juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com2

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foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 3

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juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com4

We take the stress out of orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation.

Thanks to our exciting, new renovations, patients can now recover faster and more comfortably in their own specialized, private room. Our

10 luxury rooms are designed large enough to accommodate physical therapy equipment, so therapists can come to the patients. Rooms

include flat screen TVs and access to an internet and media café – with computers and ortho-ergonomic furniture. Even fold-out sleeper

sofas allow family members to stay over night. It’s the perfect healing environment in every way.

New Orthopedic Wing301 N. Alexander St. Plant City, FL 33563southfloridabaptist.com

For a referral to one of ourorthopedic surgeons, call 813-443-2018

Just what the doctor ordered.A new, dedicated orthopedic wing.

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 5

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com6

Publisher Mike Floyd

Office Manager Dede Floyd

cOPy editOr Lynne Warren

advertising directOrBrent Simmons

sales Sophia HydeSheryl Vitell iHolly Farmer

PrOductiOn Anthony SassanoTony CartagenaJoel Cook

fOcustvBrandon HydeKelleigh Klein

distributiOnDoug McGeeBelva DeVane

PhOtOgraPhersSuzanne GallagherBil ly FriendLori BlaserStephanie Humphrey

staff WritersCheryl Johnston Brian West Joe Bowles Derek Maul Kelleigh Klein Heather DavisLaura Estes Dan ConrodKristi Linbaugh Heather Davis Ken Lawrence Megan BraglinBrittany Cerny

cOntributOrsAl Ruechel Bruce Rodwell Gil GottJo-An Lusk Nate Davis

editOrial internsRaven Leverett

standards Of accuracyThe goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-warming stories that are accurate from the start. Being human, however, we some-times make mistakes. Please forgive us.

So if you notice anything that is incorrect, then please do not hesitate to contact the edito-rial department and inform it about the fact error. To do so, call (813) 707-8783 or e-mail editorial@floydpublications.com. The staff wil l f ix 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 con-sumers and customers to the fullest of abil it ies. You’re paying attention to our words. Let us pay attention to yours.

101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563

Phone 813.707.8783 • Fax 813.764.0990

published by:

floyd publications, Inc.

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

Letters, Questions and Com-ments can be sent to us at edi-torial@floydpublications.com.

Advertisers warrant and rep-resent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. FOCUS Magazine assumes no responsibil ity 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 necessari ly those of Floyd Publi-cations, Inc. Use or duplication of material used in this pub-lication is prohibited without approved written consent from Floyd Publications, Inc.

table of contentsFamily oF Community magazines

own your own FoCus magazine

FoCustV

JUNE 2010

LAKELAND EDITION

ConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodConrodGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGeneGene

Director of Lakeland Linder

Regional

greater winter haven eDitiOn

july 2010

BRANDON EDITION

Joseph E. ParrishJoseph E. Joseph E. Attorney at Law

Summer FunIn the Community

KeyStone RecoveryOffers Hope for Addictions

Dining ReveiwCopper Bell Cafe

KeyStone Recovery

Dining Reveiw

LAKE COUNTY EDITION

Zmax Radio Celebrates 1st Year Success

Also in This Issue: Networking in Lake County

south taMpa eDition

FoCusPlant City

Lakeland

Brandon

Winter Haven

Lake County

South Tampa

myFoCustV.ComLocal Community Stories

New Episode Every Wednesday

Licensed territories are available. If you are interested in owning your

own Focus Magazine call Mike Floyd at 813-707-8783 ext. 26

ontheCoVeRmrs. evelyn & batista medonia, sr.

photo by suzanne gallagher photography

14 loCalSummer is in full swing now, and with it Plant City is buzzing with activity. From charity fashion shows to the Juneteenth Culture Festival, and Local FFA students competing in national competitions to the dedication of Plant City’s new Veteran’s Park and memorial – there’s something for everyone. And remember, a great place to visit on a hot summer day is Plant City’s own Art Lounge Gallery, featuring local artists – including one of the newest members, Patci Sawyer.

47 featUre - bUSineSS foCUSThe businesses in a community depend on the support of the community’s residents. In an effort to support that concept, each summer Focus features profiles of several of our local businesses. We are pleased to showcase our neighbor businesses in this section. Check out who’s featured this month, and if you find you are in need of the services or products they provide, give them a call or visit…. and tell ‘em Focus sent you.

41 SPotligHt interVieWSouth Florida Baptist Hospital has continued through the years to provide needed services. In August, South Florida Baptist Hospital will be opening a Heart and Vascular Center because Cardiovascular disease kills more Americans than any other disease. South Florida Baptist Hospital is there to help people in the best way they can. Read more in the SPOTLIGHT section to see the full picture of how dedicated this hospital is to Plant City.

100 dining ProfileFor a great big taste of down-home BBQ at its best, you’ve got to try Smokin’ Joe’s BBQ & Grill in Lithia. A little south of Plant City proper, it’s one of the best BBQ experiences around, and it’s certainly affordable. Find out more in our Dining Profile, and then head down to Lithia to check out this out-of-the-way-jewel for yourself.

12 - talk of the town34 - did you Know?38 - Plant City Chamber of Commerce

71 - Home guide84 - athlete of the Month90 - Senior of the Month92 - al reuchel

94 - derek Maul106 - event Calendar108 - Just for fun

July 2010volume 9 issue 7

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 7

July 2010volume 9 issue 7

NEW LOCATION623 East Alexander Street • 813.759.9474at Alexander Crossings Plaza

TWO LOCATIONS TO BETTER SERVE YOU!

515 Corner Street, Brandon813-681-9473

Your SmileThe most attractive thing you can put on.

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

www.TheOrthoDoc.com

Braces and Invisalign for Children and AdultsFree Consultations • Affordable Financing Available

Certifi ed Premier Invisalign Provider

Most Insurances Accepted • Se Habla Español

TWO LOCATIONS TO BETTER SERVE YOUMEMBERSHIPS INCLUDE:

Board Certifi ed in Plastic, Maxillofacial & Reconstructive Surgery

The American Dental Association

The American Medical Association

American Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons

The American College of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons

The Florida Society of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons

The American Society of Dental Anesthesiologists

The Florida Dental Society of Anesthesiology

Board Certifi ed in Dental Anesthesiology

Wisdom teeth / Other extractionsDental Implants / Bone Replacement

Corrective Jaw SurgeryOral Cancer Screening/Biopsy

Facial Trauma RepairCosmetic Facial Surgery

Jack A. Davidson, DDS, MD, PLLCJack A. Davidson, DDS, MD, PLLCJack A. Davidson, DDS, MD, PLLC

Plastic, MaxillofacialReconstructive Surgery

623 East Alexander St., Plant City, FL(just north of Wal-Mart)

Phone #: (813) 571-1516Specialty: Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

www.davidsonsurgery.com

Brandon Location:1165 Nikki View Drive

Brandon, FL 33511

BrandonWe 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).

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 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 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.

From East Brandon (Hwy 60): Head west on Brandon Blvd/Hwy 60 towards Tampa. Left turn on Kings Ave. Take Kings Ave. south to Lumsden Rd. Right turn (West) on Lumsden 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 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.

PLanT CiTyFrom West Baker Street: Head southeast on W. Baker St toward N. Mobley St., continue to follow N. Alexander Street. Our office will be on the right.

From East Baker Street: Head west on E. Baker Street/Hwy 60/US 92W towards N. Wilder Rd, take the 1st left onto Park Rd, continue onto Jim Johnson Rd. Our office will be on the right.

From Turkey Creek road: Head north on Turkey Creek Rd 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.

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

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.

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BRANDON BLVD. (HWY. 60)

Lake BrandonProfessional Park

1165 Nikki View Drive

N

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BLOOMINDALE AVE.

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Plant City Dental Specialty - 623 East Alexander Street, Plant City, FL

Sedation Available

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com8

Visit our web site: www.feltonsmarket.comVisit our web site: www.feltonsmarket.com

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

PRODUCESPECIALIZING IN SPECIAL

CUTS OF MEATNo Order Too Big Or Too

SmallLargest 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

PRODUCEWIDE SELECTION OF HAMS

Low cholesterol items:Smoked Turkey WingsSmoked Turkey Necks

Fresh Turkey Tails & GizzardsSmoked Turkey Tails

Fresh GoatFresh Mullet/Catfish/Perch

Fresh Dressed, Grade A, Premium,

Ice-Packed Poultry

Leg Quarters 40-lb. box Fresh IBP Small and Med. Spare

RibsFresh IBP Lite Spare Ribs “Great for Barbecuing”

Fajitas by the package or the box

MEATSMEATS

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

WIDE SELECTION OF:#10 Can And Gallon Size Items

Martin’s Potato BreadEntenmann’s Bakery products

Goya • Lisy • La Costena• San Marco’s and La Dona Tortillas

GROCERYGROCERY

Every month readers flock to the stands to get the new issue of Focus to find the stories featuring their mom, dad,

child, neighbor or friend. We know this because anyone on our staff can tell you the stories of what happens on the 15th of each month. Sometime in the morning the phones start ringing and we take the calls all day “Where can I get the new issue?” or “I’ve driven to several boxes and they’re all empty, where can I find a new Focus?” We pick them up from the press at some point on the 15th and it takes all day, sometimes a day and a half, for our delivery staff to fill all the boxes. We love taking the calls though, because it just reminds us that the Plant City community embraces the magazine and depends on it for their local stories.

What many people don’t realize is that we as a staff can only take a very limited amount of credit for producing this resource to our community. It is completely funded by the business community of Plant City through advertising. Each summer for the last several years we have dedicated certain issues to be the “Business Focus” where we allow businesses the opportunity to tell the behind-the-scene stories about their companies. So many of our local businesses are family owned and operated and when you can understand the stories of the people behind the business name, it shows you what a vital role they play in our community.

This month, we are absolutely honored to feature on our cover a combination of two businesses whose impact on this community is infinite. South Florida Baptist Hospital not only helps to keep our community healthy, but they are constantly investing back into our town in so many philanthropic ways. While driving down Alexander Street, I am sure you have noticed the tremendous amount of construction taking place. They are in the process of building a new state-of-the-art heart and vascular center. Previously, there were certain services that required them to send patients to other hospitals in the Baycare network. However, SFBH will now meet the needs of our community in a whole new manner.

If you have not yet heard, the new center will be named after Mrs. Evelyn and Batista Madonia, Sr. Some people may only recognize the name as Evelyn Madonia from the Red Rose Dining Room commercials, billboards or ads. If you have never had the opportunity to meet this amazing couple or hear their story then you would never be able to appreciate the impact they have on our community. Beyond the pictures you see, there is a story of an incredibly generous couple who live their lives for others. However, not only do they philanthropically invest into our community, but the Red Rose Dining Room and the Red Rose Ballroom are unique luxuries to Plant City. If you have never dined at the Red Rose, then you are missing out on an incredible 5-star experience.

To see SFBH, Mrs. Evelyn and Batista Madonia, Sr. teaming up to bring a tremendous resource to our community is only appropriate. Also in this issue you will find many other behind-the-scene tales of businesses in our community who are here to support you. Please make sure that in return, you support them. Our business community is what keeps our community thriving.

letter from the publisher

Mike FloydPublisher

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 9

I’m always looking for ways to make your car insurance dollars work harder. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.® CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7

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Plant City, FL 33563Bus: 813-754-1725 Toll Free: 877-215-7281

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juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com10

We Represent You, Not Your Insurance CompanyContingency Fee Only..If You Don’t Get Paid We dont Get Paid

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It’s not too late even if you’ve been paid. When you have a new claim, denied claim or a current claim.....

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across from Beef O’ Brady’s813.754.4141

European Designers ARTIST IN YOUPaint Your Own Pottery Studio

Choose your ceramic piece, pick your design, select your colors...

Create Your Masterpiece!116 West Reynolds Street, Plant City

813-704-5957NO studio fees, ALL INCLUSIVE

Mon-Thurs 9 AM - 7 PMFri-Sat 9 AM - 9 PMSun 12 PM - 5 PM

Crescent JewelersDiamonds are a Girls BEST FRIEND

Established 1947

BACK HOME IN PLANT CITY

Come see our new store location 1514 S. Alexander Street, Suite 108, Plant City, FL

813-752-2413813-752-18181705 Sammonds Rd, Plant City

The local shop for all your gardening needs!Carrying seeds, plants, fertilizer, chemicals and other supplies to

help your garden grow.

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 11

AMERICAN BOARD CERTIFIED

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consultation Offer expires 8/15/10.

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Hometown Banking at its best!

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medical office for rent

call 941-756-4848

Approx 2,000 sq ft

Excellent Location, across from

South Florida Baptist Hospital Isn’t it beautiful?

Let’s keep it that way!

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com12

local » focus

talk ofthetown

plant city’s

the florida strawberry festival

Garcia family foundation scholarship

50th weddinG anniversary

conGratulations mayor dan raulerson!

plant city entertainment, inc. election of board of directors

midsummer melodies to fill the air

The Florida Strawberry Festival, which hands out dozens of blue ribbons each year, has received one to call its own.

The Florida Federation of Fairs recently presented the festival with its blue ribbon award. The federation bases the honor on a rigorous judging of the state’s top fairs. The federation’s mission is to improve the quality of Florida agricultural fairs.

Festival General Manager Paul Davis accepted the award from federation President Artie McIntyre.

“The Florida Strawberry Festival is honored to have been selected as a Blue Rib-bon Fair for 2010 as this is a direct tribute to the hard work of the many dedicated volunteers and our staff,” Davis said.

The festival has celebrated the area’s biggest crop since 1930. The next festival is March 3 to 13.

Promise Goodwine was recently recognized as a recipient of the Garcia Family Foundation Scholarship. This scholarship is a pre-paid tuition scholarship that cov-ers 4 years of college at a college or university in Florida. Promise a 9th grader at Plant City High School was selected based on her academic achievements, school and community involvement as well as demonstrating need. Mr. Martin Garcia, President of the Garcia Family Foundation, made the presentation at Plant City High School on the “Raider Television Network” where all students and faculty could enjoy the presentation. Promise will be a participant in the “Taking Stock in Children”program sponsored by Hillsborough Education Foundation. Through this program she will meet weekly with a mentor selected from the community.

Our family cordially invites you to join us for a special night honoring the 50 years of marriage of Kenneth & Eloise Leab, Friday, the twenty-third of July Two thou-sand and ten at 7 o’clock. First Thonotosassa Missionary Baptist Church10650 McIntosh Road, Thonotosassa, Florida

Your love and friendship is a treasured gift,we request no other.

The city has a new mayor for the first time in three years. Dan Raulerson was unanimously selected by his fellow commissioners for a one-year term in the mayor’s office.

Raulerson, a CPA who owns an accounting firm, was appreciative of his selection as mayor.“We want to continue to remain excellent at what we do,” Raulerson said. “We have the greatest employees and supervision in the country. And as mayor I have great resources around me. Every member of our commission has been mayor or vice mayor. Together we will do great things for the city.”

The general meeting open to all members of Plant City Entertainment, Inc. will be held Tuesday, July 20th at 7:00 P.M. at the Plant City Entertainment, Inc. theater located at 101 N. Thomas Street in Plant City. The election of new members of the Board of Directors will be held at that time. Members must be present at the meet-ing in order to vote. New memberships and memberships requiring renewal will be accepted prior to the meeting. Membership prices are: Individuals - $15.00 per year, Families - $20.00 per year, Seniors and Students - $10.00, Senior Families - $18.00.

Board members whose terms of office are expiring are: Hal Brewer, Marsha Pass-more, Tyler Hollis and Betty Roney.

The slate of candidates running for election to the board include: Hal Brewer, Mar-sha Passmore, Betty Roney, Lou Baird, Coy Permenter, Paul Hettrick and Corey Wade. Candidate nominations will also be accepted from the floor.

The Arts Council of Plant City will host Midsummer Melodies on Saturday, July 31st at the Red Rose Inn and Suites in Plant City. The evening will begin fea-ture a musical medley of pop, jazz, opera and Broadway show tunes that will be performed by a talented cast from Plant City and Tampa. The performers include Gigi Burns, Ray Chiarmonte, Tony Garcia, Dennis Hoag, Sandi Norman, Vivian Padron, Jose Rodriguez, Rossana Spallino, and Rich Wellons, many of whom have performed at previous Arts Council concerts.

The evening begins with cocktails at 6:30, dinner at 7 and the performance of song and dance will begin at 8pm. The cost of $40 includes appetizers, dinner and des-sert and a cash bar will be available. A silent auction to raise funds for Arts Council activities, including student scholarships, will take place during the event.

Tickets are available at the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center at 106 S. Evers Street in Plant City. For more information, please call 813-754-1578.

Check out current and past issues of FOCUS Magazine online at:www.myfocustv.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 13

local » focus

talk ofthetown

plant city’sfundraiser yard sale and pancake breakfast

roy h. adams art exhibit

kocab memorial fund

mike davis turns 54multiple author book siGninG

and writers’ workshop

rotary president elect

ryan nece foundation

Help a great cause on Saturday, August 7 from 7:AM to noon at the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 1107 Charlie Griffin Road. The fundraiser yard sale and pan-cake breakfast will benefit 28-year-old Monique Levesque and assist with medical bills following an extensive organ transplant to combat the Crohn’s disease she has suffered with most of her life.

Most Plant City residents will recognize her 85-year-old father Norman as a now-retired Wal-Mart greeter.

What can people do? Donate goods or money. Come and support the sale by purchasing items and enjoying a first class breakfast.

For further information, contact the church (813)759-9383 or Dave Bowden (813)754-4505.

Roy H. Adams is an international artist and has traveled as far away as Mexico and Germany. However, Adams has been a citizen of Plant City for eight years. Currently, he has an exhibit at the Plant City Chamber of Commerce until the end of July. The art pieces include: print making, photography, and one large painting. These pieces are available for purchase. For more information visit his website, www.printmaker.mysite.com.

A fund has been set up for the family of Jeffrey Kocab. Officer Kocab was killed during a routine traffic stop while serving as a police officer for Tampa Police Department. His wife, Sara Kocab, is a dean at Kathleen Middle School.

Those who would like to contribute to the fund may make a check payable to MID-FLORIDA Credit Union with Kocab Memorial Fund in the memo line. Checks or cash may be dropped off at any MIDFLORIDA Credit Union branch or mailed to:

MIDFLORIDA Credit Union1551 Gary RoadLakeland, FL 33801

For further information, contact Dr. Bruce Tonjes, Associate Superintendent of School Based Operations at (863) 534-0521.

Mike Davis turned 54 years old last November, but by looking at him, you would never guess his age! The Dover resident has been married to Pam for 27 years, a father of 4 boys Aaron, Nate, Adam and Lance. Mike is also believe it or not a grandpa of 4 too. He started working out in the gym as a hobby about 15 years ago. Then 2 years ago started to ponder the idea of competition. With work inter-ruptions and busy schedules he finally started training in February of this year for the 2010 Tampa Bay Classic that took place in June. A week before the Tampa Bay Classic, Mike decided to get a “practice show” in under his belt and competed in the NPC Central District Body Building Championship in Lakeland, FL which he won 1st place in his category, Men over 50! With still many nerves Mike did a wonderful job and made his friends and family very proud of him the night of the Tampa Bay Classic..he placed 2nd in his show, Men 50 to 59!

Our wonderful new Christian bookstore is hosting an event to encourage local authors on Saturday, August 14, 2010 at Truth Christian Store and Event Center, 301 South Collins Street, in Plant City’s historic district. Five local authors will sign copies of their books from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., where coffee and light refresh-ments will be served. In conjunction, from 1:00 to 2:00, Seffner author of multiple books, Debora Coty will present a free workshop: “So, You Want to be a Writer.”

Come meet the following inspirational writers: Debbie Coty (Mom Needs Choco-late and Prayers for Daughters), Mills C. Cooper (Generation Curse), Ken Jones (A Prodigal Returns), Richard Mull (Lord, Disciple Me and Lord, Heal Me), and Douglas Tatro (Golfing with God).

Congratulations to Jim Scott for being elected 2010-2011 Presidential elect.Congratulations to the out going president Jimmy Carapezza for a job well done!

Ashlyn Robinson with a 6.06 grade point average and Haylee Dietrich with a 5.87 grade point average were recently recognized at Plant City High School by The Ryan Nece Foundation. Each month two students are recognized, one male and one female, are selected from high schools in both Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties by The Ryan Nece Foundation. Monthly winners were selected on academic ac-complishments as well as community service through school organizations as well as out of school organizations. All the winners for each month were honored on June 3rd and presented with an autographed football by Ryan Nece, former Tampa bay Buccaneer player and founder of the award.

good samaritan awards program

at the plant city chamber of commerce

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

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com14

plant city veterans memorial park dedicated

A summer downpour did not dampen the patriotic dedication of the new Plant City Veterans Memorial Park

at Courier Field. In fact, someone in the crowd was heard to say, “It’s tears from heaven as we remember our troops!”

Perhaps event committee chairwoman Marsha Passmore said it best: “We didn’t order the rain, but it serves as a reminder that our troops don’t get to choose the weather or working conditions. They are in harm’s way regardless of the weather!”

The Plant City Armed Forces Memorials Foundation president, Navy veteran B.M. “Mac” Smith, Jr., was also right when he predicted the crowd would be “pleasantly surprised” at the completed park that was first envisioned five years ago.

Pleased and definitely impressed they were. The July 1st late afternoon dedication and monument unveiling, attended by more than 750 patriots, will be remembered as a

milestone in the city’s history.

Working in collaboration with the City of Plant City, foundation members planned, raised funds for, and facilitated development of the two-acre park at the junction of Wheeler and Herring Streets. The resulting Plant City Veterans’ Monument is a public/private partnership project and the perfect place to pay tribute to veterans from all United States Military branches since the American Revolution.

Even more than the manicured grounds and the inspirational sculpture, the crowd was appreciative of the homage paid to our “men and women that served, fought, and died in service to our country” and for our freedom.

Many participated in the program to honor our veterans. Joe Sedita, the committee’s secretary/treasurer, served as master of ceremonies. Reverend Timothy Knighten, Sr., of St. Mary’s Community Church, gave the invocation and thanked

God for blessing America and our city. While surrounded by committee members, Jennifer Closshey and Charles Harris cut the dedication ribbon. Erica Der, aide to Congressman Adam Putnam, then read his proclamation, which saluted our soldiers by referencing John 15:13 in Scripture: “Greater love has no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.”

Once the Durant Air Force ROTC Honor Guard presented the colors, retired Marine Silver Star recipient Carl Dekle raised the flag and attendees proudly pledged

allegiance “under God” to our nation’s symbol of freedom. After the four ROTC students explained the sacred meaning in the twelve folds of our flag, Kristen Smith, 2008 Strawberry Festival Queen, sang the national anthem.

The Plant City Garden Club was recognized for its invaluable role and many hours invested in beautifying the grounds with more than 1,100 shrubs and flowering plants. Next, two members, Cassandra Banning and Darcy Stottlemyer, presented the Blue Star Memorial, which designates highways in honor of our U.S. armed forces. The current list of those designated as Blue Star Memorial in Florida includes: U.S. 1, 17, 19, 41, 90, 92, 98.

The program originated in 1945, when the Blue Star, taken from the star in the service flag, was selected as a symbol for the memorial because it was used during WWII on flags and homes of families with sons or daughters in the military. Eventually, the program was expanded to include Memorial Markers and Memorial By-Ways, which are used in national cemeteries, parks, veterans’ facilities, and gardens. Plant City’s marker has now found a permanent home at Veterans’ Park.

