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CONTENTS October 2016 | Volume 15 Issue 10 | focusplantcity.com

14 Local What fun folks have had recently at events such as Fashion, Feathers & Fur, the 20th annual Diamonds and Denim, the Mystery Dinner Theater, Going Gray for the Gude Family, and the outdoor Strawberry Pokeball Food Truck Crawl. Read all about these and more inside this issue.

35 Feature: Dancing With The Locals

Meet the performing couples in this year’s 9th annual Dancing with the Locals event, scheduled for Veterans Day, November 11 at the Trinkle Center. Organized by the Noonday Rotary Club, this fundraiser is a highlight of the Plant City’s fall social season. Tickets are still available. View the story for details.

48 Business: Creative Flower Designs by Glenn

When customers walk into Creative Flower Designs by Glenn, they are greeted instantly with a smile, along with the smell of fresh flowers. Behind the counter, more often than not, is Glenn Mathias, the man who started it all. Making flower arrangements was something Glenn enjoyed doing as a hobby. It wasn’t until a friend dared him to open a flower shop, that it became a career.

66 Dining: Strawberry Hut

Strawberry Hut, the 300-square-foot walk-up sandwich shop owned by the Wilson family, has been part Plant City’s landscape since 1993. Locals deem it popular for its quick service, outdoor dining, and tasty food made with fresh, high quality ingredients. Its Cuban sandwiches have been voted number one in Plant City eight years straight. Dining local definitely has its benefits.

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LETTER FROM THE

PUBLISHER Last month we survived Hermine and this month we missed Matthew. Living in Central Florida does have its advantages when it comes to coastal storms. One more reason to be grateful for Plant City’s location, for sure.

One way to display that gratitude is to help those who were affected, here along Florida’s East Coast and countries like Haiti, too. When a hurricane’s wallop takes lives and destroys homes, especially in places already impoverished, it makes our hearts hurt. If we can’t go physically to help, we can definitely send donations. And I’m sure many of our readers have already done that.

When people hurt, we all suffer. Thanks for your efforts to alleviate the impact of devastation.

The civic action clubs in Plant City put hands, feet and wallets to work year around for projects that help folks right here. One of the year’s most exciting fundraisers is hosted this month by the Plant City Rotary Club. Ten couples have been preparing the routines guests will watch them perform at the Dancing with the Locals event on November 11 at the Trinkle Center. We hope you’ll enjoy reading a little backstory on the dancers who are making choreographed steps to raise funds for the club’s community service work.

With a full calendar of fun things to do and the cooler temperatures this Fall, we hope your family can enjoy a few of the many festivals, Halloween events, and day trips in our area.

Life can be truly extraordinary in our very special town.

As always, thanks for your support and for shopping local.

Warmest Regards, Mike Floyd

CREDITS Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus?

Contact us for more information.

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

Plant City, FL 33563

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.

Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990

Publisher Mike Floyd mike@floydpublications.com

www.focusplantcity.com

Managing Editor Cheryl Johnston cjohnston@floydpublications.com

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

Art Director Anthony Sassano asassano@floydpublications.com

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

Staff Writers Cheryl Johnston | Heather Davis Sherrie Mueller | Barbara Routen

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

Distribution Tony DeVane

Contributors Gil Gott | Jo-An Lusk | Nate Davis Candy Owens | Natalie Sweet | Mike Goodwine Kristen Campbell | Wanda Anderson | Samantha Black Taylor Williams | Garrett Strobel

Advertisers warrant and represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. Focus Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made

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IT’S NOT SPOOKY AT UNCLE G’S, ITS ALL TREATS AND NO TRICKS. Full grooming and boarding services available for dogs and cats by our groomer, Terri Pardo We offer pet boarding in a state of the art facility with television for the pets to watch.

We are located on 5 acres of land.

Call For Pricing on Boarding Or Grooming.

UNCLE G’S BED & BISCUIT 1821 Stephens Ln, Dover, FL 33527 Phone: (813) 689-6725 unclegsbedandbiscuit.com

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Congressman Dennis Ross joined locals for a Grand Opening and Chamber Ribbon Cutting of the Plant City Republicans Victory Office on October 12, 2016, the same day Presidential Candidate Donald Trump spoke at the Lakeland Linder Regional Airport. Visit the Victory Office at 1007 E. Reynolds Street.

Meet school board member Melissa Snively and Hillsborough County Schools Superintendent Jeff Eakins on Monday, October 17, at Plant City High School for updates and information on initiatives and issues affecting our schools. Your input makes a difference!

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, please salute our own Jodi Smith Stevens, the Honorary Survivor for Plant City’s Relay for Life 2017.

Visit http://bit.ly/ BayCareInOurHands and “like” or “love” it. Cancer affects everyone and it’s “In Our Hands” to find a cure.

Plant City High School will host the community’s first ever Color Run on 11-5-16. All ages are welcome. Proceeds benefit the PCHS Class of 2017. Visit raidercolorrun.com or contact Lori Yarbrough at 813-478-3886 for info.

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REDEMPTION Fighting racism with songs of love and equality On the day before Election Day, November 7, 2016, Florida reggae-rockers “Redemption” will release their first single. “Color Blind” is a reminder to all, of the urgency of coming together as one nation, one people and choosing to love our neighbor as we love our self.

Frontman Cliff Brown says, “We want to be the voice of our generation for speaking life, hope, and unity into this ever dividing world.”

A number of Plant City families headed to Lakeland Linder Airport on October 12 when Presidential Candidate (R) Donald Trump encouraged a large turnout of supporters.

The Strawberry Pokeball Food Truck Crawl offered a fun evening on September 30 with Pokemon chasing, chalk art, and a wide variety of intriguing foods to satisfy every tastebud. Thanks for the great support, Plant City.

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on ice. Needless to say, it was a crowd favorite! Other delicacies on the menu included but not limited to: Brie with raspberry, Kale salad, fruit salad, carved prime rib, pork ribs, green beans and cauliflower with cheese. A dessert station featured assorted cakes, pies and root beer floats. The menu was well designed to please anyone’s palette.

Reverend Gary Shepherd, the hospital’s newly appointed Chaplain, offered the invocation and Bruce Rodwell, Foundation Board member, welcomed the crowd. Karen Kerr, South Florida Baptist Hospital President, thanked the large crowd for their support of the hospital.

The guests enjoyed browsing and bidding in the silent auction with 123 items donated by local businesses

and individuals from the Plant City community. Many guests contributed for a chance to win a Diamond tennis bracelet donated by Brown’s Jewelers.

Bob Maxey was the lucky recipient.

50/50 raffle tickets were sold through the evening and garnered $1,725 for the hospital and $1,725 for the winning ticket holder, Randy Valdez.

All in attendance seemed to enjoy the casual evening spent with friends and family. Judy Zink, a first time attendee, summed it up well. “This is a very impressive turnout. The event is entertaining and the food is great.”

For information on future events hosted by the South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation, call Jana Butler, 813-757-1277.

Diamonds & Denim Chair, Kim McElveen (center) with Vice Chairs, Marsha Passmore and Debi Peacock worked hard to assure the event was a success.

Marsha is proudly displaying a diamond pendant donated by Julie Weintraub of the Gold and Diamond Source to be part of the Live Auction.

20TH ANNUAL DIAMONDS & DENIM ATTRACTS A RECORD CROWD

BY SHERRIE MUELLER

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elebrating Twenty Years” was the theme of the 2016 Diamonds & Denim gala sponsored by the South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation. More than 700 people attended the casual event which only improves and grows with each passing year.

Radiology and Imaging Specialists was the presenting sponsor. In addition to a record crowd, the event raised over $100,000 in Sponsorships alone, according to Sylvia Knox, President of the Foundation and event committee member.

Kim McElveen chaired the gala with the help of Vice Chairs, Marsha Passmore and Debi Peacock. The volunteer committee included: Kathy Baskin, Carmen Brownlee, Frank Cummings, Jean Ann Davenport, David Galloway, Lisa Galloway, Sylvia knox, Gail Lyons, Cynthia Morselli, Brett Mueller, Glenda 16

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Bobby and Sally Raburn have attended all 20 of the Diamonds & Denim events.

Raulerson, Bruce Rodwell, Margaret Rodwell, Rhett Rollyson, Tina Sikes, Phil Waldron, Faye Wetherington and Lori Yarbrough. Jana Butler is the Executive Director of the South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation.

This fun-filled event was held at the Florida Strawberry Festival Charlie Grimes Family Agricultural Center. Jack Peacock, a Foundation Board member commented, “I am amazed at how the committee transformed an Agricultural Center into an elegant dining facility.”

This spacious accommodation allowed for station after station of delicious food created by Executive Chef Michael Ambrosino and his staff of 911 Catering.

One popular food station featured a beautiful Ice Sculpture depicting a large diamond, western boots and a medallion with the “20th Anniversary” inscribed.

This particular station was heaped with delicious, large boiled shrimp sitting

Featured on a food station with mounds of boiled shrimp was an ice sculpture depicting the 20th Anniversary theme with carved boots and a diamond.

Smart Farmers & Country Home Owners Who borrowed from Farm Credit received a personal visit from a United States President!

Farm Credit of Central Florida puts its profits in its Member/Borrower’s pockets in the form of a patronage refund payment which can significantly lower the cost of funds to the member.

$100,000 loan at a 4.5% interest rate receiving a12% patronage would reduce the rate of interest to 3.96%.

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Ask your Farm Credit loan officer about the details of a patronage refund and our diverse loan products.

866.824.5626 | FarmCreditCFL.com Loans for land, homes & country living

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Committee members for the Florida Strawberry Festival’s 2017 Youth Parade met recently to plan the event. Pictured L-R seated are: Verna McKelvin (secretary), Carole Wright (treasurer), Davy Miles, (VP) and Pat Pogue.

(President) Standing L-R are David Wolf, Carter Metts, Johanna Wetherington and Louise McClelland. Members not pictured include: Sharon Moody, Taylor Clark, Gresham Stephens and Lamar Lockhart. Advisory board members are Michael Cameron and Louise McClelland.

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ISABELLA TOURAY Disney World Magic Kingdom National TV Commercial.

KEVIN WINN Appearing in the Bloodline Netflix Series.

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Jess Anderson FEB16.indd 1

12/31/2015 8:26:27 AM

BY CHERYL JOHNSTON

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Plant City tradition has a fresh twist!

For the past 43 years, a local civic club directed the annual Youth Parade during the Florida Strawberry Festival.

This year, the parade will be presented and sponsored by the newly formed Strawberry Youth Parade, Inc. organization.

Plant City Chamber Ambassador Pat Pogue will serve as the group’s president, which seems only natural since she’s been involved for more than 15 years and knows the drill inside and out. The corporation’s other officers are David Miles, VicePresident; Verna McKelvin, Secretary; and Carole Wright, Treasurer. Board Members include: Dr. Dan Middlebrooks, Sharon Moody, David Wolf, Carter Metts, Gresham Stephens and Taylor Clark.

One of the first acts of business for Strawberry Youth Parade, Inc. was to join the Plant City Chamber of Commerce.

“We agreed that was a must,” explained Pogue. “The Chamber has always been so helpful.”

“The same is true of the Florida Strawberry Festival’s leadership team,” Pogue continued. “Paul Davis has been a

tremendous help to us, and Attorney Danny Coton assisted with our incorporation process.”

The group was recognized and introduced as new members at the Plant City Chamber Contact Breakfast on October 12, 2017.

The Youth Parade is always held the first Saturday of the Florida Strawberry Festival, which is March 4 in 2017. The Festival’s theme is “We’re Playing Your Song,” so parade goers can expect to see plenty of references to all things musical.

Applications for the Youth Grand Marshals have already been sent to the area high school guidance counselors.

Applications are also available online at www.floridastrawberryfestival.com on the Florida Strawberry Festival’s website.

“We are excited about this upcoming 44th annual youth parade,” said Pogue.

“Our board members and volunteers have a passion for young people. This event allows them to shine in the community’s spotlight.

And hopefully, from their leadership, the Strawberry Youth Parade will continue to flourish for many, many years to come.”

L and alligator skulls, and a fan of wild turkey tail feathers.

After an opening prayer, instructors’ Travis White and Glenn Kinman discuss a broad range of hunting topics, from types of camouflage to tree stands and scent blockers.

“If you can see them, they can probably see you,” Kinman tells the class during a brief discussion of potential predators that students need to be aware of when hunting in the field.

Later, White and Kinman explain and demonstrate the different duck and deer calls available to hunters, a session that culminates with laughter after Kinman’s realistic rendition of a squealing hog.

TSM offers three archery classes.

The first is a basic beginner course for students age six to adult; the second is a beginning bowhunter course for students age 12 to adult; the third is a 3D shoot,

held at the First Baptist Church of Durant, which is now in its fifth year.

The organization also hosts a sporting clays event each spring.

Classes range in length from three to four weeks. There is an optional hog hunt at the end of the hunting course.

Costs start at $25, with family discounts available. Equipment is provided for all classes, but there is a limit of 20-25 students. The next round of classes is tentatively slated to begin in January.

TSM is looking for property it can lease for hunting, hunting stands, feeders, hunting equipment, and a tractor and 3-point hitch implements. They are also seeking corporate and family sponsors.

Three levels of sponsorship are available: Bronze, $100; Silver, $300; and Gold, $600.

For more information, visit www. trinitysportsmanministry.com or call 813-389-3678.

Evan Sweat, 8, Joel Bender, 7, and Adalyn Bridwell, 9, take aim under the supervision of instructors Travis White, Michael Perry and Glenn Kinman.

ARCHERS FOR CHRIST “Y

BY STEVE CASON

es!” seven year-old Joel Bender exclaims jubilantly, after his arrow pops a balloon pinned to a target about 10 yards down range.

Bender is one of three students participating in Trinity Sportsman Ministry’s beginning archery class at Countryside Baptist Church in Dover.

He is bookended by Evan Sweat, 8, and Adalyn Bridwell, 9, firing volleys of four arrows each from small compound bows.

Since 2005, about 500 students have attended the non-profit organization’s archery clinics, says founder Dennis Pawlowski, a Plant City police officer.

Pawlowski’s mission: To share the

message of Christ through a quality outdoor experience.

Pawlowski, 45, has been “into archery” since he was 18. “After a 10-year spell of anxiety and depression trying to figure out what God wanted me to do,” he realized the answer was right in front of him. “I always loved to hunt and fish… but now I do it for His glory,” Pawlowski said.

While the beginning archery class is practicing their skills at one end of the gymnasium, the beginning bowhunting class is gathered around tables at the other end for classroom training.

Nearby, there are tables full of hunting equipment and trophies, including deer

Trinity Sportsman Ministry founder Dennis Pawlowski instructs future hunter Sammy Shiver, 11, in the finer points of aiming a bow.

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L Harris, Ilene Chavez, David Davenport, Edwena Haney and Paul Hetrick. Dodie White organized and directed the Theater experience. Also serving on the planning committee were Gail Lyons, Marsha Passmore, Mike Sweet, Natalie Sweet and Paul Hetrick.

