches on what they expect from their players this year. This season will be more exciting than ever, as Durant, Plant City, and Strawberry Crest High Schools will be competing in the same district.

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Feature: Business Focus

There’s not much we enjoy more than highlighting our area’s small businesses and organizations. This month, we take a deeper look into the operations of A&W Cabinets and Remodeling, Courtney Paat State Farm, The Crossing Church, Dukes Chiropractic, Fortis Institute, O’Neal & Sons Upholstry, Pakmail, Railroad & Industrial Federal Credit Union, Uptown Girls, and Walden Lake Car Wash.

Make sure to read their stories and discover even more reasons to “Buy Local.”

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Feature: Rotary Club AED Project

Every few years, the Rotary Club takes on an additional major project in addition to the work they already do for the countless number of local charities. This year, the civic organization will be working to purchase AEDs to ensure each Plant City Police Department patrol car is equipped with a lifesaving device. Find out how important this project is to the safety of our community.

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Dining: The Best Cuban Sandwiches

At FOCUS, we love food, especially Cuban Sandwiches. Although Tampa has named the food their town’s signature sandwich, we have much to offer right here in Plant City. Check out our list of where to find the best Cubans in town.

See Also: Talk of the Town - 14-16 Finance - 69 Real Estate - 70-76 Athlete of the Month - 80 Team of the Month - 83 Seniors of the Month - 85 Derek Maul Column - 87 Candy’s Corner - 88 Wanda’s Words of Wisdom - 93 Recipe of the Month - 95 Event Calendar - 100 Crossword - 101 Obituaries - 102

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

Thankfully, Plant City Dolphins’ football league president Buddy Bennett has acted on one of his passions for more than 19 years now. The man who is battling colon cancer was surprised this month at an appreciation day fundraiser when he learned the new Buddy Bennett Field had been named for his longtime volunteer commitment. Bennett has definitely helped youth football/ cheerleading programs take it to the next level.

The Rotary Club has taken on a “next level” challenge as well with their newest project, the ambitious attempt to purchase AED devices for all 68 of Plant City’s police patrol cars. Presently, the department only has four portable devices because they cost thousands of dollars each. Let’s help them do this!

Since another popular area passion is music, we’re know you’ll enjoy reading of “The Bands for Brooklynn” event. Proceeds will support 5-year-old Brooklynn Santos in her fight against spinal muscular atrophy.

Other good news stories include an update on Plant City Community Ministries, the Good Cookie 5K race for pediatric cancer research funds, and Laura Vazquez’s fight against the meningitis-caused stroke.

Displaying generosity is one thing our eastern Hillsborough County community does so well.

Thank you, readers, for your role in helping our next generations discover the next level of giving back.

Your faithful support is the “give back” that makes our next level of community news possible.

Keep up the great work!

Warmest Regards, Mike Floyd 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 Christina DoVale cdovale@floydpublications.com

Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990

Editorial Director Amanda Deck adeck@floydpublications.com

www.focusplantcity.com Sales Dede Floyd | Jennifer Chamberlain 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.

Art Director Anthony Sassano FOCUSTV Shana Mitchell | Victoria Garren Distribution Belva DeVane

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.

Photographers NamPhan Photography Staff Writers Cheryl Johnston | Brian West Joe Bowles | Amanda Deck | Deana Garrison Darcie Jarrett | Taylor Thomas | Charlotte Thompson Contributors Gil Gott | Derek Maul | Jo-An Lusk Nate Davis | Candy Owens | Natalie Sweet

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Our September spotlight shines on the high school football programs in which many have found theirs. And many started young.

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Each year it’s all about taking it to the next level. Ask any teacher how their students can best progress with success, and you’ll hear, “Help them discover their passion.”

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You can feel it in the air—the great start to this new academic year in Plant City area schools. It’s a tangible excitement with teachers anxious to teach, coaches ready to coach and students ready to learn.

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Plant City’s Hometown Plumber You Can Depend On

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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Talk Town of the

SUBMIT YOUR NEWS TO EDITORIAL@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM. LIKE US ON FACEBOOK AT FACEBOOK.COM/THEFOCUSMAGAZINE

REMEMBERING THE LEGENDS

Friday night football is finally underway and FOCUS Magazine is excited to see which young men from Plant City, Durant, and Strawberry Crest High Schools will step up and have standout seasons. Let’s take a look back and remember two of Plant City’s high school football legends, as chosen by Big County Preps. Will any of this year’s players match up with some of our town’s best ever?

RUSSELL EVANS PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL QUARTERBACK - 1990 Evans received several honors throughout his high school football career, including All-Conference, AllCounty, and All-State. This field general led Hillsborough County in passing his senior year, compiling 1,764 passing yards and 14 touchdowns and leading his team to a 9-1 record. Evans was also a star basketball player for the Raiders, becoming the first player to be named First Team All-State in basketball and football since 1982. His 2,540 career points in basketball rank as the most in Hillsborough County history. The Tampa Bay Times named him one the county’s greatest overall high school athletes of all time.

CANNOLES A “HIT” WITH CLEARWATER CHRISTIAN COLLEGE Former Plant City High School first baseman Travis Cannoles recently signed a letter-of-intent to play baseball for the Clearwater Christian College Cougars. With Cannoles at his signing were his former Raiders’ coaches Joe Bowles and Mark Persails. Cannoles was a 2011 graduate of Plant City High School, and leader of the 201011 team that went 18-6 overall and 10-2 in the district.

JEANS AND JACKET GALA TO FEATURE NIK WALLENDA On Sunday, June 23, aerialist Nik Wallenda successfully crossed the Grand Canyon via tightrope.

His death-defying feat was an inspiration to the millions of viewers who witnessed the Skywire walk live on the Discovery Channel. This November, Plant City will welcome the Sarasota native at the annual Jeans & Jacket Gala at the Strawberry Festival Expo Hall as the event’s special guest. In anticipation of Wallenda’s arrival, check out some of the stats related to his feat.

TRAE WILLIAMS DURANT HIGH SCHOOL RUNNING BACK AND DEFENSIVE BACK - 2003

Williams achieved much during his high school career, earning All-State, All-County, and All-Suncoast honors.

During his senior year, he scored a school record of 22 touchdowns (including six on punt returns), rushed for 1,355 yards, and recorded 10+ yards per carry. Williams continued his career at USF.

GET THE [MUD RUN] GEAR The popularity of mud runs across the country has skyrocketed. And this fall, mud runs are filling the Plant City schedule from Keel and Curley’s Blueberry Stomp Mud Run on Saturday, September 8, South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation’s and Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s Romp in the Swamp on Saturday, October 12, and the return of the Mudzilla (now MudTitan Mud Run) in December.

If you’re a mud run fanatic and plan to get down and dirty in one or all of these races, be sure to get clothing that will help you perform at your best.

Damion Trombley, mudrun addict and founder of MudRunFun.com shares his top “must haves” when it comes to mud run gear!

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CANNOLES’ SENIOR SEASON STATISTICS: Batting Average - .361 At-Bats - 72 Hits - 26

Doubles - 4 Home Runs - 2 RBIs - 18 (tied for team lead)

SOCKS:

Although most racers run without socks, Damion suggests the injinji toesocks brand is most popular. Not only does the sock provide extra padding under the foot, but the double elastic cuff and mesh top locks out dirt and debris while allowing your foot to breathe.

In other words, say goodbye to those unwanted blisters.

These trail socks can be purchased at injinji.com.

2 inches = thickness of the steel cable that spanned across the Little Colorado River Gorge 1,500 feet = height of the cable above ground level 1,400 feet = entire length of steel cable 22 minutes = time Wallenda took to cross the Little Colorado River Gorge via steel cable 0 = number of people to cross the Grand Canyon via tightrope before Wallenda 13 million = number of viewers who tuned into the Discovery Channel to witness Wallenda’s feat

GLOVES: SHOES:

If you aren’t worried about the possibility of going barefoot, then strap on your pair of trusted tennis shoes. But if you’re serious about winning, Damion highlights a couple brands that are great at keeping dirt and moisture away from your feet, including Vibrams, Merrell’s Barefoot, Solumons Trail Shoes, and multiple versions of the inov-8. Pictured here is another good choice: the New Balance Minimus.

Damion is a huge advocate of the Gorilla Grip gloves. They are available at any Home Depot location and cost about $5. “A couple members of the MudRunFun Elite group use these gloves and they last a few events,” said Damion.

“They run a lot of events, so I trust them.”

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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Talk Town of the

SUBMIT YOUR NEWS TO EDITORIAL@FLOYDPUBLICATIONS.COM. LIKE US ON FACEBOOK AT FACEBOOK.COM/THEFOCUSMAGAZINE

PUNT, PASS & KICK COMPETITION We’re excited to announce that the Punt, Pass & Kick competition, sponsored by the National Football League, is coming back to Plant City on Saturday, September 28. The free event will “kick off” at 8:30 a.m. at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex. For registration information, contact Danny Smith of the Plant City Parks and Recreation Department at 813-659-4200.

Will this year’s competitors have what it takes to beat the scores of last year’s winners? *Overall score combines individual punt, pass, and kick distances

WE’RE TALKING TATAS On Saturday, August 24, the Wells Memorial and Event Center held a fundraiser for the Susan G. Komen Foundation. In honor of this significant event, we’re sharing with you 10 ways to help reduce your risk of breast cancer.

ü Be physically active (get regular exercise) ü Achieve and maintain a healthy weight ü Eat at least 2 1/2 cups for fruits and vegetables every day ü Choose 100 percent whole grain foods more often ü Limit red meat and processed meats. Choose chicken, fish, or beans instead. ü Cut down on “bad” fats (saturated and trans fats) and eat more “good” fats (polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats)

ü Get enough vitamin D and calcium everyday. ü If you drink alcohol, limit to less than one drink of alcohol per day. Those who drink alcohol

should get enough folic acid, either through a multivitamin or foods like oranges, orange juice, leafy green vegetables, and fortified breakfast cereals. ü Know your risk for cancer by discovering your family health history ü Get screened by a health care provider. That means having a mammogram every year starting at age 40 if you’re at average risk and having a clinical breast exam at least every three years starting at age 20 and every year starting at age 40.

FCA TO OFFER MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR AN OUTSTANDING EDUCATION Faith Christian Academy of Plant City is pleased to announce the acceptance of Step Up For Students and McKay Scholarships for students in this area. FCA is the area’s premier private school--inspiring, teaching and ministering to the needs of families through education. FCA is excited about how they can offer opportunities for local families in fulfilling a dream for children to attend private school. Please contact the main office at 813-473-2090 or visit fcapc.com today to enroll your child! FOCUS got to interview two precious students on why they love attending Faith Christian Academy.

“I love coming to Faith Christian Academy because it is so much FUN! Real FUN!” - Jadeyah Delapenha, Grade 4

*Adapted from the American Cancer Society’s Nutrition and Physical Activity Guidelines and komen.com

“I’VE GOT A GOLDEN...

KEEL AND CURLEY CORK!”

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In the film/book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Charlie Bucket found a golden ticket wrapped around his chocolate bar, allowing him to tour Willy Wonka’s top-secret candymaking establishment. Starting August 21, Keel and Curley’s customers got a chance to participate in similar contest— trading chocolate for wine, golden tickets for golden corks, and factory tours for a trip to San Francisco and Napa Valley—when the winery released 10 golden corked bottles to the public. Keel and Curley wines are sold in 1,500 stores in Florida and Georgia including Publix, Walmart, and Total Wine, and golden corks are still waiting to be found by lucky customers. All winning entries must be submitted to Joe Keel at joe@keelandcurleywinery.com by October 1. All qualifiers will be invited to a special gathering on October 10 when the grand prize winner will be announced. Other qualifiers will receive a gift basket containing approximately $300 in Keel and Curley prizes. Help Keel and Curley Winery celebrate 1 million bottles sold and their 10-year anniversary by participating in this extraordinary contest.

SEPTEMBER 2013 focusplantcity.com

“I like to come to Faith Christian Academy because I want to come.”

- Braylon Campbell, PreK

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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LOCAL

MEET PLANT CITY’S

NEW FIRE RESCUE CHIEF

DANIEL AZZARITI F

Article by Cheryl Johnston

ocus is pleased this month to welcome Most recently, he was a senior consultant Daniel Azzariti, the new Chief of for C3 Pathway.

Plant City Fire Rescue and his wife of 30 years, Nancy.

Azzariti has associate degrees in Fire Science, EMS and Nursing, as well as a Together they have two daughters and a bachelor’s in management. He is wellson. known as a fire-based EMS advocate. “I believe that method of service delivery As collectors of classic cars and appreciators is very rewarding to both the firefighter of historic homes, the Azzaritis already paramedic as well as the community we feel comfortable with the move they’ll serve.” be making from Spring Hill to become “planted” here.

Regarding Plant City’s two fire stations and equipment, Azzariti offered: “It’s my “We traveled from Spring Hill to Plant understanding the existing equipment is City for the car show many times,” the new well-maintained. The stations require some Chief explained. “I’ve been into cars since maintenance and repairs have already been I was a kid and always liked the unusual scheduled. I believe eventually we’ll need ones.” to place another rescue unit in service as well as a third station, but we must conduct As to their home search, Azzariti shared, “I thorough research before even considering don’t know if we’ll look for a historic home such a move. Quite often station placement or one with enough property to build a is decided based on incomplete data or large garage. We want to get to know the simply the availability of lower priced area better before we make a decision.” property. That decision could create a very expensive mistake that lasts for decades.

He retired in 2008 after serving as Fire When a recommendation is made, it will Chief for 13 of his 30 plus years in New be based on current and future needs of the Port Richey. He also served as Deputy Fire City.”

Chief for Marion County Fire Rescue.

Pictured with new Chief Daniel Azzariti (center) are Division Chiefs David Burnett (L) and E.M. “Gene” Shuler. Photo by Cheryl Johnston

He commented also on the great reputation of our Fire Rescue and EMS personnel: “Our peers respect the department and its members. As fire chief in New Port Richey I recognized and was very impressed with the Plant City Fire Rescue’s accomplishments.

Firefighters in neighboring departments also spoke highly of our firefighters. Now that I’m here, I’m even more impressed.

Although I’m not sure what changes will be necessary yet, I can envision some finetuning over a period of time. I’d like to learn more about the department prior to considering any changes.”

“This department is a well-balanced mix of young, well-trained firefighters as well as seasoned veterans with a great deal of experience and advanced training,” he continued. “The line and staff officers have decades of experience. The city is fortunate we have experts in fire suppression, EMS and all aspects of fire rescue.”

“The most difficult part of serving as Chief is providing the things our firefighters and community need in difficult economic times,” he added. “It is imperative that as Chief, I am sure my people have the tools to do their job. If they don’t, I must make every effort possible to get what they need to keep them out of harm’s way.”

As to what the Azzaritis are enjoying about Plant City so far, the new Chief answered: “Prior to arriving, I would have said the downtown and historic area were what we loved most. Now that I’m here, it is hands down the people in the fire department and the rest of the City. The residents and visitors are very fortunate that Plant City has assembled a workforce truly second to none. I have not met many residents yet, but those I have met have been very welcoming.”

We invite you, Focus readers, to add to that number.

The Plant City Fire Department took time on Wednesday, September 11 to honor those who courageously served our country during the 9/11 attacks. Photo by Cheryl Johnston

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IMPORTANT

Dr. Brenda Dukes Chiropractic Physician

INFORMATION ON THE INFLUENZA (FLU) VACCINE . . .

-PLEASE BE INFORMED-

What is Influenza?

Also called the Flu; is a contagious respiratory infection caused by a virus. Mostly it strikes during winter. Some of the main symptoms are fever, chills, runny nose, sore throat, cough, headache, muscle aches, fatigue and decreased appetite.

Most conditions will usually improve in two to three days. Most treatment consists of allowing the disease to run its course. Antibiotics will not subdue the flu virus. Bed rest and drinking lots of fluids are often recommended.

That is why to do so many different things to strengthen your immune system is so encouraged.

CHIROPRACTIC follows what all health providers know; that the nervous system controls and coordinates all organs and structures of the human body. Therefore; to be adjusted, diet and nutrition along with exercise would encourage or help to avoid or lessen the potential to be affected.

Why is the flu so common?

There are three main types of the flu virus and each type can mutate, or change, from year to year. This makes it difficult to develop immunity to disease.

Since there is no single flu vaccine that exists, each year health officials put together what they think may be the strain for the year.

Flu shot is linked to Alzheimer’s disease.

According to Hugh Funderburg, MD, the world’s leading immunogeneticist, the chances of getting Alzheimer’s disease is ten times higher if an individual has had five consecutive flu shots.

Is the flu shot effective?

According to Sherri Tenpenny, DO, vaccine researcher “the fact that the flu shots are ineffective in every age group hardly seems to matter to those who continually promote their use. Multiple studies published in highly reputable publications have documented that flu shots are ineffective in all ages.”

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

Blessings from 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.

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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LOCAL

AN A“MAZE”ING GOOD TIME

FOX SQUIRREL CORN MAZE Article by Darcie Jarrett

The Futch family will be hosting the Fox Squirrel Corn Maze at their farm yet again this year. The maze will be open Saturdays and Sundays from October 12 to November 3. The maze is reserved for field trips and groups of 20 or more on Fridays. Photo courtesy of the Futch Family

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all is right around the corner, and with it comes not only a relief from the summer heat, but more outdoor activities. Plant City is no stranger to family fun events.

will also be some other fun things worth spending a couple extra bucks.

This year, the Futch family farm will feature a butterfly exhibit and plans are currently in the confirmation stages for pony rides.

These extras will be added along with other fun, returning activities such as a pumpkin patch, hay rides, and store and food/ refreshment vendors.

One activity to mark on the calendar is the Fox Squirrel Corn Maze—which is hosted by the Futch Family on their farm at 3002 Charlie Taylor Road in North Plant City.

The Single R Ranch has been in the area since 1920 and has developed over 2,000 “We’re trying to make it as family-friendly acres of land used for cattle and citrus as possible,” expressed Futch. “That’s been production. our goal from the beginning.”

This year’s corn maze will be in operation from October 12 to November 3 on Saturdays and Sundays, with Fridays being reserved for field trips and groups of 20 or more.

This is the Futch’s second year operating the event, and the two week festivities are staffed solely by family and friends.

The Futch family is also giving back to the community in a big way: “This year Carson Futch said his family decided is the first year we are going to do a $500 to do the event to help the community scholarship for a student in agriculture at find out what their farm is all about: “We Plant City High School.” want children to come out and learn about agriculture and have a fun family day that’s Futch beams with the ability to share how not expensive.” much he and his family have been blessed.

“We give all the glory to God!” Prices are $10 for adults and $9 for children ages 3 through 17. Children under 3 are free For more information, visit and all prices are taxable. Acceptable forms www.foxsquirrelcornmaze.com or of payment are cash and Visa/MasterCard, email futchentertainment@comcast.net. but keep your wallet close by because there “Can you outfox their squirrely corn maze?”

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SEPTEMBER 2013 focusplantcity.com

O’Neal Neal & Sons Upholstery

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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LOCAL

SUPPORTING ONE

OF OUR OWN

Kitchen, Norma’s Cuban Sandwich Shop, “Laura has phenomenal potential, and I’d and the Plant City Drive-In. Individuals love to see her back at 100 percent,” said can also donate funds directly to Laura Evan. “I think it’s possible, but it’s going to Vazquez’s personal account at Suncoast be a long, hard road.”

Schools Federal Credit Union.

COMMUNITY GATHERING FUNDS FOR LAURA VAZQUEZ

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n 2010, Laura Vazquez graduated with honors from Plant City High School, ranking 124th out of 550 students.

In fact, it was her graduating class that set the bar high for future PCHS classes, especially when it came to academic and extracurricular achievement as, at that time, Principal Colleen Richardson praised them as some of the most talented and driven students she’d seen in the school’s history.

Article by Amanda Deck

give her credit for,” said Evan. “She is not limited by her disability. I felt a special connection to her, and even though I’ve been offered to work other places, I stay here because of Laura. I feel God has placed me and Laura here at the same time, and it’s my goal to help her get better.”

Businesses and organizations throughout Plant City have partnered with Laura’s family to help raise funds for continual Therefore, like most of her peers, Laura’s hyperbaric treatments—from the Knights future was exceedingly bright, and she of Columbus and St. Clement Catholic enrolled at Hillsborough Community Church to Hungry Howie’s and Beef ‘O’ College in hopes of becoming a teacher.

Brady’s. Other locations collecting money for Laura’s cause include Fred’s Southern However, during Laura’s second quarter at HCC, she became tragically ill, struck by a rare form of meningitis. At just 19 years old, Laura suffered an almost-deadly stroke due to the disease, leaving her paralyzed on the right side.

Laura Vazquez was struck by a rare form of meningitis, causing her to have stroke and lose all movement on her right side. Laura has started treatment which has resulted in great success. However, she needs the community’s help to continue with the healing process. Photo courtesy of Evan Wheeler

Things only seemed to worsen for Laura when she was stricken with osteomyelitis.

In order to treat her wound associated with the bone infection, Laura received hyperbaric oxygen treatments at South Florida Baptist Hospital.

After a few treatments, Laura’s health was on the rise. Not only was her wound healing, but the hyperbaric medicine was relieving the symptoms caused by the stroke as her speech began to improve and she started to regain body movement. Laura’s mother, Maria Ortiz, hopes to continue the hyperbaric treatments; however, after multiple hospital stays, surgeries, and other necessary medical costs, the family’s finances are tight. Laura is relying on the community to help regain as much of her life as possible.

One of Laura’s biggest advocates is Evan Wheeler, a Certified Hyperbaric Technologist at SFBH. Evan formed a bond with Laura immediately, inspired by her good attitude despite all the adversity she has faced at a young age.

“Although Laura has suffered a serious brain injury, I look into her eyes and know Laura Vazquez spends some time with SFBH Hyperbaric Technologist Evan Wheeler and nurse Kim Spade. she is so much more intelligent than people Photo courtesy of Evan Wheeler

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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LOCAL

“BANDS FOR BROOKLYNN”

EVENT RAISES FUNDS FOR PLANT CITY GIRL Article by Deana Garrison

U

nless you have experienced it for yourself, you have no idea what it feels like to be told your child has a life-changing illness that they will endure for their entire life. The feeling of devastation and helplessness sneaks in on you like a tornado ripping through a town. The gloom and feeling of defeat is overwhelming. The medical bills start piling in as well as the countless hours of worry.

granted from this sweet little girl. SMA takes away the ability to raise her arms up, scratch an itch, lift a cup to drink, or simply just give a hug, among many others things.

With all of the modifications of daily life for their little girl comes a great need for modifications to their home as well as added equipment. Insurance will only cover so much and the expenses seem to keep climbing. Brooklynn’s parents could 5-year-old Brooklynn Santos fights Spinal Muscular Atrophy on a daily basis.