Mac Smith and Ed Verner condensed their keynote remarks because of the rain and the crowd’s desire to see the park’s centerpiece, the monument. The crowd waited patiently as Closshey and Robert

Showalter pulled ropes to remove the black veil from “Freedom Rising.” The proud moment continued with everyone singing “America the Beautiful.”

“Freedom Rising” is a world-class 14’ tall bronze and granite monument, designed and crafted by award-winning Sarasota artist Duane Scott. Bronze emblems of the five U.S. armed forces – Air Force, Army,

monument marker acknowledges the sacrifice of men and women who have served in america’s armed forces. Photo by David Moore

local » focus

written by: ChEryl Johnston

“it’s tears from heaven as we remember our troops!”

continued on page 15

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 15

Coast Guard, Marines, and Navy – are mounted on the six-sided black granite base, along with the naming plaque. Atop the base, the bronze bald eagle, positioned for liftoff, clutches an American flag.

Showalter Construction, the contractor hired by the foundation, used more than 8,000 bricks in the walkways winding around the gathering area and presentation gazebo. For $150, bricks can be engraved to honor individuals who have served in America’s military. Proceeds will be used for park maintenance.

Hospitality was also an important part of the celebration. The Strawberry Festival Queen and Court distributed programs. Taylor Rental provided the refreshment tent where custom cupcakes by Sweetbay Supermarkets, bottled water from Culligan Water, and ice cream from Blue Bell were served. The Florida Strawberry Festival delivered 200 red chairs to enhance the patriotic color scheme.

Jennifer Closshey reflected on the historic day: “More than 750 people attending the dedication in the rain demonstrated the love this community has for its Veterans! It was amazing to see all the umbrellas pop up. People had come prepared to stay. They wanted to be part of this history... our history. Strangers shared their umbrellas and made new friends. This is what Plant City is all about!”

Committee member Phil Waldron also expressed his appreciation for the great turnout and community support, saying, “Five years ago we, the Veterans

Committee, undertook a project that many would have considered unattainable. At the dedication, as I watched our Nation’s flag unfurling, it made me reflect on my 30+ years of military service to my Country in the United States Coast Guard. With a lump in my throat, I thought about how our community had come together to create a lasting monument and ‘thank you’ to service members who fulfilled their duty to preserve what this City and great Nation believed in and stood for. Thank you, Plant City, from all past, present, and future service members. This day is a proud moment in our history.”

Marsha Passmore agrees: “By Plant City showing honor and tribute to all military veterans, it demonstrates what small town America is, and it is what makes living in this wonderful country paramount. God bless Plant City, and God bless America.”

Order forms for engraved bricks are available from www.veteransmonument.com or at three locations: City Hall, Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, or Plant City Photo Archives.

To contribute or volunteer, visit veteransmonument.com. The Plant City Armed Forces Memorials Foundation, Inc. is an IRS-qualified 501c3. All contributions are tax deductible. Donations payable to the Plant City Armed Forces Memorial Foundation, Inc. can be mailed to: Joe Sedita, Sedita Kilton & Company, CPA, at 104 Evers St. North, Suite 202, Plant City, Florida 33563. Contributions can be delivered to Plant City Photo Archives, 102 Evers Street, Plant City, Florida 33563.

plant city veterans’ memorial monument

engraved bricks at monument park commemorate veterans with connections to plant city. Photo by David Moore

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continued from page 14

Catch more on this story on FoCusTV Episode 88at myfocustv.com

the boy scouts of america take seriously the challenge that the older generations should teach the younger. Photo by David Moore

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com16

FAMILY KARATECENTER

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www.byrd-law.comThe hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based upon advertisements. Before choosing a lawyer ask for written information about the lawyer’s legal qualifications and experience.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 17

fashion for life profits hospital foundation

over 200 attendees enjoyed an evening of fun and fashion. The recipient of this year’s charity fashion show

proceeds was the South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation.

The South Florida Baptist Hospital Foundation provides philanthropic support to South Florida Baptist Hospital. The foundation is run by Executive Director, Judy D. Martin. South Florida Baptist Hospital is a 147-bed community hospital that offers all of the high-tech services of an acute care hospital, but in a small, warm and friendly environment designed for personal attention and compassionate care. The hospital offers complete services in diagnostic, surgery, rehabilitation, adult acute and intensive care, radiology, pediatric and adolescent services and obstetrics. South Florida Baptist Hospital is part of the BayCare Health System, a leading community-based health care system (www.sjbhealth.org). The hospital is located at 301 N. Alexander Street, Plant City.

A blend of professional and hometown models strutted and danced down the runway to pop culture tunes from the 80’s.

The trendy fashions models wore were the most current, found locally at Sister’s and Company Boutique. Models included locals Summer Norris, Regan Knotts, Holly Stein Collins, Crystal Ramano and Holly Farmer. The fashion show director of models and choreography was talented model Christin Long.

Presenting contributors for this year’s fashion show included Foundation Executive Director, Judy Martin and Evelyn and Batista Sr. Madonia of the Red Rose Inn and Suites. Table sponsors for the evening included B & N Welding, Crawford Hill Interiors, Dianna Lott, Fred’s Southern Kitchen, Friends of SFBH, FOCUS Magazine, Hopewell Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, Pexco Produce, Southern Hospitality and Tancredo Law Firm.

The evening consisted of a red carpet entrance with photographer Stephanie Humphrey on hand to capture photo memories of individuals, friends and the show. Pre-fashion show, attendees enjoyed scrumptious appetizers and desserts while checking out raffle items and current fashion trends and jewelry at the mini Sister’s store set up in the

back of the ballroom. Fred’s Southern Kitchen donated dessert for the evening. Gift sponsors for attendees and the raffle included Crawford Hill Interiors, Studio 3, Mango Family Cleaners and Dental Associates at Walden Lake.

At the helm of this successful event is the talented and creative Devony Scott, co-owner of Sister’s and Company. Devony and her mother, Cathy Davenport co-own the upscale ladies boutique with two locations (104 E. Reynolds Street, Plant City and 14145 7th Street, Dade City). Sister’s and Company, established in 1996, is the home of fabulous gifts, accessories and current fashions. In both Sister’s and Company stores customers will find name brands like Brighton Collectibles, Vera Bradley Designs and clothing designed by Samuel Dong, NYDJ, Lynn Ritchie, Barbara Lesser, Mesmorize and more.

The Sister’s and Company mission is to provide customers with an experience that makes shopping or gift giving easy and enjoyable. According to Sister’s and Company, “As a Recognized Brighton Heart Store”, we are committed to a very high standard of customer service for our customers (www.sistersboutiques.com).

For a second year in a row, fashion diva, Devony Scott, has successfully hosted a leading fundraising event in Plant City benefiting a great cause through fun and fashion. For more information about Sister’s and Company, call (813) 754-0990.

a blend of professional and hometown models strutted and danced down the runway to pop culture tunes from the 80’s. Photo by Stephanie Humphrey Photography

model and choreographer christin long Photo by

Stephanie Humphrey Photography

local » focus

written by: KEllEigh KlEin

Fashion for Life . . . beauty, glamour, glitz, . . . Sister’s and Company’s second annual charity fashion show, held at the Red Rose Inn & Suites, was the in vogue place to be on Thursday, June 17th.

photos by

Catch more on this story on FoCusTV Episode 87at myfocustv.com

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com18

ROAD RUNNERVETERINARY CLINIC

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AVAILABLE 365 DAYS A YEAR, 24 HRS A DAY tea of siGnificanceon June 19th the community came

together to support the preservation of human life through their aid

of the Pregnancy Care Center of Plant City (PCCPC). Individuals, businesses, and church organizations sponsored tables which they adorned in tea time décor. Themes ranging from patriotism, springtime, and traditional English tea time, to ocean life graced the Evangelical Presbyterian Church. The aroma of steaming tea and traditional hors’ devours, provided by the Camellia Rose Tea Room, filled the air.

Ms. Sharon Boggs, a Pro-Life Advocate, felt extremely passionate about the event, sponsoring five tables. “Foo-foo is my thing”, she jokingly smiles. Boggs feels that the most important thing the Center initially provides women is the knowledge that they have time to make a tough decision. Boggs hopes clients are well informed before deciding the fate of an unborn child.

Emotionally, Mrs. Helen Everidge shared with me the story of her own grandsons (now 4 and 6). They would have been among the abortion statistics, had it not been for other options offered to their biological mothers, such as adoption.

Mrs. Jessica Stevens, a mother and

educator, stated, “There are laws to protect the sea turtles, but nothing to protect our unborn babies”.

Ms. Rachel Burgin spoke of the recent bill that she and others lobbied for in the Florida Congress. Burgin stated that only one female representative, Rhonda Storms, spoke for the merit of the bill that was passed but ultimately vetoed by Governor Crist. “All phases of life are our responsibility, including the women making the choice to abort.”, states Burgin. Marie Probosco sang a moving tribute in unison with John Taylor’s video production of a fetus developing to full term. Also presenting, Pastor Chuck Edmondson of Springhead Baptist Church, Dana Landers of the I Wait Program, and several PCCPC affiliates spoke about the services the Center provides. The event was bursting with hope for the future of the Pro-Life Movement and the women in crisis of Plant City. The Center continuously needs maternity and baby related supplies, volunteered time, and monetary donations.

To Donate:

Plant City Pregnancy Care Center304 N. Collins St.Plant City, FL 33566759-0886 or 1-800-395-HELP

renee corzine, mistress of ceremonies and pccpc board president and dana landers, i wait program director. Photo by Megan Braglin

local » focus

written by: MEgAn BrAglin

Dr. Brenda Dukes • Chiropractic Physician752-2524 • 2401 Walden Woods Dr. • Plant City, FL 33566

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

Dr. Brenda DukesChiropractic Physician

GIVE SOME SUMMERTIME RECOMMENDATIONS…

It is easy to overdo it by taking long trips, lifting heavy items, lugging items too far andbending the wrong way to do different activi-ties. When you take a long trip to your friend’s or relative’s house, stop the car and take a break every few hours to stretch yourlegs. This will recirculate the blood and re-store your normal posture, helping to preventany neck and back pain. Adjust the car’s headrests so they are less than two inchesbehind the center of the head. Millions of people would not get whiplash injuries if their automobile seat headrests were correctly adjusted.

Everyone should use caution in hiking to have proper attire especially footwear. Also,with swimming, warm up with stretches to maximize the benefits and reduce possiblestrain. Many are staying dehydrated not drinking enough water with the increasedtemperatures and humidity. That is very important if you visit any of our manyAmusement Parks in the area. Along with drinking more water try not to carry heavy

bags, instead have them on straps over both shoulders.

Remember, try and walk in the early morn-ing, late afternoon or evening. Once again, you must stretch before exercising, increase your heart rate and then do a cool down.

Remember, all of your summer activities will be better and have greater benefit if youreceive chiropractic adjustments. Grey’s Anatomy states, “The nervous system con-trols and coordinates all organs and structures of the human body.” So, whatever activityyou do, remember the chiropractic adjust-ments helps the body function and communi-cate better for greater health benefits.

Blessings,Dr. Dukes and Staff

SPECIAL BIRTHDAY BLESSINGS…to our sister and brother-in-law, Debbie andLarry Swindle. May God continue to bless you both. Love You…

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 19

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Juneteenth culture festival 2010 honoring african american heritage

summertime celebrates freedom. School’s out and family celebrations are in – Memorial Day, Fourth of

July, and Juneteenth.

In preparation for our local event, PCHS sophomore, Wachovia Sherman explained the holiday’s significance at a recent city council meeting. For a brief history and vocabulary lesson, read on.

Also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, Juneteenth honors African American heritage by commemorating the announcement of slavery’s abolition in Texas in 1865. Celebrated on June 19 and recognized as a state holiday in 36 of the 50 states, the term is a portmanteau (word blending) of June and nineteenth.

Thirty months after Abraham Lincoln signed the 1863 Emancipation Proclamation, Major General Gordon Granger with 1,800 Union Army troops

arrived in Galveston on June 19, 1865, to read aloud an order freeing the quarter-million slaves who may not have understood they’d been pronounced free after the Civil War.

Traditionally, Juneteenth celebrations recount the past, but nationally the perspective is now one of encouragement for African American self-development and respect for all cultures.

Approximately 600 folks gathered June 19th at Sam Cooper Lake Park. Plant City’s freedom festival included five music groups, dancing, delicious food, and vendors. Gospel music was provided by Gennao Ensemble of Tampa, rapper Daddy’s ‘baby of Lakeland, and local vocalist Jarvis Range. The Music Makers of Lakeland and The Mix entertained with R&B tunes. Visual artists Cynthia Bailey and Greg Crumbley displayed their work.

Children’s activities included horseback rides provided by Auburndale’s Horsemen

United in Christ, face painting by Janice Fondley, and fishing tips shared by Russell Goodwine.

The event was wonderful, but the food alone is worth a 2011 visit. Vendors prepared BBQ ribs and chicken, crabs, fried fish and pork chop sandwiches, chicken wings, corn-on-the-cob, potatoes, French fries, Red Velvet and strawberry cake, sweet potato pie, and homemade cookies.

Sharon Moody, President of Plant City Black Heritage Celebration, Inc., has coordinated the last six years’ plans and the committee now meets monthly to organize Juneteenth 2011. Officers include VP Sam Miller, treasurer Dorothy Smith, and secretary Steve Wilson. Cynthia Bailey, Carolyn Brown, Peggy Goodwine, Dee Sears, and James Washington serve as directors.

children enJoyed the horseback rides provided by the Horsemen United in Christgroup from Auburndale. Photo courtesy Sharon Moody

festival hours from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. allowed plenty of time for fishing. Photo courtesy of Sharon Moody

local » focus

written by: ChEryl Johnston

“Juneteenth honors african american heritage

by commemorating the announcement of slavery’s

abolition in texas in 1865. ”

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 21

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festival donationstimulates continued research for namesake berry

the Florida Strawberry Festival recently contributed funds to support continued research efforts leading

to the quality growing of their namesake berry (‘Strawberry Festival’) and more. On Wednesday, March 7th, Festival Chairman, Mike Sparkman presented a $20,000 check on behalf of the Festival to researchers affiliated with the University of Florida’s Gulf Coast Research and

Education Center (GCREC) at Balm. This generous donation was given to support critical research during lean economic times.

Researchers Dr. Jack Rechcigl (Professor and Center Director), Dr. Bielinski Santos (Horticultural Sciences -) and Vance Whitaker (Horticultural Sciences – strawberry breeding) were on hand

to represent the Center. Dr. Whitaker indicated that the funding would go to support graduate student scholarships for Master’s Degree students working in horticulture research. The mission statement of GCREC is to develop and disseminate new scientific knowledge and technology regarding commercial agriculture that will assist Florida’s producers to be competitive in the world economy.

According to the University of Florida IFAS, the ‘Sweet Charlie’ berry was introduced in 1992 as a result of research efforts being led by the IFAS strawberry breeding program and Horticulturalist Craig Chandler. This berry produced higher fruit yields than any other berry during the December – February season. The percentage of the west central Florida strawberry acreage planted in ‘Sweet Charlie’ rose steadily from 5% in the 1992 – 1993 seasons to about 50% in the 1998 – 1999 seasons. Concurrently, the average price per flat rose from $8.00 to $12.00 and total value of the crop rose from $109 million to $161 million (Source: USDA Agricultural Statistics Service). The ‘Sweet Charlie’ continues to be successfully grown world-wide.

The Florida strawberry industry has also continued to grow. In fact, Florida is the second leading state in the U.S. for the production of fresh market strawberries and is the major supplier of winter strawberries to the eastern U.S. and Canada. There are over 8,000 acres in production, with a crop value approaching $300 million. This growth is in part,

being fueled by the ‘Strawberry Festival’ variety. This variety can produce high yields of flavorful fruit, and its fruit have a significantly longer shelf life than that of ‘Sweet Charlie’ (Source: University of Florida, IFAS). According to Dr. Rechcigl, “‘Strawberry Festival’ makes up about 65% of the local cultivar and is grown in over 34 countries worldwide.”

Part of the berry growing process includes research involving better uses of water to insulate berries during cold snaps. Researchers studying water management, plant pathology, alternatives to water usage and the use of tunnels to help prevent frost damage and more add important pieces of information to the successful growing and harvesting of strawberries. The GCREC models a “Team Approach” to agricultural research as the leading researchers world-wide in a variety of research disciplines are housed at the Center. For more information about the GCREC visit www.gcrec.ifas.ufl.edu.

In order for dedicated research to growing strawberries to continue, funding is critical. The Strawberry Festival Board feels strongly that during these tough economic times, their donation is more important than ever. With state led research efforts and funding being reduced, Festival General Manager Paul Davis said, “the Festival Board feels it is vital to support research efforts that benefit our community.” For more information about the Florida Strawberry Festival, visit www.flstrawberryfestival.com.

florida strawberry festival chairman, mike sparkman, presents a $20,000 festival donation to drs. vance whitaker, bielinski santos and Jack rechcigl.

Photo by Kelleigh Klein

local » focus

written by: KEllEigh KlEin

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 23

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juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com24

new ffa proGram experiences early success strawberry crest high school students headed to national

competition

susan Mayo, Career & Technical Department Head and Agriculture & Natural Resources Educator at

Strawberry Crest High School, and her FFA students have a lot to be proud of. Strawberry Crest High School opened its doors as the newest high school in the area for the 2009-2010 school year. Although the school drew students from several existing area schools, Hillsborough County Schools has a practice of not transferring incoming seniors to begin a new school, so the oldest students at Strawberry Crest this year were juniors. The new FFA program began with 114 members, and was such a success that this coming year they expect to add a junior chapter for incoming freshmen. Now they’re preparing to compete in the national competition.

They competed in Food Science in December and placed second in the state with no experience on the team, which is a great example of their hard work. The

team included Abigail Jett, Lauren Schelb, Christin Bozek and Charlotte Thiabault. Mayo said, “They don’t give you a book to study. There’s an entire curriculum with about 180 lessons.” The competition also included a food tasting and a smell test. In the smell test you have to know 4 aromas; cinnamon, hickory, molasses and smoke. Each portion of the taste test contains 3 items. Two items are the same and one is different, for example, two of the items could be Dr. Pepper and the third item could be its generic equivalent. It might also be 1 percent milk vs. 2 percent milk. Mayo believes they’ve even used Doritos and Oreos and their generics. There is also a portion of the competition where the competitors are given a scenario and several ingredients. They work together to develop a food item from the ingredients, a marketing campaign that includes a logo and the packaging with the nutritional label. They have less than 15 minutes and then they must sell their idea to the panel of judges.

In March, during the Sub-District contest, Ashton Houston competed in Public Speaking and placed second. Kelsey Bozeman did Extemporaneous Speech where the competitors pick three topics at random, and then select one to write a speech. They have 30 minutes to write their speech and then deliver it to the judges.

In the state competition, they won for Agricultural Issues. They wrote a proposal on a current issue affecting the area – the 11-day freeze in January. Houston, Allison Thomas, Morgan Boykin, Ashley

Modrow, Kelsey Bozeman and Christin Bozek performed a skit where each one played the roles of various legislators and agricultural people. Next, they will be competing in the National FFA competition in October. The competition will be held in Indianapolis. The trip will cost about $500 each, so they’re about to be working on some fundraising efforts. If you have some extra money to donate to the trip, please feel free to contact Mayo at Strawberry Crest High School. Congratulations to each of you. Keep up the hard work and best of luck at Nationals.

ag issue team with commissioner bronson. Photo courtesy of Susan Mayo

local » focus

written by: BriAn WEst

“they don’t give you a book to study. there’s an entire curriculum with about 180 lessons.”

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 25

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juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com26

another lost shaker of salt - found chamber’s margarita ball provides

another success

the 9th annual Margarita Ball, sponsored by the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, was held at

the home of Rick and Di Lott on May 15th. The ball is a fundraiser for the Chamber and helps to provide college scholarships to local high school graduates. The committee worked hard this year to keep the event fresh and help to integrate some new ideas, and everyone seems to agree the event was a success.

The Margarita Ball is a casual attire event, and the atmosphere of the Lott’s back yard pavilion provides a perfect setting. Guests were given tickets when they entered the ball. The tickets could be placed in your choice of several raffles for specific prize baskets, or used at the casino tables to gamble for more tickets to help increase the odds of winning the prize baskets. There were great prizes too; everything from multiple restaurant gift cards to a Saddlebrook package, to a getaway at the Tradewinds Resort.

Food was catered for the event. In past years, guests went through a service buffet under a tent away from the pavilion, and listened to a live band while they ate. This year, the food was a self-serve buffet, with the food placed strategically around the pavilion. Guests could choose from quesadillas, fish tacos, or even hamburgers and pulled pork, and the food was great. The band was also relocated to the south end of the pavilion, which gave everyone a chance to hear the music throughout the evening, which was a nice change from past years.

The single biggest change this year was the introduction of a Margarita Ball King and Queen. Nominations were submitted to the Chamber. The nominees then solicited for money from friends, colleagues and businesses. The nominees had to work hard though, because they only had about a week prior to the ball, and the evening of the ball, to raise money. The male and female with the most money at the end of the evening were crowned King and

Queen, respectively. It was all very good spirited, and each of the nominees seemed to have fun with it.

Anticipation grew through the evening, but when all was said and done, Billy Keel was crowned the 2010 Margarita Ball King and Candy Owen was crowned the 2010 Margarita Ball Queen. Everyone loved it, and the crowning was followed by a timely choice of song, Marvin Gaye’s classic, “Let’s get it on” as the backdrop to the first dance together for the new King and Queen. The Chamber had a successful event and those attending had a memorable evening. If you were there, tell everyone about it, and if you didn’t attend, plan to be there next year. Special thanks to the Lott’s for being so gracious to open their home once again to this great event.

guests enJoy casino night at the event. Photo courtesy of the Plant City Chamber of Commerce

margarita ball king billy keel and Queen candy owens Photo courtesy of the Plant City Chamber of Commerce

local » focus

written by: BriAn WEst

“the ball is a fundraiser for the chamber and helps to

provide college scholarships to local high school

graduates.”

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 27

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juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com28

senior connection presents new fun fest &

Jamboree

local » focus

written by: rAvEn lEvErEtt

Eddy rivErs performed at New Fun Fest and Jamboree. Photo by Raven Leverett

At thE nEW Fun FEst And JAMBorEE, senior citizens were able to receive free bone density screenings. Photo by Raven Leverett

“fritzy is the star of the show; he is at all the events.”

Entertainment, bingo, and free medical check ups were found on the Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds in

Plant City on June 30, 2010. Fun Fest and Jamboree is hosted by Senior Connection once a month. But some may be wondering, why is it called the “New” Fun

Fest and Jamboree? “This is the first time Fun Fest and Jamboree has taken place in the area of Plant City,” said Kathy Beck, from Senior Connection Magazine.

From the time the doors opened at 9:00 am until they closed at 2:00 pm, senior citizens were receiving health screenings

for Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure from JSA Medical, banana nut bread from Bob Evans, opportunities from The Tampa Tribune to receive daily newspapers for seventy-five cents a week, information from Walgreens that they have a care clinic in their stores, citizens like Linda Guincho received a Bone Density Screening from Health Screening Services, and so much more.