An enthusiastic Dodie White, Vice President of Friends and Director of the play explained well the purpose and mission of the event. “The monies raised from this event benefit the library directly.

Proceeds fund summer programs for children and adults, help purchase new technology for the library and funds scholarships for high school students.”

Ms White went on to say, “We are so blessed to have the Bruton Memorial Library in Plant City and we hope we raised enough money to make at least $10,000 in profit for the various programs offered by the library.”

The event was indeed successful with many sponsors and a room full of happy supporters who enjoyed an evening of dining and mystery theater. Congratulations to the Friends organization on your successful contribution to one of our wonderful community hubs -- The Bruton Memorial Library.

Edwena Haney, played Dorothy Brahmin, the God Mother to Artist Claude Rene, comically played by Jon Poppell.

MYSTERY DINNER THEATER ANNUAL FUNDRAISER STARS WOW THE CROWD

BY SHERRIE MUELLER

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he Friends of the Bruton Memorial Library presented a Mystery Dinner Theater event October 1, 2016 at the Trinkle Center at Hillsborough Community College. The event did not disappoint the crowd of more than 200 in attendance at the “starstudded” play and dining occasion.

An art gallery was the scene as guests entered and passed picture after picture of fascinating art. The atmosphere was festive as locals and their guests greeted one another with anticipation of a great meal and “who did it” mystery theater experience for the benefit of the Bruton Memorial Library.

Gail Lyons, President of the Bruton

Memorial Library Friends, welcomed the crowd and Pastor Dan Middlebrooks of Hopewell Baptist Church offered the invocation. Simply Southern Catering provided a delicious served meal consisting of a mixed salad with sugared pecans, filet of beef, chicken breast, broccoli casserole, roasted potatoes and rolls. The dinner was topped off with a choice of Banana Pudding, Bread Pudding or Peach Cobbler.

The stars of the night included “lucky” thirteen talented local Plant City residents. Bringing the stage to life were Ashley Zarecor, Gary Pike, David Galloway, Lisa Galloway, Tom Thoeni, Tim Lovett, Amy Nizamoff, Charles

Local attorney David Galloway and his wife Lisa were part of the cast in “A Menacing Night at the Modern Museum,” sponsored by the Friends of the Bruton Memorial Library.

Plant City residents starred in the play, “A Menacing Night at the Modern Museum.” Pictured L-R are: David Galloway, Lisa Galloway, Charles Harris, Ilene Chavez, Gary Pike, Tim Lovett, Ashley Zarecor, Tom Thoeni, Jon Poppell, Edwena Haney and Amy Nizamoff.

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participants included 4 Lucky Dogs Pet Rescue, Florida Parrot Rescue, Pennies for Pockets, Second Chance Boxer Rescue and Friends, and Vets for Pets.

Adorable adoptable dogs, cats and birds modeled their pet fashions and wowed the crowd! As they meandered through the setting, guests decked out in pirate attire enjoyed hors d’ oeuvres, entertainment, and a memory-capturing selfie booth.

Attendees also thoroughly enjoyed the “Sweet Tweets” dessert selection prepared by local celebrity chefs, who participated on behalf of each specific rescue group. The Florida Strawberry Growers Association and 3C’s Catering

of Brandon were two of those whipping up divine creations to tempt the taste buds. Guests “voted” with cash to select their favorites, which was another way they could show support.

To learn more about quality pet care, the local animal-related charities, or how to help with next year’s fundraiser, contact Timberlane Pet Hospital and Resort at 1704 Walden Village Court or phone 813-754-7387.

You can also visit www.timberlanevet. com or on Facebook. Other photos can be viewed on the Fashion, Feathers and Fur page on Facebook or at FashionFeathersAndFur.com.

Allie, presented by Second Chance Friends Rescue, is a favorite of photographer Nicole Parianous.

6TH ANNUAL

FASHION, FEATHERS, & FUR

ABC Action News emcee Wayne Shattuck (center) had a blast with Baby the Dancing Cockatoo, courtesy of Florida Parrot Rescue.

BENEFITS LOCAL ANIMAL RESCUE CHARITIES

BY CHERYL JOHNSTON PHOTOS BY NICOLE PARIANOUS OF PAWS AND PALS PET PHOTOGRAPHY

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hanks to generous community support, the 6th Annual Fashion, Feathers & Fur fundraiser on September 17, 2016 was a huge success.

Wayne Shattuck from ABC Action News emceed the evening that benefits local animal rescue groups. He encouraged attendees at the National Guard Armory to bid generously on the more than 60 baskets of prizes for the live and silent auctions because the monies raised provide care and medical treatment for pets who need good homes.

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Timberlane Pet Hospital and Resort established this popular fundraiser six years ago when Dr. Christy Layton and practice manager Adrienne Swisher realized what local rescue groups needed most in their fostering operations – money!

In the prior five years, the Fashion, Feathers and Fur outreach raised over $130,000 total for the cause. The goal for this year’s event was $30,000, which was the amount raised in 2015.

The rescue groups benefiting and involved are ones the Timberlane staff knows personally. This year’s

Meet Roxy, a 5-year-old Aussie/Sheltie mix, all decked out in his pirate scarf by 4 Lucky Dogs Rescue.

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Loetscher Auto Parts, LLC MOVED!

BRING THIS AD IN AND RECEIVE

10% OFF Expires 11/30/2016

SELL YOUR USED or JUNK CAR TODAY

3302 SYDNEY ROAD • PLANT CITY LOETSCHERAUTO.COM OCTOBER 2016 focusplantcity.com

PROFESSOR DODAD SHARES SCIENCE, FUN & FAITH

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813.752.3770 24

FALL-O-CHRIST KIDZ CRUSADE

BY CHERYL JOHNSTON

NEW LOCATION 3302 SYDNEY ROAD PLANT CITY

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ne Accord Church welcomes children in grades K-5 and their families to its first ever Fall-OWeen Kidz Crusade on November 5 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Of the free event, Co-Pastor Fred Harrold shared, “We wanted to offer Plant City families a little something different for their children this fall. Our Kidz Crusade will feature Professor DoDad presenting his Super Heroes program.”

Professor DoDad is Darren Casteel, the CEO of DoDad’s Lab in Clermont, Florida. The Professional Children’s Entertainer, Educator and Kidmin specialist for more than 20 years has worked across denominational lines in over 30 states. He shares his love for children and families in more than 200 shows a year. Visit online at

www.dodadslab.com.

Harrold continued, “The ‘Amazing Science’ demonstrations he presents for churches help kids learn through experiments, storytelling, puppets, comedy and science how they can place their faith and trust in the one and only super hero, Jesus Christ.”

The church hopes to have 100 children or more at their 2203 W. Baker Street location (behind Taco Bell). Light refreshments will be served prior to the Crusade, so arrive early. Each family will receive a child-friendly follow-up Gospel tract.

For more information, visit oneaccordpc.org or call Fred Harrold at 813-390-7830.

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1003 S. Collins St. Plant City ralphlfeolasr@allstate.com

Hardwood BBQ co-owner Layla Drawdy (L) loves nothing better than helping friends in need--and Joey Gude’s wife, Lindsey (R), knows that truth firsthand.

Friends are friends forever, when the Lord’s the Lord of them.

GUDE FAMILY FUNDRAISER

CASINO NIGHT A HUGE SUCCESS

BY CHERYL JOHNSTON

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he Going Gray for the Gude Family fundraiser brought out the best in friends and even strangers who supported a great cause at Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill on September 25, 2016.

Organizer Layla Drawdy shared: “Words can’t explain how grateful and thankful we all are for such generosity from our sponsors, friends, and friends we’ve just met. To see our local community continue to come together to help the Gude family in this desperate time is a vision of God.” “We all had such a good time last night,” she continued. “THANK YOU so much to our entire Hardwood BBQ crew

and event volunteers, everyone who hosted and all who donated money, items, and services. God saw it all.”

Please continue to keep the Gude family in your prayers because they need all the help they can get.

Donations are still needed. For information on where to send checks payable to Lindsey Gude, please contact Layla Drawdy through the Hardwood BBQ page on Facebook. ~And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works~ Hebrews 10:24

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Teens enjoyed helping out at the Strawberry Pokeball Food Truck Crawl.

STRAWBERRY POKÉBALL FOOD TRUCK CRAWL COMMUNITY GATHERS TO “CATCH ‘EM ALL”

BY CHERYL JOHNSTON

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rowds of hungry folks enjoyed a very special September 30 evening during the first Plant City Main Street Food Truck Rally.

Plant City Recreation and Parks Department joined with Plant City’s Main Street organization to welcome families to the creatively-named “Strawberry Pokèball Food Truck Rally” in McCall Park downtown. The event combined two current American trends: the Japanese game sensation and meals on wheels.

With its outdoor murals, monuments and historic buildings, Plant City entices Pokéstops and makes the pursuit to “Catch ‘Em All” even more fascinating.

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Recreation Supervisor Maggie Moroña, who organized the Planteen’s Pokèmon League, was thrilled to have such a perfect venue where young people could play the games in a safe environment. “We are quite pleased with the success,” Morona reported. “Scanner activity and social media feedback demonstrated about 150 individuals playing Pokèmon Go that evening around the Food Truck Crawl area, with about 40 competing for prizes.”

This kickoff event resulted in a large attendance increase at the Planteen league’s two weekly afternoon gatherings.

At Strawberry Pokèball alone, 17 new

participants signed up to join players of the trading card game, online game or Pokémon GO smartphone app users who meet Tuesdays and Wednesdays weekly from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m at the recreation center at 301 N. Dort Street. Youth leaders are working to raise their level of play so they can host tournaments in the near future.

For the young folks and local businesses at the food truck rally, the Pokèmon trainer competition brought excitement. Lure Modules were set to draw both Trainers and Pokèmon.

Competitors received handouts listing shops with Pokèmon Go swag and

downtown merchants joined in by dropping lures and offering special prizes.

The younger trainers enjoyed other games and decorating the park’s sidewalks with colored chalk.

And the winners are: Strongest Trainer- Dilan Horne, a.ka. “datBoss28Won,” caught a Pokèmon with combat points of 940! His prizes: Bulbasaur Plush and $10 Plant City Recreation and Parks (PCRPD) gift certificate.

Pokèmon Master – Jackie Crenshaw, “Jackiecrelkf,” caught a total of 36 Pokèmon for a Charmander Plush and $10 PCRPD gift certificate.

Gym Leader – Abigail Spivey, a.k.a “HarryPotterLuna,” held the first slot at the Train Wheel Gazebo Gym at 8pm on September 29, 2016 (official Pokèmon Central clock time). Her prizes: Squirtle Plush and $25 Neumeisters Candy Shoppe gift certificate.

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Families and friends they haven’t met yet enjoyed the oh so good food and conversation in Plant City’s historic downtown.

Officer Priscilla Clark helps Plant City’s Community Services Director, Karen Collins, learn to spot Pokemon at the recent Strawberry Pokeball Food Truck Crawl.

The Strawberry Pokeball Food Truck Craze welcomed families to enjoy their food truck choices in the shade of McCall Park.

Shopping local is a win-win situation for everyone. Plant City Main Street small business leaders are dedicated to maintaining, preserving and revitalizing downtown. By encouraging commercial traffic and patronage, the tax base within the Community Redevelopment Area increases. In turn, those revenues assist with redevelopment incentives, housing assistance and infrastructure improvements.

The crowds encouraged Zee Brown, Main Street’s promotion team member and Top Shelf Sports Bar and Grill owner. She shared, “An influx of people for downtown events always helps bring

your business top of mind to customers, an important factor in a crowded market.”

Patricia Rogers, President of Plant City Main Street and Par Interiors owner, hopes these efforts “define our downtown as filled with opportunities to explore history and enjoy culturally related happenings.” Rogers simply wants people “to come enjoy food and fun” and help “make Plant City fresh.”

Mark those calendars now! Plant City Main Street will host a Food Truck Festival monthly on the final Friday. Your suggestions for future events are always welcome.

Arema Brosnatch enjoyed introducing Patricia Rogers to her blue & gold McCaw at the recent Strawberry Pokeball Food Truck Rally.

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GFWC 4TH ANNUAL BBQ CHICKEN FUNDRAISER

BY CHERYL JOHNSTON

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he Greater Federation of Women’s Club in Plant City invites everyone in the community to enjoy a delicious barbecue meal-to-go on Thursday, October 20.

The 4th annual BBQ Chicken Dinner is catered by Johnson Barbeque. Tickets are advance sales only and available from any club member or by calling GFWC Plant City fundraising committee chairwoman Patricia Tillman.

The “dinner-to-go” fundraiser will benefit four students with scholarships.

One student each from Plant City, Durant, and Strawberry Crest high schools will be selected from among the applications submitted through guidance counselors to the club’s education committee. The fourth scholarship is granted to any woman who is returning to school and the workforce.

GFWC fundraising committee chairwoman Patricia Tillman said, “We are reaching out so the public will be informed

because our club helps so many efforts in the community. We’ve had committees of members soliciting businesses to purchase the dinner tickets at $12 each in multiple quantities. Our goal this year is to sell 1,000 tickets.” She added, “We usually have a good turnout.”

In addition to its annual Honoring Women Veterans event at Veterans Memorial Park in Plant City, the club also organizes a Diva Day shopping adventure [11-19-16], a fashion show [April 2017] and a sale featuring pecans and walnuts [must be purchased by November 1].

Open to all women, the club meets on the second Tuesdays monthly at the GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City clubhouse, 1110 N. Wheeler Street in Plant City, FL 33563-2436. To learn more about the great work this active community service club does in Plant City, please visit GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City on Facebook by calling (813) 481-0419.

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The Train Depot became a plant haven during the GardenFest and Etc. event.

6TH ANNUAL GARDENFEST AND ETC.

VINTAGE HOME & GARDEN MARKET

BY CHERYL JOHNSTON | PHOTO BY DARCY STOTTLEMEYER

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he 6th annual GardenFest drew a steady stream of enthusiasts and shoppers on September 24th in beautiful Downtown Plant City.

The Garden Club partnered again this year with Plant City Main Street and the downtown merchants to feature approximately 60 vendors displaying plants, garden art, gardening accessories, antiques, arts, crafts and food.

Visitors and locals perused the displays and didn’t let the Florida heat deter them from enjoying the time downtown. If they needed a little relief from the temperatures, they just shopped indoors.

Diane Peyton was invited by friend Sally James. “We both enjoyed the craft items,” she offered. “And then because it was so hot, we just visited the nearby shops.”

She added, “These events certainly make you aware of the surrounding stores.”

Sally agreed, “I liked the crafts and purchased a carved out gourd with a pumpkin face on it and also a shirt from Denise Young’s booth. I enjoyed walking around downtown. I don’t do it often enough.”

The Garden Club’s next event is its annual flower show, held this year in conjunction with Pioneer Heritage Day on Saturday, November 12 from 9:00 A.M. till 3:00 P.M. Be sure to check out their “Can You Did it? Reels & Rhythms of the 60s” display at the Plant City 1914 High School Community Center; 605 N. Collins St. Plant City, Fl.33563. Both events are always free to the public.

