FOCUS Plant City 11-01

Bartow863.533.0777

1475 W. Main St.www.BartowChevrolet.com

Zephyrhills813.782.1538

36822 State Road 54www.SparkmanChevrolet.com

Bartow863.533.0777


ZephyrhillsZephyrhills813.782.1538


The ‘Sparkman Advantage’ is something we have implemented in both stores. It includes lubrication services, oil changes, oil fi lter changes and tire rotations

for a period of two years on all new vehicles purchased at either store.

ADVANTAGEWe are growing! We now have two locations that allow us access to one huge inventory.

We are open 6 days a week for sales, service and parts.

We have an on-line service appointment system. No need to call the dealership, just go to www.bartowchevrolet.com.

We guarantee a service appointment within one business day of your request. You always have priority scheduling.

We offer free shuttle service. Valet vehicle pick up and delivery is available on an appointment basis.

We offer complimentary “Pit Stop” services. We will check your vehicle fl uid levels and air the tires with no appointment and in less than fi ve minutes as often as you wish.

We will meet and greet every service guest within 30 seconds of their arrival.

We will wash, vacuum, clean the windows and dress the tires on every service visit. We want your vehicle to look like the day you bought it!

We provide each purchasing customer the cell phone of the general manager. We have our arms around our customers 24 hours a day and 7 days a

week.

We offer a 3 day money back guarantee on every vehicle purchase.

We positively will not be undersold

SPARKMAN AUTOMOTIVE GROUP WELCOMES

TO OUR SALES TEAM

DAVY MILES

Bartow863.533.0777


Zephyrhills813.782.1538


Bartow863.533.0777


ZephyrhillsZephyrhills813.782.1538


The ‘Sparkman Advantage’ is something we have implemented in both stores. It includes lubrication services, oil changes, oil fi lter changes and tire rotations

for a period of two years on all new vehicles purchased at either store.

ADVANTAGEWe are growing! We now have two locations that allow us access to one huge inventory.

We are open 6 days a week for sales, service and parts.

We have an on-line service appointment system. No need to call the dealership, just go to www.bartowchevrolet.com.

We guarantee a service appointment within one business day of your request. You always have priority scheduling.

We offer free shuttle service. Valet vehicle pick up and delivery is available on an appointment basis.

We offer complimentary “Pit Stop” services. We will check your vehicle fl uid levels and air the tires with no appointment and in less than fi ve minutes as often as you wish.

We will meet and greet every service guest within 30 seconds of their arrival.

We will wash, vacuum, clean the windows and dress the tires on every service visit. We want your vehicle to look like the day you bought it!

We provide each purchasing customer the cell phone of the general manager. We have our arms around our customers 24 hours a day and 7 days a

week.

We offer a 3 day money back guarantee on every vehicle purchase.

We positively will not be undersold

SPARKMAN AUTOMOTIVE GROUP WELCOMES

TO OUR SALES TEAM

DAVY MILES

JANUARY 2012 focusplantcity.com4

BEST BUFFET IN PLANT CITY

Lunch $6.99Dinner $9.99

Over 100 itemsSalads • DessertsSteak • Seafood& Much More Plant City Homestyle Buffet

Steak & Seafood1914 James Redman Pkwy • 813-754-4488

Hours: Sun.-Thurs. 11a.m. - 8:30p.m. • Fri & Sat 11am - 9pm

SeniorsFREEDRINK!

FOCUS MAGAZINE PLANT CITY JANUARY 2012 5


TABLE OF CONTENTSVolume 11 Issue 1 • January 2012

focusplantcity.com

16-43 LOCALIn addition to photos of the Strawberry Festival Queen contestants and the Junior Royalty winners, this month you’ll enjoy stories about our first New Year’s baby and other young people doing great things with their energy. Get to know Chris Welbon, too!

102 DINING PROFILEDairy Queen has served up ice cream specialties, refreshing drinks, and Cuban sandwiches to locals for more than 40 years. Even with your New Year’s resolutions to cut back, everyone should treat themselves to DQ at least once a month.

55 BUSINESS PROFILEThe Community Care Center is very proud of the recent renovations to the rehabilitative therapy areas so clients can be even more comfortable as they work their way back to wellness.

46-53 FEATUREFocus celebrates its 10th anniversary this month and we want readers to enjoy the photo journey. Ten years of great stories and wonderful people. Learn also how you can help the United Food Bank by attending both the Readers’ Choice Awards event and the Annual Celebrity Chef’s Dinner.

FOCUSPLANTCITY.COMFull digital version of the current and past magazines

Extended features, interviews, dining profiles and business profiles with extra content

Community news updates

50

46

3424

59 - FINANCE COLUMN62 - HOME GUIDE64 - REAL ESTATE66 - WALDEN LAKE COLUMN68 - MORTGAGE COLUMN76 - SPORTS78 - ATHLETE OF THE MONTH81 - BASEBALL TEAM OF THE MONTH88 - AL REUCHEL COLUMN

90 - DEREK MAUL92 - ARTIST OF THE MONTH94 - AUTO REVIEW100 - RED ROSE ENTERTAINMENT103 - DINING GUIDE106 - CLASSIFIEDS108 - EVENT CALENDAR109 - CROSSWORD

102


http://clearbracesplantcity.com


Orthodontist Howard L. Howell,DDS

Practice Limited to Children

Steven R. Slavkin,DDS

Practice Limited to Children

B. Gene Whitehead, DMD

at

Orthodontic problems can typically be treated as easily for adults as children. We love creating beautiful smiles, for all the benefits it can bring. So come discover your smile potential with a smile potential with a complimentary exam and consultation!

Pediatric Dentistry | Adult & Pediatric Orthodontics

FREE ConsultationsBraces and Invisalign

for Children and AdultsFinancing Available

Most Insurance Accepted.Se Habla Español

New Patient Special!Free Pre Treatment Records Over $200 Value Insurance Filed First D8066

(exp. 2/14/12)

2005 Thonotosassa Rd. Plant City, FL. 33563 813-752-3555 • Fax 813-752-9274

www.bayareasmilesfl.com

http://bayareasmiles.com


Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information.

Floyd Publications, Inc. 702 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd.Plant City, FL 33563

Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990

www.focusplantcity.com

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

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

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

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

Publisher Mike [email protected]

Office Manager Dede [email protected]

Copy Editor Cheryl [email protected]

Credit Manager Angel [email protected]

Sales Julie Hasting | Kelleigh Klein | Aldo Trevino

Production Anthony SassanoTony Cartagena

FOCUSTV Shana Mitchell

Distribution Byron SpradlinBelva DeVane

Photographers Kendra Conner

Staff Writers Cheryl JohnstonBrian West | Joe BowlesDerek Maul | Kelleigh Klein Heather Davis

Contributors Al Ruechel | Gil Gott Bruce Rodwell | Jo-An Lusk | Nate Davis

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

Happy New Year!

2012 is a time for new beginnings - a time for building on the successes of 2011 and plan-

ning for the good changes that will come in the year now upon us. We’re wishing yours a great start.

Our 10th year as your community magazine is this month and first and most importantly, we say “THANK YOU.” This first issue of 2012 offers a little photographic retrospect on those 10 years. You encouraged us through your quotes about what Focus has meant to you, your family, and your business.

We also feature information about the United Food Bank and the upcoming

Celebrity Chef ’s Fundraising Dinner. If you’ve never been to this incredible event, do make plans to come.

Great food, great people, and help for a great cause.

Speaking of planning ahead, don’t miss our local stories and the event calendar. Plant City is one

busy town, and that’s true especially this first quarter with pageants, Strawberry Festival and chari-table fundraisers.

Thanks once again for your continued support of Focus Magazine and its advertisers. Feel free to share your ideas for future stories with us at FocusPlantCity.com or by phoning 813-707-8783.

Our 2012 goal is to connect the community and grow your businesses. Our focus continues to be all “about you.” And we are anticipating and expecting great things!

Prospero Ano to you and yours.

Warmest Regards,Mike and DeDe Floyd

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

(813) 708-1181

www.edwardschrysler.com

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

TOM EDWARDSCHRYSLER DODGE JEEP

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Welcome To

RRR FARMRRR FARM813-982-1172 7449 Loghouse Rd,

Plant City, FL

GIVE YOUR LOVED ONE THE GIFT OF RIDING LESSONS FOR VALENTINES

DAY!

Call us now for your Gift Certifi cates.

$10000RRR Farm

7449 Loghouse Rd, Plant City, FL • 813-982-1172

WE CATER TO YOUR NEEDS! Special pricing available.

Call us for your private parties while we still have availability!

Have us cater your next

Birthday Party or Barn Party

We provide Intimate settings that you will not get anywhere else.

Valentines Engagements can become an Elegant Country Wedding Here

RRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARM

4 Lessons

for

Welcome To

RRR FARMRRR FARM813-982-1172 7449 Loghouse Rd,

Plant City, FL

GIVE YOUR LOVED ONE THE GIFT OF RIDING LESSONS FOR VALENTINES

DAY!

Call us now for your Gift Certifi cates.

$10000RRR Farm

7449 Loghouse Rd, Plant City, FL • 813-982-1172

WE CATER TO YOUR NEEDS! Special pricing available.

Call us for your private parties while we still have availability!

Have us cater your next

Birthday Party or Barn Party

We provide Intimate settings that you will not get anywhere else.

Valentines Engagements can become an Elegant Country Wedding Here

RRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARMRRR FARM

4 Lessons

for


Talkof the

Town

Plant City businessman Earl Burkett was named as the new President of the Kiwanis Club of Plant City on October 5. Burkett moved to Florida in 2006 to take on the responsibilities of agency president for Strong Tower Insurance, Inc. which he now owns. A former member of the Kiwanis Club of Valdosta, Georgia for three years and Columbus, Georgia for three-and-a-half years, Burkett joined the Plant City chapter in 2009. “The Kiwanis Club of Plant City was able to impact the lives of 7,946 children last year alone,” he commented. “I’m looking forward to having even more opportunities this year.” Burkett resides in Lakeland with his wife of 30 years, Carolyn, and their children, Caitlin and Jacob.

November 19, 2011 10AM to 5PMPlant City will play host to the Most Spectacular BBQ Contest Ever at the Randy Larson Softball Four-Plex Stadium. Don't miss out on the: Fabulous Food, Live Entertainment, Local Taverns, Great Merchandise and of course - that finger licking good barbecue!

Plant City High School Civinettes participated in the High Heel Hike to benefit Autism. Pictured left to right – BACK: Jennifer Tharrington, Cynthia Tharrington, Virginia Bochy, Taylor Adams, Morgan Moody, Sara Brummer, Amanda Rodenmeyer, Brittany Butler, Crystal Johnson, Denna Lemelin, Samantha Black, Amber Towles, Ashley Hahn.Left to right FRONT: Maddy Keene, Cassidy Wright, Nicole Parmley, Cassidy Dixon, Kelsey Moore, Laura Sarria, Alexis Lindsey, Karaline Hayes

Kamdyn competed in the Harvest Queen competition at the 2011 Hillsborough County Fair and in addition to winning the Queen in her age division, Kamdyn also received Most Photogenic and Best outfit of Choice! Congratulations Kamdyn we are very proud of you.

Submit Your Talk of the Town info to:[email protected]

Even in the Rain these Girls came out to Support AutismPlant City High School Civinettes

Kids are invited to the RED CABOOSE to see SANTA on December 16th and 17th from 2:00 - 6:00 pm. Get a free picture and a treat - FREE ADMISSION - 908 Joe McIntosh Road, Plant City

Thursday, March 1, 2012 3:30 pm The Oak Ridge Boys 7:30 pm Gretchen Wilson Friday, March 2, 2012 3:30 pm The Gatlin Brothers/Crystal Gayle 7:30 pm Demi Lovato Saturday, March 3, 2012 3:30 pm The JaneDear Girls 7:30 pm Air Supply Sunday, March 4, 2012 3:30 pm Jake Owen 7:30 pm Hank Williams, Jr. “Taking Back the Country Tour”

Monday, March 5, 2012 3:30 pm Felix Cavalier’s Rascals 7:30 pm Josh Turner Tuesday, March 6, 2012 3:30 pm Brenda Lee 7:30 pm Vince Gill

Wednesday, March 7, 2012 3:30 pm Lee Greenwood/Louise Mandrell 7:30 pm The Band Perry Thursday, March 8, 20123:30 pm The Charlie Daniels Band 7:30 pm Luke Bryan

Friday, March 9, 2012 3:30 pm Cornell Gunter’s Coasters Bobby Hendrick’s DriftersThe Platters 7:30 pm TobyMac Saturday, March 10, 20123:30 pm Allstar Weekend 7:30 pm Rodney Atkins Sunday, March 11, 2012 3:30 pm Easton Corbin 7:30 pm Reba McEntire

Rich Gloirioso for Supervisor of ElectionsState Representative Rich Glorioso has announced his candidacy for Supervisor of Elections in Hillsborough County and looks for solid support from Plant City voters.

Scout Dinner to be out of this WorldSave the date for the Plant City Friends of Scouting Dinner on February 9, 2012 at the Hillsborough Community College Trinkle Center. In addition to recognizing the new Eagle Scouts and honoring Fred Johnson with the Distinguished Citizen Award, the evening will include special guest speaker Astronaut Winston Scott.

The annual event has opportunities for sponsorship ranging from Eagle at $5,000 to First Class at $250. C.F. Industries is the James E. West Sponsor this year. Scouting is a most worthy cause and deserves our support.

To reserve your seat or a group table, contact Jennifer Thomason for details by phone, 813-244-1415, or via e-mail to [email protected].

Scout Dinner to be out of this World

Rotary Club 3rd Annual Shoe giveaway!On December 15th the Rotary Club of Plant City held their 3rd annual shoe giveaway at the Boys and Girls Club of Plant City. The Rotary club purchased a pair of brand new shoes for every child that attends the Boys and Girls Club. All the shoes were wrapped in Christmas paper by students in the Interact Club at Plant City High School. The gifts were presented to the children along with pizza and sodas by about a dozen members of the Rotary club. “This one event that we sponsor is probably the best ‘feel good’ moment of the year for our Rotarians” said Rotary club President Keith Smith. “To see the look on those kids faces when they open the boxes and see a brand new pair of shoes, some for the first time, it is priceless”.