Along with all the excitement with the activities there were many chances for people to win prizes. Senior Connection Magazine did drawings for prizes as small as a book or a Perkins pie to as large as tickets to Sea World and Busch Gardens. Not only did Senior Connection Magazine offer chances to win prizes, so did the exhibitors. American Travel Partners offered a raffle for $1,000, a trip

for two to Hawaii, and a cruise for two. Also, Ameriprise Financial had fun give aways of a dinner and a movie. The list of prizes that were won could go on and on.

Not only were the people impressed with the exhibits and prizes, the entertainment will remain a memorable part of the event. There were appearances from Richie Merritt, Denise Looney, Katie Lombardo, and the country singer Eddy Rivers. Even a few exhibitors participated in the entertainment, like the Bay Area Twirlers Square Dance Club. According to Chuck Bingham, “Fritzy is the star of the show; he is at all the events.”

Plant City no doubt accepted their first opportunity to be involved in the Senior Connection’s Fun Fest and Jamboree, and hopefully it will not be the last.

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juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com30

sunset heiGhts learning for life

When faith inspires a community, the future brightens. Because one church congregation’s faith

partnered with one school district’s creative approach, the Sunset Heights Worship and Ministry Center is celebrating its first year of providing educational and social assistance to the eastern Hillsborough County community.

This story is big, but its beginnings were humble. Trinity United Methodist Church held its first service at Wilson Elementary School in 1947. Pastor Gary Brady arrived in 2000 and helped the congregation rekindle a relationship to assist Wilson’s students, their families, and teachers through provisions such as school supplies, backpacks, food, clothing, tutoring, an annual “Welcome Back, Teachers” luncheon, and word-of-the-month “Character Chats” at the school by Brady.

In 2007, the pastor’s denomination asked him to assess the once thriving Sunset Heights United Methodist Church, whose attendance had dwindled as the neighborhood transitioned.

Brady shared the blueprint he believed God has given him to utilize the facilities for the public’s benefit with TUMC member Janelle Wade, a retired General Director of Secondary Education for Hillsborough County Public Schools. Wade had recently felt compelled to return to her home church. Now she understands why.

When she saw the property, she caught the vision and met with Barbara Franques, the HCPS Area 6 Director now retired, to explain the group’s dream of serving its neighbors. General Equivalency Diploma completion and English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes seemed the perfect fit, and HCPS officials agreed.

At the same time, TUMC worship leader and retired Army music director Sid

Fortner, suggested the SHUMC sanctuary could be used for music lessons.

Brady presented his dream to Trinity members and on June 2, 2009, the Sunset Heights Worship and Ministry Center opened with a standing-room-only crowd at the ribbon cutting ceremony.

Weekdays, the New Haven of Hope is open to adults for GED classes with HCPS teacher Darla Maraman, who Wade describes as “phenomenal.” In June, 2010, Maraman watched with pride as 24 of 40 who completed the state test graduated with more than 600 from the HCPS Adult Education Program. Rosemary Cossuto teaches the free twice-weekly evening ESOL classes in a portable on the property.

The teachers use encouragement and individualized instruction strategies with students who are at varied learning stages. Maraman’s passion shows in her words: “I love my job because I’m helping motivated learners have a second chance to earn their diplomas.”

The church components at The Ministry Center include the Health and Wholeness Center, directed by TUMC’s Faith Community Nurse, Barbara Barden, R.N., a Community Service Program, a Music School Scholarship Program and a yearly Festival of Joy.

Trinity members Suzanne Price, a retired NYC private school principal, and local business owner Karen Bornstine are volunteer Site Coordinators. They share invaluable time M-F, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. to open the Sunset Heights Center, raise the flag, greet the public, provide information, handle office duties, serve as liaisons between church programs, teachers and students, and supervise the Community Service Program participants.

Pastor Brady especially appreciates the commitment of HCPS. In fact, this effort, which can be replicated, is the topic for Brady’s doctoral thesis, now in process. He credits Wade, the program’s director, for organizing the practical applications, saying, “It ‘s clear to me why God brought Janelle back to TUMC at this time. With her school administrative experience and passion for education in general, she has inspired our congregation to embrace and support the students.”

Brady’s wonderful team is also excited that Sunset Heights is once again filled with music. With Fortner’s expertise, children, teens, and adults taking lessons just might be among the next great Plant City musicians. Professional instructors teach classes in 12 instruments for a nominal fee.

SHWMC welcomes everyone to its 2nd Annual Festival of Joy on September 25, 2010, at the 416 Walter Drive campus. Come to enjoy a great example of creative collaboration between a church focused on its purpose and a school system open to creative outreach.

For information, phone 813-754-2441 or 813-752-9316, and visit www.pctumc.org.

trinity united methodist staff members (L-R): Sid Fortner, Music Director; Janelle Wade, Sunset Heights Program Director; Pastor Gary Brady - three of the team that coordinate educational and volunteer operations at the center.

Photo by Cheryl Johnston

local » focus

written by: ChEryl Johnston

“it ‘s clear to me why god brought Janelle back to tumc at this time. with her school administrative experience

and passion for education in general, she has inspired our congregation to embrace and support the students”

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 31

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juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com32

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 33

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purvis & elsa hamm’s 74th anniversary

on June 30, 2010, Purvis and Elsa Ham celebrated their 74th anniversary, both being 95 years

young, they have had a noteworthy marriage.

Starting with how they were married, which is a story Norma Gayle Ham, the daughter-in-law, remembers very well. Purvis Ham was at the time a cook for the CCC, and Elsa Andrews during the time took care of the Judges children, because the Judges wife died in child birth. Purvis and Elsa had plans of the Judge marrying them and on the night of June 30, 1936 at eleven’o’clock they were married. Even though some were upset about not seeing the wedding, love could not wait a moment longer. To Gayle the story of how they were married was most indelible.

Their marriage just prospered from there. Purvis and Elsa ended up having three beautiful children: two boys and one girl.

Even for their age Purvis and Elsa still lives life to the upmost degree. They go

to church on Sunday mornings, doctor appointments, grocery shopping, and when Purvis has time he travels to Pensacola, Florida to visit his 99 year old sister. Along with their busy schedule, Purvis still follows his passion of tending to plants. He tends to citrus trees, flowers, small vegetable garden, and he assists his grandson Lance Ham who grows strawberries, tomatoes, cucumbers, and sweet onions. Along with the extensive gardening he tends to the church yards and sidewalks. Then along with everything else, the doting couple both assist each other in the kitchen like he did at one time in the CCC.

For their 74th anniversary, the two sons and their wives had lunch at Purvis and Elsa’s house. Along with this dinner there was an anniversary cake. Their 74th anniversary could not be any better than sharing it with loved ones, it is like the icing on the cake for a beguiling moment.

Happy Anniversary!

elsa & purvis hammPhoto by Norma Gayle Hamm

local » focus

written by: rAvEn lEvErEtt

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juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com34

plant city photo archives & history center plant city, antioch, and the

antioch grappler

the Plant City area is a rural community where men have tested their strength and skills throughout

its history. There are stories about the vacant lot on South Drane Street, just west of Collins Street, where “prize fights” were regular events. And of the carnival-like fisticuffs and side-shows held on the vacant land between North Collins Street and Evers Street, land owned by Mrs. Palestine Wright. And, of course, there was the Seffner Boxing Club in the 1940s.

But this is about a man from the rural

Antioch community who was later known as the Antioch Grappler – an All Pro Wrestling Champion.

Antioch is a small community in East Hillsborough County centered on the intersection of McIntosh Road and Thonotosassa Road. It is basically rural and agricultural.

About the earliest pioneer in Antioch was Selby Franklin, who homesteaded 40 acres in February 1957. John F. Davis moved his family continually southward from Georgia, and his twin sons, William

Clint Davis, known as Clint, and Marshall Melton Davis, known as Met, who were born June 19, 1855, settled in Antioch in the 1870s.

Clint Davis married Sarah Pollock, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Pollock, of Thonotosassa, in 1873, and Met married Sula Miley, daughter of the widow Emmaline Miley, in 1875. At some point they began having community picnics to celebrate their birthday, and those celebrations have continued to be enjoyed by Thonotosassa/Antioch residents to present times.

John Kersey settled in Antioch in 1883, Joseph Rodgers in 1884, and George Franklin homesteaded 80 acres in 1885. Jerry Simpson, also an early pioneer, donated land for the Antioch Baptist Church and for the Antioch Church of Christ – and for the adjacent Antioch Cemetery in or about 1884. More settlers followed, including the Calhoun family.

Also, about 1877, the community constructed a one-room schoolhouse on McIntosh Road just north of Thonotosassa Road. By 1890 there were 25 families, over 250 people, living in Antioch. In 1892 Daniel M. Breaker opened a post office. In 1918, with a growing community, Elijah Graves opened a general store at the corner of McIntosh Road and Knights-Griffin Road, which operated for many years after. Elijah Graves, however, did not. He died in 1923; he was the last postmaster of Antioch. The mail came from Plant City from then on. And by 1930 the population had grown to 689.

In 1931 Elijah Graves’s daughter, Edna Simmons, opened a general store at McIntosh and Thonotosassa. It grew and she added a feed store, a recreation hall, service station, and a restaurant. The complex served the community until it was destroyed by fire in 1981.

The increasing young population was soon in need of a new school and in 1932 a two-room schoolhouse was built on McIntosh Road near the original. It was a “Strawberry School” and continued until the 1950s when it was closed. The building was sold and was later converted into a nursing home.

It was this pioneer-oriented agricultural self-reliant community that Glenn Calhoun was born into in 1953. As with most farm families, Glenn started working young, first at home, then in the community for pay. He did everything, whatever it took, in the fields, working with the chickens, doing maintenance, whatever it took.

Calhoun wrestled at Plant City High School in the early 1970s, and worked for Winn-Dixie through the DCT program. After graduation he got a job in the mines; he worked there for the next 33 years, working changing shifts and under different management – whatever it took.

antioch grappler and buddy blake tag team champions 1981. Photo courtesy of he Plant City Photo Archives & History Center

local » did you know

submitted by: gil gott

continued on page 35

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 35

Through a friend, Calhoun met a man named the “Great Malenko”, a professional wrestler and promoter, who also ran a wrestling school and trained wrestlers in Tampa and also in a gym at 60 and 39 in Plant City. Malenko asked if Glenn would like to attend his school of professional wrestling, and if he would like to join his group.

Malenko had an organization that presented matches in a number of cities in Florida, Georgia, and elsewhere. He was also one of the most hated wrestlers on the circuit. That was his stage persona – out of the ring, everyone liked him. He was soft-spoken, but a hard driver, and he knew the holds, moves, tricks, how to fall – he took care of his group. Glenn Calhoun joined the group.

Glenn Calhoun also learned that this was “Show Biz!” The producers and promoters decide who is going to win, with what hold, how and when, and more. This is all done before or in the locker/dressing room. The referees, time keeper, announcers, and staff members – everyone is in on it. The main thing, however, is to give the fans a show. It’s show biz.

Calhoun was told he had to lose his first few matches; he had to work into it and get established. He became the Antioch Grappler. He donned a mask and long trunks. He learned the moves, the holds, the tricks, but he also learned that wrestling is real. You get pounded and flipped and thrown hard to the mat. And that’s just in the ring. The fans can get rowdy. The Great Malenko had a 60 stitch scar from an angry spectator who hit him with a chair.

And after the night or the weekend is over, bruised or not, this doesn’t pay much so you go back to the mines.

The Antioch Grappler began to learn the ropes. He learned to work the crowds. The format was this: a “baby-face” versus the “heel”; the crowd cheers as the baby-face shows his skills, then the heel uses his nastiness and his dirty tricks, as the crowd gets worked up; the baby-face makes a comeback and the crowd cheers; the heel uses his dirty tricks to again subdue the baby-face – almost into submission – and then the baby-face finds great strength and energy and marvelous tactics and finally

overcomes the heel – to the roars and cheers of the crowd, as the heel runs for the exit pursued by the mob.

Glenn Calhoun was both. The Antioch Grappler was one of the most liked wrestlers on their circuit, but sometimes Glenn would have to be the heel and go into the dressing room, change outfits and masks, and emerge to the shouts directed at the hated villain, the Hooded Hurricane, or whatever name he chose that night.

He also learned about how to bleed by taping a small piece of razorblade to his finger and carefully cutting himself at certain choice moments – the crowd would go wild!

In the early 1980s he teamed up with Buddy Blake, a 6’6” young man who was on the rise, and together they became a popular draw on the circuit. They won the All Pro Wrestling Alliance Tag Team Championship and proudly defended their belts for several years.

In the 1980s the Antioch Grappler wrestled in many venues including the Cow Palace in Georgia, various cities in Alabama, the Tampa Armory, Lakeland Armory, Mulberry Civic Center, in Brandon and Seffner, the Antioch Community Park, where they raised funds for the Antioch Little League, and they held an all-day set of matches at a mall to raise money for the Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Telethon. But their favorite place was the Plant City Armory. It was a great facility and the crowds were wonderful.

The All Pro Wrestling Alliance had WPLA Radio coverage in Plant City, with announcers such as Gordon Solie. They had special lighting effects, strobe lights, smoke machines, colorful outfits and assistants, and their own introduction and entry music. This was show biz at its best, and the crowd was the best. The Plant City fans loved their wrestling and emotions always ran high. When the Antioch Grappler and Buddy Blake won their tag team championship their fans poured into the ring chanting and cheering – it was great!

In the 1980s the Antioch Grappler was rated #3 on two lists in the Official Wrestling magazine. Then, too, came the injuries. From one injury he couldn’t move his arm for a full week. And then the serious leg injury sent him to the

hospital. Glenn Calhoun spent months in a wheelchair recovering and months after that getting back into shape.

After retiring from the ring in 1999, the Antioch Grappler remained active by managing a tag team. He also tried body building but refused to compete in shows because of the rampant use of steroids – anathema to someone from Antioch. Calhoun, the Antioch Grappler, retired from the mines (Mosaic) and resides in his beloved Antioch with his wife, Ursulla.

Plant City and Antioch can be proud of the grappler’s record in the ring, and of his moral leadership as a professional and as a citizen.

Sources: Plant City Photo Archives & History Center’s Oral History Project 2010; Glenn Calhoun; Community Connections, June 19, 1997; Hillsborough County Historic Resources Survey Report, October 1998; Dan Lurie’s Wrestling Training Illustrated, July 1984; Official Wrestling, September 1984; East Hillsborough Tribune, Oct. 17, 1981; The Courier, July 21, 1983; Plant City Photo Archives & History Center Photographic Collections.

local » did you know

“he learned the moves, the holds, the tricks, but he also learned that wrestling is real. you get pounded and flipped

and thrown hard to the mat. and that’s just in the ring.”

continued from page 34

glen calhoun Antioch Grappler circa 1983.Photo courtesy of he Plant City Photo Archives & History Center

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com36

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foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 37

crowninG achievementJaclyn raulerson is crowned the 2010 miss florida

Plant City’s own, Jaclyn Raulerson, was crowned Miss Florida 2010 at the Mahaffey Theatre in St. Petersburg

on Saturday evening, July 10. She is the 19 year old daughter of Mayor Dan Raulerson and his wife Shirley. Growing up, she

competed in swimming and actually did very well, but once you reach the higher levels of competitive swimming, you really have to devote all your time to it. She was invited by a friend to go to a pageant when she was 13. She ended up competing and really enjoyed the experience.

Raulerson is currently attending the University of Central Florida and is studying Broadcasting. Dan said, “She’s always liked to talk, so it fits her.” Now that she’s been crowned Miss Florida, she’ll take the year off from school so she

can fulfill all her responsibilities as Miss Florida.

The Miss Florida pageant is structured a little differently. There are pageants throughout the state that select winners to compete for the Miss Florida pageant, but there are only a few counties or cities that have boundary requirements for the contestants. All the other pageants are open to potential contestants from across the entire state of Florida. Since Miss Heart of Plant City didn’t hold a contest this year, local contestants had to find other venues to compete, so this is how Raulerson became Miss Largo which got her into the Miss Florida pageant.

Miss Florida has several components that span the week prior to Saturday evening; interview, swimsuit, evening gown and talent. Raulerson actually won the swimsuit competition on Wednesday, and felt like she did well in the other components. Dan said, “We hoped she’d get into the top 10 since she won the swimsuit competition, but we we’re really excited when she was crowned. I don’t remember about the next 3 minutes after that.”

Raulerson was a Court Member of the 2008 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Court, and at 5’11” this blond really stands out in a crowd. An interesting fact about the Miss Florida pageant; this year was the 75th anniversary of the Miss Florida pageant, and the first Miss Florida pageant was won by a Plant City resident, Elizabeth Hull in 1935. She went on to be a semi-finalist in the Miss America competition.

As Miss Florida, Raulerson won several thousand dollars in scholarships and her wardrobe will be paid for during her reign. She will travel for the next several months speaking as Miss Florida. The pageant is very involved with the Children’s Miracle Network, so there should be a few engagements with them through the year. Then she’ll compete in the Miss America pageant on January 15, 2011. The competition will be televised live on ABC from Las Vegas, Nevada. Raulerson said, “I’m just very honored to have the opportunity to represent our area, and I’m really looking forward to the experience. This has been a life long dream for me.” We’re very proud of you and we know you’ll represent us well throughout the next year. Congratulations, and best of luck.

Jaclyn raulerson crowned miss florida.

local » focus

written by: BriAn WEst

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com38

Greater plant city chamber of commerce

how many times has your club or organization planned an event only to find out days before that other

events have been planned for that same day or evening? Since many residents as well as individuals from outside this area call the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce to find out what events are scheduled, the Chamber maintains a COMMUNITY CALENDAR OF EVENTS. By having events registered at one central location, an individual may check with the Chamber BEFORE scheduling a meeting, seminar, luncheon, open house, etc. to avoid competing for the same patrons. Keeping this calendar up to date is a big undertaking and the Chamber staff does not mind doing this, however, the calendar will only be as good as your organization helps make it.

Considering the vast number of meetings and various events that are scheduled throughout the year, everyone’s cooperation is vital to ensuring the calendar’s accuracy. Once your event is registered, please update us with any changes, for example, date, time, and location, and the Chamber staff will make these corrections promptly.

To list your club or organization’s meetings and/or other events, simply send all pertinent information via e-mail toinfo@plantcity.org fax it to 813-752-8793 or mail it to Community Calendar, Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box CC, Plant City, FL 33564. Your event information should include the following:

Name of EventDate and timeLocationSponsoring OrganizationDescriptionContact name and telephone number for further information

Should you have any questions about this project or for more information, please call the Chamber office at 813-754-3707.

Speaking of events and planning ahead, here is a date for NEXT YEAR that you can put on your personal calendar: APRIL 23, 2011. That is the date of the Greater

Plant City Chamber of Commerce PLANES, TRAINS & AUTOMOBILES event which will take place from 10 AM to 3 PM at the Plant City Airport, 4007 Airport Road. There will be planes, model trains, classic automobiles, police and fire department demonstrations, fly overs, live local bands, vendors, kids play area, etc., etc.

There are sponsorship opportunities available. Call the Chamber office 813-754-3707 if you are interested in becoming a sponsor. This will be a great event.

Don’t miss the STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CAR SHOW taking place in downtown Plant City on Saturday, July 17 th. Look over the classic automobiles and enjoy some great family fun.

The Plant City Tennis Center is offering several programs for the summer for both youth and adults.

The Plant City Skate Park will be open all summer. The facility is located inside Mike Sansone Park and will be staffed seven days a week from noon to 9 PM. Users must have a valid city-issued Skate Park photo ID and have a signed release waiver on file. A 12 month pass is only $25. per person and allows unlimited use when the skate park is open.

ID card and paper work are available at the Recreation & Parks administration office, 1904 South Park Road. If you would like additional information, call Chris Washburn at 813-659-4256.

The Annual Youth Fishing Derby is scheduled for Saturday, July 24 th. for youths ages 5-15. This is the 14 th. year of offering fishing derbies. This free event allows area youth to fish in a pond behind the Randy Larson Softball Four-Plex off Gordon Food Service Drive (formerly Albertson Drive) and compete for various awards. Pre-Registration is available through July 21 at the Rec & Parks office. Registration will also be available on site from 7 to 8 AM on the day of the event.

It’s time for sign up for the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce

LEADERSHIP PROGRAM. The goal of this great tuition-based program is to prepare current and future leaders of the Plant City area for decisions that must be made as our city grows and develops.

For class members to better understand the elements that comprise our community, Leadership sessions take place at various business and city locations throughout our community.

The program is under the direction of the Chamber Board and is managed by Leadership Class Alumni and coordinated by Chamber President, Marion Smith and her staff.

If you are an employer that would like to have key employees participate in this program, call the Chamber office at 813-754-3707 for additional information.

On July 22 nd., at 7 PM the Bruton Memorial Library, will host noted author Tim Dorsey. He will share some pretty wild stories. You will not want to miss this!

Also at the Library on July 29 th. at 10:30 AM, magician Cesar Domico will present a great program for kids. And at 2:30 on this same date, the feature film “Ponyo” will be shown.

Congratulations to the following businesses that recently renewed their Chamber memberships between February 1 and March 31, 2010:

Tampa Electric……63 years Maryland Fried Chicken……38 years

Cole Properties… 49 years Community Care Center……31 years

Cross Pest Control .38 years Badcock Home Furniture…..28 years

REMEMBER TO SUPPORT YOUR GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERS LOOK FOR THE SIGN IN THEIR PLACE OF BUSINESS“MEMBER GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE”

local » chamber of commerce

submitted by: BruCE rodWEll

chamber ribbon cuttings

June 3rd Ribbon Cutting for:Allstate Insurance CompanyMark Cornett, Agency Owner

(813) 754-2277 1701 South Alexander Street, Suite 104

a057460@allstate.com

June 15th Ribbon Cutting for:O’Neal & Sons Upholstery

James & Jason O’Neal, Owners(813) 752-0405

2303 James L. Redman Pkwy., Suite Gonealandsons@verizon.net

www.onealandsons.net

June 22nd Ribbon Cutting for:Sprint by Americom

Craig Thomas, Store Manager(813) 754-7799

2126 James L. Redman Parkwaywww.buyamericom.com

June 23rd Ribbon Cutting for:Fortis Institute

Diana Simmons, School Director5925 Imperial Parkway, Suite 200

Mulberry, FL 33860-8689dsimmons@edaff.com

www.fortis.edu

June 10th Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening for:

Anytime FitnessRichard & Se’a Ryan

(813) 567-1057 • 2402 James L. Redman Parkwayplantcityfl@anytimefitness.com

www.anytimefitness.com

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 39

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juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com40

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B a p t i s t H o s p i t a l South Florida

Continues to Provide needed serviCesNew Evelyn and Batista Madonia, Sr. Heart and Vascular Center to open in August

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 41

B a p t i s t H o s p i t a l South Florida

Continues to Provide needed serviCesNew Evelyn and Batista Madonia, Sr. Heart and Vascular Center to open in August

south Florida Baptist Hospital (SFBH) has been a vital part of our community since 1953. When

new technologies, treatments and even methods of service have developed, the hospital has worked hard to bring these to us, to our hospital. I recently spoke with several members on the staff at SFBH; Steve Nierman, Chief Operations Officer, Dr. Robert Baskin, Chief of Medical Staff, Judy Martin, Executive Director of the Foundation, Jim LeHeup, Manager of Plant Operations, Teresa Colletti, Manager of Critical Care, Debi Brightwell, Manager of Imaging Services, and Karen Kerr, Director of Patient Services. I also spoke with Evelyn Madonia. Evelyn and Batista Madonia are the Signature Sponsors for the new Center, and they’re thankful for the opportunity to be involved in the effort.