Folks are also invited to register for the Fun with Flowers workshop on December 10 at 10:00 a.m at the Walden Lake East Clubhouse, 1304 Teakwood Drive. The $25 fee includes a light lunch and all supplies needed for the holiday arrangement guests will make. All are invited and no experience or membership is required. Just bring scissors. Karen Flaacke, a certified Master flower show Judge and Tampa Bay Garden Club member, will teach the class. Reservations are due by December 1st. Please mail a check to Plant City Garden Club, P.O. Box 3471, Plant City, FL 33566 or call Sally at 813-758-5154 for information.

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ey & Cheryl

By Judy Ron

ey & Cheryl

By Judy Ron

DEBORAH LULEI

Deborah Lulei came to live in Plant City 27 years ago from California by throwing a dart at a map of the Sunshine State. Having lived in Florida as a child, she hoped to move back. Because of her overwhelming love for animals, she desperately wanted to become a veterinarian, but life had other plans.

Although a traumatic brain injury has added challenges to her life, her faith has given her hope.

And eight ferrets fuel her joy. Deborah serves as one of 10 administrators on the “Ferrets Unite” Facebook page, an international group with over 3,000 members.

Although they couldn’t dine in at Fred’s Market Restaurant, the little characters attracted attention from customers during the photo session on the porch.

Share some ferret facts and Introduce us to your friendly fellows.

“My ferrets are all rescues, so without documentation, I’m guessing they’re 1-to-5 years old. PeePie, Raven, Glow, Spark, Adam, Samora (Smore), Monte and Abby live caged in the house, but must play outside the cage for at least four hours daily and sleep 18-20.

They bond fiercely, are very curious, highly intelligent, playful, entertaining, loving, and fearless. Their ‘dance of joy’ looks like bounces

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Johnston

Johnston

on a pogo stick. Ferrets are derived from European polecats domesticated to help hunt rabbits. Their name means “thief ” in Latin and they will steal your stuff, including your heart. As obligate carnivores, they must eat a very high protein diet to survive. Their bodies don’t process plants, sugars, etc., so owners must take special care with their diet.”

“Ferrets are not for everyone, but to me they’re like the best of a kitten and a puppy, with a whole lot more thrown in. Just watch them ‘dooking’ or ‘dancing for joy’ on YouTube and you’ll see. Anyone interested should research thoroughly before buying a kit (baby), because they are high energy and medical care can be expensive. To my knowledge, Dr. Y at Southside Animal Hospital is the only vet in Plant City who treats them. He is excellent.”

How did you develop your talent for art, drawing, and painting?

“I tell people that when I was still in the womb, God slipped me a box of crayons and I started coloring on the walls. I have never had lessons, but my fourth grade teacher was so impressed with a historical mural I’d created, she offered me a full scholarship to a specialized boarding school for young, artistically-gifted children.

I’m fascinated by portrait work and have done that on a commission basis. I enjoy sharing knowledge, so I started an ‘Art from the Heart’ group at church. I never imagined I would be able to return a God-given gift to the world by teaching others.”

What do you appreciate most about Plant City?

“This town is storybook-like to me,” she said. “Although we’ve grown, the atmosphere has never changed, because of the people.

Everybody feels like your neighbor, so willing to talk and be friendly. I would love to have grown up here.”

JIM BARTON On a regular basis, Jimmy Barton hears the phrase, “I know you! After a 37-year career with the Florida Division of Driver’s Licenses, he retired in 2008. But folks still remember the examiner who first certified them to drive.

In 2006, Barton was recognized by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators as an International Driver Examiner Certification (IDEC) Examiner of the Year in the Southeastern U.S. Your family’s local heritage began here in the 1800s, right?

My great-grandfather took advantage of Florida’s free land offer, 160 acres, I think. He had to develop it. At age 13, my grandfather, Walter B. Hunter, saw a pretty little girl from the Gaskin family and said he’d marry her one day. Thirteen years later, he did. Both lived into their 80s. According to her, Walt the trader could leave home with a chicken and come back with a cow.

And about yourself?

In 1965, I graduated from Pinecrest High School’s largest class ever—30 students. At 17, the phosphate mines couldn’t hire me, but Billy Pugh at W.S. Badcock in Mulberry did, for $1.35 an hour. At 18, I started with American Cynamid in Bartow. Then Bill Shiver applied for a state trooper’s job and I applied with the Driver’s License Bureau.

Several years later they called for interviews and it’s been a great career.

I married my sister’s best friend, Brenda, on September 19, 1970, and we have one daughter, Staci Barton. My very brave Brenda died September 17, 2014 from illness, two days before our 44th anniversary.

Our Schnauzers, Corky and Dory, are great company and I’m close with my

sister, Onie Jaques and her husband George.

As Brenda wished, I also spend time with a former co-worker, Lonnie Terry, whose husband died five years ago. Brenda always said, ‘If anything happens to me, Lonnie is the type lady I want you to be with.’

You’ve written some poetry, correct?

Yes, one night I dreamed vividly of heaven. I left my bed, turned on the bathroom light and started writing words racing to my mind. I was just the pen.

Mostly I write when something inspires me.

Did you enjoy being an examiner?

Yes, very much. From 1971 until 1996, I worked in Plant City, except for Tampa the first year. I told folks to relax during their test, to think of me as friend. It was fun to help excited teenagers get their first license.

In 1996, I worked with Jim Connery on the FLOW bus (Florida Licensing on Wheels), from Miami to Pensacola. We took it to hospitals and places where people couldn’t get to a regular licensing office. They appreciated the convenience.

Any advice for our younger readers?

Yes, remember your parents, your friends, and the people you work with. Their influence will help make you a good person.

Give a job your best. See the good in people and they’ll bless your life.

Find more People of Plant City on Facebook. Connecting the community one story at a time. facebook.com/peopleofplantcity Find more People of Plant City on Facebook. Connecting the community one story at a time. facebook.com/peopleofplantcity

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DID YOU KNOW

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EARLY LEADERS OF PLANT CITY AND THE KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS PART I OF 2

BY PLANT CITY PHOTO ARCHIVES AND HISTORY CENTER

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lant City was first chartered in 1885, and as Plant City historian David E. Bailey, Jr., wrote, it was an “instant town.” By 1902 the town had progressed to the point that Philander Allen Merrin, then editor of the Plant City Courier, wrote that “Plant City’s future was assured.” Merrin wrote of the many different businesses in town and said, “Among the lodges were the Knights of Pythias and the Masonic Lodge.”

The Masonic Lodge, Ebenezer Lodge No. 79, was chartered in the Shiloh area in 1876.

From the Courier article we know that the Plant City Lodge of the Knights of Pythias dates back at least to 1902.

Other organizations in Plant City in the early years include the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Patriotic Sons of America, Woodmen of the World, and Modern Woodmen. Later came the Kiwanis, Lions, American Legion, Plant City Woman’s Club, and more.

The Knights of Pythias is a fraternal organization – some refer to it as a secret society – founded in 1864 during the Civil War. The name is derived from the Greek legend of Damon and Pythias, in which Damon offers to be held hostage for four hours so his friend Pythias, who has been wrongly sentenced to death, could visit his family one last time. When Pythias returns

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to face his sentence, King Dionysius is so impressed with their loyalty and trust that he frees both Pythias and Damon.

The letters “FCB” are part of the society’s code and stand for “Friendship, Charity, and Benevolence.” Notable Americans who have been members of the Knights of Pythias include U.S. presidents William McKinley, Warren Harding, and Franklin D. Roosevelt, along with individuals such as Louis Armstrong, William Jennings Bryan, Nelson Rockefeller, Hubert Humphrey, and W. G. Brorein, who founded the Peninsular Telephone Co. in Tampa in 1901 and brought the lines to Plant City in 1902.

In this 1905 photo of the Plant City Lodge of the Knights of Pythias are 28 men, many of whom were in leadership positions in the young town named after railroad magnate Henry Bradley Plant. We were not able to gather much information on some of the men pictured, and if any of our readers has any information or photos please contact us.

We believe the men in this photo are seated in front of the Wells Building built in 1904 at 114 North Collins Street, the third floor of which held the meeting room used by the Knights of Pythias.

The Knights of Pythias members in this photo are (seated) left to right: George

Benjamin Wells (G.B.), John Walworth, Bob Head, D. J. Parks, Samuel Edward Mays (S.E.), John T. Lowe, William Lee Lowry (W.L.), and Charlie Burkstresser; (standing) left to right: Sam Tyner, George Wilson, Charlie Burdette, Dwight Crum, O. D. Pemberton, Henry B. Wordehoff, Dave Hall, Ellis Holloway, Joe Thomas, John A. Barns, John Kennedy, W. V. Griffin, George W. Foster, John Graham, Daniel L. Robinson, Mr. Stevens, Oscar Stone, unidentified, W.A. House, and Sheldon Cornelius Wells (S.C.).

Among those not pictured is Charles Evan Barnes, who was perhaps the photographer.

Let’s start with the man not in the photo – Charles Evan Barnes. A charter member of the Knights of Pythias, Charles Evan Barnes was born in West Virginia in 1875 and moved to Florida about 1896, quickly establishing himself as a business, civic, and political leader. Barnes rose to a major position in the state Republican Party and in 1908 was appointed Postmaster by President Theodore Roosevelt. He was reappointed in1909, and served until being replaced by President Wilson in 1913. (Postmasters in those years were political appointees.)

Barnes was the manager of the Barlow Land Company and was a successful businessman dealing in land development and insurance. He was the only Republican elected to the Plant City Council and was a leader of the Plant City Boosters and Board of Trade. He was married to Mary Ellen “Mamie” Whitehurst Barnes, who served as Postmaster from 1922 to 1934, being appointed by Presidents Harding, Coolidge, and Hoover.

Samuel Edward Mays was a remarkable man in Plant City history. In 1908 the Plant City Courier carried an article that stated “Mr. Mays is the largest individual real estate owner of the city.” Mays was born in Greenville, South Carolina, in 1864, to Professor Samuel Elias Mays and Katherine Mosley Mays. The family moved to Hillsborough County and settled in the Alafia River area in 1876.

From 1882 to 1887 Mays worked as a clerk in the mercantile business of J. M. Boyett in Peru (Riverview), Florida, and moved to Plant City in 1887 where he took charge of C. J. Yates’s general store.

He started his own business in 1892 and launched into merchandising, banking, farming, fruit growing, and real estate.

He was one of the organizers in 1902 of Hillsboro State Bank and in 1907 he helped organize the Bank of Plant City.

Mays was elected to the city council and served from 1907 to 1915. He was a member

of the Plant City Boosters, a director of the Board of Trade, and in 1908 built the largest single brick building in Plant City, later becoming Black’s Department Store. He was instrumental in writing and passing the new city charter of 1927 and was the first mayor under that charter. He continued to serve as a city commissioner until his death in 1932.

George Washington Wells (“G.W.”) was born in Georgia in 1843 and moved to Plant City sometime after his marriage to Mary Jane Drew of Tampa in 1864. Their children were George Benjamin Wells (“G.B.”, 1868), Walter Charles Wells (“W.C.”, 1870), Mary Jane Wells (1873), William Jason Wells (1876), and Sheldon Cornelius Wells (“S.C.”, 1878).

W. C. Wells and father, G. W. Wells, started the Wells hardware and furniture store about 1884. Sheldon Wells ran the S. C. Wells & Co. Pharmacy, but gave that up to join the hardware operation, as did former teacher William Jason Wells. G. B. Wells became an attorney and also provided service to the hardware firm. Mary Jane Wells married Dr. John Clarence Knight.

G. B. Wells had his law office on the second floor of the Wells Building at 114 North Collins Street, just one floor down from the meeting room where the Knights of Pythias met. Interested in civic affairs, G.B. succeeded his father as town clerk in 1900. He was elected mayor and served from 1902 to 1911 in that capacity. He was also elected to the Florida State House of Representatives and served two terms, 190304 and 1905-06.

As were most of the others, G. B. Wells was one of the Plant City Boosters; he was also secretary of the Board of Trade.

After serving as mayor, Wells served as city attorney until his death in 1934. His wife, Veronica Kimsey Wells, from Tennessee, was active in the Woman’s Club and is one of the founders of the Plant City Public Library.

We’ll pick up with the other men in this 1905 Knights of Pythias photo in part II of this story.

Sources: Quintilla Geer Bruton and David E. Bailey, Jr., Plant City; Its Origin and History, 1984; U.S. Federal Census records; Hillsborough County Historic Resources Survey Reports; Ancestry.com; The History of Florida: Past & Present, The Lewis Publishing Co., Vol. III, 1923; Political Graveyard.com; Knights of Pythias websites; oral interview with Mary Barnes Harrell; Plant City Photo Archives and History Center collections, and various Internet sites.

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RIBBON CUTTINGS

The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting on September 19, 2016 for the FL Tropics at the Lakeland Center, 701 West Lime Street, Lakeland. The Florida Tropics are Central Florida’s newest professional soccer team. Beginning this November, the Tropics will be competing at the highest level of professional INDOOR soccer in the country. All of their home games will be played at the Lakeland Center. Stay tuned for more exciting news about our new Florida Tropics!

The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting October 12, 2016 for The Plant City Republican Victory Office, and it is now opened! They welcome anyone that wants to help elect Donald Trump, Marco Rubio and all the Republicans on our 2016 ballot. Judy Wise, PC Republican Victory Office manager, or John L. Pike, Turf Coordinator for the RPOF, will be happy to assist. Yard signs, walk opportunities, phone banking, tee shirts, candidate information is all available.

Visit them at 1007 East Reynolds Street, Plant City, FL, or call 813-716-3715.

Hours are Monday - Friday, 10AM - 7 PM, and Saturdays, 10 AM - 2 PM

Isn’t it beautiful?

Let’s keep it that way!

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Culligan Water of Tampa 2703 Airport Road Plant City, FL 33563 Toll Free (888)440-4542 tampaculligan.com 34

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Dancing Locals with the

By Cheryl Johnston

Now in its 9th year, the Dancing with the Locals fundraising event is a highlight of the Plant City’s fall social season.

MEET THE DANCERS Shaun and Crystal Bryant Kenny Griffin and Kayla Drawdy Dmitry Dvoskin and Dr. Maira Estrada Ivan Grigonov and Beverly Littlejohn Mike Johnston and Nancy Egbert Emily Topper and Paul Kittelstad Jason Turner and Jillian Wilder Chase and Sasha Wetherington Alex Aponte and Claybo Varnum Bryson Keel and Ashlyn Yarbrough

The excitement happens this year on Veterans Day, which is Friday, November 11 at the John R. Trinkle Center. Proceeds will benefit the Noon Rotary Club. Ten couples, who sacrifice time and energy in ten provided dance lessons to prepare for their time in the spotlight, will vie for two awards: Best Dancers and Most Money Raised. Once the performers have been awarded, audience members enjoy a time-honored tradition. They “get up and dance!”

Sponsored by the Plant City Rotary Club, typically about 400 locals purchase the $100 ticket to watch friends, co-workers and family members shake a leg in style. It’s pure entertainment as folks find themselves rooting for their favorite couple.