Pageant begins at 6pmWatch as 31 beautifully, talented, local young ladies vie for the title of the 2012 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen. Evelyn and Batista Madonia Sr. Agricultural Show Center on Strawberry Festival GroundsFor more information call 813.752.9194Tickets can be purchased the night before at the door or the night of.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 28THFlorida Strawberry Festival Queen Pageant


Treat Your Valentine

1505 South Alexander Street Suite 102Plant City, FL 33563813.717.7700

Gift Certificates Available

TrAnquiliTy SpA pACkAGeincludes a european facial,

a 1 hr Swedish massage, Manicure and pedicure.

For A Spa experience spent with the One you love try the

Tranquility Spa package for TWO .

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“THREE FREE” MAKE THE SWITCH INCENTIVE: Void outside FL and where prohibited. Open to legal U.S. residents, 18 years of age and older. Begins 12:00:00 AM ET on 1/2/12; ends 6:00:00 PM ET on 6/29/12. To receive “Make the Switch” incentives of free gift, free checking, and free debit card, visit a CenterState Bank or Valrico State Bank location and open a qualified account. Qualified account is a non-interest bearing account (annual percentage yield – 0%). $50 minimum balance required to obtain free gift, free checking, and free debit card. The “Three Free” incentive is not part of the “Life’s a Breeze Sweepstakes.”

Government-issued photo ID may be required and additional account approval requirements may be imposed; see full details at www.centerstatebank.com Copyright © 2012 CenterState Bank. All rights reserved. Mustang® is a registered trademark of Ford Motor Corporation, which is not a sponsor of or affiliated with this sweepstakes. Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Corporation LLC. Used with permission, Ford Media Archives.

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Plant City businessman Earl Burkett was named as the new President of the Kiwanis Club of Plant City on October 5. Burkett moved to Florida in 2006 to take on the responsibilities of agency president for Strong Tower Insurance, Inc. which he now owns. A former member of the Kiwanis Club of Valdosta, Georgia for three years and Columbus, Georgia for three-and-a-half years, Burkett joined the Plant City chapter in 2009. “The Kiwanis Club of Plant City was able to impact the lives of 7,946 children last year alone,” he commented. “I’m looking forward to having even more opportunities this year.” Burkett resides in Lakeland with his wife of 30 years, Carolyn, and their children, Caitlin and Jacob.

November 19, 2011 10AM to 5PMPlant City will play host to the Most Spectacular BBQ Contest Ever at the Randy Larson Softball Four-Plex Stadium. Don't miss out on the: Fabulous Food, Live Entertainment, Local Taverns, Great Merchandise and of course - that finger licking good barbecue!

Plant City High School Civinettes participated in the High Heel Hike to benefit Autism. Pictured left to right – BACK: Jennifer Tharrington, Cynthia Tharrington, Virginia Bochy, Taylor Adams, Morgan Moody, Sara Brummer, Amanda Rodenmeyer, Brittany Butler, Crystal Johnson, Denna Lemelin, Samantha Black, Amber Towles, Ashley Hahn.Left to right FRONT: Maddy Keene, Cassidy Wright, Nicole Parmley, Cassidy Dixon, Kelsey Moore, Laura Sarria, Alexis Lindsey, Karaline Hayes

Kamdyn competed in the Harvest Queen competition at the 2011 Hillsborough County Fair and in addition to winning the Queen in her age division, Kamdyn also received Most Photogenic and Best outfit of Choice! Congratulations Kamdyn we are very proud of you.

Submit Your Talk of the Town info to:[email protected]

Even in the Rain these Girls came out to Support AutismPlant City High School Civinettes

Kids are invited to the RED CABOOSE to see SANTA on December 16th and 17th from 2:00 - 6:00 pm. Get a free picture and a treat - FREE ADMISSION - 908 Joe McIntosh Road, Plant City

Thursday, March 1, 2012 3:30 pm The Oak Ridge Boys 7:30 pm Gretchen Wilson Friday, March 2, 2012 3:30 pm The Gatlin Brothers/Crystal Gayle 7:30 pm Demi Lovato Saturday, March 3, 2012 3:30 pm The JaneDear Girls 7:30 pm Air Supply Sunday, March 4, 2012 3:30 pm Jake Owen 7:30 pm Hank Williams, Jr. “Taking Back the Country Tour”

Monday, March 5, 2012 3:30 pm Felix Cavalier’s Rascals 7:30 pm Josh Turner Tuesday, March 6, 2012 3:30 pm Brenda Lee 7:30 pm Vince Gill

Wednesday, March 7, 2012 3:30 pm Lee Greenwood/Louise Mandrell 7:30 pm The Band Perry Thursday, March 8, 20123:30 pm The Charlie Daniels Band 7:30 pm Luke Bryan

Friday, March 9, 2012 3:30 pm Cornell Gunter’s Coasters Bobby Hendrick’s DriftersThe Platters 7:30 pm TobyMac Saturday, March 10, 20123:30 pm Allstar Weekend 7:30 pm Rodney Atkins Sunday, March 11, 2012 3:30 pm Easton Corbin 7:30 pm Reba McEntire

Congratulations to the RCA Award Best Server Nominee’sVisit our Facebook page and vote for your Favorite Server

Caitlin Zimmerman - Johnson’s BBQGirogio Vanzulli - Red Rose Dining RoomKayla Wyckoff - ApplebeesMarti Lofstrom - The Whistle StopMike Esposito - Esposito’s Pizza

Voting is still going on! Cast your vote TODAY!

Plant City Council Members Honor Tampa Tribune/Courier ReportersPlant City Council members were pleased recently to honor Tampa Tribune / Courier reporters Dave Nicholson and George Humphrey for the roles they played in bringing community news to readers in eastern Hillsborough County. Nicholson worked with the Tribune / Courier for 22 years and Humphrey was employed for 11 years. Over those years they have covered many a story or a happening here in our town.

Plant City City Council members honored Dave Nicholson for his 22 years of service to the community as a reporter for The Tampa Tribune and Courier. Pictured L-R are Mike Sparkman, Mary Yvette Thomas, Mayor Dan Raulerson, Dave and Amy Nicholson, Rick Lott and Vice Mayor Bill Dodson.

George Humphrey (pictured center with his wife Karen) was also honored by Council members for 11 years of service to the Plant City community through his employment as a reporter for The Tampa Tribune and Courier.


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LOCAL » FOCUS

GOT SHOES? than 500 pairs of shoes. The next step was to find a way to distribute the shoes to those in need.

Plant City’s First Baptist Church agreed to help on Saturday morning, December 10, 2011. So Hayes and her grandmother, Ola Jean Hardee, filled their vehicles with soles and made a delivery to the FBC downtown. Under the direction of Kim Shouse and Paige Zeff, the shoes were sold for $1.00 per pair and the proceeds will be used to stock the food pantry and for other outreach needs in the community. The shoes that were not purchased are being sent to Haiti.

When the church realized that some purchasing shoes might also need

The Civinettes at Plant City High School had their mind on soles last month - shoe soles, that is. The club

invited the entire student body to get involved, too. And they did.

Each year the club stays active in various community service events and projects, under the sponsorship of Sherrie Mueller, College and Career Counselor and JoBeth Newsome, English teacher. The club is also expected to design some original plans for outreach, and thus, the sole project.

Haley Hayes, the Civinettes president, wanted a project in which everyone could participate. When she looked in her own closet and realized how many pairs of shoes she owned (that she didn’t

wear often enough), she decided that a Community Shoe Drive would be fun and helpful.

So she created an announcement for the Raiders morning show, hung signs in the school halls, and passed out fliers to the PCHS students and staff. Local Civitan members were also invited to participate.

The request was simple - bring one or more pairs of clean shoes, any style, any size, in good condition. Part of the thought process was that some folks who would ultimately wear the shoes might need a nice pair to wear on job interviews or to church.

The Raiders, teachers and the 100+ Civinettes responded to the tune of more

clothes, they opened their clothes closet to help the cause.

Hayes couldn’t have been more pleased with the results. Of her PCHS community, she said, “It felt good to know that we could all do something to help, and many donated more than one pair. It was a good lesson to see how with something so simple, we could make a difference in our little corner of the world.”

PCHS CIVINETTES HAVE SOLE(S) IN COMMUNITY SHOE DRIVE WRITTEN BY: CHERYL JOHNSTON | PHOTOS BY: KELLEIGH KLEIN

The generosity of Plant City High School Students at the request of Civinettes for gently worn or new shoes resulted in blessings at Plant City’s First Baptist Church for attendees of the shoe sale.

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LOCAL » FOCUS

LOCAL MUSICIAN ANNA GAVIN

Gavin’s exciting plans for 2012 and ambitious goals for the future include two music videos, a national tour and a second album.

Plant City is known for supporting its own local talent and it sounds like Gavin will

To Anna Gavin, music is life.

The vocalist grew up around music and many family members share in this talent. Gavin has performed professionally for more than seven years, beginning at age 18. She is often compared to Paramore and Alanis Morissette.

Gavin believes that music is all about being honest with yourself and that life experiences make for the greatest songs. “Writing comes easily for me. Every song is something I went through or experienced. I write so that hopefully somebody can relate to it”, explained Gavin. Some of her musical inspirations

include Ani Difranco, Incubus, and Johnny Cash.

Her debut album “Detour”, produced by Matt Walker, is scheduled for release in late February or early March. Her first music video, produced by another local, Jesse Larson, will release soon after.

She will perform January 21 at the Corner Store during a free show featuring fellow local artist Gary Osborne.

Two songs from her upcoming album are available for download from http://reverbnation.com/annagavin, where updates are tour information is also available.

move from the local scene to the big time in a short time. Let’s come out and show her the hometown spirit and wish her well as her career continues its climb.

TO RELEASE DEBUT ALBUM “DETOUR

WRITTEN BY: TARA PARKER | PHOTO BY: ANNA GAVIN

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LOCAL » FOCUS

THE HASTING GANGWALKSFOR NEPHCURE

assistance to help Darby. This family is determined to beat this disease. They realize they have many battles ahead, but are ready to face it head on. Possible battles could be renal failure with possible dialysis and transplant. As for now, Darby’s steroid medicine is doing the trick and she has a few limitations in physical activity and in her diet.

This strong teenager is already planning her trip to Camp Boggy Creek, a camp for children with life threatening illnesses.

She hopes to become a counselor one day to help others deal with the realities of the disease. Her smiling face and upbeat personality are evidence that Darby doesn‘t let this health issue bring her down. She has proven to be one of the strongest teenagers around.

If you would like to help this family in their ongoing battle by donating to the Darby Hasting Fund, please send your donations to 3807 Young Road, Plant City, Fl, 33565, in care of Gloria Hasting.

On Saturday, December 10th, many gathered together for the NephCure Tampa Bay walk. A Plant City

group called “The Hasting Gang,” was comprised of 39 walkers representing Darby Hasting, 15, a Durant High School student.

Darby was diagnosed last June with FSGS (Focal Segmental Glomeruloscleros), a rare disease that attacks the kidney’s filtering system and causes serious scarring. The effect is that protein leaks into the urine instead of staying in the blood.

Darby’s group raised the most money in the walk, contributing to the $16,000 grand total. This walk raised money for a cure and as well will help families communicate their frustrations and successes to help each other.

FSGS is one of the causes of a serious condition known as Nephrotic Syndrome. There is no known cure for FSGS, but steroids are used to control the proteinuria. Darby’s mom, Gloria Hasting, was told that there may be a point where the steroids will no longer work. She currently has monthly appointments with her Nephrologist (specialist in kidneys) in Tampa.

Darby’s parents plan to meet with doctors from different parts of the globe for the most updated strategies for further Gloria, Cassidy, Darby and Dwight Hasting

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WRITTEN BY: DEANA GARRISON | PHOTO BY JULIE HASTING

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LOCAL » FOCUS

SANTA SLED FESTIVAL BLACK COMMUNITY FESTIVAL

Dorothy Smith explained the ultimate purpose of the Santa Sled Festival. “We do it for the children. We had a wonderful time and lots to give this year - even more than in years past. When we see their excitement, we realize all that hard work that begins in February to raise money is so worth it. We want to always help people in need, especially anything that helps children, and we don’t want to turn any away.”

To get involved or sponsor next year’s event, please call Sharon Moody, President of Plant City Black Heritage at (813) 453-7134.

age and another for a drawing in which winners could receive as follows: Ages 6-10 could win a bike; ages 4-5 could win a scooter; ages 3-4 could win a table and chair set; and ages 1-2 could win a rocking horse. Additionally, clothing, shoes, teddy bears, and cookies were available for folks to take home.

During the event, attendees enjoyed an all American lunch of hotdogs, hamburgers, corndogs, sausages, sliced cake, chips and flavored sip-up drinks - free food and all they could eat for four hours. Additionally, clothing and shoes were available for folks to take home.

Coni Williams from the University of South Florida presented an educational talk on health issues such as cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Student volunteers from the Plant City High School Key Club assisted with the activities and service to attendees.

Santa’s arrival was the highlight of the event, but they also especially enjoyed the horseback rides and the candy Mr. Claus (Glenn Morgan of Arcadia) gave to each child. Obviously, the photo op moments were plentiful.

Event sponsors included (in alphabetical

order): Aaron Rental Center of Plant City, Evangelic Deliverance Church of Lakeland, Kiwanis Club of Plant City, Sam Miller Pro Sound Production of Plant City, Super Choice Supermarket of Lakeland, Sweetbay Supermarket (Store#1749; Henry Falcon- Manager), Unity in the Community, and Winn-Dixie of Lakeland.

The Plant City Black Heritage Celebration planners and the Des’Aime Social Club hosted its

13th annual Christmas giveaway event on December 17, 2011 at Sam Cooper Park from 10:00am-2:00pm.

Thanks to the generous sponsors, more than 200 families were served with more than 1,000 in attendance at the Santa Sled Festival (formerly called Christmas in the Park). Toys, bicycles, scooters, skateboards, and rocking horses were just a few of the Christmas toys given to more than 450 children in the community.