Focus: Tell me why Plant City needs a Heart and Vascular Center.

Nierman: Cardiovascular disease kills more Americans than any other disease, and it’s the same for men and women. Until recently, a community hospital could

not operate this type of minimally invasive intervention for stents and angioplasty unless you had a full blown cardiac surgery and open heart program. Within the past few years, the state of Florida opened up this restriction and created criteria similar to other states for community hospitals to do these types of minimally invasive procedures. Everybody in Plant City that needs to be diagnosed with the gold standard which is diagnostic heart catheritization or coronary angiography has to go somewhere else because it’s not offered here at the hospital. The last year that was reported by the state, 842 went somewhere else – from Plant City. The concerning part is that a number of those were suffering a heart attack. It wasn’t just an elective event where you schedule yourself for a diagnostic test, you had to travel [to another location] to have blood flow restored to your heart. With cardiovascular disease, half the people who have a heart attack die. For those that don’t, time is of the essence. The quicker you restore the blood flow to the heart, the less muscle and tissue damage you have and your quality of life will improve. So by having this service available right

here in Plant City where we know people are having heart attacks and needing the service, we’ll be able to open those arteries quicker and save lives.

Focus: How soon can you begin treating patients?

Nierman: We have a process that we go through with the state. Initially, on October 1, 2010, the state will license us as a diagnostic facility. We will be able to put the catheter in the heart, take pictures and diagnose vascular disease and identify the blockage. Once we’re able to demonstrate that we’re busy enough to have an established program – which is 300 patients in a year, then we’ll apply for a license with the state to do the intervention. So then, once we diagnose an issue, we can follow up with the stent or angioplasty procedure. And those 300 patients don’t have to be from within Plant City, they just have to come through our doors. But the sooner we hit that number, the sooner we’ll be on our way to offering the true life saving care, and not just diagnosing, actually treating the patient.

Focus: Do you have the physicians in place already?

Nierman: We didn’t have them in place, but we had to have a plan for who was going to work here before we could get the funding for the center. These physicians are wonderful. They accompanied me to Baycare to testify to their commitment to SFBH and that they would be here for the new center to operate and make it successful. They are Dr. Ghazanfar Khadim, Interventional Cardiologist, Dr. Moethu Win, Interventional Cardiologist and Dr. Aung Tun, Cardiologist. Without them, we would have never gotten approval. They’ve established office hours in Plant City and they’ve been here every day.Baskin: I was fortunate enough to meet the new doctors early on and they’ve all had a lot of experience, not only in America, but also in other countries. We’re fortunate to have them. They’re all very pleasant and easy to work with. When I got here 30 years ago, we were fighting an image of a band-aid station. Now we have the latest technology and can do it as

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com42

Spotlight interview » evelyn and BatiSta Madonia, Sr.

“a few members of our family had successful surgeries at the hospital many years ago. Because of those, we contacted Judy Martin – and this has probably been 15

years ago, and told her we’d like to make a donation. that’s really how it all started. From that time on, we let her know that we wanted to help with their fundraisers, because we believed in what they were doing, and had experienced it

first hand. ”

well as anyone in the area. And I think a lot of people come to SFBH just for the atmosphere.

Focus: Can you tell me about the need for the vascular portion of the new center?

Nierman: This is really about imaging technology to assist the specially trained physicians that can address blood flow issues. This can pertain to the heart and any other peripheral arteries. Peripheral arterial disease is the same type of blockage found in the heart, but in your legs, your kidneys or other extremities. So we’re brining the technology to perform stents and angioplasty for the coronary arteries, to these specially trained doctors; vascular surgeons, interventional cardiologist and interventional radiologist to do similar types of procedures for these additional types of blockages as well. This service is not a licensure issue, so we’ll be able to provide it from day one. This will improve quality of life for a lot of people

because peripheral arterial disease is lack of blood flow, and as the diabetic population increases, you see a lot of this. We’ll also have state of the art equipment and procedure rooms for surgeons to do vascular procedures that we’ve not done so much of here before.

Focus: Can you tell me what the new center will mean to you and the other physicians?

Baskin: Sure, just two days ago I had a 44 year old gentleman come in that was having chest pain and had previously had a stress test. He needed a heart catheritization, so I had to send him out of town. I thought to myself, ‘If we had the new center open, we’d be going to SFBH. I would’ve kept him as a patient. I had a

female patient the same day that needed a heart catheritization that was about the same age as the gentleman I described. So we have a population in Plant City that is elderly and younger as well, that are having chest pains. You can’t take the risk and be wrong. You have to know if it’s cardiac or not. Rule out the worst things and take care of the other problems later. So for us it’ll mean that we can immediately assess what’s causing the chest pain and whether or not it’s cardiac.

Focus: Judy, Can you tell me about this project from your perspective with the Foundation.

Martin: The project in general is being funded by Baycare at $4.5M. The Foundation is raising money through naming opportunities and just outright gifts, to purchase equipment and unforeseen construction costs. We’re only going to complete one of the catheritization labs right now. We’ll

finish out the second catheritization lab later. There are always things that come up that weren’t planned for during construction, so the Foundation will cover those expenses too. When we worked on the new emergency room, there were 63 naming opportunities. There are only 12 naming opportunities available for this project. Mike Sparkman headed up the campaign for the ER, and he’s helping me with this project. The Madonia’s wanted to give at the Leadership level for this project. They’ve been very generous since we started the Foundation. To determine what we have to work with for naming opportunities, I look at the blueprints. Obviously, the larger the room and the more public exposure it has, the higher the value. Many donors take advantage

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 43

evelyn and Batista Madonia, sr. Photo By: suzanne gallagher

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com44

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Spotlight interview » evelyn and BatiSta Madonia, Sr.

SFBH is among the top rated hospitals in the area for patient satifaction and nursing care. While we were talking, they shared a story about a patient who came to the hospital but had to be transferred to another location for additional treatment. As soon as the patient was released, he bought flowers and drove directly back to SFBH to deliver them stating, “I don’t want to go anywhere else. I was here on your table for 6 hours and everyone treated me with dignity and respect. I want you to treat me here.” It’s a much more common request, and who wants to go from one hospital to another to be cared for. We’re all very fortunate to have SFBH as a part of our community.

of our three year pledge plans as it works out better for them with their taxes. Some have given us CDs each year, some have done Charitable Remainder Annuity Trusts and others have just written a check. [Laughing] And when I get a single check of $5000 or above, everyone on the floor knows I’ve gotten a big check because they hear me holler. I think it’s important to note that when Plant City area people talk about the hospital they usually refer to it as “our” hospital. You don’t find that in other areas. The people of Plant City and the surrounding areas have been very generous to the hospital and we appreciate it. For those that are interested in contributing, there are still other naming opportunities available in the new center. Our hospital team and the community certainly appreciate the Signature gift that the Madonias have graciously donated to this project.

Focus: Tell me a little about how the new center will look and feel once it’s completed.

LeHeup: Because of the location with this project, it’s really our front door. We put another project in with this one when we did the bidding, which gave us some savings. So we used those dollars to brick the exterior of the east stairwell casing to tie the building together [with the existing structure]. We used the same brick on the ER, so we’re kind of working it around the corner. We’ve cleared some trees. We have a pergola that will go out very close to the road with some up-lighting with the new sign. I’ve had people drive by and not recognize that it was the hospital. It’s really an opportunity for us to have that ‘wow’ effect as you drive by. Our architect, Curtis Haynes with Haynes Architecture, has done a wonderful job with some nice features on the front that will catch the eye that will give it some curb appeal. Brightwell: We’ve tried to do this very

family focused. We have a special waiting room that is special for the Heart and Vascular Center. Typically speaking, a cardiac patient will have more family members with them for that procedure, compared to others. So we have a waiting room specifically for the family. We have a consult room for the physicians to talk privately with the family instead of in the waiting room or over the phone. And there is some convenience for them off of the waiting room with vending machines and restrooms so they don’t have to stray to the other side of the hospital.

Focus: What will the new center mean most to you?

Colletti: Earlier, Steve talked about not wanting to transfer patients. We’ve found that our patients don’t want to go. One of the reasons we’ve had such a push to get the new Heart and Vascular center built is that our patients want to stay here. The care here is excellent. To give them what they need in this environment is wonderful. Now I won’t have to say, ‘Ship.’ to send them to another hospital.

Focus: How did you become involved in giving to the hospital?

Madonia: A few members of our family had successful surgeries at the hospital many years ago. Because of those, we contacted Judy Martin – and this has probably been 15 years ago, and told her we’d like to make a donation. That’s really how it all started. From that time on, we let her know that we wanted to help with their fundraisers, because we believed in what they were doing, and had experienced it first hand. We just wanted to do what we could to help. So we began supporting their fundraisers; Diamonds and Denim, the Fall Fancy and Lights of Love.

Focus: You’ve had a long giving relationship with the hospital, and your family has experienced their own medical needs at the hospital. The naming opportunity must be special for you and your family.

Madonia: We were told about the effort to build a new Heart and Vascular Center, and were asked if we’d be interested in helping. We thought that this was such a worthwhile effort, that we decided to donate at the Signature Sponsor level, because of our belief in what the hospital is doing, and because we want to give something back to the community of Plant City.

Focus: What will it mean to you and your family to have the new center here at our hospital; in our community?

Madonia: Well, it’ll mean that we’ll be able to be treated here at SFBH, without having to wait to be transported to another hospital. Steve has already shared that cardiovascular disease is the number one killer in America today. If the hospital

has the capability to restore blood flow to the heart and open coronary arteries with balloon angioplasty and stent placement, then it will save innumerable lives. We just couldn’t think of any better way at this time to help the hospital. They have the new emergency center and the surgery center, and members of our family have been treated at both of these at one time or another and received very good care. The new Heart and Vascular Center will be a nice compliment to the work they’re already doing. The hospital has a wonderful board of directors who are always looking for new ways to improve the care they provide. We are just very pleased and happy that we are able to help, and because there are so many people in Plant City that are willingly and unselfishly contributing their time, skills, and finances to help make this happen, we want to do our part. The Physicians, Board of Directors, and the Foundation of SFBH continue to work tirelessly to continue to make improvements and to bring the latest and most advanced technology to the hospital.

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 45

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juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com46

Heroes With Halo’sCommunity FundraiserIn Honor of:Officer Jeffrey Kocab & Officer David Curtis

Hosted By: The Artist In You, A Paint Your Own Pottery Studio &Sassy Planning , Wedding & Event Planning

August 28, 201011 AM - 6 PM

Plant City Stadium1810 East Park Road

All proceeds to benefit the Kocab and Curtis families

Live BandsFoodCraft VendorsLocal BusinessesKids Bounce Houses

Vendor Space Available

For more information on the event or how you can help please contact Anissa Hunt, The Artist In You 813-704-5957 Sheryl Vitelli, Sassy Planning 813-918-1612

For vendor information please see below.

Vendor RegistrationName:Business:Business Type:Address:City: Zip:Telephone: Email:

Please call, email or mail your registration. Registration and payment information must be recieved by August 14, 2010. Vendor fees are non-refundable. For questions or registration please contact: Sheryl Vitelli, Sassy Planning 1009 N Merrin Street, Plant City Florida 33563, sassyplanning @yahoo.com or 813-918-1612.

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 47

BUSINESS FOCUSShowcaSing our neighBorhood BuSineSSeS

This is a paid advertising section

Brownlee citruS48crawFord hill50

credit union reMarketing52Marco’S pizza54

the parriSh law FirM, p.a.

58the red roSe

inn and SuiteS60

Take a tour of these businesses on FocusTV Episode 89at myfocustv.com

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com48

OwNErS PErSONal FErtIlIzEr MIxES generate optiMal crop and lawn growth

great customer service is a top business priority for Brownlee Citrus owners Ray and Patti Brownlee. According

to the Brownlee’s, “we create a customer atmosphere like it used to be, where we know the names of all our clients and can help them select products to meet their individual needs.”

Brownlee Citrus, located at 1705

Sammonds Road (less than a mile off Alexander Street) is a privately owned company and has been in business for 30 years. Ray is a third generation Brownlee who continues to be a leader in the citrus industry. Patti also has strong roots in the Plant City community. Her grandfather and father had a drugstore downtown called Barwicks. The Brownlee’s feel that their rich tradition of family roots enable them to have a better understanding

of the historical and changing needs of growers in our community and beyond. The Brownlee’s daughter, Rebecca Guthrie is also involved in running this successful family business.

Brownlee Citrus supports planting, growing and harvesting efforts of local growers through products that include seeds, vegetable plants, insecticides and fertilizers. In addition to being in tune

with the needs of the farmers, Ray is also an innovator in creating special mix fertilizers which help to promote optimal crop growth and sustainability.Brownlee Citrus will launch a new venture in the fall as a result of the recent closing of the Gro Mor Co. Inc. The City bought the Gro Mor Co. property in an effort to promote the redevelopment of the midtown area in Plant City. When the company closed “there became a local need

BuSineSS FocuS » brownlee citrus • 1705 sammonds road, Plant city, 33563 • (813) 752-1818

patti and ray Brownlee and reBecca guthrie.

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 49

for someone to continue providing the service they had for many years,” according to Ray. The Brownlee’s will provide for that niche market.

The Brownlee’s have a very diverse customer base. Their customers include everyone from horseowners looking for quality grass seed to hunters who purchase seed to attract deer and turkeys, even home and business owners who need lawn seed and insecticides. They also sell fertilizer mixes that can be mixed specifically to benefit each customer’s lawn and garden needs. Some of their fertilizer selections include palm mix, blueberry mix, rose mix, azalea mix, vegetable mix, citrus mix and weed and feed mixes. In addition, they will be selling a rose fertilizer mix that was a Gro Mor Co Inc. special. For special mix requests, Patti invites customers to stop by the store to talk with the staff so that they be sure to stock the item.

In addition to selling products to help customers with farming and lawn needs, Brownlee Citrus also provides soil testing. Individuals simply take soil samples into the store and various tests are run to determine soil ph levels and growth potential for product placement.From the beginning of garden planning through cultivation, the Brownlee’s offer one stop shopping to meet the diverse needs of their customers. They feel this is especially critical during tough economic times when people are looking at creative and affordable means of having fresh vegetables and fruits. By listening to his customers in order to better understand their needs, Ray can help customers make good choices with the lowest overall pricing. To speak with Ray or Patti to create your personal crop/lawn profile and growth plan, visit Brownlee Citrus located at 1705 Sammonds Road, Plant City, 33563. They can also be reached by phone at (813) 752-1818.

BuSineSS FocuS » brownlee citrus • 1705 sammonds road, Plant city, 33563 • (813) 752-1818

“the Brownlee’s feel that their rich tradition of family roots enable them to have a better understanding of the historical and changing needs of growers in our

community and beyond.”

ray Brownlee MeaSuring SeedS For cuStoMer.

ray Brownlee and granddaughter, halie guthrie. hailie SpendS tiMe helping at Brownlee citruS.

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com50

CrawFOrd-HIll INtErIOrS, INC.Crawford-Hill Interiors has an

attitude, and it’s all about customer care. The company’s philosophy

is “Every customer deserves quality, excellence, and elegance in service and supply.”

Since 1987, Crawford-Hill has been crafting beautiful spaces throughout the state of Florida. Retha Crawford

established the company because she desired to use her talent for decorating to help friends who wanted to update or move to different homes. Many of those also had businesses and those spaces needed a fresh look or a redo.

Before long through recommendations, Retha had so many clients, she hired additional designers. Today, her daughter, design consultant Michelle Crawford-

Broxton, also assists with the daily operations.

Using your own design or their suggestions, the experts at Crawford-Hill will create spaces that are beautiful, functional, and uniquely your own. They can accomodate every budget from entry homes to very elaborate custom designs. Comfort is a key priority. Designers will visit your home or office to assess how the

space is used and learn about your personal style preferences, in order to customize the décor.

The show room was expanded in a new location at 1407 E. Baker Street. The showroom features samples for both residential and commercial clients. These include wallpaper, fabrics, blinds, cabinets and countertops. Available flooring options are vinyl, carpeting, area rugs, tile, laminate,

BuSineSS FocuS » crawford-hill interiors, inc. • 1407 e. baker st., Plant city, fl • (813) 754-6898 • www.crawford-hill.com

our ShowrooM haS unique pieceS oF Furniture, FroM laMpS, artwork and MiScellaneouS decor.

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 51

“We do custom interior design, kitchen and bathroom remod-eling, furniture and window treatments – accessories too. We cando just one room or an entire home. And we decorate commercialoffices too. When I started banking at Sunshine State about 20years ago, they took the time to learn about my business and mybanking needs. They handle my business and personal checking,investment accounts and loans too. If you want a banking partnerthat cares about your success, you can’t do better than Sunshine.You’ll feel like part of the family.”

If you’re a business owner who’s become lost in the “big-bankshuffle”, come talk to us. We have the services, the people andthe strategies to help you grow and succeed. Call or visit ouroffice nearest you today.

Plant City - Main Office, 102 W. Baker St., 752-6193Walden Woods, 2400 Redman Parkway, 754-1844

Brandon, 420 W. Brandon Blvd., 689-1271Riverview, 7459 Highway 301 S., 677-7102

Zephyrhills, 36450 Eiland Boulevard, 782-9593

“Banking on a First Name Basis”

“When I walk into Sunshine State,I never feel like just a customer.

I feel like part of the family.”

Retha CrawfordCrawford-Hill Interiors, Plant City

– Retha Crawford

wood flooring, bamboo, or cork. Custom window treatments, blinds, shutters, and upholstery are also specialties. Accessories and silk plants add the finishing touches.

Crawford-Hill has a large selection for people who like to do it themselves, or create for their customer the rooms of their dreams. This designer group also offers “room staging”. This basically meanstaking what you have and re-arranging it or taking an empty room and furnishing it for resale.

The design consultants are specialists in visual coordination for both residential and commercial spaces. Nothing enhances a home or business lobby more than the look and feel of space crafted by a professional. These talents can be scene not only in beautiful homes but across the state and in our own community projects such as The community Development Center, Strawberry Festival, Health Center of plant City, Local Financial Institutions (Sunshine State) and Industrial Services.

Impeccable taste and professionalism are synonymous with the name Crawford-Hill to many of their hundreds of clients. To update, start over, or begin from scratch, Crawford-Hill Interiors, Inc., can meet all yourneeds.

Free estimates are part of the service you desire and deserve. The complete interior design service simplifies the process so customers can spend more time enjoying their new space.

For 23 years, Crawford-Hill’s experience has spoken through their work and distinctive interiors.

Preview the services online at www.crawford-hill.com or visit the new showroom at 1407 E. Baker Street. Phone 813.754.6898 to schedule an appointment. Design studio hours are M-F, 9-5, and weekends by appointment only.

BuSineSS FocuS » crawford-hill interiors, inc. • 1407 e. baker st., Plant city, fl • (813) 754-6898 • www.crawford-hill.com

retha crawFordowner, crawFord hill interiorS, inc.

we are aBle to Supply low coSt MaterialS and ServiceS For entry hoMeS to BaSic reModelS.

large Selection oF inStock iteMS For people who like to do it theMSelveS.

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com52

CUrS - CrEdIt UNION rEMarkEtINg SOlUtIONS credit union and Bank repoS wholeSaled direct

to the puBlic

For the best buy on a vehicle, head to CURS - Credit Union Remarketing Solutions, Inc. This company’s unique

approach means purchasing and financing have never been easier or more affordable.

Meet co-owners Jerry Farmer and Jeff Mathews. Together they have more than 60 years combined experience in the auto industry. Their job is to make certain your deal is the best anywhere.

CURS offers a better way of locating your dream machine - so much so, that anyone

in the market should definitely shop first at 520 E. Brandon Boulevard, just west of Kingsway.

This “not your average car dealer” sells credit union and bank repossessions for wholesale prices directly to the public. Farmer puts it this way: “Credit unions get our service and customers benefit from the huge savings.

The corporation combines the invaluable skills and experiences of men who know the auto industry inside and out. Mathews owns a repo company, which helps banks

liquidate more than 400 cars a month. Farmer buys cars from individuals and dealers. Together, they opened CURS to remarket vehicles at fair values that allow banks and credit unions a reasonable return and save thousands for customers, too. Everybody wins with CURS.

The company will sell approximately 350 cars each month, which means customers never feel pressured. Folks can visit the sales center to view inventory or take advantage of the CURS auto locating service. Appointments are also available for simulcast buying from auction. With

assistance from Farmer and Mathews, buyers have access to 3,500 automobiles at any given time. CURS earns a flat fee and the car is delivered to their sales location for pickup by the customer. Specialty purchases are commonly requested also.

Additionally, the company markets motorcycles, motor homes, campers, four-wheelers, and boats. Mathews encourages customers to try CURS first: “We assist with any collateral value vehicle type. We must liquidate them, either wholesale or retail. Our customers gain the price advantage.”

BuSineSS FocuS » credit union remarketing • 520 e. brandon boulevard, brandon, fl • (813) 655-2877 • www.cursinc.com

ownerS oF curS JeFF MathewS and Jerry FarMer

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 53

With only 11 employees, low overhead costs mean the lowest prices. Farmer likes to remind shoppers, “CURS moves cars from someone else’s driveway to yours without the retail markup. We earn a set fee from the bank and pass the huge savings onto our clients.”

Mathews adds, “Because we have long-standing relationships with many, many financing sources, virtually anyone can purchase from CURS. From great credit to no credit, we keep the process simple.”

Although cars are definitely in their blood and occupy much of their time, both men enjoy family life and friendship roots that run deep in eastern Hillsborough County. Their reputations for fair and ethical business practices are well established here.

Jerry Farmer, who has lived in Plant City for 30 years, is dad to a UF Gator son, Jarrod, and a Strawberry Crest High School Charger son, Garrett. He stays in shape by competing in five triathlons a year, so he runs, bikes, and swims regularly. With family in the industry 42 years, Famer previously owned a

new car dealership and has been a local independent auto dealer for 27 years.

Jeff Mathews is a very busy father of four daughters. Randi and Amanda graduated recently with honors from USF. Corey, 5, and Taylor, 16, keep he and wife Sheris occupied with dance and school responsibilities. For fun when he’s not working, champion stock car driver Mathews competes on weekends in one of his seven racing vehicles.

The CURS co-owners want shoppers to know, “Bargains are here to be had and the economy is our friend right now. We do something no one else can. Compare this process to the “short-selling” of cars, similar to houses. We can help you find the right car at the absolute best price. Then, you pay it forward and tell your friends, so we can do the same for them.”

Make your best deal now! Phone (813) 655-2877, visit www.CURSinc.com or shop the sales center at 520 E. Brandon Boulevard (SR 60) weekdays M-F 10 -7 or Saturday 9-4.

BuSineSS FocuS » credit union remarketing • 520 e. brandon boulevard, brandon, fl • (813) 655-2877 • www.cursinc.com

“curS offers a better way of locating your dream machine - so much so, that anyone in the market should definitely shop

first at 520 e. brandon boulevard, just west of kingsway.” we can help you Find the right carat the right price.

curS iS located on the northSide oF brandon blvd (hwy60)

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com54

MarCO’S PIzza a FaMily aFFair

ah!Thentic Taste and the guaranteed best pizza anywhere,” boasts Jeff Scott, owner of the Plant City

Marco’s Pizza located on South Jim Redman Parkway next to Panera Bread. He attributes the pizza being so good to Marco’s strong commitment to three key ingredients: dough made fresh from scratch every day, a unique blend of three fresh cheeses and a sauce with an authentic homemade taste.