Plant City’s Rotarian of the Year and club secretary Jodi Stevens is always ready to add your name to the list of dancers for an upcoming year. She shared, “This is such a great night. Each year we continue to grow and have more fun.” Contact Jodi at 813-716-0908 or Plant City Rotary Club members for tickets.

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CRYSTAL & SHAUN Since 2006, Shaun and Crystal Bryant have lived in the Plant City home where they raise their three children; Brody (8), Ava (3) and Kellan (1).

Shaun is the owner and President of Pipe Pros Inc., a local new construction plumbing company serving the surrounding communities. Shaun helps sponsor and coach their son’s Little League baseball teams. Shaun is a Plant City native and attended Plant City High School.

Crystal is the Human Resource Manager for Mosaic Fertilizer, LLC where she has been employed for the last nine years. She attended Durant High School and earned her Bachelor of Business Management degree from the University of Phoenix. Crystal serves the community as a United Way Leadership Giver, a member of Leadership Tampa Bay and as an active member in her church.

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MARIA & DMITRY Dr. Maira Estrada was born and raised in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Before settling down in Tampa she lived in Philadelphia for 4 years where she met her boyfriend and dance partner, Dmitry. As a Florida native she is ecstatic to be back in the gorgeous sunny weather. No more shoveling snow for her! She attended Florida State University and then Temple University for dental school. Nowadays she spends most of her time focusing on her patients as a dentist at Dental Designs of Lakeland. She is passionate about her work and considers herself “lucky to have found a profession she truly loves.”

She is also passionate about giving back to the communities she is a part of and as a new member of Lakeland is eager to start giving back. In the past, she was a recipient of the Capital Medical Society Foundation Board of Governors Award for “Compassion and Dedication to Volunteering.” She was also a frequent volunteer at Boggy Creek Camp in Eustis, Florida, where she worked with children diagnosed with craniofacial disorders and other chronic illnesses. Outside of volunteering, the avid traveler enjoys beach visits and running.

Dmitry Dvoskin was born in Belarus, raised in Philadelphia, and is now a recent transplant to Tampa. He attended Temple University and attained his Masters of Business Administration from St. Joseph’s University. Presently, he works as a credit analyst in Tampa and spends his free time exploring his new hometown, enjoying Florida’s sunny beaches, and cooking. He is very excited to be doing something out of his comfort zone while giving back to the community at the same time. Dmitry has a very fun-loving, spirited personality and is “up for the challenge!” of Dancing with the Locals. His hobbies include fitness, traveling, and playing chess. He admits: “After a lot of persuasion my girlfriend finally convinced me to try something new and join DWTL. I was pretty stubborn at first, but in the end I found myself enjoying our practice sessions and was very impressed with Kevin and the Just Dance crew.

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KAYLA & KENNY Plant City native Kayla Drawdy loves dancing, reading, and playing the piano. As a cheerleader for five years with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, she had the privilege of traveling the world.

These days her two sons, David and Jackson, keep her busy with outdoor activities and the time they all enjoy together with family and friends.

The community-minded Kayla serves currently as an ambassador with the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, through membership as a Plant City Noon Rotarian, and with the Hillsborough Education Board’s “Stock in Children” program. She also leads the Young Adult Bible Study at Faith Assembly of God. Career wise, the former Florida Strawberry Festival Queen works in marketing as a business development officer with Hillsborough Title Company.

She is currently studying for her final test to obtain Title Agent’s license and certification. Membership in the Plant City chapter of Partners in Networking has been most helpful for her in making those all-important people connections.

Kayla is excited to be Dancing with the Locals in its 14th year and fundraising for the Rotary Club. This hometown girl looks forward to a great evening with the generous folks she appreciates so much.

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Plant City native Kenny Griffin attended Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), where he double majored in History and Education before receiving his Masters from the University of South Florida in Educational Leadership. He was a teacher at Tomlin Middle School and Plant City High School for several years before moving on to higher education. Kenny coached track and cross-country and sponsored several clubs and organizations. Now he works in administration at Saint Leo University.

Kenny is a member of Tampa Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. and Plant City FAMU Alumni Chapter. He has chaired and co-chaired several clubs and organizations promoting college readiness and awareness for young African American males.

Kenny’s hobbies include being socially and politically aware, dabbling in art and photography, and beginning to stamp his passport. Kenny’s family is very important to him and members include: parents Ron Griffin Sr. and Elaine Coffee-Griffin, sister Evangelist Cametria Griffin; brother Ron Griffin Jr. (son Ean) and brother Terrance Griffin (sons Terrell and Kayden).

Kenny is excited about participating in Dancing with the Locals because he watches every season of the television show Dancing with the Stars and feels he his has some good moves!

The Golden Rule is Kenny’s motto in life. “If everyone treats everyone how they would like to be treated in all facets of life, the world would be a better place.”

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BEVERLY & IVAN

Beverly Littlejohn is a Greenville, South Carolina, native.

She graduated from the University of South Carolina with a BA degree in English and pursued a career in public relations.

For the past 11 years, she has served as the media relations coordinator for South Florida Baptist Hospital.

Most of Beverly’s dance background is in ballet with a little bit of tap thrown in. That evolved into performing in community theater in Columbia, South Carolina, which she did for about 10 years before moving to Florida to escape the cold.

“I had resumed ballet at the gym I belonged to but about five years ago it was cancelled,” she said. “I had been interested in pursuing ballroom dancing but was a little gun-shy about showing up without a partner. I saw an ad for a physician’s lecture about ‘The Health Benefits of Dance’ at a dance studio so this seemed like a benign way to get my foot in the door. The lecture was cancelled but I stayed for guest night and fell in love.

I have been dancing ever since.”

When she isn’t working or dancing, Beverly is active in her church, St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church in St. Petersburg.

Beverly shared, “I’d like to dedicate this experience to my mother, who is in ill health. She said she lives vicariously through me, so, this is for you, Mom!” Ivan Grigorov is from Bulgaria, Europe. He graduated from Technical University of Sofia with a Master of Science degree in Computer and Electrical Engineering.

He has always loved to fix computers or learn new programs, but the real passion he found in dancing has changed his life.

Presently, he is realizing his dream with the opening of his new Dance Passion Studio, where dancing instruction is affordable for everyone. The St. Petersburg resident’s desire is to “bring more people to the joy of dance.”

Ivan encourages, “I want to dedicate this dance to my students. In all these years, I have learned a lot more from them than they learn from me.”

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NANCY & MIKE For Nancy Egbert, it all started 64 years ago in California when she found herself born into the world with a loving family. She didn’t live in California very long, however, because she’s been a Plant City resident now for 60 years! She attended Bryan Elementary, Tomlin Junior High, and Plant City High School, where extracurricular activities included swim team, DCT, and skipping school to pick strawberries (Oops… don’t tell Mrs. Wright)! At Tomlin Junior High she entered the school-wide talent show and guess what Nancy did. Yes, she did—she danced the Charleston! And won a silver dollar!

Nancy earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of South Florida and is licensed with the state to practice psychotherapy at the highest level available. She owns and operates Sage-Professional Christian Counseling Center, LLC in Plant City.

She is very proud of her three amazing children, Katrina, Abram, and Ryan as well as her two amazing grandchildren, Kingsley and Tenzin and feels blessed to have them in her life.

Two years ago Nancy’s life changed when she broke her left femur. With emergency surgery she found herself in a situation that demanded a restructure of her life. Taking what life handed her, Nancy learned to turn “lemons into lemonade.” She started recovering at the Plant City YMCA with water aerobics. What a fantastic jump start! As the months passed and realism set in, Nancy needed something more.

To continue the healing process of her leg, the psychotherapist jumped right into dancing. Nancy has been dancing ever since. She is a regular social dancer at the Rhapsody Ballroom in Temple Terrace and at the Star Dust Ballroom in Plant City. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Southern Star Chapter of USA Dance.

Nancy will be turning 65 this November and couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate her birthday than to Dance with the Locals! From a broken leg to “Dancing with the Locals!”

What could be better than that?

Originally from upstate New York, Mike Johnston relocated to Florida after graduating from the State University of New York at Genesco. Following a career in Personnel, Real Estate and as a Brandon area business owner, Mike is now involved with property management and ballroom dancing.

In the early 1990s, Mike and his wife Peggy founded the Southern Star Chapter of USA Dance, located in the Tampa area. This has been a successful chapter involved with charity work for Hospice, Moffitt Cancer Center and The Spring, as well as outreach dance programs to nursing home facilities. Southern Star also has sponsored the Mid- Summer Classic All Amateur Dance Sport Competitions for over 20 years.

For the last 19 years in Plant City, Mike and Peg have provided dancing opportunities for hundreds of locals in eastern Hillsborough County at their monthly Ice Cream Social Dances at the Star Dust Ballroom.

Currently, Mike is a successful ballroom DJ, providing music to over 100 ballroom dance competitions as well as numerous social dances over the past two decades. Mike and Peg have held ballroom dance cruises for 10 years and Mike is also the house DJ for the Rhapsody Ballroom in Temple Terrace.

Mike and Peggy started dancing because of an anniversary cruise and will celebrate their 42nd wedding anniversary this year. Mike is very honored to be a part of the fun and excitement of this year’s Dancing with the Locals in Plant City!

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EMILY & PAUL Emily Topper is a Winter Park native and lifelong Florida resident.

She moved to Plant City in 2015 to accept her current staff writer position with the Plant City Times & Observer. The 23-year-old is a cum laude graduate of Flagler College in St. Augustine, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in communication with an emphasis in journalism. She was named in the top five graduates of her department.

Prior to her work in Plant City, Emily wrote for Orlando Style Magazine, Tampa Style Magazine and Narrow Magazine. In Plant City, she is responsible for covering City Commission meetings, elections, breaking news stories, features, profiles, photo events and all things strawberry-related. In her free time, she often writes for the Observer’s partner, In the Field Magazine.

When she’s not writing (or Netflix-binging), she can usually be found with a camera or cup of coffee in hand. As a Plant City “newbie,” she’s excited and honored to be participating in Dancing with the Locals.

Paul Kittelstad was born and raised in Lakeland. He grew up playing soccer, baseball and basketball. He found a love for the performing arts at age 12 after watching the behind the scenes segment of “Spy Kids 2,” which spurred an interest in acting.

After college, he went to a talent scouting event called AMTC where he got his agent, and has since been in commercials and played extras in television and film. While Paul was attending Word of Life in Hudson, Florida, he stumbled across a video by the Jabbawockeez, a hip-hop dance crew and immediately decided he wanted to learn how to dance like the crew members. He grew to love dancing and joined the RDG crew at Southeastern University. He has since participated in hip-hop battles at World of Dance and at other events, and is now a hip-hop teacher at Just Dance Academy of Dance and Etiquette in Lakeland.

He reminds himself on a daily basis to never give up: “Life is too short to let anyone besides you or God tell you who you can be or what you can do.”

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SASHA & CHASE Sasha Wetherington is a Sioux City, Iowa native, who has resided in Land O’ Lakes, Plant City, Seffner and Dover. In 2006 she graduated from Sickles High School in Tampa.

Sasha worked for Publix for over ten years, but has recently become a full time homemaker. Sasha and her husband Chase have two daughters: Kinley, 3, and Makaila, 1. Sasha’s interests include spending time with her family, going on trips to North Carolina, reading, and line dancing.

Chase Wetherington is a Dover native, who has also lived in Plant City and Seffner. He attended Turkey Creek Middle School and graduated from Durant High School in Plant City, Class of 2007. Chase continued his education by earning a Bachelor’s Degree at the University of South Florida (2011), and a Master’s Degree at Saint Leo University (2015).

Chase is currently a Field Training Officer Deputy Sheriff with the Hillsborough County Sheriff ’s Office, where he has received numerous awards including Top Shot Award and three Lifesaving Awards. He and his wife Sasha Wetherington have two daughters, Kinley, 3, and Makaila, 1. Chase’s interests include going to the beach with his family and continuing graduate studies. He’s currently working towards earning Ph.D. degree at Walden University.

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JILLIAN & JASON Jillian Wilder is an Orlando native and recently moved to the Plant She attended the University of Florida where she earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Tourism, Recreation and Hospitality Management. GO GATORS! She worked several years in the hospitality industry in Central Florida before marrying Plant City native Robert Wilder and moving here to become the new manager of the Trinkle Center. In her free time, she is active with her local sorority alumni chapter and is training for her first half-marathon. She is excited to be dancing in this year’s Dancing with the Locals event and to become involved more with her new community!

City area.

Jason Turner was born in Montana and grew up in New Mexico.

During and after college he worked in the music industry, performing tasks such as radio station manager, concert promoter, publicist, radio promotions, sales, and tour manager. Now he teaches Advanced Water Treatment and math at Hillsborough Community College.

Jason works also with a local youth group here in Plant City. In his spare time, he enjoys live music and traveling. He has been to all 50 states and a few countries and is already making plans to visit more places he has never been before. Although Jason’s favorite type of dancing is slam dancing, he has enjoyed learning something new and plans to have a lot of fun at Dancing with the Locals.

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ALEX & CLAYBO Alex Aponte is a University of South Florida freshman majoring in Biomedical Science. The Lithia native is the daughter of William and Mary Aponte and sister to Sam and Jonathan Aponte.

A member of the 2016 Strawberry Festival Queen’s court, Alex stays busy with studies and Involvement in the pre-med American Medical Student Association and the Medlife club at USF. “I loved the idea of having the opportunity to give back to the community through Dancing with the Locals,” shared Alex, continuing, “I also love to dance and it sounded like a lot of fun! I am very excited to be dancing in this event this year!”

Durant High School teacher and Pinecrest resident Claybo Varnum is the son of Scott and Katie Varnum and brother to Mitchell and Jessi Rae Varnum. In addition to coaching football at Durant, he is an active FFA advisor, Welcome Baptist Church member, and a staffer with the Powerlife Summer Camp.

Claybo decided to dance in this fundraiser for “the opportunity to give back to my hometown and serve my community.”

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ASHLYN & BRYCE Ashlyn Yarbrough is a 4-year Varsity cheerleader at Plant City High School and leads the team as one of the Captains this year for both the Varsity and Competition Cheer teams.

As PCHS Senior Class President, she heads up all senior activities and this year organized the school’s first annual Raider Color Run fundraiser to be held November 5, to benefit the class of 2017. She also serves in leadership with the Interact Girls Service Club, which is sponsored by Plant City’s Rotary Club.

PCHS Calendar Girl--“Miss January 2016”—also feels honored to represent our town on the Florida Strawberry Festival Queen Court this year.

Each Christmas break for the past three years, Ashlyn and her family have traveled to an orphanage, the Cabaret Haiti Mission, in Bercy, Haiti. A group from their church serves by playing and helping care for the children, doing minor construction, and anything else needed. A fourth trip has already been planned.

Next fall, Ashlyn will follow in her family’s footsteps and achieve the dream of attending the University of Florida, where she to major in Business Marketing.

Plant City native Bryson Keel, a Plant City High School senior, is dual-enrolled at Hillsborough Community College. The son of Billy and Donna Keel and brother to Justin is a very involved student.