SMA is a genetic disease that attacks nerve cells, called motor neurons, in the When Shawn and Jayson Santos had their use all the support they can get in order to spinal cord. Photos courtesy of Shawn Santos sweet bundle of joy, Brooklynn, they never care for their child.

On Saturday, September 7, the Noise help in purchasing all the equipment and dreamed that less than one year later they would be faced with the concern of their Macia and Bob Minutello introduced the Box performed at the event called “Bands renovations needed. daughter’s health. Before she was 1 year Santos family to the Noise Box. The Noise for Brooklynn” at Christ Community old, Brooklynn was diagnosed with Spinal Box is a concert venue for local bands to Church in Brandon. Many people were If you missed this event and are interested Muscular Atrophy. SMA is a genetic donate to local ministries. Many of them in attendance and around 40 businesses in making any donations or wanting to disease that attacks nerve cells, called are made up of young college students. donated to this great cause. The night purchase an item that the proceeds go They perform while raising money for was made possible by 12 major sponsors. towards her cause, you can find them motor neurons, in the spinal cord.

When all was said and done the family on Facebook under the page “Bands for someone in need. was very thankful for the huge amount Brooklynn” or call Shawn at 813-495Now at 5 years old, this illness has taken of money that is definitely needed to 1045. away many simple tasks that we all take for

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WELCOME TO BUDDY BENNETT FIELD

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DOLPHINS HOME TURF DEDICATED TO LONGTIME PRESIDENT Article by Amanda Deck

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SEPTEMBER 2013 focusplantcity.com

9/2/2013 7:49:05 AM

Buddy Bennett (third from left) posed with many friends and family members during an appreciation day honoring his many years of hard work as Plant City Dolphins Football and Cheerleading Organization president.

Photo by Amanda Deck

I

n the book of Genesis, God declared that Abraham would do great things, that he would be a father of many nations and his descendants would fill the earth.

God knew that today we would read about Abraham’s life. His story—not without its ups and downs, achievements and mistakes—would encourage us to live each day to the fullest with God at the very center.

The story of Buddy Bennett is similar to that of Abraham. During the last 19 years serving as the President of the Plant City Dolphins Football and Cheerleading Organization, Buddy Bennett has done great things. And the greatest thing he’s done in his life is to help transform the lives of hundreds of young boys and girls in our community. In other words, Buddy’s Plant City Dolphins descendants are his family and almost as numerous as the stars.

But like Abraham, Buddy has encountered his fair share of heartache as, earlier this year, he was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer.

Yet Buddy continues to inspire, remaining committed to the Plant City Dolphins and his story has encouraged others at an even greater level than before. He hasn’t let his

diagnosis change his huge heart and his faith in the Lord is stronger than ever.

In fact, his story is so inspirational that Plant City officials dedicated the Dolphins’ home turf at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex “Buddy Bennett Field” during Buddy Bennett Appreciation Day on Saturday, September 7. Although the day was a time of celebration—with plenty of food, fun, and football—everyone in attendance stepped away for moment and gathered for the special, serious occasion.

The announcement of Buddy Bennett Field, made by former Plant City mayor Michael Sparkman, came as a complete surprise to the longtime Dolphins president, and it left the hundreds in attendance in tears. After the special presentation, Dolphins football players and cheerleaders, along with their parents and coaches, each honored Buddy with a gift, a hug, and a handshake.

Buddy Bennett Appreciation Day was a long time coming and Buddy was truly deserving of a whole day dedicated to himself, especially for someone so giving of his time and resources to ensure our youth are directed toward a better future. Thanks to Buddy Bennett for all his hard work in our community. You are appreciated and may your Dolphins descendants continue to fill Plant City.

LOCAL

FIRST ANNUAL FUN

ROMP IN THE SWAMP O

Article by Johanna Santana

vercome obstacles, challenge your physical boundaries and even get married while serving a good cause will all be possible at the Plant City’s Romp in the Swamp 5K run on Saturday, October 12.

going over and under trees that have fallen down.”

From 8:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m., participants will run in waves. Kids, ages 5 and up will have the chance to do a onemile run at noon. The rest of the course will be open to ages 14 and above.

After saying their “I dos” the married couples will go through the obstacles.

While a committee of 20 volunteers and experienced runners are helping with the design, keeping safety as a priority, Advantage Restoration is building the Created by the Foundation to benefit the obstacles.

South Florida Baptist Hospital, Romp in the Swamp will be a family event complete Meanwhile, to celebrate the wedding with music, food vendors and prizes. anniversary of the owners of fellow participants MudRunFun, there will be a During the run, participants will encounter wedding wave at 10:30am for those who a three-mile stretch of natural obstacles would like to get married or renew their built to entertain and challenge through vows. the landscape of the Lower Green Swamp Preserve, which use was donated by “So people will be running in wedding dresses and tuxedos,” said Butler.

Hillsborough County.

“We are using the natural landscape for the run,” said Jana Butler, Executive Director of the Foundation. “Participants will be running through a creek, twice. They’ll be

“They’ll have a tie-the-knot where we’ll tie them together and they have to do the obstacle together,” explained Butler. “And there will be one called the ball-and-chain where we’ll actually take a bowling ball, attach it to their legs and they will do the obstacle with that.”

The Romp in the Swamp 5K run will take place in the Lower Green Swamp Preserve. Photo courtesy of Jana Butler

Course builders are taking advantage of natural obstacles present in the preserve to challenge racers. Photo courtesy of Jana Butler

A notary to certify the marriage as well as a “It just seemed like the perfect fit,” tent for receptions will be available onsite. Goldsmith said about being a sponsor and participant. “Pay it forward, pay it back.”

All the proceeds will go to the Foundation, which benefits the hospital and the Participants are also encouraged to run Chamber of Commerce who has become in teams. The largest team registered will a partner in the event. Funds are used for receive preferred parking and a VIP tent to things such as life saving equipment and use at the event. community education programs.

Those interested can get involved by either “We are able to advance medical care that participating in the run or signing up is offered to the community, we are able to volunteer and help with registration, to upgrade physical areas, remodeling that parking cars and awarding medals. would help the hospital. The whole goal is to help the community,” said Butler.

To register and for more information visit rompintheswamp.org. Promotions and Education will also be part of Romp in the discounted offers will be posted on the Swamp. The Orthopedic Medical Group of Romp in the Swamp Facebook Page.

Tampa Bay, who is sponsoring the event, will be present to answer any questions To become a sponsor call Jana Butler at runners may have, especially those related 813-757-1277. to foot injuries.

Butler wants to thank all the sponsors, Excited to serve the community and meet partners and volunteers for all their time new people, Dr. Scott Goldsmith will also and energy in making the event possible be running the 5K course and the mile run and hopes this becomes an annual event. with his kids.

If enough interest is generated, the event could grow to include a 10K run.

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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FAM FEST ‘13

GREAT FUN FOR ALL AGES Article by Cheryl Johnston

The members of New Life Church are looking forward to meeting new friends at their first annual Fam Fest to be held October 5.

Photo courtesy of New Life Church

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eople get ready…the 1st Annual Fam “We are so excited to be bringing Fam Fest is less than a month away.

Fest’13 to Plant City,” said Pastor Fred Harrold. “We want our neighbors to know New Life Church is excited to host its first we love and care about them. I am looking community-wide event on October 5 at forward to meeting many new faces at our the John R. Trinkle Center on the HCC first community wide event.”

Campus off Park Road.

Advance tickets are available online for $4 The church’s Kidz Director, Michelle (ages 4-12) and $8 (ages 13-and up) until Dannison, admits, “We can’t wait to make October 2 (must present print confirmation new friends! Plant City is our community as proof of purchase at gate) or as follows and our family, and we love them. Fam Fest at the gate: is a day to come together and have fun. We Free admission for children 3-and-under will have something for everyone to enjoy.” $5 for children 4-12 $10 for ages 13-adult Executive Pastor Cliff Wiggs agrees. “Plant City has never had an event that focuses on New Life plans to continue hosting events family and just having fun. We decided to throughout the coming year, including a concentrate our efforts to the very heart of multimedia Christmas concert featuring Plant City: families. A day of games, shows, Rescued Heart. According to Pastor music and great food adds up to a festive Harrold, “The church is different from time for everyone.” many in Plant City because we purposely do interactive worship in a way to allow From the Water Zone for kids, to the Adult people to become participants rather than Only Zone and everything in between— merely spectators. We present the Gospel there will be bounce houses, a three-story in a three-screen multimedia presentation slide, a 70’ obstacle course, a boxing ring format. We have a Cross and Communion with huge inflatable gloves, a baseball station to allow personal worship, as the pitching booth, balloon animals, and live band ushers people into the presence of carnival-style games like ring toss and a go God. We find the use of videos, signing and fishing booth. Entertainment will include interpretive movement brings our worship a live magic show, the Rescued Heart experience to life.” and ICA bands and a live DJ, too. Food trucks and vendors will offer festival-style For details, visit www.newlifeplantcity.org food and tasty delights. Door prizes and a grand prize cruise for two will add to the excitement as well.

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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THE ULTIMATE ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE

THE HEART OF NASHVILLE LIVE

P

lant City area residents experienced a taste of “Music City” without leaving their hometown. On Friday, September 13, FOCUS Magazine kicked off The Heart of Nashville LIVE, a concert series featuring three of country music’s rising singer/songwriter sensations.

Article by Amanda Deck Tim McGraw, and Sugarland. Dreyer has also established herself by touring with some of country music’s biggest names— Eric Church, Luke Bryan, and Dierks Bentley, among others.

intimate night with a powerful performer.

For more information, contact FOCUS Magazine publisher Mike Floyd at 813707-8783 or visit The Heart of Nashville LIVE Facebook page. Admission to the Clemons Road after party, which will start at 10 p.m., is free for concert-goers and costs $10 for others.

Thursday night performances will also take place at The Winthrop Barn Theatre (11349 Bloomingdale Ave., Riverview) on October 10 ( Jaida Dreyer), and November 9 (Chad Warrix).

The series will conclude on Friday, November 8 with Chad Warrix, member of the Halfway to Hazard duo best known for their hit single, “Daisy.” Chad, along with Halfway to Hazard band mate David Tolliver, have worked closely with Tim McGraw, opening for his 2007 Soul2Soul tour and 2008 Live Your Voice tour and writing the track “Die by My Own Hand” featured on McGraw’s Emotional Traffic album. Although Warrix found success as a part of Halfway to Hazard, he is currently pursuing a solo career as a singer/ songwriter.

The first performance—hosted by Grammy award-winning producer and Clemons Road lead singer Cliff Brown at Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill—featured Jesse Keith Whitley, son of Lorrie Morgan and the late Keith Whitley and grandson of Grand Ole Opry legend George Morgan.

During the intimate show, Whitley shared many interesting stories with the small audience, ranging from his experiences growing up in the music industry to the hard work he has devoted to crafting his own distinctive style as a musician. Whitley also performed an acoustic set of his songs All performances will be held at Uncle before sharing the stage with Clemons Mike’s Smokehouse Grill located at 106 SR 60. Doors open each night at 6:30 p.m.

Road for a jam session “after party.” with dinner served at 7 p.m. and the show The Heart of Nashville LIVE will continue starting at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for each show on Friday, October 11 when American- are $300 for a table of eight and $40 for Canadian singer/songwriter Jaida Dreyer individuals. Price includes dinner and nontakes the stage. This up-and-coming artist alcoholic beverages. recently scored a publishing deal with Grammy award-winning producer Byron However, seating is extremely limited.

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SEPTEMBER 2013 focusplantcity.com

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n August 30, there was a mild commotion coming from the Florida State Fairgrounds.

Moving closer, you could hear shouts of excitement from the Future Farmers of America students of Plant City High, Strawberry Crest High, and Turkey Creek Middle school, just to name a few. Of the many schools there, in total over 725 FFA students came out to show their respective school’s agricultural pride and dedication.

This smashing concert was another piece of Dodge Ram’s “Year of the Farmer,” showing the big-name car company’s helping hand in the FFA community. Once the event began, the award-winning advertisement, “God Made a Farmer” was shown on a large projector to the eager audience. The 2-minute short-film set the mood for the remainder of the event, creating a certain zest in the building made up of agricultural liveliness.

introduction to the special guest of honor: country music sensation Easton Corbin.

Coming onto the stage, Easton gave a small motivating speech, encouraging the audience to stand up with him as he began his first song exclaiming, “Now let’s have a little fun!”

Roars of cheers were heard as Corbin would give one more solid live performance following the last. A sea of phones shot up, recording his performance while singing along simultaneously. Corbin frequently involved the crowd in his performance, thrusting the microphone toward the students to allow them to fill in the gaps of his popular songs.

Corbin was a member of the Future Farmers of America when he went to high school, as well. He grew up in Florida and graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in agribusiness, making his appearance both all the more relevant and The Dodge Ram Corporation has donated special at the same time. a upwards of one million dollars to the FFA community, and it’s only continuing Corbin is a firm believer in the power of to grow larger. The event was a part of the the FFA to grant long-lasting friendships second phase of the campaign after the and create a more balanced work ethic. He commercial’s debut during the 2012-2013 explained that he had no problems with Super Bowl advertisements. showing up to the event on behalf of the “Year of the Farmer” campaign, and he Shortly thereafter, FFA President Megan hopes that it helps the FFA community.

Stein took the stage to give a small

LOCAL

THE GOOD COOKIE 5K

what makes this run so noteworthy. The Good Cookie 5K, unlike some other area races, is centered on the goal to further pediatric cancer research in hopes of seeking a cure. Children who are and were experiencing this struggle will be present at Article by Charlotte Thompson the run in order to give voice to an often about Cookies for Kids’ Cancer while her neglected issue within our community. daughter was being treated at the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. There she Emily promises this run will be enjoyable met Gretchen, the woman responsible for for all ages. She said, “[People] can come founding the organization, and felt inspired out, have fun, and feel good about what to do more for the victims of childhood they’re doing because they’re helping kids who are fighting cancer.” cancer.

RUNNING FOR A CURE R

The Good Cookie 5K will be held throughout Plant City’s downtown historic district. Cost to register is $35. This event will be a chip-timed, and will also feature a bake sale, silent auction, bounce houses, and live music by Dock 7 during the race’s after party. There will also be three kids runs (ages 4-8) starting at 9:30 a.m.

Runners can register via http://beta.active. com/plant-city-fl/running/good-cookie5k-2013. For more information about Cookies for Kids Cancer, please visit www.cookiesforkidscancer.org. Come out and join our community’s fight against childhood cancer!

uns are currently quite the fad in Plant City. Some run for T-shirts, and others run for medals. Why not run for more than material things and help in the fight to defeat childhood cancer? The second annual Good Cookie 5K—to be held on Saturday, September 21 at 7:30 a.m. in downtown Plant City—is a wonderful way to raise money for a worthy cause while According to Emily, a run was a perfect event to spread awareness for pediatric having tremendous fun at the same time. cancer, and felt that “it would be a good fit” All proceeds will be donated to Cookies for our community due to the increasing for Kids’ Cancer, a nonprofit organization popularity of 5Ks. Emily also stressed dedicated to raising funds for pediatric how important raising funds for pediatric cancer research—the number one disease cancer is, stating that, shockingly, there is killer of children in the United States. In “a great lack of funding for pediatric cancer addition, Cookies for Kids’ Cancer provides research,” which is the main reason Cookies inspiration and support for individuals, for Kids’ Cancer was formed. businesses, and organizations to raise funds The many mothers who’ve partnered with by hosting local events.

Emily on this race event are also standing Emily Pierce, the local mother who by their children through their immense Emily Pierce (left) and Robyn Baker are both mothers fighting to end pediatric cancer.

Robyn will be performing at the event with her band Dock 7. has been organizing the 5K, found out struggle with pediatric cancer. And that’s Photo courtesy of Emily Pierce

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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51 YEARS OF CUSTOMER

SERVICE EXCELLENCE

COLEMAN DAVIS TRANSITIONS TO RETIREMENT

O

Article by Brian West

Davis and I spoke about how Plant City remained so successful throughout his ownership. Davis was quick to recognize that the Plant City location’s success is a direct reflection of his involvement here in town and the many relationships he’s developed over the years, something that just couldn’t be duplicated in other locations.

Davis began working with Badcock And if there’s one thing Davis knows, it’s in 1962 as an Auditor. In 1971, Davis customer service, and his customers would left the corporate world in Mulberry to surely agree. partner with Plant City store dealer Crea Beauchamp after more than a year talking Davis’ first job was at a drug store in town, about the possibility. Together, along with Plant Pharmacy, working as a soda jerk. the Plant City store, they operated five That was 1958. For younger readers, a stores in Tampa and purchased the Brandon soda jerk worked the soda fountain in store and developed it. Eventually, they drugstores back in the day. This was Davis’ sold the Tampa locations to other dealers first exposure to helping customers. Davis for the corporation. Later, Davis bought said, “I enjoyed the customers coming into Beachamp’s interest in the partnership the store with a need, and being able to in Plant City and Brandon, and then he meet that need.” Davis later worked at the opened the Seffner store. In the last several Badcock warehouse in Mulberry, eventually years, Davis has sold the Seffner, Brandon moving to the Audit department and helped and Zephyrhills locations, leaving only the facilitate the purchase and installation of Plant City location—the bread and butter their first computer in 1965. Looking for a new challenge, Davis approached Wogan of Coleman Davis Enterprises. n Saturday, September 14, Coleman Davis locked the doors of the Plant City Badcock as the owner for the last time. After 51 years with the Badcock organization, Davis has decided to retire and transition into the next season of his life.

Coleman Davis celebrated Badcock’s 80 year anniversary in Plant City in 2006, pictured here with Ebbie Sue Blackmer, heir of the Badcock company and daughter of Wogan S. Badcock, the founder. Photo by Brian West

Badcock, and was tasked with helping enjoyed working at the drugstore. So after Jim Myer, a new law school graduate, to 9 years at the corporate office, Davis left to become a dealer, and never looked back. establish their Legal department.

Davis said, “Crea and I talked for about a But it wasn’t long before Davis was looking year and a half about doing this, and Sue for his next challenge, and wanting to get (Davis’ wife) was scared to death. We were back to the interaction with customers he comfortable in the corporate setting and thought we knew what our future held.”

Davis said one of the things he’s enjoyed most during his career has been working with new dealers and new employees to help them develop. Davis said, “I’ve been fortunate enough to have an impact on several dealers that are working now and have been very successful. Mentoring is one of my great satisfactions.” Davis reminisced a little about the customers he’s developed relationships with over the years, and quickly recalled Mr. Benjamin Peek.

Davis said, “He lived in Dover. Never wore shoes. He would come into the store in overalls on the 3rd of every month and pay on his account. We loved that old man. He wouldn’t buy anything until he paid off that piece [of furniture].

Without a doubt, Davis, and the Badcock name, has been a staple of Plant City. The Plant City Badcock store will continue to serve the customers of Plant City and the surrounding areas, but we will surely miss Davis turning the key.

On September 14, Coleman Davis locked up Plant City’s Badcock building for the last time as owner. Photo by Brian West

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SEPTEMBER 2013 focusplantcity.com

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

35

LOCAL

PUT FAITH INTO ACTION AT PLANT CITY COMMUNITY MINISTRIES

ORGANIZATION SERVING HUNDREDS Article by Cheryl Johnston

At this time only about 20 committed churches help support PCCM with monthly donations of time, money, food, clothing and other items needed by clients seeking assistance. It’s a unified effort that accomplishes more positive life-changing results. But if more churches or local businesses got involved, more could be done.

PCCM clients receive help with job applications, form completion, budget preparation and are assisted frequently by someone trained to listen and offer help with resources. Photo by Cheryl Johnston

O

ur February issue introduced the new Plant City Community Ministries organization, established by Shiloh Baptist Association churches to assist those in need.

connect them with resources such as health care or legal assistance. This practical work also involves meeting weekly with clients until they get through their crises and are able to “Stand Alone.”

Since then, PCCM has served more than 330 families and become a Department of Children and Families approved Medicaid site. Services offered include emergency food, gently-used clothing, counseling, job application assistance, forms processing, budget planning, meal-planning classes, Spanish language lessons and Bible study.

Director Cheryl Hickman explained, “We invest in people face-to-face to meet the need and plan together for short-term and long-term solutions. People want to learn to improve their situations. Eventually, most desire to turnaround and help others.”

items and gasoline gift cards, which help people with fuel for job interviews and new job starts. Also helpful are good business clothing/shoes for the clothes closet and Bibles, Christian books/CDs/DVDs, and office supplies. Monetary contributions are always welcome. All donations are tax deductible.

To get involved, call 813-468-0133, visit FLPCCM.org and Facebook, or stop by 103 Johnson Road between 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday through Thursday.

Upcoming events for PCCM: Dr. Nancy Sylvia, Pediatrician, will soon teach “new moms” classes on Tuesday afternoons.

Some of the volunteering pastors credit 9-5-13 Weekly community Bible Study their PCCM advocate work for better begins Thursdays, 7PM at PCCM. equipping them to do more effective grace ministry in their own churches.

9-16-13 Free Spanish beginners language class, 6:30PM Mondays at PCCM Dr. Dan Morris, Sr., Director of Missions ( Johnson Road Community Center); also for the Shiloh Baptist Association, has been Plant City’s First Baptist Church, 5:30PM. pleased with the progress, but the needs Instructor: John Foxx are always ongoing, such as food supply.

Both Morris and Hickman are available to 9-28-13 CareFest®: Please help Somebody explain the ministry to church groups or Cares Tampa Bay, PCCM and area other organizations. volunteers donate four hours repairing local homes for those in need.

Generous individuals, businesses and churches can help immediately by donating 12-17-13 “Old Fashioned Family Night” time or resources. Needed most are Christmas party (for all 2013 clientele) volunteers, money, non-perishable food

Oddy, a retired nurse who has “cared for people all my life” enjoys “knowing we Area pastors of various denominations have changed some people’s lives. We see a who daily have people knocking on their difference in their whole attitude and they church doors for help with such crises express such appreciation.” as hunger, joblessness, marital problems, family issues, disabilities, homelessness, and Copeland agrees. “It’s gratifying to help and addictions are thrilled with the assistance. love one another as God asks. I love helping With limited resources, most congregations people if I have the means to do so. So many can’t effectively address the problems and are hurting. It’s great to see them get jobs offer life-altering solutions. But together, and to help with the application process.” through their support of PCCM, they are able to direct those in need to an Both women consider the greatest need of organization that can. the ministry to be more participation from more churches. Presently most volunteers Volunteer advocates like Crystal Copeland are from First Baptist Dover and Cedar The PCCM food pantry is always in need of donations and non-perishable food and Faye Oddy are trained to discover the Grove Baptist. items. Photo by Cheryl Johnston true needs of folks seeking help and to

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

37

DID YOU KNOW

THE MAN KNOWN AS

“COCA COLA JIM”

JAMES WILLIAM HENDERSON Article by Plant City Photo Archives & History Center

Mr. James William Henderson established Plant City’s independent bottling company. Photo courtesy of the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center

I

t was Mr. James William Henderson who established Plant City’s independent bottling company.