Charles and Dorothy Smith were two of the original six founders of the Des/Aime Social Club, a non-profit 501(c)4 organization. Originally the club was established among friends from Hillsborough and Polk counties as a “traveling” club, a way for good friends to spend time together. But it evolved quickly into a “giving” club when members learned of how much need there was in the community.

Each received a ticket for either a turkey or a bag of groceries, which included meat. Each child received two tickets. One was for a bag of gifts appropriate to their

WRITTEN BY: CHERYL JOHNSTON | PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHARON MOODY AND BRUCE MATTHEW


In the last three editions of “The Focus” I’ve been talking with you about the dream of planting a new kind of church here in our town. Or maybe it’s an old kind of church. No, that doesn’t really describe it either. Actually, what I want to do is this: With God’s help, I want us to plant an Ancient-Future church.

What is ancient-future? One of my spiritual mentors, Robert Webber, used to say that the road to the future runs through the past. And this is really what “Ancient-Future” means: Worship and spirituality that are deeply rooted in classic Christianity. I’m convinced that the faith and practice of the ancient Church will engage our culture more effectively and provide a way forward in a time of almost unbelievable change. These days our society has a kind of nostalgia for the future—we imagine what we want it to be, we idealize it. This happens in churches too. We long for growth, for bigger and better, for new techniques and programs. There’s nothing wrong with looking forward, but as theologian Thomas Oden writes, “the Holy Spirit has a history”. We would do well to see how the Spirit has moved in the lives of men and women through the ages and learn from them.

So, in an Ancient-Future faith community, I would want us to live out a mission that’s both anciently-rooted and forward-looking. How does that work? Well, part of that mission includes caring about people’s spiritual formation and growth, and such a community would grow, I believe, when we live out a day by day kind of spirituality. So, you could find members of our Ancient-Future faith community at worship on Sundays, gathering for prayer and study through the week, and, just as important, ministering to people in our very own community day by day.

Any of this sound intriguing to you? Let’s keep the conversation going.

With love, Fr. Ken Rushing

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LOCAL » FOCUS

JUNIOR ROYALTYOn Saturday January 7, the Florida Strawberry Festival held its annual Junior

Royalty Pageant. Plant city’s finest 5-to-15 year old young ladies got dolled up and put their months of preparation to the test. The 120 contestants were judged on

personality, appearance and natural beauty.

After gracefully walking the stage in formal wear, the top 10 from each of the four age divisions answered an on stage question. Since the 2012 Strawberry Festival theme is “Growing Sweet Memories,” contestants shared their favorite vacation memory or what they want to be remembered for.

Many young ladies looked beautiful beyond their young years as they shared their individuality with the poise and confidence of a Miss America. While four new beauties left with queen’s crowns, all the contestants left with sweet memories made at the 2012 Junior Royalty Pageant.

Following are the results and Plant City’s new Junior Royalty Queens and their courts.

WRITTEN BY: SHANA MITCHELL | PHOTOS BY HARRY JEFFCOAT

Baroness Milee Hasting, Princess Jadea Broome, Queen Carly Knox, Duchess Tori Wegner

BARONESSTop 10Sara Grace Sparkman, Shelby Lawrence, Madelynn Farmer, Brooklyn Zajac, Bailey Brock, Carson ButtramMakayla Mahoney, Ashley Hill, Amiyah Smith, Milee Hasting

Baroness CourtBaroness Milee Hasting, 1st Maid Ashley Hill, Court Members: Sara Grace Sparkman, Bailey Brock. Carson Buttram

DUCHESSTop 10Ashtyn Rogers, McKinley Baker, Avery Surrency, Alyssa Grimes, Amanda Astrike, Madison HodgeTori Wegner, Aleena Jaramillo, Brilynn Hallman, Payton Talavera

Duchess CourtDuchess Tori Wegner, 1st Maid Payton Talavera, Court Members: McKinley Baker, Avery Surrency, Amanda Astrike

PRINCESSTop 10Jadea Broome, Hanna Barrett, Taylor Grimes, Kenlee Milton, Kalynn Kunz, Haley Riley, Victoria Garrison, Emily Glausier, Faith Nagy, Kendall Gaudens

Princess CourtPrincess Jadea Broome, 1st Maid Hanna Barrett, Court Members: Taylor Grimes, Emily Glausier, Faith Nagy

QUEENTop 10Elizabeth Padilla, Ashley Bishop, Haylee Mathis, Deanna Rodriguez, Payton Astin, Hannah Baxter, Carly Knox, Georgia Foster, Courtney Bendorf-Grimes

Queen CourtQueen Carly Knox, 1st Maid Deanna Rodriguez, Court Members: Payton Astin, Hannah Baxter, Kaylan Kelly


LOCAL » FOCUS

Baroness CourtBaroness Milee Hasting, 1st Maid Ashley Hill, Court Members:

Sara Grace Sparkman, Bailey Brock, Carson Buttram

Princess CourtPrincess Jadea Broome, 1st Maid Hanna Barrett, Court Members:

Taylor Grimes, Emily Glausier, Faith Nagy

Duchess CourtDuchess Tori Wegner, 1st Maid Payton Talavera, Court Members:

McKinley Baker, Avery Surrency, Amanda Astrike,

Queen CourtQueen Carly Knox, 1st Maid Deanna Rodriguez, Court Members:

Payton Astin, Hannah Baxter, Kaylan Kelly


LOCAL » FOCUS

NEW YEAR’S BABY CELEBRATIONPaisley Faith Tosca, daughter of Haley

Tyson and Daniel Tosca of Plant City, was Brandon Regional Hospital’s

official New Year’s Day Baby. Paisley, delivered by Dr. Ignacio Armas, was born at 12:01 a.m. January 1, 2012 weighing six pounds, three ounces and was measured at 18.5 inches long. Brandon Regional, OBGYN Associates, and Babies R Us embraced the New Year’s Baby with a special gift card and baby supplies.

Haley’s mother, Karon Tyson was very excited about her new granddaughter. “Paisley is a gift from God and a treasure to our family,” she said.

This grandmother had more excitement to come. Little did she know that as soon as her granddaughter entered this world, more New Year’s baby celebrations were on the way to welcome her great nephew. Her niece, Kayla Bloomfield, was in labor just down the hall at the very same hospital. Another New Year’s day birthday for this family was in store. Eli Jesse Bloomfield was born later that same day at 1:46 p.m.

to Erik and Kayla Bloomfield. Eli weighed eight pounds, one ounce and was measured at 19 inches long.

Karon remarked, “Both births were normal deliveries and this family believes the timing was a God thing. Babies are a treasure, a gift, and reward, according to scripture. New Year’s Day will never be the same in this family. It will have a new and special significance.”

While many families were gathering on New Year’s Day to celebrate the first day of 2012, this family was gathered at the hospital to celebrate new lives and new beginnings for their family. What a way to begin a brand new year!

In looking ahead at the years to come, Eli’s Mom, Kayla Bloomfield stated, “ The birthday menu will always include black-eyed peas and cornbread. When you are from Plant City, that is a given.”

This was a New Year’s Celebration that this family will never forget.

WITH A TWISTWRITTEN BY: DEANA GARRISON

Paisley Faith Tosca, born 12:01 am, 1-1-12

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LOCAL » FOCUS

BING ROOMING HOUSE MUSEUM SUPPORT APPRECIATED

County serve as historical museums pertaining to African American culture, preservation and research. One is the Bing House and the other is Glover School in Bealsville.

The museum contains traveling photo exhibits through its partnership with the Plant City Photo Archives. Groups are encouraged to phone ahead for a dedicated visit.

The Improvement League of Plant City also organizes the Annual Plant City MLK Festival scheduled this year for January 13-16, 2012. Proceeds and support from the Festival benefit the Bing Rooming House Museum.

Donations should be mailed to the Improvement League of Plant City, Inc., P.O. Box 3962, Plant City, FL 33564-3962 (Attn: Bing House Museum). For additional information and progress updates, visit www.plantcitybinghouse.com or phone 813-757-6760 or 704-5800.

This very worthwhile cause deserves al the local support we can provide.

Florida Sentinel, and the Collegiate 100 of Hillsborough Community College (Plant City Campus).

The museum at 205 South Allen Street is now open for tours. The first floor is now complete. Funds are still needed to restore the second floor and a rear structure, which housed a restaurant at one time.

For the unfamiliar, the Plant City Bing Rooming House is the largest remaining structure in the Lincoln Park Neighborhood, dating back to the 1920s. Formerly, it provided overnight accommodations to blacks during the era of segregation. Mr. E.L. Bing served as principal of Marshall High School and the historic Glover School. He is known especially for designing and implementing the Hillsborough County Schools Desegregation Plan, while serving as Assistant Superintendent of Schools. A school in Progress Village is named in his honor. Bing also later served as a Hillsborough County Commissioner.

In 2001, James Washington deeded the house to the Improvement League after they agreed to take on the project. Once that occurred the League obtained the services of PBS&J to have the house placed on the National Historic Register, obtain grants, conduct fundraisers, meet with public officials in Tallahassee, and develop a relationship with the City of Plant City to support the project. Proceeds from the Annual MLK Festival supported the restoration. Liesta Sykes and Henry

Johnson both served as project managers during the course of this restoration.

Here’s a historic fact: Currently, only two PERMANENT facilities in Hillsborough

The non-profit Improvement League of Plant City, Inc. could use our help to complete restoration of the Bing

Rooming House Museum. This historic treasure will provide educational insights and opportunities for visitors, both local and from distances away.

In June 2011, a fundraising effort began to raise the final $65,000 needed to finish the interior restorations. More than $300,000 has already been invested.

The goal of the group was simple - they sought 2,000 generous individuals in the Tampa Bay area willing to donate $25 or more in support of this future African American museum. By November 2011, an additional $16,525 had been raised and 31 new donors had stepped up to help. Many generous individuals and local businesses have helped to realize this dream for our city.

The Project’s near completion is a result of the hard work of “eight” core Individuals, all volunteers with the Improvement League of Plant City, plus James McDaniel with the City of Plant City. The volunteers are Liesta Sykes, William Thomas Jr., Henry Johnson, Daisy Gilmore, Henry Davis, William Thomas Sr., Janell Johnson, Gwendolyn Thomas, and Clara Barron.

Special appreciation is also due the Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival, the NAACP,

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WRITTEN BY: CHERYL JOHNSTON | PHOTOS BY: WILLIAM THOMAS, JR.


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LOCAL » FOCUS

COLBY BREWINGTONgrams away from being the champion. Representing his family and school well, he says, “I was proud.” His top winning total was 974 grams with 158 marbles held in the boat before it sank.

Skill and strategy led him to his first place winnings and journey to the Finals. When Six-year-old Colby Brewington

recently showed off his elite scientific skills in the Science Olympics Event.

The first grader at Walden Lake Elementary was given the opportunity to participate in the event during the school’s classroom competition. He was presented with the Aqua Foils project.

With his supplies in front of him and the rules stated, Brewington was given a certain amount of time to build an aluminum boat that would hold a greater mass of marbles. The first grader says he had a plan from the beginning. He knew he had to build the boat with enough room on the sides to hold the amount of weight he needed in order to win.

When he completed his creation, he was

then required to test it to see just how much mass his aluminum boat would hold. His plan worked.

With the most mass held in his boat, Brewington successfully won in his class to continue to the next stage, which was the grade level competition. There, he competed against the other classroom winners in his grade level. Again, his strategy captured the lead.

As the first grade school winner, Brewinton continued on his journey to the Semi-Finals held at MOSI on November 19th. Taking the lead once more he was on his way to the Finals. MOSI hosted the Science Olympics Final Event on December 8th with opening and closing ceremonies just like the Olympics itself.

He gave it his best shot, but was just

asked about giving the Science Olympics a try next year, he definitely wishes to do it again. We can all be encouraged watching our young generation show such great interest in the field of science.

MAKES SCIENCE LOOK EASY WRITTEN BY: DEANA GARRISON

MARRIAGE, PARENTING, REPENTANCE AND FORGIVENESS

Speaker: Dr. Allen Higginbotham, Pastor February 11, 2011 8:30 am-12:00 noon

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FOR I KNOW THE PLANS I HAVE FOR YOU, DECLARES

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JEREMIAH 29:11

Colby Brewington won three qualifying events that took him to the Science Olympic Finals held on Decemebr 8th at MOSI.


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LOCAL » FOCUS

EXPERIENCING CONGRESSIONAL CLASSROOMLOCAL STUDENT SELECTED FOR VISIT TO D.C.

was really amazing getting to hear their stories.”

The group also visited the NASA headquarters where they were exposed to the types of decisions they’re making today. They did a mock Congress with real bills that were being voted on. They developed amendments to the bills and were in attendance while Congress was in session. A highlight of the trip was having the opportunity to have their photo taken from the Congressional Balcony. I’m told that people who’ve spent their lives working in D.C. politics haven’t had this opportunity.

Humphrey said, “Everyone seems to have this mentality that politicians are shady. There really are a lot of good people there.”

Congressional Classroom is a great opportunity for anyone lucky enough to be selected. It’s a shame that it’s currently only available through Ross’ efforts. If Bilirakis were willing to start the same program for those in his district, other students from Hillsboro County would be eligible – specifically the other Plant City High School juniors, and those from Durant and Strawberry Crest.

Maybe it’s time for a few phone calls.

Plant City High School student, Kent Humphrey, was one of the lucky 15 chosen to attend, and the only one from Hillsborough County.

Here’s where things get a little tricky. Ross’ district only covers boundaries that are roughly the south side of I-4 and east side of Jim Redman Parkway. That really narrows the students that would be eligible to attend. To make it even harder to find an eligible student, they also must be high school juniors. However, Plant City is assured of having a student selected, as long as at least three students are nominated. Humphrey was one of the three to be nominated by Plant City High School. He was later interviewed by representatives with the Roberts Foundation, and finally selected as the representative.

