FOCUS Plant City 9-12

2000 East Baker St. | Plant City, FL 33563 | 800-545-2018

www.jarrettscottford.com 1 Based on RDA Group’s GQRS cumulative survey at three months of service in three surveys of 2010 Ford and competitive owners conducted 9/09-5/10. 2Available on 2011 Focus, Fusion (excluding Hybrid), Taurus (excluding SE), Escape (excluding Hybrid), Flex, Ranger, 2010 Explorer, Sport Trac and F-150 (excluding Raptor).

Not all buyers will qualify for Ford Credit limited-term financing. $1,500 cash back may be used to make payments; customer is required to make all actual payments. For all offers, take new retail delivery from dealer stock by 1/3/11. Seedealer for complete details.

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december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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BEST BUFFET IN PLANT CITY OPEN CHRISTMAS DAY 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Special $10.99 Buffet

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

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

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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table of contents

december 2010 volume 9 issue 12

Publisher Mike Floyd Office Manager Dede Floyd Credit Manager Angel Carter Copy Editor Cheryl Johnston

Family of Community Magazines

advertising director Brent Simmons Sales Sophia Hyde Holly Far mer Julie Hasting Erik Butler Production Anthony Sassano Tony Cartagena FOCUSTV Brandon Hyde Kelleigh Klein

ontheCOVER 15 FOCUS Plant City Lakeland Brandon Winter Haven Lake County South Tampa

FOCUSTV

MYFOCUSTV.COM Local Community Stories

Own Your Own FOcus Magazine

Licensed territories are available.

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

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Distribution Byron Spradlin Belva DeVane

carl grooms

Photographers Suzanne Gallagher Billy Friend Lori Blaser Stephanie Humphrey

photo by sophia hyde

LOCAL

Local girl, Jill Welsh, receives Oprah’s ultimate giveaway. Durant High School selects their calendar girls. FOCUS is the place to keep up with the local business, sports, and charity event news each month.

feature

The Florida Strawberry Growers Association loves to celebrate successes for the industry and for the folks who make it happen. The 28th Annual Strawberry Jam recognizes strong contributors and awards scholarships to students who will be the industry’s future. New members are always welcome.

SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW

Meet Carl Grooms, the generous employer and farming enthusiast who is recognized also for his distinctive beard. This down-to-earth country gentleman cherishes family, hard work, and our thriving strawberry industry.

business profile

Attention seniors: If you’ve been considering a move to more affordable housing, visit the award winning Plant City Towers and the Plant City Living Center. Each were recently recognized by NAHMA as a Community of Quality.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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dining profile

A wonderful surprise awaits you at Plant City Hometown Buffet if your family hasn’t already discovered this gem. Great food, amazing variety, all-you-can-eat, for a price that will impress you. And, they’re open Christmas Day!

12 - Talk of the Town 44 - Did You Know?

46 - Plant City Chamber of Commerce

78 - Home Guide 90 - Athlete Of The Month 98 - Al Reuchel 101 - Derek Maul

104 - Auto Review 107 - Dining Guide 114 - Event Calendar 116 - Just For Fun

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

published by:

floyd publications, Inc.

702 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Plant City, FL 33563 Phone 813.707.8783 • Fax 813.764.0990

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

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

U.S. HWY. 301

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

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From riverview: North on US Hwy 301 to Causeway Blvd. East on Causeway Blvd. Right turn on S. Gornto Lake Road. Right turn into Lake Brandon Professional Park. Immediate left turn onto Professional Park Drive. Right turn onto Nikki View Drive. Our office building will be on your left.

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

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

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

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

Specialty: Oral &ontoMaxillofacial Surgery

Wisdom teeth / Other extractions

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

Board Certified in Dental Anesthesiology foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

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letter from the publisher

ne of my favorite things to do with my family is load up the truck and boat and hit the lake. We love to go wake boarding, water skiing, and tubing, usually on Lake Thonotosassa. We have got better over the years but we still have some good crashes from time to time.

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My youngest, Zy, is about 3 and half and we’ve been taking him out on the boat with us for a couple years now. Before he could even talk, he would crawl into the kiddy pool at the house dragging along a wakeboard handle. He would hold it out and then crash into the water, just like he had seen his dad and brother do. He would make you pull on the rope as he continuously crashed into the water. He’s still not old enough to get his own pair of skiis or board, but we’ll put him in the tube and ride him around.

However, we’re facing a new challenge right now. Every time we ask him what he wants for Christmas this year, he gives the same detailed response. He wants a truck that looks exactly like dad’s truck but his size that he can actually drive. Plus, he wants a boat that looks exactly like dad’s boat (and he even describes the red stripes). He says that he wants to hook his boat to his truck, climb in with him and his best friend, and drive the truck out to the swimming pool. Then, him and his best friend are going to get into their own boat and wake board in the swimming pool.

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

Yes, I agree with you that this sounds adorable. But as parents we can’t figure out how to remotely come close to pulling it off. He is so excited about Santa bringing him his own truck and boat just like daddy’s, and we don’t want to disappoint him. I’m sure my wife and I will find wonderful gifts for him and on Christmas morning he will be so enthralled by those that he will completely forget about the wake boarding boat. But his repetition of this desire has left a real impact on me.

Zy describing the details of the truck and boat, and seeing him imitate my crashes before he could even imitate my words has really opened my eyes to see how closely our children are watching us. Actions truly do speak louder than words and our children are watching everything we do. For most of their childhood, they want to be just like mommy and daddy, regardless of the flaws they somehow don’t notice. Being a parent is a lot of responsibility in general, but sometimes I feel a tremendous weight of pressure when I realize the significant impact I am leaving behind in these children that are watching my every move. To all of the parents reading Focus this month, isn’t this such a humbling experience? It’s both flattering and scary at the same time.

ASHLEY YAMNITZ

BRENDAN BLANCO

JILL JONES

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This month we featured Carl Grooms, a long time farmer in this town who has left a tremendous legacy in many lives, not just his own children. With strawberry season beginning this month, we wanted to introduce you to one of the many farmers who bring the gift of this sweet fruit to our community every year.

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11/4/2010 7:27:01 AM foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

Merry Christmas

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

Visit our web site: www.feltonsmarket.com

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Low cholesterol items: Smoked Turkey Wings Smoked Turkey Necks Fresh Turkey Tails & Gizzards Smoked Turkey Tails Fresh Goat Fresh Mullet/Catfish/Perch Fresh Dressed, Grade A, Premium, Ice-Packed Poultry Leg Quarters 40-lb. box Fresh IBP Small and Med. Spare Ribs Fresh IBP Lite Spare Ribs “Great for Barbecuing” Fajitas by the package or the box

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

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

Fresh Local Produce Daily Fresh Greens Available Daily

GROCERY Paradise Fruit in 5-lb. box (available All Year Round)

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

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foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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Local » talk of the town

plant city’s

talk town of the

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

Congratulations Fall Ball Champions 2010 Plant City Little League Machine Pitch Sand Gnats Coach: Jody Morgan Assistant Coach: Kyle Robinson, Andy Knotts, Dustin Williams Players: Max Ness, Jamie Brown, Dustin Williams, Joey Morgan, TJ Reed, Ryan Robinson, Jackson Knotts, Austin Tomlinson, Mason Strano, Julian Silva, Ozzie Molina, Dawson Metcalf

2011 BABY PARADE

Chairperson: Leah Long (813) 305-9361 Registration: Plant City Jr. Woman’s Club, Saturday, January 8, 2011, 8:00am - 10:00am Sign-ups will be as follows: 1 year olds 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

2 year olds 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

3 year olds 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

4 year olds 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Dancing With the Local’s III Winners

1st place Jodi Smith and Jack Vasconcellos 2nd Mike and DeDe Floyd 3rd Dr. BJ Garrison and Erica Hope Judges choice for best performance went to BJ and Erica Raised over $25,000 toward the PLANT CITY ROTARY which gives to numerous local charities

You are encouraged to come to the Saturday, January 8th registration because spaces are limited to the first

PCHS Acheivement award winners

Twelve Plant City High School students were awarded the Jan Henrick Achievement Award. This award is selected by teacher nomination and recognizes students who have overcome obstacles. The Jan Henrick Award was established in 2002. Henrick died in 2004 and her husband Kevin Bohn and his company Florida Gas and Electric Corporation have spearheaded fundraising activities to keep the ward active.

Plant City High School awards winners included: Mario Bancroft, Tricia Beck-Peter, Tzana Collas, Jahill Collins, Monet Iverson, Jose Jijon, Crystal Jones, Quesstin McNeal, Rodrick Pettis, Chris Wetherington, Matthew Wetherington, and Christina Williams.

50 children for each age group.

Pc Rotary club PCHS Acheivement award winners

Organizers of the Henrick Achievement Award host a fundraising Golf Tournament each year. Four Plant City High Golfers participated in the event and won second place. Golfers represents PCHS included Kelsey Jensen, Kellyanne Hurst, Connor Hurst and Shelby Johnson.

Pictured: Golfers: Kellyanne Hurst, Connor Hurst and Kelsey Jensen

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december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Rotary Club of Plant City featured student leaders recently at their club meeting. Allie Goodrich and Regan Knotts spoke to the member about their experiences at summer youth leadership workshops. Allie Goodrich attended the World affairs Conference at Auburn University in Alabama. Regan Knotts attended Students for Tomorrow’s Leaders at Florida Southern College in Lakeland.

Pictured: Left to Right: tod Pukus, Rotary Chair of Youth Leaders; Regan Knotts, Allie Goodrich, Jim Scott, President of Rotary; Tom Gompf.

PCHS winners at state contest The Tony Jannus Society recently recognized James Orso, a freshman at Plant City High School as the grand prize winner in the state wide essay contest.

Mr. Orso was honored at a luncheon at the Tampa Airport Marriott. Plant City High School Junior, Michael Bennett took 3rd place in the Essay contest.

Local » talk of the town

Congratulations to Florida Insurance Center The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc., (NYSE: HIG) announced that it is making its award-winning AARP-branded auto insurance program available through Plant City’s own Florida Insurance Center Inc. Florida Insurance Center Inc. was chosen after satisfying a number of eligibility requirements, which included: demonstrating a commitment to community service; meeting a high level of business and ethics standards; and completing a training program designed to highlight the needs of the 50+ population.

“For 25 years, the industry-leading AARP-branded auto insurance program from The Hartford has been extremely popular,” said Kathy Bromage vice president, The Hartford.

“Much of the success of this program is due to innovative product features and a commitment to truly understand and support our customers

Plant City Dolphin Midget Cheerleaders 35 Amazing Cheerleaders showed their talent this year: Tied for 2nd in the Turkey Creek Cheer Fest 2nd place in the East Bay Rockin’ Cheer competition 2nd Place in the big Conference Cheer Off

Follow the Yellow Brick Road…

The 2011 Little Miss Plant City Contest is looking for contestants. Girls between the ages of 8 to 10 years old are encouraged to participate.

Registration for the contest will be held on Saturday, February 5th, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Plant City Woman’s Club located at 1110 N. Wheeler Street, Plant City. For more information please contact Shannon Davis, Chairwoman at ShannonFLFFA@yahoo.com

Up and coming pharmacist Chris Williams was awarded the Next Generation Pharmacist Award. The award was given to only one “up and coming pharmacist in the country” that has made an impact on the field of study through service, knowledge and leadership.

Pictured: Chris Williams the recipient, Laurel and Billy Williams parents

Weight loss through Hypnosis Thursday January 6, 2011 Bruton Memorial Library 302 W. McClendon Street 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.

Weight loss through Hypnosis Presented by: Darryl Schumacher Certified Hypnotist Registration Required-space is limited

Dr. W. Edward Gonzalez, Jr.,

a Pediatric Practitioner and Diplomate of the American Orthodontic Society from Brandon, Florida, was awarded the Dr. Richard L. Moore Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2010 Annual Meeting of the American Orthodontic Society this past October.

Dr. Gonzalez was recognized for his outstanding commitment to the educational values of the Society, to include his achievements as a national Board Member and Past President, his work to initiate the first-ever Academy of Diplomates to serve as the credentialing arm of the American Orthodontic Society, and for his outstanding clinical skills in building two of the largest pediatric practices in central Florida. Dr. Gonzalez and his wife Mayling are both parents and proud grandparents. This prestigious award is the highest honor given by the Board of Directors and is named for the founder of this professional association.

The American Orthodontic Society headquartered in Dallas, Texas, is dedicated solely to quality orthodontic education for general and pediatric practitioners who choose to offer orthodontic services to their patients and is the largest association of its kind in the United States.

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Local » Focus

The fallen soldiers float, honoring local families whose loved one’s lost their lives in military battle led the Plant City Christmas Parade. Photo by Kelleigh Klein

Local Heroes Remembered C

hristmas is the time of year to celebrate our many blessings with family and friends. It is a time of family togetherness, religious celebrations, exchanging gifts, enjoying wonderful meals and socials. Of course, these blessings would not be ours to enjoy if not for military heroes who have fought for thousands of years to protect our freedom.

This year local leaders decided to honor the families of fallen military personnel from Plant City on a float in this year’s Plant City Christmas Parade. The response they received was overwhelming . . .

The float committee included Sweetbay Store Manager Henry Falcon, Davey Miles, Brian Griffin and Sharon Moody. To begin, the group invited local individuals, businesses and civic organizations to contribute money to help purchase the float. What the group found was a tremendous outpouring of support for the float from sponsors like the Plant

in Annual Christmas Parade Written By: Kelleigh Klein

City Lions Club, Plant City Noon Rotary, Plant City Kiwanis Club, Unity in the Community, GWCF Woman’s Club, Plant City Berry Patch, Sweetbay Supermarket and Felton’s Meat and Produce.

decorations, Plant City Photo Archives staff who printed pictures of fallen soldiers for the float, and the Civinettes Club of Plant City High School for helping to serve the dinners.”

Eric Lembke. Eric, who worked for Jim at the Orange Blossom Tea Room, was killed October 2009 at age 25. Eric was married and the father of two children (Alexis, 7, and Nathaniel, 5).

In addition, the committee hosted a barbeque dinner fundraiser to raise additional dollars. Dinners included delicious barbequed chicken prepared by competitive griller Davey Miles.

According to Davey, “Over 750 dinners were sold.” He continues, “The idea to create the float to honor the soldiers came from Henry Falcon last year. However, we did not have the time to make it happen until this year.”

Fallen soldier family members who rode on the Christmas parade float included Wayne Plouffe and Vicki Croft whose son Sgt. David Andrew Croft (age 22) died during his second tour on January 5, 2010. He would have celebrated his 23rd birthday three days later on January 8th and was scheduled to come home January 18th. David’s fiancée, Susie Clark, also rode on the float in memory of David.

Family members of Sgt. Samuel Valdez (wife Lynda and two children, Samuel Jr. and Leigh Anna, and his parents Manuel and Quadalupe Regalado) also rode on the float. Sgt. Valdez served two years in the military.

In addition to the committee fundraising support of the fallen soldiers, Sheriff David Gee was on hand visiting with the military families and told them how proud he was of their loved ones. Chief Bill McDaniel also spent time speaking with the families and thanking them for their loved ones’ service.

According to Henry, “Those instrumental in helping to make the fundraising event and float creation a great success include Pat Pogue who sold over 300 dinners, Martha Genaldi (art teacher at Wilson Elementary) who helped with the float

Jim Pollard rode on the float in memory of

Along the parade route, the crowd applauded, cheered, stood and saluted the families riding the float. According to committee member Henry Falcon, “Walking with the families on the float was a very humbling experience . . . . Probably one of the most incredible experiences of my life.”

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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Local » Focus This year’s parade Grand Marshall was Dr. Hal Brewer accompanied by his wife Lynn. Dr. Brewer has a long resume of community service and involvement.

His involvement includes the annual Friends of the Library Mystery Dinner, Plant City Theater, the Spring of Tampa Bay, Diamonds and Denim Committee Member, United Food Bank of Plant City, Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Ambassador and more.

and Ashlyn Robinson rode the parade route in sporty convertibles.

The conclusion of the parade marked the much anticipated arrival of Santa Claus. Christmas Parade Committee Member and driver of Santa’s vehicle, Wayne Harris, creatively designed a Santa conclusion that perfectly threaded together the magic of Christmas with the beginning of the parade. As Wayne was involved with the creation of the Fallen Soldiers Float, he designed the vehicle Santa rode in to symbolized freedom, Christmas spirit and history. Santa’s vehicle was a 1976 red Capris Convertible with white interior.

According to Wayne, “The decorations on the car included gold garland (symbolizing flag stars and military killed in action) and blue bulbs (symbolizing flag stripes and active military).” Wayne continues, “I am passionate about the military and the freedoms represented by the men and women who fight and die for our country.”

Wayne’ son, Kevin is an Army veteran who did three tours in Iraq. Kevin is currently out of the Army and working as a contractor for the military in Afghanistan.

Musical entertainment along the parade route was provided by the talented student musicians from the Marshall Middle School Band, Turkey Creek Middle School Band, Tomlin Middle School Band and Durant High School Band.

Next year’s Christmas Parade is scheduled for Friday, December 2nd. With the great success of this year’s parade, the parade committee has already begun thinking of new ideas and themes for the 28th annual event.

Turkey Creek Middle School Marching Band musically entertained the Christmas parade crowd.

Annual Christmas parade through downtown Plant City made its way T Written By: Kelleigh Klein

he Christmas season officially began in Plant City on Friday, December 3rd as the annual Christmas parade made its way through downtown Plant City. Cool temperatures complimented the parade for added enjoyment and holiday feel for parade watchers. According to Plant City Christmas Parade CoChairman, Fran Nielsen, “Committee members of the 27th annual parade creatively weaved many aspects of Plant City’s community spirit to ensure this year’s parade a great success.” Parade themes included faith, family, friends, military and, of course, the magic of Santa Claus.

Leading the parade of 73 units this year was a float honoring the families of fallen soldiers from Plant City. Family members of the soldiers were invited to ride on the float or walk with it in the parade. Pictures of soldiers were displayed proudly as part of the float décor. As the leading float made its way along the parade route, parade watchers stood in honor of the heroes, applauded, saluted and cried.

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Fran stated, “As the Fallen Soldiers Float traveled through the parade route warm community feelings set the tempo for the entire event.”

Immediately following the Families of the Fallen Soldiers Float the excitement grew with parade watchers as the preparade traditional flashing lights and sirens associated with local law enforcement and fire department vehicles began.

Law enforcement vehicles included Hillsborough County Sheriff ’s Office Motor Cycle Unit, Plant City Police Department Motorcycle Unit, Military Veterans Motorcycle Escort Unit, Fire Department Honor Guard, Plant City Police Department and Sheriff ’s Office with Sheriff David Gee. Additional Christmas Parade units include elected officials. This year, the beautiful Miss Florida, Jaclyn Raulerson joined the parade route with her father, Mayor Dan Raulerson. In addition, Florida Strawberry Festival Queen, Natalie Burgin, her court members, First Maid Tylynn Eben, Dayla Dementry, Rachel Hallman

Strawberry Festival Queen Natalie Burgin and court members Dayla Dementry, Rachel Hallman, Tylynn Eben, and Ashlyn Robinson enjoyed a moment together before the parade festivities began.

Merry Christmas from fromour our Family to to yours! yours!

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foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

17

Local » Focus Photo by Mike Bryant

Photo by Mike Bryant

Art Lounge Gallery Celebrates One Year P Written By: Heather Davis

lant City artists and art appreciators can celebrate having a place they can call home in the Art Lounge Gallery.

Established one year ago, with its Grand Opening on November 13, 2009, the Art Lounge Gallery has been an instant success with artists and art lovers alike.

What began as a vision from a small handful of artists who desired to bring to Plant City a working Art Gallery and Studio has since blossomed into an amazing and inspiring showcase for a wide array of art to view or purchase. The Art Lounge Gallery now has thirteen full time active members, with three new members being added just this past month. Operating as an Artist Co-op, each member is responsible for their share of overhead expenses as well as a small commitment of time.

The dedication of all member artists was evident in the One Year Celebration held on November 13th. The whole space of the gallery as well as the gated patio on Reynolds Street was transformed into a vibrant space for art, live music, food, wine, and desserts featuring an anniversary

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cake and hand made chocolates. Even the back alley was made over into an “Art Courtyard” creating an awesome space for celebrating and socializing with artwork, appetizers, drinks, and a slideshow presentation of art and events from the first year of the Art Lounge Gallery.

Photo by Mike Bryant

The event was sponsored by Gladys Jones of J&G Jewelers who generously offered gorgeous jewelry door prizes. Other door prizes offered included a personal oil portrait drawing from artist Debra Bryant, as well as a winner’s choice drawing of which the winner could choose one piece of artwork donated by the artists. With the wide array of art, food, and prizes, no one walked away empty handed.

This one year anniversary was truly a time to celebrate the first year of the Art Lounge Gallery in Plant City as well as to offer thanks to all who continue to support and encourage the arts and artists here.

The Art Lounge Gallery is located at 119 East Reynolds St., in downtown Plant City and is open from 11am to 5pm, Tuesday - Saturday.

Photo by Mike Bryant

Local » Focus

Photo courtesy of Connie Disson

David J.asHubay Retires from 43-Year Tomlin Middle School Art Teacher Career T Written By: Cheryl Johnston

wo words describe local teacher David J. Hubay - devoted and dedicated.

For 43 years, Hubay taught art at the school where he began his career at age 23 - Tomlin Middle School. Now he’s cruising off into retirement.

This accomplishment is almost unheard of in the academic field today. But when a man knows his purpose, determines to accomplish it, and finds a work home where he fits, 43 years can fly by.

According to Walt Shaffner, a former TMS principal and current Hillsborough County Public Schools supervisor, this would mean Hubay “impacted more than 6,000 young lives in our community.”

The Tomlin staff and HCPS officials honored Hubay’s service as an educator at a party November 9 in the media center.

Friends, family, and co-workers came to celebrate with the man most describe as “always smiling.”

He remembers the love and honor he felt

from the large group in attendance. In appreciation, Tomlin showered Hubay with gifts – a watch, a one-of-a-kind work-of-art quilt, a custom-made lap desk, commemorative artwork, many cards, and money for that well-deserved cruise.

comfortable in the classroom. I never felt like a stranger. He is an excellent mentor who cares for others.”

how many people/students you have touched and influenced, and for whom you made a difference.”

Hubay shared from a long list of experiences and had the crowd laughing when he announced, “And this was just in my first year.” He recalled applying for the job in 1967 during a teacher strike with a simple interview and no resume.

His annual salary then was $4,500 – paid monthly.

Annette Kilgore, is a Springhead Elementary guidance counselor, 26-year employee of HCPS, and Hubay’s former student. She treasures the Japanese Haiku Poetry book, complete with silkscreen art, made in his class. She said, “On the back cover it reads, ‘It’s been good having you in art this year. Keep up the good work and you’ll go far. Good luck at PCHS and in the future. Bless you always, Mr. Hubay, Tomlin Art 1978’ … “And now,” she adds, “we bless him as he enters retirement.

Thanks for giving your time to us. You just never know the lives you touch while you perform the art of teaching. Enjoy some rest and relaxation! You certainly deserve it!”

Cruising is a favorite pastime for Hubay and wife Kicha, whom he married in 1970 during his 26-month duty tour in Korea.

They are parents to Aimee Hershey, a teacher in New York, and David, Jr., who died at age 20 in a vehicle accident. Tomlin co-workers, students, and church members Although he remembers many students, words from two in particular have touched helped the family through this difficult him recently. Alvah Davis, an architectural time. student in Atlanta, called Hubay to explain A fascinating story involves Ric Edgemon, how the class project to build a scale model dream house had inspired him to a former student from 1977. Ric dreamed pursue this career and to thank him for his of eventually following in Hubay’s teaching. footsteps as a Tomlin art instructor, and today that dream is a reality.

Harold Perkins, a student during his Former student Salvador Hidalgo recalled inaugural year, attends Plant City Church of God with the Hubays. In a fond memories of 1991 in Hubay’s class.