Henderson, a business and civic leader in Plant City from 1914 until his death in 1948, was a native of Maysville, Georgia.

Born January 12, 1872, a son of Andrew Walter and Pelona Ann Lipscomb, he was one of eight brothers who came to Tampa in the late 1890s and entered into the business world of the community. He was in his mid-20s.

Henderson operated a harness and wagon business in Tampa until the automobile became popular and his business began declining. Following that, through his eldest brother, Thomas, Henderson became interested in the new and popular soft drink of the time and acquired the franchise to bottle and sell Coca-Cola in Plant City. He moved to Plant City in 1914 to establish the infant business and operated it until two years before his death.

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Coca-Cola had been first created in about 1886 and was a fountain drink, first appearing at Jacob’s Pharmacy in Atlanta, Georgia. It was not bottled until 1894 and the future of bottling was still not appreciated. In 1900, there were only two bottlers of Coca-Cola in the country. In 1920, as a result of the use of franchising, one bottling works per town or city, the number climbed to about 1,000. Henderson’s was one of those.

during the early years, and he could be seen making deliveries in a wagon being drawn by a white mule. He became “Coca-Cola Jim” to many of his regular customers.

With gathering success, he later was able to invest in a delivery truck and take on several helpers.

Henderson was a businessman who gave a great deal to his community. He became the chairman of the local chapter of the American Red Cross during World War I and continued throughout the years of World War II. As a reward for his service Henderson was presented with a certificate of appreciation signed by President Truman.

the DAR, the Woman’s Club, the Women’s Christian Temperance Union, and was active with the First Methodist Church.

After her death 1938, Jim Henderson began the construction of a new building at the corner of East Baker Street and Pennsylvania Street, which became the new and larger Coca-Cola Bottling Works in 1939. It’s a building that once was much admired by Plant City’s residents.

They would slow their vehicles along the Baker Street route as they approached the Coca-Cola building to stare up at the enormous Coca-Cola bottle on display there. It hung and tilted at a forward slant on display from the building’s upper front structure. Residents recall that it must have been about six to eight feet long and approximately two to three feet in diameter.

They would watch through the large picture window as the countless Coca-Cola bottles moved along the assembly line on their way to their cases and cartons. The assembly line had been carefully erected there for public view.

He was an organizer and charter member of the Plant City Kiwanis Club in 1921 and remained active for many years. He received the Kiwanis Legion of Honor certificate in 1947. Henderson was also a member of the board of directors of the first Strawberry Festival held in 1930, and the chairman of its finance committee. Beginning in 1931, and for several years after, Henderson was the general manager of the Plant City Strawberry Festival.

Working into his 70s, Henderson decided to sell the business and property to his Henderson has been called one of Plant nephew. In 1948, Frank Henderson took City’s most public-spirited citizens. A over the company and ran it until the proponent of education, he was a silent corporate Coca-Cola Company decided to benefactor to many causes, especially buy back all of its franchise bottling works. providing educational opportunities to That was in the early 1960s. “Coca-Cola those unable to afford them. He was Jim” Henderson, businessman and civic very active with his church and served as leader, died in 1948. chairman of the board of stewards of the First Methodist Church from 1935 until Sources: Plant City Photo Archives and History his death in 1948.

Center; Quintilla Geer Bruton and David E. Bailey, Jr., Plant City; Its Origin and History, Minnie Perrin Henderson was also active 1985; Coca-Cola Corporation; Ancestry.com; in public service and was a member of the East Hillsborough Historical Society, Images board of directors of the Children’s Home of America; Plant City, 2005. of Tampa. In Plant City she belonged to

After relocating to Tampa in the late 1890s, Jim Henderson met Minnie Adelle Perrin, a native of Nashville, Tennessee, who had moved to Tampa to teach in the Wolf Mission in Ybor City. They were married in 1900 and lived and worked in Tampa.

After acquiring his franchise and moving to Plant City in 1914, Henderson set up his new bottling business in a brick building at the NW corner of Evers Street and W. Coca-Cola Bottling Works at Evers and Haines, circa 1930.

Haines Street. He was a one-man operation Photo courtesy of the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center

(Formally Known as Plant City Cancer Treatment Center)

CHAMBER COLUMN

GREATER PLANT CITY

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Submitted by Brian West

Randy V. Heysek, MD FACRO

Kathryn L. Kepes, MD FACRO

Achieving Results through Innovative Technology.

If you are considering surgery for cancer treatment, there may be a conservative therapy alternative available right here in Plant City. Call for more details!

The Strawberry Classic Car Show will be held on Saturday, September 21 from 4 to 8 p.m. in Historic Downtown Plant City. The car show features cars that are at least 25 years old, with many classics on hand from the 40s, 50s and 60s. This is a great family event if you’re looking for a relaxing evening. Several of the downtown merchants are open longer hours to accommodate the crowds. You’ll probably run into many of your friends and neighbors. There are several food vendors, and the atmosphere is great.

The new Chamber members this month include: • Oh My! Consignment held their ribbon cutting on August 20 at 11 a.m. at 111 S. Collins St. • Paychex held their ribbon cutting on August 26 at 11 a.m. at 106 S. Evers St. • OnPoint IT Solutions held their ribbon cutting on September 5 at 11 a.m. at 106 S. Evers St. • Ladybug New 2 You Consignment will hold their ribbon cutting on September 17 at 11 a.m. at 116 W. Reynolds St. • Riter E Sigs will hold their ribbon cutting on September 24 at 11 a.m. at 106 S. Evers St. Keep an eye on the Chamber calendar for new business ribbon cuttings at plantcity. org. Then, make time to come join everyone to learn a little about each business, wish everyone luck, and participate in the ribbon cutting photo.

Each month, the Chamber holds a Contact Breakfast. You must RSVP to the Chamber no later than the Friday before the breakfast to allow the caterer to properly plan for the event. If you want to attend, and are unable to RSVP by Friday, you can call the Chamber and be placed on a waiting list, but there are no guarantees. If you have any questions, please feel free to call the Chamber at 813-754-3707.

The Chamber has partnered with Keel & Curley Winery for this year’s Blueberry Stomp. The event will be held at the winery, located at 5202 Thonotosassa Rd, on Saturday, September 28 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you are interested in participating in the event, it’s not too late to register. Visit the website at blueberrystomp.com. Then come out and join in the fun!

The Bike Show will be held on Saturday, October 5 in Historic Downtown Plant City from 5 to 9 p.m. The show features hundreds of bikes from all over, with everyone riding in for a relaxing afternoon in downtown. For the enthusiast, there are bikes of all styles, makes, models, and both new and old. The show is always a little different, but there are often antique bikes where owners have spent countless hours restoring them to their former glory. And like the car show, many of the downtown merchants are open longer hours to accommodate the crowds.

813-719-7705

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

39

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PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

RIBBON CUTTINGS

“Farm Credit gives us one-stop shopping for our farm, residence and vacation home.”

Oh My! Consignment and Boutique

Owners Susan Rafalco and Nancy Coggin celebrated the grand reopening of Oh My! Consignment and Boutique--now at its new location-with a ribbon cutting on Tuesday, August 20. The shop features chic, upscale women’s clothing, purses, jewelry, and other accessories as well as a wide variety of home decor and designer items at awesome prices.

Discover more about what Oh My! Consignment and Boutique has to offer by stopping by the store at 111 S. Collins Street in Plant City, calling 813-704-4899, or visiting ohmyconsignment.com.

Justin, Jenny and Tres McQuaig. Standing; Farm Credit of Central Florida Residential Mortgage Manager, Vonda Fulwood.

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OnPoint IT Solutions

OnPoint IT Solutions held a ribbon cutting at the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce on September 5. an IT Consulting and Computer Repair company, owner Alice Bullard offers clients superior customer service, reliability, afforable pricing, and overall service you can count on. OnPoint’s solutions help individuals and businesses maintain productivity and efficiency. For more information on the services they provide, call 813-986-2172.

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Loans for land, homes & country living FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

41

PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL

RAIDERS Head Coach Wayne Ward (4th season) Principal Colleen Richardson Raider Stadium 1 Raider Pl, Plant City, FL 33563 Following identical 7-3 seasons with one playoff appearance, last year’s 4-6 mark was a little disappointing considering the talent the Raiders possessed. The Raiders started the year with a tough loss to Strawberry Crest in which the Raiders out gained the Chargers but scored only once before falling 22-7. The Raiders then reeled off three straight wins, including a come-from-behind win against powerhouse Alonso. But after that, Plant City seemed to lose momentum and dropped the final five out of six games.

This year’s edition, however, is older (18 seniors) and more experienced (24 returnees) and they’re also confident. In fact, many feel that the Raiders are the favorites to claim their first district title since 2006.

Raiders’ Head Coach Wayne Ward, in his fourth season at his alma mater, has a stable full of talent that should return the Raiders to their winning ways that Ward grew accustomed to his first two seasons. The former Virginia Tech running back recently named last year’s wide receiver/tight end, Landon Galloway as the team’s starting quarterback.

In a new spread offense instituted under offensive coordinator Charles Lindsey, Galloway (6’3” 200 lbs.) threw for over 250 yards in the Raiders’ preseason game against a powerful Jefferson squad. Despite reports that the UCF commit will likely be a receiver at the next level, don’t be surprised by the end of the season if Galloway’s continued success attracts some colleges looking for a quarterback.

The Raiders also have two seniors who have garnered national attention. Montel McBride, a 6’4” 330 lb. offensive guard is the #2 rated guard in Florida and the #16 rated guard in the nation, according to Scout.com. Joining McBride in the spotlight is Sedrick King (6’4” 220 lbs.) who is the #10 rated defensive end in the state and is #86 in the nation. McBride has committed to two-time defending national champion Alabama and King will join Galloway at UCF. In the backfield, the Raiders have Ervin Michael, who rushed for an average of 107 yards per game in only four games as a freshman, and converted defensive back Hassan Bailey who impressed his coaches in the spring game with a strong showing.

Bailey will likely play both ways.

Other impact players include offensive lineman Lance Doenges (6’ 250 lbs.) who advanced to last year’s state wrestling finals in the heavyweight division, and John Broome (6’2” 235 lbs.) who will anchor the other side of the defensive line opposite King.

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Two more outstanding defenders are Jyquis Thomas at defensive back, and Sawyer Dawson who will play in the defensive backfield and as linebacker, and will likely get time on offense also as a wide receiver. Thomas is quick, an excellent tackler and has the ability to be disruptive to opponents with his fearless play. Dawson, has a nose for the football and tends to make big plays.

PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL RAIDERS FOOTBALL ROSTER 2013-14 # 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 13 15 16 20 21 22 24 25 28 29 30 32 34 36 37 38 40 42 44

Name Landon Galloway Tavares Chase Markese Hargrove Hassan Bailey Broome John Sedrick King Quinn St.John Stephen Falknstein Rayquan Johnson Peyton Collins Kwest Fluitt Cory Cotnoir Mario Bancroft Jyquis Thomas Jared Braner Sawyer Dawson Ervin Micheal Reaquavious Young Sterling Day Rashad Abduallah Roderick Burney Javaris Whitsett Tydre Ward Christan Hoyle Antonie Thompson Jacob Castillo Guillermo Alvarez Austin Fernandez Hunter Snuff

Position QB WR, DB, KR WR, DB, KR RB, DB, KR DE DE WR WR QB DB DB QB WR DB DB, LS DB, WR RB CB RB DB WR DB, WR DB K, P WR DB LB ILB, RB, LS WR

Gr. Sr. So. So. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. So. Jr. So. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. So. Jr. So. Jr. Jr. Jr. Fr. Sr. Fr. So. So. Sr. Sr.

Ht 6-2 6-2 5-7 5-10 6-2 6-4 5-10 6-0 5-10 5-10 5-11 5-10 5-10 6-1 5-7 6-0 5-6 5-8 5-10 5-8 5-6 6-0 5-5 5-10 6-0 5-8 5-8 5-8 5-11

Wt 195 167 150 190 226 219 184 148 176 139 145 157 140 184 127 185 170 152 180 135 142 158 140 165 141 138 154 201 180

# 45 46 48 50 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 60 64 65 66 68 69 70 72 75 76 77 78 80 81 83 86 90 99

Name Patrick Colleran Steven Hunt Dylan Johnson Tucker Matthew Jaquasious Dasher Quincy Robinson Lance Doenges Cody Graves Alibel Fragoso Alex Ramirez Noah Clark Jordan Buck Todd Miller Russel Kemp Jordan Shears Evan Crowell Montel McBride Luke Emery Ken Kahari Green Jordan Latimore Burlingame Jeriah Hart Dustyn Eddie Tanner Jorge Navarrete Chaunthon Phonsana Jacob Studstill Dalton Lefebvre Bomani Denson James Alexander

Position LB ILB ILB, LS DL LB OT OL DL OL LB DL OL DL OL OL OL OL, DT OL, LS OL DL OL DL OL WR, K, P WR WR WR DL DL

Gr. Jr. So. Sr. Jr. So. Sr. Sr. So. Jr. Fr. So. Sr. Jr. Jr. Fr. Jr. Sr. Jr. So. So. Sr. Jr. So. Jr. So. Sr. Fr. Jr. So.

Ht 6-1 5-6 5-10 5-11 5-6 6-5 6-0 5-11 6-0 5-9 5-10 6-0 6-0 5-10 5-8 6-2 6-4 6-0 6-0 5-7 6-1 6-1 5-9 5-9 5-11 6-0 5-11 6-1 6-0

Wt 182 162 196 204 169 245 252 191 262 177 169 179 172 194 200 272 325 192 262 210 241 205 273 188 147 162 158 175 311

FOOTBALL SCHEDULE All Games are at 7:30 pm Aug 30, 2013 | Away Steinbrenner High School Sept. 6, 2013 | Home Wharton High School Sept. 20, 2013 | Home Durant High School Sept. 27, 2013 | Away Bloomingdale High School Oct. 4, 2013 | Away East Bay High School Oct. 11, 2013 | Home Tampa Bay Tech High School Oct.18, 2013 | Away Spoto High School Oct. 25, 2013 | Home Strawberry Crest High School

RAIDERS Nov. 1, 2013 | Away Brandon High School Nov. 8, 2013 | Home Gaither High School

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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DURANT HIGH SCHOOL

COUGARS Head Coach Mike Gottman (11th Season) Principal Pamela Bowden Durant High School Stadium at the Ron Frost Athletic Complex 4748 Cougar Path, Plant City, FL 33567

For Mike Gottman, who is in his 19th season of coaching in Hillsborough County and his 11th as the head coach at Durant, preparing to exceed last season’s success presents a challenge for this year’s inexperienced squad. Durant completed it’s most successful season in school history going undefeated during the regular season and then losing to rival Newsome in the regional semifinal game ending with an 11-1 record and placing ten players on the All-Conference team as well as earning Gottman, Coach of the Year honors.

One of the challenges that Gottman faces this year is replacing the vacancy left by the graduation of Jamarlon Hamilton who accounted for 1,340 yards of Durant’s offense on the ground. The key in compensating for Hamilton’s absence rests with the offensive line that boasts three seniors with size.

Cody Martin (6’4” 260 lbs), Nick Insley (6’4” 240 lbs.) and Chris Powell (6’2” 300 lbs.) should be able to open up plenty of holes for last season’s second leading rusher Chris Atkins, who totaled 821 yards with 10 TDs and Newsome transfer John Hendrix who gained nearly 800 yards and four touchdowns last year as a junior.

In a primarily run-first offense, the Cougars playcaller, Trey VanDeGrift, proved last season that he could manage a productive offense with few mistakes.

VanDeGrift did not give up a single fumble all season and had only five interceptions in 122 pass attempts. VanDeGrift totaled over 1,000 yards in the air in an offense that outscored their opponents 406 to 106. The Cougars’ receiving corps poses some questions due to the fact that, other than tight end Paxton Sims, no rostered Cougar player has ever been on the receiving end of one of VanDeGrift’s passes. Sims, who picked up All-Conference honors last year with 24 receptions for 327 yards and four touchdowns, will be counted on to set the example.

On defense, Durant is led by Dontriel Perry, a 6’4” 210 lb. defensive end, who wreaked havoc in the backfield of the Cougars’ opponents last season. Perry recorded 53 tackles, 15 tackles for losses, with 7 sacks, 3 caused fumbles, 5 recovered fumbles, and scored 2 safeties. Need we say more?

Starting the season with only 34 rostered varsity players and not as much depth as last year’s squad, the Cougars still have a load of talent. All in all, the Cougars should be a contender for the 7A District 8 title that includes, for the first time, all three Plant City area teams.

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DURANT HIGH SCHOOL COUGARS FOOTBALL SCHEDULE FOOTBALL ROSTER 2013-14 All Games are at 7:30 pm

# 1 4 7 9 11 12 14 17 19 23 24 26 27 28 33 35 40

Name Derek Wells Kadarius Griffin Demetrius Brown Chris Shaw Paxton Sims Trey VanDeGrift Norman Carter Evan Moody Brandon Loudermilk Zach Guido John Hendricks, Jr Brody Gonzalez Gabe Brown Chris Atkins Alex Sceeh Dontriel Perry D.J Curry

Position K FB OLB CB TE, FS QB QB DT DB DB HB, LB, ATH DB CB RB LB, DL DE DT

Gr. Ht Wt Jr. Jr. 5-11 180 Sr. 6-1 190 Jr. 6-1 185 Sr. 6-2 185 Sr. 6-0 195 Jr. 5-10 165 Sr. 6-1 180 Jr. 6-2 185 Sr. 5-10 150 Sr. 6-1 215 Sr. 5-10 160 Sr. 5-11 175 Jr. 5-8 175 Sr. 5-11 195 Sr. 6-4 210 Jr. 5-10 200

# 49 50 54 55 56 59 62 68 70 71 72 74 76 78 80 82 89

Name Luccas Hanna Mason Bridges Cody Gregory Colin Kiehlmeier Justin Shilato Cody Martin Klayton Smith Nicholas Insley Caleb Gude Jacob Thornton Matt Carrol Chris Powell Tyler Flack Brett Coleman Joe Williamson Anthony Celadon Garrett Rentz

Position DE LB, LS LB DT DL OL OL OL OL OL DL OL, DL OL OL, C TE, WR K, P WR, LS

Gr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr.

Ht 6-1 6-0 6-0 6-1 6-0 6-4 6-1 6-4 6-0 5-9 6-0 6-2 6-1 6-0 6-3 5-6 6-4

Wt 190 155 185 220 205 260 260 240 250 200 215 300 250 250 193 135 170

Aug. 30, 2013 | Home Armwood High School Sept. 6, 2013 | Away Sickles High School Sept. 12, 2013 | Home Tampa Bay Tech. High School Sept. 20, 2013 | Away Plant City High School Sept. 27, 2013 | Home Gaither High School Oct. 4, 2013 | Home Strawberry Crest High School Oct. 11, 2013 | Away Newsome High School Oct. 18, 2013 | Home Brandon High School

COUGARS Oct. 25, 2013 | Away Hillsborough High School Nov. 1, 2013 | Away East Bay High School

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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STRAWBERRY CREST HIGH SCHOOL

CHARGERS Head Coach John Kelly (2nd season) Principal David R. Brown Charger Stadium 4691 Gallagher Road, Dover, FL 33527 For Strawberry Crest’s seniors, this will be the first season that they have had the same head coach at the start of the season that they had when the previous season ended. John Kelly, the third coach of the Chargers in the past four years will be entering his second season with a wealth of experience on the field (24 seniors), depth, and more talent than the team has had in their short history. The fifth-year school has taken their lumps over the past four years trying to establish themselves in an area that is rich in football talent. The student population has increased each season, and the Chargers with nearly 2,000 students jumped this year to a 7A classification putting them in the same district with Durant and Plant City, which makes for a great rivalry.

John Kelly, in his second year at the helm, is coming off a 4-6 record that saw a signature win over Plant City in last season’s opening game in which quarterback Tristan Hyde threw for 223 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions. That win began a season that saw the Chargers in every game with three of their losses decided by seven points or less.

Hyde, who is a junior this season, threw for 2,112 yards, 20 touchdowns and only 12 interceptions last season as a sophomore, and directed an offense that averaged 329 yards per game.

“We’re looking for great things from Tristan, who is one of our captains,” said Kelly. “He’s has a good arm, he’s intelligent and he should have another good season.”

Kelly has devised a pass-first offense with multiple schemes and a defense that is primarily 3-4 but will switch to 4-3 depending on the situation and personnel. He plans to have a more balanced attack this year with running back Chris Perez getting the majority of carries. Perez, compact and muscular at 5’9” and nearly 200 lbs, led last year’s squad in rushing with 649 yards while averaging nearly five yards per carry.

Other key pieces on offense are 6’3” 275 lb. senior tackle Cody Nulph and senior receiver Josh Hyde (Tristan’s brother) and junior Austin Carswell, who can also serve as back-up quarterback. Carswell’s older brother Alex is one of the many two-way players on the Chargers’ squad. According to Kelly, Alex will see the majority of his playing time at cornerback, but the talented 6’4” 210 lb. senior, who is getting attention from several colleges, will also see his share of time at wide receiver or tight end. Last season, Carswell grabbed 22 passes for 372 yards and 5 TDs. Zach Weber (6’2” 240 lbs.) will anchor the defensive line and the Chargers will look to senior Brendon Headley and senior transfer Matt Chaney, hoping to compensate for talent lost to graduation last year. Kelly feels that the strength of his defense, however, may be found in the backfield with returnees Josh Engram, Isaiah Smallwood, and Cedric Bellard.

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STRAWBERRY CREST HIGH SCHOOL CHARGERS FOOTBALL ROSTER 2013-14 # 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 22 23 24 25 28 30 31 32

Name Joshua Engram (C) Josh Hyde (C) DJ Trigg Micah Webb Austin Carswell Farron Rainford Clay Cullins Ty Coufal Alex Carswell James Everrett John Boscia Tristan Hyde (C) Zack Hamel Brendon Headley Devin Cardell Michael Tolliver Isaiah Smallwood Matt Chaney Jordan Smith Devonte Lowe Chris Perez Theo Williams Cedric Bellard Arthur Shepherd Darius Williams

Position DB WR, DB WR DB DB, WR, QB TE, HB WR DB DE, TE, WR WR, RB K, P QB K, P LB LB TE, HB DB LB, DE WR, DB DB RB RB DB DB RB

Gr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. So. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Fr. Sr. Fr. Sr. So. Jr.