Humphrey said, “When we arrived, we went straight from the airport to the World War II monument. We got to talk to some of the men who fought in World War II. Those veterans were there as part of the Honor Flight. Honor Flight was established to allow our veterans to visit their memorials in Washington D.C. It

Randy Roberts was the Government Relations Manager for Publix Super Markets, and a personal

friend. He spent his career as a lobbyist and quickly established himself at all levels of government. Tragically, he died of a heart attack while sleeping at home, almost 3 years ago. He was only 36. It was an exceptionally sad day for anyone lucky enough to have known him. His family and friends later established the Randy Roberts Foundation; a non-profit organization designed to cultivate future Florida leaders by providing civic service initiatives and scholarships.

In September, a group of 15 high school students, mostly from Polk County, but also including a small portion of eastern Hillsboro County, were selected to attend Congressional Classroom. The program is the brainchild of Florida U.S. Representative (District 12) Dennis Ross. Ross partnered with the Randy Roberts Foundation to allow local students the opportunity to experience Washington D.C. They spent 5 days in the capital.

WRITTEN BY: BRIAN WEST


LOCAL STUDENT SELECTED FOR VISIT TO D.C.

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LOCAL » FOCUS

ISF/ISSA MASTERS/SENIORSmodified pitch. The ISF sanctions regional championships and provides technical support to Regional (Multi-Sport) Games Are you ready for some serious softball,

Plant City?

The International Softball Federation (ISF) has four days of exciting play scheduled for this month. In conjunction with the International Senior Softball Association, the ISF/ISSA Masters/Seniors International Tournament of Champions will take place from January 26-29 at the ISF’s world headquarters complex here in Plant City, Florida, and at additional fields around the Tampa Bay area.

National Champions from all major softball associations were invited to compete and ISF member countries were invited to send their champions as well.

Domestic teams have had to qualify for the event, which will feature both men and women in slow pitch play. More than 60 teams are registered and have been placed in divisions ranging from (age) 35+ Masters up to 75+ Majors. The participants are from as close by as Tampa and as far away as Germany. More information can be found at www.seniorsoftball.org.

For those unfamiliar, the ISF, a non-profit corporation, is the governing body of softball internationally as recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and SportAccord (formerly the General Association of International Sports Federations). The Federation organizes and conducts world championship competition in women’s and men’s fast pitch, junior women’s and men’s fast pitch, women’s, men’s and coed slow pitch and women’s and men’s

and qualifies teams for Olympic softball competition in coordination with the IOC.

Admission and parking to the January games are free at all venues of this event.

The Plant City Stadium and the Randy L. Larson Softball Fourplex are located at 1900 S. Park Road, south of US 92.

INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS WRITTEN BY: CHERYL JOHNSTON

In this photo courtesy of Bob Gray, a picture with the South American team from Colombia is ready to “Play Ball!”

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LOCAL » FOCUS

PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOLPlant City High School made history

recently by earning an “A” grade according to the 2010-2011 Florida

Comprehensive Assessment Test results. This was the first “A” earned by Plant City High School.

Mrs. Colleen Richardson, Principal of Plan t City High School discovered the achievement when she went to the Florida DOE website. Very soon after her discovery she received phone calls from Mrs. Mary Ellen Elia, Superintendent of Hillsborough County Schools, as well as David Steele, former Principal of PCHS and now the Chief Information and Technology Officer of Hillsborough County Schools. Richardson made an announcement to the student body, faculty and staff notifying everyone on their latest accomplishment. It was truly a great day to be a “Raider!”

After the announcement, e-mails from the school went out to parents and students thanking all for their contributions in making the achievement possible. “Making an “A” grade is a collaboration of the entire faculty and staff along with the student and parents,“ stated Richardson.

She went on to say, “I am very proud of the way the students and teachers pulled together to reach the benchmarks encompassed on the school grading scale. We were very close to making an “A” last year and we are very happy that we have reached this milestone. We credit a supportive community as well.”Brigette Cole, a parent volunteer with two sons at PCHS was elated by the news. She remarked, “This is just confirmation that our students are getting a fantastic education.”

PCHS is blessed to have many parent volunteers that offer academic support to the students and encouragement to the faculty and staff. The PTA and Athletic Booster Club at PCHS are very strong and offer student incentives to promote learning.

Plans are underway to continue the new tradition of being an “A” school. Celebrations will be ongoing but the students and PCHS faculty are working hard to earn another “A” as FCAT testing this spring.

It has never been a better time to be a Plant City High School Raider!

PROUD TO BE AN “A”WRITTEN BY: SHERRIE MUELLER

Mr. Alan Schism (back with two thumbs up) celebrates the good news of an earned “A” for Plant City High School with his Advanced Placement Literature class

Students celebrate with Mrs. Colleen Richardson, Principal of Plant City High School. Left to right: Jeremy Minaya, Parthik Patel, Brieann Cooper, Mrs. Colleen Richardson, Shelby Johnson.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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The Plant City Photo Archives and History Center will be hosting the opening of the Smithsonian traveling exhibition

Journey Stories tour in the State of Florida from May 26 through July 7, 2012. As part of our participation in this program we are soliciting journey stories from local residents. Some of them will appear in FOCUS Magazine. Here is the journey story of Felix T. Haynes, Ed.D. and is the second of the Journey Stories series from our collection.

My great grandfather Josiah Nunley Haynes served in the Third Louisiana Cavalry of the Confederate Army. After the Civil War, he married Mary Margaret McBryde, whose brother John Adams McBryde had served through the Civil War in the Third Alabama Infantry Regiment. The Third Alabama Infantry was a part of Stonewall Jackson’s famous corps of the Army of Northern Virginia. My grandfather, James Clanton Haynes, Sr., was born in 1865 and was the first child of Josiah and Mary Margaret. He started as a crew member in South Georgia and Alabama and then became a foreman. They dressed him up in a suit and sent him up North to sell lumber in the large northern cities. Returning to the South, he was a general manager for many years of the Flowers Lumber Company. James started his own lumber company in Dothan, Alabama, in the 1920s. Unfortunately, the Great

Depression began shortly thereafter and he lost his business. James married Floye Jones, the oldest child of a circuit-riding Baptist minister and farmer, in 1901. James and Floye had six children, the youngest of whom did not survive the worldwide influenza epidemic of 1917. With the early death of his sister Frances, my father became the youngest child to grow to adulthood. Graduating from Dothan High School the same year the Depression began, 1929, Felix Tankersley Haynes sold encyclopedias door-to-door in Birmingham for a year. In 1931, he obtained a federal

GS-1 civil service appointment in Washington, D. C., in the Veterans Administration. The only male in a large typing pool, he always said he enjoyed his first federal job. He soon enrolled at Columbus School of Law, and working full time during the day and attending law school at night he graduated with a Juris Doctorate in 1936. Meanwhile, he became a clerk in the District of Columbia court system and, then, in the U. S. Attorney’s office in the District. After law school, he enrolled in a year of postgraduate legal study at Columbus, specializing in the then-high priority areas of Interstate Commerce and International Relations. When the Fair Labor Standards Act was enacted in 1938, he was among the first professionals hired to enforce that and other related labor laws.

On December 7, 1941, the Japanese and World War II interrupted his new federal career. Working on temporary duty in Tampa for the Department of Labor, he joined many other local residents and walked down Tampa Street to the Navy Recruiting Station and enlisted. With his law degree, he was promoted to the rank of Yeoman Second Class upon his completion of boot camp. His first assignment was working in the office of an Admiral, and almost immediately the Admiral recommended that he be commissioned as an Ensign. He was attending Officer Training School in 1942 at Fort Schuyler, New York, when his sister Josephine asked him to visit St. Bartholomew’s Church on Park Avenue, where she sang as the

soprano soloist in the choir. After the service his sister introduced him to Saida Knox, the contralto soloist of the choir, and he and Saida went to dinner afterward. Born in Clydebank, Scotland, in 1909, Saida had come to the United States with her parents as a baby in 1910. Her father had a beautiful bass voice with perfect pitch, and he came to America to pursue a singing career. Unfortunately, his day job was in a tile factory, and he lost his chance at a singing career because of hearing loss. However, Saida inherited the family singing genes. With a four-octave contralto voice, she won a national singing contest in 1931 that was sponsored by the Atwater Kent Manufacturing Company, which manufactured millions of radios in its Philadelphia plant and sponsored the nationally top rated concert music program, the Atwater Kent Hour. Specializing in complex classical and religious music, she sang frequently with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra and throughout the Northeast. Among her singing venues were the White House, where she sang for President Herbert Hoover, and Carnegie Hall, where she gave several individual concerts. Saida Knox was near the peak of her career when she met my father, and when he asked her to marry him she always said she had no trouble saying yes. Unlike some other couples of the time, however, they decided to wait until World War II was over to marry. After my father served on two ships in the Pacific and in the campaigns of Kiska, Tarawa, Kwajalein, and Okinawa, World War II ended. Felix and Saida were married in February, 1946 and I was born in April, 1947. My father spent a total of 35 years with the federal government and took early retirement at age 55 to use his labor law expertise and become a consultant. I attended public schools in Jacksonville and Tampa. After graduation from Robinson High School, I enrolled at the University of Florida. As an undergraduate I majored in Journalism. I was also accepted into Army ROTC and in 1969 received my bachelor’s degree. ROTC named me a Distinguished Military Graduate

and commissioned me as a second lieutenant of infantry. While working at Maas Brothers in Tampa in 1966, I met the love of my life, Susan. We were married in Towson, Maryland, on Friday, June 13th, 1969, and drove 16 hours to return to Gainesville that Sunday, June 15th to graduate and be commissioned. After two Army schools, Susan and I moved to Panama for my first real Army job. After a year and a half, the Army said it wanted me in Vietnam. Susan completed her bachelor’s degree at UF while I was in Vietnam. After service in Vietnam, I was released from active duty as a captain. We lived in Gainesville for several years, where I worked at the former Alachua General Hospital and the Community Mental Center and pursued a master’s degree in Public Administration. I began a career in community college administration in 1975 at Daytona Beach Community College. While Susan and I lived in Daytona, we adopted two babies. Susan also began a career there in social work and obtained her master’s degree in that field while we lived there. After obtaining my Doctor of Education degree in 1981 from the University of Florida, I accepted a position at a regional university in Illinois. After two years, I realized that I had a strong preference to work in community colleges because of their strong ties to the community. I moved to central Illinois, where I worked for twelve years at a small, rural community college. The last nine years there I was president, and we adopted two more children. Another life-changing event occurred for me in Illinois, when I was invited to attend a month-long Military History program at West Point. I returned to Illinois and taught several courses in military history. I then moved to a community college in Maryland as president, where I stayed for three years. Having learned all I wanted about shoveling snow and driving on ice, home beckoned, and I returned to Hillsborough County to accept the campus presidency of HCC Plant City. I have also written two historical fiction novels here, and I am working on a third. Working in Plant City with its many good organizations, like the Photo Archives and History Center, for twelve years has been extremely fulfilling, and the friendships I have made here have been a great blessing in my life. I look forward to retirement from Hillsborough Community College and continuing to work in Plant City for many years.

LOCAL » DID YOU KNOW

STORIES OF AMERICANS, THEIR TRAVELS, AND EXPERIENCES

JOURNEY STORIES:

SECOND IN A SERIES – FELIX T. HAYNES SUBMITTED BY: PLANT CITY PHOTO ARCHIVES & HISTORY CENTER

Haynes, Felix T. WWII


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GREATER PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Your Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce CHRISTMAS TREE CONTEST was a great success.

The winner of the $200 Visa Gift Card was Ben Rawnsley. Congratulations, Ben!Trophies were awarded to the following business for the best decorated tree:

1st place: Wells Memorial Funeral Home

2nd place: Cameron Financial Management

3rd place: Deese Scrubs

Congratulations to the winners of the trophies and a special thank you to all the businesses that entered the contest. When next Christmas rolls around, be sure to watch for the announcement of this contest. It’s great fun and a wonderful opportunity to visit the participating businesses and get acquainted.

**********

This is the first Chamber page of the New Year. A suggestion….get out your new calendars and make notations for the various events that have been planned for 2012:

BIKE FEST - 1st Saturday of every month 5-9 p.m. in downtown Plant City.The Anniversary show takes place in October.

STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CAR SHOW -3rd Saturday of every month in downtown Plant City 4-9 p.m. Anniversary show takes place in April.

CONTACT BREAKFAST - This Chamber event takes place at the Red Rose Inn & Suites the 2nd Wednesday of each month (except July) at 7:30 a.m.

January 26th. - Chairman’s Banquet at Red Rose Inn & Suites at 6:30 p.m.

March 1st - March 11th. - Be sure and stop by the Chamber’s booth at the Florida Strawberry Festival. You can find us in the Arthur Boring Building.

March 24th. - Second Annual Planes, Trains & Automobiles event at the Plant City Airport from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. A great family time.

April 20th. - Children’s Annual Golf Tournament at Walden Lake Golf & Country Club.

May 19th. - Margarita Ball

August 16th. - New Teacher Coffee to welcome new teachers to our schools.

November 1st. - Economic Development Council Business Awards Banquet takesplace at the Red Rose Inn & Suites. 6 to 9 p.m.

November 17th. - 10th. Annual Pig Jam 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

**********

On January 26th your Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce will install new officers at the 30th Annual Chairman’s Banquet at the Red Rose Inn & Suites.

Taking over as Chairman of the Board is Matt Buzza; Chairman Elect, Jim Scott; Immediate Past Chairman, Lee Williams; Treasurer, Nate Kilton; Vice Chairman of the Chamber’s Community Program Division, Janet Kelly; Vice Chairman of Membership, Paul Davis; Vice Chairman of Community & Governmental Affairs Division, Michael Cameron.

New Directors for 2012 are: Aaron Davis, Michael Gottesman and Bradley Herremans.

In addition, the Chamber is blessed with a terrific staff. Marion Smith is President; Amy Nizamoff, Administrative Coordinator; Nancy Benedict, Communications Director; Jennifer Chamberlain, Membership Director; Jane Gonzalez, Tourist Information Coordinator and Al Collinge, Tourist Information Specialist and also Al serves as coordinator of the Union Station Welcome Center and Depot. In addition, offsite staff includes Fran Johnson, who

is coordinator of the Tourist Information Center on Park Road.