“Dough Management is a critical component to pizza being prepared the Marco’s Way,” according to Jeff. Marco’s makes dough the time-honored, traditional way, fresh from scratch every day in each store. By using only fresh dough customers enjoy a fresh, flavorful original classic or crispy thin crust topped with fresh quality ingredients like pepperoni, grilled chicken, mushrooms, Italian sausage, feta cheese, steak, ground beef, green olives, tomatoes, and more. Ingredients are generously piled on to

guarantee that every bite of Marco’s pizza will include all toppings.

Another key ingredient in a Marco’s pizza creation is cheese. Not just mozzarella cheese. Marco’s Pizza uses a blend of three fresh (never frozen) cheeses on every pizza. Marco’s boasts that their blend of cheeses is at the heart of their authentic, fresh taste that would make any Italian pizza maker proud.

Marco’s authentic pizza sauce is made from vine-ripened tomatoes packed just hours after picking. A secret combination of spices is then added right in the store. According to Marco’s, the taste is so

authentic it’s like sending your mouth to Italy.

Marco’s Pizza is locally owned and operated and uses only the freshest ingredients. Owner Jeff Scott believes in a hands on owner/operator approach to ensure a great quality product for customers. In addition, Jeff feels his business success is because of his family’s involvement. On a regular basis, Jeff ’s family is at the store to lend a hand in the day-to-day operations of their Marco’s store. His family includes wife, Maria and sons Andrew (18), Jonathan (17) and twins Luke and Ty (6). Jeff feels his family is a integral part of the business

BuSineSS FocuS » marco’s Pizza • 2909 James l. redman Parkway., Plant city, fl • (813) 759-6400 • marcos.com

Marco’S pizza iS FaMily owned and operated. pictured: JeFF Scott with wiFeMaria, Jonathan and twinS luke and ty.

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 55

and they spend time working together in the kitchen as well as greeting customers, taking orders and waiting tables.

Marco’s Pizza has a large menu sure to please everyone’s taste buds. Their specialty pizzas include White Cheezy, Deluxe Uno, Meat Supremo, Chicken Fresco and more. In addition, they offer fresh baked subs including the Italian, steak and cheese, ham and cheese, chicken club, and veggie. Marco’s chicken wings served classic Buffalo Style or tangy BBQ Style help round out the menu.

Marco’s has daily lunch specials that include a small drink and one topping pizza, Marco’s Italian salad with grilled chicken or any fresh baked sub. If you don’t have time to dine in, you can call ahead (813-759-6400) or order online

(marcos.com) for a pick up or delivery. Prices are very affordable and pizza prices start as low as $6.99 for a small cheese pizza. Marco’s Pizza is located at 2909 James L. Redman Parkway.

Marco’s Pizza is the fastest growing pizza company in the U.S. In addition, the company believes that each store owner/operator should be an integral part of their community. Jeff strongly supports this concept and is interested in partnering with local schools, charities, and civic organizations to help build successful fundraising efforts. Marco’s offers great pricing and according to Jeff “a great food product . . . the best food in town, really, we’ve got good food.” To sample Plant City’s most mouth watering pizza made with only fresh ingredients and homemade dough, order from Marco’s Pizza.

BuSineSS FocuS » marco’s Pizza • 2909 James l. redman Parkway., Plant city, fl • (813) 759-6400 • marcos.com

“by using only fresh dough customers enjoy a fresh, flavorful original classic or crispy thin crust topped with fresh quality ingredients like pepperoni, grilled chicken, mushrooms, italian sausage, feta cheese, steak, ground

beef, green olives, tomatoes, and more.”

Maria preparing deliciouS FreSh Marco’S pizza dough.

JeFF Scott and hiS Son Jonathan work together to create Mouth watering pizzaS For cuStoMerS

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com56

Mrs. Evelyn Madonia - Owner/General Manager

WWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COMTEL: 813.752.3141I-4 Exit 21 • 2011 N. Wheeler St.• Plant City, FL 33563

JULY 16 COVER TO COVERThe band performs in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds before and after the show

JULY 17 & 23RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

JULY 24LOLA & THE SAINTSPLUS P.J. LEARY & THE LAS VEGAS SOUNDSDoo Wop At Its Best! Relive the 50s & 60s as though it was yesterday – “Forever in Love,” Just Over the Brooklyn Bridge.”

JULY 30 RICHIE MERRITTRichie Merritt of the Marcels will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room with P.J. Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds.

JULY 31

RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

AUGUST 6JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Soundsperform before and after the show.

AUGUST 7RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

AUGUST 13 COVER TO COVERThe band performs in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus PJ Leary &

The Las Vegas Sounds beforeand after the show

AUGUST 14JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

AUGUST 21RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

AUGUST 21THE CONTOURSFEATURING SYLVESTER POTTSThe Red Rose Ballroom will rock-out on this night whenThe Contours take the stage! Their #1 Hit “Do You LoveMe” was featured in the hit film “Dirty Dancing” withPatrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey. P.J. Leary & The Las VegasSounds will perform before and after The Contours. It’s a‘don’t miss event’ for all Motown music lovers! Reserve yourspace early, this show will sell quickly!

AUGUST 28RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

SEPTEMBER 3RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

SEPTEMBER 4P.J. LEARY& THE LAS VEGAS SOUNDS, WITH COVER TO COVERAND KEN BRADYP. J. Leary & the Las Vegas Sounds, also featuring specialguests, Cover to Cover and Ken Brady (Lead Singer of The Casinos), featuring the 1967 hit “Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye” before and after the show in the Red Rose Dining Room.

SEPTEMBER 10RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

SEPTEMBER 11 &17JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

SEPTEMBER 18 & 24RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

SEPTEMBER 25GEORGE GALFO’SMYSTICSOriginal founding member, George Galfo brings his Mystics to the Red Rose Dining Room singing their hit song“Hushabye” and many more memorable Doo Wop favorites!Destiny performs before and after the show.

OCTOBER 1JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

SHOW RESERVATIONSPlease 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!

COMING SOON - OCTOBER 23

SOUL MUSIC NIGHTWITH LEGENDARY GRAMMY WINNERS

THE DELFONICS AND ARTHUR “SUGAR BEAR” AIKEN

RRCalendar_FocusPC_JULY2010:Layout 1 6/27/10 9:24 PM Page 1

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 57

Mrs. Evelyn Madonia - Owner/General Manager

WWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COMTEL: 813.752.3141I-4 Exit 21 • 2011 N. Wheeler St.• Plant City, FL 33563

JULY 16 COVER TO COVERThe band performs in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds before and after the show

JULY 17 & 23RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

JULY 24LOLA & THE SAINTSPLUS P.J. LEARY & THE LAS VEGAS SOUNDSDoo Wop At Its Best! Relive the 50s & 60s as though it was yesterday – “Forever in Love,” Just Over the Brooklyn Bridge.”

JULY 30 RICHIE MERRITTRichie Merritt of the Marcels will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room with P.J. Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds.

JULY 31

RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

AUGUST 6JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Soundsperform before and after the show.

AUGUST 7RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

AUGUST 13 COVER TO COVERThe band performs in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus PJ Leary &

The Las Vegas Sounds beforeand after the show

AUGUST 14JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

AUGUST 21RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

AUGUST 21THE CONTOURSFEATURING SYLVESTER POTTSThe Red Rose Ballroom will rock-out on this night whenThe Contours take the stage! Their #1 Hit “Do You LoveMe” was featured in the hit film “Dirty Dancing” withPatrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey. P.J. Leary & The Las VegasSounds will perform before and after The Contours. It’s a‘don’t miss event’ for all Motown music lovers! Reserve yourspace early, this show will sell quickly!

AUGUST 28RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

SEPTEMBER 3RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

SEPTEMBER 4P.J. LEARY& THE LAS VEGAS SOUNDS, WITH COVER TO COVERAND KEN BRADYP. J. Leary & the Las Vegas Sounds, also featuring specialguests, Cover to Cover and Ken Brady (Lead Singer of The Casinos), featuring the 1967 hit “Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye” before and after the show in the Red Rose Dining Room.

SEPTEMBER 10RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

SEPTEMBER 11 &17JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

SEPTEMBER 18 & 24RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

SEPTEMBER 25GEORGE GALFO’SMYSTICSOriginal founding member, George Galfo brings his Mystics to the Red Rose Dining Room singing their hit song“Hushabye” and many more memorable Doo Wop favorites!Destiny performs before and after the show.

OCTOBER 1JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

SHOW RESERVATIONSPlease 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!

COMING SOON - OCTOBER 23

SOUL MUSIC NIGHTWITH LEGENDARY GRAMMY WINNERS

THE DELFONICS AND ARTHUR “SUGAR BEAR” AIKEN

RRCalendar_FocusPC_JULY2010:Layout 1 6/27/10 9:24 PM Page 1

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com58

tHE ParrISH law FIrM, P.a. File thiS naMe For Future reFerence

Joseph E. Parrish, Attorney-at-Law. File it under “I” for “Injury Law with Integrity” in the event you require legal

services, because above all, integrity drives one of the finest lawyers in the country – a man driven to serve his clients with excellence.

The Parrish Law Firm, P.A. represents plaintiffs from throughout Florida in personal injury or damage recovery litigations. Key to its success is the fact that the group does not pursue frivolous cases. Joe Parrish is serious about his ethics, his work, and his belief in the American justice system. He will not waste his own, his clients’, or his country’s time by pursuing false claims. To the client’s

benefit, all personal injury cases are taken on a contingency basis and the initial consultation is free to those inquiring about his services.

For those truly injured, the firm specializes in the following areas of practice, among others: Wrongful Death, Negligence (vehicular or premises), Product Liability, Defamation, and Business Disputes. If you or a loved one has suffered serious injury or wrongful death due to negligent or strictly liable actions of another, The Parrish Law Firm, P.A. is dedicated to holding the responsible party accountable. Accountability can involve those causing an auto or boating accident or manufacturers and distributors of defective products put into the stream of commerce.

Parrish was born in 1969 in a very conservative Indiana town to a single mom, Ingrid Miller. She decided not to tell his father, Lenny Kalikow, about the pregnancy because he was beginning a music career in New York. Through a brief tumultuous marriage to another man, Joe was adopted and his name became Parrish. The marriage lasted only long enough to provide him with Ty, a younger brother he respects and cares for greatly.

After graduating from high school in Richmond, Indiana, Parrish was ready to discover the world. So, in 1988 after one semester of a distracted-by-dates-and-billiards college attempt, he enlisted in the Army for special training in infantry combat.

When tests revealed language acquisition aptitude, Parrish entered training to learn Korean. Thankful for the experience, he recalls, “The Army was a godsend for me because I realized I wasn’t ready for school. Although I was always confident in my analytical abilities and common sense, I didn’t realize how little I knew until I was surrounded by brainy language school roommates.”

The military experience made Parrish keenly aware he had much to learn. He describes it as “a time of incredible friendships along an avenue of personal growth to maturity.” He believes every young American should spend at least two years learning to appreciate our country

BuSineSS FocuS » the Parrish law firm, P.a. • 1206 millennium Pkwy., suite 2009, brandon, fl • (813) 643-4529 • theParrishfirm.com

Joe e. parriSh, p.a.Photo by Anthony Towers Photography

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 59

and serving “the best nation in the world,” and acknowledges that, “With that comes great responsibility.”

After downsizing required the base’s closure, Parrish used his Top-Secret Clearance spending two years as a civilian analyst for the Intelligence Division of the U.S. Southern Command in Panama.

When he returned stateside, he began attending the pre-med program at the University of Arizona. Recognized for his academic accomplishments, he became the only undergraduate on a team selected to conduct genetic sequencing of the virus itself to determine why most HIV positive mothers did not transfer HIV to their child during pregnancy.

Over time, hospital politics and conflicting moral values deflated Parrish’s ambitions in the medical field.

During this time, his beloved grandmother was battling breast cancer, so he moved from Arizona back to Indiana to care for and spend time with her. Thankfully, she lived longer than expected and long enough to meet Joe’s wife, Laurel, and their first son, Tristan, before her death.

At age 28, Parrish again returned to school, completing a double major in Business Administration and Human Resource Management. With encouragement from his wife, he decided it was time to locate and write to his birth father. When they met, Parrish was amazed to discover their similarities: both are athletic, musically talented (voice and trumpet), and hold very similar political views. He was also intrigued to learn his father’s dad had been the lead patent attorney for General Electric and most of the siblings were attorneys as well. Today, they have a solid relationship and speak on a regular basis.

The next accomplishment for Parrish was a law degree with honors from Indiana University-Indianapolis, where he served as president of the Phi Alpha Delta legal fraternity, student body representative-at-large, a National Regional Finals trial team member, and editor of the Indiana Law Review.

Following graduation, he joined one of Florida’s largest corporate defense firms, Fowler White in Tampa, where he met some great attorneys and gleaned much wisdom. One very special mentor was Frank Gassler, who Parrish describes as

“intense, but supportive of those who weren’t intimidated by him. He challenged me continuously.”

However, inner-turmoil and conflicting values troubled Parrish while practicing on the defense side of law, because insurance companies and large corporations worked largely to mitigate damage claims to a minimum, even when families required significant remuneration for the harms caused.

After gaining experience and with a compelling desire to represent the injured, Parrish left the defense firm to work for a small, but high volume, plaintiffs’ firm, where he honed his trial advocacy skills for the Plaintiff. It was important to Parrish that his own moral compass directed his representation of Plaintiffs. He wanted to be certain that clients he represented were truly injured and not merely trying to make a quick buck off the legal system. The only way to do that was to establish his own firm.

His wife Laurel, who attained a Butler University degree in Dance Pedagogy just before they met, supported the decision and they haven’t looked back. Today, after nine years of marriage and giving up her professional dance career with the likes of Dayton Ballet and Ballet Internationale, she’s a stay-at-home mom to Tristan, 8, and Elijah, 4, and has recently earned certification to teach Yoga. During his 50-hour workweeks, Parrish looks forward to being greeted in the evening by the “perfect family dog from Animal Rescue,” Izzy (nickname for Isolde), his boys who want to wrestle, and his wonderful wife.

He cherishes family time and says, “I can’t imagine being married to anyone else, as she is perfect for me and I really enjoy being a father. When friends ask me, I tell them, ‘Marriage and children will change your life, but it is so worth it.’ ” He’s helped or coached his sons’ basketball, flag football, and soccer teams. He and Tristan also attend weekly guitar lessons. Parrish knows how important parental involvement is through his own childhood disappointments when family members could not attend musical or sporting events.

Despite his own misgivings about certain aspects of litigation work, Parrish affirms the profession, saying, “Attorneys are good people, for the most part. Unfortunately, publicity follows the disreputable ones.”

Believing that satisfied client referrals should sustain and grow his practice, he spends little on advertising and relies more on his reputation and word of mouth. He is especially pleased for this Focus Magazine profile opportunity because, he says, “Focus focuses on the good in our community.”

As for this great community, Parrish believes everyone should contribute to its betterment. He meets each Wednesday with the Brandon Networking Group at 8:00 a.m. at Della’s on Oakfield and enjoys “the family-like atmosphere of the loving people in that group.” He is a member of both the Brandon and Riverview Chamber of Commerce and is active in the Brandon and Hillsborough County Bar Associations. Additionally, he is an Eagle Sponsor for the Florida Justice Association and member of the American Association of Justice.

The family attends the First Presbyterian Church of Brandon and enjoys supporting the YMCA where Parrish has served on the board.

The best attorneys also know their clients very well, a necessity in fully presenting the case and representing the plaintiffs’ specific

interests. In a recent, wrongful death claim, Parrish felt it necessary to live for several days with the grieving family in order to experience how they coped with the loss of their child. What he learned became an invaluable part of the family’s story presented in trial and resulted in a multi-million dollar verdict in their favor.

Serving the client and the community well will always mean providing service above and beyond the call. Informational workshops about legal issues can help the public and save them money. Parrish welcomes anyone interested in learning more about Florida’s No-Fault insurance laws and the important necessary coverage through attendance at his free seminar at 7 p.m. on September 7th at the Brandon Library.

To schedule a free initial consultation for your personal injury or product liability case, contact The Parrish Law Firm by phone, 813-643-4LAW (813-643-4529), through the website (http://www.theparrishfirm.com) or by personal visit to Suite 2009 at 1206 Millennium Parkway in Brandon.

From catastrophic injury to the wrongful death of a loved one, The Parrish Law Firm is your best choice.

BuSineSS FocuS » the Parrish law firm, P.a. • 1206 millennium Pkwy., suite 2009, brandon, fl • (813) 643-4529 • theParrishfirm.com

Joe e. parriSh, p.a.Photo by Anthony Towers Photography

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com60

tHE rEd rOSE INN aNd SUItESat the Red Rose Inn and Suites, guests

enjoy going back in time with music from a variety of genres. A typical

weekend evening at the Red Rose draws over 300 guests, who come to listen and dance to musical styles ranging from groups like, “Cover to Cover,” and their fabulous songs of the 70’s and 80’s to the Doo Wop music of the 50’s and 60’s, performed by, “Lola and the Saints,” and ”Johnny Alston’s Motown Rock and Roll Revue,” who perform still another type of

music and entertainment. The Red Rose’s Signature Group is, “Ralph Allocco & Second Wind,” who offers their audience songs that span six decades, with their 3 hour Las Vegas Style Revue. “Destiny,” is the dynamic House Band at the Red Rose, and they perform on a regular weekly basis; they play contemporary music, soft rock, and great music for dining and dancing!

Patrons can be seated at small intimate tables for two, or at tables for larger parties, celebrating anniversaries, birthdays or

other special occasions. The Red Rose offers prime seating for their Floor Shows, 5-Star Dining, a select Wine List, and a choice selection of Cocktails from the Polo Club Lounge. Dining and hotel service are provided by an impeccably trained host team and wait staff.

At the helm of this entertainment and dining palace is the beautiful Mrs. Evelyn Madonia who is the creator of the Red Rose dynasty, a 261-room hotel located just off Interstate 4 and State Road 39.

She is known as a perfectionist, who prides herself and her organization in providing exemplary customer service. At each of the Red Rose events she attends, she is seen with her husband of more than 50 years, and Co-Owner of the Red Rose Inn and Suites, Mr. Batista Madonia, Sr.

Mrs. Evelyn Madonia’s Red Rose creation is a reflection of her love of musical styles, such as Rhythm and Blues, Rock-A –Billy, Rock ‘n’ Roll, Doo-Wop, and Motown. She is also a fan of the Theater and of

BuSineSS FocuS » the red rose inn and suites • 2011 n. wheeler st. Plant city, fl 33563 • (813) 752-3141 • redroseinnandsuites.com

MrS. evelyn and BatiSta Madonia, Sr. poSe with “the legacy oF the teMptationS”

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 61

Films from the past, such as, “Gone With the Wind”, which was Mrs. Evelyn’s inspiration for the Hotel’s décor. In addition to musical entertainment, the Red Rose Inn and Suites also has weekly events which include a Sunday Champagne Brunch, Dance Lessons on Tuesday evenings with dance instructor Susan Staton, an All -You-Can Eat Prime Rib and Seafood Buffet every Tuesday and Wednesday night, with music by, ”Free Time Jazz,” and...a Singles Night Out featuring live music by, “Destiny,” with special guest, the incomparable Tony Johnson, every Thursday night! For more information about the Red Rose Calendar of Events, visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com.

In addition to owning the Red Rose, Mrs. Evelyn and Batista, Sr. have operated a produce business since they married in 1958. Their financial success has come through the business of growing, packing and shipping tomatoes. As a result of their

great business successes, Mrs. Evelyn and Batista, Sr. are known for their support of, and generosity to the Plant City Community, through donations to the city’s various charitable organizations.

For special events and activities in the community, the beautifully restored Red Rose Grand Ballroom is the venue of choice. The Plant City Chamber of Commerce hosts its monthly Contact Breakfasts in the Ballroom, as well as their annual Membership Dinners. In addition, the Ballroom has been the location for the “Sister’s and Company” Annual Fashion Show benefiting a different charity of their choice each year, and the Rainbow Ball which benefits the Child Abuse Council.

The ballroom is an Event-Destination for weddings, graduations, anniversary celebrations, class reunions, family reunions, and more. Bar service and catering are available, in order to complete and compliment all event packages.

BuSineSS FocuS » the red rose inn and suites • 2011 n. wheeler st. Plant city, fl 33563 • (813) 752-3141 • redroseinnandsuites.com

red roSe and SuiteS ownerS MrS. evelyn and BatiSta Madonia, Sr.

red roSe inn and SuiteS

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com62

Payment enclosed: Check Money Order $150 Each Brick

Donor’s Name:

Mailing Address:

Phone Number:

Line 1 (15 characters)

Line 2 (15 characters)

Line 3 (15 characters)

Send to: Plant City Armed Forces Memorials Foundation, Inc., PO Box 5013, Plant City, FL 33563-0036

Brick Engraving: 3 lines- 15 characters each line, including spaces and punctuation. PLEASE PRINT.

SHOW YOUR PRIDEBuy a Memorial Brick to Honor a Veteran

You don’t want to miss out on this

great opportunity!

The Veterans’ Memorial Monument Park at Courier Field is now open to the public with hundreds of

engraved bricks honoring US Veterans are now on proud display.

We still have a limited supply of bricks available for purchase, so order your veteran’s brick today. All bricks purchased will be unveiled for viewing at a

special patriotic event later this year.

We encourage everyone to honor the US Veterans in their life!

Plant City’s new Veterans’ Monument at Courier Field is allowing you the opportunity to commemorate our USA Veterans with an engraved memorial brick. Each brick will become a permanent part of history in Plant City! Memorial bricks are open to all veterans of the USA military services: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard.

Include the name, rank, branch of service and dates if they fi t into the character limits of 15 characters per line.

www.veteransmonument.com

2909 James L. Redman Pkwy

813-759-6400STORE HOURS: OPENS DAILY 11AM, CLOSES SUN-THUR 10PM & FRIDAY-SAT MIDNIGHT

LIMITED DELIVERY AREA • MINIMUM ORDER FOR DELIVERY $7.00 GRATUITIES NOT INCLUDED

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Heartstrings Boutiquenow carrying Miche Bags and designer custom jewelry

Heartstrings BoutiqueHeartstrings Boutique

“making the world more beautiful one room at a time”

Full Service DesignPatricia Rogers

Owner/Decorator

101 S. Collins St. • Plant City • 33563

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 63

Dental associates of central floriDa

813-719-22221702 Walden Village Ct

Plant City, FL 33566

Trey Walding, D.M.D. - 14 Years ExperienceJohn Carter, D.M.D.- 14 Years ExperienceTrey Mueller DMD - 5 years experience

General Dentists - Graduates of University of Florida

Caring Family Dentistry

New Patients & Emergencies Welcome

THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT.