Ht 5-9 5-11 6-2 5-9 6-1 6-1 5-11 5-10 6-4 5-5 5-10 5-11 5-10 6-1 6-1 5-10 6-2 5-10 5-11 5-11 5-9 5-4 5-7 5-7 5-9

Wt 178 170 166 170 170 195 175 160 210 153 155 175 150 205 155 180 185 170 160 148 195 135 155 155 165

# 33 36 40 44 45 48 50 52 55 56 61 64 65 66 68 70 72 73 75 78 79 80 81 83 99

Name Darius Sails Stanley Baptiste Arjay Smith Cesar Abadia Devonne Wilcox Dennis Mitchell Jherri Green Corneilius Neal Nico Cordero Danny Lamb Michael Gleason Julien Aponte Tristan Simmons Tim Hartwick David Cox Logan Bennett Emory Williams Cody McDaniel Caleb Gregory Cody Nulph (C) Donovan Todd Tristan Samuels AJ Rahming Cameron Lehtola Zachary Weber (C)

Position DB RB RB LB DL, LB DL, LB OL, DL OL, TE OL DL, LB OL DL OL OL OL OL OL, DL OL OL OL DL WR WR K DL

Gr. Fr. So. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. So. Sr. Sr. Jr. So. Sr. So. Sr. So. Sr. So. Jr. So. Sr. Sr. Fr. So. So. Sr.

Ht 5-5 5-6 5-10 5-10 6-1 6-1 5-11 6-2 5-11 6-0 5-11 5-9 6-2 6-1 6-1 6-1 6-2 6-6 6-4 6-3 6-1 5-7 5-11 5-10 6-2

Wt 130 145 175 175 200 190 231 203 200 165 200 200 215 190 210 245 225 235 230 275 200 132 155 150 240

FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

All Games are at 7:30 pm, except Sept 13.

Aug. 30, 2013 | Away Bloomingdale High School Sept. 6, 2013 | Home Spoto High School Sept. 13, 2013 | Away | 7:00 pm Tallahassee Leon High School Sept. 20, 2013 | Home Brandon High School Sept. 27, 2013 | Home Freedom High School Oct. 4, 2013 | Away Durant High School Oct. 11, 2013 | Home Riverview High School Oct. 18, 2013 | Home East Bay High School

CHARGERS Oct. 25, 2013 | Away Plant City High School

Nov. 8, 2013 | Away Armwood High School

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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and Kid’s Run T-Shirts

Music

Medals

Food

Fun

OCTOBER 12, 2013 • PLANT CITY, FL

Register Now:

www.rompintheswamp.org Lower Green Swamp Preserve Benefitting Like us 48

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Independent Retirement Living ...and so Much More

Hunter’s Creek Retirement Community A Brand New Leasing Community!

New Villa’s Ready for Move In!

62+ Active Independent Living Community • Retirement Living at its Finest

A Leasing Community • 2 and 3 Bedroom Villas • Gated Entry • Fitness Center • Swimming Pool • Spacious Master Suites • Single Car Garage • Covered Courtyard Area • Pets Welcome

Model Home Hours

Monday – Friday 10am – 5pm Saturday by Appointment

• Zero Entry Shower, Equipped with Handrails • Roomy Walk-In Closets • Full Appliance Package, Including Washer and Dryer • Wheelchair Accessible • Assisted Living Facility Coming Soon 784 Hunter Creek Drive Plant City, Fl 33563 www.gracemanorhunterscreek.com

813.752.9300

From I-4 and Alexander St. Exit 21 Alexander St. South Turn left onto W. Grant St. W. Grand St. go 1/2 mile turn right on Hunter St. Community on left.

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BUSINESS FOCUS

A&W Cabinets and Remodeling, Inc. Your Total Remodeling Center

A&W CABINETS AND REMODELING, INC. 717 N. FLORIDA AVE. LAKELAND, FLORIDA 33801 PHONE: 863-688-6999

Capital, Wellborn Forest Cabinetry, and Meredith continued, “We stand behind Georgia Hardwood Doors. The choices our products and we stand behind our are endless with Allen and Wayne. work.”

A&W Cabinets and Remodeling also offers countertops, and hope to incorporate flooring into their business soon. They also plan to expand the showroom, to help customers really get a vision of their next home improvement project.

“We want to be your first call,” said Meredith. “We’ll take care of all your needs.”

If you’re looking for hard working craftsmen who get the job done right in a fair and honest manner, look no further than Allen Inlow and Wayne Meredith at A&W Cabinets and Remodeling.

With their combined years of experience, they’ll be sure to provide you with your dream kitchen or bathroom in no time.

A&W Cabinets and Remodeling is owned and operated by Allen Inlow and Wayne Meredith.

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ince 1994, Plant City residents have been bringing their troublesome vehicles to Allen Inlow at Super Service Tire and Auto. Customers trust his honest and fair style of business as well as his high quality work. He refuses to run a shop that’s dishonest or takes advantage of someone in need.

Inlow is bringing those same principles to his newest business venture. On June 1, Inlow partnered with longtime friend of over 35 years, Wayne Meredith, to form A&W Cabinets and Remodeling.

the former business, which goes along perfectly with our remodeling services,” said Inlow.

Meredith has been remodeling homes independently for over 25 years, so he— like Inlow—brings an immense amount of experience to the table. As a result, with only four months of service under their belts as A&W Cabinets and Remodeling, customers are already accepting them as a trusted business. In fact, former Cabinets for Less clients have turned to Meredith and Inlow for their remodeling needs.

“This was just an opportunity for me to Unlike the big box hardware stores, get back into what I really like to do— A&W Cabinets and Remodeling is a one-stop shop, offering not only cabinet building and remodeling,” said Inlow. and countertop sales for kitchen and bath According to Inlow, he had been in the improvement projects, but they also offer business of building homes 20 years ago, competitive pricing on installation and but stopped to run Super Service Tire anything else related to the job. and Auto full time. However, he has been remodeling rental units in his spare time There business is growing due to word of mouth and the duo has installed cabinetry ever since. in Bartow, Auburndale, Lakeland, Polk Although both craftsmen are from the City, “everywhere across Polk County,” Plant City area and have been for many said Inlow. years (Inlow was born and raised there), their showroom is conveniently located “We’ve even done business in Riverview, on North Florida Avenue, right outside Largo, Tampa, and as far as Daytona downtown Lakeland off Memorial Beach,” said Meredith. “We’re here to Boulevard and U.S. Highway 92, and just serve all of Central Florida.” a few miles from exit 28 off Interstate 4.

Their business has taken the place of the Along with being honest with customers former kitchen cabinetry outlet, Cabinets and providing efficient service, A&W Cabinets and Remodeling only offers the for Less. finest products—100 percent hardwood “It was a great opportunity for us because cabinets from trusted brand names like JSI we were able to gain the assets from Cabinetry, C&S Cabinetry, Americana FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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BUSINESS FOCUS

Courtney Paat – State Farm Insurance

Your “Good Neighbor” in Plant City and Lakeland

Courtney Paat heads two State Farm area offices, one in Plant City and one in North Lakeland.

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In fact, Courtney’s office has grown so much that she was chosen to expand her operations to North Lakeland earlier this year. A State Farm agent leading two offices is very rare, and Courtney had to apply and interview for the opportunity.

The opening of the second location is one of the things Courtney is most proud of regarding her career, but she remarked Since entering the industry after that it wouldn’t have been possible graduating from Florida State in 1991, without her dedicated and highly trained insurance agent Courtney Paat has been team. associated with State Farm. And she “My team is everything,” said Courtney. wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I would not be where I am today without “We’ve found that during times of the team. They’re the ones that make it uncertainty, whether the economy is happen on a daily basis. Their commitment down or people are just unsure about to our clients and to our agency’s success the direction of their future, they’ll tend has gotten us where we are.” to gravitate toward trusted brands,” said Courtney. “We’ve been in business in A few years ago, Courtney’s agency was Plant City for over 14 years, and we’ve recognized as being in the top three never had a bad year. Even with all the percent of State Farm agents nationwide. ups and downs in the industry, our agency She believes this success was due to her team’s ability to build meaningful has always grown.” n 1922, State Farm Insurance founder G.J. Mecherle stated, “Honesty isn’t the best policy—it’s the only policy,” and it’s that high standard of integrity that allows State Farm to continually be the number one insurance company in the United States, serving the nation for over 90 years.

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COURTNEY PAAT INSURANCE AGENCY, INC. 1805 JAMES L. REDMAN PARKWAY, STE. 101 PLANT CITY, FLORIDA 33563 PHONE: 813-754-1725 5228 US HIGHWAY 98N LAKELAND, FLORIDA 33809 PHONE: 863-858-4878 WEB: PAATINSURANCE.COM

Courtney’s Plant City team: Front (L-R) Lilly Martinez, Krystal Eddings, Courtney Paat, Mandi Carranza, Viviana Espinoza, and Tina Lopez Back (L-R) Joshua Jarvis, Amanda Swindle, Nancy Medina, Alex Renteria, and Ryan Wynn.

relationships with clients and have an “We’re working on taking our agency to the next level,” said Courtney. “The second impact on their lives. location is really pushing us to streamline After receiving her degree in Risk our operations. We’re working with a lot Management and Insurance, Courtney more clients now, so it’s pushing us in worked for State Farm’s corporate office. the direction to put even better systems But it was her desire to directly impact in place so we can serve our clients more the community that led her to forming effectively.” her own agency—and ultimately its In addition, she will remain committed success. to ensuring her team—which boasts over Courtney states, “Our agency’s vision 100 years of combined experience in the focuses on developing relationships with insurance industry—continues to receive our clients so we can help them uncover the education they need to do the job what their actual needs are and then make well. appropriate product recommendations.”

American Business Woman’s Association (ABWA), an active member of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, and a strong financial supporter of local schools. In fact, Courtney has sponsored DUI education and prevention classes taught in Driver’s Education courses at Plant City, Durant, and Strawberry Crest High Schools. More recently, Courtney held a school supply drive at her Plant City office, collecting backpacks, pencils, paper, crayons, and more to be donated to children in need through United Food Bank efforts.

“We spend a tremendous amount of time coaching our team to make sure our clients are getting the best possible advice and service from our agency.” said Courtney. “I’m proud that I’ve been able to provide for my team members, for them to have professional careers, enjoy what they do, gain satisfaction from their work, and in turn, provide for their own Courtney’s mission is to help people families.” manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their Apart from serving her clients and her dreams. If you need insurance or advice team through the workplace, Courtney is concerning financial decisions, contact committed to making Plant City a better Courtney Paat and her team today. place. She’s been a board member of the

Through the Courtney Paat agency, clients have access to over 100 different products and services offered by State Farm. All come with the personal, caring touch of a professional local agent.

Courtney is a strong supporter of Plant City/Lakeland’s growing Hispanic community and offers resources and information regarding college scholarships, money management, immigration issues, and voter registration for Hispanic clients. Many team members are also fluent in Spanish.

Courtney’s agency may have seen substantial growth over the past year by opening the new Lakeland office, but that doesn’t mean she’s going to start slowing down any time soon. The wife (husband of 17 years, Angel) and mother of two daughters (Kalei, 11 and Melia, 7), still has goals in mind for her agency.

Courtney Paat (far left) and her North Lakeland team: Veronica Rodriguez, Casey Fleming, and Darryl Medley FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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BUSINESS FOCUS

The Crossing Church

Transforming Lives Through Jesus Christ

The Crossing Church also has a SouthShore Campus located in Ruskin, allowing them to reach an even greater number of people.

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undreds of churches representing a countless number of denominations line the streets of Hillsborough County. Some are small, tight-knit communities while some host thousands of people from all walks of life.

Each Sunday morning, churches across the nation open their doors, hoping to not only deliver a fresh word to seasoned members, but also to breathe new life into someone new, someone who may be searching for something to fill that void that only Jesus Christ can.

The Crossing Church’s Lead Pastor Greg Dumas and his wife, Tamara.

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The Crossing Church, with its main location situated at 10130 Tuscany Ridge Drive in Tampa, is looking to do just that with a primary goal to reach more people for Jesus Christ. In other words, their purpose is to fulfill God’s Great Commission, in which Jesus states in Matthew 28:19-20, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”

No need to come dressed to the nines at The Crossing Church for Sunday morning. Instead, expect contemporary worship in a casual atmosphere and a message that is Biblical, practical, and relevant for everyday living.

“We want people to come as they are,” said Michael Pippin, The Crossing Church’s Media and Marketing Director. “We strive to create an environment where they can receive exactly what they need.”

Apart from the Word of God, The Crossing Church—an independent, non-denominational institution— believes a strong faith relies heavily on the building of strong relationships.

In order to fulfill that need, the church offers “LifeGroups.” Usually consisting of 10 to 12 people, LifeGroups allow The Crossing Church to effectively disciple all members of the congregation. It’s a time outside the traditional Sunday morning service where relationships are built on

THE CROSSING CHURCH MAIN CAMPUS ADDRESS: 10130 TUSCANY RIDGE DR. TAMPA, FLORIDA 33619 SOUTHSHORE CAMPUS ADDRESS: 3058 E. COLLEGE AVE. RUSKIN, FLORIDA 33570 PHONE: 813-626-0783 WEB: CROSSINGONLINE.ORG

The Crossing Church is a large, multi-sight, non-denominational church that desires to strike a balance between emphasis of both the Word of God and the Spirit of God.

a more intimate level, where people can pray together, study together, fellowship together, and care for one another in the relaxed atmosphere of a leader’s home.

The Crossing Church LifeGroups meet all across the Tampa Bay area, from St. Petersburg to Lakeland with many in between.

the Great Commandment found in Matthew 22:37-40, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart...soul... and mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.”

growth during its short history, allowing it to offer four Sunday services at its main location (9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m. for Spanish, and 5 p.m.). In addition, the church also opened a SouthShore Campus in Ruskin that meets at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Sundays.

members of that particular area. It’s the church’s goal to have campuses all over the Tampa Bay area and beyond.

But as for now, Lead Pastor Greg Dumas invites all Plant City residents to check out The Crossing Church.

The Crossing Church takes those words seriously and spends a great deal of their “We also have a large online audience for “There is an old saying that ‘If a church “We believe relationships flourish beyond time and resources working beyond the all our services and our Spanish services is alive, then it is worth the drive.’ The Crossing Church is certainly alive and Sunday mornings and that LifeGroups four walls of the church building. are broadcast on the radio,” said Pippin. thriving,” said Pastor Dumas. “I want to are the way people live life together,” said Pippin. “We believe that there are “We have united with other area churches Although it may seem like a far drive invite you to join us at one of our multiple many great churches that people can to bring help and support straight to from Plant City, Pippin ensures it is not services and locations. Our vision is to choose from and we desire to see all of people and local agencies who need it as the particular community is highly plant a new campus in your community. them attract and grow new people. But most, wherever they are found among our represented at The Crossing Church. God is doing something special here at we believe that the church is people and neighbors, through community ministries, In fact, Pippin said a future eastern The Crossing Church and we want you to that it is primarily relationships that keep and on overseas missions,” said Pippin. Hillsborough County campus is in the be a part of it all. I look forward to seeing “We give a minimum 10 percent of our works to better serve the needs and you soon. people staying anywhere.” budget to the needs of people across the In regards to the “Next Generation” street and around the world.” ministry, which is the umbrella that covers the children, teenagers, and young adults, Pippin continued, “We have several Pippin continued, “It is our passion to projects each year including such things as raise up this next generation of leaders feeding children both locally and globally, to be fully devoted followers of Jesus providing school supplies, drilling wells Christ. Each environment is specifically for those without water, providing books designed to equip this generation to be for local schools, organizing workdays the ‘Church’ and therefore transform our to paint and remodel homes, and much culture through the power of Christ in more. We believe in supporting the community and we are very active in this them.” pursuit.”

Sunday morning ministries for “Crossing Kids” includes Jungle Jam for Babies The Crossing Church began in April through PreK and Breakaway for those 2005 when members of Crosstown in Kindergarten through 5th grade. Community Church and The Pointe Emerge Student Ministries encompasses Church merged to form “one amazingly those in 6th through 12 grades with high strong and balanced body, making them schoolers meeting on Sunday nights at 5 one in His hands,” said Pippin. p.m. and middle schoolers meetings on Sunday mornings at 11 a.m. Furthermore, Because it emphasizes building up the the Sub30 Young Adult Ministry meets Kingdom of God locally and worldwide on Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. for 18 through and prayer as communicating with God— not just sending up requests but also 30 year olds. listening to His guidance for daily life— The Crossing Church believes a church The Crossing Church has seen substantial The Crossing Church’s passion is to raise up this next generation of leaders to be fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ. and its members grow when they follow FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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BUSINESS FOCUS

Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic, P.A.

Healing the Whole Person: Mind, Body, and Spirit

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DUKES CHIROPRACTIC HEALTH CLINIC, P.A. 2401 WALDEN WOODS DRIVE PLANT CITY, FLORIDA 33566 PHONE: 813-752-2524

n the archives at the South Florida Baptist Hospital, patrons can view old photographs of Brenda Dukes during her days as a candy striper. Little did she know back then that God would later lead her toward becoming one of our leading chiropractic physcians.

Although her main job is to heal patients, Dr. Dukes takes a holistic approach when it comes to medicine, touching her patients physically, mentally, and spiritually. She treats the whole person: body, mind, and spirit. Dr. Dukes’ mission centers around a Scripture in III John 2, stating, “Beloved, I wish above all things However, the late Dr. Harold Brewer saw that thou mayest prosper and be in health, something special in the young Brenda, even as they soul prosperth” and stands by gifting her with her first stethoscope and her motto, “to love, to serve, to give out of blood pressure cuff. abundance.”

“I think that’s pretty profound, that he could see there was a place he knew I was called to help...our community,” said Dr. Dukes. “He really encouraged me to continue my career in health care. He could see my desire for the science.”

Dr. Dukes is a 1976 Plant City graduate and received a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology and Chemistry at Oral Roberts University. She later obtained a Doctorate of Chiropractic from Life University in Marietta, Georgia.

Today, and since March 1985, Dr. Dukes directs her own private practice, Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic. Yet according to Dr. Dukes and her team, the office is more than a practice—it’s a ministry. In fact, when the office was dedicated over 28 years ago by her uncle, Dr. Herbert L. Bowdoin, he encouraged Dr. Dukes “to always take care of the people and God would take care of the rest.” She’s always heeded to his words, relying on the Great Physician for guidance each day.

According to Dr. Dukes, she strives to be on the cutting edge of her field by continuing her education. In November 1992, she earned a Diplomat in Neurology and later become board-certified in Orthopedics, really setting her apart from her peers.

Dr. Brenda Dukes (center) and her dedicated team Brenda Chandler, L.M.T. and Sherry Mershon.

At Dukes Chiropractic, staff members work together as a team, believing Together Everyone’s Abilities Make [healing] possible. The office boasts the skills of Brenda Chandler, LMT who’s

be truly healthy; because I desire to help the newborn, the aged, and those without hope; Because I choose to care for the patient with the disease—not the disease; because I wish to assist rather than intrude, to free rather than control; because I seek to correct the cause, not its effect; because I know doctors do not “I’m also very grateful to have the heal, only the body can heal itself; because support of a wonderful family that’s in I have been called to serve others; because the area who constantly gives back to our I want to make a difference; because every day I get to witness miracles; because I community,” said Dr. Dukes. know it is right.”

Apart from chiropractic care and massage AVAILABLE CARE FOR therapy, Dukes Chiropractic offers corrective exercises to help patients Joint Pain strengthen and correct pain-causing Neck and Back Pain irregularities, lifestyle advice to address pain symptoms, spinal and postural Pregnancy Care screenings to reveal important health Nutritional Screening information, and nutritional counseling. truly grateful to Dr. Dukes for the opportunity to serve those in need. In addition, Sherry Mershon—originally from Pennsylvania—brings extensive chiropractic knowledge to the office.

Dr. Dukes is also blessed to have the occasional help of Patricia Green.

Every day, Dr. Dukes truly makes a difference in the lives of her patients, helping them combat the pain that hinders them from reaching their full potential. However, to Dr. Dukes it’s not just her job…it’s her calling.

Dr. Brenda Dukes has been serving the Plant City area at her chiropractic health center for over 28 years.

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She stated, “I do this because I honor the inborn potential of everyone to

Headaches Spinal Pelvic Stabilizers (orthotic) Auto Injuries Rehabilitation Massage Therapy Artery Screenings

BUSINESS FOCUS

Fortis Institute

Jumpstart Your Future Today

FORTIS INSTITUTE 5925 IMPERIAL PARKWAY, SUITE 200 MULBERRY, FLORIDA 33860 PHONE: 863-646-1400 WEB: FORTIS.EDU Seacat continued, “Our staff treats our students’ first day of school like the first day on the job. We stress attitude, being in uniform, being presentable, and attendance. We teach our students how to be good employees, truly molding and guiding them.”

Students can also build on what they learn after completion of a Fortis program through the institute’s continuing education courses. Through these short classes, students can add even more skills Fortis Institute students training to become HVAC-R Technicians, skilled workers who are experts at installing, repairing, and maintaining heating, ventilation, to their repertoire, allowing them to increase their worth to current or future air-conditioning, and refrigeration systems. employers. Fortis Institute currently offers or many students, the traditional, after completing the required coursework Apart from teaching them the skills continuing education courses in Basic four-year liberal arts university is and externship (which usually leads to necessary to excel on the job, Fortis Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac not a very attractive route toward a employment). Although the duration of Institute also prepares students for the Life Support (ACLS), and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS). successful career. They don’t want to spend each program varies, Fortis Institute’s job application process. hours listening to lectures. They don’t Executive Director Stephanie Seacat want to waste time studying subjects that states that most students can complete “We pride ourselves in our career If you’re looking to take that next step by have no real importance to their future. their education in about one year. placement and assistance,” said Seacat. beginning the journey toward a successful They don’t want to be thousands of dollars “We help with resume writing, interview career, contact Fortis Institute’s admission in debt after graduation with no real job “Our programs are short term, so our skills, how to dress for success, and more... department today. Don’t let your future prospects in sight. And they sure don’t students are able to come in, get out, and We don’t just say ‘Here’s your diploma. pass you by. Enroll now. want to be just another face in a crowded start their career,” said Seacat.

You’re done’ after our students graduate. classroom.

We really take it to that next level to assist And they’ll start making money, too. them.”

Luckily, an educational alternative exists For instance, according to the Bureau right in Mulberry—Fortis Institute. of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median This career-driven school cuts right to pay for HVAC-R Technicians in 2010 the chase, allowing students to receive was $42,530 per year, and the industry interactive, hands-on training from is growing as well. BLS projects the seasoned industry professionals. In need for HVAC-R Technicians will addition, the intimate classroom settings grow 34 percent between 2010 and allow for much one-on-one instruction, 2020. Technicians can find career something rarely experienced at much opportunities with equipment supplies larger universities. and wholesalers, installation contractors, building maintenance and climate control After graduation, students at Fortis— firms, residential and industrial service whether recent high school graduates companies, the municipal government, or those looking for a career change— and much more. In other words, the will have received an education focused possibilities are endless. heavily on a particular skill that is highly sought after in communities In addition, all medical-related programs all around the nation. Fortis Institute offered at Fortis Institute are among some prepares students for careers as HVAC-R of today’s fastest growing occupations, Technicians, EMT/Paramedics, Medical especially in Florida which boasts a Assistants, X-Ray Technicians, and large population of aging senior citizens.