To check for new updates and additional information regarding the Chamber, you can log onto the Chamber’s web site at www.plantcitychamber.com .

**********

The Chamber’s January BUSINESS AFTER HOURS will be held Thursday the 19th at 5:15 p.m. at the Fairfield Inn & Suites, 4307 Sterling Commerce Drive. Call the Chamber office to RSVP at 813-754-3707.

Kudos to the 23 schools in Area VI for their efforts in collecting food during the fall food drive to benefit the United Food Bank of Plant City. A total of 30,851 pounds of canned and boxed food was collected. Jim Chancey, Director of the Food Bank, wants to express a big “thank you” members of the Daybreak Rotary Club for picking up the collected items from each school.

Mr. Chancey also wants to thank all who donated food and those that volunteered at the Food Bank over the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday.

**********

The January 21st - Strawberry Classic Car Show will feature Trucks of all makes, model and years. This great family event is held in McCall Park with a DJ and music from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s, along with a 50/50 cash drawing. The specialty shops and restaurants stay open late during this event which gets underway at 4 p.m.

**********

There will be plenty of activity at the Plant City Stadium and Randy Larson Four-Plex from January 26th. to the 29th. The International Softball Federation has tournaments scheduled each of those days. You can call the Recreation and Parks Department at 813-659-4255 for a complete schedule.

**********

The Plant City Garden Club will present “SEA TO SHINING SEA”, a standard flower show which will pay tribute to our National Beaches and Parks.

The program on Thursday, February 2nd from 5 to 8 p.m. will be at the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club.

As an added feature, dinner is available in the dining room. Dinner reservations are required and interested parties are asked to call the Walden Lake Golf & Country Club at 813-754-8575.

Cassandra Banning is General Chairman, with Christy Linke serving as Assistant Chairman. For additional information, call Cassandra at 813-759-1638 or Christy at 813-752-5874.

**********

Don’t miss the Chamber’s Bike Fest on Saturday, February 4th in downtown Plant City. Gets underway at 5 p.m. Great event with lot and lots of motorcycles to look over.

DATES FOR YOUR CANENDAR:

Saturday, Jan. 28 - Strawberry Festival Queen Pageant

Wednesday, Feb. 8 - Chamber Contact Breakfast at Red Rose Inn & Suites

Thursday, Feb. 9 - Florida State Fair opens

Thursday, Feb. 9 - Lunch & Learn at noon at HCC Plant City Campus. Topic is Creating A Business Plan. Donation of $8 covers the cost of lunch.

Friday, Feb. 10 - Evening of Celebrating our Culture With Love, 6 p.m. at Trinkle Center. Call Sharon Moody by Jan. 30 at 453-7134 to RSVP

Friday, Feb. 10 - USSSA Youth Baseball Tournament. Call 813-659-4255 for info.

Saturday, Feb. 11 - Plant City Entertainment presents “The Coffee Shop”

Saturday, Feb. 11 - Black Heritage Parade - 1 p.m.

LOCAL » CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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Plant City, FL 33563-0035Contact: Joseph Mendolia

Phone: (813) 263-4019 WebSite: www.pccommunitychoir.com

http://jessandersontalentandmodelagency.com

http://allcare-rehab.com



Our Tasting Room & Gift Shop is

open daily until 6PMSample all our wines

for just $6. Due to popular demand, we have brought back our ice wine for a

limited time.

Host Your Next Special Moment at

Keel & CurleyWedding

Ceremonies & Receptions

Showers, Parties, & Corporate Events

Friday Evening After Hours Wine BarHappy Hour 6PM - 7PMWine Tasting until 9PMLive Music 6:30PM - 10:30PM

February 4, 2012 from 7 to 11pm.

$12 cover charge$10 advance tickets

813.752.9100 5202 W. Thonotosassa Rd., Plant City

www.keelandcurleywinery.com

Come Experience the Napa Valley Of Tampa Bay

http://keelandcurleywinery.com


and honored that you trust us to do it right. We could not have done it without you.

And it seems like “thanks” is just not enough to show our appreciation. We’ve tried to help in practical ways, too.

As we’ve grown, we’ve worked to add tools to help our advertisers and our readers utilize the media we present to their best advantage. For example, bi-weekly e-blasts keep folks reminded of local events, great deals at restaurants, and business specials. We also post coupons on myfocuscoupons.com, just in case you’ve missed or deleted an e-blast.

We all enjoy reading your comments on our Facebook fanpage and we’ve been excited to see how many more of you are following regularly. You are the heartbeat of this magazine, so please keep those comments coming.

10Ten years ago this month, Focus Magazine published its first issue. It’s hard to believe how quickly that time has passed. As we look back over the stories we’ve covered, one emotion overwhelms us - gratefulness. We’re grateful for you - our readers, advertisers, vendors, and contributors.

From one edition in 2002 to the six we publish monthly now, it’s been a growing and learning experience. Just like any business, we’ve faced challenges and experienced some ups and downs. Thankfully, mostly ups. But here we are today, still thrilled to be doing what we love - sharing your joys and connecting our community.

Thank you, Plant City (and Brandon, Lakeland, Winter Haven, Lake County, and South Tampa) for your support and encouragement, for your cooperation and enthusiasm, for your suggestions and critique - your input has been critical to our company. We feel privileged to report our community good news

By Cheryl Johnston

FOCUS CelebratesTenth AnniversaryFOCUS CelebratesTenth Anniversary

Celebration is set for February 16, 2012 at Keel & Curley

We’ve strived to make our websites user friendly and we’ve incorporated periodic Focus TV segments for your interest. This year our goal is to provide video tours of every advertiser so our readers can go inside and be inspired to buy local.

Like any small business, we’ve faced challenges through the years and we understand the difficulties of a tougher economic climate. Thank you for continuing to believe in our mission and for helping our community to stay connected as you’ve shared your events, stories, trials, challenges, and triumphs.

Speaking of challenges, we had a goal this year. To bond our staff together a little more, we planned to tackle “11 Big Adventures” in 2011. Sometimes plans from one year have to roll over into the next. Such is the case with our big adventures dream. We started strong by go-cart racing, parasailing, deep-sea fishing, BOINGing (trampolining), and paintballing together (and we’ve heard that you liked the reports). But busy

schedules, publication deadlines, and family obligations meant we had to postpone some. So, in 2012 this plan continues.

Focus editorial content has always been built around our readers’ suggestions for great stories and their feedback. What touches us most is how you respond to specific issues throughout the year. We always have fun planning the cover shoots for the new Strawberry Festival Queen and Court and for our Makeover issue. We’re always touched with the appreciation shown by the four Makeover winners each year and we love celebrating their new looks at the evening’s dinner. This year was especially touching to us because of the death of winner Vicki Hannah, Her son Taylor still holds a special place in our hearts.

We love firsts, too, and had a great time showcasing the 1st Annual Cutest Kids contestants on Facebook and in the magazine. We’re expecting it to be an even bigger event this year.

Feature StoryFOCUS MAGAZINE


AnthonyArt Director

TonyVisual Design Specialist

JulieAccount Manager

AldoAccountManagerAngel

CreditManager

MikePublisherCheryl

CopyEditor

DeDeAccountManager

KelleighAccountManager

JarrodAdvertising Assistant


and honored that you trust us to do it right. We could not have done it without you.

And it seems like “thanks” is just not enough to show our appreciation. We’ve tried to help in practical ways, too.

As we’ve grown, we’ve worked to add tools to help our advertisers and our readers utilize the media we present to their best advantage. For example, bi-weekly e-blasts keep folks reminded of local events, great deals at restaurants, and business specials. We also post coupons on myfocuscoupons.com, just in case you’ve missed or deleted an e-blast.

We all enjoy reading your comments on our Facebook fanpage and we’ve been excited to see how many more of you are following regularly. You are the heartbeat of this magazine, so please keep those comments coming.

10Ten years ago this month, Focus Magazine published its first issue. It’s hard to believe how quickly that time has passed. As we look back over the stories we’ve covered, one emotion overwhelms us - gratefulness. We’re grateful for you - our readers, advertisers, vendors, and contributors.

From one edition in 2002 to the six we publish monthly now, it’s been a growing and learning experience. Just like any business, we’ve faced challenges and experienced some ups and downs. Thankfully, mostly ups. But here we are today, still thrilled to be doing what we love - sharing your joys and connecting our community.

Thank you, Plant City (and Brandon, Lakeland, Winter Haven, Lake County, and South Tampa) for your support and encouragement, for your cooperation and enthusiasm, for your suggestions and critique - your input has been critical to our company. We feel privileged to report our community good news

By Cheryl Johnston

FOCUS CelebratesTenth Anniversary

Celebration is set for February 16, 2012 at Keel & Curley

We’ve strived to make our websites user friendly and we’ve incorporated periodic Focus TV segments for your interest. This year our goal is to provide video tours of every advertiser so our readers can go inside and be inspired to buy local.

Like any small business, we’ve faced challenges through the years and we understand the difficulties of a tougher economic climate. Thank you for continuing to believe in our mission and for helping our community to stay connected as you’ve shared your events, stories, trials, challenges, and triumphs.

Speaking of challenges, we had a goal this year. To bond our staff together a little more, we planned to tackle “11 Big Adventures” in 2011. Sometimes plans from one year have to roll over into the next. Such is the case with our big adventures dream. We started strong by go-cart racing, parasailing, deep-sea fishing, BOINGing (trampolining), and paintballing together (and we’ve heard that you liked the reports). But busy

schedules, publication deadlines, and family obligations meant we had to postpone some. So, in 2012 this plan continues.

Focus editorial content has always been built around our readers’ suggestions for great stories and their feedback. What touches us most is how you respond to specific issues throughout the year. We always have fun planning the cover shoots for the new Strawberry Festival Queen and Court and for our Makeover issue. We’re always touched with the appreciation shown by the four Makeover winners each year and we love celebrating their new looks at the evening’s dinner. This year was especially touching to us because of the death of winner Vicki Hannah, Her son Taylor still holds a special place in our hearts.

We love firsts, too, and had a great time showcasing the 1st Annual Cutest Kids contestants on Facebook and in the magazine. We’re expecting it to be an even bigger event this year.

Feature StoryFOCUS MAGAZINE


AnthonyArt Director

TonyVisual Design Specialist

JulieAccount Manager

AldoAccountManagerAngel

CreditManager

MikePublisherCheryl

CopyEditor

DeDeAccountManager

KelleighAccountManager

JarrodAdvertising Assistant


We have a responsibility to report on as much local news as we can fit into the magazine each month. To do this, we will strive to build our advertising base so we can add more editorial content, as this is what makes that possible. Here’s a shout out to those loyal advertisers who run ads with us each month. That loyalty makes Focus possible.

To celebrate our Ten Year Anniversary, we have a plan and we hope you will join us.

If there is one thing our readers, advertisers, and the subjects of our stories have taught us, it’s the power of giving back and of caring about our neighbors, especially when there’s a need.

Our plan this year involves an effort to benefit the United Food Bank of Plant City through an adjunct to their annual signature fundraiser, the Celebrity Chef Dinner.

Join us Thursday, February 16, 2012 for our Annual Reader’s Choice Awards when we will recognize the winners from the votes cast by locals for favorite restaurants in several different categories.

This evening also involves the monthly After Hours celebration with the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, which makes it one of the largest Thursday night gatherings of the year. Several hundred usually attend to mix and mingle and have a little fun. We’d like you to be there.

To help the United Food Bank, we encourage everyone to make a donation as they enter the party at Keel and Curley Winery on the night of the 16th. The celebration will include live entertainment and great food from some of the local favorites. It’s a great chance to catch up with your friends in the community and it’s a great cause.

We also encourage you to purchase tickets for the Celebrity Chef Dinner, scheduled for Saturday, February 18 at the Trinkle Center, and also to consider becoming a sponsor.

Once again, Plant City, we’re proud to serve this wonderful community. Without you, there would be no Focus. Here’s to even greater years ahead. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

as we can fit into the magazine each month. To do this, we

Food Bank of Plant City through an adjunct to their annual

Local Plant City artist Jesse Starr created our January 2008 cover celebrating Plant City’s 125th birthday

DeDe took home the 1stplace trophy at our 11 adventures Karting trip.

L-R Sophia Hyde, Angel Carter, Holly Farmer, DeDe Floyd & Julie Hasting at our 9th Anniversary Party.

Marti Lofstrom’s inspirational story touched many hearts.

Focus covers all of Plant City & the surrounding areas.

Our very first cover designed by Brian Taylor.

Focus attends many events a year to support the communities it serves.

Chamber of Commerce, which makes it one of the largest

To help the United Food Bank, we encourage everyone to

. The celebration will include live entertainment and great food from some of the

Focus attends many events a year to support the communities it serves.

Focus TV crew on location in Winter Haven


We encourage you to bring someone with you tohelp take notes and ask questions.

You will be provided the opportunity to have a nocost hearing screening to determine if you havehearing loss and what kind of treatment options

may be available to you.

863-647-5700

Open up anew world.

Special Invitation

EDUCATIONAL SEMINAR

Presented by: Dr. T. L. Schneider, Au.D.

At this one hour seminar you will learn:

• Causes of hearing loss

• How to help avoid doing further damageto your ability to hear speech clearly

• What are the risks of doing nothing abouthearing loss

Dr. Schneider is well known and respected for her work in bothhearing loss as well as the diagnostics and causes of vertigo.

She graduated from the University of South Florida, Tampa whereshe earned the highest degree awarded for her knowledge of theauditory system.

After calling to make a reservation this voucher entitlesyou and a guest to a private, no cost, seminar entitled;

At the time of this press release thefollowing dates were available:

ONE HOUR SESSIONON ANY ONE OF THE FOLLOWING DAYS

Week of Jan. 15, 2012:Monday, Wednesday, or Thursday

Week of Jan. 22, 2012:Monday, Tuesday, Thursday or Friday

THESE SPACES WILL FILL QUICKLY!DO NOT DELAY CALLING!