He’s active in the Future Business Leaders of America, Bringing Our Lives Direction, Ronald McDonald House Charity club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, National Honor Society, Raider Buddies, Interact club, and Teenage Republicans. Bryson is also the chief editor of Plant City High School’s yearbook and captain of the boy’s varsity swim team. Since his sixth grade year, he has been a part of Team Future. in Plant City’s Relay for Life event. He serves as well with Team Santa, which has benefited the food bank for the past nine years.

Regarding Dancing with the Locals, Keel said: “I love the fact that I get to dance with one of my best friends since pre-school (Ashlyn Yarbrough), push myself to do something I’ve never done before, give back to the community, and have fun doing it.”

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COME JOIN FLORIDA AMERICAN DREAM AT OUR INAUGURAL PAGEANT! Hosted By Miss America 1993, Leanza Cornett October 29, 2016 International Palms: 6515 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819 Jr. Teen (12-14) Teen (15-17) Miss (18-26, Unmarried) Mrs. (18-49, Married) Ms. (27-49, Unmarried) Elite (50+, Any Marital Status) Just a $50.00 deposit reserves your spot!

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inventory of fresh flowers, Creative Flower Designs by Glenn specializes in the following services: • Tropicals • Plants • European/dish gardens • Contemporary and traditional arrangements • High-style floral arrangements • Silk arrangements • Dried floral arrangements • Weddings • Funeral designs • Extensive gift line • Gourmet, fruit, and gift baskets • Greeting cards • Candles

Creative Flower Designs

by Glenn 116 W. Alsobrook Street Plant City FL 33563 813-754-7449 800-821-9601 creativeflowerdesigns.com

The company delivers in Plant City, Seffner, Turkey Creek, Lithia, and Dover.

The good folks at Creative Flower Designs by Glenn make it their mission to go above and beyond to ensure customers are more than satisfied with their arrangements and service. For your next arrangement, go with Glenn!

When you need flowers next, remember, “Shop Local!”

Creative Flower Designs by Glenn is located at 116 W. Alsobrook Street.

CREATIVE FLOWER DESIGNS

BY GLENN

BY EDNA RUIZ

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hen customers walk into Creative Flower Designs

by Glenn, they are greeted instantly with a smile, along with the smell of fresh flowers. Behind the counter, more often than not, is Glenn Mathias, the man who started it all.

Making flower arrangements was something Glenn enjoyed doing as a hobby. It wasn’t until a friend dared him to open a flower shop, that it became a career.

“I didn’t know where I wanted to go to school so this was easy to get around all that,” Glenn said. “But once I started the company, I enjoyed it very much.”

Being born and raised in Plant City, Glenn opened his first shop on Wheeler Street 37 years ago. Although he’s moved locations a few times, he never left his hometown. “The people in Plant City

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have been very good to me,” he said, “and I’ve been very fortunate with my business here.”

With his fortune and success, comes a lot of work and Glenn doesn’t do it alone. His staff helps keep customers very happy. He describes his staff as more of a family, since some have been with him for two decades and through hard times.

“I had a heart attack a couple of years ago,” Glenn said. “And they took over for me and really worked hard for a year so I could get over that.”

The staff not only works hard. They truly love what they do.

“We send these beautiful creations out to customers and it makes them happy, so ours is a happy, happy job,” employee Sally Schaffer.

In addition to the shop’s large

Fresh flowers are readily available when you need a special gift.

Color and creativity combine to make that perfect arrangement for your special occasions.

Residential Real Estate Jimmie Robinson - 813-754-3586 ext 1622 RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE 2803-4 James L. Redman Pkwy, Plant City, FL 33566 www.floridamoves.com/jimmie.robinson E-mail: Jimmie.Robinson@floridamoves.com • cell phone 813-390-6441

Plant City Historic District Located in the Historic District of Plant City on a half acre lot, this historic home has all the charm and character of yesteryear. This 2 story colonial home has a total 5919 sq ft, and 4128 sq ft of air conditioned space. Features include 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 fireplaces, original hardwood floors throughout, and beautiful crown moldings. It is clear that the owners have done a wonderful job of updating the home while restoring much of the charm. Both the formal living and dining rooms have fireplaces with the original mantles and fine woodwork. The large kitchen has granite counter tops, an island, and breakfast bar that is open to an eating area with banquette. The large family room was built for entertaining, boasting a gas fireplace with custom cabinetry built for a large screen TV. French doors open out to the screened pool and patio, leading to the basketball court and fire pit, where evening “grillin and chillin” time awaits! The master bedroom has a sitting area that opens out to the pool/patio through French doors. The master bath features his & her sinks, a jetted tub, a large separate shower, and separate “potty” room with toilet and bidet. Upstairs there are 4 bedrooms, and recently updated bath. The 3 car garage is oversized with a workshop, extra storage, and even an air conditioned workout room. This beautiful home has so many extras, and is priced to sell. Make your appointment to see this fine home.

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NATE’S COLUMN

BY NATE DAVIS

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ike most mortgages, the rules for getting approved for a condo vary by loan type. This post focuses on VA and FHA loans.

VA Condo Loan

VA loans allow borrowers to purchase condos with no down payment, making them a popular choice in Florida. People who wish to go this route should make sure a condominium project is already approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs before falling in love with one.

This can be done here: https://vip. vba.va.gov/portal/VBAH/VBAHome/ condopudsearch.

If a desired condo is not on the VA’s list, there is a process to get it approved, but it is lengthy and can be costly. It is usually in a veteran’s best interest to look for another property or change loan type in these situations.

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FHA Condo Loan

The FHA loan allows borrowers to purchase condos with small down payments, and like its VA counterpart, people can search online to see which ones are approved.

Here’s the link to search: https:// entp.hud.gov/idapp/html/condlook.cfm.

Units that are unlisted can still get approved, but once again it could be lengthy and costly. However, an exception to this is a spot condo approval, which is easy to obtain for freestanding, detached condo units. Make sure a mortgage professional is well-versed on this before having him or her take a loan application.

Florida Mortgage Firm specializes in these, and due to our knowledge and experience in this field, we commonly approve many of these loans others can’t.

Florida Mortgage Firm is an Equal Housing Lender, NMLS #289323, NMLS #294701.

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WALDEN LAKE REVIEW

BY NATALIE SWEET

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he Walden Lake Community Association Board Meetings, open to all Walden Lake residents, are held the third Monday monthly at the Walden Lake Community Association office building on Griffin Boulevard in Walden Lake. The next meetings are scheduled for October 17th and November 21st at 7:00 PM. Watch the announcement boards at all entrances for dates and times for special meetings and events.

It’s nice to see children and adults out playing at the Walden Lake Sports Complex. Did you know you could reserve the Pavilion at the new Sports Complex at the Polo Field? Call the HOA for details. If you haven’t been out to the Sports Complex, it is a must to check out. Sponsorship and donation opportunities are also available as this complex grows and is improved. Please contact the Association for more details.

It’s that time again! October 22nd from 1:004:00 is the Eighth Annual Howl-O-Ween event and it promises to be as good as or better than past years! There will be food, lots of games and prizes, pumpkin decorating, hay rides and more.

This is one of the events I never miss as The Sweet Team hosts a booth taking photos and having the children (young and old) do a craft frame for their photo.

Have some old electronics around that you would like to get rid of? There is a FREE electronic recycling event scheduled for Saturday, November 12th from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the HOA office parking area.

During the month of September, there were 16 sales in Walden Lake. The average sale price in Walden Lake was $221,536 with an average of days on the market of 35 days. There were no sales in Walden Lake East.

The September sales are as follows: Address 3425 Silverstone Court 4335 Barret Avenue 4310 Longfellow Drive 2318 Village Green Blvd.

2314 Walden Place S 1807 S Golfview Drive 4308 Kipling Avenue 4107 Concord Way 3222 Kilmer Drive 3438 Silverstone Court 1747 Brookstone Way 2906 Sutton Pines Court 2003 Masters Way 2817 Clubhouse Drive 2905 Forest Hammock Drive 2865 Hammock Drive

Sales Price $100,000 $159,900 $167,500 $171,000 $184,900 $187,000 $190,000 $216,880 $240,000 $245,000 $259,900 $265,000 $282,000 $285,000 $285,000 $305,000

There are currently 27 active listings for sale in Walden Lake and Walden Lake East with an average list price of $236,005 and an average of 56 days on the market. There are 25 properties Pending Contract with an average list price of $232,444 and average of 61 days on the market.

We are beginning to see the inventory grow although well priced homes in good condition, especially if they have been updated, are selling quickly. If you are considering selling, please contact The Sweet Team for a no obligation consultation 813-758-9586.

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Living Area 1850 Sq’ 1617 Sq’ 1244 Sq’ 2123 Sq’ 1415 Sq’ 1947 Sq’ 1886 Sq’ 2508 Sq’ 2252 Sq’ 1850 Sq’ 2635 Sq’ 2114 Sq’ 2785 Sq’ 2580 Sq’ 2895 Sq’ 2661 Sq’

Pool No No No No No Private No Private No No No Private Private Private Private Private

Garage 2 Car 2 Car 2 Car 2 Car 2 Car 2 Car 2 Car 2 Car 3 Car 2 Car 2 Car 2 Car 3 Car 3 Car 3 Car 2 Car

The United Food Bank needs your help with not only donations. They are looking for volunteers!

If you have some time on your hands, they would love to have you come and spend some time with them. The Food Bank would appreciate even one or two hours of your time. Our HOA makes it easy for you to donate nonperishable items. You can drop them at the HOA office on Griffin Blvd.

Feel free to contact me about any real estate questions or about this article. NSweet@KW.com or 813-758-9586.

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ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

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Corey King (far right) throws to his receiver, as the Raiders took on East Bay High School in late September.

Xavier King, a junior at PCHS, remains focused during a football this season.

THE THREE KINGS

BY ASHLYN YARBROUGH | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY COREY KING

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lant City High School has many siblings that are classmates together or even play the same sports together. However, there are no siblings as well known or respected athletically as the three King brothers.

Corey (17), Xavier (16), and Justin (15) King are brothers, classmates, teammates, and best friends.

Corey King, a senior, is the starting quarterback for the Raiders football

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team. “The thing I love most about football is the brotherhood that comes with it,” Corey explained. “Your team is like your other family.” Corey also runs track in the spring to stay conditioned during the football off season. He participates in both the triple jump and long jump. Currently, he has six football scholarship offers from colleges including Toledo University, Eastern Kentucky University, and

Justin King led the county in rebounds and scores as a freshman last year; and hopes to achieve that title again this upcoming winter.

Florida International University. Upon graduation, he plans on attending EKU or FIU with a major in either sports management or broadcast journalism.

Last year, Corey was named the 2nd team All Conference quarterback for Hillsborough County. In addition to athletics, he maintains a solid 3.0 GPA. “I just try to grind in everything I do to be successful,” he stated. “Whether it’s in the classroom or on the field, it’s up to you if you want to succeed.”

Xavier “Zay” King, a junior and the middle King brother, is a wide receiver for the Raiders. “There’s nothing like playing with my brother [Corey],” Zay expressed. “It’s different than playing for any other quarterback. Since he’s a senior, we make the best of our time together on the field, because not many

people get that opportunity.” Zay also serves as a shooting guard for the PCHS basketball team, and runs the 100-meter dash, 200-meter dash, and 4x100-meter relay in track and field. He was awarded Best Defensive Player for basketball and Most Motivational for track this past year. “I just try to stay focused in school and work hard in practice by setting weekly goals for myself,” stated Zay. “My goal is to stand out on the field, become known to colleges, and make a name for myself as an athlete.” When he’s not standing out on the track, court, or field, or maintaining a 3.0 GPA, Zay enjoys dancing and rapping with his cousins.

Justin King is a PCHS sophomore and has been playing basketball for four years. He is the center, small forward, and power forward for the Raiders. Last year, Justin was the number-one player leading in rebounds and scoring in all of Hillsborough County--as a freshman!

He is currently ranked ninth in the state for his 2019 graduating class. “I like the attention and respect that comes with being an athlete,” Justin explained.

“Being the tallest sophomore at 6’7”, little kids look up to me and say ‘I want to be just like Just-o!,’ which is their nickname for me.” Justin plays with Zay on the PCHS basketball team. “Two brothers playing with each other is definitely not something that you see a lot,” Justin stated. “I get more hyped up whenever we are on the court together.”

It’s clear these brothers’ relationship is unlike any other. “We are the King brothers,” Corey stated. “People just like to be around us to see what funny thing we’ll do next.” Zay explains that they are “simply ordinary brothers with a different bond.” These three athletes motivate and never doubt each other. They are inseparable. “If you see one, you see us all,” Justin said.

Corey, Zay, and Justin definitely stand out athletically and socially. Their incredible bond is an inspiration for all other siblings. The three Kings have made an impact on their school and community, and will definitely be ones to follow in the years to come.

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TEAM OF THE MONTH

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The Chargers pose for a picture after a great victory at Western Conference.

The swimmers are Ryan Karczewski, Zane Richardson, Gabriel Vierra, Brad Ye, Daniel Teske, Kasen Van Fossen, James Prescott, Rob Haywood, Bryce McCool, Ayden Kelly, Dakota Cappel, Johnny Torres, Nicolas Legeret-Harris, Shelby Kelly, Zack Baker, Phoebe Furguson, Celi Guzman, Danielle Dwyer, Ana Espina, Emily McDonald, Kaitlyn Caputo, Melanie Flott, Megan Hobbs, Emily Scimeca, Ashley Piccillo, Layne Pullen, Alexandra Haasser, Indira Alur, Kim Ye, Alanna Gallastegui, Katherine Kanyayev, Anna Ress, and Selena Ortega as Team Manager.

an exciting night to watch those close races.”

The Charger swimmers’ unity is one of the strongest aspects of the team. They have won the spirit award at city relays this year. If they are not in the pool, the athletes are always on the sides cheering their fellow teammates on in every event.

“My favorite aspect of the team is how positive we all are towards each other and how much spirit we show by cheering each other on at meets and encouraging each other to work harder at practice,” stated boys team captain Karczewski.

“I think within the short history of our team, we have grown to be a top competitor in our county,” Bonanno expressed.

One challenge the SCHS swim team faces is the season’s short timeframe.

They have to work extremely hard for several large events within a couple

of months. The non-club swimmers have even more catch-up to do during the season, so they can regain their endurance and stamina. However, through these challenges, the Chargers still remain one of the greatest opponents in the state.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Every year, the SCHS swim team holds a “Pink Meet.” Each swimmer dresses in pink and they swim to honor those battling breast cancer. “We want to make sure we always keep in mind those who have struggled and who have battled and that we pay them the respect they have earned,” Bonanno said.

The Strawberry Crest boys and girls swim teams are unique. Their hard work and tight bond makes them stand out above competitors. There is little doubt they will excel beyond the county level and claim championship titles at the state level once again.

STRAWBERRY CREST SWIM TEAM

BY ASHLYN YARBROUGH | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY LISA VANFOSEN

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ompetitive swimming requires the highest level of commitment and dedication from an athlete. It is very rare to find a team that continues to excel swim meet after swim meet; season after season. One of the stellar teams in the Plant City area that has dominated competitive swimming is Strawberry Crest High School.