Medical Insurance Coding Specialists.

Medical Assisting, X-Ray Technician, EMT/Paramedic, and Medical Insurance Another advantage of attending Fortis Coding jobs are available and in high Institute is that students will be able to demand in the area. enter the workforce in just a few months

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EMT/Paramedic students receiving hands-on training from a certified instructor.

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BUSINESS FOCUS

Pak Mail

“We Ship Anything, Anywhere” tv/phono/radio unit to Florida. Pak Mail took care of it all. No problems. Unit arrived in a timely manner and in good condition. Would use Pak Mail again. The service in a word was ‘perfect’.”

GIVING BACK The partners are community oriented, too. Pak Mail’s philosophy includes a commitment to the neighborhoods they service because the locations are locally owned and operated. The Thonotosassa Street Pak Mail is a member of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and Sharma participates on Tuesdays in the local BNI Goldmine group. In addition to sponsoring an Antioch Little League team, the company contributes to Unity in the Community efforts.

Pak Mail is located at 2505 Thonotosassa Road in Plant City.

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iresh Sharma and Anil Mahabir are pleased with the business support from the Plant City community since they purchased their Pak Mail location at the Plant City Crossing Center in December 2012.

“Our experience here has been great,” said Mahabir. “This is a close-knit community and people are very friendly and familyoriented. We are enjoying the referral business they send us.”

The location has been a Pak Mail franchise since 2006, but the new Tampabased owners have definitely breathed new life into the business. The Pak Mail organization is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.

In addition to now being the only FedEx storefront operation in town, Pak Mail delivers and receives for and from DHL, UPS and the US Postal Service. They accept all FedEx Express and FedEx Ground packages and hope one day to own their own route. Notary services, private mailbox services and virtual office features are also available.

If you need anything shipped anywhere, Pak Mail can meet that need. In fact, the owners enjoy the challenge of properly packaging items so the contents arrive intact and on time.

CELL PHONES FOR SOLDIERS Since the non-profit “Cell Phones for Soldiers” program was started in April 2004, the organization has raised almost $1 million in donations and distributed more than 500,000 prepaid calling cards to soldiers serving overseas. Pak Mail has joined the effort to collect and recycle cell phones, which are then used to purchase

PAK MAIL 2505 THONOTOSASSA RD PLANT CITY, FL 33563 PHONE: 813-764-9878 WEB: PAKMAILTAMPABAY.COM HOURS: MON. - FRI. 9 A.M. TO 6 P.M., SAT. 10 A.M. TO 3 P.M. calling cards for 150,000 soldiers serving overseas.

PEANUT HOTLINE The Plant City Pak Mail location participates in this recycle/reuse program by providing consumers with a place to drop off their packing peanuts. The goal is to be environmentally friendly by saving energy, reducing waste, and conserving natural resources. Drop your extra peanuts off today!

Giresh Sharma invites customers to “check us out.” With a steady flow of business since they took over, the new owners and hands-on managers in their first venture together promise, “We won’t be beaten as far as packing and service.

We are on track to do what we want and to do it before we originally expected.

Thank you, Plant City, for welcoming us into your world.”

Richard Gopie, the Plant City Pak Mail’s “packing guru,” is a problem-solver. He thrives on creating the most efficient, protective containers for the company’s customers’ precious cargo.

“It’s a mindset,” he offered. “The solutions are all about price and time.”

Gopie has packaged everything from small, fragile and even perishable items like strawberries to the very large, such as a stuffed alligator head, motorcycle engines, and even boats.

“He can wrap anything,” encouraged Mahabir. “He’s that talented.”

Pak Mail can palletize, build crates, and shrink-wrap as items require. They regularly ship electronics, antiques, furniture, collectibles, perishables, fragile and awkward items. And customers who sell items on eBay sincerely appreciate the “We can pick up your drop offs, daily, convenience and smiling service. for business accounts as well,” explained A customer testimonial on the location’s Sharma. website reads: “Shipped a large antique If you need anything shipped anywhere, Pak Mail can meet that need.

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BUSINESS FOCUS

Railroad & Industrial Federal Credit Union Stronger than Ever

RAILROAD & INDUSTRIAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION 1701 W. BAKER ST. PLANT CITY, FLORIDA PHONE: 813-621-6661 WEB: RIFCU.ORG Railroad & Industrial is an equal housing lender and all deposits are federally insured by the NCUA. Railroad & Industrial—The Credit Union of Plant City—is conveniently located at 1701 W. Baker St. The branch and drivethru are open Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m., and on Friday until 6 p.m. The walk-up window and drive-thru of the branch are open on Saturdays from 9 a.m. until noon. The credit union has eight local locations and is a part of the shared credit union service centers which allows access nationwide to your accounts at participating branch locations. For more information about Railroad & Industrial Federal Credit Union, call 813-621-6661 or visit rifcu. org.

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ince 1935, Railroad & Industrial Federal Credit Union has provided continuous, uninterrupted financial service to their member-owners. The credit union continues to be among the top-rated credit unions of any asset class and is proud of their strong secure financial foundation that consumers expect from their “bank.” They are a part of Plant City and have been since 1991 when the doors of the Baker Street location opened.

Brian Spencer, branch manager of the Plant City office, has been in the credit union industry for 10 years and with the Railroad & Industrial since 2007. His staff has the knowledge, integrity and passion to make sure every interaction with member-owners is one that “goes above and beyond” every time. Brian is a native of the Tampa Bay area and is excited to be a part of the Plant City community. Be on the lookout for Brian at Plant City chamber events, Strawberry Festival events, and more. He is on the road most of the day introducing himself to the credit union’s many company groups and their employees.

Aside from servicing local businesses and their employees, Railroad & Industrial is a member of the Plant City Chamber of Commerce and makes every effort to be involved in the local community. Brian is a

participant in the new leadership program with the Chamber. They participate as volunteers at the annual Strawberry Festival. They participate in South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation events and many others.

The credit union offers many services as do most other financial institutions, like free checking, free online bill pay and free online banking, no maintenance fee IRAs and more. In addition to the many free services, they also offer a free auto buying service. The auto advisor, Chris Engel will find the car you want at the price you want and will even help you negotiate the tradein value of your old vehicle. Then when you’re ready for delivery, she will even accompany you to the dealer. While she is searching and negotiating for the vehicle you want, you can get pre-approved for a loan at the Plant City location. The credit union even has a lower payment option, Payment Advantage vehicle loan.

Some of the other innovative services include free mobile bill pay and remote deposit capability from your smart phone, tablet or other web-enabled hand-held device, as well as instant issue Visa® debit cards. With the instant issue debit card, you can walk in to open your checking and walk out with your debit card; no more waiting up to 10 business days to get your debit card.

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BUSINESS FOCUS

O’Neal & Sons Upholstery

Working Their Irish Magic for Over 70 Years

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ot many families can honestly say upholstery runs in their blood, but for the O’Neal’s it truly does. For over 70 years and four generations, their shared pastime has been customizing everything from dining room chairs to classic automobiles.

Jack O’Neal was the first family member to practice the trade, teaching aircraft upholstery classes at Tampa’s Brewster Vocational School in the 1940s. James O’Neal followed in his father and grandfather’s footsteps by working in the upholstery trade for several years.

He then went on to pursue a degree in clinical laboratory science and worked as an IT specialist at Moffitt Cancer Center for many years.

However, when Jason O’Neal ( James’ son) learned of the family trade, he knew that it was what he wanted to do. He wanted to own a business dedicated to upholstery.

James fully supported his son’s dream and the two opened O’Neal & Sons Upholstery. Jason began working on the sewing machine his dad had tucked away.

James would come home after working a long day at Moffitt Cancer Center and help Jason with the upholstery work in the shop behind the house.

Word of mouth grew and soon they had lots of jobs lined up along the driveway. It was getting to be too much to do at the house; they knew they would need a store front. They eventually spotted the perfect location, by the Twistee Treat Ice Cream cone on one of Plant City’s biggest and busiest roads—James Redman Parkway.

To this day it’s the only place in Plant City offering a full line of custom upholstery services.

O’Neal and Sons Upholstery services include everything from automobiles, marine applications and furniture.

They have done many complete vehicle restorations, watercraft seating and coverings and multiple pieces of furniture varying from new to antique, indoor to outdoor.

Jason O’Neal hard at work.

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“We offer a large variety of custom work and can give customers things that most places cannot,” said James. “They can pick any color fabric they want, any kind of stitching. You can go shopping, and

O’NEAL & SONS UPHOLSTERY 2303 JAMES REDMAN PARKWAY, STE. G PLANT CITY, FLORIDA 33563 PHONE: 813-752-0405 EMAIL: ONEALANDSONS@VERIZON.NET WEB: ONEALANDSONS.NET What makes O’Neal & Sons so trusted is their ability to communicate with customer in hopes of really trying to figure out what they want. James always suggests to clients that they take time picking out fabrics and making final decisions.

Working side by side with relatives is always a risky business, but the O’Neal family makes it work and has enjoyed every minute of their partnership.

“We get to see each other every day,” said James’ daughter-in-law Kim O’Neal, “and somehow we still like each other.”

James O’Neal is an upholstery expert.

you’ll get to choose from a few options. Although they enjoy the overseas At our shop we literally have thousands recognition, the O’Neal’s favorite customers will always be Plant City of choices just in fabrics alone!” residents.

They have also done upholstery services for several restaurants. Some of the “The people from this town are so nice, antique cars that they have reupholstered and there’s not a doubt in my mind that are for overseas clients, in Belgium and Plant City people are the nicest around,” beyond. In other words, their work is said James. “I’ve lived in Tampa, I grew in high demand, locally, nationally and up there, but I’ve noticed Plant City internationally. James believes the success people are easier to talk to and more of their business is through high customer trustworthy….When most people expect a job well done, Plant City residents satisfaction. always compliment our work and make us “Recently, our business has grown a lot. feel good about what we do.”

In fact, over the past few years, we have doubled our business,” said James. “I Two of O’Neal & Sons biggest fans are think a lot of it is because of word of Plant City residents Ralph and Sandra mouth advertising. A lot of our customers VanOstrand. Sandra stated, in a customer tell their friends about the quality of the testimony, “O’Neal & Sons was referred to work we have done.” James continued, us by a local hardware store. We initially “We have a lot of people say to us that we went to them with a rip in the seat of my came highly recommended. And recently, husband’s truck. Once we met James and we’ve had a lot of new customers say we his wife Kim (1) and Jason and his wife came ‘highly recommended by several Kim (2), we made friends immediately. people.’ We’re an established company From there, they have recovered a chair, and our reputation is spreading. It’s truly an ottoman, our boat seats, as well as our restored 1985 El Camino and our 1993 the best way to grow.”

BMW motorcycle seat. They have done

“I’m proud of how my son and daughterin-law took to this kind of work,” James added. “We work well together and have a shared goal, to really try our best for our customers. I’m not saying we’re perfect, but we give our best each time.”

work for all of our family members. I wouldn’t trust just anyone with a car For all your upholstery needs, give O’Neal restoration or my boat and bike, but I & Sons a call. They’ll be sure to do the job would trust the O’Neals with anything right…and do it beautifully.

I have. They are not only wonderful at upholstery but are also trusted friends.”

Brother Jamie also works at the family-owned company.

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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BUSINESS FOCUS

Uptown Girls

High-end, Designer Fashion for Less

UPTOWN GIRLS 110 E. REYNOLDS ST., STE. 300 PLANT CITY, FLORIDA 33563 PHONE: 813-756-6901 Women shopping at Uptown Girls can enjoy a comfortable shopping experience, but with lots of choices in tops, skirts, dresses, jackets, formal wear, and more.

Tara also adds that consignment shopping is a great alternative to traditional clothes shopping because “if you can buy something at a lower price, you’ll be able to change your wardrobe more often. We all get tired of wearing those same old clothes all the time.”

The trio is also looking forward to hosting fun monthly events at the shop, new things that no one else offers. For example, Wine Down Friday, Chanel Make-Up events, styling classes, Balloons and Bubbly, and Guys Night Out Shopping are just a few events they plan on kicking off soon.

Diane Mueller, Tara Smith, and Carole Wright recently opened Uptown Girls, an upscale consignment boutique located in downtown Plant City.

I

Diane, Carole, and Tara thoroughly enjoy their recently acquired downtown Plant City location and are relishing in being a part of the quaint downtown community.

Stop by their shop on Reynolds Street today. They can’t wait to meet you and help spice up your fashion life.

career, immediately jumped onboard with What makes Uptown Girls unique is that her friends’ idea. it’s not crowded like most consignment shops, and they don’t carry ordinary “Everyone loves to look nice and feel clothing—only trusted brand names. good wearing clothing that suits their personality and body type,” said Diane.

“We love fashion just like everyone else and we enjoy helping someone find Luckily, Uptown Girls, a new upscale something they really like that makes boutique including high-end consignment them look and feel great.” is located in historic downtown Plant City. This new boutique provides a low- The team works perfectly together and cost solution for all your fashion needs. plays off each other’s strengths. Diane The shop offers gently used, “like new” manages the boutique, Tara heads up designer brands for women including marketing and sales, and Carole is in but not limited to BCBG, Coach, Ralph charge of financial management.

Lauren, Ann Taylor, Calvin Klein, Guess, Michael Kors, and Jessica Simpson. “The three of us work beautifully together Unlike most consignment shops, the and enjoy each other’s company,” said boutique also offers a retail section Diane. “We’ve been able to transform carrying brands like Esley & C.Luce & this once plain rental facility into a lovely establishment. We love seeing old friends Umgee. and meeting new ones.”

Uptown Girls was the brainchild of area residents Diane Mueller and Carole All consignments at Uptown Girls are Wright. Diane was looking to start her selected by appointment only and only own business after retiring from an clothes that are in excellent condition office manager position. After much are accepted. Once an item is sold, the consideration, and even traveling to consigner will receive a percentage of the franchise shows, the two friends thought selling price. If an item is not sold after a consignment shop was a great way 90 days, it’s returned to the consigner or to serve women in their community donated to a local charity in Hillsborough and incorporate their love for fashion. County.

All consignments at Uptown Girls are selected by appointment only and only clothes that are in Tara Smith, a former national accounts excellent condition are accepted. manager who was looking for a new f you’re guilty of trying on outfit after outfit before heading out the door, it may be time to freshen up your wardrobe. However, new clothing can be quite expensive, especially if you desire high quality, fashionable apparel that will last and look good.

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BUSINESS FOCUS

Walden Lake Car Wash & Service Center

Official Car Wash of the Florida Strawberry Festival with the Early Bird Special from 8-10 a.m., Mondays through Fridays. Many love the multi-car monthly specials, too. Save a bunch with the no-contractrequired “Pay-One-Price” for a month of unlimited Full Service or Ultimate Service. There is no extra charge for SUVs, pickup trucks or vans.

Owner Frank Cummings of Walden Lake Car Wash.

W

The Better Business Bureau registered company is proud to be a Plant City Chamber of Commerce member.

Frank is also a Chamber Ambassador, a Leadership 2013 graduate and a member of the Lion’s Club. “If I’m not here, I’m Owned by spouses Frank and Dolly out doing something for the community,” Cummings and lifelong family friend he said.

Andrew Breimann, the business was recently selected as “Best Car Wash 2013” The business supports local food and toy drives, many charitable causes and the by the Plant City Courier.

Durant Cougars Girls Basketball and The 15 employees even behave as owners. PCHS Varsity Football teams.

They’ve received intensive training, love explained, “Throughout their work and love pleasing the folks who Cummings the year we love to help community entrust their vehicles to them for service.

“Cheerful” and “thorough” are descriptors organizations, schools, and churches with the Customer Loyalty Card Program their fundraising efforts.” regulars use when they refer their friends.

Take advantage of the many discounts and And another word is “spotless.” specials! You can also sign up for special Paul Pickern, a frequent customer, credits offers on Facebook and the company’s the staff for their attention to detail. “Our newsletter on its website. cars are parked under oak trees, and the employees take extra time to remove the On Mondays and Wednesdays, save $2 sap and leaves that gather in the hood and on the $7 Exterior Wash when you tell trunk openings. And they’re happy while Howard at the starting line. Every day is Ladies Day and Senior Day with 20% off. they work!”

Area nurses, firefighters, law enforcement In addition to superior service and and military personnel receive 10% off the welcoming facility, customers love on services for their personal vehicles. the price/value and the fact that the (Squad cars taken home are washed for family-owned business is serious about half-price). Everyone can save $4 off every wash originally priced over $10 community involvement. alden Lake Car Wash & Service Center customers agree. There’s a special level of energy and excitement at the “official car wash of the Florida Strawberry Festival.”

WALDEN LAKE CAR WASH & SERVICE CENTER 1414 S. ALEXANDER STREET PLANT CITY, FL 33563-8412 PHONE: 813-752-7226 WEB: WALDENLAKECARWASH.COM HOURS, 8AM-6PM MONDAY-SATURDAY

Another great timesaver for folks The center’s staff can clean your boat or purchasing specific services is the FREE Pick Up/Drop Off. Bonded and insured RV, too! drivers can pick up and deliver vehicles Oil changes and routine vehicle to your home or office within a 10-mile maintenance are also available, with a radius of the Alexander Street location. full line of premium automotive service products featuring Mobil 1 Motor Oil. Treat your loved ones with gift cards for With each oil change, customers receive services and watch them smile. “Detailing their choice of a Super Wash for $11.99 is a popular choice,” Cummings said. or the Ultimate Wash for $16.99, a $10 “Two people work on the car’s interior— shampooing seats and carpet and cleaning savings on each. the AC vents, console and headliner. Then Families especially appreciate earning they clean and wax the exterior so it looks points for washes and oil changes with brand new. It’s always a sweet surprise.” the Customer Loyalty Card Program.

Seven equal a free wash! And, for a bonus, The business is open six days, but closed cardholders receive a FREE Full Service on Sundays because, according to Car Wash on their birthday (or for Cummings, “That’s church and family convenience sake, the day before or after). day.”

Walden Lake Car Wash is conveniently located at 1414 S Alexander Street.

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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IN THE BUSINESS OF SAVING LIVES Rotary Club of Plant City

Feature By Amanda Deck

It started as a normal day for Dr. Felix Haynes—former Plant City HCC president and current publisher of the Plant City Times and Observer. He hopped in pool at the Brandon Family YMCA and began his typical workout, sixty lengths in 30 minutes.

As always, Haynes paced himself; however, on lap 19 his body started to ache. He exited the pool, entered the locker room and, feeling weak and short of breath, gently eased himself onto a nearby bench.

Then he passed out.

A concerned citizen found Haynes on the floor—unconscious—and immediately a trained YMCA staff member placed the pads of a Automated External Defibrillator (AED) unit on his chest.

The machine revealed that Haynes had experienced a life-threatening condition and that his heart needed to be jumpstarted.

After two electric shocks, Haynes woke up. The concerned citizen, the trained YMCA staff member, and ultimately, the AED saved Haynes’ life.

“Needless to say, I strongly endorse our Plant City Rotary’s campaign to raise funds to place an AED in every Plant City police car,” said Haynes in an editorial. “I know it will save lives.”

Announcing the Project On August 20, just months after an AED saved Haynes (a Plant City Rotarian), the Rotary Club of Plant City announced their newest major endeavor, that it will raise funds toward the purchase of AED devices for all Plant City Police Department Patrol Cars.

Each year, the area Rotary Club raises approximately $70,000 for local charities and college scholarships through annual fundraisers. However, the Club occasionally takes on additional large-scale projects. Most recently, in 2011, they made a three-year commitment to the Plant City Food Bank, giving over $30,000. Ten years ago, the club raised $100,000 to make Gilchrist Park completely handicap accessible.

Club President Aaron Davis was inspired by a similar AED Rotary project done in Lakeland. After much research, the Club discovered that the Plant City Police Department possessed just five AEDs, one stationary unit and four portables that are rotated between patrol cars. The Plant City Police Department boasts 68 cars.

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“A 911 call comes in and it can be for anything—a heart attack, a car accident. Anything can cause someone’s heart to stop beating,” said Davis. “The bottom line is we’ve got 68 patrol cars that are always out driving around, but an ambulance has to be dispatched even though the police may be just nearby.

Davis continued, “Right now, if that police car shows up and it does not have an AED, I believe the statistic is you have just six minutes to live before your heart needs resuscitation.”

68 out of 68 A typical AED can cost several thousand dollars, which is why the Plant City Police Department only has four portable devices at the moment.

“The reason we haven’t pursued the purchase of more AEDs is simply due to the cost,” said Plant City Police Chief Steven Singletary. “Most law enforcement agencies realize the need for more AEDs, but due to the high cost most can’t afford to equip all their officers with them.”

In fact, a recent survey showed that just one-third of Florida police agencies

had patrol cars with AED devices. Of the one-third, less than 50 percent of the cars were equipped.

Therefore, the Plant City Police Department was elated upon hearing about the Rotary’s AED project.

“Simply put, the more AEDs we have in Plant City police cars means more Plant City lives that can potentially be saved,” said Chief Singletary.

In addition, the Club hopes to go above and beyond, not only providing units for all 68 patrol cars, but also having enough money in the budget to replace the AED batteries and pads as needed in the future.

“The City has always been a leader in the state as far as running a tight budget and government and providing for its citizens,” said Davis. “Our police department does a great job and we just wanted to give back to our force as well as our community. What better way to do that than give a device that could save anyone’s life.”

How They’ll Do It The Rotary Club is known for its two annual fundraisers, April’s Wild Game Cookout and November’s Dancing with the Locals.

In order to raise money for the AEDs, all funds raised by this year’s dance contestants will go directly to the new project. In addition, the club has asked area businesses to step up and donate. Sponsors who give $1,000 or more will have their organization’s name engraved on a recognition board to be displayed at the police department, among other perks. Those who donate $10,000 will receive an AED unit for their place of business along with free, hands-on training.

“I want Plant City businesses and citizens to get behind this project,” said Davis. “This is the one project where the life you save may be your own. And what better way to help the men and women of our police force, those

who are risking their lives on a daily basis to ensure we’re kept safe. We now have the opportunity to help those people, giving them an additional life-saving weapon.”

Attorney Johnnie B. Byrd has been a huge proponent of AEDs since his time serving as state representative and fully backs the project.

He stated, “As our former state representative who helped pass successful legislation to allow widespread use, I get a good feeling every time I read about a person being saved by an AED. I’m convinced of the righteousness of this cause, and I hope that working through Rotary we can give our fellow citizens who suffer heart attacks a second chance at life.”

Sponsorship levels include $10,000, $5,000, $1,500, $1,000, $500, and $250. If you’re interested in giving to this great cause, please make checks payable to Plant City Rotary Foundation, P.O. Box 1404, Plant City, Florida 33563. For more information, contact rotarypc@ gmail.com or 813-754-4440.