• What are the benefits and rewards of treatinghearing loss

You and a guest are invited to a private, no cost,

• If I need a hearing aid how do I know if I amgetting a quality instrument

You must call before January 27, 2012 !

Presented by; Dr. T. L. Schneider

Held at: 5424 Strickland Ave., Lakeland, FL 33812

Enjoy the freedom learning about your hearing loss will bringyou and your loved ones.

Free yourself from the negative effects hearing loss brings.

After this seminar you’ll ask yourself, WHY did I put this off!

863-647-5700*ALERT if you, or someone you know has hearing loss

DO NOT purchase a hearing aid before attending this seminar !

Titled....


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

CHIROPRACTIC CARE CONTRIBUTES TO OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE OF BASEBALL WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONS 2011 ST. LOUIS CARDINALS AND 2010 SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS

CARDINAL PITCHER JOE MOTTE ADvOCATES CHIROPRACTIC CARE

As the St. Louis Cardinals celebrate their 11th World Series title and the San Francisco Giants relive their 2010 championship, Chiropractic team doctors Ralph Filson, D.C. of the Cardinals and Michael Gazdar, D.C. of the San Francisco Giants, explain that regular chiropractic care provides baseball players with proper spine function and balance to reduce the risk of spine-related injuries, enhance recovery time and improve overall performance.

Dr. Filson says, “With Chiropractic care, players report they feel better and have better endurance. Body mechanics are significantly improved, enabling better pitching, hitting and throwing.”

Jason Motte shares, “I had issues with my shoulder

and arm for a long time. Since I started seeing Dr. Filson, I have not had any problems.

In 2006, Dr. Filson was awarded a World Series ring for his role with the Cardinals, and was proud to play a similar role in the 2011 championship. “I am proud to have provided chiropractic care to the Cardinals for so many years and gratified that chiropractic has contributed to the players’ optimal performance during every game.”

According to Dr. Gazdar, who began working with the San Francisco Giants in 2008, “Chiropractic care was a significant factor in the San Francisco Giants 2010 victory.”

Both doctors express their enthusiasm for the inclusion of chiropractic care for virtually every team participating in professional sports, including golf, football, hockey, basketball and baseball.

Special Note: Dr. Dukes and staff would like to wish everyone a Happy Valentine’s Day

Blessings,Dr. Dukes and Staff

La Porta Rossa at Mario’s is Lakeland'snewest Italian bistro. There is nothing wewon't do for our guests. Try us today andexperience the difference.

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Firehouse CheF will help provide Food For those in need

Food Bank prepares for extended Annual event

The United Food Bank of Plant City has been serving our community for more than 15 years. The Food Bank began as a church pantry and evolved into a stand-alone facility located on Alsobrook Street. But it’s a facility that has

seen two significant expansions in just 3 years. Unfortunately, those expansions are due to the increasing need in our community.

The economy has definitely had an impact here, and those working at the Food Bank see it each day. It may be something easy to dismiss. You may think this is something that is only affecting others. But you may be surprised to find out that even your neighbors have had to rely on the Food Bank. It isn’t uncommon these days to have people from Walden Lake, the largest (and most affluent) area of Plant City, come in as clients. It’s true. Financial hardships aren’t something unique to a specific race or a part of town.

The hardship stories are countless. There are clients who’ve lost their job, which is probably the most common. There are those who’ve experienced unexpected medical issues. One of the most recent heartbreaking stories was the mother with-out a job, diagnosed with terminal cancer, caring for a young son and knowing she had no family to turn to. No one. Imagine that. If this kind of story doesn’t tug

Feature by Brian West

THE FIREHOUSE CHEFCHEF JOSEPH BONANNO

CONTINUED ON PAGE 52


THE FIREHOUSE CHEF


THE FIREHOUSE CHEFat your heart, you probably need to check your pulse. She lost her fight with cancer. Her son is currently being cared for, but it’s just a sad story of how one or two things

in a family’s life can change so quickly and have such a great impact.

At the end of the day, the clients of the Food Bank are just looking for that next meal. Fortunately, many just need help getting over the hump, and can get back on their feet pretty quickly. One of the greatest stories from the Food Bank involves a family who were once clients. They’d fallen on hard times and needed help. But they fought back, got up on their feet again, and today are regular contributors to the Food Bank. So much so

that daughter, Kayli, on her own, has donated several thousand dollars to the Food Bank through her own fundraising efforts. It’s probably worth mentioning that Kayli is just a high school teenager.

Now imagine how different our community or our world would be if more young people got this in-volved in what is going on around them and worked to make things better. Regardless of anything

else this young lady does in her life, she, and the world around her will be better off thanks to her giving spirit and those surrounding her that she inspires.

For the past three years, the Food Bank has held a Celebrity Chef Dinner as their signature fundraiser. The event involves a pre-dinner event, usually with some type of cooking

challenge with locals or celebrities. The first year included State Attorney Mark Ober, Representative Rich Glorioso and Mayor Dan Raulerson. The following year,

the Fire Department competed against the Police Department, and last year, the Gentlemen Grillers competed against the Gourmet Viniculture Society. The

pre-dinner event is always fun and the attendees get an opportunity to sample a few great appetizers.

This year, the Celebrity Chef dinner will take place on Saturday, Febru-ary 18 at the Trinkle Center located on the Hillsborough Community

College campus. Since its inception, the celebrity chef was Jon Ashton. Ashton has been featured on the Today Show and in many

other TV appearances. His great personality combined with his Liverpool, England accent and English slang always kept the attendees laughing.

This year, it was time to change things up a little, so there’s a new celebrity chef – Joseph Bonanno. Bonanno is also known as the Firehouse Chef. Bonanno is a retired firefighter from New York City. He served as a firefighter for 21 years, which also gave him great experience cooking for some of the best critics imaginable – hungry firemen. After attending a class at the New School in Manhattan, a New York editor from Hearst Publishing approached him about doing a “healthy” firehouse cookbook. Another NYC Firefighter, John Sineno, had pub-lished a New York Times best selling cookbook in 1984. A proposal and sample recipes were sent to the editor and The Healthy Firehouse Cookbook was published. Bonanno will bring his rugged good looks and charm to the event this year and is sure to heat things up a little.

Bonanno has appeared several times on Live with Regis, Martha Stewart, The Today Show, Good Morning America, FOX N.Y. and many others. He has been featured in the New York Times, The Daily News, Eating Well and Bon Appetite. When he retired from his work as a firefighter, Bonanno received his Culinary/Chefs Degree with honors from the Culinary Academy of Long Island. He later did internships at two of Long Island’s top restaurants. Most recently, several producers have approached Bonanno about doing a Firehouse cooking show, with a set resembling a

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 51

THE FIREHOUSE CHEFNYC Firehouse. While waiting for that opportunity, Bonanno gives culinary demon-strations, and offers nutrition and fitness classes for the fire service. He has also been a spokesperson for Ronzoni, Sorrento Cheese, Butterball Turkey, Johnson and Johnson and more.

The event also includes a silent auction that typically includes some great prizes. In the past, there have been several unique vacation opportunities, trips to day spas, golfing, dinner and dining at restaurants from Tampa to Orlando, and weekend getaways to local beaches. There’s something for everyone.

In addition to the new celebrity chef, the Food Bank has partnered with Focus Magazine to extend the event. The Thursday prior to the 2012 event (this year that’s February 16th) has traditionally been used by Focus Magazine to host their Annual Reader’s Choice Awards. People from the community have voted on their favorite restaurants in several different categories and Focus Magazine uses that Thursday evening to crown the winners. The evening also serves as the monthly After Hours celebration with the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce. This is usually one of the largest Thursday night gatherings of the year with a few hundred people on hand to have some fun.

The Publisher of Focus Magazine, Mike Floyd, joined the committee this year and thought it might be a great idea to partner with the Food Bank to help build on the Celebrity Chef event, and use the Thursday night turnout as a way to help the Food Bank even more. So this year, guests will have an opportunity to help the Food Bank by making donations of food and/or money as they enter the Annual Reader’s Choice Awards. For the past two years, the event has been held at the Keel and Curley Winery at the corner of Thonotosassa and Branch Forbes Roads. There is live entertainment and great food from some of our local favorites.

This pairing between Focus Magazine and the Food Bank hould prove to be a great partnership. Of course, there’s no obligation for anyone to make donations, but just imagine the impact of a few hundred people each making small contributions to such an important cause could effect. It could be as simple as just bringing a simple can of soup to donate to those in need. How quickly something like that can add up and make such a positive impact in the lives of those who really have the need.

There are sponsorship opportunities at several levels: the Presenting Sponsor ($10,000.00) has been sold to Unity in the Community, and many thanks to them for their generous support. Celebrity Chef Sponsors are $7500.00 with interaction with chef from stage, Platinum Sponsor $5000.00, Gold Sponsor $2500.00, Silver Sponsor $1250.00 and Bronze Sponsor $1000.00.

There will also be a VIP Dinner held on Friday night, February 17, 2012 at the home of Larry & Cathy Jimenez, which is located on the east shore of Lake Thonotosassa in the Stone Lake Ranch subdivision. Anyone with a sponsorship level of $1250.00 or more will be invited to attend. Bonanno will attend the event, possibly making some special appetizers for guests, along with other foods for tasting. Guests certainly won’t leave hungry.

There are so many opportunities for others to be involved in this effort. If you’re inter-ested in attending the Annual Reader’s Choice Awards, feel free to show up and bring a donation for the Food Bank.

If you’re interested in attending and/or becoming a sponsor for the Celebrity Chef Din-ner, please contact the United Food Bank of Plant City at 813-757-9809. You may also contact Marsha Passmore, the event Chair, at [email protected].


http://consolidatedpestcontrol.com


GYM RENOVATIONS AND MORECOMMUNITY CARE CENTER

BUSINESS » BUSINESS PROFILE

Operating since 1963, the Community Care Center in Plant City is a skilled nursing facility with 120 beds,

specializing in short-term rehab as well as long term care.

Many people assume this facility is strictly a nursing home; however, the staff at Community Care is dedicated to rehabilitation services to help anyone get back to recovery. In the event a person needs more help and just cannot live an independent life, long-term care is an option.

To help their residents achieve the highest quality of care, Community Care Center has made a major renovation in the gym where all of their therapy needs are met. In the past, the gym was operating in a 900 square foot room, with a tight squeeze for the therapists to get their patents in to work on the exercises they need. With a new room size of 2,000 square feet, the therapists at Community Care Center are finding much enjoyment helping their patients with more space.

They participate in the “Freedom Through Functionality” program utilizing the top-of-the-line Nautilus equipment. This equipment helps the therapists work with geriatric patients for strengthening techniques and is also capable to help

those with compromising situations that can‘t normally get on and off the equipment with ease. It also offers an alternative way of using the equipment to meet each individual need. These machines also show progress for each individual patient with a gauging and tracking system. When a patient is admitted, they are given a test to show their functionality. Throughout their stay, a therapist will show them their functionality progress in an easy to read graph. The therapist works diligently to help each therapy patient to progress in order to get them ready to go back home. The progress is then printed out for the patient to take with them to their next doctor’s appointment.

An added feature to the gym is a therapy kitchen to help those that need the occupational therapy to relearn how to do the daily activities of life that at one time seemed to come naturally. Rio Theodore, a therapist at Community Care Center, smiled as he told the story of one patient being able to make a cheesecake in the therapy kitchen. It seems to be a big hit at the center.

When asked about the difference between the old gym and the new one, Rio replied, “All of the therapists feel we have plenty of working space to get our clients to prior functioning or even better from when they

WRITTEN BY: DEANA BENNETT GARRISON | PHOTOS BY: JULIE HASTING

first came in.“ The Center has put a lot of thought into the needs of their residents.

The center offers several different therapeutic management care programs, which include continence, wounds, falls

and balance, diabetic treatments, joint replacement, and stroke recovery.

The renovations do not stop there. Community Care Center will continue to renovate this year throughout their center to make it the very best center around.

Conveniently located a few blocks down from South Florida Baptist Hospital and across the street from the Strawberry Festival at 2202 West Oak Avenue, Community Care Center accepts Medicare and most managed care insurances.

To take a tour in this fine facility, contact Linda Dunn, Admissions and Business Development Director, at 813-754-3761. Visit their website at www.communitycarehealthandrehab.com

2202 WEST OAK AVENUE PLANT CITY, FL 33563-7299(813) 754-3761WEBSITE:COMMUNITYCAREHEALTHANDREHAB.COM

CRITICAL INFORMATION


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for Reservations Today!

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

MRS. EVELYN MADONIAOWNER

Show Guests – ask about ourspecial overnight room rates!

JANUARY 14THE CONTOURSPerforming their hits, including: Do You Love Me, in the Red RoseBallroom. Johnny Alston’s Motown Rock ‘n Roll Review also per-forms. Call for our tiered pricing for this fabulous dinner show!

JANUARY 14, 27 & 28RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room.

JANUARY 20BOBBY PALERMOPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Destiny.

JANUARY 21BRIAN ROMANOne of Canada’s finest entertainers! Roman performs the classics –spanning the Golden Era, ranging from Sinatra to Tom Jones.Destiny also performs.

JANUARY 27RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room.

JANUARY 28BEAUTIFUL BOBBY BLACKMON& THE B3 BLUES BANDBobby Blackmon's career began in a small town not far from theDallas, Texas area. His Texas blues influence is heard loud ‘n’ proud inhis soulful guitar playing. He's worked with the likes of Barbara Lynn,Jimmy Reed, ZZ Hill, Johnny Taylor, Lavelle White and Lou Rawls.Destiny opens and closes in the Red Rose Dining Room.

JANUARY 28THE VAN DELLSWITH THE LAS VEGAS SOUNDSBack by popular demand. This trio is a fireball of entertainment andnot to be missed! The Las Vegas Sounds also perform. Dinner servedin a supper-club atmosphere in the Red Rose Ballroom.

FEBRUARY 3BOBBY PALERMOPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Destiny.

FEBRUARY 4 & 17JOHNNY ALSTON’S - MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! Plus, Destiny performs beforeand after the show.