“Mr. Hubay was very friendly, helpful, congratulatory card he wrote: “David, or Mr. Hubay, as a good former student funny, and organized. He always wore a should say, what a great example you have smile. Although I didn’t speak English set then and now. You will never know then, he made me feel welcome and

Former students or parents of those may send good wishes to David Hubay, Sr. at 6104 Bob Head Rd, Plant City, FL 335654916.

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

19

Recipient: Mother: Father:

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Chris is a fourth generation family from Plant City. His father Billy is a strawberry farmer. He grew up helping him in the summers and even took a year off before pharmacy school to work the farm for a year. My mother is a nurse, her father was an old country doctor in Plant City, Dr. Ben Gatliff. I was always interested in science.

-Chris

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december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

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foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

21

Local » Focus show school spirit a little differently this year. The girls would still go shopping for dresses and spend time getting ready together and the guys would still complain about having to wear ties. They all agreed to go through the motions of getting ready for the annual dance, but instead, go bowling and play laser tag – in their formal wear!

Photo by Susan Cole

As the discussions around the lunch table progressed, word spread that these students were doing something out of the ordinary. Others felt the same way about school dances and wanted to join this group creating a new celebration.

Two students from the lunch table put their heads together and improvised a plan. From preparing a sign-up sheet for transportation to collecting money for the activities, these students did everything to ensure this would be a homecoming to remember.

Bowl-Coming Area Students Start a New Annual Plant City, Durant, Strawberry Crest, Armwood and area homeschoolers last month.

On the night of October 9th, the 20 students gathered for a potluck dinner hosted in one of their homes. In keeping with the Plant City High School Homecoming theme, “When in Rome,” parents served the group in an area decorated to look and feel like a restaurant in Italy. They dined inside, surrounded by columns adorned with ferns and a 6’x6’ poster of the Roman Coliseum. Outside they enjoyed an atmosphere complete with flowing fountains and soft lighting.

Discouraged by the immodest dancing and music choices customarily a part of homecoming dances, the five students from Plant City High School decided to

Josh Kent was impressed: “The food was awesome as well as the set-up. We got to have fun with our friends and still be in a Christ-centered environment.”

Dance Tradition Written By: Susan Cole

“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Romans 12:2

W

hat started as a lunchtime discussion among five students about what it means to set a good example, developed into an event still being talked about among area teens.

“Bowl-Coming” replaced the annual homecoming dance for 20 students of

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december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Following dinner, a local photographer took photos, gratis, and arranged for online printouts to preserve the memories.

Afterwards, everyone boarded the decorated “party bus” graciously loaned

by First Baptist Church of Plant City and headed to Terrace Sports for three hours of bowling and laser tag. Kory Brevik described the time as “really fun and a great alternative to homecoming.” Most wished they’d thought about doing this new thing in their earlier school years.

Nathan Cruzado added: “It was nice having fun with my friends without seeing them engage in promiscuous doings that would normally take place at the primary alternative to Bowl-Coming.”

These students took the initiative to go against what the culture says they have to do in order to have fun. They wanted to be different and prove it through their actions. What started out as a cool idea for these five has become, what looks to be, a new tradition for more in the years ahead.

Perhaps Leslie Cole’s reaction expresses it best: “I’m so glad we decided to invent Bowl-Coming this year. I had the most amazing experience dancing, eating and bowling. It was ten times better than any school dance I’ve ever been to. We were able to do everything, if not more, than other students and still represent our love for Christ.”

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foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

23

January to December with Jordan in the middle.

Durant Calendar HighGirlSchool Hosts 10th Fundraiser Annual Written By: Cheryl Johnston | photos by: Digital Pixel Photography – www.DigitalPixelPhotography.com

Fifty beautiful young women were friendly competitors in the 10th Annual Durant High School Calendar Girl fundraising effort.

In the finale of the four-hour competition on November 6, 2010, senior Jordan Alfonso was crowned Cover Girl by the reigning Miss Florida, Jaclyn Raulerson, who is also a former DHS Cover Girl.

This was Alfonso’s first pageant. The senior class secretary took this step to become more comfortable in front of an audience.

Hannah Hodge, 2006 Strawberry Festival Queen and 2006 DHS Cover Girl, shared emcee duties with senior Clay Varnum, VP of Student Government and Executive Producer of the DNEWS. Courtney Singletary, DHS reading teacher, and James Hilsman, TV Production teacher, organized the pageant with the help of parents of TV production students.

After the first round, 25 girls remained, from which the final 13 were selected.

Each of the 25 remaining responded to a question prepared by Singletary. They were judged for poise, natural beauty, and the confidence displayed in the response segment.

2011 Cover Girl

This year’s judges were: Vicky McShane (owner- NTLC Property Maintenance, Inc.;director- Pageants With a Purpose); Fermin Lopez (trial lawyer; Barry University law professor); and Wilton Simpson (owner- Simpson Farms, Simpson Environmental Services).

Singletary is the girls’ biggest encourager.

She said, “ I always tell girls, it’s not about if you win. It’s about if you had to courage to participate - to not have regrets. I never ever won a hometown pageant, but I had a blast doing all of them!”

Miss June, Samantha Farkas, agreed: “This was my third year of competition Contestants must maintain at least a 2.5 and second year for selection. I love doing GPA, be considered leaders, and be in calendar girl because it’s so much fun, good stead with DHS administration with especially when you have friends to share no disciplinary actions on their records. An the memories with. This group of girls was impressive most part of the competition great and worked very hard to represent is the list of curricular and extracurricular our school well.” accomplishments these young ladies have compiled. Each girl must also sell a minimum of five calendars, which offsets printing costs.

Francesca Mason sold the most calendar ads and received a $100 gift card from Westfield Shopping Center for her efforts.

As a six-time junior Olympian in rhythmic dancing, Mason is used to competitions.

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december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Jordan Alfonso

Miss January

Miss February

Miss March

Miss April

Jalonda Lancaster

Lauren Leveson

Lanissa Reale

Sara Kate Snapp

Miss May

Miss June

Miss July

Miss August

Danielle McCullough

Samantha Farkas

Celeste Lewis

Jordan Williams

Miss September

Miss October

Miss November

Miss December

Riley Andreu

Madison Astin

Ashton Haris

Nicole Honaker foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

25

Where do you go for objective investment guidance?

Local » Focus

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PCHS Senior Signs Baseball To play for FAU Scholarship N Written By: Lynne Warren

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ovember 17 was an exciting day for Brett Nizamoff. The 17-year-old senior at Plant City High School finalized his college plans by signing a scholarship with Florida Atlantic University. The culmination of many years of dedication to the sport, the scholarship to this Division 1 school is well deserved.

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december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Nizamoff, center, signs his scholarship papers as his family looks on. L-R: Father, John; Sister, Tori; Mom, Amy; Grandparents Paul and Bobbie Erickson

W. Alexander St. 7-Eleven

Currently Nizamoff plays for the PCHS Varsity baseball team, and for the last two summers, has played with the Bulletts, a local competition team. It was during his play with the Bulletts that he was contacted by a scout from FAU. The left-handed pitcher has participated in the sport since age five, pitching several no hitters, has been on multiple All-star teams, and placed second in the AABC World Series. Nizamoff credits his coaches through the years with helping him

develop the skills needed to secure this scholarship. The fact that he possesses a lot of natural talent certainly played a part in the scholarship award. His fastball is in the 87 mph range, and he has a great curve ball according to his coaches.

Unfortunately, due to schedule conflicts, his two current coaches, Mark Persails (PCHS) and Sal Giardina (Bulletts), were unable to attend the signing. Nizamoff will graduate from PCHS in 2011, and it’s off to Boca Raton to begin his college career at Florida Atlantic. The PCHS baseball season will begin in February, and with this milestone behind him, he can focus on enjoying that last high school season.

Among those in attendance at the signing were Nizamoff ’s parents, John and Amy, sister Tori, Grandparents, Paul and Bobbie Erickson, and several friends.

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813-754-0317 foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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Local » Focus

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Tomlin Tigers- Hillsborough County Champions Front row – (left to right) Jacey Hooker, Drew Knotts, Kasi Maguire, Savana Garrison, Avery Brown, Taylor Edgemon, Ashley Hamel 2nd row – Emily Rypkema, Ashton Sparkman, Kellen Morris, Latoya McIntyre, Terra Brooks, Shayna Lawrence, Linzee Tidey, Jessica Otoole 3rd row – Victoria Garrison, Deanna Rodriguez, Kaitlynne Fincher, Lindsey Shover, Emmiesha McKenzie Back Row – Head Coach – Bert Gideons, Principal Susan Sullivan, Assistant Coach Danny Smith. Photo courtesy of Stacy Lawrence

Tomlin Captures County Basketball Championship

Written By: Joe Bowles

Tomlin Middle School’s Girls Basketball team captured the Hillsborough County Middle School’s Girls Basketball Championship with a closely fought 30-24 victory over Farnell Middle School at the Memorial Middle School gymnasium on October 21.

For Coach Bert Gideons, it was a sweet victory especially after the disappointing losses that occurred the last two years in tournament play.

“This was great for our eighth graders,” said Gideons. “Over the last ten years we have compiled a record of 49-3, with all three losses coming the previous two years. We lost the championship the last two years because of one loss. So this was especially sweet to win our division, then the county championship, and go undefeated with an overall 7-0 record.”

After going 5-0 in the regular season, Tomlin was awarded the number one seed, and received a bye in the opening round.

In round two on October 20, Tomlin faced off against Giunta Middle School. Giunta, a winner over Rampello Middle School in the first round fell to Tomlin by a score of 29-13. Tomlin displayed a stiff defense all game allowing an average of three points

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december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

a quarter to qualify for the championship game in the single elimination tournament.

When Farnell Middle School claimed victories over Young Middle School and Liberty Middle School in the first two rounds, it set the stage for a showdown between Tomlin and Farnell, the number two seed. The championship game was never really in question, despite the close score, with Tomlin pulling out a six-point victory. Terra Brooks and Avery Brown led the scoring for Tomlin with six points each.

Gideons credits the team’s balanced attack with this year’s success, “Even though Terra Brooks was our leading scorer, our team was really balanced all year. It wasn’t like we had to depend on one or two girls to carry the team. Each of our starters averaged about six or seven points a game.”

It was a fitting climax to a great season for Gideons, “This was a special team of girls, all twenty of them. They were not only talented but were honor students…from good families…just a great group of girls.”

Tomlin’s boys’ team did well also, taking second place after falling to Liberty Middle School in the finals 46-37.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

29

Local » Focus

Photo by Starr Anderson

Photo by Starr Anderson

PCHS Transforms into Oz “T Written By: Megan Braglin

here’s no place like home, there’s no place like home, there’s no place like home.” Just as Dorothy repeats these infamous words and clicks her ruby red slippers, the audience is transported to another place in L. Frank Baum’s “Wizard of Oz”. The Plant City Players and the Newsome Performing Arts Department proudly produced smiles on the faces of old and young under the direction of Mr. Van Frost of Plant City High School during the November 11-20, 2010 oerformances. With many behindthe-scenes helping hands the entourage of players whisks the audience into the whimsical and musical world of Oz. One might believe they were actually in the movie when experiencing the caliber of props, scenery, costumes and acting that the cast brought to the stage.

Frost incorporates not only the Plant City and Newsome High School students into the entourage, but also many younger children from area middle and elementary schools. The Lollipop Guild, for example, was almost identical in their nasally rendition of the original. And who could forget the Wicked Witches, both East and West? As their green skin and cackle unnerved many a child, Dorothy and Toto

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december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

were brave and continued on their journey.

The parts were played by talented students who really grasped a clear understanding of the feeling and meaning of the Oz world.

Lori Matta of Dance Carousel donated her time and talents to choreograph the production. Matta’s direction twirled main characters all the way to the dancing Jitterbugs. Countless parents and volunteers assisted in the preparation of the costumes, including their leader Kate Moranville. The bright colors of the Munchkins to the black monotone of the Wicked Witch were every bit as moving as the Oz environment deserves.

The sound, lighting and stage crew did a phenomenal job moving the story along: between the large moveable structure that served as the center of the stage, to the fog of the forest, to the lightning and gusty winds of the tornado, to the shimmering green of Emerald City. One of the most outstanding effects had to be the surprised gasps as monkeys, witches (good and evil), and Dorothy flew through the air! The magic came out effortlessly to the audience through the stage production, acting and efforts of countless people involved with The Wizard of Oz.

Photo by Starr Anderson

Photo by Starr Anderson

SEASON’S GREETINGS SEASON’S GREETINGS

During this holiday season and every day of the year, we wish you all the best.

During this holiday season and every day of the year, Stephen W Shouse, Financial Advisor, AAMS Carly Flynn, Financial Advisor S Alexander Street all the best.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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1

Local » Focus

The Springhead Elementary School chorus performed at the event.

Photo by Sophia Hyde

Hopewell Memorial Presents F Written By: Cheryl Johnston

rom humble beginnings, Hopewell Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens has built a 25-year tradition of honoring our military on Veterans Day.

This year, the 25th Annual Salute to Our Veterans (2010) moved to the new Plant City Veterans Monument Park. More than 500 people enjoyed the ceremony featuring the Springhead Elementary chorus and student essay readers from nine area schools. Perfect weather for a perfect purpose – who could ask for more?

Company president Edwena Haney welcomed guests on behalf of Hopewell as she shared the story of how this tradition was established by the Hopewell staff so many years ago.

Since its inception in 1972, the family owned funeral home and cemetery operations have been under the direction of sisters Margie Willis and Glenda Haney. They are descendants of a pioneer family who in 1968 settled the community they named Hopewell. Their families have lived and worked on the land for seven generations.

For a great history lesson, visit the gravesites of the many, many veterans buried in the peaceful memorial gardens on Highway 39 just south of SR 60 behind the Hopewell Baptist Church.

Haney introduced Mayor Dan Raulerson who offered the city’s thanks for citizen participation before cadets from the Durant High School JROTC presented the colors for the Pledge of Allegiance.

The Springhead Elementary School chorus, directed by Charla Kerwin and Jennifer Burrows, led the singing of the National Anthem.

The Reverend Timothy Knighten offered the invocation to thank God for His blessings and for those who have sacrificed and are now sacrificing to maintain our freedoms.

Interspersed by three additional songs performed by the Springhead chorus members, 30 students read sentiments they had prepared in response to the prompt: What Veterans Day Means to Me. In order of appearance, these were as follows: Bailey Elementary: Kylee Keiser, Laney Mastrovito, Katie Miller Pinecrest Elementary: Francisco Alindogan, Ashley Davis, Adrianna Lane Trapnell Elementary: Josh Lewis, Lincee St. Amand, Cheyenne Renner Valrico Elementary: Hannah Douglas Springhead Elementary: Clayton Brock, Taylor Spicer, Hannah Spivey

Walden Lake Elementary: Lindsey Bowden, Caroline Brummer, Matthew Byars

Turkey Creek Middle School: Darrell Burnside, Vanessa Cornett, Amber Pellett Strawberry Crest High School: Jerald Brown, Colby Johnson, Emily Kyle, Jake Maxwell, Carla Munoz, Austin Rottman, Zachary Sannasardo, Grace Williams

25th Annual Salute to Our Veterans And on behalf of all who attended, Focus would like to say a very special thanks to Hopewell Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens for a quarter-century of patriotic commemoration.

For information or to offer assistance with next year’s Veterans Day celebration, visit online at www.hopewellfuneral.com, in person at 6205 CR 39 South, or by phoning 813-737-3218.

Following the heartfelt student expressions, Navy Lt. Commander Mac Smith and Margie Willis presented each with a commemorative certificate and $15 Barnes & Noble gift card. The ceremony concluded with a moment of silence and “Taps” played on trumpet by Mitch Kerwin.

In her concluding remarks, Edwena Haney invited guests to enjoy an American tradition, Blue Bell ice cream, as they strolled the park to look for familiar names on the brick pavers commemorating local veterans.

Hopewell’s printed program offered special thanks to the organizations that helped make this 25th anniversary of the tradition possible: Rick Lewis at Taylor Rental, Blue Bell Ice Cream, All-a-Bloom Florist and The City of Plant City.

Each student who spoke was presented a certificate by Mac Smith.

Photo by Sophia Hyde

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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Local » Focus

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There was major heart and soul out here - everyone was on their very best cooking day with pride on the line.

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Ford Allison of Great Lakes BBQ and Feed Company was happy to sell his BBQ. “It’s a good event. Really well organized.

Have a good crowd,” he said. We asked his opinion on what sets good BBQ apart from the rest. “The cook. I’ve got years of practice in competitive arenas,” he said.

BBQ meat wasn’t the only thing sold at this outstanding event. Mr. and Mrs. Josh Johnson of Lilly Wicker’s Hot Sauces (www.lillywickers.com) had a great time selling their unique homemade sauces. “It’s not the heat, it’s the flavor,” he said. They focus on bringing out the natural flavors of meat and have had good reception as a company.

Josh Johnson of Lilly Wicker’s Hot Sauces

Pig Jam 2010 T

he Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce hosted it’s 8th annual Pig Jam festival. Forty-nine teams of top-tier BBQ’ers from all over the country came to take part in the state competition.

The prizes were exceptional - $3,000 to Grand Prize winner Grog N Hogs, along with, of course, a ton of pride and bragging rights. There were cash prizes all the way down to 10th place.

Attendees enjoyed free admission. BBQ was for sale in all its delicious formsBBQ ribs, pork, brisket, chicken. The competition was fierce, and everybody who tasted it could say they won. I personally tried the Pulled Pork Sandwich served

by Rusty Baker from Who’s Cookin BBQ of Lakeland. “The pulled pork is incredible,” said Baker. “You’ll find

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The Definite Place to Pig Out Written By: John Ross

that out in a minute.” It was laughably large, and boy-oh-boy it tasted insane. A back-woodsy, outdoorsy smoke taste on maximally tender strung pork. I chose the hotter version of the sauce and the whole thing reminded one that Pig Jam serves BBQ you just don’t find in a restaurant.

There was major heart and soul out here - everyone was on their very best cooking day with pride on the line. It certainly solidified my chances of coming back next year.

Mr. Baker was proud to be part of the event. “It was extremely cloudy this year.

More so than last. Almost couldn’t see,” he said, referring to the barrels of smoke the 49 professional BBQ’ers and several others were happily producing. He speculated that “within two years this will be Florida’s premier BBQ event.”

While the kids took a break from rubbing BBQ sauce all over their hands and faces at Pig Jam, there was a lot of other fun to be had. A rock climbing wall was set up for those nimble and brave enough (and who remembered not to wear flip flops) to show off their scaling talents. Snow cones and cookies were sold, and “moon walks” were another form of kid fun. Local bands played live music throughout the day.

Pig Jam will return next year to call everyone back once again for the world’s best BBQ. Be sure to keep an eye out for details.

Local entertainers show off their skills with stringed instruments

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foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

35

Congratulations

Plant City Dolphins Super Midgets

for taking 1st place at the East Bay Cheer Classic and GCYFC 2010 1st place Conference Champs We are so PROUD of you!

Love, Coach Lindsey, Coach Alicia, Missy and your parents!

Wanna Know what CHAMPIONS look like?? Gimme 2 minutes and 30 seconds and we’ll show you.

Special Thanks to and the Gibbs Family

Dr. Brenda Dukes Chiropractic Physician

DIZZINESS AND CHIROPRACTIC CARE

According to Maarsingh and co-researchers as reported in BMC Family Practice in 2010, A Biomedical Research Organization, dizziness in older patients is a very common occurrence as reported by family medical practitioners. They reported that an 8.3% prevalence of dizziness was reported with females having a higher incidence. It was also reported that the number could be higher as this is a symptom reported by the patient.

Although dizziness can occur in people of any age, it is more common among older adults. A fear of dizziness can cause older adults to limit their physical and social activities. Dizziness can also lead to falls and other injuries.

In 2009 Hawk and Cambron studied the relationship between chiropractic care and dizziness over an 8 week course of chiropractic spinal adjustments. The patient having a “Dizziness Handicap Inventory” baseline score indicating significant dizziness reported an 83% improvement or eradication of the dizziness as a direct result of chiropractic care.

Hawk and Cambron did report that more research is needed, but their findings give solutions to a growing problem among older adults in America

and can positively impact both the lives of Americans and the financial burden of our economy.

These studies along with many others conclude that a drug-free approach of chiropractic care is one of the best solutions for patients with dizziness.

References: Cheryl Hawk, DC, PhDa, Jerrilyn Cambron, DC, PhD, Chiropractic Care for Older Adults: Effects on Balance, Dizziness, and Chronic Pain, Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, (32) (6) Pgs. 431-437 (July 2009) Blessings, Dr. Dukes and Staff Special Note: On December 25 is Christmas WE PRAY THAT THE MIRACLE OF JESUS IS NEAR TO EACH OF YOU ***MERRY CHRISTMAS*** It is our prayer that the gifts of FAITH, HOPE and CHARITY overtake you in the coming New Year – Happy 2011

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

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

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december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Local » Focus

Photo by Robert Coates

First PresbyterianofChurch Celebrates Service to Our Community 125th Anniversary F Written By: Cheryl Johnston

irst Presbyterian Church of Plant City enjoyed a very special anniversary celebration recently. For 125 years, this great church and seven generations of congregants have contributed to our community in countless ways.

Here are just a few: - The FPCPC Learning Center has provided Christian education to preschoolers since the 1960s. (Attention Parents: Presently the school has openings for new students).

- Hull House is a gathering place with a purpose. Weekly it hosts the scouts, Meals on Wheels, Puppets with a Purpose, and approximately 17 meetings for 12-Step Recovery groups.

- As a point of interest and history, 60 Boy Scouts, and at one point every troop member, attained the highest rank of Eagle Scout here. No other U.S. troop holds that honor.

- The congregation actively supports United Food Bank of Plant City.

The church was sanctioned as Plant City Presbyterian Church in 1885, the same year the town was incorporated. The stalwart brick two-story building houses the sanctuary with original mahogany pews, preschool, and fellowship hall.

Along with Hull House and the church office, First Presbyterian occupies the block adjacent to City Hall in the historic district. Approximately 185 members (and growing) call this century-and-a-quarterold church “home.”

Merrin’s great grandson, Joe Merrin, a member since age 9, remains very active, along with his wife Marlene.

Dr. David Delph has led the congregation since 2003, following a distinguished line of 18 ministers. His wife Rebecca and children Ashley and Andrew work with the youth band.

Brand and Martha Laseter, along with their daughters Betsy Hehn and Jean Hehn spearheaded addition of the daycare.

The highly regarded PLC employs 13 while it grows kids God’s way.

Ian Peacock, PCHS band director, guides the music program and special performances.

Dr. Bill and Laura Midyette, former teachers and elders, love that “the congregation is very supportive of missions.” Bill joined the church in 1957 after his Army discharge and practiced dentistry 53 years. Laura said, “For the 17 trips we’ve traveled to Guatemala and Honduras to offer dental care, our church family encouraged us and many even joined the team.”

Captain Frank William Merrin, who moved from Mississippi, was instrumental in the town’s incorporation and the church’s formation. For its first six years, services were held in the Methodist church. According to Merrin’s session notes, “This kindness was greatly appreciated by our people, and kindly remembered still.”

Joann McFarland, who chaired the church’s 100th Anniversary event, spoke of her 51 years “loving every job I was able to do.” She served 43 years as a PLC board member (her daughter taught and grandsons attended). Today, she iron cloths, send 1000 cards a year, and shepherds the telephone mission.

For Christmas, church members purchase gifts for children of families served by the United Food Bank. This year one generous Secret Santa donated $500 to purchase bikes (since he never had one as a child).

The church’s mission statement projects its bright future: “Strengthened and powered by Jesus Christ, we’re growing in unity to fearlessly serve the church and community.” Delph adds, “Our goal to help people find their God-given calling and equip them to pursue it means more and younger families are actively practicing their faith here.”