FACTS

+ Cardiac arrest claims about 330,000 lives each year—or 900 per day—nationwide + In Florida, approximately 10,000 people suffer a cardiac arrest each year and 95% of them die before reaching a hospital + For every minute a cardiac arrest victim is not defibrillated, his or her chances of survival declines 7 to 10% + Brain death starts to occur in just 4 to 6 minutes after a sudden cardiac arrest + If defibrillation can be performed within the first 1 to 3 minutes, there is a 70 to 80% chance of survival FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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BUSINESS & FINANCE

WHAT’S YOUR LEGACY?

A GRANDPARENT’S PERSPECTIVE Column by Edward Jones

L

ook at your grandchildren and think of the possibilities in 10, 20 or 30 years—nurse, humanitarian, business owner, world traveler, mayor, mother, soldier, teacher—successful.

One way to give your grandchildren a head start to success is by investing in their future. Financial challenges for our children and grandchildren are unique to their generations—they face skyrocketing college and child care costs, and a fading reliance on pensions and Social Security.

Helping them now for financial needs later is more than a gift, it’s a legacy.

from a college education empowers our young people to seek higher paying jobs, access more opportunities and provide for their future families.

You might want to consider setting up or contributing to a 529 plan, which is a tax-advantaged savings plan designed specifically for college-related expenses.* The rising cost of education has resulted in a large number of students graduating with a significant amount of school debt. The legacy of education savings may well help your grandchild graduate with less—or even no—debt.

With Grandparents Day on Sept. 8, it’s a If funding education is your goal, take the great time to think about the legacy you time to visit with an Edward Jones financial want to leave your grandchildren. advisor about the pros and cons of the various 529 plans and other savings tools.

A GENERAL FINANCIAL LEGACY

If leaving a legacy for your grandchildren is important to you, consider opening a custodial account, which specifically benefits your grandchild and is administered by an adult—the custodian—until your grandchild is of legal age as set by state law.

For this kind of legacy, a custodial account is an important part of your estate plan, and an estate-planning attorney can help you explore options for including your grandchildren.

A LEGACY OF EDUCATION

It’s been said that if you give a man a fish, he eats for a day; if you teach him to fish, he eats for a lifetime. Education is the same kind of lifelong gift. The gift of knowledge

Need reassuraNce? I offer It.

Has your confidence in Wall Street been shaken? Volatile markets can test your conviction and purpose. But it’s important to have a thoughtful plan—and stick with it.

Let me help you create a sensible, comprehensive investment plan and guide you to remain on track to reach your goals.

Call today for more information or to schedule a consultation.

Investing in securities involves risk, including possible loss of principal. No strategy can assure success or guarantee against loss in declining markets.

THINK THROUGH HOW TO LEAVE YOUR LEGACY

When deciding how to gift to your grandchildren, remember to identify ways to balance your goal of gifting to your grandchildren without upsetting your retirement income strategy. To get started, set up a face-to-face meeting with an Edward Jones financial advisor in your community to help ensure your financial strategy incorporates all your gifting and retirement goals. *Withdrawals used for expenses other than qualified education expenses may be subject to federal and state taxes, plus a 10% penalty. There may be state tax incentives available to in-state residents who invest in their home state’s 529 plan.

Cameron Financial Management MICHAEL CAMERON 110 W. REYNOLDS ST, STE 109 PLANT CITY, FL 33565 (813)759-8485 (813)759-8183 michaels.cameron@lpl.com Independence Powered By LPL Financial.

Securities offered through LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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8 – www.CentralFlaHomesAndMore.com

www.CentralFlaHomesAndMore.com – 15

Lou McGrath

Mac McGrath

BROKER

BROKER-Salesperson

813-754-8888

813-967-1820 507 W. Dr. MLK Blvd.

Plant City, FL 33566

macmcgrath@mail.com

RE D $1 UC 00 E K D

813-754-8888

JUST LIKE NEW - Home owners really thought of everything when they designed this custom built home. All exterior walls are insulated concrete block.

Underground electric from the road. All interior stainless appliances stay with exception of washer/dryer. Touch faucet in kitchen. Owner will leave extra paint, tiles, & pavers. Real wood oak floors. Built in shelving. 42 inch kitchen cabinets.

Island in kitchen. Two ovens. Oversized kitchen drawers for pots. Double pane windows. Walk-in master shower with body jets. Built in blinds on french doors.

Two high efficiency a/c units w/5 tons of total air. Two water heaters. Oversized closets & additional storage. Double walk-in closets in master bath. Brick paved lanai & grilling area is also screened in. Ceiling fans throughout. Closet pantry in kitchen plus addt’l oversized walk-in pantry. Home is wired for sec. sys. for all doors & windows. Handicap accessible. Iron filter & water softener on deep well. Septic Drainfield is located in far NE of property & out of the way. Fully encl. workshop has electric & is on own meter. Also has a lean-to for boat storage. Two metal storage sheds for RV & Boat storage. $359,900 MLS:T2586567

HOUSE W/4 ACRES - Beautiful custom built home with lots of thought & detail to quality & craftsmanship. The main living areas have tile w/carpet in the 3 large size BRs. Master bath has large vanity, extra large jacuzzi tub & a walk-in shower. Family rm has a beautiful flagstone fireplace as focal point and can accommodate a large family gathering easily. Oversized laundry rm with cabinets that connect directly to the 3 car gar. The kitchen has stainless steel appl., granite counters w/a nice granite sink.

There is a pass-thru from kitchen to the scr. in back porch where it could easily be turned into a fantastic outdoor kitchen. In the large fenced in backyard, there is a wood deck with 2 Koi pond waterfalls connected by a stream. Enclosed barn for any type of livestock you may want to consider as well as nice size storage sheds to keep the yard tools out of the weather. There is a built-in generator with 800 gallon propane tank.

Hurricane proof garage doors, clear hurricane panels for the entire house, new roof w/secondary barrier & a new efficient Trane AC Seer 19 with whole house air filtration sys. (10 yr warranty). Property is completely fenced & there is a nice entry Driveway gate w/solar powered automatic commercial gate opener. $296,000 MLS:T2575913

HUGE COMPOUND. 11+ manicured acres with pond and decking. Full baseball field in back yard complete with dugout. Fully enclosed RV garage with 50 feet of depth or can be used for a netted batting cage. Air-conditioned and fully equipped work out room with full bathroom. 30x30 game room with full kitchen, pool table, and full bathroom. 5 bedrooms and 8 bathrooms. Automated Gated entry and beautifully landscaped. This is a must see and great for a large family. Too many extras to list. $749,000 MLS:T2573253

BRING YOUR DEVELOPMENT PLANS. Great site for single family homes located close to I-4 or farm land. There currently exists a manufactured home on the property that is incidental to the value. Recent delineation has 43.2 upland acres. $599,900 MLS:T2582242

LARGE CUSTOM HOME - Not a Short Sale. Large house with large rooms. Over 3,000 sq ft under air. Custom Built with many upgrades. Metal Barn is 24X36 with concrete floor.

Great neighborhood located on dead end road. Large parcels surround the 1+ acre lot. Owner will consider selling most of the furniture as well. $374,900 MLS:T2571182

COMMERCIAL LOT Ready for Development. Frontage on 3 Roads. Located within the Walden Woods Business District.

Established commercial area. This is a corner lot with high visibility. $1,135,000 MLS:T2554400

ES CR A 5

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3+ ACRES, 3 BR/3BA CUSTOM HOME Priced below Appraised Value. . . Custom Quality Built home with lots of extras...2390 SF living area includes Family room - Formal Dining & Living rooms - Huge laundry room with storage. 3 Bedrooms & 3 full baths...3.64 Acres total with nicely shaded Pond...Let the pets roam free. Call for directions to this home today. Call Mac or Lou for more details. $255,000

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1 SITE LEFT....READY FOR DEVELOPING. 5 near Golf Course Community of Diamond Hills...Well and impact fee credits available...Rural area of Dover / East Hillsborough County...minutes from various County Parks & Playgrounds, Horses. Owners look at all offers...Call MAC for more details...$199,900

R ED U C ED

COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS Almost New Commercial Development. Many posiblities if new owner would like to convert building into a different use. Two 3,044 sq ft spaces. One is built out as office, other is built out for tanning salon.

Tanning salon equipment is negotiable. 3,277 sq ft Metal warehouse in rear of property. Large breezeway between buildings could be enclosed to join two office spaces for a total of 7,100 sq ft. 52 parking spaces will allow any commercial use with city zoning ordinance. $1,800,000 MLS:T2554274

31+ PRISTINE ACRES - Plenty of options at a great price.

Property does contain some wetlands, however, boundary survey is completed with delineation. Property is currently leased for Greenbelt purposes. $249,900.

ED UC D RE

CUSTOM BUILT Home on Large Corner Lot. Beautiful Yard.

Home is 3 bedrooms with split plan and 2 bathrooms with a full bath in the garage. Home has a central vacuum system.

Lawn irrigation is on a private deep well. $166,000 MLS:T2568850

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COMMERCIAL SHORT SALE. Permitted and ready to turn dirt. Located directly North of US Post Office located at HWY 60 and Miller Rd. Concurrency has been met as well as County Water and Sewer Capacity for the property.

Environmental Phase I audit has been performed and Site Assessment has passed EPA criteria. $124,900

RAISING THE BAR IN HOME CARE Linda came to our house in a very big time of need. She is a good caring person who showed us just that! She knows her business and she definitely anticipates all of your needs. She comes to us with that contagious smile and takes very excellent care of me.

- Mr. & Mrs. Bartareau

Right at Home of Plant City has been the agency of choice of clients who care about their loved one. We go the extra mile to find the right caregivers and yes, we do have the best caregivers.

It is an honor and privilege to announce Linda Bissing as the Right at Home of Plant City Caregiver of the month. Linda has been a RAH Caregiver since 2009 and in the last few years she has been highly praised by her clients for always going beyond the call of duty.

All of us with Right at Home are so proud to work with Linda. We congratulate her on this wonderful accomplishment.

Right at Home of Plant City provides Companion Care, Personal Care and light housekeeping all for the same hourly rate.

Call us today and see how Right really affordable we are. at Home 813-764-9290 ®

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Prices are Based on Time that is Needed.

We Offer One Time Cleaning • Licensed - Insured - Bonded • References Available Upon Request FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

71

Over 25 Years of Real Estate Experience

Natalie Sweet REALTOR®

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AFFORDABLE WALDEN LAKE HOME This Walden Lake home

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1607 S. Alexander Street • Plant City, FL 33563

Then...1963

Now...2013

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REAL ESTATE » WALDEN LAKE REVIEW

WALDEN LAKE REVIEW Column by Natalie Sweet

T

he Walden Lake Community Association Board Meetings are the third Monday of each month at the Walden Lake Community Association office building on Griffin Boulevard in Walden Lake. The next meeting is scheduled for Sept. 16, beginning at 6 p.m.

The meetings are open to all Walden Lake residents.

I, along with others in the community, appreciate the recent newsletter from the Board of Directors containing a letter to the Walden Lake residents regarding Vision’s Golf ’s plans for the Golf and Country Club.

This letter clearly outlines the directors concern and frustration, along with what they can and cannot do at this time. As of this article, myself and the directors are not aware of anything pending with the City.

If you missed the newsletter, you can find it on the HOA website, WaldenLake.org.

If you have not visited the site and need a password, contact Bette at 813-754-8999.

Walden Lake now has a Facebook page for all residents to share community events, post fun pictures and exchange ideas.

Check it out on Facebook by typing in the search field, Walden Lake Homeowners Association and like the page to keep up with information on our beautiful community and for you to post events and photos.

children entered the pool. They picked up their free school supplies, dropped their towels and dove in. They were entertained by a DJ and games with prizes. Marco’s Pizza arrived and all attending enjoyed and then went to the ice cream bar and cooled off with cold, cold ice cream. A special thank you goes out to Vision’s Golf for allowing the free use of their pool for this wonderful event.

Due to the massive rain storms, some of the grass along the lower lying areas cannot be mowed. Those areas tend to be soft when soaked with rain and would be damaged when using heavy equipment. They are being attended to as quickly as they can get the equipment in without doing significant damage.

By this time, your HOA dues for the 2nd quarter should have been paid. If you have not paid your dues, you would have received a pre-lien notice with an additional $47 due. This notice tells you that you have 45 days from when the notice was sent (August 5th) to pay in full or a lien will be filed. Once a lien is filed, the amount increases substantially, due to attorney fees and interest. If you are having trouble paying your dues, please do not ignore it, call the HOA office at 813-754-8999 and talk to them about your situation. You may be able to avoid all the extra fees!

As the minutes were counting down before Feel free to contact me about any real estate the 2nd Annual Back to School Party, the questions or about this article. NSweet@ clouds filled and the rain came, but the KW.com or 813-758-9586. sun was shining at 6 p.m. as Walden Lake FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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REAL ESTATE » MORTGAGE

Plant City’s

best kePt

seCret new Home Community at Park PlaCe

IS YOUR MONEY

UNDER YOUR MATTRESS?

A

Column by Nate Davis

• Money Markets • 401Ks • CDs • Stocks • Bonds • The documented sales of funds, such as a For instance, money stashed under a bed bill of sale on anything from a home, to a mattress cannot be used. The same goes for boat, to a piece of jewelry. cash buried in the backyard.

The other thing prospective homebuyers In all seriousness, assets used to buy or need to know is that underwriters scrutinize refinance a home must be sourced. In other these paper trails more than anything else in a loan file. So please do not bring a words, there needs to be a paper trail. pillowcase stuffed full of cash to qualify for For example, let’s take gift funds. Often, a mortgage loan. homebuyers will get a gift of money from a relative to purchase a home. If such funds There are several types of mortgages are to be used, copies of the check for gift available, and the guidelines for allowable funds will need to be documented, as well funds have slight variances for each as the bank statements showing where they one. If you have any questions about this, call 813-707-6200 or email nate@ are coming from.

PlantCityMortgages.com. My team will be Acceptable sources of funds include, but are happy to answer your questions. not limited to: • Checking Accounts • Savings Accounts nybody making a down payment on a home needs to know there are restrictions on how those funds can be obtained, as well as the source of any assets.

• 71 Home Sites on large, oversized lots • Private, gated community located 3 minutes from I-4 • Natural gas, Double-paned thermal windows, and icynene foam insulation.

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Call Model Center at 813-767-5175 FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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3/2/2 Pool home on 1+ acre. New wood cabinets with granite counter tops, new porcelain tile. Family rm. With skylight and large stone fireplace. 37X17 screened patio with a sparkling 26x37 in ground pool with new pool pump. 36X36 cypress barn/wk shop/ hobby shop, etc. & 2 Bays w/electric.

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Land with city utilities! Home has been removed leaving a blank slate on which to build your own work of art. May still be impact fee exempt? Motivated sellers waiting to look at offers. Dont miss your opportunity to own and build in beautiful,Historic Plant City where lots like this are scarce. Call Susan @ 863-698-4826 #521

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

77

SPORTS

AMATEUR BASEBALL REVIVED

SAINTS REPRESENT PLANT CITY IN TAMPA BAY NABA LEAGUE

F

orty years ago, a few communities in this area still had remnants of semipro and amateur baseball teams, but in the brief years that followed, those teams were shelved and not much was heard regarding adult amateur baseball until recent years.

Today, amateur baseball has experienced a revival, and there are several adult amateur baseball organizations that have seen an influx of new leagues and an increase in participation.

The National Adult Baseball Association, headquarted in Denver, is one of those organizations. They have experienced unprecedented growth and boast more than 62,000 participants in 102 leagues in 40 states. Two years ago, the Tampa Bay NABA was born, and this year, the Plant City Saints, a team primarily made up of players from eastern and southern Hillsborough County was formed.

The 14-team Tampa Bay league is open to everyone, but it is mostly comprised of former professional and college players who want to continue playing the game.

The Saints, however, are all 18-23 years of age, all played high school, most played or

Article by Jackson Smith

committed to college, and two had been average (.576) and slugging percentage recently released from their minor league (1.182) while hitting five homers assignments. and driving in 22 runs. Dovale recently transferred from Southern to Coached by former NCAA Player of the Florida Year and former New York Yankee, Bobby Warner University.

Green, the team struggled in the beginning due to the consistency of the players to First baseman Travis be at the games. With work schedules Cannoles also led and games on Sundays, it was difficult to the league in two field a complete team until enough players categories; home were added to the roster. Intially, the team runs and runslost three games by forfeit and played two batted-in with 7 games with only eight players. But once and 25 respectively. the roster expanded, the Saints ended the In July, Cannoles to regular season winning 10 of their last 12 committed Clearwater Christian games.

College. Dovale and According to Tampa Bay NABA, the Cannoles were both Plant City Saints, sponsored by the Florida first team All-League Baseball Heaven baseball academy, tied for selections. second place in the American League, but lost in the playoffs at the end of 13 innings The Saints picked up valuable on a Texas-tie-breaker to the Dade City pitching from two more first team Brewers, a team the Saints had beaten the selections, Jonathan Alvarez and Evan Bowles. Alvarez, who pitched at St. previous week by a score of 8-2.

Andrews College, threw even better than The Saints’ offense was paced by Anthony his record indicated. The lefthander posted and had Dovale who led the league in both batting a 3-2 mark with 49 strikeouts in 39 innings an ERA of 2.08. Alvarez also played in the midseason All-Star game held at Jack Russell Stadium in Clearwater.

Bowles, a previous Emmanuel College commit, was second in the league with an undefeated 5-0 record and third in the league with a 1.01 ERA as well as compiling a miniscule .130 on-base-average while giving up only three earned runs in eight games.

Selected for the second team was shortstop Rene Negrete and second baseman Luis Gomez. Negrete led the League in runs with 24 and tied for the lead in doubles with seven. He ended with a .392 BA. Right behind Negrete was Gomez with a .386 average and 14 RBI’s which placed him in the top ten in that category.

Other players on the final roster included Zack Rowe (.371 BA), Cody Hall, Chris Reynoso, Charles Miller, Ryan Caporice, Joshua Fidler, Spencer Andrews, Josh Botts, and Andrew Virgili.

The Plant City Saints following their final game of the Tampa Bay NABA playoffs. Photo courtesy of Jonathan Alvarez

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Recreate PMS

SPORTS » ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

SPONSORED BY CHILI’S

Article by Joe Bowles

LEXI THOMPSON D

3001 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City, FL 813-764-8548 www.chilis.com

urant High School senior Lexi Thompson would like to participate in extracurricular activities. However, she doesn’t have the time. Over the past few years she’s been pursuing her dream to play volleyball at the Division I level. So according to the dominant outside hitter, volleyball takes up all of her time.

Recently, Thompson’s hard work paid off as she took one step closer to achieving her personal goal by verbally committing to play for Coach Joe Getzin’s Ole Miss Rebels starting in the fall of 2014. Thompson had been considering the University of Tennessee and UCF, but chose the University of Mississippi because its small, hometown atmosphere reminded her of Plant City. While at Ole Miss, Thompson will follow in the footsteps of several family members, ultimately hoping to earn a master’s degree in civil engineering.

Thompson began playing volleyball competitively in 4th grade, and her ability to learn the game at such a young age allowed her to rise above her peers. While a freshman at Tampa’s Sickles High School, Thompson made the varsity team and led the 2010-11 Gryphons in kills with 235. That year, she was also named First Team Western Conference in the American Division (South Tampa and Northwest Hillsborough County).

The volleyball standout also made First Team Western Conference in 2011 and 2012 in the Federal Division (Eastern Hillsborough County) after transferring to Durant High School. Although her number of kills decreased in 2011-12, she came back with a vengeance her junior year to compile 295 kills. She also added serving to her arsenal, leading her team with 29 aces in 152 total serve attempts.

Many of Thompson’s fans and teammates are expecting her to break Chelsea Morris’ 2008 record for most kills in a single season with 353. Thompson has already complied 23 kills in three games this season, with every game inching her closer to reaching the impressive feat. But individual accolades aren’t what motivate Thompson on the court.

“I don’t have any personal goals,” said Thompson, “but I have team goals—to get to November.”

The Cougars have had much postseason success throughout the school’s relatively short history. In fact, Durant has reached regional tournament play 16 times out of the school’s 18 years of existence, including a stretch of 14 straight years from 1995 to 2008.

Therefore, coming up short in 2012, losing in the district semi-finals to Wharton, was a major disappointment to one of the state’s perennial volleyball powerhouses, and is something Thompson never wants to experience again. In addition, her goal—like her entire team—is to go beyond regional play and reach November’s Florida state tournament.

In fact, Durant hasn’t contended in the FHSAA state tournament since 2007, when Thompson’s aunt—and role model—Dawn Hough, served as the Cougars’ head coach. Thompson wants to make her aunt, a 1999 Durant High School graduate and former Florida State middle hitter, proud this year, and is to whom she owes most of her volleyball success.

Thompson also praised Jeff Lamm, her Tampa Bay One 18 Black club team coach, stating that through his guidance she was exposed to several college coaches and helped make her dream of playing Division I volleyball a reality.

We look forward to following Lexi Thompson and the rest of the Durant volleyball squad this season.

We’re hoping for big things out of number 3. Go Cougars!

Durant High School senior Lexi Thompson, an Ole Miss volleyball commit, is looking to lead her team to the FHSAA 7A state tournament this November. Photo courtesy of Coach Wade

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SPORTS » TEAM OF THE MONTH

DURANT HIGH SCHOOL

VARSITY VOLLEYBALL

SPORTS TEAM OF THE MONTH

F

or the five seniors on the Durant High School Varsity Volleyball team—Lexi Thompson, Victoria Fanning, Bella Anzalone, Morgan Sistrunk, and Kelsey Morton—it’s do or die. The 2013-14 season is their last chance to achieve their shared, ultimate goal...to make it to the FHSAA state volleyball tournament in November.

Article by Amanda Deck

Fanning added 142 of her own. In fact, Durant’s towering front row is a force to be reckoned with as Kelsey Morton recorded 65 blocks in 2012-13. Robinson and Adkins are also looking to build off their 38 blocks each from the previous season.

And Wade believes the team will live out Apart from her presence at the net, teams their dream to make it to November if they must also watch out for Thompson’s lethal serve, in which 19.1 percent of them can stay healthy and maintain discipline. resulted in aces (29 total) in 2012-13.

“In order for us to have a successful In addition, service errors were virtually season, to overcome challenges, we have nonexistent with the Cougars last year, as to overcome ourselves, focus solely on the 97.5 percent of serves (989 attempts) were things we can control on the court,” said hit over the net and in-bounds.

Wade.

Apart from district matchups, Durant What will also set Durant apart from the has also scheduled two invitational competition is the dirty taste left in their tournaments this year, including the mouths after a disappointing conclusion to last season during the district semi-finals.

Up two sets against Wharton, the Cougars lost the next three to knock them out of district, regional, and state title contention.