Our Services Include:Full Mouth Reconstruction

Including Restoration of Dental Implants, Crowns and & Cosmetic Procedures

(Veneers)Teeth Whitening

Orthodontists (Braces) Replacement of Missing Teeth (Bridges, Partials, Dentures)

White FillingsDenture Relines & Repairs

Perio Gum Treatment (non-surgical)Extractions

Tempromandibular Disorders (TMJ)

Financing Available • Most Insurances Accepted

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* paid in full at the time of serviceCan not combined with other servicesDoes not apply to multiple services

* paid in full at the time of serviceCan not combined with other servicesDoes not apply to multiple services

* paid in full at the time of serviceCan not combined with other services * paid in full at the time of service

Can not combined with other services

Residential & Commercial CleaningWeekly • Bi-Weekly • MonthlyQuality, Dependable Service

NEW SERVICE OFFEREDLet us make your move less stressful. In addition to

our cleaning service we now offer packing your home for a move. You provide boxes, etc., we pack your

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We Will Make Your Home Sparkle!We Will Make Your Home Sparkle!

Fine Touch CleaningFine Touch Cleaning813-300-4763 • 813-757-0140

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We Will Make Your Home Sparkle!We Will Make Your Home Sparkle!We Will Make Your Home Sparkle!We Will Make Your Home Sparkle!We Will Make Your Home Sparkle!We Will Make Your Home Sparkle!We Will Make Your Home Sparkle!We Will Make Your Home Sparkle!We Will Make Your Home Sparkle!

Anthony TowersOwner/Photographer

Phone 813-205-4856www.majesticmemoriesphoto.com

$100GIFT CERTIFICATE

Visit my website to join my mailing list and email me your name, email address

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juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com64

Gen X’ers Must Consider needs of three Generations

If you’re a member of Generation X — the age group born between 1963 and 1981 — you may well be in the

busiest time of your life. You’re probably in the early to middle stages of your career, for one thing, and if you have children, they’re likely still at home. Yet despite the hectic nature of your days, you still have to look after the financial concerns of your children, yourself and possibly even your parents. This three-generational effort may seem challenging, but with some planning and persistence, you can help your family make progress toward a variety of goals.

To begin with, let’s consider the needs of your children. Obviously, you’re already providing for their living expenses, so from an investment point of view, your biggest concern may be how you’ll help them pay for college. Here’s a suggestion: Put time on your side and start saving as soon as possible. You might want to consider opening a 529 college savings plan, which offers potential tax advantages.

Saving for college is important — but so is saving for your own retirement. Consequently, you’ll have to find the right balance of resources to devote to these two goals. To avoid shortchanging yourself, take full advantage of your 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored retirement plan. Contribute as much as you can afford right now, and whenever you get a raise, increase your contributions. At the very least, put in enough to earn your employer’s matching contribution, if one is offered. Your 401(k) accumulates on a tax-deferred basis, and your contributions

are generally made with pretax dollars, so the more you put in, the lower your taxable income.

You aren’t confined to investing in a 401(k), either, because you can also put money into a traditional IRA, which accumulates tax deferred, or a Roth IRA, which accumulates tax free, provided you’re at least age 59½ when you start making withdrawals and you’ve held your account at least five years.

Once you’ve started saving for college for your kids and investing for your own retirement, you’ve got one more generation to consider — the older one. For example, you’ll need to make sure your parents have adequate financial protection for their health care expenses. If your parents have saved and invested throughout their lives, they may not need any financial help from you — but that doesn’t mean you’ll never be called upon to straighten out their affairs. That’s why now is the perfect time to ask your parents some key questions: Where are your assets located? Do you have a will? How about a durable power of attorney? You might think these inquiries will make you sound “selfish,” but the opposite is true: The more you know about your parents’ financial situation and estate plans, the bigger help you’ll be to them, and to other members of your family, if the day arrives when your parents need some assistance.

It may not always be easy to act on behalf of three generations — but it’s worth the effort.

business » edward jones

subMitted by: edward jones

NOW IS THE TIMETO SCHEDULE YOURPORTFOLIO REVIEW.When you stop to think about what’s happened in the past year, it’s easy to realize how quickly things can change.

That’s why you should schedule your portfolio review today. This is an ideal time to discuss how the market may have impacted your financial goals. Then we can help you decide if you should revise your investments. And even if you don’t need to make changes, it’s still important to evaluate your investment strategy and help ensure it’s still on track with your goals.

Call today to schedule your free portfolio review.

Michael Cameron Financial Advisor2501 Thonotosassa RdPlant City, FL 33563813-759-1491www.edwardjones.com Member SPIC

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 65

MARKLEY CHIROPRACTIC

1802 W. Baker Street. Plant City, Florida.

752-6001Monday -Friday 9 am-1 pm; 3 pm-6 pm

www.markleychiropractic.com

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

Care For All Ages

Back Row: Judy Markley A.P., Dr. Guy Markley, Dr. Robyn Markley-McGarry, Front Row: Julie Pippin C.A., Donna Pettit C.A., Vicki Hutcheson C.A.

CHIROPRACTIC:- Back pain and Headaches- Sports/exercise injuries- Arm and leg pain- Auto injury- Many aging problems- Whole food nutrition- Pregnant women and children welcome

ACUPUNCTURE:- Sciatica- Shoulder/knee pain- Allergies- Nutritional testing/ counseling- Weight loss

First impressions count, especially when it comes to your work wardrobe. We’re a Sanitone® Certifi ed Master Dry Cleaner, which means we have the high standards for detail and fi nish that will keep your clothes looking great day after day. Our exclusive cleaning process has

been trusted by leading designers for over 75 years. Trust Myers Cleaners with your business clothes.

We’ll show you the difference.

Free Pick-up & Delivery

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com66

BarBara Martin of Martin’s PlaCe

when you first meet Barbara Martin of Martin’s place in downtown Plant City in the Lee Building,

there is no question why she is one of our Success Stories for this issue. Barbara epitomizes the definition of southern charm and graciousness. This is probably why she has been in the beauty business for over four decades and has several customers that she has taken care of for over five generations.

When asked is there a memory that stands out in your mind about working so closely with your clients, Barbara softly chuckles and says that “being not only a hairstylist but a confidant person who keeps secrets, would enable me to write a best seller, but I could retire off of what I would make by people paying me not to publish the book.”

There is good reason why her clients are so loyal, Barbara knew she wanted

to be a hairstylist when she was in the second grade. Having trouble with her own hair, she loved to help make family and neighbors beautiful with what she laughingly called “kitchen curls” and pin curls. She is still very conscience of ever changing colors and styles. Barbara takes a course at least every 3 or 4 months to keep up with the latest in hair artistry.

Her salon’s services feature everything from hair, skin, and nails: Including the new shellac for natural nails, hair pieces and a variety of other hair accessories. Barbara is also kept up to date by her 11 grandchildren and wonderful staff, who keep her informed of the latest “cutting edge” styles.

The warmth of her voice conveys how she feels about everyone that works for her and her clients when she says it is all about “girls coming together helping girls”

business » suCCess

Financial Aid Available For Those Who Qualify • Placement Assistance Available

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foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 67

Freddie Mullisof freddie Mullis PluMbinG

I grew up in Plant City. I learned the plumbing trade from my dad. I worked for a wholesale plumbing supply store

and a retail plumbing supply store before going into business for myself. I learned a lot from plumbers buying supplies there. They would talk about recent jobs and how they fixed them. In 1984 I ventured out and opened my own business and have been running my own plumbing repair business since.

» aspirations:My goal is to be financially stable so that I can live comfortably and eventually retire. In my retirement I would love to be able to travel.

» inspirations:My inspiration would have to be my father.I learned to work hard and have a good

work ethic. My mother was a big influence on me also. She taught me how to treat people. A lot of my good qualities came from her.

» successes:I believe that my success is due to the fact I’m known as a good, honest and fair person in business and everyday life. I feel successful in life just knowing that I treat people the way I would want to be treated.

» future:I want to keep growing my plumbing business in Plant City and taking good care of my customers. Customers are our future, so taking care of them is very important to us.

business » suCCess

www.flintcreekoutfitters.com

RU N 2

K A Y A K I N G CAMPING

O R

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RiveRview13421 Fishhawk Blvd. • Lithia, FL 33547

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OCALA4414 SW College Rd., Ste. 910 • Ocala, FL 34474

352-237-5325

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com68

Salon, Nails & tanning (formally natural creations)

CALL NOW813-754-6592

Location: 1309 South Collins St. Suite 3, Plant City 33566

By Brooklyn Bridge Deli and in front of “Save A Lot” store • Se Habla Español

with selected hair stylists.Good until Aug 23. New Clients only

Single process color and cut

$50

The Breeze • 813-754-6592 Plant City, FL

BEAT THE HEAT AND TAN INSIDE

Tanning $35/month

plus taxThe Breeze • 813-754-6592

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1 hour facial,pedi,

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The Breeze Salon would like to welcome Eric Randall and Doris Salter

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 69

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Educated and Dedicated to serve you!

Chiropractic Manipulation

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Massage Therapy - Deep Tissue

Cox Flexion / Distraction Technique

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Power Plate Physical Rehabilitation

Nutritional Balance

Most Insurance Plans/HMOS Accepted

Auto Injury

Whiplash

Headaches

Back and Leg Pain

Sciatica

Muscle Spasms

Neck, Shoulder, and Arm Pain

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Dr. Todd GlennDr. William "B.J." Garrison

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Cfor you.CCCCfor you.CCCCfor you.CCCCfor you.CCC813-754-2273 • 1215 W Baker Street • Plant City, FL 33563

Now Offering Dynamic Surface Electromyography. sEMG is a device which measures the amount of electric activity your muscles release when they are contracting, more commonly known as muscle tension. This equipment helps to determine soft tissue injury including muscle, ligament and tendon damage.

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com70

We are independent agents proudly representing Auto-Owners Insurance.

AGENCY NAME HERE UP TO TWO LINES LONG

Town Name • 555 555-1234

LIFE

• H

OM

E •

CA

R •

BU

SIN

ES

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Auto-Owners Insurance ranks highest among auto insurance providers in the J.D. Power and Associates 2008-2009 Auto Claims Studies.SM Study based on 11,616 total responses, ranking 25 insurance providers. Excludes those with claims only for glass/windshield, theft/stolen, roadside assistance or bodily injury claims. from auto insurance. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed June 2008 - June 2009. Your

experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com.

We are independent agents proudly representing Auto-Owners Insurance.

AGENCY NAME OR LOGO HERE UP TO TWO LINES LONGTown Name • 555 555-1234 • website

We believe that there’s something to be said for being straightforward, for honesty and for common sense. That is how we will handle all of your policies. Everything will be easy to understand.

Call us or stop in to learn how you can save by insuring your life, home, and auto with Auto-Owners Insurance Company. As an independent agency, we can design an insurance program that is just right for you and your family.

Ask us about our award recognized service!

Thank you for rating Auto-Owners Insurance “Highest in Customer Satisfaction with the Auto Insurance Claims Experience,

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1248

2 (1

1-09

)We are independent agents proudly representing Auto-Owners Insurance.

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We believe that there’s something to be saidfor being straightforward, for honesty andfor common sense. That is how we will handle all of your policies. Everything will be easy to understand.

Call us or stop in to learn how you can save by insuring your life, home, and auto with Auto-Owners Insurance Company. As an independent agency, we can design an insur-ance program that is just right for you and your family.

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Auto-Owners Insurance ranks highest among auto insurance providers in the J.D. Power and Associates 2008-2009 Auto Claims StudiesSM. Study based on 11,616 total responses, ranking 25 insurance providers. Excludes those with claims only for glass/windshield, theft/stolen, roadside assistance or bodily injury claims. from auto insurance. Proprietary study results are based

on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed June 2008 - June 2009. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com

701 N. Wilder rd.

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813-752-3611

The Health Center of Plant City

180 bed nursing and rehabilitation center

Physical, occupational, and speech therapists

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foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 71

HOMe GuideThis is a special advertising section

find your new hoMe today!

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com72

PLANT CITY DREAM!Magnifi cent 5 bedroom, 4 1/2 bath Walden Lake pool home with private fi shing pier. Tremendous volume ceilings, huge master suite, gourmet island granite kitchen and so much more! Asking $499,900

PLANT CITY POOL HOME Adorable 3 bedroom / 2 bath pool home with absolutely beautiful fenced yard just minutes from I-4 and shopping. Renovated baths, dual pane windows, separate living room and family room. Inside utility and beautiful polished wood ceilings throughout! REDUCED TO SELL AT JUST $119,900

CUTE AS A BUTTONAdorable 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. REDUCED TO JUST $89,900

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foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 73

Jimmie Robinson - 813-754-3586 ext 222RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

1513 J. L. Redman PkwyPlant City, FL 33563

www.fl oridamoves.com/jimmie.robinsonE-mail: Jimmie.Robinson@floridamoves.com • toll free 1-877-442-7001

ZEPHYRHILLS20+ acres-$250,000. MLS#T2385378 7109 KINARD RD60+ acres-$1,200,000. MLS#T2399075 FORBES RD20+ acres-$650,000. MLS#T2423651

5904 PAUL BUCHMAN20+ acres-$362,780. MLS#T2425622. 2905 S FRONTAGE RD8 acres w/home-$300,000. MLS#T2390805

208 E TERRACE DR20+ acres w/1520 SF building-$1,300,000. MLS#T2386723 1508 SAMMONDS RD4675 SF warehouse building built in 2005-$600,000. MLS#T2424376. 902 W MLK BLVD4000 SF warehouse building-$375,000. MLS#T2400242

608 N ALEXANDER ST4938 SF offi ce building-$349,000. MLS#T2330860 208 S COLLINS ST18,786 SF historic offi ce building-$949,000. MLS#T2426002

8062 BULL LN4BR/3BA manufactured home on fenced 1.27 acres. Over 2300 SF living, deck and large workshop area. Just reduced-$139,900. MLS#T2388743.

528 HALF MILE RDTwo homes for the price of one on 1+ acre-main home is 3BR/2BA/2CG w/1400 SF and 2nd home is 1BR/1BA w/carport. Pool area between homes. $225,000. MLS#T2388754.

1633 EAGLES GREEN #17Walden Lake-2/2 condo located on the golf course and conservation area. Updated kitchen and bath, new wood fl ooring, screen porch and open fl oor plan. $139,900. MLS#T2381230.

2104 S FORBES RDNeat and clean 3 BR/2.5 BA home on 1+ acres with fi replace, volume ceilings, great room PLUS a garage ready for all the toys! $272,500. MLS#T2422795.

205 W CALHOUN STCute 3/2 block home on a corner lot convenient to town. Home has almost 2000 SF living, updated kitchen, fi replace, two car garage & more. $159,900. MLS#T2424395.

1202 W BAKER STClassic 5/3 two-story home built in 1908 on 1.5 acres inside the historic district. Home has 4700+ SF, 6 fi replaces and so much more. $359,000. MLS#T2402308

805 N COLLINS STCompletely remodeled 4/3.5 home w/loads of upgrades, almost 3000 SF, wine cellar, brick patio and 2 gazebos, new roof and 3 zoned A/C units. $259,000. MLS#T2410336.

DEDICATED TO THE VALUE OF HOME AND FAMILY

908 N COLLINS ST4/3.5 built in 2005 and situated on the brick streets of Plant City. Energy effi cient home has granite countertops, balcony off master and 2576 SF living. $274,500. MLS#T2423487.

115 ALSOBROOK ST3 BR/1 BA historic home in need of TLC-1231 SF living. Situated on 1/2 acre cor-ner lot inside the city limits. Only $59,900. MLS#T2419457.

709 N EVERS STClassic 3/2 situated on a double lot inside the historic district. Home in need of renovation from fi re damage, but lots of potential and over 2900 SF living. $165,000. MLS#T2421560.

LAKE LOUISA, CLERMONTRecently remodeled 4/2 lake house w/over 2400 SF living, newer roof, septic, fl ooring and A/C plus double boathouse with lifts. Your own personal getaway-$499,900. MLS#T2423081.w

5602 THONOTOSASSA RD10 acres MOL with lots of trees and small creek running through property that includes 3BR/1 BA block home w/over 1700 SF living. $399,900. MLS#T2400163.

REDUCED

Land and Commercial

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com74

Walden lakereview

The Walden Lake Community Association Board Meetings are the third Monday of each month. The

next meeting will be July 19th at 6:00 PM and will be held at the new office building on Griffin Boulevard in Walden Lake.

At the recent meeting, Tom Daramus advised the Board that all the benches in Walden Lake are either unusable or have disappeared. It was suggested that the Board look into the possibility of individual or corporate sponsorships to replace the benches and have plaques placed on the benches with the name of the donor.

A motion was made and approved to purchase an alarm system for the building through a local company, which doesn’t require a contract.

It was decided that the Community Open House for the new office building would be postponed until the fall when it is not so hot. It is being considered to hold the open house in conjunction with the Dog Park’s second annual Howl-O-Ween event.

If you noticed that the grass at the front entrance was dead, it was due to vandalism. The vandals used a chemical that killed much of the grass.

Marlene now has thirteen communities where she is enforcing the deed restrictions. The most recent addition is Emerald Forest.

A reminder that it is time to pay your 2nd half of 2010 community dues. Please call the WLCA office at 754-8999 if you did not receive your bill. As a realtor, I see first hand what happens when a resident doesn’t pay the small fees we have in place to keep our community up. I recently had a closing, where the 2nd half of 2009 and the first half of 2010 plus the $90 assessment was not paid. The total of $496 grew to over $1850 due to fines, liens, and attorney’s fees. Don’t let this happen to you.

East Hillsborough Art Guild will be displaying their fine art in the reception area of the new office building. The paintings will be on display for two months at a time with new artists every other month. The artists currently featured are Nancy Discoll, Colleen Justin, and Peggy Courson. Stop by and check out the new building and the fine art on display.

A special thank you was given to Vicki Salhus, who volunteered many hours to do the painting in the reception area and the faux painting in the kitchen of the new office building. Vickie is a Walden Lake resident, who does professional faux and regular painting. Also, thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Jack Wolff for donating a framed poster of Walden Lake. The poster is from the 1980’s and was used on billboards advertising Walden Lake while it was being developed.

real estate » walden lake

subMitted by: naTalIe sweeT

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foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 75

NATE DAVISMORTGAGE CONSULTANT

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Several months ago, I was talking with a colle ague of mine and said that I was frustrated with Mortgage Company Representatives. I found them to be unfriendly, uncaring, and not very knowledgeable. My colleague said, “You should contact Nate Davis. He is a Mortgage Bro-ker at Plant City Mortgage. You will fi nd him to be very helpful and he stays involved with you personally through the whole process of your mortgage loan.

I took my colleague’s advice and called Nate Davis. My experience with Nate has been exhilarating. I needed someone who would take a personal interest on my behalf and Nate was the person who fi lled that void. H e took charge immediately. He kept me informed daily while saving me a lot of money. To say that I recommend Nate Davis is an understatement. Anyone who uses Nate Da-vis will not be disappointed but will receive extraordinary customer service.

- G. Herrington

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com76

1513 Jim Redman Parkway, Plant City813-754-3586

Call us for your Residential and Commercial Real Estate needs

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NEW LISTINGS!! Laurel Lake unique single family detached “condos”. Great room w/2BR/2BA golf course view, shows like a model. 3BR/2BA Holly II with den, screened lanai, great waterfront location. Call Maddie Alford @ 813-382-8382 to preview. $179,900.

NEW LOW PRICE!4 BR/2 BA on 1 acre. Eat-in kitchen, dining room, 2 living areas plus fi replace! Fenced. VERY cute!! $74,509.00 (negotiable!) . MLS #T2373300. Call Lynne Halleran, 813-763-1881.

ADORABLECOMPLETELY remodeled home. Nothing left to worry about - new thermal windows (saves on your power bill!), new air handler, new roof (one month old), new fl ooring, new wood cabinets, new tile back splash, new bathroom vanities, mirrors, tile & fi xtures, new carpet, new paint inside and out. NEW, New, New!! Big, fenced-in yard, lots of shady trees and a lovely screened back porch. Call Lynne Halleran 813-763-1881. MLS #T2415063

CUSTOM HOME ON 1 ACRE3 BR + Den, 3 BA. Immaculate. Designer Kitchen. Huge Master Bath with walk-in, tiled shower. Large lanai. Mature trees. Plenty of room for a pool and pool bath is ready for you! Private road. Vacant 1-acre lot available, too! $239,525. Additional one-acre lot available. MLS #T2419384. Call Lynne 813-763-1881 or Cindy 813-760-7957.

KEYSVILLEHome in country. Tree shaded .87 lot. Needs a little TLC. Seller incentives available. Call Jean Bridgmon 813-478-3107. MLS# T2424265

GOOD CENTSUnique, energy effi cient home in the country! Minutes from town, this peaceful, one-of-a-kind country retreat will satisfy even the most miserly of buyers! Foam-fi lled walls, low-e, dual-pane windows, R-31 insulation in attic, tankless hot water heater - too many savings to mention here. Call Lynne Halleran 813-763-1881, or Cindy Clark 813-760-7957. MLS #T2426741.

WALDEN LAKEWant to see what’s in the rest of this picturesque property?Then go to www.kenselzplantcityrealty.com and “click” onMy Listings. Reduced to $229,000 4/2/2 Postcard Perfect.Call Ken Lawrence 813-716-0187. MLS# T2407693

WALDEN LAKEWell maintained 3BR/2BA/2CG home features formal living and dining, open kitchen w/dinette and family room. Master features garden bath, dual vanities and separate shower. Finished lanai w/spa pre-wire. 1 year AHS warranty. Call Maddie Alford @ 813-382-8382. $186,000.

STOP LOOKING!A must see!! This is it! Bright, clean and in excellent condition. This 4 BR/3 BA home is move-in ready. Nice front porch for family gatherings overlooks the big yard with beautiful oak trees. Located only two minutes from Wal Mart, Publix, and SweetBay. You can enjoy shopping time again. This home has the perfect kennel for your dog. Do you like saving money on your energy bill? This home has the Aura Economizer whole house ventilation system. $138,500. MLS #T2419349. Call Brenda Ruiz today, 813-967-0831.

ACREAGE ON FRONTAGE RDBeautiful 8 acres high and dry - fenced and zoned 4 units per acre. Highway frontage on South Frontage Road and Interstate 4. Home on the property is older with 1946 heated sq ft, 3 car carport, central heat and air, and sold “As-Is”. Land is suitable for horses, cattle, or future development. Property has Greenbelt exemption.$375,000. MLS #T2390805. Call Jimmie, 813-390-6441

WE ARE PLANT CITY’SREAL ESTATE MARKET LEADER!

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A CHOICE LOCATION! Walking distance to A-rated schools; shopping & entertainment close by. Beautifully upgraded KB home on the largest lot in Sundance community of Park Ridge. 3 BR/ 2.5 BA + huge Bonus/Game Rm. Gorgeous kitchen. Oversized heated, screened-in saltwater pool & spa. PVC privacy fence. NOT a short sale! $234,012. Call Lynne at 813-763-1881 or Cindy at 813-760-7957.

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 77

Angel Miller813-546-9863

Cathy Martin813-376-0891

Natalie Sweet813-758-9586

It’s ALL ABOUT YOU! Call for a No Obligation Buyer or Seller Consultation

Search for homes at www.AnotherSweetSale.com

Short Sale APPROVED! Fabulous Santa Cruz model with TONS of UP-GRADES. 3 Bedroom, 2 1/2 Bath w/2 Car Garage. $125,000

WALDEN WOODS TOWNHOME

2635 Sq’ of Living Area w/4 Bedrooms, 2 1/2 Baths & Huge Bonus Room in Walden Lake. Beautifully decorated & lovingly cared for on large fenced corner lot. Priced right at $212,500

FABULOUS 2-STORY HOME

This 4 Bdr, 3 1/2 Ba Golf Course home features gleaming cherry & bamboo fl oor-ing. Split plan w/gorgeous his & hers master bathrooms w/natural stone, granite, & modern design. Huge backyard & lanai w/outdoor bar area, grill & sink. $242,599

UNIQUE 3,000 SQ’ WALDEN LAKE HOME

Enjoy the peace and quiet at the end of a cul-de-sac in this fabulous 4 Bdr 2 Bath Walden Lake pool home, featuring formal living/dining room and family room off the kitchen. $169,900

WALDEN LAKE IN EMERALD FOREST

Built in 2004, this home features tons of upgrades, 4 Bdrs, 3 Baths an enormous Great Room, a dream master suite, gourmet kitchen, over 4200 sq’ total all on over 1 acre. Huge Bonus Room over the 3 Car Garage. Move right into this dream home!