All are welcome. Sunday School at 9:30 precedes congregational worship at 10:45 a.m. Wednesday nights feature family supper followed by prayer and Bible study.

“God has blessed the church,” according to Laura Midyette, “because through our love of and commitment to His word, we remain teachable.” She added, “Our active outreach unifies our church family in love.

Our desire is to continue, by the grace of God, to ‘Be There” as we have been for 125 years.”

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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Local » Focus Youth Appreciation Week, the Youth Oratorical Contest ($1500 scholarship awarded to the winner), the Respect for Law Program, and the City-Wide Easter Egg Hunt are just a part of the club’s yearly calendar of activities. They also sponsor a Little League Baseball team, volunteer at the Stepping Stone Farm for Girls, and conduct the Basketball Tri-Star Competition, a passing, shooting, and dribbling contest for youth ages 8-16.

Earlier this year, in an effort to give back to the community on a long-term basis, the Optimists chose to donate $40,000 over a three-year period to provide equipment and amenities to Ellis-Methvin Park. Half of the commitment has already been given.

Recreation and Parks Director Jack Holland receives a $4,000 check from Optimist Club President Jeff Ogden. Because of the financial assistance from the Optimist Club, no child is turned away from Recreation & Parks Department activities due to their inability to pay. Photo courtesy of Jack Holland

Friend of Youth T Written By: Joe Bowles

he Optimist Club of Plant City held their sixteenth annual Plant City Optimist Club/Plant City Recreation Department Golf Tournament on October 23 at the Walden Lake Golf and Country Club. The Plant City club is one of more than 2900 local clubs that make up the Optimist International that is dedicated to “Bringing out the Best in Kids.”

The Plant City Optimist Club whose motto is “Friend of Youth,” has a 48 year history dating back to 1962. Their desire is to “help empower young people to be the best they can be.” That empowerment begins with raising funds to help support more than a dozen activities each year which directly impact the youth of this area. The annual golf tournament is one of the club’s two annual fundraising events.

Tournament director, Walt Arnold, spoke of the success of this year’s event, “The event went real well. We had 64 golfers, which is real good in today’s economy.

Walden Lake did a great job and an excellent dinner was catered by Grandpa Johnson’s Barbeque.”

Jack Holland, City of Plant City

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Optimists’ Golf Tournament Directly Impacts Youth

Recreation Director, current Optimist Club member, and former club president spoke of Arnold’s leadership, “Walt did a tremendous job with this tournament.

He involved the membership, led the drive to contact hole sponsors and in-kind sponsors. He fired us up and the results speak for themselves.”

Indeed they do. The Optimist Club partners with the Plant City Parks and Recreation Department on many of their activities such as the Youth Soccer Program. Last year this league registered more than 1550 boys and girls ages 4-19 on 140 teams. The Youth Flag Football Program, with more than 400 boys and girls ages 4-14 on 40 teams, and the Youth Basketball Program, with over 520 boys and girls ages 8-16 on 48 teams, are two other programs that the Optimist Club and Recreation Department mutually support.

From Holland’s unique perspective, he understands the importance of organizations such as the Optimist Club and their contributions to the advancement of the goals the city has set in providing recreational activities for its youth, “Since the inception of the

Arnold, a former club president and a 36 year member also wanted to remind the community of the club’s other fundraiser, their annual Christmas Tree Sale that takes place daily until Christmas on the campus of Plant City High School. The lot will be open weekdays 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and weekends 9:00 AM until 9:00 PM. All proceeds help the Optimist Club in their continued quest to be a “Friend of Youth.”

Optimist Club in 1962, they have been a strong and consistent supporter of the Recreation Department and its programs.”

“

The Plant City Optimist Club whose motto is “Friend of Youth,” has a 48 year history dating back to 1962.

”

Winning team (left to right): Kevin Salsbery, Ray Pletcher, Stan Jeffords, Rob Dwyer, with tournament director Walt Arnold Photo courtesy of Jack Holland

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

39

Local » Focus

Local Mother’s “Hero” A

both.

mother’s sacrificial love extends and never ends. This is a story within a story, and love is at the center of

Plant City mother Earla Turcich e-mailed a true story to Oprah Winfrey in hopes her oldest daughter and “hero”, Jill Welsh, a University of Florida graduate student, would be granted a ticket for an upcoming Oprah show. It worked and the ticket’s date was - November 16 – to be aired Monday, November 22, 2010.

The real blessing came when Oprah surprised attendees very early in the show with news they would be recipients of Oprah’s Ultimate Giveaway, Part 2 on this, her last show ever, the 25th Anniversary event.

Historically, Oprah has used the giveaways as a way to reward “givers and heroes” who selflessly do for others. In Welsh, she found a giver for sure. Consider this

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posted list of Jill’s interests: Philanthropy Chair (of Alpha Delta Pi sorority), Signing Gators, Volunteering, Helping Others in Any Way I Can, Watching Oprah, Psychology, and Children.

Words can’t describe the over-the-top reactions of the invitees and their guests when they realized what Oprah was saying. You simply had to see it.

Turcich was moved to write the celebrity because Jill did something very special for her boyfriend, Army 1st Lieutenant Stephen Pineda, to encourage him as he departed in September to return mid-tour to duty in Iraq.

As an aside here, readers should know this couple has a standing joke about her falling asleep in movies they watch together. When she made him attend The Time Traveler’s Wife – he watched, she slept.

continued on page 41

Receives Oprah’s Ultimate Giveaway Written By: Cheryl Johnston

continued from page 40 The West Point graduate (2008, History), Pineda, was concerned for his family and Jill, worried about their fear for his safety in Baghdad during his first tour overseas.

Naturally, Jill was concerned about him.

So, to help him through the goodbyes to family and friends, she placed a handwritten note on page 47 (his favorite #) inside an Atlanta airport’s bookstore copy of Time Traveler’s Wife, trusting the store wouldn’t sell six copies too quickly.

Then she told Pineda where to search for her encouragement. When he found the note, he told her, “It helped me so much.”

Once Turcich sent the e-mail, she forgot it until Becky from the Oprah Show called to ask if Jill could be a guest and bring a guest. Needless to say, she could, but because of work, Turcich could not. In her place, Jill invited her graduate school friend, Maggie Clark.

The story within the story is all about the Turcich family – spouses Earla and Jim and their girls, Jill, 24, and PCHS freshman Holly, 15. According to Jill, “We learned about giving by watching our parents all of our lives. Their giving is done in secret, not to gain attention for themselves. Many times as a family, we’ve enjoyed Christmas shopping, wrapping gifts, and leaving them anonymously for others in need. It made our holidays special.”

When Pineda learned of Jill’s upcoming trip, he told her, “You deserve to be there more than anyone I know.” He and Army comrades in Baghdad watched the show together.

Typical of many givers and heroes, most attendees, including Jill and her friend Maggie, were thinking of who they could share the new blessings with or how they could help someone else with what they’d been given. While Oprah gave the OK to use the goodies as they wished, she also suggested givers need sometimes to learn to receive and enjoy for their own use.

One gift Jill won’t be giving away is the 2012 Volkswagen Beetle that arrives in May 2011. Show guests will receive the car even before VW dealers receive their inventory. Welsh said, “I really needed another car, because mine’s struggling and I’m driving Steve’s while he’s overseas. But he’ll be back this month.”

Welsh, an APi sorority member, is seeking a doctorate in School Psychology with a

specialization in low-incidence disabilities, specifically Autism Spectrum Disorders and Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing populations mainstreamed in general education classrooms. She hopes to help kids with disabilities or behavioral problems and loves “the idea of working with students, parents, and teachers and believing in students, giving them the same chance to succeed as anyone else.”

One telling trait Welsh shared is, “I can’t stand it when people feel left out. I will go out of my way to make sure they feel included.”

Welsh knows her passion, too, also posted on Facebook: “I love American Sign Language. My heart pounds every time I hear it mentioned and meeting deaf people is like meeting someone famous for me.”

It’s important to understand the philosophy of faith and service to others that guides this Plant City family. Earla Turcich believes “God does good things for us and if I’m willing, He will use me as a conduit to do something special for others.”

Welsh concurred in a revealing look at her young life through responses to the popular “25 Random Facts About Me” social media game. Her words read: “I have the most amazing family and I would give my life for them. My Mom is the most giving person I have ever known. She goes out of her way to help people every day, and I admire her and hope I can be as selfless as her.”

This selfless mother helped her daughter achieve a lifetime dream. Jill’s friends are aware of her “87 things to do before I die” list. She notes ‘Make a difference’ is on the list 3 times.” Mom knew another desire on Jill’s list was to meet Oprah one day – looks like mom’s divinely inspired e-mail helped God accomplish that one!

Welsh is definitely a giver. She wrote also, “ I love helping people and try to help at least 3 people a day in some way. I totally believe Paying It Forward could change the world.”

She knows herself well, too. Her “Random Fact #25” offers, “I have a strong faith in God and have always tried to follow my heart to find the path He has planned for me. I think I am on the right track. ....”

To that, Miss Welsh, we would agree.

As Oprah says, “Good things happen to good people when you least expect it.” You and your family are definitely among our hometown heroes. foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

41

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december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Local » Focus

Teen Santa’s host a garage sale to raise money to purchase Christmas gifts for children in need. Pictured: JP Coton, Trent Lott, Brennan Smith, Justin Keel, Kent Humphrey and Nicholas Daly

Teen Santas W orldwide, Santa Claus is known by the names Saint Nicholas, Father Christmas, Kris Kringle or simply Santa. According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, Santa Claus is a “plump whitebearded and red-suited old man in modern folklore who delivers presents to good children at Christmastime.” In Plant City, Santa Claus is also known by the names Justin Keel, Nicholas Daley, Trent Lott, Kent Humphrey, JP Coton, and Brennan Smith. These teen Santas can be described as student leaders who dress casually in blue jeans, t-shirts and flip flops and who deliver presents to less fortunate children at Christmas.

In 2009, the group of teens decided they wanted to reach out to help others in their community. According to Trent,

Focus on Helping Others Written By: Kelleigh Klein

“We realized how lucky we are and wanted to help less fortunate children in our community have at least one gift for Christmas.” The boys asked for monetary donations from parents, friends and local businesses in order to purchase gifts for children in need at Christmas. One of the parents, Billy Keel, told the group he would match up to $500 of the funds they raised to help with their worthy cause. In total, the boys went shopping with $1,000 to buy Christmas gifts for children in need.

we came up with the idea to have a garage sale.” The boys invited their families, friends and neighbors to support their efforts by donating items to sell at their garage sale. With months of planning and collecting items, the garage sale was a huge success. Kent said, “Overall we more than doubled our money from last year.” Price tags on the garage sale items were as little as .25 and as much as $20. According to Justin, “some people just came by and gave us donations up to $100 telling us we were doing a good thing by helping others.”

In 2010, Keel, Lott, Humphrey, Coton, Smith and Daley once again decided to raise money to buy Christmas gifts for children in need. According to Nicholas, “This year we wanted to create a different idea to raise money,rather than simply ask people like we did last year. That’s when

With the monies raised, the six Santas went shopping for gifts for children less fortunate. They picked out an array of gifts including baby toys, clothing, sporting goods, remote control cars, and makeup. According to JP, “Those of us who have sisters were put in charge of

shopping for girl gifts. Our baskets were filled with pink items.” In addition to shopping for the gifts, the boys will also be involved in distributing the gifts during the Christmas holiday.

“We were very glad to be able to do more to help kids this year,” said Brennan.

According to Billy Keel, “When this whole thing started, I was really just trying to get the boys to understand that it is personally rewarding to help those less fortunate. They really took the project and ran with it. Last year they were able to raise around $1,000 for toys and food.

This year the number is above $1,500. I am very proud of them for making this a success and hope it is something they will continue. I know it is a life lesson they will never forget.”

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

43

Local » did you know

Henry B. Plant The Businessman and Visionary part 1 of 2 submitted By: Plant City Photo Archives & History Center

A

fter whom, or what, is Plant City named?

Many people in the Plant City area know the answer to this. But, many people do not. Those that do know will tell you that Plant City was named after Henry B. Plant. The next question then is who is or was Henry B. Plant?

Let’s take a look at what several publications have to say about this man. There is much that has been written about Henry Plant, but not many people really know much about him. Here are a few items of interest, we think, about the man after whom this city is named.

Yes, everyone seems to know that Henry Bradley Plant was a Connecticut Yankee. Let’s look a little more deeply into that. We’ve been reading a book, Steamships of the Two Henrys; Being An Account of the Maritime Activities of Henry Morrison Flagler and Henry Bradley Plant, by Edward A. Mueller, and find some interesting information about Henry Plant. We will also review some of the information in the book, Plant City; Its Origin and History, by Quintilla Geer Bruton and David E. Bailey, Jr., which provides information about the area and the coming of the railroad.

Henry Bradley Plant was a focused, astute, tenacious businessman of considerable vision.

Although dealing with a changing family environment, challenging business cycles, war between the South and the North, industrial inefficiency, and more, he persisted. Henry B. Plant became one of the wealthiest men in America and presided, with a number of trusted assistants, over an empire consisting of railroads, steamship lines, hotels, express systems, telegraph systems, real estate and more.

Henry Bradley Plant was born in Branford, Connecticut, October 27, 1819, to Anderson and Betsey Plant, farmers of modest economic status. The Plant family traces its roots to the Puritans and John Plant, who left England and settled in Hartford, Connecticut, about 1639.

Henry’s younger sister, Eliza Ann, died in infancy, and his father died when Henry was only six years old. After his mother remarried, Henry lived with the family in Martinsburg, New York, and New Haven, Connecticut, where he completed his studies at the Lancasterian school. Henry’s paternal grandmother offered him the opportunity to attend Yale University to study for the clergy – but young Henry had other ideas.

About 1837, at age 18, Henry B. Plant took a job on a steamboat line operating on the Long

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december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Island Sound between New York City and New Haven, Connecticut. This was his introduction to steamboats and the express industry, which is basically transporting goods from one point to another.

About 1842, Henry B. Plant, 23 years of age, accepted employment with Beecher Express Company in New Haven. That year he also married Ellen Elizabeth Blackstone, whose father was state representative James Blackstone.

Over the next decade, Henry B. Plant learned the express business, delivery systems, terminal operations, agencies, and business contracts.

There were a number of business mergers and acquisitions and in the early 1850s Plant found himself heading up the New York operations of Adams Express Company, a large, widespread, and reputable firm.

About 1851, apparently still with the Adams Express Company, Plant worked with a group of engineers and businessmen who were in the process of planning and building the Illinois Central Railroad. Through this he gained insight into the railroad building industry.

In 1853, Ellen Plant, who apparently had contracted tuberculosis, was advised by her doctor to go to Florida, where the climate would be more beneficial to her recovery. The Adams Express Company asked Henry Plant to review the company’s southern operations and advise as to its possible expansion. In March 1853 the Plants left New York by steamship and arrived in Jacksonville, Florida, April 1. Over time Mrs. Plant improved.

After returning to New York, however, Mrs. Plant’s health deteriorated and in 1854 they went south again, this time taking residence in Augusta, Georgia. Henry Plant, now in charge of the Adams Express Company’s southern operations, made his headquarters in Augusta, and traveled throughout the south monitoring current express activity and planning improvements. The express business involved all possible means of transport – stage coach, railroad, steamboat, carriage, barge, etc. – whatever method the inadequate transportation systems of the day offered. Henry Plant studied it all.

The year 1861 was pivotal for Henry B. Plant, now in his 41st year. His wife, Ellen Elizabeth, died February 28, 1861. Also, with the continuing drum beat of the impending probable conflict between North and South, the Adams Express Company, headquartered in New York City, became concerned about

possibly losing its southern operations. After his years operating in the south, Henry Bradley Plant believed this would, indeed, occur and he convinced the company to sell its southern system to him.

Plant and nine associates acquired the Adams Express Company assets in ten southern states for $500,000. They reorganized the business into the Adams Southern Express Company, later known as the Southern Express Company.

The drum beat of Civil War turned to bullets on April 12, 1861, and Henry B. Plant’s express business had a complete new set of facts to address. And he did. In May 1861 Plant’s company announced it would carry packages of clothing for the southern soldiers free of charge.

Henry B. Plant was not yet in the business of operating railroads or steamship lines, but he was learning more about how to deal with them and with their inefficiencies. His Southern Express Company, in spite of the inherent transportation systems difficulties, was always outperforming the Confederacy’s own postal service, and other systems.

The Confederate government appointed Plant to act as collector of government tariffs on all shipments handled by the express company.

Plant’s express company was also chosen to handle transfers of Confederacy monies from point to point. Additionally, the express company’s employees were exempt from conscription for military services.

Let’s take a look at just two of the problems that faced Henry Plant and his express company – time zones and railroad track gauges.

Just before the Civil War (1860), there were over 100 time zones in the U.S. The time of day was a local matter based on 12 Noon being when the sun was at its highest point in the sky. Most cities and towns used some form of solar time and it was maintained on a well-known clock.

It was possible to take a train from one city to another and arrive before you departed the first city.

Imagine the difficulty in constructing the express company shipping schedule where each city kept its own time. It was not until 12 Noon, November 18, 1883, that standard time in time zones was instituted in the U.S. and Canada by the railroads. It was not established in the U.S. by law until the Standard Time Act of March 19, 1918.

There was also the problem, especially in the south, of the short line railroads, which sometimes ran only 40 miles, or less, and shipments had to be off-loaded then reloaded onto another railroad. The real problem here, however, is that there was no standard railroad track gauge – that is the distance between rails – so lines could not be connected and railway cars and engines could not run on different gauge tracks.

At the beginning of the Civil War, there were more than twenty different railroad track gauges being used in the U.S. and they varied from three feet to six feet. There were 113 different railroad companies in the Confederate states and they operated on at least three different gauges of track. The larger southern railway companies preferred a five-foot gauge, but other railways chose their own gauges. The British, who manufactured the first engines that were set up to run in America in the 1830s, set the standard gauge at four feet eight and one-half inches (1.4m), and this was generally accepted in the north – but not totally.

(It was not until 1886 that the U.S. government established the official standard gauge as 4’8½ “.

Henry Plant managed to convert all his narrow or broader gauge tracks to standard gauge by the fall of 1886.)

Henry B. Plant knew the inefficiencies of the railroads and knew he could do better. He also dreamed of a connecting railroad and steamboat system that would serve the south and provide access to Florida. He was to work on these plans from the late 1870s throughout the 1880s.

In 1863 Henry Plant was stricken with a serious illness and afterwards, on doctor’s orders, he spent most of the next two years traveling – England, France, Italy, Switzerland, Canada, and then to New York City, where he was when the war ended in April 1865. He immediately returned to Augusta and went to work developing and expanding his express business in the south.

Plant remarried in 1873, at age 54, and chose Margaret Loughman, his Irish housekeeper at his Branford, Connecticut, home. They had no children from this marriage. She was reputed to have artistic talent and influenced interior design and furnishing in some of Plant’s hotels and other real estate. They traveled to Europe seeking ornate and elaborate furnishings and decorative items.

In 1879 Henry Plant began acquiring railroads.

He and associates bought the bankrupt Atlantic and Gulf Railroad (Georgia) and reorganized it as the Savannah Florida and Western Railroad.

This was the beginning of what was to become The Plant System. In 1880 he purchased the Savannah and Charleston Railroad at a foreclosure sale. He set his sights on Jacksonville and in 1880 acquired the charter of the East Florida Railroad and built a railroad from Jacksonville north to Georgia.

Sources: Plant City Photo Archives and History Center; Quintilla Geer Bruton and David E. Bailey, Jr., Plant City; Its Origin and History, privately published, 1984; Edward A. Mueller, Steamships of the Two Henrys; Being An Account of the Maritime Activities of Henry Morrison Flagler and Henry Bradley Plant, privately published,1996.

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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Local » chamber of commerce

GREATER PLANT CITY

On November 4th the Plant City Economic Development Council and the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held their Eighteenth Annual BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARDS BANQUET at the Red Rose Inn & Suites. Congratulations to the winners: Growing Business (2-10 years in business Timberlane Pet Hospital & Resort Small Business (1-15 full time employees) Barbara Powers Promotions Mid-Size Business (16-50 full time employees) Dinosaur World Large Business (51+ full time employees) Felton’s Meat & Produce A Special Business Exemplary Community Contribution Award was presented to Carrabba’s Italian Grill.

This was a great event and one that everyone looks forward to each year.

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE submitted By: bruce rodwell

Trees which are on display at 24 businesses that are participating in the Chamber’s 2nd Annual Christmas Tree Contest. Once you have visited all 24 businesses and take your completed card to the Chamber office, you will be entered in the drawing to win a $150.00 VISA gift card. What a great prize to win just before Christmas! The drawing will take place on Monday, December 21 st. at 3 PM at the Chamber office, 106 North Evers Street in downtown Plant City.

The businesses participating in this year’s contest are listed below: All A Bloom, 116 North Collins Street The Artistry Salon & Spa, 1505 S. Alexander St., Suite 102 Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon Street Cameron Financial Management, 110 West Reynolds Street, Suite 109 Crawford-Hill Interiors, Inc., 1407 East Baker Street

Sisters & Company, 104 East Reynolds Street Snyder Investments & Financial Services, 1703 Thonotosassa Rd., Suite B South Florida Baptist Hospital, 301 North Alexander Street Sunshine State Federal Savings, 102 West Baker Street The UPS Store, 117 West Alexander Street United Food Bank & Services of Plant City, 702 East Alsobrook Street Wells Memorial Funeral Home, 1903 West Reynolds Street Its very simple….stop by one of the businesses shown above and get started by placing their sticker on the card they will give you. Then go to the other 23 businesses and do the same thing and you are on your way. Nothing to buy just a lot of fun and a chance to win a $150. VISA gift card. Take your completed card to the Chamber office and you will be entered in the drawing for the gift card.

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Creative Flowers by Glenn, 116 West Alsobrook Street

How about that 8th Annual PIG JAM? The weather was what the Chamber likes to call

Dental Associates of Walden Woods, 512 East Alexander Street

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WEATHER. It was simply beautiful and the crowd, estimated at some 15,000 enjoyed some great barbeque.

Helping Hands Thrift Store, 702 East Alsobrook Street, Unit G

Looking for something to do while taking a break from holiday shopping? Check out the Historic Union Station located at 102 N. Palmer Street. It is open Thursday, Friday and

Holiday Inn Express, 2102 North Park Road

Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM. Admission is free.

Jarrett-Scott Ford, 2000 East Baker Street

The number of families who don’t eat at least one meal a day is growing at a steady rate right here in our community. With the economic situation the way it is, the UNITED FOOD BANK & SERVICES OF PLANT CITY is asking you to remember them this holiday season. The gift of a meal is a small sacrifice that can mean so much to someone in desperate need of food.

The event was held at the Randy Larson Four-Plex which is adjacent to the Plant City Stadium. It is sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society. Over $15,000 in prizes were awarded the winners. This event attracts amateurs and professionals alike. There was even a kids contest.

Hope Lutheran Church, 2001 North Park Road

A big tip of the Chamber hat and kudos to Chris Sparkman and Jodi Smith, who Chair this event along with the help of several Chamber members and community volunteers, for putting this event on for our community to enjoy.

Mango Family Cleaners, 2404 James L. Redman Parkway

Get out your 2011 calendars and mark the date for next year’s 9th annual Pig Jam. That date is SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19. You will not want to miss it. Chris and Jodi told me they are already making plans to make the 2011 event even bigger and better! Is that even possible?

You just wait and see. I bet it will be.

Platinum Bank, 1804 James L. Redman Parkway

********** There is still time! You have until Monday, December 20th to check out the Christmas

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Par Interiors, 101 South Collins Street

Red Rose Inn & Suites, 2011 North Wheeler Street Regions Bank, 2303 Thonotosassa Road Regions Bank, 2903 James L. Redman Parkway

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Last year, the Food Bank served over 19,000 clients. This year’s numbers are expected to be even higher. They are asking for your help in providing food to feed the hungry. They accept donations of food and money at their location, 702 East Alsobrook Street, Suite H. Their hours of operation are Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9 to 1 and Tuesday and Thursday 1:30 to 5:30.