Ten players from the 2012-13 squad are returning for another go-round.

That particular goal is not unreachable, which the Cougars proved in 2002. In fact, that team defeated the East Lake High School (Tarpon Springs) Eagles two games to one to take home the 5A state championship. Durant has also won two other 5A state titles (1999 and 2000) giving them a total of three Florida state championship trophies in the school’s 18-year existence. They’ve also been state runner-ups twice (1996 4A, 2007 6A).

Dropping down to 7A this season, Durant will no longer have to worry about facing Head Coach Brittany Wilson Wade Wharton—or Plant. In fact, their District remembers Durant’s last state 7 schedule shouldn’t be as challenging as championship win well. In fact, she was a they’ll face much smaller schools twice part of the powerhouse squad her entire each this year—Plant City, Strawberry roster wants to mimic, especially the Crest, Tampa Bay Tech, East Bay, and seniors.

Brandon.

Academy of the Holy Names Varsity Invitational on Friday, September 6 where they faced many tougher, stronger 8A opponents. They’ll also compete at the HCC High School Invitational Tournament on September 20 and 21.

“The HCC tournament will have two of our regional competitors in it, so that tournament will be a must-win for us,” said Wade.

Durant High School has had much success on the volleyball court throughout the school’s relatively short history. However, it has been six years since the Cougars have tasted state tournament action. Wade believes this is the year the drought will end…and with the immense amount of talent on the team roster, it should.

“Our five seniors want it,” said Wade.

Wade believes the regular season schedule will allow the team to build confidence Wade knows her seniors will always be in preparation for FHSAA tournament ready for action this season, so she’ll action. be counting on juniors and returning letterwinners Madison Adkins, Annie Good luck to all Durant’s district 7 foes Quinn, Jasmine Shamberger, Lindsey in stopping the dominant duo of outside Robinson, and Rachel Rice to step up and hitters Thompson and Fanning. Thompson have standout years. led the team with 295 kills last year, while

The Durant High School Varsity Volleyball Team is looking forward to a successful season and was ranked 4th among all Tampa Bay area high schools in the Bright House Networks preseason poll, making them our September Team of the Month. Photo courtesy of Coach Wade

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

83

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SENIORS OF THE MONTH ERICKA LOTT

By Ashlyn Yarbrough

F

rom the pageant stage to the soccer field, Ericka Lott is a beautiful, well-rounded 17-year-old Plant City High School Senior.

of top ten scorers for high school soccer in the state. She was named 1st Team All County and All Conference for the last two years. As a club soccer player for the Brandon Flames, Ericka was selected as a member of the 2010 State Ericka comes from a loving and generous Olympic Development Team. Ericka has also family. Her parents, Rick and Dianna Lott, played volleyball for PCHS for the last three are significantly involved in our community, years. with Mr. Lott serving as a city commissioner.

Ericka is the only girl in a household of three Despite a busy academic, athletic, and boys: Trent (19), Chase (15), and Rex (12). extracurricular schedule, Ericka finds time to give back to the community through many Ericka’s academic excellence is evident with service projects. She formed “Plant a GPA of 5.4171. She is ranked 34th in her City Cares” to gather and donate Senior Class. She is dual-enrolled at HCC items for a local orphanage, and and takes honors and AP classes. Next fall, also worked with “Team Santa” Ericka aspires to attend UCF and major in to raise money to support the Advertisement.

Plant City Food Bank.

In addition to excelling in the classroom, Ericka dominates on the soccer field and volleyball court! Playing Forward for Plant City High School’s Varsity Soccer Team all four years, Ericka was named 2013 Offensive MVP in High School Soccer. She broke the goal-scoring record in 2012, and made the list

Ericka is currently the Florida Strawberry Festival’s First Maid and the 2012 PCHS Cover Girl. This scholar athlete has a huge heart and is a great role model for her community.

JAMES ORSO FAVORITES Book: Lord of the Flies Hobbies: Running, Hanging out with friends, Watching TV Store: Amazon Band/Artist: Imagine Dragons Song: Demons Movie: Pirates of the Caribbean TV Show: Man vs. Food Food: Pizza Quote: “I go to McDonalds every day, but I don’t eat much!”

Restaurant: McDonalds Hang Out Spot in Plant City: Walden Lake Sports Team: New York Jets

FAVORITES School Subject: Math Book: Hunger Games Hobbies: Soccer Store: Windsor Band/Artist: Luke Bryan Song: “Keep The Girl” Jason Aldean Movie: Elf TV Show: Bachelorette Food: Seafood Quote: “Let your smile change the world, but never let the world change your smile.”

Restaurant: Outback Hangout Spot in Plant City: Movies or Friend’s houses Sports Team: Tampa Bay Bucs

V

By Gresham Stephens

olunteering in the community, running cross country, and maintaining an outstanding grade point average are just a few of the things that set Senior of the Month James Orso apart from the rest!

Council. James has attended many leadership conferences, and in the summer of 2013, he participated in the Florida American Legion Boys State Leadership Program, representing Plant City High School. Boys from all over the state were brought to Tallahassee to create their own government. James was chosen to be the Mayor of Polk City, a County Commissioner, and a Senate member. This role helped him see how politics might play into his future.

James is the son of Andrew and Lori Orso. He has achieved a 5.9 GPA, and is ranked 7th in his class—that’s the top 1 percent! James plans to attend the University of Florida in the fall of next year and major in Industrial Aside from leadership, James is an avid runner Engineering. and enjoys participating in both cross country and Throughout high track and field. He volunteers in the community by school, James has working at the Plant City Recreation Department, had many leadership The United Food Bank, and volunteering at St. opportunities. He is Clement Catholic Church. James has achieved a a member of the Jr. place on the Academic Honor Roll throughout high Civitan Club, where school, and was inducted into the National Honor he serves as the Society in the 9th grade. vice president. He also serves on the It’s easy to see that James Orso has been involved School Advisory in our community, his school, and committed Council and to academic achievement during his high school the Plant City career. He is great fit for Plant City High School’s High School Senior of the Month!

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EXTRA » DEREK MAUL

LOOKING AT CLOUDS

FROM BOTH SIDES Column by Derek Maul

Likewise, the only way to understand despair, or evil, or fear, or disillusionment is in terms of distance from peace, or goodness, or love, or assurance. Sometimes all that is needed to counter the negative is to make whatever decisions are necessary to put ourselves in better proximity to the light.

I like the way the “place yourselves in proximity to the light” idea is expressed in the New Testament passage from Ephesians 5. “Be imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love, as Christ loved us.”

The best way to imitate God is, simply, to spend more time in the presence of God and to live the Gospel of Love out loud, with commitment and enthusiasm. If we do that with faithfulness and with regularity e imitators of God, as beloved we can become, quite literally, a part of the children, and live in love, as Christ light. loved us. (Ephesians 5:1-2)

B

One of the things I already miss about West Central Florida is the sky; it’s always big, beautiful, and vibrant with color. I most especially enjoy those late afternoon/early evening summer thunderstorms.

THE ANSWER IS JESUS:

This is the same principle the apostle Paul was talking about when he wrote that, “We all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which The week when we left town for North comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit” (2 Carolina was a great example. Rebekah Corinthians 3:18). and I had just finished one more positive but heart-rending goodbye dinner, and I The Message (Bible paraphrase) uses the glanced out over the Carrabba’s parking lot following language: “Nothing between to see a new bank of dark clouds envelop the us and God, our faces shining with the sky to the west. But I could tell that some of brightness of his face. And so we are the clouds were glowing on the far side; in transfigured much like the Messiah, our fact they were visibly edged with light. lives gradually becoming brighter and more beautiful as God enters our lives and we It doesn’t matter how dark the clouds are, become like him.” you know that somewhere on the other side the light is brighter still.

The cure for the darkness is God. The cure for the world’s darkness is us—that would be you, and me, and every child of God— spending more time in the presence of Jesus, I appreciate the way clouds help to give so that we can become vehicles of his kind definition and add clarity to the light. of healing, recreating, regenerative light.

There’s so much more depth and interest The message of light and life is always the than when the sky is simply a oneright answer—and we can be such a great dimensional wash of brilliance and blue. message, too.

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DEFINITION:

Even darkness, of course, has to be defined In love, and because of love—Derek in terms of light. Dark is nothing more than the absence of light; dark doesn’t have Sign up to read Derek Maul daily at derekmaul. any positive value of its own—it only exists wordpress.com. inasmuch as the light is hidden.

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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EXTRA » CANDY’S CORNER

CANDY’S CORNER Column by Candy Owens

GoGo boots, and Ked tennis shoes. The shoes for boys were loafers, Dingo boots, sandals, and tennis shoes. Boys haircuts were neat and orderly with the “just out of the barber shop” look. Girls wore their hair long or cut off short in a Pixie haircut.

Their hair was adorned with hairbands, yarn ribbons, and barrettes.

S

chool days, school days, dear old “Golden Rule” days, reading and writing and “rithmatic” taught to the tune of a hickory stick. I was a girl in Calico and you were a barefoot boy. Girls in Calico and barefoot boys, Hey…wait a minute and hold the phone, a new state of the art push button phone.

Back when I entered the first grade at Jackson Elementary in 1968, our world as we know it today was in a much different place. Our President was Lyndon B. Johnson, our Vice-President was Hubert H. Humphrey, the cost of a new home was $26,000.00, a first-class postage stamp was 5 cents, a gallon of gas was 34 cents, a dozen eggs cost 53 cents, and a gallon of milk was $1.07.

The year 1968 was a turning point in American history—for our nation and its people. A year of vivid colors, startling sounds, and searing images. A year full of turbulent events that changed America forever. From the assassinations of Robert F. Kennedy and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to the Vietnam War, pop culture and free love, civil rights and women’s rights. Yes, 1968 was a year that rocked our country.

Elementary school girls of 1968 showed their fashionable side with bright pinks and yellows along with dramatic pleats in their dresses and bold florals, stripes, and polka dots. Puffy sleeves, long bow collars, and tent dresses were popular along with jumpers, pant dresses, and turtleneck tops.

Elementary school boys of 1968 wore button down shirts, mock turtleneck zipups, and trousers with a single pleat. The shoes for girls were penny loafers, sandals,

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Our school day began with the school bell ringing at 8 a.m. and followed with the tardy bell at 8:05 a.m. Our teacher called the roll and then we stood as a class with our hands over our hearts and recited the Pledge of Allegiance and closed with a moment of silent prayer. Our school would have recess or what we called “break” around 10 a.m. for about fifteen minutes. In that time we would go outside and chat with our friends and enjoy a chilled carton of milk along with a piece of fruit or whatever you brought from home. I always tried to avoid bringing bananas because every time I got mine peeled, someone would be horsing around and knock it in the dirt.

matching glass thermos filled with KoolAid, Tang, Nestle’s Quick, or Iced Tea. The thermos was held in place by a wire swing arm. You would also find a sandwich made up of something like peanut butter and jelly, bologna or ham and cheese and would be accompanied by a piece of fruit, a tin can of Snack Pack pudding, a Little Debbie snack cake, a small bag of chips, and if you were real lucky your mother packed a new and special treat made by Pillsbury called a Space Food Stick. It was a long Tootsie Roll looking stick packaged in a yellow foil wrapper in honor of the space program.

Supposedly, the astronauts ate them as a great source of protein while up in space.

When lunch was over we went back to our classrooms and worked hard on our assignments until 2:15 p.m. when the school bell rang. Our teachers would dismiss us to our school busses or waiting parents. The school bus that I was assigned to was #357 driven by Mrs. Faitha Schwenderman who we affectionately called “Granny” and who remained my bus driver until I graduated When break was over we would head back from high school in 1980. to our classroom and work until time for lunch. Lunchtime aside from break time The principal of our school was Ms. Bennie was my favorite time of the school day. You Sampley. Several of the teachers at Jackson could buy a lunch ticket for 35 cents and School that year were Irma Herring, Dot a milk ticket for 5 cents. Our lunchroom Knox, Betty Shearin, Jean Fulford, Shirley manager was Mrs. Cotton and she along Surrency, Judy Gleaton Connell, Martha with her staff made the best Beef-a-roni, Smith, Myra Weldon, Betty Daniels, yeast rolls, and peanut butter cookies that Martha Willis, Ravenell Taylor, Andrea you ever put in your mouth. Bringing your Hill, and Martha Phillips. Our School lunch to school was also very popular back Librarian was Mrs. Johnnye Charlow. then. Most kids carried a metal lunch box adorned with their favorite T.V. show. Once I was home from my 30-minute bus You would see boys carrying lunch boxes ride, I would come in the house and turn with Gentle Ben, Lost in Space, Gilligan’s on the T.V. and grab a snack. Back in those Island, Land of the Giants, Mission days there was no cable television, you had Impossible, Hogan’s Hero’s, Get Smart, channels 3, 8, 10, 13, and 44. Channel Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea, Lassie, 44 required rabbit ears on top of your Snoopy, Huckleberry Hound, Astronauts, television set to get good reception. In our Bonanza, Daniel Boone, and Batman. house it took two people to make channel Girls carried lunch boxes with Family 44 happen. One person went outside and Affair, Laugh-In, The Banana Splits, The turned the antenna pole that was attached Archies, Junior Nurse, Disneyland, The to your roof while one person stood in front Brady Bunch, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, of the television set and banged on the Julia, Mary Poppins, The Monkees, The window when the picture came in clear.

Flintstones, The Jetsons, The Flying Nun, Barbie, Campus Queen, It’s about Time, Out of all the television programs that I and Dr. Doolittle to name a few. watched as a child through the 1960s and 1970s, my all time favorite had to be Dark Inside our lunch boxes you would find a Shadows. If I did not have a Girl Scout

meeting or dance lessons after school then I was across the street at Kimberle and David Edison’s house every Monday through Friday by 3:45 p.m. because their parents, Robert and Doris Edison, had a great big color T.V. set and Mrs. Edison never missed an episode. I can remember playing with Kimberle and David when Mrs. Edison would yell out: “Come on y’all, it’s getting ready to start and it’s Friday so somebody is probably gonna get bit!” Kimberle, David, and I would run to their family room and watch with bated breath as the creepy theme song started. I was so scared when I watched that program that I do not think that I sat down once during the entire episode. When the program was over at 4:30 p.m., I had to go straight home and do homework and chores before my parents got home from work. I was so afraid after watching Dark Shadows that I ran home as fast as I could; in fact, I ran so fast that I got to my front door before the Edison’s door shut. That’s how scared I was.

Dark Shadows was an American gothic soap opera that originally aired weekdays at 4 p.m. on the ABC television network from June 27, 1966 to April 2, 1971. The show was created by Dan Curtis and featured a vampire by the name of Barnabus Collins who was played by Jonathan Frid along with werewolves, zombies, witches, warlocks, time travel, and a parallel universe. Some of my favorite characters were Elizabeth Collins played by Joan Bennett, Maggie Evans played by Kathryn Leigh Scott, Willie Loomis played by John Karlen, Dr. Julia Hoffman played by Grayson Hall, Anglique Collins played by Lara Parker, Quentin Collins played by David Selby, Daphne Harridge played by Kate Jackson and of course Barnabus Collins.

Back in 1968, our world as we knew it was so much simpler. We, as families, ate meals at the table together, we played together, we prayed together, and we talked to each other. Our families gathered together around the television set and watched as the Astronauts orbited the moon. We had no idea what the future held for us and for our nation. It is now 45 years later and the world, the people in it, and our technology is completely different, but you know what?

I wouldn’t change a thing. p.s. To the person that invented the flipphone, Capt. Kirk, Bones, Scotty, Sueloo, Mr. Spock, and the rest of the crew of the Starship Enterprise had those phones back in 1968…..so what took you so long, dude?

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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EXTRA » ARTIST OF THE MONTH

MAKING A MARK THAT GOES

DEEPER THAN SKIN DEEP

CASPER GEIST

S

kin is the body’s natural layer of clothing, and just as with fashion, people accessorize it with art and the latest trends. As a result, skin has become the canvas upon which people express their individuality.

As this article is being written, many people are already flocking to Plant City, some coming from hours away, in search of one certain tattoo artist, Casper Geist.

Casper has just completed the opening of Plant City’s only tattoo parlor, Dixie Station Tattoo, which is located at 606 E. Baker Street. What is it about Casper that has people coming from near and far? It is because as a tattoo artist, Casper has a passion for creating pure art on skin.

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Upon entering Dixie Station Tattoo, do not expect to find a single tattoo book or picture. Instead Casper chooses to create from an idea or subject matter that is presented from the person who wants ink.

From that idea, Casper uses his rich and creative imagination to create an original and one-of-a-kind design, the likes to never be found or replicated anywhere. With the

Article by Heather Davis

design in mind, Casper will then spend hours using sharpies to freehand the outline and design of the tattoo upon the person’s body.

In the course of meeting Casper, I had the opportunity to meet several of his loyal repeat clients who all shared the same feeling and expression that, for them, Casper was the only one who they would ever let touch them with ink. One even expressed how they were so confident in Casper’s artistic ability that they would allow him to tattoo whatever he creates, knowing that they will fall in love with it. It is evident that once a tattoo is complete, Casper’s clients feel that not only do they have a beautiful, original piece of art on their skin, they also feel that they have established a relationship that will last a lifetime.

With skin as a canvas, Casper has been able to tattoo deeper than the skin—reaching down into the very soul or essence of a person. To view more of Casper Geist’s work or to contact him, you may visit him on Facebook at facebook.com/caspertattoo or email him at casper@caspertattoo.com.

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Casper Geist begins each tattoo by drawing it out on the skin with Sharpies. Photo by Heather Davis

A half-done tattoo by Casper Geist, owner of Plant City’s first tattoo parlor.

Photo by Heather Davis

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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EXTRA » AUTO REVIEW

RIGID REDESIGN

2014 SIERRA MAKES A BOLD STATEMENT Review by Brian West

T

he 2014 GMC Sierra has arrived.

Unfortunately, the new redesign is getting mixed reviews. Some think the lines are too rigid, while others love it.

If anything, GMC evolved the Sierra in much the same way that the competition has evolved. I’m not sure if this shows innovation on their part, if just trying to remain competitive, or it’s just coincidence.

For now, I’ll go with the latter.

sure what the design intention was, but the first thing I think of is some kind of handson controls for a cheesy video game. To say I’m disappointed is an understatement.

Truck owners expect a couple of things: plenty of power when needed for hauling and towing, and (at least some owners) fuel efficiency. Under the hood, GMC provides their EcoTec3 5.3L V8, which has the best overall fuel economy for a full-sized pickup.

While this is true, we are more than 13 years into the 21st century. Can’t we do better than this? Geese! The 5.3L delivers 355hp and class-leading towing of 11,500lbs. A 4.3L V6 is also available. The fuel efficiency is a little better here (8/24mpg), but you sacrifice 50hp and lots of performance.

GMC says they will offer a 6.2L V8 in the fall. Get out your wallet. The only thing you may not be able to pass is a gas station.

The exterior is most noticeable. I was looking for something softer with a hood sloping toward the front—much like some renderings I’d seen earlier this year. The reality is a rigid, in-your-face front end that is anything but aerodynamic. So much for fuel economy (16/23mpg). Oh, that’s right.

This is a truck. Fuel economy isn’t supposed to be important in a truck. Yeah, right! I do like the badging. For years, GMC placed their badge on the sides and the front or back, depending on the model year. The One thing holds true for the Sierra. The 2014 includes center mounted badging on ride. If you’ve ever driven a GMC truck, you the front and rear, and it looks good. know that they handle great and have a very smooth ride. There’s no compromise here The interior gets a sweeping redesign. There for the 2014. If anything, the handling and isn’t a noticeable change in the seating. The ride are just getting better. There’s plenty of biggest changes are with the dash and center room, especially in the crew cab. You can console. The dash is most noticeable. The easily seat a family of 5 comfortably. gauges have been completely rearranged and resized. The water temperature, oil pressure, If you don’t like the 2014 Sierra, the 2013 fuel and battery gauges all receive the same model is still available, but that won’t last size and design, while being centered above much longer. Maybe a softer redesigned and between the tachometer—located in dash will be available in the 2014 model with the lower left corner (where it should be) the higher trim level Denali. Traditionally, and the speedometer is located in the lower the Denali has a completely different dash right. This is a nice arrangement and easy design. It hasn’t been released yet, but I to check with a quick glance. But the center have my fingers crossed. of the dash is another story. I’m not quite

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EXTRA » WANDA’S WORDS

WANDA’S WORDS

OF WISDOM FALL FOODS EDITION Column by Wanda “Lewis” Anderson

220 W Brandon Blvd 813-490-7800 SIGNS - PRINTING - APPAREL

YOUTH SPORTS

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T-SHIRTS S T R I H S T A E SW APPAREL SCHOOL

CORPORATFEESTIVALS EVENTS FUFNUN

DDRRAAISISEERRS

As you slice the onion, the bread will keep your eyes from tearing up. To eliminate the smell from your hands, take a stainless steel utensil and hold it under cool, running water for at least 10 seconds. This also works for getting garlic smell off your hands.

I often use baking soda to keep my refrigerator smelling clean, but if you run out you can use coffee. Just pour dry coffee grounds in a small plastic container and love the fall weather; it’s a time to bring punch holes in the top. Then place it in the out my favorite soup and chili recipes. refrigerator. It will absorb the odors.

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that leftover veggies and meats make the If you have leftover broth you can freeze it best soups. And since we’re on the topic in ice cube trays for future casseroles and of soups, if you accidentally over salt your sauces. After it’s frozen, I place the cubes soup, simply drop in a peeled potato. The in freezer bags so when I need broth it’s potato absorbs the salt for a quick fix. Be readily available. This works great for sure and remove the potato before serving. leftover wine, too.

I

It seems like celery goes limp so fast, so here’s a few tips to keep your celery firm.

Wrap your celery in foil or store it in a container of water. Just be sure and change the water often to keep the celery fresh.

Ice cream is always a favorite around my house and kids of all ages love ice cream in a sugar cone. To eliminate the ice cream from dripping out the bottom of the sugar cone place a miniature marshmallow in the bottom then add ice cream. When you get Time to talk about onions…cutting them to the bottom, you’ll have an extra added up usually results in your eyes watering treat. and smelly hands. But not anymore! When cutting your onion, place a small square of Until next time relax, enjoy and be bread and slide it onto the blade carefully. thankful…

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93

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::

LOCATIONS IN PLANT CITY WINTER HAVEN :: BARTOW

::

RIVERVIEW

D & E » RECIPE OF THE MONTH

THE SECOND BEST

CRAB CAKE EVER

RECIPE OF THE MONTH Recipe by Gail Jones

Y

ears ago when we owned a restaurant in San Diego, I learned some very interesting, and occasionally difficult lessons about food.

1) You can’t please everyone.

2) Do not claim that your version of a classic is “The best ever!”

3) NEVER, EVER, make a comparison to “Mom’s recipe.”