FEBRUARY 10WALT MADDOX - TRIBUTE TO NAT KING COLEWalt Maddox performs all of Nat's greatest hits. He started out inthe early '60s with The Marcels. His tribute to Nat has performedto sold out crowds nationwide.

FEBRUARY 11 & 25RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room.

FEBRUARY 11THE FOUR PREPS- A VALENTINE EVENT

Bring your special someone for a romantic dinnerand show. The chart topping group will be per-forming their hits. The Las Vegas Sounds will alsoperform in the Red Rose Ballroom.

FEBRUARY 18TROY “SATCHMO”ANDERSON- TRIBUTE TO LOUIS ARMSTRONG

Troy Anderson on trumpet as “Satchmo,” atribute to Louis Armstrong. Plus, a 3 hour setfrom The Wonderful World Band with the sameinstrumentation as Armstrong's bands. Destinyopens and closes.

FEBRUARY 24

BRIAN ROMANOne of Canada’s finest entertainers! Romanperforms the classics – spanning the Golden Era,ranging from Sinatra to Tom Jones.Destiny also performs.

FEBRUARY 25

THE FABULOUSHUBCAPSCome and hear one of the nation’s most soughtafter oldies’ bands. Their music spans generationsof some of the top hits of our time. The Las VegasSounds also perform in the Red Rose Ballroom.Dinner served in a supperclub atmosphere.

MARCH 2BOBBY PALERMOPerforming in the Red RoseDining Room, plus Destiny.

MARCH 3JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

MARCH 9 & 17RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red RoseDining Room.

– Coming Soon! –

MARCH 23-24DOOWOP WEEKENDEXTRAVAGANZA VI

MARCH 24BOB RYMAN “THE FIDDLER”APRIL 14THE JARMELS

APRIL 28“SIMPLY STREISAND”

YYDonʼt forget

Valentine’s Day.Enjoy our specialValentine Show onFebruary 11th

RRCalendar_Jan2012:Layout 1 1/6/12 1:42 PM Page 1

http://redroseinnandsuites.com


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Call 813.752.3141for Reservations Today!

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

MRS. EVELYN MADONIAOWNER

Show Guests – ask about ourspecial overnight room rates!

JANUARY 14THE CONTOURSPerforming their hits, including: Do You Love Me, in the Red RoseBallroom. Johnny Alston’s Motown Rock ‘n Roll Review also per-forms. Call for our tiered pricing for this fabulous dinner show!

JANUARY 14, 27 & 28RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room.

JANUARY 20BOBBY PALERMOPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Destiny.

JANUARY 21BRIAN ROMANOne of Canada’s finest entertainers! Roman performs the classics –spanning the Golden Era, ranging from Sinatra to Tom Jones.Destiny also performs.

JANUARY 27RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room.

JANUARY 28BEAUTIFUL BOBBY BLACKMON& THE B3 BLUES BANDBobby Blackmon's career began in a small town not far from theDallas, Texas area. His Texas blues influence is heard loud ‘n’ proud inhis soulful guitar playing. He's worked with the likes of Barbara Lynn,Jimmy Reed, ZZ Hill, Johnny Taylor, Lavelle White and Lou Rawls.Destiny opens and closes in the Red Rose Dining Room.

JANUARY 28THE VAN DELLSWITH THE LAS VEGAS SOUNDSBack by popular demand. This trio is a fireball of entertainment andnot to be missed! The Las Vegas Sounds also perform. Dinner servedin a supper-club atmosphere in the Red Rose Ballroom.

FEBRUARY 3BOBBY PALERMOPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Destiny.

FEBRUARY 4 & 17JOHNNY ALSTON’S - MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! Plus, Destiny performs beforeand after the show.

FEBRUARY 10WALT MADDOX - TRIBUTE TO NAT KING COLEWalt Maddox performs all of Nat's greatest hits. He started out inthe early '60s with The Marcels. His tribute to Nat has performedto sold out crowds nationwide.

FEBRUARY 11 & 25RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room.

FEBRUARY 11THE FOUR PREPS- A VALENTINE EVENT

Bring your special someone for a romantic dinnerand show. The chart topping group will be per-forming their hits. The Las Vegas Sounds will alsoperform in the Red Rose Ballroom.

FEBRUARY 18TROY “SATCHMO”ANDERSON- TRIBUTE TO LOUIS ARMSTRONG

Troy Anderson on trumpet as “Satchmo,” atribute to Louis Armstrong. Plus, a 3 hour setfrom The Wonderful World Band with the sameinstrumentation as Armstrong's bands. Destinyopens and closes.

FEBRUARY 24

BRIAN ROMANOne of Canada’s finest entertainers! Romanperforms the classics – spanning the Golden Era,ranging from Sinatra to Tom Jones.Destiny also performs.

FEBRUARY 25

THE FABULOUSHUBCAPSCome and hear one of the nation’s most soughtafter oldies’ bands. Their music spans generationsof some of the top hits of our time. The Las VegasSounds also perform in the Red Rose Ballroom.Dinner served in a supperclub atmosphere.

MARCH 2BOBBY PALERMOPerforming in the Red RoseDining Room, plus Destiny.

MARCH 3JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

MARCH 9 & 17RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red RoseDining Room.

– Coming Soon! –

MARCH 23-24DOOWOP WEEKENDEXTRAVAGANZA VI

MARCH 24BOB RYMAN “THE FIDDLER”APRIL 14THE JARMELS

APRIL 28“SIMPLY STREISAND”

YYDonʼt forget

Valentine’s Day.Enjoy our specialValentine Show onFebruary 11th

RRCalendar_Jan2012:Layout 1 1/6/12 1:42 PM Page 1

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Plant City Offi ce1804 James L. Redman Pkwy., Plant City, FL 33563

Telephone (813) 659-1234 | Fax (813) 659-9134

LOCAL OWNERS • LOCAL DECISIONS

Lobby Hours: Monday –Thursday 9:00am – 4:00 pm Friday 9:00am – 6:00pmDrive Thru Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00am – 6:00 pm

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Other Locations: Brandon, Lakeland, Tampa, and Winter Haven

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TACKLING TAXES BEFORE THEY TACKLE YOUIn our view, the most important potential

changes for individual investors are the automatic increases in income, dividends

and capital gains taxes, which could reduce your after-tax income. So what should you do?

You may not need to make changes – Tax increases would apply to a variety of investments, including stocks and bonds. So we believe investors who own an appropriate mix of investments in a variety of accounts with different tax treatments probably shouldn’t need to adjust their overall asset allocation or sell investments.

You may want to consider changes – Possible tax rate changes may make potential tax-saving strategies more attractive than in the past for some investors. And even if taxes don’t change now, there are strategies that may be appropriate to help you prepare for the

potential for rising taxes in the future.

TAKE STEPS TO PREPAREWe don’t know what will happen to taxes in the future – no one does. However, we think it’s important to prepare and to continue to invest for the long term, despite the short-term tax uncertainty. Since taxes on stock and bond returns will likely be higher, you probably don’t need to change your investment mix, but your after-tax income may shrink.

Investing involves uncertainties, and taxes are one of them. We believe you should address this just as you would any other uncertainty – by working to reduce your risk. You can do this by owning a variety of investments with different tax treatments to help reduce the impact of each tax change.

BUSINESS » EDWARD JONES

SUBMITTED BY: EDWARD JONES

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BUSINESS » SUCCESS

DR. HOWARD HOWELL, DDS 1. WHAT INSPIRES YOU? Being given the responsibility to guide the health and dental development of generations of children and young men and women has been a great inspiration to me. Seeing the successes of our past patients who are now living and working in our community and having been a small part of their early years inspires me to continue my involvement.

2. WHAT ARE YOUR ASPIRATIONS?The staff at the Tooth Caboose and I have always aspired to provide the absolute highest level of individualized dental care for each patient. Employing cutting edge techniques in orthodontics and pediatric dentistry, we always place the patients dental and emotional well being as our primary goal.

3. WHAT ARE YOUR GREATEST SUCCESSES?My greatest successes have come in the confidence shown by our previous patients when they return with their

children requesting that we manage their orthodontic and pediatric dental care. We have been blessed in this way, having treated three generations in a number of families.

4. WHAT DO YOU HAVE PLANNED FOR THE FUTURE?Today I enjoy practicing orthodontics as much as I did when we opened the Tooth Caboose office 34 years ago. My plan for the future is to welcome the fourth generation of patients into the Tooth Caboose family.

5. HOW DID YOU GET INTO BUSINESS?Returning home to Plant City to open my practice was an easy decision. Being able to contribute to the community where I was born and grew up was very important to me. In the early 1980s we purchased the 1929 Missouri Pacific Railroad caboose and named it the Tooth Caboose. The concept was to introduce a non threatening dental atmosphere for our younger children.

TOOTH CABOOSE

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We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our clients for their loyalty and support. We look forward to

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BUSINESS » SUCCESS

COURTNEY PAATHOW DID YOU GET INTO THE BUSINESS YOU ARE IN NOW?I majored in Risk Management/Insurance at FSU and was recruited by State Farm to work as an Underwriter. Almost 13 years ago, I moved to Plant City and opened my agency.

WHAT DO YOU HAVE PLANNED FOR YOUR FUTURE?Both the agency and my family keep me pretty busy. In just a few weeks, I plan to run the Warrior Dash. It’s not very often us 40-somethings get to go play in the mud!

WHAT ARE YOUR GREATEST SUCCESSES?My pride and joy are my 2 daughters, Kalei & Melia. They are why I work so hard

at getting it right. I am also very proud of my agency team. Every day they give everything they have to our clients. They are the best in the business!

WHAT ARE YOUR ASPIRATIONS?To continue to provide unparalleled, remarkable insurance experiences, to be a role model to my children and other business professionals, and to take a vacation…

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?Positive, forward-thinking people. I love to hang out with and learn from business people who are creative thinkers.

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GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD!Wonderful 3 bedroom 2 bath home in established North Lakeland neighbor-hood. Open plan with volume ceilings and large kitchen. Not a short sale! Asking just $94,900.

BANK APPROVED DREAM!Stunning 5 bedroom 4 bath home on beautiful secluded lot with no deed restrictions. Gourmet kitchen, real wood fl ooring, volume ceilings and so much more. Call today to see this incredible home. Bank approved price of $335,000.

DON’T MISS THIS ONE!Built in 2008, this 2 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath two story condo is located in a wonderful community and is waiting for you! Enjoy an open fl oor plan with large kitchen, real wood cabinets, and so much more! Short sale, asking just $59,000.

BEAUTIFUL TOWNHOMEShort sale. Absolutely beautiful 2 bedroom 2 bath town home in Chelsea Oaks. Gourmet kitchen, large master suite and many upgrades. Asking $95,500.

...Selling Hillsborough and Polk

REALTOR® Notary

Team Wainoris

Randall Wainoris 813-997-3000Randall Wainoris 813-997-3000

Kathleen Wainoris 863-608-1557Kathleen Wainoris 863-608-1557REALTOR®/Attorney at Law

Multi-Million Dollar Producers

[email protected] | www.teamwainoris.com

Did you know that according to the latest housing data released by Florida Realtors®, Florida’s existing home and existing condo sales continued its positive upswing in November? (*December data was not yet available) Existing home sales increased 11 percent last month with a total of 12,993 homes sold statewide compared to 11,664 homes sold in November 2010!

“It’s really clear that two things are happening in Florida real estate,” said Florida Realtors Chief Economist Dr. John Tuccillo. “No. 1, sales are moving upward – not by a large increase, but defi nitely, positively on an upward trend. Second, prices are stabilizing. Now, it doesn’t mean that prices have turned around but they are stabilizing, and that’s vital for the market to gain equilibrium.”

In fact, seventeen of Florida’s metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) reported higher existing home sales in November; and 10 MSAs had higher existing condo sales too!

Did you also know that according to Freddie Mac, the interest rate for a 30-year fi xed-rate mortgage averaged 3.99 percent in November, down from the 4.30 percent average during the same month a year earlier? Rates are at the lowest levels in history!

According to the experts, it looks like 2012 is going to be a great year for Florida Real Estate! That is great news for all of us! Here at Team Wainoris, we are really excited about 2012! Thinking about buying or selling? With interest rates and prices so low, 2012 may be best time for you to make your move! Call us here at Team Wainoris; let us help make your 2012 the best year ever!

2012 WILL BE A GREAT YEAR!

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813.707.62001507 S. Alexander St. Suite 101


PCM

PLANT CITY M O R T G A G E C O R P W W W .P L A N T C I T Y M O R T G A G E S . C O M NMLS 289323

Natasha Davis Vice President- Offi ce Manager

Nate DavisPresident- Loan Offi cer

Carol BartonAdministrator

Sherri JudahAdministrator

Brandi Carlough Administrator

Paul Pritt Loan Offi cer

Tom RoeLoan Offi cer

Barbara HallLoan Offi cer

Duane MadillLoan Offi cer

Stephanie Donalson Swindle

Loan Offi cer

Jaida DavisOffi ce Assistant

Paitlyn Davis Offi ce Assistant

Buster DavisSecurityhttp://www.youtube.com/user/PLANTCITYMORTGAGE

When my wife Angela and I purchased our new home in July of 2011, there was never any doubt

as to who we would use to help us with our fi nancing. Nate and Natasha Davis and their staff at

Plant City Mortgage were fantastic to work with and made the process as smooth as we could ever

imagine. Nate is extremely professional and continuously kept us up to date throughout. There were

never any surprises and we were treated as if we were important to them.

Buying a home is usually the single largest purchase a person makes, so it’s important that you deal

with people and companies that you can trust. We whole heartedly recommend the Davis’ and Plant

City Mortgage to anyone wishing to secure fi nancing for their new home.

Sincerely,Chris & Angela Sparkman

My Husband and I used Plant City Mortgage to help us secure our mortgage on our current home,

and I can not say enough good things about Nate Davis and his staff. They were so wonderful

throughout the process. Nate was very responsive and he is extremely knowledgeable about not only

mortgages but also credit scores, current market conditions and just the entire home buying pro-

cess as a whole. Nate really went above and beyond, even calling one of my creditors on my behalf

to resolve and dispute, derogatory record that was on my credit report and negatively affecting my

FICO score. Nate really does care about his clients, and I can say without any reservations that I

highly recommend Plant City Mortgage to anyone looking to refi nance or buy and home!!