You can call them for information at 813-7640625. **********

Want to see some great softball action?

The INTERNATIONAL SOFTBALL FEDERATION which is headquartered right here in Plant City is hosting the Easton Foundation International Softball Federation Youth Softball World Cup. Their will be teams represented from Canada, the Philippines, Russia, Puerto Rico, the Bahamas and Brazil as well as domestic teams from California, Florida, Oregon, Pennsylvania and Colorado.

Games start December 30 and continue through January 7th.

Volunteers are needed for this event. No experience is necessary. You can contact the Softball Federation at 813-864-0100 for information on how you can help. ********** Some dates for your calendar: December 17 & 18 - Visit Santa at the Red Caboose, 908 Joe McIntosh Rd. Hours are 2 to 6. Call 759-3345 for information.

December 18 - Car Show in downtown Plant City. Starts at 4 and goes to 8 PM December 19 - Black Heritage Celebration, Inc. is holding a Santa Sled Fest around Sam Cooper Lake. Call Sharon Moody at 453-7134 for information and time December 20 - LAST DAY TO VOTE IN THE CHAMBER’S CHRISTMAS TREE CONTEST January 12 - Chamber’s Contact Breakfast at the Red Rose Inn & Suites. Starts at 7:30 Call the Chamber to RSVP 754-3707 January 14 - Start of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Cultural Arts Festival. Call 757-6760 for information on dates and the several events taking place January 15 - Strawberry Classic Car Show in downtown Plant City featuring 1986 and older cars and trucks. An added attraction is an exhibit of specialty trucks of all years. Starts at 4 and continues to 8 PM January 20 - Ed Verner in concert at the Photo Archives & History Center, 106 S. Evers Street. Reception is at 7:30 with the concert starting at 8 PM. Admission is $50. and reservations are required due to limited seating.

YOUR GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BOARD OF DIRECTORS, MEMBERS AND STAFF WISH YOU AND YOURS ALL THE JOYS OF THE SEASON AND A HEALTHY , PROSPEROUS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR.

CHAMBER ribbon cuttings November 16th Ribbon Cutting All About Graphics, Inc. Tami Ham 645 East Alexander Street, Plant City, FL 33563 Phone: 813-478-9336 www.allaboutgraphicsinc.com

October 19th Ribbon Cutting SAGE - Professional Christian Counseling Center, LLC Nancy L. Egbert, LCSW 110 East Reynolds Street, Suite 807 Phone: 813-752-7000

November 23rd Ribbon Cutting Merrill Lynch Wealth Management E. Snow Martin III and Linda Greenfield 201 North Franklin Street, Suite 3500, Tampa, FL 33602 Phone: 813-273-8500 www.totalmerrill.com

December 2nd Ribbon Cutting Beautiful You Salon Karey Noria and Blanca Aquilera 702 East Alsobrook Street, Suite D, ‘Plant City, FL 33563-6613 Phone: (813) 704-5985

December 3rd Ribbon Cutting Kenny Young, L.M.T. 607 South Alexander Street, Suite 207, Plant City, Fl 33563-5050 Phone: (813) 298-7820 Email: kennyyounglmt@gmail.com

November 9th Ribbon Cutting MTOclean of Hillsborough County Rebecca Williams 333 North Falkenburg Road, Suite B233, Tampa, FL 33619 Phone: 813-571-1933 www.mtocleantampa.com

December 9th Ribbon Cutting Top Hat Balloon Creations, LLC Contact: Lynn Galindo Phone: (813) 716-3369 Website: www.tophatballoon.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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Thank you To The

PlanT CiTy CommuniTy for The honor of Winning

large Business of The year

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from

Visit our website: www.feltonsmarket.com Call for special order: 813-752-1548 Walker Plaza, 617 N. Maryland Ave., Plant City, FL 33563 ATM Available at Customer Services. TECO Payments Accepted

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Happy

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Birthday to

Milee Gale Hasting!

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

You are growing so fast. Daddy and Mommy are so glad you are still our little Snuggle Bug!

We Love You Toot Box! Mommy, Daddy, Cole and Ava! 48

december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Get Your Advance Tickets Today! www.flstrawberryfestival.com

MAR. 3 - MAR. 13, 2011 - PLANT CITY, FLORIDA

KENNY ROGERS

Artists Appearing on the Wish Farms Soundstage: Thu. Mar. 3 10:30 am Thu. Mar. 3 3:30 pm Thu. Mar. 3 7:30 pm

Fri. Mar. 4 3:30 pm Fri. Mar. 4 7:30 pm

Sat. Mar. 5 1:00 pm Sat. Mar. 5 3:30 pm Sat. Mar. 5 7:30 pm

Sun. Mar. 6 3:30 pm Sun. Mar. 6 7:30 pm

Mon. Mar. 7 3:30 pm Mon. Mar. 7 7:30 pm

Tues. Mar. 8 3:30 pm Tues. Mar. 8 7:30 pm

Wed. Mar. 9 3:30 pm Wed. Mar. 9 7:30 pm

Thu. Mar. 10 10:30 am Thu. Mar. 10 3:30 pm Thu. Mar. 10 7:30 pm

Fri. Mar. 11 3:30 pm Fri. Mar. 11 7:30 pm

Sat. Mar. 12 3:30 pm

Sat. Mar. 12 7:30 pm

Sun. Mar. 13 3:30 pm Sun. Mar. 13 7:30 pm

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Chubby Checker Chris Young

$15 & $20 $20 & $25

Tanya Tucker Rick Springfield

$15 & $20 $20 & $25

TANYA TUCKER

RICK SPRINGFIELD

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Allstar Weekend & Jennette McCurdy Billy Ray Cyrus

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Easton Corbin Lady Antebellum

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GEORGE JONES

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Concert dates and times are subject to change

Free Grandstand seating, 3:30 & 7:30 pm are on a first come, first seated basis.

Order: www.flstrawberryfestival.com or 813-754-1996

THE JUDDS (The Last Encore)

JENNETTE MCCURDY

BILLY RAY CYRUS

Cool Whip • Stingray Chevrolet • TECO • Premium Leisure • Southern Ford Dealers • CF Industries • Patterson Companies Mahaffey Tent Rentals • Verizon Wireless • Candyland Warehouse foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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The Florida Strawberry Growers Association was founded in 1982. Local growers Tommy Brock, Carl Grooms, Bob Hinton, Johnnie St. Martin and Allen Williford are credited with founding the organization. It took a couple of years, but once it was established, the association began to support the industry through its mission – research and promotion of the strawberry industry and to provide a voice for the strawberry growing industry.

Twenty-eight years later, the Florida Strawberry Growers Association has a lot to be proud of. The association is directly credited with making Plant City the Winter Strawberry Capital of the world. Today, Plant City and the surrounding area account for more than 15 percent of the winter strawberries grown world wide. The area has taken advantage of the local conditions to carve a niche to create a large portion of the winter supply for the worldwide demand of this delicious crop.

The Florida Strawberry Growers Association consists primarily of strawberry growers in the area, but there are also corporate members and nursery members. One of the ways the Florida Strawberry Growers Association promotes the industry is through Florida Agriculture in the Classroom (FAITC). It is a non-profit organization that develops training and materials for Agriculture teachers. The organization also provides grant money for teachers. One of the materials they develop is the Florida Strawberry Handout Packets for teachers. Teachers who are interested in the materials can visit their website at www. flastrawberry.com The organization works to provide a 3-day turnaround time once your request is made.

To celebrate all their work, each year the Florida Strawberry Growers Association holds a recognition event – the Strawberry Jam. This year’s event held Saturday evening, December 7th, was their 28th annual.

The event promotes the industry by recognizing achievements of the previous season and provides a platform for the organization to give back to the community through college scholarships. The Association

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Gary Ford, Winner of the Classic Award

has continued to focus on youth. They are the future of our industry and our community. The Florida Strawberry Growers Association has awarded over $300,000.00 in scholarships over the past 28 years.

In the last 10 years, the Association began an effort to help some of the charitable organizations. The Florida Strawberry Growers Association’s Executive Committee designates the benefiting charity. Toys for Tots, the recipient for the past few years, helps needy children throughout the United States experience the joy of Christmas.

This year, each person attending the event was asked to bring a gift to be donated to Toys for Tots.

Over 200 guests attended the dinner and awards event, during which a highlight was the induction of the 2010 Strawberry Hall of Fame inductees. The Strawberry Hall of Fame is the Florida Strawberry Growers Association’s most prestigious award. It is presented to a person or team in the industry that has devoted a lifetime to the support of Florida Strawberries. This year’s inductees were Rodney Hutto, Charles E. Lawton and Hollis Maxwell. Several other awards are given during the event. Sue Harrell, Director of Marketing, said, “The Association has a Scholarship Committee, Chaired by Mike Lott. The committee reviews all the scholarship applicants and makes the selections. They also work with a list of eligible recipients for each of the awards. They make recommendations for each award and the recommendations are passed to the Florida Strawberry Growers Association Executive Committee for approval.”

* Over 200 Acres – Astin Strawberry Exchange * Under 200 Acres – Dixie Growers

* 1-40 Acres – Big S Farm – Owner Sam Astin III * 41-79 Acres – Trapnell Road Farm – Owner Gary Wishnazki * 80 plus acres – E.W. Simmons – Owner Billy Simmons The First Flat Award winner was Ferris Farms – Dudley Calfee, the Workhorse Award winner was David Spivey, the Classic Award went to Gary Ford, and the Public Service Award went to Hugh Gramling.

Scholarships are also a big part of the Florida Strawberry Growers Association’s efforts, and for the Strawberry Jam event. The Best Flat Contest is their primary fundraiser for their scholarship fund. The contest is held earlier in the year during the Florida Strawberry Festival each of three nights during the plant sale, swine sale, and steer sale. The money is raised by growers who take the time to pick a perfect flat of strawberries, and then enter the flat in the contest for judging. The judges are chosen at random each night. The remaining flats that are not winners are sold for $25 each. The scholarships wouldn’t be possible without the event and certainly not without the support of the growers, the community supporters and those who bid on the winning flats – the handlers / brokers.

The event also features a live auction at the end of the evening. This year, a Strawberry Guitar, donated by Colorful Harvest, was one of the more unique items.

Special guest Jerrod Parker, played the guitar. The money raised from the auction went to the Rodney Hutto Memorial fund. They raised $3,250.00! Special thanks to Charlie Young for his support and donation.

Hollis Maxwell was inducted into the Florida Strawberry Hall of Fame. foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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* Ali Boggs, is attending the Florida Institute of Technology * Derek Harvey is attending the University of Tampa * Somer Harvey is attending the University of Tampa * Kelsey Hull is attending Hillsboro Community College * Kati Maxwell is transferring to Keiser University * Courtney Newsome is attending Hillsboro Community College

and transferring to the University of Florida * Bryant Tindle is attending Hillsboro Community College and

plans to attend the University of Florida * Megan Young is attending Hillsboro Community College and

plans to attend the University of Florida This is the tenth year of the Strawberry Ambassador program, which honors four outstanding students who will represent the Association for the upcoming season. * Calli Jo Parker is a student at Plant City High School, * Chrissy Grimmer is a student at Plant City High School, * Brittany Coleman is a student at Durant High School and * Larren Schelb is a student at Strawberry Crest High School

There are seven very special people who touched the lives of those in the industry and in our community. Their memories were honored through these scholarships.

* The Osborn Griffin Memorial Scholarship Recipient Tiffany Dale is a senior at the University of Florida * The Steve Dukes Memorial Scholarship Recipient DeAnna DeShong is currently attending Hillsboro Community College and will later transfer to the University of Florida * The Brenda St. Martin Memorial Scholarship Recipient Garrett Roberts is attending Durant High School and plans to attend Hillsboro Community College and the University of Florida * The Marty Sewell Memorial Scholarship Recipient Marshal Sewell will attend the University of Florida in beginning in January 2011 * The Eddie Jones and Trenda Gude Memorial Scholarship Recipient Hannah Cendening attends Hillsboro Community College * The Rodney Hutto Memorial Scholarship Recipient Seth Poppell is a senior at Durant High School

Past scholarship recipients have gone on to do great things in agriculture. Some past recipients and their accomplishments include Marshal Sewell – State FFA President in 2009, Kaitlin Cribbs – State FFA Vice President 2010, Anthony Peace, an Ag teacher at Strawberry Crest High School, and Lauren Der, who was crowned Strawberry Queen the same year she served as an Ambassador.

If you’re interested in becoming a member of the Florida Strawberry Growers Association, there are several membership opportunities: Associate and Corporate member, Grower members, Handler / Broker members and Nursery members. The Associate and Corporate membership has 5 levels: Associate ($250), Bronze ($500), Silver ($1,000), Gold ($2,000) and Platinum ($5,000). Grower and Handler / Broker membership opportunities have varying costs depending on farm production and the number of flats handled / brokered for members, respectively. You can visit their website at www.flastrawberry.com, or you can reach them by phone at 813-752-6822.

to R) Seth Poppell, DeAnna DeShong, Memorial Scholorship recipients: (L ny Dale and Hannah Cendening Marshal Sewell, Garrett Roberts, Tiffa

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R) Calli Jo Parker, Ambassador Award recipients: (L to Lauren Schelb Brittany Coleman, Chrissy Grimer and

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

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foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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The Farmer with the

Santa Beard

Known for his beard, Carl Grooms is an Icon in Plant City and around the world in the Agriculture industry Spotlight Interview by Brian West Photos by Sophia Hyde and Courtesy of The Grooms

C

arl Grooms has been farming since he was a child, and has owned his own farm – Fancy Farms, since 1974. His main field is bordered

by County Line Road, Rice Road and Wiggins Road. This is the field he began farming in a partnership with James Crocker that got him started on his own. Today, Fancy Farms also has several other sites they farm and Grooms has become known around the world for his work, and his beard.

Focus: Tell me about your family.

Grooms: I have a wife, DeeDee is her name. We have two kids, Dustin and Kristi. Kristi got a degree in advertising.

My son, Dustin, went into the military for 8 years. When he got out, he figured the best thing to do was to come back to the farm and work here. He’s here on the farm with me.

My wife has always been by my side. Back when we started, we were doing everything the laborers are doing today.

Focus: How did you meet your wife?

Grooms: I met her up town. Back then, you’d ride around the Burger Chef and the drive-in. You’d see a carload of girls and you’d holler at them. That’s what I did. I met her, but it was a month or so before I saw her again. [Laughing] We had a short courtship before I decided that I need a cook and someone to clean the house. I needed someone to take care of me, so I said, “We can make this thing work. Let’s get married.”

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CARL GROOMs Focus: Tell me about your helicopter ride last year.

Grooms: It was for my 60th birthday. Unbeknownst to me, it was planned 6 or 8 months in advance to get it to all come together, but I had no clue. Even as I was getting in the helicopter to go for a ride, I assumed my family wanted me to fly over the old farm and over the farm here, because we were going to sell it at the time. So we took a flight over to Cork over my daddy’s old farm, and while we were headed there, everyone else was arriving here at my farm and getting set up for my surprise. The helicopter fellow brought me back toward my farm, and I could see a tent. I thought to myself, “Well, those rascals. They’re going to have a party for me. But I couldn’t understand what all the red was in my berry field. I thought they’d marked out a landing spot for the helicopter, but as we got closer, it was a group of people. They bent over, wearing their red shirts to form a mosaic of a strawberry, just as perfect as you could see. It was a gathering of friends, family and neighbors. DeeDee worked very hard to pull that off. It was a good thing.

Focus: I understand farming was part of your life as you were growing up?

Grooms: Yes, we lived in the Cork area and my father had a 40-acre truck farm there.

He grew vegetables and strawberries.

Focus: I’ve never heard the term ‘truck farm.’ What does that mean?

In 1999 Carl’s family threw a surprise 50th birthday party for him.

Grooms: That means he farmed vegetables. I guess it was because if you had a truck and you could haul your vegetables to town, they called it truck faming. Probably 90 percent of the people living in the Plant City area back then were farmers. Back then, farming was most everyone’s livelihood. Kids were out of school during the winter to pick strawberries and went to school during the summer. [Laughing] These days they say that’s not too good for kids to be forced to pick berries; they’d rather them sit at home playing Nintendo. I was talking with Bud Hawkins at church the other night, and he was telling me that he remembered picking berries for my father and remembered getting paid $.03 a quart. People appreciated the opportunity to make any amount of money. They didn’t question what they were making.

Focus: So when you were growing up, did you know that you wanted to be a farmer?

Carl in 1983 showing the Tufts variety of strawberries. Over the decades, Carl has grown many different varieties of strawberries in his fields.

Grooms: [Laughing] Of course not! I despised it. I worked my tail off and I didn’t want anything else to do with it. I worked daylight to dark every day and daddy made sure I was on the farm so he could he could keep an eye on me. After high school I wanted to get into electronics. It was a thriving industry at the time. I got a degree in it and went out to find a job and they were offering me $100 a week and I had a piece of paper. I thought, “Well heck. I can make a $100 a week working on the farm part-time with my daddy. I’m not doing this.” So I went back to the farm, and I knew I could make a living at it. And I’d never had anyone tell me what to do other than my father, so I was a little hesitant working for someone else anyway, and I haven’t yet. I’ve always dug my dollar out of the dirt myself.

Focus: What got you interested in farming strawberries? Why not truck farming like your father?

Grooms: I always liked to eat strawberries. They’re such a clean fruit. You can pick one off the bush and pop it in your mouth and walk on down the row. It’s so pleasant.

People love the appearance and fragrance of a strawberry. When you put it in perspective, my daddy grew eggplant, but who cares about an eggplant? You don’t walk around and put eggplant in your mouth – bell pepper, you might. Strawberries will get you into any door in town. And most every woman, it’s sort of a passion fruit for them.

Carl during the freeze of 1995.

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THE fARMER

WItH tHE

Focus: You’ve been farming long enough that you’ve probably experienced a struggle at some time or another?

Grooms: Well, in farming, every year is a struggle; not necessarily the whole year, but maybe a few days or at least hours. There are always moments where you find yourself walking in a circle wondering what you’re going to do. The freeze elements are something strawberry farmers have to combat every year – and those are vivid memories. I can remember the freeze of 1962 when I was farming with my father.

It devastated the citrus industry for the state of Florida. Then when I got into strawberries, we had the snow in 1977. Would’ve thought we’d get snow here in Florida. And there’s actually a story behind that. None of the local farmers had ever experienced snow while we were farming. While it was snowing, the temperature was something like 35, 36 or 37 degrees. Since it wasn’t freezing, we didn’t have our sprinklers on to protect the crop. It stopped snowing just before daylight. When it did, the temperature plummeted to about 28 degrees. It killed 90 percent of all the blooms on the bush. One of the only guys to turn his sprinklers on was Roy Parke. Being from Pennsylvania, he knew the temperature was going to drop. But that old rascal didn’t call us up to tell us. The freeze of 1983 was really bad. The freeze of 1989 was bad. They even had rolling black-outs. It was terrible. Back then, there wasn’t a WalMart open for anyone to run up town and get a raincoat or a flashlight. You were just on your own for the weekend. And of course, the 11-day freeze last year was terrible.

Focus: Here we are, a year later. Do you have concerns about government intervention because of that 11-day freeze event?

Grooms: Of course. They’re going to make a knee-jerk ruling because of it, and their rationale is because it could happen again, even though everyone knows it was an exception, not the norm. They want to take what we do as growers – using our

sANtA bEARD best practices which are based on science, and they want us to alter from that and just handle the consequences. Money can pay for anything. If we could put glass houses over these strawberry fields, we wouldn’t have to turn on any water. But the government doesn’t build us glass houses. We’re on our own. Any farmer, regardless of what is being farmed, only uses as much water as is necessary for that crop. Every season is different. We have no control over nature.

Focus: What are some of the things you’re most proud of?

Grooms: Sure. Seeing my kids graduate and go to college, and seeing my son go into the military. Those are proud days. To be healthy has been an accomplishment, and we’ve been pretty fortunate. If you’ve got your health, you can fight these battles. I was instrumental in founding the Strawberry Growers Association. I worked with four other men; Bob Hinton, Johnnie St. Martin, Alan Williford and Tommy Brock, for two years to get it established. We were the founders. We wrote the by-laws and set everything in place to get it established. That was a proud moment to know that I was a part of it. At the same time, here we are 28 years later and it’s disappointing that everyone in the industry doesn’t support it. It was established to support the industry through research and promotion and have everyone come together to provide a voice for this industry. Unfortunately, all the growers aren’t a part of it.

Several years ago, Grooms and his wife celebrated their wedding anniversary with a trip to Hawaii. Her one request was that he would shave his beard so she could see what he looked like. Grooms said that when they returned home, they went downtown for some things, and people didn’t recognize him. He later received calls from friends that she must be running around with someone. Yes, his beard has become as much a part of Grooms as his farm has become a part of Plant City. Neither one would seem the same without the other.

Carl with his former partner James Crocker (left) and his brother David Grooms (right).

Carl at the Shepard Road sign during the 1976 freeze, before the road name was changed to Fancy Farms.

Carl exactly twenty years later during the 1996 freeze in the exact same spot but with the Fancy Farms sign.

A current family picture of Carl with his family: Wife, DeeDee; Daughter, Kristie; and Son, Dustin, with his wife Alison and their daughter Skyler

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Wishing You The Best for the New Year!

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DECEMBER 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATIONS IN THE RED ROSE BALLROOM –

TRIBUTES TO ROD STEWART AND NEIL DIAMOND

The theme of the evening in the Red Rose Ballroom is “Tonight’s the Night” - and what a show it will be! Back by popular demand and to help bring in another year is the fantastic Rick Larrimore as “The Ultimate Rod Stewart” and the amazing Jack Berrios as “Diamond,” a tribute to Neil Diamond. P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds with Ken Brady of the Casinos “Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye” will also perform.

IN THE RED ROSE DINING ROOM –

GEORGE GALFO’S MYSTICS AND RON MCPHATTER

In the Red Rose Dining Room the theme of the evening is “Mystical Memories” - Vegas Style! George Galfo’s Mystics will perform their hits, including the number one “Hushabye.” Ron McPhatter will showcase with his act of “The Legacy of Clyde McPhatter.” Ralph Allocco & Second Wind will also perform.

Tickets to both events include a full course buffet, party favors, a midnight toast - complete with balloon drop, and a 1a.m. hot breakfast buffet. For a truly memorable evening, book now and celebrate your New Year with us!

JANUARY 1, 7 15, 21 & 29 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

WIND

Internationally acclaimed since the 1950s, the group performs the songs that have touch hearts for generations in the Red Rose Ballroom. Comedian Pat Capuzzi with also grace the stage with his crazy antics to put a smile on your face. P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show. Dinner served in a Supper Club atmosphere

JANUARY 8 & 28 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

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

MERRITT

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

FEBRUARY 19

Singer-songwriter and comedian, Jim Stafford will grace the stage in the Red Rose Ballroom on this evening for his special birthday celebration. His hits include: Swamp Witch, Spiders and Snakes, and My Girl Bill. Jim’s music has been covered by George Jones and Jerry Reed and he has contributed to several movie soundtracks. Also performing - PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds before and after the show. Space is limited, so please RSVP for this great dinner show soon!

JANUARY 22 BOB ANDERSON

“A Night in Vegas” Las Vegas Hall of Fame Entertainer!

Rich, smooth voice- and great impressionist!

PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds will also perform.

JANUARY 29 THE FABULOUS HUBCAPS

FEBRUARY 4, 12, 19 & 26 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND

THE VAN DELLS

50s & 60s Rock and Roll – The Van Dells are a unique blend of comedy, choreography and tight harmonies... the group is nonstop action from start to finish! Plus, PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds will also perform before and after the show in the Red Rose Ballroom.