4) Oh, and wear comfortable shoes no matter how cute those new, pointy-toed pumps are.

chicken, or tweek the coleslaw of someone’s youth. I remember one particular wellheeled lady who waited in line on a busy Friday night with her husband.

When I greeted them at the door and took their last name she said softly and with great reverence “I hope you know what to do with a crab cake.”

“As a matter of fact,” I answered feeling confident, “we have an excellent crab cake.

It’s not traditional, but loaded with flavor, Ours was a popular little café that and it’s one of our best sellers.” combined the Southern food of my youth with the Southwestern tastes I was exposed She wrinkled up her little nose and said “I to in later years. We mish-mashed recipes am from Maryland, and we have been out from my mother’s Junior League and here for 20 years and can’t find anyone who church fundraiser cookbooks with some can do it right.” of the more assertive seasonings featured on the menus many of the local chefs were “Well,” I backed off a little on the featuring. “New Southwestern Cuisine” and confidence, “it won’t be like your Mama “Asian Fusion,” a trend that was tossing made, but maybe it can be second best.”

Asian ingredients in with everything from home-style Italian to Mexican street food, I was busy with the weekend crowd, but when the Maryland couple left, I went to were rampantly popular. greet them and walk them to the door.

For the most part, we were well-received, but occasionally our willingness to reinvent “It wasn’t right,” the wife announced as her the classics brought us face to face with a husband trailed along, silently behind her. rabid purist who felt that our kitchen was “All you people gunk it up too much. We the anti-Christ of all things culinarily won’t be back!” And with that she stormed sacred. You do not out past the 30 or so patrons waiting in line mess with for a table and leaving me slack-jawed and Mom’s fried stunned in her wake.

“I said it wouldn’t be like your Mama’s,” was all I could whisper.

Second Bes t Crab Cakes

1 pound lump crab meat (picked and clean) 1/2 stick butter 1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped 1/2 onion, finely chopped 1 cup mayonnaise 3 cloves garlic, minced 1/3 cup minced gherkins 1 teaspoon dry thyme Dash of hot sauce, lemon juice, rice 1 teaspoon dry basil wine vinegar and Worcestershire. salt and pepper Remaining chopped vegetables and juice 1 teaspoon lemon parsley 1 teaspoon Worces tershire sauce Dash of hot sauce 1/2 cup of parsley minced 1 egg beaten and mixed with ½ cup mayonn aise 1 cup loosely packed white bread without crusts soaked in

Tartar Sauce

milk to cover, drained and pureed

Melt butter. Add ½ of minced vegetables, salt, pepper and dried seasonings. Sautee on medium low for 5 minutes .

Add crabmeat, lemon juice, Worces tershire , and hot sauce.

Stir to combine and turn mixture into a large bowl.

Add ½ minced parsley, egg mixture and pureed bread. Form into approxim ately 4-inch cakes and set on wax paper in refrigerator to cool.

Meanwhile, mix tartar sauce ingredients and set aside.

Heat equal parts butter and oil in a skillet and sauté crab cakes until golden brown.

Approximately 2.5 minutes per side.

Serve with tartar sauce driz z led on top.

Now in our defense, our crab cakes were delicious and flavorful, but traditional, in any sense of the word, they were not. Plus they had about sixty ingredients including a few dabs of a hot sauce that we made from scratch. Most people loved them, but as you now know, some people take the classics very seriously.

In an effort to have an alternate crab cake that was a bit more conventional, but also retained some of the sass from our restaurant recipe, I developed the following.

If you are a crab cake aficionado, it may not be the best ever…but maybe second best.

It may not be like your Mama’s, but these will surely be the second best crab cakes you’ve ever had.

Photo by Gail Jones FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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» DINING GUIDE

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Call in or come in, your always welcome at Chili’s.

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LINDA’S CRAB SHACK

“G

et Your Crabs and Beer!” If you are looking for a place where seafood or southern cuisine in a casual dining atmosphere come together, Linda’s Crab Shack is the place.

Linda’s offers a variety of options at a decent price. Choose from deviled crab, crab cakes, steamed or fried shrimp and clams, fried grouper, crawfish or one of their un-fish alternatives -- chicken, BBQ pork, ribs, and steak. There are a wide variety of sides and enjoy a slice of homemade cake. Lunch is served until 3 p.m.

Now accepting Credit Cards.

DOWNTOWN PLANT CITY 200 E. REYNOLDS ST. PLANT CITY, FL 33563 813-754-0492

OLDE TOWN PIZZERIA

I

f you love deep-dish pizza, Olde Town Pizzeria is the only place around to find it. The cheesy Chicago-style pizza is a popular item on the menu, as well as the Award Winning Strawberry Walnut Salad and thin crust pizzas. In addition, they have an array of delicious pastas, salads and sandwiches to satisfy all taste buds. This family owned and operated restaurant is a Plant City favorite for those who love high quality food and friendly service.

3011 JAMES L REDMAN PARKWAY PLANT CITY, FL 33566 (813) 752-5800 • WWW.OLDETOWNPIZZERIA.COM

PLANT CITY HOMETOWN BUFFET

P

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

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

1914 JAMES L REDMAN PARKWAY PLANT CITY, FL 33563 813-754-4488

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D & E » DINING PROFILE

BEST CUBAN SANDWICHES

IN PLANT CITY

In addition, the sandwich is best when grilled in a press with crust slightly crispy and cheese melted.

So according to Miami, Tampa dirtied the original recipe when Genoa salami was added to the mix. Many believe this was when Sicilian immigrants began living side-by-side the Spanish and Cuban community in Ybor City. They say a Tampa Cuban is just a “variation” of the original.

To each his own.

But whether you prefer salami or not, the Cuban is still a mouthwatering choice for satisfying lunch, and can actually tell a lot about the history of our area. And since Plant City is so close to the “Cuban Sandwich Profile by Amanda Deck Capital,” residents can get an authentic taste WE ALSO RECOMMEND CUBAN ew Orleans is famous for its po’ boy, Philadelphia for its cheesesteak. And of Havana every day as most area delis offer SANDWICHES FROM: Hillsborough County’s claim to fame—the Cuban sandwich. In fact, in 2012, the the Cuban.

City of Tampa named it their signature sandwich—which actually caused quite DAIRY QUEEN a stir in Miami, where South Floridians claim their version is as close to the authentic as FOCUS Magazine chose a few area 1902 W. Reynolds St., establishments serving up the best Cubans one can get.

Plant City around. They may not follow South Florida’s These critics claim that “true” Cuban sandwiches are made with glazed ham, roast pork, recipe step-by-step, but they are all delicious Swiss cheese, yellow mustard, and thin-sliced dill pickle on lightly buttered Cuban bread. and each have their own special touch. Read NORMA’S YBOR CITY CUBAN what makes each Cuban sandwich unique, SANDWICH SHOP and then go try them all for yourself ! And maybe pair one up with a cup of Spanish 1305 E. Baker St., Plant City bean soup. You won’t regret it.

N

BROOKLYN BRIDGE DELI 1309 S. Collins St., Plant City Open daily for breakfast and lunch, the Brooklyn Bridge’s standout sandwich has to be the Cuban. And what makes it stand out is how the meat is piled on. From fresh salami, ham, and pork, this massive sandwich will satisfy even the largest appetite. Add lettuce and tomato to your traditional Cuban for even extra flavor.

RICK’S CUSTOM MEATS 10252 SR 39 South, Lithia This family owned meat market also boasts a deli counter were they serve up homemade banana pudding, old fashioned sodas, and some of the best Cuban sandwiches around made with fresh bread delivered straight from Ybor City daily. We love Rick Shirley’s Cuban for its delicious honey butter spread, added right before it’s pressed, giving it a unique sweet flavor.

STRAWBERRY HUT 1505 N. Wheeler St., Plant City Many sandwich shops serve a large 9-inch Cuban, or a half-sandwich sized at 4.5 inches, but at Strawberry Hut,their signature Cuban sandwich measures 12 inches for a large, 6 inches for a half. In addition, their sandwich is always fresh with hand picked tomatoes and meats sliced daily. This family owned business cares greatly about customers’ overall experience which includes taste, value, freshness, and convenience, which has allowed FOCUS readers to vote their Cuban the “Best in Plant City” for five straight years.

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

97

D & E » KEEL AND CURLEY

KEEL & CURLEY WINERY

their exceptional live entertainment. This happens on Friday and Saturday nights from 7-11 p.m. in the form of varied (but seasoned) country, rock, and cover bands.

Article by Taylor Thomas The bands will wrap up at 11, but the bars music stars such as Miranda Lambert, will stay open until midnight.

Keith Urban, and Luke Bryan. On the 14th of September, the 28th of September, To top it all off, the setup of K&C is and the 19th of October, respectively, these nothing short of homely and stunning. tickets will be given away in 2 pairs courtesy Nicely finished bars, a wide-open lobby, of WQYK 99.5. In order to be entered into well-trimmed bushes, and a nice porch the drawing you simply have to show up on-looking a quaint pond makes this a to Keel & Curley’s from 7-8 p.m. on those popular place for wedding ceremonies, nights.

THE GOLDEN CORK CONTEST & CONCERT RAFFLES

I

banquets, graduation parties, or even high school reunions. It’s really a treat in of itself to indulge in such a well-groomed environment, making the nights more fruitful and the days more peaceful.

f you’ve ever come across the childhood classic, “Willy Wonka and the Keel & Curley’s will be also be hosting Chocolate Factory,” then you’ll know the Biertober Event on October 19 all day. exactly what Keel & Curley means when This will include local homebrewers, food they say that they’re holding their very own vendors, and loads of live entertainment Golden Cork Contest. To celebrate their throughout the day. It’ll happen before you exponential growth from 2003 as a small know it, so be ready to go check it out! family-owned winery into Florida’s largest blueberry winery, the 1 millionth bottle of wine in addition to nine others will possess To add to the mix of raffles, free things, and the coveted golden cork. fun times, every Friday and Saturday night, On October 10, the ten winners will Keel & Curley will be offering surveys to compete for an all-expenses paid vacation to their customers to be entered in yet another visit the renowned wineries of Napa Valley drawing to receive a free bottle of wine. near San Francisco, California. The grand Their wines come in sweet, semi-sweet prize winner will get to tour the facilities (semi-dry), and dry variations. All of which on a steam train, and the other nine lucky have a unique blend of spirits that remind contestants will receive complementary its patrons why Keel & Curley is praised for K&C products coupled with free tours and their standard in blueberries. tastings!

But don’t allow all of the shiny prizes Aside from the Golden Cork Contest, Keel and valuable tickets to be the only reason Keel and Curley Winery is the place to be on weekends as the venue offers great & Curley will be doing a separate raffle for you show up on Friday and Saturday live entertainment...plus it’s an awesome place to gather with friends for a fun tickets to concerts to big-name country nights. K&C has been long-known for time. Photo by Cricket Larson

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MIKE’S TIRE & WHEEL Tires Wheels Truck Accessories Lift Kits 622 South Collins Street Plant City, FL 33563 813-764-8473 Mike Spiker | Larry Jessee

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THE HERBAN COWBOY Herbal Products & Gifts

C A Salon Of Excellence Designed To Meet Your Tailored Looks Downtown Lee Building 110 E. Reynolds St., Ste. 400 Plant City, FL 33563

813-759-1023

114 W. Reynolds St. Plant City, Florida 33563 Historic Downtown 813-704-1376 www.aherbancowboy.com FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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can’t miss

event FIRST ANNUAL ALL-ALUMNI REUNION

In March 2013, one of Plant City’s finest, Kenny Simmons, was suddenly taken away from us. Very thoughtful, smart, and kind-hearted, Kenny was a standout football player, wrestler, and track star for Plant City High School. Kenny’s death shook the community, especially those he graduated with. It also sparked Amanda Sluga to plan an All-Alumni Reunion for PCHS grads.

“Kenny’s death really got me thinking how close I used to be with a lot of people back home, and now I barely speak to people from home,” said Sluga. “I came up with the idea to have an all-alumni reunion because no matter what class, we were all friends.

Multiple PCHS alumni partnered with Sluga to help organize the event, including David Hernandez, Robbie Jones, Ashleigh Ingalls, Angela Witt, Sharon Ardelean, Marlo Clark, Wayne Ward, Jamie Bennett, and Jarred Buttram. The group has several activities planned for the weekend of Friday, October 11 to Sunday, October 13.

Funds will also be collected for an Alumni Memorial Scholarship, an idea started by PCHS Head Football Coach Wayne Ward, to be awarded to a high school senior.

So come out and reconnect with your former high school classmates! And in the meantime, remember those who have passed.

“Some have left us too early in life and never really were able to leave their mark on the world,” said Sluga. “Some left leaving great marks on the world. Our small town, our school, has delievered multiple talents across the spectrums of life...whether athletes, writers, musicians, and more.”

SCHEDULE

FRIDAY: 5:30 p.m. | Memorial revealing at Plant City High School 7 p.m. | Tampa Bay Tech v. Plant City High School Football Homecoming Game 9 p.m. | Dinner at Beef O’ Bradys (2418 James L. Redman Pkwy) SATURDAY: 10 a.m. | Football and kids games at Mike Sansone Park 12 p.m. | Lunch at Mike Sansone Park 7 p.m. | Dinner and Alumni Homecoming Party at Cuzzin’s Bar (111 S. Palmer St.) SUNDAY: 9 a.m. | Breakfast at Fred’s Market

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SEPTEMBER 2013 focusplantcity.com

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MONDAY

Meditation 101 Plant City Chamber of Commerce Community Room | 6 to 8 p.m.

106 N. Evers St. Hosted by The Room’s Jennifer Closshey, learn how to reduce your stress with the simple daily practice of meditation. Backed by extensive research, Closshey will teach participants the science behind stress and its effect on the body, and how meditation can relieve that stress. Participants will also try out several meditation methods. Space is limited to 30 participants and cost is $20 per person.

For more information, contact theroompc@gmail.com.

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THURSDAY

Diamonds and Denim Florida Strawberry Festival Expo Hall | 6:30 to 10 p.m.

303 Lemon St, Plant City Break out your best denim for the South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation’s largest fundraiser of the year. Event includes dinner, dancing, and drawings for prizes, including a $4,500 diamond ring. Tickets are available for $50 and advance reservations are required.

Tickets can be purchased through September 20.

For more information, contact 813-757-8478.

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SATURDAY

Blueberry Stomp Mud Run Keel and Curley Winery | 8:30 a.m.

5210 W. Thonotosassa Rd. Three-mile off-road running race involves loads of obstacles and plenty of mud. All proceeds will benefit the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Fund. Register online at keelandcurley. com/blueberrystompmudrun/registration For more information, email info@ keelandcurleywinery.com or call 813-752-9100.

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Punt, Pass & Kick Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex | 8:30 a.m.

2402 E. Cherry St. This free, family-fun event is sanctioned by the NFL and is for boys and girls ages 6-15. Winners of this local contest will then compete in a regional/sectional competition. Register at the event or before the event at plantcitygov.com. A copy of your child’s birth certificate is required in order to compete.

For more information, contact Danny Smith at 813659-4200 ext. 4313 or dsmith@plantcitygov.com.

Carefest A Christ-centered community service day where churches, businesses, organizations, and cities around the nation will demonstrate God’s love in practical ways. Register to complete several projects throughout town including painting homes, yardwork, and more.

For more information, contact Dr. Dan Morris at 813-752-6740.

GardenFest McCall Park | 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

100 North Collins St. The Plant City Garden Club and The Plant City Downtown Merchants and Business Association have teamed up to host this year’s GardenFest. Add a new dimension to your garden by adding beautiful plants and unique artwork. The Plant City Daybreak Rotary will be in attendance to satisfy your hunger pangs and venders will be on hand to answer any questions about gardening and related fields.

For more information, contact Joey at 813-707-9833.

OCTOBER

SATURDAY

Fam Fest ‘13 John R. Trinkle Center | 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

1206 North Park Road Join New Life Church for a fun-filled day featuring balloon animals, a water zone, door prizes, carnival games, a DJ, bounce houses, food trucks, a magic show, live bands, and more. Tickets are free for ages 3 and under, $5 for ages 4 though 12, and $10 for 13 and up.

Bike Fest Historic Downtown Plant City | 5 to 9 p.m.

For more information contact the Chamber of Commerce 813.754.3707

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Youth Fishing Derby Gordon Food Service Drive | 8:30 a.m.

The Plant City Parks and Recreation Department continues their 17th season of Youth Fishing Derbies.

Thanks to Landshark Charters, the event is free for children ages 5 through 15 and will occur at the Plant City Stadium back parking lot off Gordon Food Service Dr. Registration will begin at 7:30 a.m., the competition will take place from 8:30 to 11 a.m., with an awards ceremony at 11:15 a.m. Pre-registration is accepted at the Recreation Administration offices.

Contact Deborah Haldane at dhaldane@plantcitygov. com or 813-659-4200 ext. 4302 for more information.

SATURDAY

Florida Opry 1914 Plant City High School Community Center | 6 to 9 p.m.

605 N. Collins Street

Established in 1996, the Florida Opry continues to provide outstanding entertainment and a stompinggood time. The latest edition of the Opry will feature Master of Ceremonies Randy Scott, The Little Girl & the Dreadful Snakes, and Clogging Connection.

Tickets are $12 per person and $5 for students. A pasta dinner will be served at 4:45 p.m. costing $8 per person and $4 for students. Make reservations by calling 813-757-9226.

For more information, email info@thefloridaopry.com or visit thefloridaopry.org.

Fox Squirrel Corn Maze Opening Day Futch Family Farm 3002 Charlie Taylor Rd. Mark the calendar for this fall favorite. The maze will be open each Saturday and Sunday from October 12 to November 3, with Fridays open for groups of 20 or more and field trips. Farm will also feature a butterfly exhibit, pony rides, pumpkin patch, hay rides, and food.

Prices are $10 for adults and $9 for children 3 through 17. Children under 3 are free. Acceptable forms of payment are cash and Visa/MasterCard.

For more information, visit foxsquirrelcornmaze.com or email futchentertainment@comcast.net.

THAT’S LAUGHABLE

Created by Calvin R. and Jackie Mathews

THAT’S LAUGHABLE

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That’s Laughable Very Punny

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FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

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T A M E O O Z E R E N E Y E S E S

FOCUSOBITUARIES Howard Holmes “Sonny” Barnes, 76, of Plant City, formerly of Tampa, died August 12 at Sun City Center Hospice House.

New York, she was the daughter of the late Samuel Amodio and Dorothy Storm Amodio.

She was the wife of the late John Stafford, Sr.

Barnes was born January 29, 1937 in Mt Holly, New Jersey.

Online condolences may be made to the family at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Surviving are sons, John Jr., Scott, Glen, Jeffrey, and Timothy Stafford; daughters, Jackie Goode and Ellen Manning; brother, Danny Amodio; nine grandchildren; and five great grandchildren.

Carol Lilly Stafford, 72, died August 23 at Lakeland Regional Medical Center.

Carol was a homemaker who enjoyed fishing, woodcrafting, and was a locksmith and animal trainer.

Born March 10, 1941 in Goshen,

A Funeral service was held at 11 a.m. on

t Cuban Voted Best City in Plan

NEW EXTENDED HOURS!

STRAWBERRY HUT IS GIVING BACK TO YOU!

d Gi ft Cards an Part y Tr ay s Available

Strawberry Hut is celebrating their 20th Anniversary & would like to thank their customers for their loyalty over the past 20 years by giving away prizes to every 20th customer for an Entire Week. Sept. 23rd - Sept. 28th.

Remembering our local businesses by giving away a party tray each day to a local business by random drawing. Come nominate your business

WIN

Sandwiches, Shakes, Soup, Salads, Combos and more

We are open from 6:30a.m - 6:30p.m Mon - Sat.

1505 N. Wheeler St. Plant City, FL 33563

813-752-3779

You can View our Menu online at www.Thestrawberryhut.com Try our Homade Spanish Bean Soup, Fresh Chef and Greek Salads

Notice portions shrinking while prices increase?

NOT HERE.

We’re still making it like we always have since 1993

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SEPTEMBER 2013 focusplantcity.com

WE WON’T ASK YOU TO SUPER SIZE YOUR COMBO CAUSE IT ALREADY IS.

Monday, September 2 at Haught Funeral Home Chapel. Online condolences may be made to the family at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Zane Blanton, 89 of Plant City died September 9, 2013. He was the son of the late Bernard and Eva Cone Blanton.

He is survived by his beloved wife Barbara Cundiff Blanton.

Other survivors include his daughters Cheryl Bachelor, Donna Van Slambrook, Stacy O’Donovan and step children Diane Fleming, Vicky Conner, Kim Wilhjelm, Jim Roark, 12 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Miriam Scott.

He was preceded in death by siblings, Frances Trammell, and Bernard and Kenneth Blanton.

The Blanton farm was one of the oldest farms in Hillsborough County. Zane was a WWII U.S. Army Air Corp Veteran and a dedicated member of the Plant City Elks Lodge, holding several officer positions.

Zane was a member and Past President of the Plant City Noontime Rotary Club, where he was recognized locally and nationally for 52 years of perfect attendance as a Rotarian. He was also a member of The Cattleman’s Association, the Republican Party and The First United Methodist Church of Plant City.

Zane had been a rancher, a citrus grower and developer and was an avid big game hunter.

A Memorial Service was held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, September 14. Donations may be made to Plant City Noontime Rotary or The Plant City Elks Lodge.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haughtfuneralhome.com.

C ool the Heartburn

C.R. Hall, MD, General and Bariatric Surgeon

Discover how robotic surgery can relieve your pain Relieve the pain from severe heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and hiatal hernia through robotic surgery.

Highly-trained and specialized surgeon Dr. C.R. Hall has performed more than 100 robotic-assisted surgeries to treat these conditions at South Florida Baptist Hospital.

South Florida Baptist Hospital continues to blaze a trail by providing you with unique robotic services to aid in quicker healing, shorter hospital stays, reduced pain and a faster return to a healthy lifestyle.

For more information or to schedule an appointment:

(813) 708-1312 | SouthFloridaBaptistRobotics.org 301 N. Alexander St., Plant City

BC1301912-0613

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY SEPTEMBER 2013

103

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.

FUEL SAVER PACKAGE

$

29.95

includes lube oil filter, rotate 4 tires, multipoint inspection, battery check

Must present coupon at time of write up. May not be used with any other coupon or store special.

Shop supplies and tax extra. Most cars and light trucks excludes diesels. Expires 09/30/2013

BEAT ALL TIRE PRICES

ON NAME BRAND TIRES free alignment check with tire purchase

Must present coupon at time of write up. May not be used with any other coupon or store special.

Most cars and light trucks. Expires 09/30/2013

813-757-6429 2000 East Baker Street Plant City, FL 33563 Service Hours Mon-Fri 7am-7pm Sat 7am-3pm

WILD CARD SPECIAL

10% OFF ANY SERVICE UP TO $150

Must present coupon at time of write up. May not be used with any other coupon or store special. Expires 09/30/2013

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