CUSTOM HOME ON QUIET ROAD

3 bedroom 1664 sq’ home PERFECT for a starter or downsizing home. Located minutes off I4 on the quaint brick streets in the heart of Plant City. New Metal roof, New Kitchen, New Bath & more!

COMPLETELY REMODELED & UNDER $100,000!

Beautiful 5+ Acre Executive Lots in this Gorgeous Gated Community. You will fall in love with this unique Equestrian Commu-nity w.21 lots & plenty of wildlife. Horses welcome! From $59,900.

ALAFIA RIDGE ESTATES

Wonderful 3/2/2 pool home in quiet neighbor-hood. Featuring new carpeting, new roof in 2005, updated bathrooms w/stylish vanities, granite & handsome tile. Formal living & din-ing rooms plus family room. $179,000

WARM & WELCOMING

You will love this 4 Bedroom 2 Bath Walden Lake home featuring tile fl oors, formal Liv-ing & Dining Rooms, Kitchen that opens to the Family Room, great yard and so much more. Don’t miss this at only $169,900

BEAUTIFUL AFFORDABLE HOME

Looking for lots of space at the right price. You’ll love this 4 Bdr, 3 Bath on 1 acre. This home features Formal Living & Dining Rooms plus large, open Family Room. The Master bathroom has a sitting room/offi ce off of it. Split bedroom plan and ready to go. $65,000

GREAT OPPORTUNITY IN MULBERRY!

Move right into this fabulous 5144 sq’ home with 4 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths on over 1 Acre. Built in 05 and has every-thing you could possibly want already built into it! $595,000

ELEGANT EXECUTIVE HOME

SHORT SALE

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com78

neW HOMeOWner taX Credits are just the

beGinninG….

By no means is this an inclusive list, but just the “tip of the iceberg”.

Lowes Coupons for new Homeowners (10% off ): http://www.lowes.com/cd_Lowes+Moving+Center_509684072_

You know they will use this. Who doesn’t make a thousand trips to Lowes after buying a home?

» house Cleaning discounts:MTO Clean right here in Hillsborough County offers coupons to new homeowners for discounted cleaning services. http://hillsboroughfl.mtoclean.com/

» free energy efficient light bulbs:You can complete an online energy audit of your home and TECO will send you free energy-efficient fluorescent light bulbs!

http://www.tampaelectric.com/residential/saveenergy/energyaudit/

Hop onto your favorite search engine for additional new homeowner programs. I understand that local cable and internet providers also offer new owner incentives as well.

Good luck and happy saving.

real estate » MortGaGe

subMitted by: naTe davIs

if you are a new homeowner, there are many programs and discounts available to you in addition to the current tax credit.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 79

*Annual Total Gross Closed Volume

BUDGET PLEASER… 3 B/R, 2 Bath, 1612 sq ft Block Home. Larger Bedrooms, Remodeled Baths, Family Room, Screened Patio, Fenced too.

PINEDALE BEAUTY…Totally remodeled 4 B/R, 3 Bath home with Pool… Rare opportunity to make this home yours! Ceramic Tile, Formal L/R & D/R, Family Room, Huge Lanai area with Brick Pavers & Koi Pond, NEW Windows. $219,900.

MOVE IN READY… 3 B/R, 2 Bath, 2 Car Garage Home in Brandon Traces. Oak Laminate in Living/Dining area, NEW Interior Paint, Upgraded Light Fixtures, NEW A/C, Screened Patio, Fenced, Extra BIG Yard. $124,900.

OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS! 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2 Car Garage BRAND NEW 1800+ sq ft Home just $151,990!! Beautiful home in wonderful community. Call 716-3997 for more information.

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juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com80

tHree key strenGtHs knowledGe,

traininG, exPertise

In the business world one needs these three key strengths; knowledge, training and expertise. Do you remember when

you were trying to get that first job, and all you kept hearing was “You need more experience”? How are you supposed to get experience if you never get the chance to actually get experience? I never quite understood or agreed with that concept. Well, today, you go to school and get an education (knowledge), and through jobs and on-the-job or technical training…you gain experience and thus expertise.

In the Real Estate world it is and should be much the same. One can actually obtain a degree in Real Estate at many accredited universities and colleges. Most of the time a person can take 60+ hours in class in order to sit for the state exam. Having a license doesn’t make a good real estate agent. Without solid training, a real estate agent cannot keep up with changes in laws, techniques and technology. Without certifications and designations, real estate agents cannot successfully market their expertise.

The average consumer may not care much about this, but in today’s market it is vital to work with an agent who has these three key strengths; knowledge, training and expertise. Without these, a Realtor is going to have a difficult time assisting today’s customer in the challenges of the market. From educating the customer on the process, to writing the offer and consulting through the transaction; the transactions in today’s market can be complex. Just having a license isn’t enough. Unfortunately, that is all some agents have.

Real Estate is more than just supply and demand. Short Sales have proven that to be true with complicated lender approvals, 3rd party negotiators, excess fees, and fraudulent practices. Buyers need to be sure they are working with an agent who has knowledge, training and expertise to navigate the process. Sellers need to be sure they have more than just a sign in their yard to attempt to sell their home in this competitive and challenging buyer’s market. Does your agent have what it takes?

real estate » jo-ann lusk

subMitted by: jo-ann lusk

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foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 81

JAYCOR HOMES llc

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juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com82

Ministry is Our tarGet“rather than baseball, football,

basketball and soccer, we wanted to provide another avenue for

kids to do something outdoors,” said archery instructor Mike Perry. “Not everyone wants to go out and shoot guns. This is just another tool to keep kids active.”

Perry is part of a ministry started by Dennis Pawlowski that aims to share Christ with kids and their families through outdoor activities that include one of their most popular sports, archery.

“When I was a teenager, my friend’s dad took me to South Carolina to go hunting and I loved it. My dad taught me about the Lord. I combined my two loves and I guess that is how this ministry began,” recalled Pawlowski, a member of the First Baptist Church in Plant City.

Those loves are the driving forces that have led to the formation of Trinity Special Sportman’s Ministry that started in 2005 by offering a beginner’s course for youth in archery. Since that time, the ministry has averaged 200-300 kids per year that have taken courses offered several times throughout the year from the beginner’s level to the advanced. According to Perry, most participants are boys but 20 -25 % are girls.

Initially the clinics were offered at the Plant City Family YMCA but now are held at an indoor archery range at Bailey’s Outdoor Products (201 E. MLK Blvd) in Plant City. Bailey’s Outdoor Products offers a wide variety of services and products related to outdoor recreation and is a perfect setting for Pawlowski and Perry. Although no longer affiliated, they are still supportive of the YMCA archery program by loaning out much of their

contractor, both volunteer their time and the fees received are placed back into the non-profit ministry. Each lesson lasts about an hour with five minutes devoted to a Biblical devotion. The ministry is a non-threatening way to teach Biblical principles to youth through speech and by example.

The First Baptist Church of Durant has also joined forces with TSSM offering a part of their 15 acres that will be the home to an outdoor archery range with 3D animal targets.

Durant’s pastor, Kevin Wynne commented, “Dennis has come up an innovative way to introduce people to the great sport of archery and outdoor sports but it is also a great way to introduce a particular target group of people to the Gospel that may not be open to other conventional methods in the church. We are excited to be a part of the Trinity Special Sportsman’s Ministry.”

TSSM has recently purchased a new curriculum called Centerpoint that will make TSSM stronger in the ministry area. They hope to implement this curriculum in their clinics, camps, and wild game cookouts.

Pawlowski’s dreams for TSSM are not limited to archery but will also include camping, fishing, hunting and other related outdoor sportsmen activities. Recently an 1800-acre ranch in Polk City was made available that will host turkey, hog, and deer hunts in the near future.

For further information concerning TSSM, please contact Dennis at (813) 389-3678 or Mike at (813) 477-5112 or through their website at www.trinityspecialsportsman.org.

equipment during the YMCA’s summer camps.

TSSM’s clinics are inexpensive at $20 for an eight-week course. Pawlowski, a fifteen-year police officer with the Plant City Police Department, and Perry, an electrical

sPorts » arChery

trinity sPeCial sPortsMan Ministry reaChes out to youth throuGh arChery

sTudenTs aT archery clInIc sIze up The TargeT Photo by Joe Bowles

written by: joe Bowles

(l To r) naThan pawlawskI, MIke perry (InsTrucTor), Maxwell Beverly, dennIs pawlawskI (InsTrucTor), and noel pawlawskI. Photo by Joe Bowles

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 83

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juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com84

aManda Byars If you spend a few minutes talking to

recent Plant City High School graduate Amanda Byars, you would get the

impression that she is more than ready to move on with her life. And why not? She has done just about everything a high school student could do, and she has done it well.

Byars, the daughter of Dave and Pam Byars, is preparing to go to Tallahassee and follow in the footsteps of her parents

and older brother, David, and become a Seminole, much to the dismay of many of her close friends who are headed to Gainesville.

“I’m excited about going to Florida State. Everyone in my family went to FSU, my dad, my mom, my older brother, and now me. Plus, the campus in beautiful and I just love the atmosphere. I am sad about leaving my friends but I’m looking forward to making new friends,” said Byars.

And there is no doubt that she will. Amanda was a three-sport athlete in high school and she used her participation in sports as a vehicle to meet new people and to develop friendships.

“Being able to play a diversity of sports enabled me to meet so many people and it has made also me a more well-rounded person,” said Byars as she reflected over the past four years.

Amanda’s first love was swimming. She started to swim competitively at the age of seven with the Walden Lake Swim Club. She took a break, however, from competition at the age of thirteen and did not compete again until her senior year in high school. This year she swam the 100-meter backstroke, the 100-meter freestyle, and was a member of the Raiders’

4 X 100-medley relay team.

She was also a four-year member of the Raiders Flag football team that developed over the past several years into one of the elite high school programs in Florida. As an offensive guard and a linebacker, Byars helped Plant City to district and regional championships in both her sophomore and junior years. The Raiders took second place at the state championships in 2008 and a third place finish in 2009

But that’s not all. She has also been a cheerleader all four years. She was selected to the varsity squad as a freshman, which is a rare accomplishment. In her junior year, Plant City High School won the Western Conference cheer competition. The Raiders outscored 23 other schools to take their first title in school history.

Amanda has also found time to involve herself in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the Civinettes, the Best Buddies program, and the National Honor Society. She graduated with a 3.5 GPA (5.6- weighted). She was also recognized this year by the NFL Retired Players Association as a Hillsborough County Scholar Athlete.

When asked to comment on his daughter, Dave proudly said, “Amanda is a

wonderful young lady. We are very proud of her. She’s a good student and a good athlete. She is dedicated to everything that she does.”

At FSU, Amanda plans to major in environmental science with hopes of becoming a marine biologist. In the mean time, she is working at the YMCA as a lifeguard until August when she moves on… meeting new people… making new friends.

sPorts » athlete of the Month

written by: joe Bowles

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“i’m excited about going to florida state. everyone in my family went to fsu, my dad, my mom, my older brother,

and now me. Plus, the campus in beautiful and i just love the atmosphere. i am sad about leaving my friends but i’m

looking forward to making new friends”

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 85

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juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com86

BaseBall teaM of the Month

Murphy USA got off to a good start going six games deep into the season before encountering

their first loss. They finished the year in the same fashion capturing the year-end city tournament after taking the season title with an 8-2-1 record in Plant City Little League’s Juniors Division (13-15 year-olds). Their effort qualifies them to participate in the District 4 Tournament of Champions that pits the best team from each Little League park against other league champions.

When the Juniors Division was restructured this year, it meant that every player including previous players would be placed back into the preseason draft. The news, at first was unsettling to Murphy USA’s head coach Kevin Wynne, so he developed a philosophy entering the draft process that hinged on selecting plenty of pitchers and relying on base path speed to fill out his roster. That philosophy proved beneficial coming down the stretch and was instrumental in producing two victories in the city tournament.

“The key to our success this year was the depth of our pitching staff and our speed on the bases. During the season, we were able to place seven different players on the mound and offensively we took bases when we could. We swiped seven bases in the championship game including a steal of third base,” reported Wynne.

Wynne, and assistant coaches Stephen Falkenstein and Dave Townsend juggled lineups all season utilizing Kyle and Kip Wynne, Juan and Elber Mendoza, Cam Townsend, Tyler Barnett, and Kristian Bueno on the mound. Clayton Fultz, Jadd Christianson, Stephen Falkenstein, and Jason Wyladika rounded out the eleven-

man roster. Juan Mendoza acted as the team’s leader, becoming the ace of their pitching staff, as well as their leader at the plate, belting two homers in the porocess.

“These boys had character as well as talent. In the beginning of the year, I told the parents and the players that more than building a winning team, we were concerned about building character among these young men,” Wynne stated.

Because of their first place regular season finish, Murphy USA was awarded the top seed in the city tournament and drew a bye in the first round. The semifinals played on June 23, pitted Wynne and his team against Stylgras Landscaping which delivered one of Murphy USA two losses earlier in the season.

Murphy USA spotted Stylgras Landscaping four runs in the first inning and spent the rest of the contest battling back to finally take a lead that they held onto for an 11-7 victory that put them in the championship game. Kyle Wynne pitched six innings for the victory and Elber Mendoza went 4-4 with two RBI’s.

Meanwhile, Florida Insurance Center, a winner of only one game all season, played near flawlessly in their semifinal contest and was able to knock off the second seeded team giving them the honor of meeting Murphy USA in the finals.

The following evening, Murphy USA was able to capture the championship trophy in an 8-2 victory. Juan Mendoza knocked in three runs with a triple and picked up the win. He was aided by Stephen Falkenstein’s stellar play at second base that accounted for seven of the teams assists including a double play. Kip Wynne contributed going 3-3 at the plate with a double.

sPorts » baseball teaM of the Month

written by: joe Bowles

2418 James l. redman Pkwy.,Plant City, Fl(813) 757-0300

Murphy usa junIor dIvIsIon chaMpIons Left to Right:(Top) Juan Mendoza, Tyler Barnett, Kyle Wynne, Clayton Fultz, Kip Wynne, Cam Townsend (Bottom) Jadd Christianson, Elber Mendoza, Kristian Bueno, Stephen Falkenstein

Not Pictured: Jason Wyladika. Photo courtesy of Stephen Falkenstein

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 87

3 MONTHSPECIAL

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juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com88

Fitness MattersexPert answers to your health and wellness questions

There is no question that well formulated nutritional supplements matched to your specific needs can

substantially improve the quality of your life. Today there are many companies and products on the market and it can be very confusing. Supplements can also be very expensive; the nutrition supplement industry is a $25 billion business. How can you choose what is right for you? How can you determine which supplement is a quality product and processed with health in mind? Your best bet is to consult an expert.

Registered Pharmacist Dave Foreman is the Herbal Pharmacist. Dave’s stated mission is ‘to educate as many people as possible about the benefits of natural health and healing’. This includes the 4 pillars of good health-Diet, Exercise, Mental Health & Supplements. In the Tampa Bay area Dave can be heard on the radio on 1250 WHNZ from 12:00 – 1:00 PM.

Dave Foreman will be holding a live seminar sponsored by Anytime Fitness Plant City on July 20, 2010 from 6:30 to 8:00 PM. The seminar will be held at Anytime Fitness 2402 James L Redman Pkwy is open to the public. The event is free of charge but space is limited so Anytime Fitness has asked that you call (813) 567-1057 to register for the event.

Having attended Mr. Foreman’s previous seminars I know you will come away with a wealth of information you can put to immediate use to take charge of your health.

» question: I would do almost anything to get a nice 6-pack. Can you give me some tips and hints?

» answer: Absolutely! Not everyone has this particular goal, but the ones that do seem to be very passionate about it. First of all, you have to do some serious core work, focusing on the abdominals, obliques and low back area. In doing this, most people make one of two mistakes. The first mistake is working these muscles too many days of the week. Some think you need to do abs almost every day, but you wouldn’t do this for chest, back, and legs, so why would you do it for your abdominals? The other common problem is that people don’t push themselves when doing core work. I’ve seen plenty of people stop their set right when they start to feel the “burn.” Others may only use their bodyweight, never thinking that weights might actually challenge them even more. Remember, the harder you work your abdominals, the less you’ll have to do them—and you’ll get better results. Aside from strength training, the other key components to getting a firm, lean mid-section includes cardiovascular exercise and, of course, proper diet. You should try to do cardio 5-6 days per week, especially if you have some extra flab to lose, and try to follow a well-balanced, calorie-controlled diet. If you have more specific questions, check with your personal trainer for more ideas.

sPorts » fitness

subMitted by: se’a ryan

this month i wanted to make you aware of a special health event that is coming to Plant City.

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foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 89

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PLANT CITY - Ask anyone in Plant City for a good place to eat and, odds are, youʼll be directed to Fred s̓ Market Restaurant or Grandpa Johnson s̓ Barbeque. Even out-of-towners are familiar with these Plant City originals. The Johnson family name has become synonymous with good southern cooking and classic barbeque. But what most people

donʼt know is the story behind the name and who Grandpa Johnson really is.

Ninety years ago, in the little town of Opp, Alabama, Elton Johnson was born on April 28th. As the oldest son among 8 children, he quickly learned the value of hard work. By the time he was 7 or 8, old enough to hold a plow, his

days were spent in the fields with his father. Elton still smiles as he remembers shouting “haw” and “gee” at the mule, and laughs as he remarks that kids today donʼt know what those words mean.

Elton s̓ father was a musical man and he saw to it that every child played an instrument. Sunday afternoons were spent on the front

porch practicing together. This was especially hard for Elton, who – like most young boys – would have rather been run-ning and playing games with his friends. Even so, those Sunday afternoons instilled a strong fam-ily bond in the Johnson clan.

In 1932, at the age of 17, Elton moved south with his family.

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Continued on Page 3“History of

Grandpa Johnsonʼs BBQ”

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Thank you for joining us at Grandpa Johnsonʼs Barbeque, we hope your experience has been enjoyable! Each day we strive to serve the best barbeque in the best way possible. Our sauces and rubs are the product of countless hours of test-ing, tasting, and refining recipes. Our menu items have been carefully selected to give you a true barbeque experience and good southern cook-ing. A few of our items are offered because they are regional favorites - such as strawberry short-cake - others are family recipes, passed down through the generations. We are “smokin ̓proud” of our restaurant, food and service but above all, we are barbeque fans and appreciate any comments you may have. We are glad you stopped by and look forward to seeing you again soon.

They had heard through friends that there were good opportunities in Central Florida. They settled in the Coronet area and worked together picking strawberries to make a living. Over the next few years, Elton spent time at a CCC Camp (Civilian Conservation

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characters hang out in Tampa and get into bi-

zarre scrapes right in our own backyards. This

author is Tim Dorsey, former Tampa Tribune

reporter, and he will be speaking right here in

our own Moody Community Room on May

5th at 7pm.

Tim Dorsey was born in Indiana, moved to

Florida at the age of 1, and grew up in a small

town about an hour north of Miami called

Riviera Beach. He graduated from Auburn

University in 1983 with a B.S. in Transporta-

tion. While at Auburn, he was editor of the

student newspaper, The Plainsman.

From 1983 to 1987, he was a police and courts

reporter for The Alabama Journal, the now-de-

funct evening newspaper in Montgomery. He

joined The Tampa Tribune in 1987 as a gen-

eral assignment reporter. He also worked as a

political reporter in the Tribune s̓ Tallahassee

bureau and a copy desk editor. From 1994 to

1999, he was the Tribune s̓ night metro editor

and night news coordinator. He left the paper

in August 1999 to write full time. He lives in

Tampa with his wife and two daughters. He

is 44.

BETWEENTHE PAGES

Spring 2005Vol. 13 Number 2 Published by the Friends of the Bruton Memorial Library, Inc.

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Here s̓ a trivia question for you. Who is the

Florida mystery writer who has outland-

ish characters that get into bizarre scrapes

to solve a mystery that has to do with some

timely Florida issue? Five years ago, most

people would answer “Carl Hiaasen,” and

that would still be correct today, but now

there is a new author on the scene who is

just as highly regarded. But his outlandish

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Florida Roadkill

Hammerhead Ranch Motel

Orange Crush

Triggerfish Twist

The Stingray Shuffle

Torpedo Juice

Other Florida Mystery Writers All are

available at the Library in a variety of

formats.

Carl HiaasenJames T. Hall

Elmore Leonard

Stuart Woods

Barbara Parker

Edna Buchanan

Les Standiford

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BelongGrow

PLANT CITY CHURCH OF GOD • IT’S MORE ABOUT TRUTH THAN TRADITION

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juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com90

a member of the Raider’s basketball team for the past four years, “Basketball is my life,” said Stephen

McIntyre. The dedication he holds to his coach and team is apparent during each and every game, as he led the Raiders to seventeen wins and only five losses this past season. Finishing #1 in the District, the Raiders demonstrated their commitment to the sport they love and also to McIntyre as the team’s co-captain.

Not only is McIntyre a standout on the basketball court, but also in the classroom. With a 5.3 weighted GPA and 3.7 un-weighted GPA, he is ranked thirty –third in the entire senior class and a member of the National Honor Society. His mother, who also is a teacher at PCHS, is said by McIntyre to have pushed him the hardest in his academic endeavors.“It was always a given that I’d have to get good grades,” said McIntyre. In addition to being an honor graduate, McIntyre was also recently named a Scholar-Athlete for the basketball team as well as a Senior Superlative.

Desiring to play college basketball in the future, McIntyre is looking at several different schools to attend in the fall including Bridgewater College in Virginia, Emory and Henry in Virginia, and USF. He also will acquire a Business degree from whichever school he decides on.

Below is a quote written by McIntyre’s basketball coach at PCHS, Coach Chambers, and highlights the true

character behind this athlete.

“It’s still up for debate whether Stephen McIntyre is the player that I spent the most time yelling at over his three years with me. It can be safely assumed he is in the top 5. He also is close to the top of my favorite all-time players I’ve coached in my ten plus years of roaming the sideline. Please understand that is not a list I’m even comfortable talking about because I’ve loved all of my players for different reasons and in different ways.”

“But Stephen finally put it together when it mattered most and that was his senior season as captain. His work ethic was tremendous both on and off the court. He did a fantastic job of leading the team with his words of encouragement and maintained a positive locker room presence. He became a better player because he put the necessary work into becoming the best guard possible. And that’s all you can ask for as a coach. He will definitely be missed!”