FEBRUARY 26 THE LEGACY OF THE

TEMPTATIONS

Back by popular demand. This group with thrill you with the hits that we have loved for so long... including: “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg and “Papa Was A Rolling Stone!” Plus, Richie Merrit and PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds.

MARCH 5 LOLA &

THE SAINTS

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

“One of the Nation’s Most Sought After Oldies Show Bands.” Tributes to Bobby Darin, Ray Charles, Sinatra, Sonny & Cher... and much more! Plus, PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds.

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

JANUARY 7, 2011 THE FOUR ACES

JANUARY 14 – RICHIE

JANUARY 15 JIM STAFFORD

MARCH 11 & 12

DOOWOP WEEKEND - VOL. 5 WIND

FEBRUARY 12 THE WORLD FAMOUS PLATTERS – “ENCHANTED” VALENTINE SHOW

Enjoy a romantic evening of continuous hits – “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes,” “Only You,” “Twilight Time,” “Enchanted”... and more in a supper club atmosphere. Plus, PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds in the Red Rose Ballroom.

FEBRUARY 12 RALPH ALLOCO & SECOND WIND – “UNFORGETTABLE” VALENTINE SHOW

It’s a three hour Las Vegas style show, in the Red Rose Dining Room, featuring adult contemporary music including show tunes and those special romantic songs for just the right Valentine’s atmosphere!

The annual is event is underway for another spectacular extravaganza! The celebrity line up includes: The DelPrados, George Galfo’s Mystics, The Edsels, Terry Johnson’s Flamingos, and P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds.

MARCH 26 BUDDY HOLLY

& BEATLES

TRIBUTE SHOW

Come get boppin & rock’in for this fabulous show that will make you yearn for the days of ... (as Paul McCartney would say) – Yesterday! Space is limited, so please RSVP for this great dinner show soon!

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

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

FEBRUARY 18 RICHIE MERRITT

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

TEL: 813.752.3141

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

WWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COM

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

61

Christmas Wishes Christmas Wishes J & G Jewelers from

Written by Angela Jones

Another wonderful year is coming to a close and Gladys Jones would like to reflect on the past year with family, friends, customers, and future customers.

For a brief history, Gladys has been in business in Plant City for more than 40 years. She began working for Bill Gunn Jewelers right after she graduated Plant City High School. When Bill Gunn retired, her husband Jay encouraged her to open J & G Jewelers. The business officially opened in 1983.

The year 2010 has been eventful for everyone at J &G. Gladys’ son Robbie returned safely from his second deployment in Iraq. Her son-in-law Tony and daughter Aimee Pippin and grandson Wesley moved to North Carolina for a civilian job opportunity with the Army. Angela, Gladys’ oldest daughter became a licensed Clinical Social Worker. Our family member Eric Barber and other local artists celebrated their first anniversary of “The Art Lounge Gallery” with “Art After Dark” complete with refreshments and live entertainment in November.

name watches. All of these selections come in rings, necklaces, pendants, earrings, brooches, bracelets, anklets, toe and thumb rings. Gladys says that “diamonds, unique colored gemstones, and silver continue to be hot items this Christmas. The most popular items this year are key pendants, colored pearls and silver with diamonds.”

Gladys and two of the store’s buyers, Angela Jones and Eric Barber, enjoy traveling to jewelry shows around the country to find the latest jewelry fashions and gift ideas.

The Jones family enjoys helping others in the community, and are supportive of all our country’s heroes. J & G donates to various programs, including local churches, schools, civic organizations, and social service agencies.

at the business include Jay Jones, Gladys’ husband, Nonie Roberts, her sister, and Ashley Hawthorne, her niece. Others helping out part time in addition to their full time jobs include Angela Jones, her daughter, as well as Eric Barber and Debra Chitwood, her niece rounding out the crew.

Gladys’ motto for the year 2011 is “To continue to believe in miracles! And continue to believe in our SAVIOUR and HIS MIRACLES, of which our family has received many this year.”

Magdalyn Marie Jones

J & G is a family run business with everyone playing a role in its success.

The immediate family members working

J & G Jewelers operates as a full service jewelry store. Gladys is a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America and handpicks all of the diamonds and gemstones sold in the store. They continue to provide on site jewelry repair. Bill Bryan, a certified goldsmith, provides repairs and all types of custom-made jewelry. One of the most popular services from J & G Jewelers are the custom made bows placed on every wrapped gift.

J & G carries a wide variety of items, with prices ranging from $10 into the thousands. Gladys prides herself in stocking the latest styles, including unusual gemstones, a rainbow variety of colored diamonds, designer sterling silver, rose gold, platinum, 10k and 14k yellow and white gold and brand

Eric Barber, Gladys Jones and Angela Jones

(Front) Aimee & Wesley Pippin, Gladys & Angela Jones (Back) Robbie Jones, Tony Pippin, and Jay Jones

J & G Jewelers

304 E. Baker St Plant City, FL 33563

813-752-9629

Freshwater cultured pearls in white, pink, bronze, black, copper and multicolors Prices range from $35-1000

10k & 14k white gold and diamond wedding sets.

Starting at $700

Pink and green agate with fresh water pearls, smokey quartz, and Swarovski crystals on a sterling silver necklace This necklace and other agate combinations from $55 up

Cherish the key moments with the ones you love (in silver and gold with diamonds) $75 and up

Silver Charm Bracelets Combinations starting at $48

Thank you for Supporting us in

Dancing LocalsIII With The

Morrow Steel Red Rose Inn & Suites Albertson Financial Group Servpro Now Care Mike and DeDe Floyd

2nd Place

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Felton’s Grocery

Textures Hair Studio

Plant City Mortgage

Crystal Clear Pools

Fred’s Southern Kitchen

Warren Tree Sales

Big Dogs

Ashley Showalter

Work Comp Partners

The Artistry Salon

Dan Raulerson

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s

Central FL Construction

FIC

Bowman Cleaners

Feola Insurance

Itex-Jim & Carolyn Young

Poppell Insurance

Gail & Gene Lyons

Hillsboro Bank

The Ledger

brian “Gumby” Griffin

FOCUS

GREATTeach-In AMERICAN Merry Christmas

On November 17, Focus Magazine participated in the Great American Teach-In at local elementary schools. Students were given blank covers and told to draw their own cover of Focus Magazine. Here are just a few of the very creative covers drawn by the students.

From The Staff At Focus Magazine

Grace Reed Shiloh Elementary School 5th Grade Mrs. Weissman’s Class

We Wish You And Yours A Very Merry Christmas And A Happy New Year.

Mike • DeDe • Sophia • Anthony • Tony • Holly • Julie • Angel • Brent • Linda • Erik • Susan

MAGAZINE

702 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd Plant City, FL 33563 www.myfocustv.com

Fitzgerald Water Conditioning and Pump Services

813-986-4999

Plant City Florida Owned and Operated since 2005 by Shane and Julie Hasting. Licensed and Insured.

Call us we meet all your water needs: Are you tired of yellow water that smells like rotten eggs?

Or yellow dingy whites when you wash clothes?

Low water pressure from your pump?

Tabitha Belcher Wilson Elementary 4th Grade Mrs. Wood’s Class

We replace pressure tanks and service wells. Its your one stop water company, wells, water softners and iron filters.

Our small family owned business does not have the overhead that large companies do.

Call us we can test your water, check your pump and get the the answers you have been looking for at half the cost the larger companies do. Our distributors for softeners and pumps are the same the only difference is the PRICE!

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

65

business » business profile Plant City Towers 103 w. mahoney st. plant city, fl 33563 813-752-5116 Plant City living center 405 E. Damon St. Plant City, FL 33563 813-659-2669

Plant City Towers and Plant City Living Center Receive National Recognition M written By: Cheryl Johnston

ost local folks in know what a wonderful asset the Plant City Towers and Plant City Living Center are to our community’s housing options, but now the nation knows.

The National Affordable Housing Management Association (NAHMA), headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, recently awarded the two residential facilities “National Recognition as a Community of Quality” for outstanding management.

According to NAHMA’s president, Dan Murray, “Plant City Towers and Plant City Living Center are a credit to their community as two among the select few that have achieved the very highest standard of excellence in property management and in the provision of services to lower income families. These services enable seniors to attain high levels of self-sufficiency.”

Jeanne Anne Ratliff agrees wholeheartedly.

As administrator of both facilities since 1999, she considers her job as “more of a mission” and loves working with senior Both buildings are sponsored by First citizens. She describes how residents Baptist Church of Plant City and managed and staff interact and cooperate. “We all

by SPM, LLC,, a company specializing in become family. We watch out for and care the management of housing for seniors. about each other.”

To be recognized as a National Community of Quality (COQ), affordable senior and multifamily rental properties must achieve a high standard of excellence in the way they are maintained and managed, the services provided for residents financial management and experience and training of personnel.

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december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

A full time service coordinator directs the award-winning resident services and programs. These include weekly transportation for banking or grocery shopping, newsletters with calendar of events, nutritional and exercise programs, topical seminars, parties and celebrations and planned outings. Optional subsidized meals and housekeeping help are also available.

Sarah Gettle appreciates the social life at the Towers. She attended Thanksgiving dinner in the activity room and looks forward to the Christmas party First Baptist Church will host on site. Gettle said, “I make new friends and I also like that the nurse comes every Tuesday for blood pressure checks.”

Her friend Deloise Johnson agrees and describes her home as “a safe place to live.” She also enjoys the activities and the affordability. “We have lots of things going on this month, and we had a nice Thanksgiving dinner. We paid for it all by having a yard sale,” she said.

Virginia Griffin describes her decision to make Plant City Living Center as “the best move I’ve ever made” and considers it a godsend. She calls her 4th floor apartment “The Penthouse.” She believes “God led me here” and says, “I was searching for a home with low rent because I live on a fixed income. I met the manager, Jeanne Anne, and found out she loves the Lord as much as I do. I’ve met many new people and am very happy. We play games, have coffee together every day at 2:00 p.m., go out to eat together, and just have a wonderful life. I’m so thankful to be here.”

Apartments are available for immediate occupancy at this time.

Each 1 bedroom, 1 bath carpeted apartment home is equipped with energy saving appliances, vertical blinds, individually controlled central heating and air conditioning, smoke detectors, interior fire sprinklers, and storage closet. Selfservice elevators, the onsite laundry center, activity room, patio area, and landscaped grounds add to the convenient and relaxing lifestyle residents enjoy at both locations.

Phone or visit to tour Plant City Towers at 103 W. Mahoney Street (813-752-5116) in the historic downtown area adjacent to First Baptist Church or Plant City Living Center (813-659-2669) at 405 E. Damon Street. The welcome mat is out and reads “Welcome home. You deserve it.”

AMERICAN BOARD CERTIFIED

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

Tues-Sat 10-5:30 (Call for extended holiday hours)

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

67

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december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

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C a r e

•

R e l a t i o n s h i p s

•

R e s p e c t

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R e s o u r c e s

A reflection of health From November 15th through December 31st you will be able to select a Medicare Advantage plan that best fits your needs. As you review your options, you should consider those plans offering the vast network of Continucare medical centers and highly qualified doctors offering best-of-class care.

At Continucare we understand the value of establishing a relationship with your primary care physician, one who takes the time to get to know you, earns your trust and develops a personalized care program based on wellness and prevention. Your personal primary care physician will help you navigate your healthcare choices, and our state-of-the-art medical centers give you access to the latest advances in medical technology.

Our dedication to your care continues even after you see your Continucare doctors. That is why after every appointment our friendly Customer Care staff calls each patient to ensure all questions and concerns were addressed satisfactorily during your visit.

Continucare provides the quality medical treatment you need and the attentive personal care you deserve.

15 Medical Centers in South Florida. There is one near you.

Call us today at 813-754-5480 or visit continucare.com 70

december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

business » edward jones

Ring inFinancial Some New Resolutions Year’s N submitted By: edward jones

ow that 2011 is almost here, you may want to make some New Year’s resolutions. Planning to volunteer?

Go to the gym more often? Learn a new language? All worthy ambitions, of course, but this year, why not add some financial resolutions as well?

Which resolutions should you make? Here are a few ideas to consider:

» Boost your retirement accounts.

No matter how old you’ll be in 2011, one thing is certain — you’re a year closer to retirement than you were in 2010. And that’s why you’ll want to increase your contributions to your retirement accounts.

If your salary is going up in 2011, boost the amount you defer for your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan, such as a 403(b) plan (if you work for a school or other tax-exempt organization) or a 457(b) plan (if you work for a state or local government). With tax-deductible contributions, tax-deferred growth of earnings and several investment options, these types of plans are tremendous ways to save for retirement. And try to “max out” your traditional or Roth IRA, too.

» Look for opportunities.

With the uncertainties in the economy and the volatility of the financial markets, many people decide to head to the investment “sidelines” for a while. Yet, this environment may actually be a good one for investors with patience, discipline and the ability to look beyond yesterday’s headlines. For one thing, many quality securities are now good values. Also, we’re still seeing low inflation and low interest rates — factors that may lead to greater economic demand and improved strength in the financial markets.

» Don’t over-react to market swings.

Over the past few years, we’ve seen plenty of sudden, sharp swings in the financial

markets, and you’re likely going to see more of them in 2011. Don’t over-react to either the “ups” or the “downs” of the market. Over-reacting leads to short-term thinking — and successful investors are the ones who can maintain a long-term perspective.

» Rebalance when necessary.

At least once a year, review and rebalance your portfolio, as necessary, to make sure it still reflects your goals, risk tolerance and family situation, all of which can change over time.

» Reduce your debts.

While the sluggish economy of the past couple of years has obviously been a cause of concern for everyone, we have seen one “silver lining” in that many people, concerned about over-spending, have shed some of their debt load. The less money you have to spend on your debts, the more you’ll have available to invest for your future, so do what you can to cut down on what you owe.

» Maintain adequate

cash levels.

As an investor, you’ve got at least two good reasons for maintaining enough cash in your portfolio. First, having adequate cash available means you’ll be ready to act quickly to take advantage of good investment opportunities. And second, by having a cash cushion, you won’t be forced to liquidate long-term investments to pay for short-term needs such as a major car repair, a new furnace, a big doctor’s bill, and so on.

By following these suggestions, you can position yourself to make progress toward your long-term goals in 2011 — and in all the New Years that follow.

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

71

10% off

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1902 W. Reynolds St., Plant City, FL • 813-752-2236

HOPEWELL Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens

wishes you and your loved ones a very MERRY CHRISTMAS www.hopewellfuneralhome.com 6005 County Rd. 39 South 1/2 Mile South of County Road 60 813.737.3128

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december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

MARKLEY CHIROPRACTIC Dr. Guy Markley • Dr. Robyn Markley • Judy Markley A.P.

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derfu l Have a wo n ason Ho liday S e 2011 & Ne w Year

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522 Oakfield Dr • Brandon, FL 33511 Dr. Lisa E. Tanner

HEARING IS A GIFT. Know someone who is struggling with their hearing?

Let a professional audiologist help with this quality of life decision.

Remember IT IS RECOMMENDED that everyone’s hearing be screened at least once every 10 years through age 50. After that hearing should be screened once every 3-years, sooner if a condition occurs that places you at risk for hearing impairment

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

To learn more about Dr. Tanner and Advanced Diagnotics and Hearing Solutions, please visit us online at www.adhs-brandon.com foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

73

business » success

Talk to me about Allstate Power Sports Insurance.

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

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

APIST LOCAL MASSAGE THER

M ASSAGE the gift that fits everyone Mom Dad Brother Sister Co-workers Best Friend Husband Wife

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CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE!

r n has lived in Plant City ove Christina “Nikki” Jackso r massage therapist for ove a n bee has and rs, yea 20 of from the Sarasota School 14 years. After graduating continued her education has she , rapy The e sag Mas cater to a variety of patient in many areas to help her sage needs are for leisure, mas r you r ethe Wh ds. nee condition, Nikki is stress, pain, or a medical feel your best. well-trained to help you

paul granville Crystal Clear Pools » How did you get into this business?

I have been around pools all my life. It started from the swim team through school and college. Then when I was 15 my Dad built his pool at home, and I found the process fascinating. Although my company does not build pools, we do virtually every other part of the process.

I enjoy the practical aspect of the pool equipment and problem solving that often comes from the water chemistry. I enjoy delivering a good service to our customers and seeing the satisfaction they get from knowing that the pools their families swim in are safe and clean and operating the way they should.

» What are your aspirations?

My wife and I are both in business here in Plant City. We both strive to grow and develop our businesses to leave a legacy for our children and to continue to grow as active members of our community in a city we love to live in.

» What inspires you?

813-477-7978 110 W. REYNOLDS ST., #217 PLANT CITY, FL

MM15607 • MA23235

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december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

My children, my wife, seeing the successes my parents have experienced in life and seeing what that has added to their life inspires me most. Also, reading the stories and bios of other successful Plant City business people. I meet with several business groups here in Plant City and

spending time with local business people is an inspiration in itself. I feel that the Plant City community is inspiring….seeing what can happen for individuals who work hard and dedicate themselves to something bigger than themselves.

» What are your greatest successes?

I take great pride in my family - my seven children and the people that they are.

From a business perspective, I take great pride in the fact that I had already built a successful pool company near Orlando with my family, my sister and my parents.

So a large personal success for me has been bringing part of that success to Plant City, building a reputation here and being made to feel so welcome.

» What do you have planned for your future?

To continue to grow both our businesses here locally and employ more people. My wife and I have plans to continue to grow both our pool business and our salon, watch our children grow and enjoy all that Plant City has to offer in both community and business life. I think as Plant City residents, we are all fortunate to be living in a community such as ours. In tough times we all pull together and that should make us all proud.

Preventive Measures

business » success

Can Save Pets The holidays are a festive time for us and our pets. However, due to ongoing activities and constant distractions, we can easily overlook potential dangers to our four-legged family members.

Take preventive measures to protect your pets this holiday season. Being aware of these top five dangers could save you a trip to the veterinary emergency room.

1. Holiday Tinsel and Ornaments 2. Holiday Lighting and Candles 3. Gift Wrap Ribbon 4. Food Hazards 5. Toxic Holiday Plants

Have a safe and happy holiday.

Please drop off pet food for our holiday pet food drive. We will donate the food to Meals on Wheels who will distribute the food to pet owners who need our help.

DON MITCHELL COWBOYS WESTERN WORLD AND STEAKHOUSE SALOON

» How did you get into this business?

I was driving by the property on Hwy 60 and saw that beautiful property and in my mind I thought, “That would be a great place for a Full Service Western Store or maybe even a steakhouse restaurant.” I knew Plant City needed both.

» What are your greatest successes?

My marriage of 10 years to my incredible wife Susann, and having our two children in our lives, Savannah, 8, and Dylan, 6.

» What do you have planned your future? » What are your aspirations? for Eventually I would like to be able to sit To be a success to my family. Be able to watch my children grow up to be healthy and happy.

» What inspires you?

To have a dream or a concept and see it turn into a realty.

back on my fishing boat and exchange stories with my wife Susann about our children and what is going on in their lives.

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

Try our convenient Drop Off service!

3109 SR 574 West (813) 752-2869

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

NORTH POLE

Think for your Holiday Needs use this coupon and save when we pack $2 OFF: 1 Package $5 OFF: 2 Packages $10 OFF: 3 Packages EXP: 1-15-11

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117 W. Alexander St. 754-5533 Next to Sweet Bay

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

75

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

Complete Auto Service Center

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

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

(813)-752-6729

Se Habla Espanol

180 bed nursing and rehabilitation center Physical, occupational, and speech therapists State-of-the-art 5,000 square foot therapy gym

The Health Center of Plant City 701 N. Wilder rd.

813-752-3611

WWW.healthceNterofplaNtcity.com 76

december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Now Accepting

2010 grasshoppers fbll Minors 9-10 Champions

I had the pleasure of coaching the Plant City Little League minors Grasshoppers team in the fall this season. We got off to a rocky start. With only 3 short practices before our first game, myself and the other coaches were still learning the players along with their strengths or weaknesses. Our season started 1-3-1 in our first five games. That's right one win, three losses and a tie. Those 5 games served as learning opportunities and experience playing together. We continued to coach good sportsmanship and best effort. Over the next eight games these boys went 6-1-1. At work I've been told a hundred times that experiences drive beliefs. Beliefs drive actions and actions produce your results. Moving into the city tournament at the seasons end these boys had the experience of playing .750 baseball in the last 8 games. No doubt that drove the belief they could win, ask any one of them and they would tell you they were going to win it all! That belief drove some incredible actions including a win over the first place team that had record of 11-2. These boys played the best three games of baseball I'd witnessed this season resulting in a tournament win. Their actions indeed produced the result, a fall ball championship metal. Through out the tournament they repeated before during and after games that they were quick, smart and strong. Of my half dozen years of coaching baseball this team had the best attitude and were the most coachable of all, a true testament to the great group of parents that brought them out with full bellies and smiles. Many thanks to Matt Kelly and Mark Wegner who served as great coaches as well as role models.

I happened onto a quote by John Wooden that was quite fitting;

“don’t let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.”

I am very proud to have coached these kids and I’d like to congratulate the following players for a great championship season; Bryce “Double” Murphy Joey “Bull’s-eye” Wegner Taylor “Big 8” Herbert Shelby “Iron Man” Kelly Blake “The Closer” Strickler Austin “Grand Slam” Simmons Landon “Superman” Scudder Logan “Long Bomb” Abraham Zane “Clutch Hit” Floyd Mason “Stretch” Murphy Jacob “Wheels” Voelker Peyton “Line Drive” Martin

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

77

This is a paid advertisement

SunriSe HomeS introduceS “CoolHouse” in Walden Point

A

Brandon builder, Sunrise Homes, has introduced a new concept that just might change the way we think of our homes.

Sunrise calls it the “CoolHouse”, and you can see it in Walden Pointe in Plant City.

E T N I O P N E D L A W

ouse” ” and the entire “CoolH Come see the “Pinnacle 0’s. te, starting from the $18 in Po en ald W at n io ct Colle n’t delay. are available now, so do Preconstruction savings

“Three years ago, I saw change coming in the housing marketplace unlike any I’d seen in more than 25 years in the business,” says Ali Hasbini, President of Sunrise.

Among the changes he saw: falling prices, intergenerational families, rising unemployment, foreclosures running rampant. Buyers were disappearing, afraid to commit to a home purchase in an uncertain environment.

“We knew then that in order to survive we needed to address those buyers’ concerns and real fears. We needed to find a way to build and sell a home that would serve today’s buyer’s needs at a value that they could afford, while assuring them that this is a home that they could be comfortable in for a long, long time and maybe for life.”

The result is the “CoolHouse”. The home seems to have everything today’s rare and careful buyers demand.

“CoolHouse” is a concept, not a specific house,” says Ali. “We developed the components of the package and retrofitted every house we build, so that every home we build and sell today is a CoolHouse.”

So, just what is it?

First and foremost, the CoolHouse is defined by a large, nearly but not completely finished attic space. By carefully designing trusses and utilizing Icynene brand sprayed insulation in the rafters, Sunrise has created “grow into” space upstairs.

For example, the Pinnacle Model showing in Walden Pointe has 3 bedrooms and two baths on the first floor in addition to a complete guest suite with its own bath and separate entrance. But at the top of the finished, carpeted stairs you’ll find another 713 square feet of not-quite-finished space, ready to be completed when you need it.

“The space is complete with wall framing systems, floor underlayment, windows… we’ve even stubbed the plumbing in case you want to add a bath,” says Hasbini.

“Now, if you have a boomerang kid who comes home from college, or an aging parent coming to live with you, or you get a promotion and decide to treat yourself to a home theater, you don’t need to look for a new home. The CoolHouse has you covered.”

That flexibility begins when you buy a CoolHouse. Sunrise offers an unbelievable array of options on the first floor so that you can buy exactly the home you need today and nothing more.

But it’s not just the “grow-into” space that makes the CoolHouse work for today’s cautious buyer. Each home is energy-efficient with that Icynene sprayed-foam insulation, dual-pane, low-e windows, 14-SEER air conditioning and a “Smart” thermostat and energy control system.