The Chargers swim team is led by Head Coach Paul Bonanno, who has coached the team for three years now.

Ryan Karczewski and Zane Richardson, both juniors, are captains for the boys swim team. Phoebe Furguson, 12th grade; Celi Guzman, 11th grade; and Danielle Dwyer, 11th grade, all lead the girls. “I knew I had to choose captains

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who would not only empower the team but also manage them,” Bonanno stated.

“I feel our captains truly exude what it means to be a student athlete and make not only our team but the whole school proud.”

The boys swim team has been undefeated for two years. Last year, they placed 13th overall in Florida. This season they also placed first overall at the Western Conference swim competition.

The girls have remained undefeated this year as well. They claimed second-place at the Western Conference swim meet.

Bonanno explained that Durant and Hillsborough high schools are the Chargers’ greatest competitors. “They have a lot of strong swimmers. It’s always

The Girls 200-meter medley and 400-meter freestyle relay teams are composed of the following athletes: Celi Guzman, Melanie Flott, Alexandra Haasser, and Indira Alur.

Kasen Van Fossen, Zane Richardson, Daniel Teske, and Rob Haywood compose the Boys 200-meter medley and 400-meter freestyle relay teams.

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it’s in the nursing home, assisting newcomers, crocheting lap robes for the elderly, sewing dresses for Haitian children, leading a class for those suffering loss, or simply sending out cards for a Sunday school class.

Currently, I’m writing curriculum for a Bible school. This brings great joy for it enables me to sharpen my biblical knowledge and offer hope and wisdom to someone wanting to learn more about God. Is there an as yet unfulfilled dream for your life?

I dream of one day having time to write more books. Throughout my life I’ve enjoyed reading hundreds of them.

With degrees in English, History, and the Bible, my goal is to implement those skills into solid biblical materials to support personal Christian growth for women, so they may find joy in living for God.

LEADERS IN FAITH LISA HERRIN

BY CHERYL JOHNSTON

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isa Herrin has enjoyed working in church over the past 33 years.

Even though both parents are deceased, she and her close-knit siblings gather once or twice a year. There she was widowed with an eight-year-old son, Joe, and also met her current husband of 23 years, Robert, who had two children. Together, the Herrins have five grandchildren and both serve at Plant City Church of God: He as lead pastor and she as Director of Ministries.

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What brought you to faith in Christ?

During my early childhood, I was a regular at the altar, confessing one sin or another. But something happened that changed my roller coaster faith.

Once while perusing the big family Bible, I came across the words spoken by Jesus, “Woe to the hypocrites!” My own duplicity pierced my heart. I repented and from that point onward was never the same. I totally sold out and would never again return to my former lifestyle.

In what ways have you served?

My greatest joy and privilege has been serving God by serving others.

Whatever I’m doing is my favorite project at the time, whether it’s taking women on retreat, speaking, or laughing during a Girl’s Night Out dinner.

Through the years, I’ve taught the Bible to most every age group, headed up girls’ and women’s local and state ministries, led missions’ projects, and served on the state youth ranch board. I’ve sung in the choir, and written plays, skits, Bible studies, articles, pamphlets, and even a book or two. I’ve served as Christian Education director, hospital chaplain, and most recently as church Ministries Director.

That position is perhaps my favorite, for it enables me to place people into their passion-defining ministries. I’ve enjoyed watching folks thrive when connected with their giftedness, whether

Any recommendations for those considering the Christian faith?

To those who have delayed a relationship with Jesus Christ, I would suggest, “Please rethink your position.”

The greatest, most joyful life is one lived for others. My decision to live for Christ has been my most important, one that has brought me inner peace, confidence, and a life free from guilt.

And to those who have?

To those attending church, but not yet connected, I would suggest finding a place to serve. We all have problems— yes, every single one of us. Serving others helps us to become less selfish and more focused on the needs around us.

In the end, as we serve, we discover our problems are not as monumental as they once seemed.

The book of Revelation encourages that Jesus will wipe every tear from our eyes. I believe our last tears will be those shed in heaven when we fully realize what more we could have done while on earth, but we didn’t.

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

THE ROAD TO ORGANIZATION

ORGANIZING YOUR GUEST AREA FOR HOLIDAY COMPANY

Kristen is the voice behind www.theroadtodomestication.com, where she blogs on all things home and garden, with lots of emphasis on organization!

She is married to a very patient man, and together they parent a very mischievous cat, a very happy dog, and they all enjoy home improvement projects and traveling.” We encourage you to visit her blog to learn more.

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oliday company?! HOLIDAY COMPANY?! Oh yes, it’s already the middle of October, folks! The holidays, and all the company that comes with them, will be upon us before we know it! And wouldn’t you rather be prepared ahead of time, rather than rushing around at the last minute trying to find some clean linens for Grandpa John to throw down on the couch? I know I would!

Whether or not you have a dedicated guest space, or your home (and everyone in it) goes a bit topsy-turvy when out-oftowners arrive, there are a few things you can do NOW in order to be less stressed later!

Clean the house, with special emphasis on guest spaces. Especially if you have a dedicated guest room, this is key! If your guest room is your daughter’s room (after she’s moved into her sister’s room for temporary bunking) when company comes, then make sure her room is free of all extra clutter. It’ll make things easier in the end!

Make sure your toiletries are stocked and your linens are washed. Of course, you can buy large quantities of toiletries

right down the road at Walmart...and a fantastic place to purchase high-quality linens at a great price is Ross! Are there special linens that you only bring out for guests? Why not go ahead and wash them now!

Create a meal plan. Even if it seems a bit pre-emptive, it’s a good idea to know what you’ll be cooking to feed your houseguests! Building a stash of “company-friendly recipes” is also a great idea! Then you have your go-to’s within reach!

Cook ahead. Plan on serving a breakfast casserole? Go ahead and make that and freeze it - how easy will it be to grab it from the freezer that first morning and simply bake it?

Don’t forget to check for special needs! Is any of your company: lactose intolerant? Gluten sensitive? In need of a fan while they sleep? Have allergies to your pets? Check these things out so you aren’t caught off-guard last-minute.

If you’d like to see more tips for organization (plus recipes, home decor and DIY solutions), check out Kristen’s blog at www.theroadtodomestication.com

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CANDY’S CORNER

BY CANDY OWENS

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hose AUTUMN LEAVES keep falling down, And around the corner you might just see a clown.

Or perhaps a scary Witch with an ugly

green face, It’s a vision you might simply want to erase.

Oh! Look there’s a Princess wearing a crown, Followed by a Fairy twirling round and around.

There are Pumpkins, Ghosts, and so many scary sights, To help us remember that it’s HALLOWEEN night!

Halloween has become one of the most popular holidays in the United States over the past 125 years and is now second only to Christmas. Dressing up in costumes, decorating houses and yards with Halloween decorations and of course, the beloved ritual of Trick or Treating have made Halloween one of the most fun, looked forward to, and revered holidays by people of all ages. But where did this holiday come from and where did all these rather unusual customs get their start?

Let’s take a quick look at the history of Halloween and the origin of the traditions so many people enjoy today.

Like many other holidays, Halloween has evolved and changed throughout history. Over 2,000 years ago people called the Celts lived in what is now Ireland, the UK, and part of Northern France.

November 1 was their New Year’s Day. They believed the night before the New Year (October 31) was a time when the living and the deceased came together.

More than a thousand years ago the Christian church named November 1 All Saints Day (also called All Hallows.). This

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was a special holy day to honor the saints and other people who had passed away for their religion. The night before All Hallows was called Hallows Eve. Later the name was changed to Halloween.

Like the Celts, the Europeans of that time also believed the spirits of the deceased would visit the earth on Halloween. So on that night people wore costumes that looked like ghosts or other creatures. They thought if they dressed like that, spirits would leave them alone.

The tradition of Halloween was carried to America by the immigrating Europeans.

Some traditions changed a little, though.

For example, on Halloween in Europe some people would carry lanterns made from turnips. In America, pumpkins were more common. So people began putting candles inside them and using them as lanterns. That is why you see Jack ‘O Lanterns today.

I know there has been so much change Halloween traditions through the years, but I sure am glad that by the time I came along Halloween was celebrated just the way it should be. Let’s ask a few people from my generation their thoughts on Halloween.

Connie Bonds- Personal Lines Insurance Agent said: “Oh, I just loved the Halloween Carnivals at Cork Elementary.

I was a student there back in the early 1960s. It was such a happy time and I had so much fun with my friends. We all dressed up in our homemade costumes and walked around the carnival talking, laughing, playing games, eating all sorts of goodies, and just having the best time.”

Jeremy Lofstrom- “Owner in Training” of The Whistle Stop Café said: “I was about 10 years-old and out Trick or Treating in my neighborhood when my friends and I walked toward our neighbor’s house. We spotted a man dressed up like the character Michael Myers (from the

Halloween movie series) just sitting in a lounge chair in the middle of his driveway, staring straight ahead. There was no way I was going up to him to get some candy. I was scared to death.”

Lori McGinnis Yarborough- LifeLong Plant City resident, mother of two very active high school students, and community volunteer said: “I just loved the Halloween Carnivals at Bryan Elementary.

I remember dressing up like a big black spider and walking across the stage on my hands during the costume contest.”

Stewart Ross-Insurance Agent said: “SNICKER BARS!!!” I just loved to go Trick or Treating so I could get Snicker Bars.”

Allen Merrill- Born and raised in Plant City, everybody’s friend loved by all, and son of the late J.D. Merrill, a former Mayor of Plant City said: “I loved to go Trick or Treating and loved the Wilson Elementary Halloween Carnivals. There was nothing like them. But, when I became a teenager, I loved to crawl up on the roof of our house and drop eggs on the unsuspecting Trick or Treaters.

HAHAHA!!

Julie Willis Futch- Plant City native, Little Miss Plant City of 1970, 1977 Strawberry Festival Queen Court Member, and artist said: “The Halloween Carnivals at Jackson Elementary are my favorite memories of Halloween. One year my Mother was in charge of the Haunted House. She borrowed a genuine casket from one of the funeral homes here in town and had my brother Jodi pop out of the casket as kids walked by. After the carnival was over, the funeral home was closed, so we had to load it up in the back of my parent’s station wagon and take it home with us until the funeral home reopened. I had to ride in the back of the wagon with the casket. I was scared to death even though I knew it was empty.

I have not, nor will I ever forget that Haunted House and ride home with that casket for the rest of my life.”

Halloween holds such wonderful memories for me. There is no way to describe the excitement I felt through the years as a child when I was dressed up in my costumes. The Halloween Carnivals at Jackson Elementary were second to none.

We had costume contests, chicken and rice suppers, rummage sales, hamburger and hot dog stands, sweet shops with the best homemade cakes, pies, and candies,

clown dunking booths, bean bag toss, Ring the Milk Bottles, Pick up the Ducks for a prize, going fishing for prizes with old cane poles, French fry and cotton candy booths, snow cones, popcorn, and pickles on a stick. We even had our fathers dress up and participate in a “Miss America” contest (Now that brought the house down!!). My favorite of all were the haunted houses. Those were the thrill of a lifetime for us kids.

All of that, along with the scary movies like: Dracula, The Mummy, The Wolfman, Frankenstein, Abbot and Costello Go To the Wax Museum, Vincent Price’s The Tingler, House on Haunted Hill, Night of the Living Dead, and of course, Charlie Brown’s Great Pumpkin helped set the mood. But these were not to be outdone by visions of bags full of candies from Trick or Treat night, carving pumpkins with my family, and the cool crisp air of Fall. Even the television stations ran commercials by the Kraft Company showing a mother’s hand dipping apples on a stick into a pot of hot bubbly caramel and the same hand slicing a big and rich piece of Kraft Philadelphia Cheesecake. Now how was that for setting the mood?

As the seasons change and time marches on, we now find ourselves in a world where Halloween, Halloween Carnivals, and Trick or Treating are being done away with. Why? Because some people say that Halloween promotes evil.

How in the name of all that is good and made with love be considered wrong? Our parents went out of their way to make the best Halloween carnivals, costume parades, dunking booths, chicken and rice suppers, popcorn and snow cone booths, and haunted houses for us. They decorated, helped us carve pumpkins, sewed costumes, took us Trick-orTreating, and yes…some of our mothers even made Kraft Caramel Apples on a stick. HAHAHA!! I just know you could ask any person 40 years or older about Halloween and you would not have one person who didn’t smile, chuckle, and have happy thoughts of their childhood Halloweens. I think people need to stop and think about it and stop overthinking!!

Happy Halloween and Trick or Treat!

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WANDA’S WORDS OF WISDOM

BY WANDA “LEWIS” ANDERSON

L

et’s face it.

Everyone at some point has cut themselves while shaving. Next time this happens to you, just reach for the Chap Stick. Simply wipe the Chap Stick over the cut and it stops the bleeding. This is also good on paper cuts. Ouch, those hurt!

Coke--it’s not just a refreshing beverage. Did you know it’s great for removing blood stains from clothing?

Soak the garment in Coke until the stain dissolves and then wash as usual. Be sure and wash before the Coke dries.

I was going through some old pictures in a photo album and some had stuck to the page. If this happens to you, try using a blow dryer to the back of the page.This will loosen the photo from the page and the sticky adhesive holding it in place.

When you need quick results in removing a blemish overnight, I have just

the tip. Dab a little honey on the blemish and cover it with a Band-Aid. The honey’s natural antibacterial properties will clean the bacteria out by morning.

Did you know you can unclog your toilet with Dawn dish soap? Pour a cup of Dawn dish soap into the toilet bowl and allow it to sit for 15 minutes. Follow up with a bucket of hot water poured from waist height and your toilet should be clog-free.

Dawn works great on sliding doors or hinges when they don’t seem to open smoothly. It lasts much longer than any aerosol type spray and it’s non-toxic.

To remove all the oil and grime from your dirty tools after you have finished your automotive repair project, soak them in Dawn dishwashing liquid soap before you put them away. This also helps prevent rust from forming on the tools.

I hope everyone has a safe and fun Halloween.

Until next time relax, enjoy and be thankful…

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and prop maker Curry Baker serve as the foundation for the Gallery.

They are looking to add additional artists, as well as interns, who are ready and willing to share their art with the public. J. Burt Gallery will act as a working gallery for Burt, who will also offer classes. The classes will be geared towards children ages 8 and up, and will be offered after school three times a week. The classes will teach a wide range of art to include Folk Art, Mixed Media, Bling ( Jules style), along with many different techniques. In conjunction with the art classes, an art reception featuring all the children’s art is planned when classes conclude.

J. Burt Gallery will also offer an open studio for adults to gather to create all different types of art with others in a fun and lively environment. Burt, who has always been a guiding force behind many local charity events in the area, such as the United Food Bank’s Empty Bowls project and the High Heel Hike, will also incorporate ways to bring an aspect of “fun” fundraising into her art and the Gallery. Other fun ideas include paint

E

your own parties, scrapbooking, jewelry making, birthday parties for little girls, and other private events. Truly ,the sky is the limit when it comes to art and the ideas Burt has for her “pop-up” art gallery.