In the coming summer, McIntyre will be a volunteer coach for several basketball camps hosted by the PCHS basketball team. He has volunteered for the past couple of years, and will again be apart of the team’s dedication to younger players. McIntyre hopes that many future stars will come out and be apart of the camps this summer and invites anyone interested to attend during the following dates: June 14-17, July 12-15, and July 26-29.

stePHen MCintyreextra » senior of the Month

“it’s still up for debate whether stephen Mcintyre is the player that i spent the most time yelling at over his three

years with me. it can be safely assumed he is in the top 5. he also is close to the top of my favorite all-time players

i’ve coached in my ten plus years of roaming the sideline. Please understand that is not a list i’m even comfortable

talking about because i’ve loved all of my players for different reasons and in different ways.”

senior of the Month written by: currIe dIckerson

Photo courtesy of Danielle McIntyre

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 91

ElectRandy.comFrom County Commission to US Congress

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com92

it’s neW. it’s nOW. Or is it?

on the one hand, I get it. Media is trying to create a sense of urgency and a sense that the information

we are bringing you is NEW. I take it that the word smiths and the genius consultants have determined using these words will increase ratings and readership. Please tell me there is some empirical data that supports that claim. Maybe they think if we say NOW people won’t get up and go to the bathroom or change the dial. If we say something is NEW people will hang in there through the commercial break because they can’t stand to hear something that’s old.

Take for example the radio stations in our market. There’s a radio station that claims that it’s the NEW (fill in the blank). Problem is, it’s been the NEW for the last four years! And just as soon as you say something is new it’s already old because you’ve just heard or read it. Some would carry that argument to the extreme and claim there is no such thing as NEW. Do these people think we are that dumb that we don’t notice when NEW isn’t new? I even heard a radio guru, whose name will go unmentioned, that a certain large radio chain with many frequencies has a business plan that calls for stations to

change formats every so often just to be able to call them NEW. So are they really new or just kind of new to that frequency on your dial?

It’s like when you go to E-Bay or some other website that rates products by their price. You can’t believe there could be such a price difference until you see the words: like NEW. Today, on the internet, like NEW can mean refurbished, which translates into something was wrong with the item but we fixed it and it’s just like NEW. There’s that word again.

Now, let’s talk about NOW meaning: at this exact moment… not the NOW that means I’m taking a breath or “here’s what’s coming up next”. I don’t remember when we started using that phrase in news just that all of us did. So, nearly every newscast or radio show on planet earth tends to start with the phrase:….. begins NOW! I guess we are injecting a sense of urgency in what we are talking about. Still, if we are here every day at the same time, as dependable as the summer heat in Florida, why do we even need to say NOW?

Years ago, when I worked in St. Louis I asked a big shot at AnheuserBusch why they decided to use the words Lite Beer when the actual calorie count on the product was, at that time, only about 5 percent less than normal beer. It was simple. Listeners could determine in their own minds what Lite meant to them. And their research showed that when folks heard the word Lite they automatically thought of a product that wouldn’t make them fat. They couldn’t come right out and tell folks..”hey, this beer will make your skinny” because drinking any beer will increase your calorie count. So they toss that word out there and let your mind do the rest.

Perhaps that’s what the media is doing right NOW: letting your mind convince you what happens over the next 10, 15 or 20 minutes is so important… if you missing it…. your life will somehow be diminished.

No it won’t . Sure, I want you to watch and read but do it because YOU want to and not because something is NEW or just because it begins…. Right NOW! That’s why this NEW commentary ends…… NOW!

extra » al reuChel

written by: al reuchel

“there’s a radio station that claims that it’s the new (fill

in the blank). Problem is, it’s been the new for the last

four years!”

My article begins…. now! and, it’s new! and just in case you didn’t read it the first time… this commentary is new! so i’m hoping since i’ve used the two magic words in media today that more of you will read this commentary…now!

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 93

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com94

laByrintH in litHia walkinG an anCient way

The occasion – one evening in late June - was the closing session of my regular Wednesday men’s small group

Bible study. We’ve been talking about the spiritual disciplines of prayer and meditation, and it made perfect sense for the group to wind up for the summer on a practical note.

So we took a field trip to Camp CedarKirk

truly ancient. Praying the labyrinth is a discipline that’s been followed by faithful followers of The Jesus Way for centuries, each participant walking the same path via an ancient pattern older than the Cathedrals of Medieval Europe.

» Providence:Interestingly, we didn’t know about the

So we decided to put our conversation into practice. We had confidence in Shelby, but we weren’t prepared for the well thought out, professional job she had accomplished.

The expansive labyrinth, modeled after the classic pattern at Chartres Cathedral (France), is laid out in a quiet, wooded glade. The carefully measured path is delineated with seashells. Solid wooden

posts mark the prayer stations, and each one is topped with a different aspect of the Presbyterian Cross.

Shelby, in classic Girl Scout fashion, also prepared a detailed leaflet complete with instructions, scripture references, and ahistory of the labyrinth as a discipline in the chronicle of the practice of faith.

» experience and observation:We set the time aside as a deliberate worship and meditation experience; half an hour with absolutely no talking. My instructions were simple: read the material, pray, and then enter the labyrinthwhen my friends felt they were ready.

My experience was prayerful, and I appreciated the way the deliberatewalk drew me into the presence of the Eternal. I also watched my group closely as they moved purposefully along the path.

The men entered one at a time, suppressing the impulse to chat, makeobservations, or joke. Little by little, imperceptibly at first, a palpable sense of spiritual gravitas settled on the scene. Without exception, and quite simply, God showed up.

» debrief:Afterwards, we debriefed. We each acknowledged that the thirty minutesit took to transcribe the 2,000 ft. path was not enough time, and that the labyrinth should - ideally - be walked alone.

However, it was also a powerful experience of spiritual unity. We were all affected by the “crunch, crunch, crunch” of common footfall, the listening in on a cumulative journey. Then, further in, I noted a point at which each man was walking in a different direction - yet all headed the same way on the same path.

As I walked, I picked up a shell for each man, holding it in one hand as I prayed for him by name (Gary, Eric, Gerard, Steve…), then pocketing the token when I chose another. I passed out the shells andtold them what I had done.

There is real power in deliberately practiced spiritual discipline. I am, like many of you, on a life-long spiritual journey, and I value the way experiences like the labyrinth at Camp CedarKirk provide insight and encouragement along the way.

I pray that my friends continue to walk, one tentative footfall at a time - crunch, crunch, crunch - through the hot summer months. And I pray that each one of us walk, always, in the company of Jesus.

in Lithia, where we walked a labyrinth. What better way to break in a new space dedicated to meditation and prayer than an inaugural run by a dozen men from First Presbyterian Church of Brandon?

The labyrinth may have been newly renovated, but the spiritual practice is

CedarKirk labyrinth when we started our six-week study. How providential that one of our own young people, 18-year-old Shelby Dale, had chosen to restore the overgrown site as her Girl Scout service project. She was completing construction while my men’s group was talking about prayer and meditation!

extra » derek Maul

written by: derek Maul

“My experience was prayerful, and i appreciated the way the deliberate walk drew me into the presence of the eternal”

“Crunch, crunch, crunch.” it’s the sound eleven pairs of feet make when they walk on a bed of seashells, moving purposefully along a well-worn spiritual path.”

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 95

Sept 15 2010

CLEARANCE EVENT50% OFF EYEGLASSES

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com96

nOtiCe tO CriMinal GanGs! stay out of Plant City.

psst! The word on the street is that Plant City Police are not fooling around when it comes to dealing with

gangs that have become such a scourge across America. Word has spread rapidly that local police are now using a legal maneuver that has really put the clamps on street gangs.

We’re not writing about gang graffiti that is spray painted on walls around Hillsborough County, usually by young gang wannabees, some as young as 8 years of age. This is about hardened criminals who would just as soon put a bullet or knife into a person than look at them.

In an exclusive interview with FOCUS Magazine, Plant City Police Chief Bill McDaniel has proudly revealed that his force has recently concluded an operation that has broken a violent gang which had been conducting a litany of crimes, at least two murders, other shootings and robberies, especially aimed at local Hispanics.

Using two names, The West Side Gang or The Black Mob, these thugs often carried out their crimes in broad daylight, even walking into a person’s back yard and robbing them as they tried to relax at

home. The reason for Hispanics as victims is that many of them have a fear of police, because of crooked law enforcement in countries from which they migrated and they rarely report the crimes. Also, migrant workers tend to carry a lot of cash, possibly because they are undocumented and cannot open a bank account here. “They even put a gun to one man’s head and pulled the trigger. For some reason the gun did not go off ”, said the Chief.

Other than the homicides, the other crimes often resulted in light sentences and the gang members were back in society in as little as 6 months or even received probation. It was like a vacation for most of them.

Chief McDaniel and his officers team up with the Attorney General’s office and came up with a plan that has actually been on the law books for years. It’s called the RICO Act, short for Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act, passed by Congress in 1970 to help destroy the Mafia. The law was used to round-up ten members of The Black Mob, who were charged with being members of a criminal gang. They were not charged with a specific crime, simply being members of a criminal conspiracy. It has worked and one member

was sent away for 20 years, another for 15, others for 10 years and on down the line.

Chief McDaniel says the general public does not know about this crime prevention program, “but it has had a big impact on the street and gangs are definitely aware of this approach by Plant City”. As a result street crime in Plant City “has dropped off significantly, almost overnight”, says the Chief.

» illegal drugs“If you know where to go and who to see, you can probably get what you want” says Chief Bill McDaniel. “However, it’s not the OPEN-AIR SUPERMARKET that it once was. Does it go on? Absolutely.” It’s an everyday effort to stop illegal drugs in any police force and Plant City is no exception. Methamphetamine or Meth is the major drug of choice these days and it used to be manufactured in local orange groves, where the distinct cooking smell would not be noticed. The Chief says because Meth is cheap, “a lot more people are dealing it”. It’s a non-stop enforcement issue.

» traffic ticketsIf you have never received a traffic ticket, you either don’t drive, or you’re one heck of a good driver. No matter what people might say, “Traffic Tickets are not

a revenue scheme for Plant City”, says Chief McDaniel. He went onto to say that he encourages officers to issue tickets, especially for seatbelt and child safety seat infractions, “but never once have I said it’s for revenue”. Traffic tickets are issued for the safety of the community and to reduce accidents and save lives.

» the internetFew people know that Police Chief Bill McDaniel is also Head of Information Technology (IT) for the City of Plant City. He knows computers and says “Social Networking is fun, but people have to be careful with what’s out there”. For example,

he asks how many people read the terms of accessing a program, or simply click “I Accept”. “I’ve learned that one should at least read the Privacy part of a contract”, says the Chief who tells the story of a game company which put a humorous term into the contract that states the user agrees to ‘sell their soul to the Devil’. Hundreds of thousands clicked “I accept”.

Chief McDaniel advises people to use reputable companies when making purchases, agreeing that “PAY PAL” is a good system to use. He also tells parents to make sure they know what their children are doing on the Internet, to avoid child predators. Plant City has an officer who works Internet crimes on a regular basis.

» summing-upChief McDaniel says the Plant City Police Department is in “excellent shape”. There’s a full complement of staff and there is no longer the case of many officers joining the force to get experience, only to later leave for greener pastures. The pay scale has been improved to deal with that matter.

The Budget is tight but Chief McDaniel is constantly scouring federal and state government departments for grant money. He found one that pays the salary and benefits for 3 officers for 3 years and recently another for $27,000 to buy new radio equipment. Much of it comes from the Department of Justice. Congressional

Representative Gus Bilirakis was instrumental in getting two congressional appropriations, one for digital cameras and the second for a mobile command post.

Pretty soon Plant City will have four patrol cars with special cameras that will quickly scan license plates and in milliseconds alert the officer if the vehicle is stolen or involved in an outstanding crime. Also in the coming weeks, our police force will have a Mobile Command Center to deal with the ever improving sophistication of criminals.

The police motto of “To Serve and Protect” certainly applies to the Plant City Police Department.

extra » ken lawrenCe

subMitted by: ken lawrence

“they even put a gun to one man’s head and pulled the trigger. for some reason the gun did not go off”

Editor’s Note: This Interview was conducted before the terrible police killings in Tampa.

pc polIce dIscussIng polIcy changes l-r Capt Steve Singletary, Chief Bill McDaniel, Capt John Borders. Photo by Ken Lawrence

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 97

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sMOkin’ JOe’s bbq & Grill

In Lithia, Smokin’ Joe’s BBQ & Grill gathers teenagers and adults for some mouth watering pork, ribs, turkey, and

so much more. The owner’s Joe and Starr Shirley established Smokin’ Joe’s three years ago. However, Smokin’ Joe’s use to be combined with Rick’s Custom Meats six years before that, until they were having so much business they had to move the dining next to it. Rick is Joe’s brother, and before Smokin’ Joe’s or Rick’s Custom Meats came about, they worked at Publix. From there they got into the business of meats. “We started in his backyard,” said Joe.

Joe Shirley has not always wanted to open up a BBQ place however he has always loved to BBQ. “I’ve always loved BBQ meat and enjoyed cooking BBQ, but I did not start this business for money. People just enjoyed it and it grew from there,” said Joe.

Smokin’ Joe’s serves some of the most delicious BBQ in the area. The Starr Special, which is pork over fries and come with a sweet tea, is a meal teenagers crave for because of the mouth watering pork

that takes 20 hours to cook. Not only is their food delicious it is affordable. The Starr Special only cost $6.99. Adults also take pleasure in the BBQ as well. A dish adults really enjoy is the Pork Dinner and also the Rib Dinner. The finger licking Rib Dinner consist of ribs, macaroni and cheese, and coleslaw. The Pork Dinner is also an affordable $7.49.

What makes Smokin’ Joe’s unique and different from other BBQ & Grills is the time they put into making their food so tasty. They make all their rubs and sauces themselves. Plus, they do not use BBQ sauce on their meat when cooking it because it changes the quality and taste that is already in the meat. Furthermore, at Smokin’ Joe’s they spend hours upon hours cooking their meat. Not only does the pork take 20 hours to cook but the ribs take eight hours. Basically, Joe and Starr have a 24 hour job. The only day their BBQ grill rest is on Sunday.

Smokin’ Joe’s also has their regular customers as Starr explains, such as the Sheriff department who has became good friends with Joe and them over the years. “If they go to the shooting range they

always come here to eat,” said Starr.

Not only does Joe and Starr prepare food for their business they also cook up the meat for Rick’s Custom Meats. For example, Joe makes the jerky for Rick. At the moment there are 23 different flavors of jerky. The jerky is seasoned well and are big, thick, and hearty, and nothing like store brands.

Also, Smokin’ Joe’s not only serves people there in Lithia, they also cater. They have catered events for Mosaic, weddings, high school football games, other school events for Durant, Newsome, Turkey Creek, etc. Their number to call if you would like an event catered is (813) 737-3010.So come out to Smokin’ Joe’s BBQ & Grill to enjoy some mouth watering, fingering licking BBQ!

entertainMent » dininG review

written by: raven levereTT

joe shIrley and hIs son BBq consTanTly To keep up wIThT he deMands.Photo by Tony Cartagena

aT sMokIn’ joes, The rIB dInner Is a popular Meal aMong The adulTs.Photo by Tony Cartagena

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foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 101

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juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com102

red rOse COnCert series PaCks house

stepping into the Red Rose Inn’s dining room on a weekend concert night can be like stepping back in

time. Mrs. Evelyn Madonia shares her love of music covering decades of classics with a crowd of hundreds of guests each weekend at the Red Rose. Mrs. Madonia schedules weekly live performances with musical groups who perform an array of musical styles ranging from Doo-Wop, Motown, Pop and Las Vegas show tunes.

Performing at the Red Rose Inn and Suites on Friday, June 11th was the group Cover to Cover. The band’s musical performance showcases an array of talent with their tunes covering decades of top hits. In addition, the group performs many genres of music from Jazz to Doo Wop to Motown. Their music covers favorites from the 60’s, 70’s and Disco to 80’s to 90’s to Classical and Pop. All event attendees can relate to at least one

tune, but most can be found singing along to a wide variety of the group’s top numbers.

Cover to Cover band members include Michael D’Aquino, Scott Greenberg, and Susan Falcone. The performers’ facebook biography indicates they are from New York, where they performed theater, and have been friends for more than 20 years. Their diverse musical influences include R&B, Blues, Classical, Disco, Latin, Pop, Country, 80’s and more. The singing trio now resides in Florida and performs regularly at the Red Rose Inn and Suites.

Ralph Allocco and Second Wind (including Mellissa Malone and Tony Johnson) also perform monthly at the Red Rose Inn. They were the opening and closing act for Cover to Cover in June. The group’s Las Vegas style show and adult contemporary music style make them a favorite of patrons who frequently

visit the Red Rose to enjoy Second Wind’s regular appearances.

While enjoying the music from both bands, couples swayed on a packed dance floor, while others were seated at tables sipping beverages, enjoying a five star meal and watching the floor show. In addition to a night out with loved ones and friends, the Red Rose Inn and Suites is a favorite dining experience for special occasion outings like anniversaries, birthdays, graduations and more.

Seated at the head table for the evening were Mrs. Evelyn and Batista Madonia, Sr. enjoying time with friends, Lori Ann Castleman and Ben Taylor from Bright House Networks. Regular patrons of the Red Rose frequent the Madonia’s table to thank them for a perfect evening of dinner and entertainment.

Also enjoying a night with family and friends were Charlotte and Ken Hyatt

from Lakeland who were celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary with their family. Charlotte’s parents, also in attendance, recently celebrated 76 years of marriage. Charlotte and Ken celebrated their last year’s anniversary at the Red Rose and say it is the perfect place to celebrate their special occasion with their loved ones. They are planning to return again.

The Red Rose Inn and Suites is a favorite dining and live musical entertainment destination for hundreds of patrons every weekend. There is no cover charge to attend the weekly concert series. To see the Inn’s upcoming calendar of events go to www.redroseinnandsuites.com. The web site also includes pictures from various events taking place in the Red Rose dining room as well as ballroom activities. The Red Rose Inn and Suites is located at 2011 N. Wheeler Street and can be reached at (813) 752-3141.

entertainMent » red rose

written by: kelleIgh kleIn

cover To cover sIngers Michael D’Aquino, Susan Falcone and Scott Greenberg perform crowd favorite songs. Photo Courtesy of the Red Rose Inn and Suites

ken and charloTTe hyaTT celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary at the Red Rose Inn and Suites. Photo Courtesy of the Red Rose Inn and Suites

“the red rose inn and suites is a favorite dining and live musical entertainment destination for hundreds

of patrons every weekend.”

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 103

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com104

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foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 105

live a liFe tHat Feeds yOur sOul and aChieve your dreaMs

In order to accomplish anything in life one must have both a love for as well as a commitment to their goal or

achievement. In the creation of art both of these aspects are extremely important. Patci Sawyer, a local Plant City artist, has demonstrated that in her art she has both a strong desire and love for her art as well as a commitment to complete her inspirations.

Patci has always been drawn to art and credits her interest at a young age to

her parents who were both creative and encouraging of her expressive endeavors. She remembers as a very young girl pouring through books in search of her favorite artists, discovering them in Millet, Monet, and Bernard who touched her deeply with their use of color and beauty.

At a much later point in her life, after Patci’s kids were grown and sadly her husband’s unexpected death, Patci began to earnestly pursue her interest in art. After exploring the question of what was

is that she loved more than anything else and held her interest more than eating, drinking a glass of water, or answering the phone, the answer to herself was painting. The next day Patci enrolled in a two year art program, which she stated was the best thing she ever did. Through the program Patci was able to delve deep into the world of art and expand herself in ways she had never thought possible. Like most of us, Patci has to balance life and it’s demands, but she has managed to set aside one day a week just for painting.

Recently, Patci has become one of the newest members of Plant City’s Art Lounge Gallery. As an artist she feels like there is nothing better than being around other artists for inspiration and a stimulating environment.

The knowledge that Patci gained through her two year art program combined with her continued desire to learn and create has allowed her the chance to achieve her dreams of painting.

entertainMent » artist of the Month

written by: heaTher davIs

local planT cITy arTIsT, paTcI sawyer, holds one of her Many colorful paInTIngs.Photo by Heahter Davis

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com106

Plant City Calendarof events

entertainMent » event Calendar

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

tHursday, July 15, 2010» Business After Hours Hosted by D.R. Horton at Whispering Woods5:15pm2756 Walden Woods Drive

saturday, July 17, 2010» Strawberry Classic Car Show4:00pm-9:00pmHistoric Downtown Plant CityCar 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 813-754-3707.

tuesday, July 20, 2010» Ribbon Cutting and Open Housefor Premiere Cinema10:30am-12:00pm220 West Alexander Street

» Live Seminarsponsored by Anytime Fitness Plant City6:30pm-8:00pm2402 James L Redmen Pkwy Call 813-597-1057 to register for the event

Wednesday, July 21, 2010» Ribbon Cuttingfor Butler Pest Control10:30amIn Front of the Chamber @ 106 N. Evers St.

tHursday, July 22, 2010» Host Author Tim Dorsey7:00pmBruton Memorial Library

saturday, July 24, 2010» The Annual Youth Fishing Derby7:00amA pond behind the Randy Larson Softball Four-Plex off Gordon Food Service DriveAges 5-15 can participate

MOnday, July 26, 2010» Bike Fest Meeting4:00pmChamber of Commerce - 106 N. Evers St.

» City Commission Meeting7:30pmCity Hall

tHursday, July 29, 2010» Present Magician Cesar Domico10:30amBruton Memorial Library

» Feature Film: Ponyo2:30pmBruton Memorial Library

sunday, auG. 01, 2010» Turkey Creek Stables Speed Show6:00pmTurkey Creek Stables

continued on page 107

foCUS Magazine Plant City juLY 2010 107

entertainMent » event Calendar

MOnday, auG. 02, 2010» Car Show Meeting3:30pmChamber of Commerce

Wednesday, auG. 04, 2010» CPD “Community Programs Division” Meeting12:00pmPlant City Chambers

saturday, auG. 07, 2010» Bike Fest5:00pm-9:00pmHistoric Downtown Plant City

» Yard Sale and Pancake Breakfast at the Evangelical Presbyterian Church7:00am-12:00pm1107 Charlie Griffin Road This event is a fund raiser to help with the Monique Levesque’s medical bills following and extensive organ transplant to combat her Crohn’s disease.

MOnday, auG. 09, 2010» City Commission Meeting7:30pmCity Hall

» Plant City Academy of the Arts Session2103 Mud Lake RoadFor more information on the time call 813-752-4591 ext.232

Wednesday, auG. 11, 2010» Contact Breakfast7:30am-9:00amRed Rose Inn & Suites Ball Room

Friday, auG. 13-saturday, auG. 14, 2010» Patriotic Musical Show: America the Beautiful8:00pm102 N. Collins StLimited seating. If you need more information call Al Cohen at 813-707-0788.

saturday, auG. 14, 2010» Art After Dark8:00pm6:00pm-10:00pm119 E. Reynolds St.This is a social events for anyone interested in the visual arts, and an op-portunity for the community to meet and chat with your local artists. Wine and light refreshments will be served. Tickets can be purchased during the month prior to the drawing be held on the night of the event.

» Local Author Book Signing11:00am-2:00pmTruth Christian Store & Event CenterAlong with the book signing Deborah Coty will be conducting a writing seminar “So You Want to be a Writer”. Contact the store for details and regis-tration the cost is $10 per person.

tHursday, auG. 15, 2010» Ladies Night Out Seasonal and Skin Allergies Demystified6:00pm-8:00pmAdministrative Conference Room at South Florida Baptist Hospital

continued from page 106Calendarof events

juLY 2010 thefocusmagazine.com108

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