Sunrise has also contracted with Central Florida Gas to install natural gas lines in Walden Pointe, opening up more energy saving opportunities including tankless water heaters.

“Value doesn’t just mean price, but operating costs,” said Hasbini, “so we’ve engineered the CoolHouse concept to deliver maximum energy efficiency. That, along with low homeowners association fees and no CDD’s, makes a CoolHouse all the more affordable.”

“We think that a high-value, affordable, comfortable home that will grow with you means more stable families and communities,” said Hasbini, “and that’s good for all of us.”

You can see the Pinnacle and learn more about the CoolHouse at the Sunrise homes model and sales center at 3001 Via Siena Street in Plant City.

Sales and Model Center 3001 Via Siena Street 813-767-5175 From the $180’s

1513 Jim Redman Parkway, Plant City

Call us for your Residential, Commercial, and Property Management Needs

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

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

LOG CABIN BEAUTY

OUR PROPERTY MANAGEMENT TEAM Let our Property Managers show you how Coldwell Banker markets your Rental to the World! Coldwell Banker provides property owners with full property management and rental services, and assists customers with an exciting selection of vacation and annual residences, from condominiums and villas to homes and beachfront estates. We’ll manage your rental properties professionally. For the confidence you need in Property Management, call Maddie Alford (813-382-8382) or Candance Brigham (813-309-1922).

LUXURY LIVING

Contract Fell. Approved sale with Military HAP program.

Real “Log Home” on 1.5 acres. Stone fireplace, updated kitchen and baths. Open loft w/additional room for bedroom/den or study. Call Maddie Alford @ 813382-8382 to preview! Great Price $149,000. MLS #T2448830

COUNTRY HOME – GREAT PRICE

VACANT LAND

SOLD

A rare combination of sophistication and luxury! This lovely waterfront home boasts 3 large bedrooms, 2-1/2 baths, with a great room style of living! Gourmet kitchen hosts granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Abundant windows give you a view of the private lake and trees beyond! Village Green offers low-maintenance living in Walden Lake. Move-in ready! Call Cheryl McDaniel, 813-758-1429. $184,900.

MLS# T2440929

Grandaddy Oaks greet you at the driveway and escort you to this jewel of the South! If you enjoy the great outdoors - you’re home! This great-room style home boasts a 26’x35’ living area including a fireplace, wall away sliding glass doors that overlook a sparkling pool. Entertain and relax on your 33’x44’ screened lanai while viewing your gorgeous landscaped backyard!

Abundant storage and split plan are just a few of it’s great features. 3 car attached garage, and an add’l 2 car detached garage with workshop and a private full bath. Listed by Cheryl McDaniel, 813-758-1429

Come and experience beautiful Florida land. No deed restrictions here, so bring your dreams and build your home or bring your manufactured home. These 1.9 acres are located close to I-4 with 270 feet of road frontage, and chain length fence throughout the back. Cable and electricity ready. Owner will consider owner financing with restrictions.

Don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Let’s talk! All offers welcome.

MLS #T2443743. Call Brenda Ruiz 813-967-1831

GREAT BUY IN THE COUNTRY

A MUST SEE!

SUPER BUY

Newer 4 bedroom, 2 bath doublewide on 1.27 acres, fenced with 2,338 heated s.f., deck and large workshop/ storage area. Priced to sell with another parcel and home available next door. Must see to appreciate. MLS #T2388743. Call Jimmie Robinson, 813-390-6441

Come and enjoy Florida country and still keep the convenience of everyday life.

This nice 2008 Manufactured home has all you need and is conveniently located to schools and shopping. With three bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms this home has the space you need. The master suite is pleasant with a huge master closet. The big yard is inviting - perfect for family get-togethers, and shopping centers are just around the corner. Nice kitchen with contemporary cabinets. Come see for your self, this home is for you. MLS #T2448443. Contact Brenda Ruiz, 813-967-1831

Hassel-free Short Sale. Don’t just dream a dream...Buy one. Bring your own decorating ideas make this cute house your dream home. Nice yard, clean neighborhood, and excellent location with shopping centers around the corner and minutes from Polk Pkwy.Bring your family and enjoy this contemporary home with two car garage. Above-ground pool does not convey. MLS #T2431826. Call Brenda Ruiz, 813-967-1831

PINEDALE NEIGHBORHOOD

FAMILY ATMOSPHERE

LAKE RETREAT

Beautiful updated 4 bedroom 3 bath pool home on wooded ½ acre lot in prestigious neighborhood. Home features stone counters, solid wood cabinets and crown molding. This 4,033 htd s.f. home seems even larger with the openness of the large rooms and windows to bring the outdoors indoors. No Fees! Priced below appraisal. MLS #T2433760.

Jimmie Robinson, 813-390-6441.

This 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home located on a cul-de-sac is beyond gorgeous and move-in ready! Features hard wood floors, crown molding, remodeled kitchen with granite countertops and newer appliances. A must see! MLS#T2429521. Call Jimmie Robinson, 813-390-6441

Looking for peace and tranquility? Enjoy the sunrises and direct lake front living on beautiful Lake Louisa! With access to the chain of Lakes and over 100 feet of lake front, dock, and double boathouse with lifts, this house has all you need to enjoy the water.

Includes a newer roof, septic, flooring and AC. A wall of windows gives you the perfect view! Or admire the lake view from your large screened lanai, then fish off your dock and enjoy boating on the ski able lake. Home features 4 bedrooms and 2 baths with an extra bonus room or bathroom. It has been plumbed for large families and entertaining.

MLS #T2423081. Price reduced! Call Jimmie Robinson, 813-390-6441

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

79

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

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

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

Kathleen Wainoris 863-608-1557 REALTOR® Notary

From Our Family To Yours, Happy Holidays!

WALDEN LAKE TWO STORY POOL HOME 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with upstairs loft overlooking great room. Beautiful wood staircase, family room with fireplace and so much more.

Short sale: bank approved price of just $130,000.

BETTER THAN NEW Great opportunity to purchase this totally renovated 2 bedroom 1 1/2 bath condo in Russellwood Condo Complex in the heart of Brandon.

Inside utility, large porch overlooking pool area.

Asking just $44,900.

CUTE AS A BUTTON Adorable south Lakeland 3 bed/2 bath home with fresh paint, newer roof and new a/c, renovated master bath,large fenced yard and screened patio.

Short sale: Bring all offers. Bring all offers, asking just $65,000

BUILD YOUR DREAM!

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

SOUTH LAKELAND SHORT SALE Wonderful 4 bedroom 2 bath home off of Shepherd Road Volume ceilings, open floor plan, covered porch with fenced yard Short sale: bank approved price of just $130,000.

Wonderful building lots in Lakeland: No deed restrictions in George Jenkins school district, beautiful level treed property with direct street frontage. Asking $59,000.

1.38 acres building lot in Meadow View Oaks area of north Lakeland. Asking just $22,000.

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december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Plant City Little League 2011 Spring Softball & Baseball Registration is Here!

We are proud to offer online registration. Please visit our website at http://www.plantcitylittleleague.org for details and instructions regarding online registration.

Register during the Early Bird Registration period (online only) before January 1st, 2011 and save $15 off of the registration fees listed below.

January 1st, 2011 through January 13th – you may still register online at the regular fees listed below.

Spring 2011 Registration Fees Boys League Age 4 as of Apr 30th, 2011 - $70 ($40 PCLL Registration and $30 City Fee) Girls League Age 4 as of Dec 31st, 2010 - $70 ($40 PCLL Registration and $30 City Fee) Boys League Age 5 & Up as of Apr 30th, 2011 - $145 ($115 PCLL Registration and $30 City Fee) Girls League Age 5 & Up as of Dec 31st, 2010 - $145 ($115 PCLL Registration and $30 City Fee) Optional Booster Membership - allows for voting rights at PCLL Board Meetings: $1 per guardian Sibling Discount – 3rd Sibling and higher receive a discount of $40 In Person Registration Dates at the Plant City Little League Boardroom 1704 N Park Rd Plant City, FL 33566 January 8th, 10am – 2pm January 11th, 6pm – 8pm January 13th, 6pm – 8pm For In Person Registration please bring the following items: 1.

2.

3.

4.

•

• • •

2011 Spring Registration Form (can be found at the league website listed above) Payment (we accept Cash, Check or Credit Card) Copy of your child’s Birth Certificate (Please check the league website for a list of previously approved birth certificates. If your child’s name is listed, we do not need another copy of his/her birth certificate).

2011 Volunteer Application (can be found at the league website listed above) Tryouts dates and times Saturday January 15th – Baseball (all players encouraged to attend on this day) • 1pm - Field 2, League Age 9 / Field 3, League Age 11 / Field 4, League Age 7 • 3pm - Field 2, League Age 10 / Field 3, League Age 12 / Field 4, League Age 8 • 6pm - Field 7, League Age 13 and Up Tuesday January 18th at 6pm (makeup date for all ages) All players in Machine Pitch and higher divisions must attend at least one of the above mentioned tryout dates.

Softball – dates will be the same, 15th & 18th, Fields and Times to be determined. They will be posted on the league website.

Season Overview Opening Day is currently scheduled for Saturday February 19th. The regular season will begin on Monday February 21st. There will be no games from Friday April 22nd through Friday April 29th. The season will resume on Saturday April 30th.

For all other information please visit http://www.plantcitylittleleague.org or email admin@plantcitylittleleague.org A Boundary Map for Plant City Little League can also be found at the league website in the section marked “Park Maps” Distribution of this information does not imply endorsement of this activity or event by Hillsborough County Public Schools foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

81

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

813.707.6200

PCM

nt City I must say Pla f; el ys m te ta l Es Working in Rea P NOTCH. Mortgage is TO year. for well over a s u h it w ed rk gage wo fect Plant City Mort to find “The Per s u k o to it ng lo s at Yes; that’s how ere there for u w m ea T is h d Davis an receive an House”. Nate t till Monday to ai w to g in av h no help all times (YES, always willing to d an es ns po s mely re ledgeable answer) with ti extremely know e ar ey h T . ld u o c in your in anything they ey explain things th d an ea ar ge not left in the mortga office you are r ei th e av le u yo was language. When st sign or what ju I d di d rl o w in the an wondering what to where you c gs in th n ai pl ex t, they will You will he talking abou em to anyone. th d en m m o c re ould understand. I w elves. use them yours u yo il nt u w o never kn & Family - Amire Pedraza

Nate Davis

Natasha Davis

President- Loan Officer

Vice President- Office Manager

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Processor

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

december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Security

VA No Down Payment No Monthly Mortgage Insurance Best Rates Available

WWW.PLANTCITYMORTGAGES.COM 82

Buster Davis

real estate » walden lake

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he Walden Lake Community Association Board Meetings are the third Monday of each month at 6:00 PM. Due to the Holiday Season, the December meeting was held December 6th at the Walden Lake HOA office building on Griffin Boulevard in Walden Lake. The next meeting will be January 17th. The meetings are open to all Walden Lake residents.

Review submitted By: natalie sweet

just received. If you have a guest at the Park, please be sure there is a note on the window of their car that they are your guest and you must be present with your guest.

Marlene Merrin is now handling the enforcement of deed restrictions in 16 Walden Lake neighborhoods for a total of 1325 homes or 59% of all of Walden Lake.

She is doing an excellent job with this By this time, you should have received your huge undertaking. bill for the 2011 Master Association fees.

Glenn Allen, Jan Griffin and Tom The fee for a single family unit is $426 Daramus had their annual meeting with payable in 2 installments, due January Police Chief Bill McDaniel recently. There 1st and July 1st of 2011. It is extremely important that you pay your dues promptly. were many items covered at the meeting.

One of the Chief ’s concerns is the use of As many of you know, I am a local realtor golf carts by underage drivers and another with my main area of business being Walden Lake. I recently had a closing and is parking on the street where emergency the seller had not paid their dues or one of vehicles cannot get by. He urges residents the $45 assessments in 2010 totaling $451. to call the police department if they notice either of these items. He wants residents With pre-lien fees, attorney fees, interest, to be watchful for unusual happenings collection fees, deed and title searches, around the neighborhood and to contact etc., the total of these fees to close this the police department if you feel uneasy transaction turned into $2285.50. Please about a situation. don’t let this happen to you. Call the office and speak with Bette if you have Bill Carr of Wedgewood has a beautiful any questions about paying your dues in a Bromeliad Garden. He has offered to timely manner. donate some of his Bromeliads to the Association for a garden at their new With your invoice for your 2011 dues, building. you would receive 2 community stickers providing that you are current with your As a 21-year resident and local realtor in payments. Any additional stickers are Walden Lake, I am often asked “How is $15 for the third and $25 each for any the Real Estate Market?” In the next issue additional that you may need. Towing is of the Walden Lake Review, I will deliver happening again at the Park, especially the 2010 statistics on how Walden Lake’s on Saturdays, so please be sure to replace real estate market fared this year. your old sticker with the new one you

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foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

83

E S T A B L I S H E D

M A R C H

1 9 9 6

Plant City CANCER TREATMENT CENTER

real estate » mortgage

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MARK CORNETT (813) 754-2277 1701 S ALEXANDER ST. PLANT CITY, FL a057460@allstate.com

1701 N ALEXANDER STREET PLANT CITY a057460@allstate.com *Sixth Annual Allstate “Retirement Reality Check“. †Social Security Administration Social Security’s Future FAQ. Retrieved December 1, 2006, from ssa.gov/qa.htm. “Good Hands” is

a registered service mark of Allstate Insurance Company. Allstate Life Insurance Company, Northbrook, IL, and Lincoln Benefit Life Company, Lincoln, NE. In New York, Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York, Hauppauge, NY. Securities offered by Personal Financial Representatives through Allstate Financial Services, LLC (LSA Securities in LA and PA). *Sixth Annual Allstate “Retirement Reality Check“. †Social Security Administration Social Security’s Future FAQ. Retrieved December Registered Broker-Dealer. Member FINRA, SIPC. Main Office: Lincoln, NE. ©2009 Allstate Insurance Company. allstate.com.

84

Changes to FHA’s new mortgage insurance premium structure

1, 2006, from ssa.gov/qa.htm. “Good Hands” is a registered service mark of Allstate Insurance Company. Allstate Life Insurance Company, Northbrook, IL, and Lincoln Benefit Life Company, Lincoln, NE. In New York, Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York, Hauppauge, NY. Securities offered by Personal Financial Representatives through Allstate Financial Services, LLC (LSA Securities in LA and PA). Registered Broker-Dealer. Member FINRA, SIPC. Main Office: Lincoln, NE. ©2009 Allstate Insurance Company. december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com allstate.com.

FIN889

“F

HA Commissioner David H. Stevens announced plans for implementing FHA’s new mortgage insurance premium structure. As we work to publish a Mortgagee Letter, it is our intention to announce that based on industry feedback and our desire to have this change implemented successfully in the marketplace, FHA will make the premium fee changes on all new case numbers effective Note: FHA will lower its upfront premium simultaneously with the increase to the annual premium. FHA’s upfront mortgage insurance premium will be adjusted down to 100 basis points on all amortization terms and the annual mortgage insurance premium will increase to 85-90 basis points on amortization terms greater than 15 years FHA Prem Changes on Case #(s) on or after Oct 4, 2010 Old MIP vs. New MIP illustration Up front mortgage insurance will decrease to 1.0% for all amortization terms Annual premiums will increase on amortization

terms >15 years to: .85% on LTV’s <95% .90% on LTV’s >95% Old MIP vs. New MIP illustration Based upon a loan amount of $200,000 @ 4.5% rate @ 30-year @ 96.5% LTV: (*The Borrower Pays $45 more per month which translates into a negative $7,500 in buying power.)

However, if home is sold at year 7: [*FHA gets $2,102 MORE in MIP but principal balance is $2,175 less, so at year 7, it’s basically a “wash”. (the same calculation for 5 years, same deal.)]

Bottom line, FHA gets MORE, but the buyer builds up more equity.

As of right now, the MI is still deductible on income taxes (sunset on December 31, 2010).

Remember that MI drops off after it reaches 78%, or approximately 10 years!

Cathy MartinAngela Natalie MillerMiller Cathy Natalie Sweet AngelaAngela Miller CathyMartin Martin Natalie Sweet Sweet REALTOR®

® ® REALTOR REALTOR 813-758-9586

813-758-9586 813-758-9586

REALTOR®

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813-376-0891 813-376-0891

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813-546-9863 813-546-9863

Happy Holidays from The Sweet Team

LUXURY LIVING IN THE COUNTRY

STOP THE CAR! THIS IS IT!

4 Bedroom, 3.5 Bath, 5100 sq’ home built in 2005 w/tons of upgrades.

Featuring gourmet kitchen, oversized dining room, great room w/gas fireplace, & huge media room w/bar on over 1 acre. $569,000 *0% Seller Financing Call for Details!

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

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

COUNTRY LIVING AT IT’S FINEST Custom built 4 Bdr, 3 Bath, 4200 sq’ home on quiet country road on 1 Acre. Featuring huge bedrooms, gourmet kitchen, huge Great Room, tons of upgrades and more. 3 Car Garage with huge bonus room. Tons of parking for RV, Boats etc. Make this YOUR dream home!

WALDEN LAKE PRICED TO SELL!

CHARMING GOLF COURSE HOME

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

Live the fine live in the prestigious Aston Woods neighborhood in Walden Lake. The lovely landscaped setting sets the stage for this 3 bedroom home w/ great room floor plan. Formal dining room & large kitchen w/center island are just a few of the features. $199,000 Call Natalie 813-758-958

HOME WITH IN-LAW APARTMENT 3 BDR, 2 BA with a 4th Bedroom in the separate in-law area with it’s own private entrance. No deed restrictions here! Bring your boat, RV, etc. Great location close to shopping. $124,900

LOOKING FOR ROOM TO ROAM? Remodeled country home on 3 acres conveniently located to I-4.

Neat & Clean 1322 sq’ home w/towereing gradfater oaks providing a peaceful shady setting. The sk is the limit with the property so come make it your own! $145,000

WALDEN LAKE PURRFECT! Looking for a quick close & a fabulous home? This is it. Move right in to this 4 BDR, 2 BA featuring formal living & dining rooms & family room. CALL NOW! $169,900

WALDEN LAKE POOL HOME You’ll fall in love w/the open floor plan in this 3 Bdr/2 Bath home featuring an enormous great room & gleaming Laminate & Mexican Tile flooring Fenced yard & pool w/paver deck. $169,500

WHY PAY RENT?

FABULOUS 2 STORY WALDEN LAKE HOME

Great opportunity for first time home buyer or to size down. 3 Bdr/2 Bath home on fenced lot. Sparkling laminate flooring in the living room, ceramic tile in the wet areas. Easy commute, close to I4. $99,500

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

2635 sq’ of living area, 4 BDR/2 1/2BA, living room & huge bonus room. Beautifully decorated, lush landscape on a large fenced corner lot w/large screened lanai. You will fall in love with this home! $212,500

EXECUTIVE WALDEN LAKE HOME Luxurious & Beautiful is how you would describe this custom home in the Clubhouse neighborhood of Walden Lake. 4 BD 3 BA home, 3 Car Garage, tile roof all with pool and spa overlooking the pond and golf course. Fabulous Kitchen and large family room w/gas fireplace. $315,000

Search for homes at www.AnotherSweetSale.com 85 foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

APARTMENTS FOR THE ELDERLY

real estate » jo-ann lusk

One bedroom Apartments • Rent based on income

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103 W. Mahoney St. Plant City, FL 33563 813.752.5116

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Buying versus Factors to Consider Renting T submitted By: jo-ann lusk

ime to rent or buy? For many of us, that is the question. The (not so recent) housing boom and subsequent bust has some potential buyers hesitating.

But the fact is, with interest rates at record lows, home prices where they were a decade ago and values expected to begin creeping back up over the next year, renters have a golden – and limited – window of opportunity to own a home with little more than it costs to rent one.

3. Where You Live: In most markets, the gap between the average monthly mortgage payment and the average monthly rental payment is shrinking. In Tampa, the gap is just barely above $150, and that’s not taking tax breaks into account.

1. Interest Rates: Today, interest rates are at their lowest in 40 years, at one point plummeting below 4.5%. When interest rates are low, you can get more home for your money – not to mention a lower monthly mortgage payment.

It is really about more than just a monthly payment; there are tax benefits, deductions for property taxes and loan interest. A home appreciates in the long run and acts as a hedge against inflation. Granted, homes have lost value over the last few years. But the losses are compared to artificially inflated “boomtime” highs.

Now that prices have come back down to reality, most experts believe appreciation is set to resume. Talk to a Realtor and find out more about homeownership benefits so that you can make the right choice for your situation.

4. How Long You Plan to Stay: If you plan to stay put for a while, buying makes sense. The longer you plan to stay, the more equity you’ll build. If you’re one of Before you make a sudden move, take time those carefree types who spontaneously to evaluate your current situation. Here decides to move every couple of years, are some factors to keep in mind as you then buying a home probably isn’t a wise consider today’s rent versus buy dilemma. decision.

2. Your Financial Situation: If you’ve saved money and can afford to put a 5-20% down payment on a home, it’s a no-brainer…now is the time to buy. Not only can you get more bang for your buck but buying a home is generally a smart long-term investment that offers valuable tax advantages.

FROM

Have a Wonderful Holiday Season and be assured that 2011 will bring you much better Health, Good Fortune & Happiness.

Whatever Real Estate needs you may have, please feel free to pick up the phone and hear Ken’s Cheery Voice offering you NO-OBLIGATION advice on how he can help you and your family, especially during these tough economic times.

Phone (813) 716-0187 (24/7) E-Mail ken.arvida@msn.com Ken’sAward Winning WEB Site www.KenLawrenceTeam.com Major Builders have turned to Ken Lawrence for his Marketing & Sales Skills. You are invited to do so as well and always there’s Ken’s noted Service Guarantee.

Read Ken Lawrence’s topical and thoughtful articles each month in FOCUS Magazine. This month we Tee-Off on the sad state of Journalism in America. foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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89

sports » athlete of the month

written & photo By: Joe Bowles

Chris Smith

Plant City Raiders’ senior Chris Smith is looking ahead, but he can’t help but look back, too. You see, when Smith is asked about the most memorable moment he has ever had playing basketball, he quickly looked back ten months earlier to a game before a packed gym at home in which the Raiders pulled off an improbable comeback against their rivals that was surreal at the time.

Durant was leading the Raiders 47-35 with less than four minutes to play when the Raiders went on an 11-0 run and eventually won the game 50-49 to set off a celebration that seemed to last forever as the hometown fans stormed the court to congratulate the Raiders for their unbelievable comeback win.

After a breakout season last year, scoring more than 19 points per game and collecting more than 10 rebounds per contest, Smith got a lot of postseason attention. He was an All County Second Team selection and has garnered the interest of several colleges looking to improve their teams.

Chris, a Plant City native, began playing basketball at age eight in the Plant City Recreation’s Department’s Youth Basketball Program. He also played travel ball with the Plant City Panthers and middle school basketball for the Marshall Dragons leading up to his freshmen year at Plant City High School.

“When I was a freshman, Coach (Dale) Chambers came to our school,” Smith recalls. “I’ve dealt with Coach Chambers my whole high school career. He’s awesome… the best coach I’ve ever had.”

Chambers has helped to fashion Smith into one of the most talked about players in Hillsborough County entering this season. At 6’5”, Smith helped the Raiders

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to a 17-6 record last year and a tie for the District 5A-8 regular season title, and the top seed in the district tournament before the Raiders season ending defeat when they were upset in the semifinals by Tampa Bay Tech.

After the completion of his junior year, Chris played for the Raiders in their summer league, attended a few camps, and participated in some showcase tournaments.

“My favorite was at St Leo University,” said Smith. “There were a lot of college coaches and I got some good exposure.

Savannah State, St. Leo, and Southeastern have talked with me, but I haven’t made any decisions yet.”