J Burt Gallery and working studio will be open from October 8th to December 31st, therefore the reason it is called a “pop-up.” A grand opening is planned for Thursday, October 20th, which will no doubt be a memorable occasion. It is absolutely amazing to see within a few short weeks the transformation that has taken place to make Burt’s first gallery in Plant City a reality.

So, when you feel the need for an “art fix” in a fun and lively setting, make sure to pop into J Burt Gallery, Plant City’s first and only “pop-up” art gallery.

J Burt Gallery 2604 James Redman Parkway, Suite 204 813-843-6886 JulesBurtArt@gmail.com

Jules Burt follows her dream of opening an Art Gallery in Plant City.

J BURT GALLERY PLANT CITY’S FIRST AND ONLY “POP-UP” ART GALLERY

BY HEATHER DAVIS | PHOTOS BY JULIAN CASTORENO

T

here is a term used to describe people who manage to get things done quickly and efficiently. They are called “movers and shakers.” Jules Burt seems to take that term to a whole new level.

On October 8th, J Burt Gallery opened to the public, only two weeks after Burt began to envision the idea of starting a “pop-up” Art Gallery in Plant City, a first of its kind for our town.

Burt is definitely no stranger to owning and operating an art gallery.

For thirteen years, she had a gallery in Atlanta. While there, she was discovered by an executive of 20th Century Fox who introduced her art to others in the industry. As a result her art became a permanent fixture on the show Friends

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for over seven seasons. Burt then went on to open a gallery in South Tampa for another three years.

Plant City has always been a big part of Burt’s art career in recognizing and appreciating her contributions to the art world and community. While Burt has always been a big part of the Plant City community, she has not until now had an art gallery in this area. “The time is right,” Burt feels, to take on this kind of endeavor in her hometown.

The purpose of J Burt Gallery is to not only share the art of Jules Burt, along with her passion for all things art, but to promote other local artists as well.

Burt, along with local artist, Kristen Caldwell, who acts as both an apprentice to Burt as well as the Gallery Director,

Jules Burt -- Living a life full of love, life, and, art.

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Jason Sapp, along with his girlfriend, caught some nice solid Reds while fishing with Captain Mike Goodwine of Blackneck Adventures.

FISH TALES

BY MIKE GOODWINE

Hello! It’s Captain Mike Goodwine. Welcome to Fish Tales. Each month I share fishing tips and reports on where the fish are biting. I also feature the “Catch of the Month” selected from photos emailed to me at Blackneckadventures@yahoo.com

O

ctober is here and that means time for pumpkin reds. As fall appears, big massive schools are slowly showing up. The sight of watching hundreds of redfish tailing is quite amazing. When targeting these reds, approach them quietly and from the direction facing them. Never push them from behind. Use big baits if available or try cut bait. Fall also means slob snook showing up on the flats.

Please practice proper catch and release. A lot of big older fish will be caught during the fall. Until next time, “Live and let fish!”

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SENIORS OF THE MONTH

E GRESHAM ASHLYN STEPHENS YARBROUGH

BY BRYSON KEEL

BY ABBY ALMON

I

t seems to be there is no better fit for the Senior of the Month than Plant City High School’s Ashlyn Yarbrough.

Through her work in school as well as the community, Ashlyn is one student who is always looking out for her fellow classmates.

Ashlyn demonstrates true leadership qualities through her work as the Senior Class President, Vice President for Girls Interact, and Captain of the Varsity Cheerleading Squad. She is also founder of her own service club, Livin’ It. Additionally, she’s active in many other clubs, such as Fellowship of Christian Athletes, FFA, and Future Business Leaders of America.

Ashlyn has received many awards for her outstanding work. Several include: the Violet Richardson Award for volunteer service, the Hillsborough County Youth Excellence and Achievement Award, and Raider of Excellence recognition for two years in a row.

Aside from her school related service clubs and activities, Ashlyn has dedicated a large amount of time to the Strawberry Festival. As a 2016 Florida Strawberry Festival Court Member, she represents Plant City with the utmost grace and kindliness.

Through all of her hard work it is clear to see why Ashlyn was selected as Senior of the Month.

Setting the standards, Ashlyn continues to help her community in any way she can.

FAVORITES: Book: The Fault in Our Stars by John Green Artist: George Strait Quote: “We are blessed so that we can bless others.”

Restaurant: Mi Casa Song: Red Dirt Road by Brooks N’ Dunn

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Sports Team: Florida Gators College: UF Hobby: Hanging out at the lake Place to hang out in Plant City: Dairy Queen or Twistee Treat Quote: “We are blessed so that we can bless others.”

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resham Stephens is known around Plant City High School for his motivation, charm, and genuine personality. Currently holding a 4.6 GPA, Gresham manages to balance his high school classes with his rigorous dual enrollment courses at Hillsborough Community College.

Even with his school-load, Gresham is involved in a variety of clubs and organizations. He has been an officer of his FFA chapter all four years of high school.

This year he was elected chapter President.

Through this program, he has received various awards including high individual in livestock judging at the 2016 Florida Strawberry Festival.

Aside from FFA, Gresham tirelessly serves his community. He is currently a co-chairman in the planning and development of the Strawberry Festival Youth Parade. He is on the public relations committee for the parade. He often volunteers at the First Baptist Church of Plant City and Knights Elementary, focusing on building a strong foundation for the youth of our city.

Being the diverse student he is, Gresham is also involved in a variety of other clubs including: Teenage Republicans, Interact Service Club, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. In addition to these, he has been a part of Plant city’s Varsity Boy’s Golf team since his sophomore year.

With all of these qualities in mind, it is no surprise that Gresham Stephens was given this title. With his strong character, hard work ethic, and driven attitude, he perfectly fits the mold of the Senior of the Month.

FAVORITES:

Subject: Ag Book: The Stranger Band/Artist: George Strait Song: Ocean Front Property Sports Team: Rays

Food: Steak Restraunt: Berns Movie: Tombstone and Lonesome Dove Hobbies: Hunting and Fishing Hangout: In a tree stand or on the water

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STRAWBERRY HUT

People order at Strawberry Hut’s walk-up window and wait in the shade of the overhang for their award-winning sandwiches and refreshing ice-cream creations.

STRAWBERRY HUT A VERY POPULAR SANDWICH SHOP

The famous Cuban sandwich, pressed with garlic butter, was my husband’s choice. (Sandwiches are $4.49 per half, $7.29 for a whole.) He said its unique flavor combination made it one of the tastiest Cuban sandwiches ever.

His chocolate shake was creamy and refreshing.

My made-to-order cheeseburger sub came on Cuban bread and was great.

The homemade honey butter on the pressed sandwich added a kiss of natural sweetness. The cheese was melty and the ground beef was tender and filled the bread. The sub contained a generous amount of crisp shredded lettuce, tomatoes, pickles and onions.

A bowl of hot Spanish bean soup included chorizo, garbanzos, potatoes and ham and came with Cuban bread.

For $2.71 a bowl or $3.60 a pint, it could be a satisfying light meal.

The Wilsons’ plans to expand the restaurant, which sits on property owned

by Frances Hardee, got interrupted when in February 2015 they opened a Lakeland-based Strawberry Hut.

1505 N Wheeler St Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-3779 thestrawberryhut.com Open Mon-Sat: 6:30a-6:30p Lunch served all day Breakfast served only from 6:30-10 a.m.

“In some ways the new 3400-squarefoot air-conditioned Lakeland location has helped promote both Strawberry Huts. Some people grab breakfast at our place in Plant City, go to their jobs in Lakeland and have lunch at our other store,” said Betty Wilson, who performs office work for both restaurants.

Her husband, Troy Wilson, maintains both businesses and pastors the Independent Christian Assembly in Plant City.

“Plant City has been very good to us. Our customers feel like family,” said Betty Wilson.

“We’re very grateful, because without them patronizing us, we wouldn’t still be here after 23 years.”

BY BARBARA ROUTEN

S

trawberry Hut, part of the Plant City landscape since 1993, is a popular place. Its Cuban sandwiches have been voted number one in Plant City eight years straight. After visiting the 300-square-foot walk-up sandwich shop recently, I discovered why.

On September 17, in an hour’s time, dozens of people stopped by Troy and Betty Wilson’s restaurant, which offers sandwiches, salads, soup, shakes and strawberry shortcake.

“I come here often. I love this placeit’s my favorite! I especially love the Cubans,” said Pam Miller of Plant City.

Debra Young, her daughter, Shakel Davis, Davis’ son Ra’melo Billington and Young’s grandson Ayomide Oderiende, of Nigeria, came for a refreshing sweet ice-cream treat. Another family grabbed a bite while their dogs lounged under a strawberry-red picnic table. Jim Ethington, new to Plant City, came to try Strawberry Hut at a friend’s invitation.

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Another man said he often picks up lunch there on his way to work because “the food is good and not expensive.”

The Wilsons, longtime Plant City residents, “serve people what they expect, what they’ve always gotten. People appreciate that,” said Betty Wilson.

“We still hold to the same standards we always have. We have never cut quality.

We get fresh produce every few days from the farmer’s market and fresh bread delivered daily from an Ybor City bakery.

We still sell 12-inch, not nine-inch, sandwiches.”

The most sought-after item is the real-fruit strawberry milkshake. Over a year ago, they added year-round strawberry shortcake, served with soft vanilla ice cream and whipped cream.

My husband and I came to Strawberry Hut for the first time on a hot September morning. After ordering, since there is no indoor seating, we sat at a picnic table under a wooden roof. It was comfortable in the shade.

The cheeseburger sub filled its Cuban-bread bun and was well-dressed with lettuce, onions, tomatoes, pickles, mustard, mayonnaise and ketchup. Pictured with it are Spanish bean soup and Cuban bread.

Please this paper!

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D

ith

es, served w pan-fried latk Homemade, m and sour crea applesauce

LATKES COMFORT FOOD - ANYTIME!

Shredded bake

d potato - Step

BY LISA HERRIN

A

s for comfort food, in the Fall or any season, latkes bring it on. And who doesn’t love potatoes, especially when they’re this simple to make. Potato pancakes are associated with cuisines of many European and Middle Eastern century-old traditions. Once tasted, your friends and family will ask for this treat often.

But be warned, these delicious potato pancakes can be addictive. Bet you can’t eat just one.

Ingredients

shredded tatoes, peeled and • 2 large baking po ing son dr y Ranch sea • 1/2 package of t sal on spo tea 1/2 • • 1 egg, beaten ur • 1 tablespoon flo oil ing ok co p cu • 1/4

Directions

patties. oil. Form into small together except the paper towel a on ain Dr es.

Mix all ingredients tti pa in a skillet and fry Heat 1/4 cup of oil d sour cream. an ce sau ple ap th and ser ve wi

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1 in latke prepar

ation

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can’t miss

events ONGOING

1914 Plant City High School Community Center 605 N. Collins St. Hosts several ongoing opportunities: • 1) Quintilla Geer Bruton Archives Center History/Genealogy library & archives research facility) Tues. 10AM-6PM; Wed.-Sat. 1-5PM Evenings by appointment • 2) East Hillsborough Historical Society Classroom Gallery Art display by East Hillsborough Art Guild members Thursday - Saturday, 1-5PM Evenings by appointment • 3) Pioneer Museums For tour schedule, call 813-757-9226 or e-mail qcenter@tampabay.rr.com

MONDAYS WEEKLY • Plant City Daybreak Rotary Club 7 AM South Florida Baptist Hospital Community Room Info: George Banning, 813-759-1638

1ST & 3RD MONDAYS MONTHLY • Improvement League of Plant City 7 PM Historic Glover School Conference Room 5104 Horton Rd. Info: William Thomas, 813-757-6760

2ND & 4TH MONDAYS MONTHLY • Plant City Commission Meeting 7:30 PM City Hall, 302 W. Reynolds St. City Clerk: 813-659-4237

(December: only the 2nd Monday)

2ND MONDAY MONTHLY • Plant City Garden Club 10 AM (Sept. thru May) info: Christy Linke; 732-322-8392

TUESDAYS WEEKLY • Plant City Lions Club 12 Noon The Catering Company & Café 115 E. Reynolds St. Info: Tony Lee, 813-752-7202 • Recovery for Life 6:30 - 8PM 12-step Bible-based program to help w/ addictions Lorena Jaeb Rainbow House 504 N. Palm Dr., Plant City Info: Debbie Ray 813-763-1562

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• Economic Development Corp. Meeting 2 PM PC Chamber unless announced 106 N. Evers St. Info: Jake Austin, 863-712-0655

1ST TUESDAYS MONTHLY (SEPT-MAY) • Arts Council of Plant City 7 PM Chamber of Commerce Public Room 106 N. Evers St. Info: Dodie White, 813-752-5156

2ND TUESDAYS MONTHLY • GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City 10:30 AM 1110 N. Wheeler St. Info: Nancy Miller, 813-754-2544

2ND & 4TH TUESDAYS MONTHLY • American Legion– Norman McLeod Post#26 6 PM 2207 W. Baker St. 813-752-8608 Info: Nancy Miller, 813-754-2544

WEDNESDAYS WEEKLY • Walking Club 7:30AM for 45-minute walk Meet @Bruton Library Info: Susan Miles 813-757-9215 • Plant City Kiwanis Club 12 Noon Info: David Wolf / 813-717-9300

THURSDAYS WEEKLY • Toastmasters 7:30 AM @ PC Chamber 106 N. Evers St. • Hillsborough County Entrepreneur Services 9AM - 4PM PC Chamber, 106 N. Evers St. Dottie @813-204-9267 re: consultation • PC Local Harvest Farmers Market 4 – 8 PM McCall Park, 100 N. Collns St. 813-531-1811 pclocalharvestfarmersmarket.com

2ND THURSDAYS MONTHLY • GFWC Junior Woman’s Club of Plant City 7 PM 1110 N. Wheeler St. Info: Lisa Rhodes, 813-376-8294

FRIDAYS WEEKLY • O’Brien’s Pub Acoustic Happy Hour 5:30 – 8:30PM @1701 S. Alexander St. 813-764-8818

• Top 40 Country Fried Fridays 9PM – 2AM Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill, 106 E. SR 60 813-737-4444

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS WEEKLY • Music in The Loft @Krazy Kup Fridays: 6:33 - 8:33 PM Saturdays: 8:33 - 10:33PM 101 East J. Arden Mays Blvd.

813-752-1220; Facebook • Live Music @O’Brien’s Irish Pub 9PM ‘til close 1701 S. Alexander St. 813-764-8818

3RD SATURDAYS MONTHLY • Strawberry Classic Car Show New winter hours: 4-8 PM 102 N. Palmer St. Historic Downtown Plant City Info: Peggy Wilson at 813-754-3707 www.plantcity.org peggy@plantcity.org

OCTOBER 15 SATURDAY • FREE Family & Community Fall Festival 1 – 4 PM Dunk Tank, Facepainting, Games, Crafts Bake Sale, Raffles, Entertainment, Snacks Booth space available Stone Ledge Manor Living Facility 12006 McIntosh Rd., Thonotosassa 813-986-7900 • Strawberry Classic Car Show 4 - 8 PM 102 N. Palmer St., Historic Downtown Plant City Info: 813-754-3707 or www.plantcity.org • Plant City Community Chorale A Fall Kaleidoscope Concert 7:30 - 9:00 PM Performance @acoustically perfect Holy Innocents’ Episcopal Church 604 N. Valrico Rd. $10/advance; $15 @door www.pccchorale.org/buy-tickets/

15 & 16 SATURDAY & SUNDAY • Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail Fri/Sat/Sun (9-30 thru 10-23-16), open 7:30-10 PM Outdoor haunted attraction features 2 walk-thru trails & 1 mile of pure terror.

Legendary phantom Sir Henry searches for his bride’s murderer.

2837 S. Frontage Rd. (Exit 22 off I-4 @Park Rd) Plant City Info: Facebook, 863-944-0748, or sirhenryshauntedtrail@gmail.com

17 MONDAY • Town Hall Meeting with Melissa Snively 7PM Meet schoolboard member Melissa Snively & HCPS Superintendent Jeff Eakins Updates on initiatives/issues affecting our schools Plant City High School, 1 Raider Place

20 THURSDAY • BBQ Chicken Dinner GFWC Woman’s Club of Plant City 4 - 6:30 PM @Train Depot, 102 N. Palmer St. Info: Pat @813-390-7331 $12 per dinner ( Johnson Barbeque); Advance sales only • J Burt Gallery Grand Opening Reception 2604 James Redman Parkway, Suite 204 813-843-6886 Info: JulesBurtArt@gmail.com

21 FRIDAY • High School Football @7:30PM Durant HS vs Tampa Bay Tech @DHS (PCHS- No game tonight) Strawberry Crest HS at East Bay in Gibsonton

21, 22, 23 – FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY • Aerospace Discovery Weekend (formerly Wings & Things) 10-21 @5PM to 10-23 at 12:30PM 3-day aerospace adventure introduces youth to aviation Astronaut’s presentation demonstrates how science of sports relates to flight.

“First Flight” for ages 8-17 who’ve never flown in general aviation aircraft Sun ‘n Fun Expo Campus 4175 Medulla Rd., Lakeland Info: Richele Floyd @863-904-4073 Cost: Approx. $37 for all 3 days Tour Florida’s Official Aviation Museum free Sat./Sun. www.sun-n-fun.org/blog/aerospace-discoveryweekend/ • Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail Fri/Sat/Sun (9-30 thru 10-23-16), open 7:30-10 PM Outdoor haunted attraction features 2 walk-thru trails & 1 mile of pure terror.

Legendary phantom Sir Henry searches for his bride’s murderer.

2837 S. Frontage Rd. (Exit 22 off I-4 @Park Rd) Plant City Info: Facebook, 863-944-0748, or sirhenryshauntedtrail@gmail.com

23 SUNDAY • Gospel Jam 2016 3PM Free w/church bulletin per person Hillsborough County Fairgrounds 215 Sydney Washer Rd., Dover To perform, register online www.hillsboroughcountyfair.com 813-737-FAIR

24 MONDAY • Plant City Commission Meeting 7:30 PM Sadye Gibbs Martin Auditorium City Hall, 302 W. Reynolds St. City Clerk: 813-659-4237

27 THURSDAY • PC Local Harvest Farmers Market 4-8 PM McCall Park, 100 N. Collins St. 813-531-1911 pclocalharvestfarmersmarket.com

28 FRIDAY

30 SUNDAY

5 SATURDAY

12 SATURDAY

• BBQ Chicken Fundraiser for Plant City Christmas Parade 10:30 AM - 6:00 PM EDT Free delivery order of 10+ Call ahead: Henry Falcon 813-754-9338; Sharon Moody 813-453-7134 Jarrett-Scott Ford, 2000 E. Baker St. Donation $10 / dinner

• Gospel Jam 2016 3PM Free admission w/church bulletin Hillsborough County Fairgrounds 215 Sydney Washer Rd., Dover Register online to perform www.hillsboroughcountyfair.com 813-737-FAIR

• 2016 Raider Color Run Benefits PCHS Class of 2017 $25 registration before 10/5/16 Register: raidercolorrun.com Info: Lori Yarbrough 813-478-3886

• Pioneer Heritage Day 9 AM- 3 PM Free historical celebration for all 1914 High School Community Center 805 N. Collins Street 813-757-9226

• Main Street Food Truck Rally and Fall Festival Includes: Girl’s Night Out, Food Trucks, Pumpkin carving & costume contest 5:00 – 9:00 PM Union Station Train Depot 102 N. Palmer St., Plant City Karen Collins 813-659-4209 • High School Football @7:30PM (No game for Durant Cougars) Plant City HS Raiders at Lennard in Ruskin Strawberry Crest HS vs Bloomingdale @SCHS

28, 29, 30 & 31 – FRIDAY THRU MONDAY NIGHTS • Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail Fri/Sat/Sun (9-30 thru 10-23-16), open 7:30-10 PM Outdoor haunted attraction features 2 walk-thru trails over 1 mile of pure terror.

Legendary phantom Sir Henry searches for his bride’s murderer.

2837 S. Frontage Rd. (Exit 22 off I-4 @Park Rd) Plant City Info: Facebook, 863-944-0748, or sirhenryshauntedtrail@gmail.com

29 SATURDAY • 2nd Annual FRANkenstein 5K & WOD-OWeen Halloween Party and Fun Run Benefits United Food Bank (bring canned goods) 8AM – 1PM Chip-timed on/off road 5K; on/off road 1 Mile Monster Dash Walking is fine, too!

CrossFit *Music *Prizes *Games *Costume Contest (People & Pets) *Face Painting *Pumpkin Carving *Sheriff ’s K9 demo *Facepainting *Vendors *Food Trucks 5K participants can win one-month CrossFit membership for 2 Alderman’s Ford Park 100 Alderman Ford Park Dr., Plant City, FL $2.00 park entrance; Free for first 100 thru gate Advanced Tickets: 5K Fun Run $30; 1M Kids Monster Dash $15 Register @ www.CrossFitPlantCity.com • Housing Fair 9 AM - 1 PM Program includes related service providers, homeowner education classes, info re: housing rehab, etc.

St. Mary’s Community Church 904 E Renfro St, Plant City Info: Karen Collins @759-4209 • 6th Annual Strawberry Crest Golf Tournament 8:15 AM - 12:00 PM EDT Fundraiser benefits SCHS Chargers Baseball Four-person Scramble Info: Eric Beattie, Head Baseball Coach Registration $75/person; $300 for 4-person team Includes golf & Brocato’s Cuban sandwich meal

31 MONDAY – HAPPY HALLOWEEN • Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail Fri/Sat/Sun (9-30 thru 10-23-16), open 7:30-10 PM Outdoor haunted attraction features 2 walk-thru trails over 1 mile of pure terror.

Legendary phantom Sir Henry searches for his bride’s murderer.

2837 S. Frontage Rd. (Exit 22 off I-4 @Park Rd) Plant City Info: Facebook, 863-944-0748, or sirhenryshauntedtrail@gmail.com

NOVEMBER 1 TUESDAY • Economic Development Corporation Monthly Meeting 2PM @PC Chamber unless announced 106 N. Evers St. Info: Jake Austin, 863-712-0655

3 THURSDAY • Body Composition Testing 4 - 6:30 PM Two tests with at least 98% accuracy Includes multi-page report with your statistics * Hydro-static, requires H2O * New 8-point bioelectric impedance device CrossFit Plant City 1402 Mercantile Court, Suite B 813-752-9260ite B Email train@crossfitplantcity.com for appointment.

4 FRIDAY • Lions Club Annual Charity Golf Tournament Entry deadline Friday, 10-28-16 11:30AM- Registration; 1 PM- Shotgun start 5:30 PM Dinner & Prize Ceremony River Hills Country Club 3943 New River Hills Pkwy., Valrico Info: Rick Norman 813-230-7737; Tony Lee 813-298-8208 $400 Team; $100 Player; $100 Hole Sign • High School Football @7:30PM Durant Cougars at King HS in Tampa Plant City Raiders at Freedom HS in Tampa Strawberry Crest Chargers vs Gaither HS @ SCHS

4 FRIDAY & 5 SATURDAY

• Save A Life Saturday Free Health/Wellness Fair & “Hands Only CPR” training 8:00 AM - Noon Florida Southern College Honeyman Pavilion (front of Branscomb Auditorium) 111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr. Lakeland Info: 863-680-1277 or https://www.eventbrite. com/e/save-a-life-saturday-tickets-26955167632 • Fall Festival for Families 11AM – 3PM Free fun w/games, entertainment & treats Plant City Church of God 2103 Mud Lake Road 3 – 5 PM

• Garden Club Flower Show 9 AM - 3PM At Pioneer Day this year • Sixth Annual Empty Bowls Project 10:30 AM - 1:30 PM Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum 102 N. Palmer St., Plant City Contact: Silvia Dodson, 813-754-6396 Donation: $10 = Two 8oz cups or One 16oz cup All proceeds benefit United Food Bank of Plant City

14 MONDAY • Master Gardeners of Hillsborough Co. Extension Service 6:30 PM Bruton Memorial Library Free classes for adults (This month: Roses) Participants can bring a plant for exchange afterwards Info: Susan Miles 813-757-9215; smiles@ plantcitygov.com

• Fall-O-Christ Kidz Crusade Amazing Science w/Professor DoDad Children K-5th Grade One Accord Church 2203 W. Baker Street (behind Taco Bell oneaccordpc.org

11 FRIDAY [VETERANS DAY] • 31st Annual Veterans Day Event Sponsored by Hopewell Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Honoring all branches of the military, and all who have served.

May they never be forgotten!

Local students share speeches: “What Veterans Day Means to Me” Veterans Memorial Park 703 N. Wheeler Street, Plant City Info: Marsha Passmore, 813-245-2244 • Dancing with the Locals 6:30 - 11 PM $100 ticket includes hors d’oeuvre sampling & open bar Trinkle Center at HCC Campus 1206 N. Park Rd., Plant City

11, 12, & 13 FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY

• Plant City Commission Meeting 7:30 PM Sadye Gibbs Martin Auditorium City Hall, 302 W. Reynolds St. City Clerk: 813-659-4237

18, 19 FRIDAY & SATURDAY • Suncoast Credit Union Plant City Pig Jam KCBS sanctioned competition Friday 5-10 PM; 10AM-5 PM 14th annual state BBQ championship event, presented by the Chamber of Commerce, features fabulous Food, live Entertainment, Kids Activities, Great Merchandise, and of course, that finger licking good barbecue!

Randy Larson Softball Four-Plex Stadium 1500 S. Park Rd., Plant City Info: Samantha Bryant (813) 754-3707 www.plantcity.org Free admission, $5 to park

• Plant City Entertainment, Inc. “The Game’s Afoot or Homes for the Holidays” Performances: November 11, 12, 13, 18, 19 & 20 Friday/Saturday 8PM; Sunday 2PM PCE Community Theater 101 N. Thomas St. Group/advance tickets @Hardee’s Fashions, 754-4929 Any remaining tickets available at door Adults $16; Students/Seniors $14; Groups (10+) $12.00 Doors open 1 hour prior Website: www.pceshows.com

• Fancy Flea Vintage Home & Garden Market 9AM - 4PM Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds 2866 W. Reynolds Street $5 Admission; Free Parking

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ACROSS 1. Deadly snake 4. Flower stalk 8. To the rear 11. Pitcher’s delights 15. All lined up 16. Composed 17. Ghostly group’s representative?

19. Ghost glasses?

22. Bring into correspondence 23. Acad. conductor 24. Tipsy fellow 25. Sand toys 27. __-um; tiny biting insect 28. Pilgrim destinations 30. Gold or uranium 33. Testing site 35. Unpleasant 36. Enjoys Japanese food on Halloween?

42. 6/6/44 44. Evil one 45. School 47. Brown amphibian 50. Neighbor of NJ 52. Is able to 54. Queues 55. Walked leisurely 57. 48 Down export 60. Conducted 61. Meals of lamb and charoset 62. Joshua’s partner 63. Light 65. Wisk rival 67. Bill denomination 68. Parental advicegiver whose books might be read on Halloween?

72. Jungle critter 75. Teachers’ org.

76. Being 77. Fertile refuge 79. Wandered 84. Baby carriers 86. Tramload 87. Leaning 88. Comical Fudd 89. Early transport 90. Go deeper 92. Joint 93. Splendid scene 95. ’70s dos 100. RC, for one 102. Stops at a Washington city on Halloween?

105. Pond growth 108. Second-largest ocean: abbr.

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Floating object Promissory note Hawthorne, e.g.

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Where a ghost might have spent Halloween in Prohibition days?

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DOWN 1. Unbroken horse 2. Tic-tac-toe win 3. Clumsy 4. Read over quickly 5. City near Puget Sound 6. Perpendicular addition 7. Fem. title 8. ’63-’72 space program 9. Left completely alone 10. Crag 11. Capital city 12. Thurman’s namesakes 13. London art gallery 14. Dagger of old 15. Cathedral features 17. __-fi 18. Berry or Griffey 19. Total 20. Poet’s contraction 1

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82. TV sitcom diner 83. “Able was I __...”

85. Urgent letters 87. In the past 89. Graz resident 91. Cold cubes 94. “One Day __ Time” 96. Young animal 97. Parts 98. Volga feeder 99. Role on “Cheers” 101. Counselors 103. Most cagey 104. Who’s home in an empty house 106. Barbecues 107. Reserved 110. Female animal 111. Word ending: abbr.

112. Handle: Lat. 113. Engrossed 114. College that was founded in 1440 115. “Get lost!”

116. Shade provider 118. Take a 747 120. Luau instruments 123. Hair covering 125. Veggie casing 126. Shout of support 127. Destiny

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T O K R E N B I Y D U L S E L O K O A S G O L A S W O Y W E R S

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“My wait time is always short.” ~ Glenda R., a patient of South Florida Baptist Hospital

Emergency Care When You Need It When it comes to all the health care needs of Glenda and her family, South Florida Baptist Hospital has always been her first choice. From her emergency visits to endoscopies and a robotic surgery, Glenda has received a lifetime of care here. A member of the community since 1953, South Florida Baptist Hospital was built on quality, compassionate care. You’ll find a highly skilled and experienced team that works to make patients and visitors as comfortable as possible during their hospital experience. When you’re treated at South Florida Baptist Hospital, you’ll feel at home, close to home — all your health care needs are covered, without ever leaving Plant City.

Let South Florida Baptist Hospital be your partner in getting you well and keeping you well. Fill out a health profile online at SouthFloridaBaptistCare.org and you’ll be sent a complimentary travel first aid kit.

Emergency Care Our modern Emergency Center treats a wide variety of medical and surgical conditions and is one of the largest and most technologically advanced emergency centers in eastern Hillsborough County.

We treat adult and pediatric patients, and our fast and friendly service is provided by clinicians focused on delivering the best care to you.

BC1606704-0916

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