If Smith exceeds last year’s play this season, the future may provide many more memorable moments that he can look back on.

“I think our team looks pretty good right now,” Smith commented. “We just need to get our chemistry down. We’ve been playing together for a couple of years, and we should know each other pretty well by now.”

Smith is a good student with a solid grade point average. He is active in the Life is Good club at school and enjoys hanging out with his friends, and playing basketball for fun. He loves his hometown, but when he graduates, he wants to venture out to see the world. In fact, after college he is hoping to see a lot of the world if he gets to fulfill his dream.

“Playing professional basketball is my dream. Right now though, I’m looking at colleges. I’m looking ahead, but not too far ahead. I’m just trying to take it one step at a time.”

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sports » Baseball team of the month

2418 James L. Redman Pkwy., Plant City, FL (813) 757-0300 written By: Joe Bowles | photo courtesy of: Neil Simpson Baseball saw the Gladiators score 11 runs in the first inning and then cruise to a 12-6 thumping of the Town and Country Crusaders on November 19. Joe Merrin, Jonathan Simpson, and Sebastian Monserrate all contributed run scoring doubles.

In game two on Saturday, the Gladiators were locked into a scoreless tie with the Lake Wales Lightning for three innings until their bats came to life and exploded for multiple runs over the last three inning to take a 9-0 victory setting up the championship game on Sunday. Every Gladiator player in the line-up collected at least one hit.

Baseball Team W hen Coach Keith Maxwell formed the nucleus of what was to be the Plant City Gladiators, his mantra was threefold: attitude, respect, and hard work. That is exactly what the Gladiators have done. With a good attitude, with respect for others, and with a lot of work hard, the Gladiators have translated that formula into a winning program in a short period of time.

For six weeks, beginning July 26, the 11 year-and-under team practiced three hours per session for five days a week. Losses came, but there were plenty of wins, too. In fact, this fall the Gladiators have won three

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of the Month

of the last four tournaments they have entered and placed second in the other.

Their latest championship was captured on November 21 at the Thanksgiving Shootout held right here in Plant City.

Maxwell, a former Florida A&M star, the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Baseball Player of the Year in 1997, and 11-year minor league veteran recently accepted a job in Tallahassee and was not able to see his team win the championship in their hometown, but two of his assistants took over and guided the team to three lopsided wins. Neril Griffiths, a former University of Florida

Gator who played in the College World Series, and his younger brother Nevin assumed the reins when Maxwell was called away.

Nevin, a former Middleton star, was a 2007 second round draft pick of the Chicago White Sox and is currently playing for the Sox’s affiliate in WinstonSalem. Neril has taken over the head coaching duties and Nevin is the pitching coach until he has to report for spring training in February.

The Thanksgiving Shootout, a product of Global Sports Authority (GSA)

The Gladiators were pitted against a team from Sal Urso’s High Performance Baseball Academy in the championship game. Urso is a former professional player and the brother of the University of Tampa Spartan’s Head Coach Joe Urso.

The Gladiators were blessed with a strong performance on the mound from T.J. Gayner. Gayner pitched a complete game holding the High Performance Academy to two runs while his teammates crossed the plate seven times for a 7-2 victory and the Thanksgiving Shootout Championship.

The Gladiators plan to take some time off over the holidays and will be back on the diamond in the spring with good attitudes, mutual respect and their usual work ethic.

They plan on a lighter schedule as most players will split their time between the Gladiators and Little League.

Gladiator players include Joe Merrin, T.J. Gayner, Cody Ginther, Josh Duke, Tyler Naegelin, Jonathan Simpson, Mykel Oyola, Matthew Byars, Connor Rogers, Sebastian Monserrate, D.J. Griffith, C.J. Kirkland, and Hunter Maxwell.

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93

sports » fitness

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

With the weather getting colder and flu season almost upon us, can you provide a little refresher on working out when you’re sick?

» Answer:

The main difference between whole grains and refined grains is the way in which they’re processed. During milling, whole grains are often stripped of their bran and germ in an effort to make them easier to cook with. The bran is the protective outer layer of the seed, which contains Everyone seems to have a different B vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, and opinion on this, but here’s the scoop. You the germ is the “embryo” of the seed, often hear people say that working out is which contains even more B vitamins, fine if it’s just a head cold—stuffy nose, some minerals, healthy fats, and protein. coughing, and other stuff that you don’t When these are removed, the endosperm like, but can deal with. This is generally is all that is left, which is primarily just true, but if you have a fever, body aches, or starch. Despite being enriched with some other more serious symptoms, you should vitamins and minerals, these refined grains leave the exercising to the rest of us. This lack much of their original nutritional philosophy is actually pretty sound, but value. In an effort to provide healthier consider folks with which you will come in options, more and more companies are to contact. When I’m working out, I don’t pulverizing the entire grain, resulting in really want people that are sneezing and what we call whole grain products. These coughing around me—and I would guess are healthier for you, but you have to be a you don’t either. Plus, I like to workout savvy shopper. Look for whole grains on with intensity, and I put a premium on the the food label—ideally, they should appear quality of my exercise. Therefore, I would at the beginning of the ingredient list. rather rest up for a day or two, even if I just have a head cold. Then, when I get back I wish you a happy holiday season. In a to exercising, I can pick-up right where I time when we may feel so much chaos and left off. Ultimately, the decision is in your pressure from the outside world, nurture a hands, so do what’s best for you! place of quiet, peace, and strength within yourself. I hope you and your family enjoy a safe, healthy, and fun holiday.

» Answer:

» Question:

Can you tell me the main difference between whole grains and refined grains?

What are we really talking about here?

94

Se’a Ryan has been dedicated to fitness her entire life focused on encouraging people to take charge of their own health. To submit a question, contact Se’a at seameditate@verizon.net . december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

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extra » senior of the month

Alix Hooker senior of the month

David Coovert senior of the month

A

Some may say his personality is larger than life when they see him performing at Plant City High School, but those who know David Coovert realize he is more than what you see on stage. David is a strong leader who combines talent with hard work, and his outcomes have been exemplary.

Written By: Brooke Allie | photo By: eve sanz

lix Hooker demonstrates the pure quality of a selfless leader.

She combines a drive to compete with a great attitude and this leads to a personality that is simply infectious. If you were to ask anyone around Plant City High School about this humble leader, you would only hear positive things.

Outside of school Alix is very involved within the community. She participates in Big Brother Big Sisters where she mentors a young girl and has done a lot of work with Relay for Life. She also works often with her youth group at Plant City’s First Baptist Church very often. As a member of the leadership team there Alix participates heavily within the churches activities like their annual Fall Festival and mission trips all over the nation.

“Raider Girl”, a nickname given to Alix due to her tremendous school spirit, always represents Plant City well. She is vicepresident of the senior class, vice-president of Civinettes, vice president of Life is Good club, historian of Student Council, on the Youth Alive council, and Chaplain of the National Honors Society, just to

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name a few. Leading is something Alix loves and mentioned, “I really love Plant City High School so much, and I realize we only have one life to live, so why not participate and apply yourself while you can!”

Her leadership also transfers to the court.

Alix has been a member of the Varsity volleyball team since her freshmen year and also plays for Tampa United, a local club team. She has been given numerous awards due to her athletic ability, including FOCUS Magazine Athlete of the Month and making first team All Western Conference this year.

In the future, Alix hopes to play volleyball at a small Christian college, her top choice being North Greenville University in South Carolina. She wants to major in education to gear her towards becoming a teacher someday.

Alix is a role model for many kids and has always put God first. She says her relationship with God is “so important and I just want to live for Him, follow Him and make good choices through Him.”

Written By: Brooke Allie | photo By: eve sanz

You may have seen David around before.

As a member of the Plant City Players Troupe 1449, Plant City High School’s drama club, he has been all over the stage. He has participated in numerous school plays and competed at districts and states, representing PCHS. David has been awarded “Best Actor” on numerous occasions for plays and continues to rack up other awards and honors through his acting and singing talents. When asked about his love for performing he said, “I love performing because it not only helps you control your own emotions, but if you act something right you can have the whole audience in the palm of your hand.

You can make them laugh, cry, feel crushed or inspired. I think it’s an awesome thing to have the power to change someone’s mood and a gift I’m going to continue to build for the rest of my life.”

When he isn’t owning the stage, you can

catch David lending a hand to something bigger than just an audience. As CoPresident and founder of PCHS’ new Eco-Club, which was established to make a difference and help Plant City “Go Green”, this senior is very dedicated to his community. He finds that helping the environment is a very important and rewarding task, and he helped organize the Hillsborough County Coastal Cleanup Event, held each year by National Honor Society.

At Plant City High School David is also known for his impeccable leadership skills. He is a member of Student Council, reporter of the Senior Class, vice-president of Best Buddies, and involved in many other clubs. This involvement has placed him on the map at PCHS. Just this year he was chosen as a court member for Homecoming and has a segment on Plant City’s morning show called Coovert’s Corner.

David wants to pursue an acting career at the University of Florida and continue on in the hope of becoming a performer on Broadway. With all his experience and leadership, this senior is well on his way to stardom!

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97

extra » al reuchel

“

Why would I want to go to the stadium when I can have a better sporting experience in my living room?

”

Why would I want to go to the stadium when I can have a better sporting experience in my living room? Isn’t that what you wanted to create with the NFL experience? The food is cheaper, there are no lines to the restrooms, I don’t have some obnoxious drunk losing his ten dollar hotdog all over my seat, and I don’t have to sit in the sun, or fight the traffic.

NFL Blackouts could backfire!

T Written By: Al Reuchel

wo disclaimers right off the top. I’m not a season ticket holder and I’m not a sports expert. But, please! These blackouts are stupid. Does the NFL really think more people will come to the Bucs games because we aren’t allowed to watch them on TV? Show me how that policy has increased ticket sales or made fans more loyal to their team.

Now add another wrinkle to this debate.

Aren’t Hillsborough taxpayers footing part of the bill for Raymond James Stadium?

Okay, so the Bucs do lease the stadium from the Tampa Sports Authority and as the leasee do have the right to set their

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own policies. I get it. But the stinking NFL wants us to feel some kind of loyalty to a team we can’t even watch on our local TV which is supposed to be free over the air?

Problem with the NFL and sport franchises in general is that they tend to believe that the public owes them loyalty simple because the teams exist. They believe if they put a winning team on the field enough fans should be buying tickets to keep the place packed… so they can make more money… excluding the money they will already make from their television contracts. I’ve got no problem

with them paying their bills. I have a problem when them denying me access of just watching them play on my TV because enough people didn’t buy a tickets. The Rays don’t do that. The Noles and Gators don’t either. Neither do the Phillies or the Yankees… or I guess I shouldn’t compare them… a different sport.

So let’s walk through this one more time.

THE NFL believes by blacking out the games more of us will want to go to the stadium to watch the games. Let’s face it… missing the Bucs one Sunday could probably bring on COPD or a heart attack.

Here’s another positive for watching from home. I get to see those yard markers and actually see the line for the first down. My replays come quicker and I can actually see them verses watching them on the jumbotron… when the home team allows it. I can fly over the quarterbacks shoulder and see the catch, the run, the kick from 30 differen5t angles, And did I mention how much money I save? I can buy a new computer or a 52 inch flat screen or go to Disney for a week, well, maybe four days. I could buy 50 NFL jerseys. For the cost of one ticket I could go to Burns or Outback or treat the entire family to a great meal at the Olive Garden.

Or, and here’s the part the Bucs aren’t going to like…. I could become a fan of a team outside the Bay Area… maybe Miami.. or Jacksonville… or even Green Bay. Gosh, the options are endless.

Maybe this blackout thing isn’t such a bad idea after all. It might force me to concentrate on the things in life that really matter like going to church on Sunday, spending time with my family, enjoying the company of a good book, casting a line into a local lake, taking a bike ride or taking a walk with my wife. A footballless Sunday is sounding better and better.

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extra » derek maul

“

The on-line format, I’ve discovered, is only as interactive as participants allow.

”

She told me she’s “Not into organized religion.” We all know people who talk that way. So I joked, “Do you prefer disorganized religion?” And she laughed enough that I knew she understood what I was getting at.

Then I told her, “I’m absolutely 100% convinced that we’re not wrong about God, and that God does love us, and that relationships can be picked up again in eternity, and - yes – that there is a continuity that we can count on.” (I remember the conversation exactly because it was just thirty minutes ago...)

“Well, I’m not sure I can do Christmas this year,” she said.

“Christmas is how I got to be so confident in God,” I said. “The birth of Jesus set in motion everything that makes it possible for any of us to know with assurance....”

And the conversation went on.

Light and Life

This year I’ve been involved with some “on-line” classes. I taught a couple and participated in one.

The on-line format, I’ve discovered, is only as interactive as participants allow. That’s true with any learning situation, but in the virtual world people can hide more easily.

There is no eye contact, tone of voice, body language or handshake in cyberspace.

In a traditional class I can read people quickly, then facilitate from there. I’ll certainty continue online classes - it’s an opportunity to reach more people. But, given the opportunity, I’d rather lead my workshops face to face.

» Light and Life:

in a Broken, Restless World Written By: derek maul

My closing “lecture” in one class, pasted onto the “announcements” board, was all about face-to-face in the real world. Here’s an edited version.

» Christmas in Real Life:

This evening I spent a lot of time with a friend and his family; one conversation helped put Christmas into clear focus Two months ago his wife was diagnosed with cancer. Things were fairly advanced and she passed away quickly; it hit the family hard. Meanwhile his oldest son had been undergoing long-term treatment for an internal malignancy. This afternoon, at around 2:00, the son died. He was just 55.

So I went over and we talked, I talked with his grandsons, his friends, and pretty much everyone in the house. You know, the perfunctory stuff that gets covered “the day of ” - the serious work usually comes later.

» Where is God?

Then I sat out on the bench with my friend’s daughter, and we talked for a long time. She lost her mother last month and then her older brother today and she wanted to talk about God - her idea, not mine. “I hope we’re right about God,” she said. “I hope that God really is there, and that there is some kind of continuity and that - as my dad keeps saying - death is simply a part of life....”

This is a long process, this relating to the world around us in terms of light - this “Holding out the word of life” (Philippians 2:16). I’ve talked with my friend’s daughter a lot over the years; but I never knew until this evening how close she is to possibly following Jesus.

What’s important is that some of the light - the light that is Christmas - leaks out of me sometimes. What makes an eternal impact is the authenticity - or otherwise - of the way each one of us receives the King, and then the way we allow that faith to direct our paths.

I’m going to miss teaching my online class. But I won’t have to miss the moment-by-moment imperative that is always there – the opportunity to be the living presence of God Incarnate in this broken and restless world.

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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extra » ken lawrence such a part of our culture, that TV executives say “if there are no pictures, no story”.

Add to that the plethora of news and documentaries on TV and competition has become fierce, with one outlet trying to out-do the other.

One major TV organization that has taken news to yet another level (the gutter), is an offshoot of a venerable broadcast giant NBC. It’s MSNBC, a joint collaboration of NBC and Microsoft, although Microsoft has little if any input into editorial content at MSNBC.

TV News at its Best! Cronkite & Kennedy

Twisting the Truth!

A review of the change in journalism, where facts have become a rarity.

submitted By: ken lawrence

A so-called TV anchor calls Sarah Palin “An Idiot”. Another refers to Tea-Party supporters as “Dangerous Radicals”.

Another refers to supporters of the Republican Party as “those people”, as if they are of another color or look.

Your writer could fill pages upon pages of FOCUS Magazine with outright lies and denigrating remarks about fellow Americans, made by “Journalism Wannabees”, better known as Leftist Reporters and Commentators, aided and abetted by “Bloggers”, who would not know a real news story if they tripped over one.

to denounce the Viet Nam war, while subtly supporting violent demonstrations against the war, promoting socialist or even communist causes and all the while pointing their ink stained fingers at business for “grabbing at the almighty dollar”.

So, a young man or woman, implanted with the belief that their handling of a report in a certain way can be a difference in making the world a better place in which to live, will think of what their professors said and slant their writings to conform with those teachings.

» Where It Really Took Hold

Mind you, journalists who have been to unbelievably poor parts of the world have been and will continue to be challenged to report accurately and not let the misery they have witnessed overcome their neutrality. It’s not easy, when one has been to India, Haiti and the Palestinian refugee camps in the Middle East, to name just a very few. However, a real journalist must do just that. Unfortunately, that’s not the way it works today with so many reporters thinking they can somehow “change the world”.

Then there were and still are, university professors, who have long held socialist beliefs and what better place to spread their philosophies, than in the classrooms?

Young, impressionable teenagers and early twenty types were prime candidates to be Having worked for a quarter of a century in Canadian journalism, as a radio reporter, indoctrinated by these leftist professors who would tell their journalism students TV journalist who reported from world hot spots such as China, Middle East and that the profession which they had ambitions to join, afforded them the the old Soviet Union, plus a newspaper opportunity to make social change in column, I have watched this once noble America. They still do to this day. profession slide ever more to the left each decade.

That’s not what the news media is supposed to be. It’s a vehicle to inform the It began in the early 1970s both here and public as to what’s going-on in their home in Canada, which are both desperately town (FOCUS Magazine), region (Tampa trying to hold onto democracy.

Trib or St. Pete Times) and country/ world (NY Times). The same applies to I witnessed the emergence of Woodstock radio and TV news, although the latter style hippies into the news business and two have neglected local news, unless surprisingly, newspaper publishers did it contains violence, for so long, that’s little to control their reporters tendencies why publications such as FOCUS are so to support leftist causes, whether it was successful.

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» The Biggest Culprit to Having True Journalism Of the various news media outlets, television continues to be my favorite.

From the early days when all one saw in a nightly newscast was an anchor, plus so-called talking heads, with some grainy black and white news clips flown-in from around the country or world, TV News has been the beneficiary of changes in technology like no other. It has become

Unable to attract much of an audience, MSNBC turned sharp left about 3-4 years ago and hired leftover radicals from the defunct leftist radio network Air America and wherever else they could find them.

One Air America host once stated on the air that President Bush should die. Even MSNBC did not hire her when it steered its ship port side.

Today MSNBC is in a ferocious fight for ratings with FOX News the far and away TV news leader in America. MSNBC anchors, led by Keith Olberman a failed sports reporter, Rachel Madow an avowed gay leftist and a carnival barker named Ed Schultz, MSNBC has taken journalism down so many notches that it’s almost sinful that a once respected TV Giant has stooped so low.

» The Future Will news reporting ever return to normality? Probably not! Daily newspapers will likely be the first casualty, cutting back to every other day, then weekly coverage and probably disappearance.

Local magazines, like FOCUS, will become the only publications, providing back yard, over-the-fence news and features.

TV news will even take a hit and see its ratings drop, as Internet news will dominate, along with the unscrupulous Bloggers.

That’s not an optimistic assessment of journalism in America today and in the future.

Should government step-in and set standards? Heavens No!

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foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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extra » Auto Review

A True 4-Door Sports Car N submitted By: Brian West

issan has been making the Maxima for almost 30 years. It began with very humble beginnings, but by the mid 1990s Nissan had a formula that delivered, and it’s continued to get better each year since. Just 10 years ago, the Maxima had 230hp. Today, the tough 3.5 liter V6 delivers 290hp. This car may have 4 doors, but it can get a driver in trouble in a hurry.

The Maxima received a full redesign last year with a wider footprint for added stability. The overall styling continues to attract buyers looking for a sedan with power. The wider stance created an opportunity for designers to flare the fenders, most notably in the rear. Overall, it provides a subtly tougher look. It shares its basic front-wheel-drive architecture with the sporty Altima midsize sedan.

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Inside, a well designed interior provides comfort to both driver and passenger. The Maxima has a nice optional navigation system, much like the one found in the Infiniti G37. The iPod integration setup is easy to use, which can be a plus for most tech-savvy buyers these days.

After almost 30 years, Maxima continues to deliver

entry, dual-zone automatic climate control and a tilt/telescoping steering column, along with eight-way driver and fourway passenger power front seats, cloth upholstery and an in-dash six-CD changer.

The SV package adds integrated turn signals located in the exterior mirrors, fog lamps, a driver-seat manual thigh-support As long as you don’t feel the need to extender, power lumbar support, leather impress others with a status-oriented nameplate, the 2010 Nissan Maxima is upholstery and a nine-speaker Bose stereo definitely worth a look. Other choices upgrade with satellite radio. The Bose like the Acura TSX and TL, Hyundai sound system is wonderful. You may just Genesis V6 and Volkswagen CC are in the find yourself looking for reasons to spend Maxima’s price range and have equally nice time in the Maxima just to hear this sound interiors, but most lack the Maxima’s fun- system. The SV package can be paired to-drive nature. with the Premium or Sport packages -- both of which add paddle shifters and The 2010 Maxima is available in S and SV a power tilt-and-telescoping steering trim levels. The S package is standard with column.

18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, cruise control, a sunroof, keyless ignition/

The Premium package adds a dual-panel sunroof, a rearview camera, a power rear window shade, a 2GB music server that replaces the six-CD changer and a dedicated iPod interface. The Sport package features a sport-tuned suspension, 19-inch wheels, a rear spoiler and metalliclook interior trim. High-performance summer tires are an added option with the Sport package.

Regardless of the package, all models have the same power plant, and the 290hp under this hood is no different. This Maxima runs from zero to 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds, but still maintains an estimated 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined. In short, Maxima delivers! If you’re looking for a Maxima, visit the folks at Brandon Nissan and tell them you read this review in Focus Magazine.

Register for Spring Term 2011 December 13-January 14 Spring into the New Year!

HCC is the place for an affordable, quality education with smaller class size — and it’s closer to home.

Application deadline for Spring 2011 is December 14.

Register and apply online.

Classes begin on January 10.

For further information, go to hccfl.edu and click on HCC Live.

For financial aid information, go to fafsa.ed.gov.

Empowering You. Powering the Community.

Hillsborough Community College is an equal access/equal opportunity employer that makes employment and education-related decisions without regard to race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status or any other bias that is or may be prohibited by law. The college provides equal educational opportunities for qualified individuals with disabilities and complies with, as well as supports, the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Thank You!

In today’s economy, we would like to thank the community for your continued loyalty. It is important in these times that we remember to support our local businesses. Thank you, we truly look forward to a wonderful 2011.

Harold’s Feed & Pet Supply

Full Line of Feeds 813-689-1570

Corner of Martin L. King Blvd. & McIntosh Rd. • Dover, FL 33527 Open: M-F 8 to 6pm • Sat: 8-5pm • Closed Sunday foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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entertainment » dining profile Plant City Hometown Buffet 1914 James L Redman Pkwy Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 754-4488 Sunday - Thursday 11:00 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Friday - Saturday 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. cookies and candy. Authentic Blue Bell ice cream is served in several flavors.

Overall, it’s very fun to never run out of different things to try. I suspect if one wanted to try everything at the restaurant on their first visit they could not (unless they made a deliberate point and put one clam strip on their plate, one macaroni and cheese noodle, one steamed carrot slice, etc.

Then, maybe, after several plates and being ridiculously stuffed, you could brag that you proved John Ross wrong.)

Plant City Hometown Buffet Can a Buffet be Too Big? Apparently not F written By: John Ross

ans of food variety in Plant City have probably already discovered the mile long selection at Plant City Hometown Buffet. If you haven’t yet, this food review is our commission to you, dear Plant City resident, to go have a fun time stuffing yourself with as much of what you can at the Plant City Hometown Buffet.

FOCUS Magazine paid a surprise visit to meet the friendly Elaine, restaurateur, co-owner, and long time resident of Plant City. “Plant City is my hometown. I’ve lived here for 24 years,” she said. Family owned and opened in April, she says the restaurant thrives on attracting largely families and seniors.

With at least five bars of food packed with trays filled to heaping with hot (and cold) sustenance, there is no room for wanting a wider selection. We tried as much of it as we could, though three delicious plates in we realized our mission was hopeless - we would never be able to even taste everything in one sitting.

Starting with the seafood, there are

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steamed “U-peel-em” shrimp, mussels in the half shell on ice, and clam strips, to list a few. Stuffed crab lovers, this is your stop - made in the shell, the stuffing is warm, moist, and packed with refined seasoning making these perhaps the best stuffed crab shells I’ve had.

For land lovers there are hot wings, fried chicken, a huge roast waiting to be carved for anyone who wants a fresh slice, sirloin, and a lot more. I was pleased to find how easy it was to cut the medium-well steak and how juicy and flavorful it was.

Quality is evident in everything. The fried chicken is crispy, tender, and the breading is seasoned well. The gizzards are a cut above the rest - not overly chewy, and very flavorful. The mussels in the half shell are big and fresh.

Dessert at Hometown Buffet is over the top. Whole, gourmet cakes are waiting for your dinner sized plate to load up on.

Among them is cheesecake, brownies, apple pie, lemon cake, German Chocolate cake, even sugar-free cherry pie. There is a separate table exclusively for different

On Christmas day Plant City Hometown Buffet is serving dinner for $10.99 per person for those wanting to spend a little more time relaxing and celebrating instead of cooking. The hours on Christmas day are between 11:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.

» dining guide

special advertisement

chili’s

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hili’s has been spicing things up since 1975. There is something for everyones taste. From sizzling chicken or beef fajitas, fired grilled classic burgers or the new honey chipotle baby back ribs that are slow smoked over pecan wood so they’re “fall-off-the-bone” tender with a bold new honey-chipotle flavor that’s impossible to resist.

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

3001 James L Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33566 813-764-8548 • www.chilis.com

cowboy’s saloon and steakhouse

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owboys Steakhouse and Saloon features a restaurant for meat-loving southerners to enjoy southern cooking and a connected saloon to line dance in afterwards. Inside everything is wooden from the floors to ceiling. Come in and enjoy juicy steaks,but don’t forget about our fresh baked sour-dough, and other appetizers and entrees that are sure to make your mouth water.

106 State Road 60 E. Plant City, FL 33567-9253 813- 650-8888

Esposito Pizza

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traight from Naples, Italy Michael Esposito and Michael Jr. bring you authentic Italian pizza and other delicious items. This family owned and operated business brings 25 years of experience, traditional family recipes, and the freshest ingredients to the plate. Stop in to taste for yourself the calzones, unique pizza topping combinations, mouthwatering garlic knots and other Italian dishes.

2803 James Redman Pkwy Plant City, FL 813-704-5971

fred’s southern kitchen

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red’s Southern Kitchen is homemade cooking at its finest. We are proud to offer the best in family dining with recipes that have been developed from a 50 year Johnson family restaurant tradition. You’ll find crispy fried catfish and chicken, smoked ribs, homemade soups, fresh salads, casseroles, desserts, made from scratch entrees, along with our signature Southern vegetables.

1401 W. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd Plant City, FL 33565 813-752-7763 • www.FredsSouthernKitchen.com www.Facebook.com/FredsSouthernKitchen foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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» dining guide

special advertisement

kazbors

N

ew menu and new owners make a great blend for mouth-watering food, great drinks, friendly service and perfect family atmosphere. Not only is Kazbor’s is the best bar and grill in town to go to for lunch or dinner, but they’ve got the best wings for game night and some of the best drink prices around! Happy Hour is every day from 3-7pm and Thursdays are all you can eat wings for $9.95. With 20 TV’s and the NFL Sunday ticket, you’ll never miss a game!

2212James L Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-2700

mi casa

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

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

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

olde town pizzeria

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

3011 James L Redman Parkway Plant City, FL 33566 (813) 752-5800 • www.oldetownpizzeria.com

Plant City Hometown Buffet

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

They offer a wide variety of items spanning the five buffet bars, including seafood and steak. There is certainly something to fit every taste preference, whether you’re looking for fried chicken or a plethora of options to satisfy your sweet tooth. Stop in and see everything they have to offer at their very affordable prices!

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

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» dining guide

special advertisement

the red rose dining room

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he Red Rose Dining Room is the only 5-star rated restaurant in Plant City. Mrs. Evelyn Madonia invites you to allow Executive Chef Matteo Casini to take your taste buds on a delicious journey.

Enjoy an elegant setting and beautiful atmosphere for lunch or dinner. Tuesday and Wednesday evenings feature an all you can eat prime rib and seafood buffet. On the weekends you can catch fabulous entertainment (visit the website for upcoming shows).

2011 N Wheeler St Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-3141 • www.redroseinnandsuites.com

westshore pizza

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any and Cheryl Hosny are the proud new owners of the Plant City Westshore Pizza. Stop in and see the beautiful renovation they have done to the store! In addition, they have brought with them Bobby V’s original Westshore Pizza recipes that are the best in town! Stop in to try a slice, grab a Philly Cheesesteak sandwich, or just come meet the new family behind the great flavor!

1701 S Alexander St Plant City, FL 33566 813-754-5600 • www.westshorepizza.com

entertainment » red rose seating. Dinner music will be provided by Destiny. * Ring in the New Year in style with New Year’s Eve at the Red Rose Inn and Suites. Enjoy musical tributes to Rod Steward and Neil Diamond plus P J Leary and Ken Brady. This limited seating event promises a full evening of entertainment, a five star gourmet buffet, midnight toast, party favors, and balloon drop. In addition, a complimentary hot breakfast will be served at 1:00 am.

In addition, to enjoying the entertainment from top musical groups, the Red Rose Inn and Suites offers a great dining experience and amenities including guest rooms, suites, complimentary breakfast, full service lounge, pool area, health spa and more.

A romantic evening of dinner, dancing, musical entertainment and overnight in a Red Rose Inn Suite make a perfect holiday gift.

The legendary Royal Guardsmen appeared at the Red Rose Inn and Suites.

Photo courtesy of the Red Rose Inn and Suites

Snoopy Christmas Tribute Packs Red Rose Inn T written By: kelleigh klein

he Red Rose Inn and Suites welcomed the Christmas season with the legendary musical sensations known as The Royal Guardsmen. Their concert series named in honor of their tribute to Snoopy vs. The Red Baron (Snoopy’s Christmas) was a huge crowd draw. The song, as performed by The Royal Guardsmen in the late 1960’s sold millions of copies and thrust the band into a highly recognized top rock band. The Royal Guardsmen fame has spanned decades from the 1960’s continuing into 2010.

hits chart (www.classicbands.com).

The Four Guardsmen were originally from Ocala, Florida. Current band members include Bill Balogh (bass), John Burdett (drums), Chris Nunley (vocals), Pat Waddell (guitar), Billy Taylor (organ) and Barry Winslow (vocals and guitar). Many of the group’s musical hits spanning for decades can be found on Youtube.com. In fact, Snoopy vs. The Red Baron has tallied over a million viewer watches.

In addition to starting off the Christmas season with the musical sensations The In the 60’s the band could be seen Royal Guardsmen, the Red Rose Inn and performing in black and white videos Suites has a full event/concert series for wearing suits and thin black ties, with a hip this holiday season: rock and roll hairs styles and military type movements. With the success of Snoopy * Sunday Brunch with Santa on vs. The Red Baron in 1966, the band began December 19th. The event includes recording their first album. Songs from music from Lake Region High School their first album included songs like “Alley and a five star buffet including prime rib, Oop”, “Liberty Valance,” “Lil Red Riding Georgia peach glaze ham, sweet potato Hood,” and “Battle of New Orleans.” In casserole, salad and array of dessert and addition, the group was invited back to complimentary mimosas. the studio to create another Snoopy song * Christmas Day in the Ballroom on (“Return of the Red Baron”). The song December 25th. Seatings at 11, 1 and made it all the way to #15 on the US top 3:30. Santa will be attending each lunch

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To secure your reservation for a Red Rose Inn and Suites upcoming event or room, simply visit their website at www. redroseinnandsuites.com. The Red Rose Inn and Suites is conveniently located at 2011 N. Wheeler Street, Plant City, FL 33563 and can be reached by phone at (813) 752-3141.

Couples enjoy a night of dinner and dancing at the Red Rose Inn and Suites.

Photo courtesy of the Red Rose Inn and Suites

www.FredsSouthernKitchen.com

Eat Better. Love Life. Live Longer.

facebook.com/FredsSouthernKitchen

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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entertainment » artist of the month

Artist Transforms Into An Act Of Creation Her Life W written By: Heather Davis

hat is creativity and where does this desire to create come from?

Most often what we chose to create is an expression of our connection to the creator. For many the term that is used is “Being In the Flow”. The opening of ourselves to exploring, having, doing, and being creative is our direct and closest link to God or Divinity. We ourselves are the very essence of creation.

The very act of creation can be defined and reflected in many different ways.

Every little work in life no matter how humble can become an act of creation.

It is with this attitude that local artist Natasha Malpeli approaches everything she creates. The very act of painting is only one aspect of Mrs. Malpeli’s busy and full life that involves being a mother of four, a minister, as well as a professional songwriter and performer. She feels that the time that she has to paint is for her like taking a vacation. It refreshes and restores her body, mind, and spirit. With each painting that she breathes life into she creates with the desire to encourage

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and inspire others. All her paintings are inspired by an interpretation of what she sees in creation, whether she is walking on the 20 acres of her grandparents farm or in downtown Plant City.

With high hopes and faith, Mrs. Malpeli would like to see her art be used in a way that could fund crusade trips. In her words she would like to live on 10% and give away 90% to further her ministry.

Recently, Mrs. Malpeli has become the newest member of the downtown Art Lounge Gallery, as well as a participating member of the East Hillsborough Art Guild. She and her husband are also evangelists of Cynergy Ministries in Plant City and are working on receiving their Doctorates in Bible Study education.

By creating a connection with the Creator, Mrs. Malpeli is living her whole life as an act of creation and in this has found transformation and discovered true joy.

My glass art : http://www.etsy.com/shop/ gloryart also: www.Fineartamerica.com

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entertainment » event calendar

plant city

calendar of events

If you have an upcoming event and would like us to add it to our calendar of events please email the information to: editorial@floydpublications.com

Friday, December 17, 2010 » Visit Santa at the Red Caboose 2:00pm-6:00pm 908 Joe McIntosh Rd. Call 759-3345 for information. » A Christmas Concert & Light Spectacular 7:00pm-8:30 pm The Plant City Community Choir will be preforming at 3451 Silver Meadow Way, Plant City, FL (in the Silver Lake are of Walden Lake)...come See the lights and listen to the music LIVE!!

Saturday, December 18, 2010 » Visit Santa at the Red Caboose 2:00pm-6:00pm 908 Joe McIntosh Rd. Call 759-3345 for information. » Strawberry Classic Car Show 4:00pm - 9:00pm Historic Downtown Plant City Car Show, Vendors, Local Antique Shops open, Live Music, and Great Commeraderie. Parking in North and South lots near the Depot, Drane, and Palmer. For more information call 813-7543707.

Sunday, December 19, 2010 » Santa Sled Festival 10:00am - 2:00pm Sam Cooper Lake Sponsored by the PC BLack Heritage Celebration, Inc. For more information call Sharon Moody 453-7134

Monday, December 20, 2010 LAST DAY TO VOTE IN THE CHAMBER’S CHRISTMAS TREE CONTEST

Saturday, December 25, 2010 Christmas

Thursday, December 30, 2010 to Friday, January 7, 2011 » ISF Youth Softball World Cup 9:00am

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PC Stadium & Randy Larson Fourplex For more information call Laurie Gouthro 864-0100, lgouthro@isfsoftball.org, www.isfsoftball.org

Thursday, January 6, 2011 » Weight Loss Through Hypnosis 7:00pm-8:30pm A free seminar presented By: Darryl Schumacher, Certified Hypnotist Registration is required - space is limited, Burton Memorial Library, 302 W.McLendon St. Plant City,FL 33563 813-757-9215

Saturday, January 8, 2011 » 2011 Baby Parade 8:00am-10:00am Sign-ups will be as follows: 1 year olds 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

2 year olds 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

3 year olds 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

4 year olds 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

You are encouraged to come to the Saturday, January 8th registration because spaces are limited to the first 50 children for each age group. » Junior Royalty Pageant 6:00pm Sponsored by the Florida Strawberry Festival Florida Strawberry Festival Expo Building For information call: Chairperson Mrs. Donna Keel 754-6939 or Co-Chairperson Mrs. Krystal Almon 759-2827

Wednesday, January 12, 2010 » Chamber’s Contact Breakfast 7:30am At the Red Rose Inn & Suites.

Call the Chamber to RSVP 754-3707

Thursday, January 13, 2010 » From Stress to Success - Your Year is Here!

7:00pm-10:00pm Attend a life-changing, fast-paced and fun workshop presented by Born to Win author, James A. Smith, at Shiloh Baptist Church from Cost: $35 at the door or $25 in advance at http://www.facebook.com/l/3d17di_asXdtr1Xg_zKLGt0jrA;www.IWasBornToWin. com.

Ticket includes the 3-hour seminar plus James’ book - I Was Born To Win.

ONGOING EVENTS:

Strengthen that relationship. Lose that weight.

Land that job. Overcome your loneliness.

Reach those goals. Leave with new strategies that Smith uses with his Life-Coaching clients to help them with challenges such as stress, unemployment, bad economy, lay offs, anxiety, parenting, relationships, etc.

» Red Rose Inn & Suites Every Monday 7:00pm-9:00pm Learn to Dance with Susan Learn an easy, fun and fast method to start dancing with any partner on any dance floor. No partner needed. Call 863-604-5060 (small fee)

Friday, January 14, 2010 » Start of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Cultural Arts Festival.

Call 757-6760 for information on dates and the several events taking place.

Saturday, January 15, 2010 » Strawberry Classic Car Show 4:00pm-8:00am in downtown Plant City featuring 1986 and older cars and trucks. An added attraction is an exhibit of specialty trucks of all years.

Thursday, January 20, 2010 » Ed Verner in Concert Reception: 7:30pm | Concert: 8:00pm At the Photo Archives & History Center, 106 S. Evers Street. Admission is $50 and reservations are required due to limited seating.

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

Succulent steamed crab legs, even tender prime rib au jus with all the trimmings! All this plus salads and desserts to tempt the most demanding pallates! Music from Free Time Jazz. » Red Rose Inn & Suites Every Thursday Singles Night Out Happy Hour, Dance Contest, Bottle of Wine and $50 Gift Card Giveaway PLUS music from Destiny and either Mellissa Malone or Tony Johnson.!

120 S.T. 60 E. PLANT CITY, FL 33567

813-737-3259

COWBOYS STEAKHOUSE & SALOON OPEN FOR LUNCH & DINNER MON - THU- 11-10P.M. SAT 8A.M. - 11P.M SUN 8A.M. - 8 P.M.

SALOON

MON- TUE CLOSED *WED-SUN 9P.M. - 3A.M.

THE LATEST IN LINE DANCING AND TWO STEPPING FOUR FUJLL LIQUOR BARS WITH THE NEWEST COCKTAILS AND COLDEST BEER foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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entertainment » crossword

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foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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Hold on to your money.

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The instant tax refunds youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve heard of are really high interest loans.

So save your money and let us do your taxes free at more than 25 Hillsborough County locations.

Free tax preparation sites open Jan. 2011.

Call 2-1-1 for the location near you.

And hold on to more of your money.

www.unitedwaytampabay.org/freetaxhelp

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Find us on Facebook. Follow us @ UWTB on Twitter.

foCUS Magazine Plant City december 2010

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Ford full-page 9-25-10:Layout 1 9/27/10 3:43 PM Page 1

Ford Motor Co.Took NO Ford Motor Took Taxpayer Bailout Co. Money!

NO Taxpayer Bailout Money!

Ford full-page 9-25-10:Layout 1 9/27/10 3:43 PM Page 1

Ford Motor Co.Took NO

Even without taxpayer money, throughout the economic downturn, Ford Motor Even without taxpayer money, throughout the economic downturn, Ford Motor Company continued to invest in product initiatives.

Taxpayer Bailout Money!

Company continued to invest in product initiatives.

Ford is unsurpassed in: And Ford has accomplished this Without Government Bailout Money, tax dollars from hard-working Floridians who were affected by the downturn as much or more than anyone in the United States.

Quality

Fuel Efficiency

Technology

Safety

Even without taxpayer money, throughout the economic downturn, Ford Motor

For 15 years Jarret-Scott Ford has been proud to be a Ford Dealer, proud to sell Cars and Trucks that are made by a company withinitiatives. such strong to in: Company continued to invest in product Fordcommitments is unsurpassed And Ford has accomplished this Without Government Bailout Money, tax dollars from Americans.

And, through the economic downturn, Jarrett-Scott Ford has continued to employ over 60 people... your friends and neighbors. hard-working New Mexicans who were affected by the downturn as much or more than Fuel Efficiency Technology Quality Safety anyone in the United States.

We’re not bragging . . . these are the facts!  The 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid can go more than 700 city miles between fillups!

2011 Fiesta

2011 Super Duty

2011 Mustang GT

 The 2011 Ford Fiesta has the most standard airbags (7) in its class!

2011 Fusion Hybrid

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 The Ford F-Series is the number one-selling pickup in America for 33 years running!

 The Ford Fusion Hybrid is the 2010 North American Car of the Year!

 The 2010 Ford Focus was “Highest Ranked Compact Car” in initial quality!

 Ford has earned more 5-Star NHTSA Safety Ratings than Toyota, Honda or Nissan!



By Purchasing More Fords from Rich Ford than Dealer in New Mexico!  The 2010 Ford Fusion and F-Series Super Ford Fusion isAny a 2010Other “Top SafetyFord Pick”

Duty were named “Best Resale Value” in for midsize cars!

For 49 years Rich Ford of Albuquerque has been proud to be a Ford Dealer, proud to Blue sell Book! class by Kelley Cars and Trucks that are made by a company with such strong commitments to Americans.  The Ford Mustang is “Highest Ranked Midsize And, through economic downturn, Ford has continued to  employ over Ford 165 peoThe 2011 Super Duty has Best in Class Sporty Car” the in initial quality, 2 years inRich a row! ple... your friends and neighbors.

Horsepower, Best in Class Torque and Best in Class Fuel Economy!

 The Ford Taurus is the 2010 “Highest Ranked Large Car” in initial quality!

 The 2010 Ford Ranger has Best in Class Fuel Economy!

 The Ford Taurus is a “Top Safety Pick” for 3 years in a row!

2011 Escape Hybrid

2011 Taurus SHO

 The 2010 Ford Taurus was named “Best Resale Value” in its class by Kelley Blue Book!

2011 Focus

� The 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid can go more than 700 city miles between fillups!

� The 2011 Ford Fiesta has the most standard airbags (7) in its class!

� The Ford F-Series is the number one-selling pickup in America for 33 years running!

� The Ford Fusion Hybrid is the 2010 North American Car of the Year!

� The 2010 Ford Focus was “Highest Ranked Compact Car” in initial quality!

� Ford has earned more 5-Star NHTSA Safety Ratings than Toyota, Honda or Nissan!

� Ford Fusion is a 2010 “Top Safety Pick” for midsize cars!

� The 2010 Ford Fusion and F-Series Super Duty were named “Best Resale Value” in class by Kelley Blue Book!

� The Ford Taurus is the 2010 “Highest Ranked Large Car” in initial quality!

� The 2011 Ford Super Duty has Best in Class Horsepower, Best in Class Torque and Best in Class Fuel Economy!

� The Ford Taurus is a “Top Safety Pick” for 3 years in a row!

� The 2010 Ford Ranger has Best in Class Fuel Economy!

� The 2010 Ford Taurus was named “Best Resale Value” in its class by Kelley Blue Book!

� The Ford Fusion is Motor Trend’s 2010 “Car of the Year!”

Ford accomplished all this, and more, without taking taxpayer money!

A finance company owned and operated by Ford Motor Company

Rich Ford would like to thank... � New Mexico! � Ford Motor Company � Ford Motor Credit

2011 Fiesta

2011 Super Duty

2011 Mustang GT

2011 Fusion Hybrid

� 2000 East BakerMore St. |Fords Plantfrom City,Rich FL 33563

By Purchasing Ford than Any Other800-545-2018 Ford Dealer in New Mexico!

www.jarrettscottford.com

For 49 years Rich Ford of Albuquerque has been proud to be a Ford Dealer, proud to sell Cars and Trucks that are made by a company with such strong commitments to Americans.

And, through the economic downturn, Rich Ford has continued to employ over 165 people... your friends and neighbors.

 The2011 Ford Fusion is Motor Trend’s 2010 “Car F-150 of the Year!”

We’re not bragging . . . these are the facts!

� The Ford Mustang is “Highest Ranked Midsize Sporty Car” in initial quality, 2 years in a row!

And Ford has accomplished this Without Government Bailout Money, tax dollars from hard-working New Mexicans who were affected by the downturn as much or more than anyone in the United States.

2011 Escape Hybrid

2011 Taurus SHO

2011 Focus

2011 F-150

We’re not bragging . . . these are the facts! � The 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid can go more than 700 city miles between fillups!

� The 2011 Ford Fiesta has the most standard airbags (7) in its class!

� The Ford F-Series is the number one-selling pickup in America for 33 years running!

� The Ford Fusion Hybrid is the 2010 North American Car of the Year!

� The 2010 Ford Focus was “Highest Ranked Compact Car” in initial quality!

� Ford has earned more 5-Star NHTSA Safety Ratings than Toyota, Honda or Nissan!

� Ford Fusion is a 2010 “Top Safety Pick” for midsize cars!

� The 2010 Ford Fusion and F-Series Super Duty were named “Best Resale Value” in class by Kelley Blue Book!

� The Ford Mustang is “Highest Ranked Midsize Sporty Car” in initial quality, 2 years in a row! � The Ford Taurus is the 2010 “Highest Ranked Large Car” in initial quality!

� The 2011 Ford Super Duty has Best in Class Horsepower, Best in Class Torque and Best in Class Fuel Economy!

� The Ford Taurus is a “Top Safety Pick” for 3 years in a row!

� The 2010 Ford Ranger has Best in Class Fuel Economy!

� The 2010 Ford Taurus was named “Best Resale Value” in its class by Kelley Blue Book!

� The Ford Fusion is Motor Trend’s 2010 “Car of the Year!”

Ford accomplished all this, and more, without taking taxpayer money!

A finance company owned and operated by Ford Motor Company

800-920-0728

Lomas & Wyoming NE Visit Us at: www.rich-ford.com

Number 1 Ford dealer according to Ford Motor Co. statistics. 2011 Fusion Hybrid EPA estimate. F-Series #1 according to Ford Motor Co. statistics. 2010 Focus, Mustang, Taurus initial quality study by J.D. Power. Taurus top safety pick by IIHS. Taurus resale based on Automotive Lease Guide, Sept./Oct. 2010. Fiesta airbags in compact cars 2010 vs. competitors. 5-star NHTSA safety rating by US Dept. of Transportation. Fusion and Super Duty resale by KBB 2010. Super Duty torque, horsepower & economy based on Ford drive-cycle tests. Ranger based on Government Fuel Guide.

Rich Ford would like to thank... � New Mexico! � Ford Motor Company � Ford Motor Credit

800-920-0728

Lomas & Wyoming NE Visit Us at: www.rich-ford.com

888-533-0777

Number 1 Ford dealer according to Ford Motor Co. statistics. 2011 Fusion Hybrid EPA estimate. F-Series #1 according to Ford Motor Co. statistics. 2010 Focus, Mustang, Taurus initial quality study by J.D. Power. Taurus top safety pick by IIHS. Taurus resale based on Automotive Lease Guide, Sept./Oct. 2010. Fiesta airbags in compact cars 2010 vs. competitors. 5-star NHTSA safety rating by US Dept. of Transportation. Fusion and Super Duty resale by KBB 2010. Super Duty torque, horsepower & economy based on Ford drive-cycle tests. Ranger based on Government Fuel Guide.

1475 W Main St. • Bartow, FL 33830

www.BartowChevrolet.com 120

december 2010 thefocusmagazine.com