Sincerely,Kristy Soldati

My husband and I recently purchased a home and Nate Davis was recommended to us by our realtor. We are so glad he was, working with Nate truly was the easiest part of buying our new home. Nate was very informative and walked us through the steps of preparing to buy a home. He answered all of our questions quickly and thoroughly. Nate made a very stressful time less so by keeping us informed. If anyone out there is thinking of purchasing a home I would highly recommend working with Nate. He will fi nd you the best mortgage rate out there and take care of your loan from start to fi nish.

Sincerely,Scott & Georgeann Weaver

http://plantcitymortgages.com


REAL ESTATEThanks to Trulia, I am sharing with

you some 2012 predictions for the Real Estate Market. No matter the

prediction, real estate is local and change will affect each market/area differently. Nonetheless, some of these are global and I believe we will see and feel these effects as well.

DELINQUENCIES WILL GO DOWN, BUT FORECLOSURES WILL GO UP.

Fewer borrowers will fall behind on their payments next year, thanks to the strengthening economy and refinancings. The share of delinquent borrowers is already down more than a quarter from the peak a couple of years ago. But many borrowers who fell behind on their payments during the housing crisis are still in limbo: last year’s robo-signing controversy threw a wrench in the gears of the foreclosure process. That means that some delinquent loans haven’t yet gone through the foreclosure process. Once a settlement is reached with banks over robo-signing, we’ll see a new wave of foreclosures and foreclosure sales.

RENTS WILL RISE – WHICH IS A BAD THING.

With fewer people buying homes and more people losing their homes to foreclosures, rental demand is increasing. High rents will hold back economic growth if businesses can’t pay workers enough to have a roof over their heads. Squeezed city-dwellers won’t get relief until late 2012: that’s when a wave of new multi-unit construction projects that

started late this year will be completed and available for rent. To tackle growth-killing high living costs in the priciest cities head on, local governments need to get rid of height restrictions and arduous permitting processes, which hold back urban construction and push development to the suburbs.

MORTGAGE RATES WILL INCH UP – WHICH WILL PROBABLY BE A GOOD THING.

A stronger economy will push Treasury bonds and mortgage rates up because inflation becomes more likely and investors demand higher rates to hold bonds. But lots of factors can push rates up or down. For the housing market, which direction rates go is less important than why. Gradual economic recovery is good news for the housing market even if it means higher mortgage rates – because higher mortgage rates should go hand-in-hand with greater housing demand.

GOVERNMENT WILL SIT ON ITS HANDS.

In election years, politicians don’t take risks: they’re more talk and less action, so don’t expect any bold housing policy reforms next year. What’s more, with the housing market now recovering, we’re not in enough of a crisis to force political opponents together. Instead, in 2012 we’ll see the effects of modest housing proposals from this year: easier refinancing under the expanded HARP program, and more government-owned homes coming to market for sale or rent. But the bitter debate in Washington over the budget deficit and debt will continue.

REAL ESTATE » JO-ANN LUSK

SUBMITTED BY: JO-ANN LUSK

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PLANT CITY

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

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RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

1513 Jim Redman Parkway, Plant CityCall us for your

Residential, Commercial, and Property Management Needs

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

Over 2 ½ acres, 4 BR and 2 BA, brand new 3 stall barn with tack room and additional storage, and kennels with AC and cement and chain link runs. . Well kept and spacious. Land is dry, but has small spring fed pond in rear of property for your animals. Just off SR 39 on Bruton Rd…10 minutes to I-4. Call Maggie Beard, 813-299-7155. MLS T2487283. $169,900

BRUTON ROAD

Nice 3/2 double wide mobile home on 2.66 acres. Lots of upgrades. 30 x 30 double garage with electric built in 2007. Roof replaced in 2008. A/C replaced in 2010 with new duct work under home. Plus a whole lot more. Call Cathy Casey @ 813-727-4131. MLS T2498228, $169,900

DORMANY ROAD

Sweet lit tle house right of HWY 60, new roof, new fence, new dual pane windows, big workshop and additional storage building. One owner and well loved home. Ideal rental property, possible owner finance. Call Maggie Beard, 813-299-7155. MLS T2487179, $ 80,000

WILLIS ROAD

Newly remodeled end unit condo with bath upgrades, extra windows for that bright cheery feeling. Deck overlooking conservation area with plenty of privacy and security. New roof just completed, AC in 2005. Home is move-in ready. Priced to sell, and close at buyer’s convenience. Not a short sale. Call Jimmie Robinson, 813-390-6441. MLS T2500493, $129,900

Waterfront and conservation location! Enjoy the Florida lifestyle! Unique “single family” detached “condo”. Freshly painted, new ceramic tile and carpet. “Energy Star” Country Manor aluminum roof installed in “07. Private gated community within Walden Lake. Site condo approved for FHA fi nancing. 1 year AHS home warranty. Call Maddie Alford, 813-382-8382. MLS T2500710, $185,000.

This beautiful 2 story home with mother-in-law apartment and barn invite you to come in and enjoy the “Southern Charm”. This home is “country living” at its best! Take your bike, horse, or stroll to the State Deer Reserve just moments away or simply relax and enjoy nature at its best. Call today for an appointment. Call Jimmie, 813-390-6441. MLS T2486423, $650,000

WALDEN LAKE/PRESERVE WALDEN LAKE/LAUREL LAKE BAILEY ROAD

Historic 3 bedroom 2 bath home in Plant City’s historic district. Brick streets and sidewalks take you on a short walk to downtown. Priced to sell! Call Jimmie for more information, 813-390-6441. MLS T2491577, $89,900

New Commercial listing with six buildings on four acres in the city limits of Plant City. City sewer. Property is currently rented with additional space available. Property is visible from main traffi c on Alexander Street. Call Jimmie, 813-390-6441. MLS T2500816, $595,000.

Classy country home located on private oak covered 1.5 acres in non-deed restrictive subdivision. Great room w/stacked stone fi replace, vaulted ceilings, formal dining, bonus study/den. Over sized 3 car garage, with additional parking pad and workshop. Lots of room for big boy toys. Great location, highly rated schools. 1 year AHS home warranty included. Call Maddie today, 813-382-8382. MLS T2494972, $249,000

HISTORIC STREET SAMMONDS ROAD/COMM’L CARSON OAKS

WE ARE HERE TO SERVE YOU!

Cute as a button 2 bedroom, den, 1 bath home in excellent condition. 1 car garage and 1 car carport. Move-in ready. Owner is moving out of state - NOT a short sale. Close quick! Ask for Jimmie, 813-390-6441. MLS T2492977, $78,000

PRICED TO SELL!

This home is now set up with 3 bedrooms, a den and a bonus room that could be the 4th bedroom if needed. The 3.5 bathrooms are more than adequate with several showers and even an antique tub in the master suite. The spacious 2,756heated sq ft are protected with a 6 year old roof and a 3 year old A/C. The pool is completely screened and can be entered from french doors leading off the master suite, family room or the updated kitchen. The pool area leads to a newly constructed outdoor kitchen including a fi replace, grill, refrigerator, sink and sit-down bar. If you are looking for that one-of-a-kind home, this is the one for you. Call Jimmie today, 813-390-6441. MLS T2485186, now $299,500

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The Walden Lake Community Association Board Meetings are the third Monday of each month at 6:00

PM at the Walden Lake Community Association office building on Griffin Boulevard in Walden Lake. The next meeting will be February 20th. The meetings are open to all Walden Lake residents.

Walden Lake neighborhood and entrances were decked out in bright lights and beautiful designs for the holidays. The judging of the entrances by the Walden Lake Homeowners Association Board of Directors took place on December 10th and 11th. Following are the winners:

For Small Entries, Fairway Estates took 1st place, with Silverlake and Wedgewood in 2nd and 3rd place. Laurel Lake took 1st place for Large Entries, with the Paddocks and Sutton Woods in 2nd and 3rd place. Honorable Mention was given to Clubhouse Woods, Forest Club and Emerald Forest. The Board thanks all who participated and helped make Walden Lake “shine” during the holidays.

In Walden Lake and Walden Lake East, there were 101 sales in 2011. The highest priced sale was $325,000 in Hampton Place and the lowest sale was $63,500 in Walden Lake East. The average sale price in 2011 was $157,167. Eleven homes sold for less than $100,000 and 14 sold for over $200,000. The average number of days on the market was 158, with the average list to sale price at 95%. The list to sale price is the list price of the home at the time it went pending contract and does not take into account any price reductions from

when it was listed. There are currently 52 active listings ranging from $84,600 to $869,900 and 19 listings pending contract.

Due to work and time constraints, Frank Salerno resigned from the HOA Board of Directors after 10 years of service. In the past years, he has served as President, Secretary and active Board Member. The Board will miss his expertise and knowledge. In his place, the Board has appointed Ray Page to fill this vacancy. Ray is a longtime resident of Wedgewood and currently serves as the Wedgewood President.

The Homeowners Association will hold its election of Board of Directors at the Annual Meeting in April. If you have an interest or know someone who would make a great Board Member, please contact Heather Updike at [email protected] prior to February 1st.

The food drive continues and any nonperishable food donations are appreciated and can be dropped off at the HOA office Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Walden Lake Golf & Country Club wants to thank everyone for their success in 2011. Currently, there are Ladies Clinics on Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m., and Junior Clinics on Saturdays at 9:00 a.m.. You can sign up ahead of time to be sure you can join in or you can sign up the day of the clinic. Dinners in the main dining room are on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays, and the 2nd and 4th Fridays of each month. A full calendar of events is posted on the website, www.waldenlakegolf.com. Come out and see all the improvements.

REAL ESTATE » WALDEN LAKE

WALDEN LAKEREVIEWSUBMITTED BY: NATALIE SWEET

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Natalie SweetNatalie SweetREALTOR®

813-758-9586

Angel MillerAngel MillerREALTOR®

813-546-9863

Cathy MartinCathy MartinREALTOR®

813-376-0891

Natalie SweetNatalie SweetREALTOR®

813-758-9586

Angel MillerAngel MillerREALTOR®

813-546-9863

Cathy MartinCathy MartinREALTOR®

813-376-0891

EASY TOWNHOME LIVINGLive the easy life in this 3 bedroom townhome featuring beautiful kitchen, 2 1/2 baths, 1649 sq’ living area and so much more. It’s a short sale at $79,900. Call to take your tour today!

STEP INTO LUXURYGlass doors open into the grand foyer of this elegant custom home. Oversized dining room. Florida room directly off the huge great room w/ gas fi replace. Media room complete w/ built in speaker system & bar. This home has it all and on over 1 acre. $559,000

LOVELY WALDEN LAKE POOL HOMEGreat 4 BR/3BA/3CG home w/ offi ce/den. Features solar hot water, energy effi cient thermostat & extra insulation blown in contribute to very low electric bills for this home. Sitting room in master bedroom, solar heated pool. $269,900

COUNTRY LIVING IN THE CITYLush Landscaping frames this beautiful home on 3/4 Acre. 3 Bedroom, 2 1/2 Bath, Family Room w/fi replace, loft that overlooks the family room, large screened pool and huge fenced yard. $199,900

GOLF COURSE HOMEAs you enter through the glass doors you will notice the love & care this home has had. Quality remodeled kitchen w/Alder wood cabinets, huge lanai w/large bar, pavers, & beautiful pool w/a great view. $239,900

WALDEN LAKE WONDERFUL4 Bedroom 2 Bath home in the Spring Meadow neighborhood of Walden Lake. Featuring a living/dining room, real wood fl oors, and huge fenced back yard. A must see at only $142,500

RANCH STYLE COUNTRY LIVINGBring the horses & other livestock! Looking for peace and quiet? 8.3 A with Key West style home, metal roof & wrap around porch surrounded by beautiful oak trees. 24X48 Barn/Wkshop & fenced. $279,900

WALDEN OAKS AFFORDABLE!You will love the easy living in this 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath home w/updated Kitchen, new AC in 2010 and more. Enjoy the patio setting with built in spa, and screened lanai. Priced at an affordable $119,900.

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MORTGAGE RATESBelow is a simple formula that

illustrates how the end user mortgage interest rate is determined.

Mortgage Backed Securities Coupon Rates (The interest rate market)Plus

Lending Institution overhead/costs to market and originate a loan to the publicPlus

Any product rate adjustments for misc features (credit score, equity, etc)

= Final Rate to the consumer

When you hear that rates have improved or worsened, this means that the Mortgage Backed Securities have changed. The portion of the equation where a consumer can really benefit is through proper mortgage planning to ensure any product rate adjustments are minimal (improving

credit, down payments, etc) and also shopping for their mortgage as there can be drastic differences in overhead thru various lending platforms (bank/lender/credit union/mortgage company).Independent Mortgage Companies and Brokers align themselves with a number of various lenders who provide loans to the publics via the “wholesale” channel. The benefit to the lender is that they can get their money to the public with the least overhead, since they only pay the originating mortgage company a fee when a loan is delivered.

Mortgage companies are able to pass this costs savings on the borrower via a lower rate or lower costs. The mortgage company is paid a fee from the lender when the loan is issued similar to how a car insurance agent shops for insurance rates for their customer, yet the customer does not pay them a separate invoice.

REAL ESTATE » MORTGAGE

SUBMITTED BY: NATE DAVIS

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APARTMENTSFOR THE ELDERLYOne bedroom Apartments • Rent based on income

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Plant City, FL 33563813.659.2669

Applications available at each location


8 ACRES

BIGGER IS BETTER… 6 BIG Bedrooms, 3 Baths, 4048 Sq Ft Home on 8 Acres in North East Plant City. Built in 2005. Open Floor Plan. Completely Tiled. Gorgeous Kitchen. Fireplace. Screened Porch. Metal Roof. Small Barn and Pole Barn. Large Screened Patio. Greenbelted. $460,000

1.6 ACRES

NEW CONSTRUCTION… 5 Bedroom, 3 Bath, 3 Car Garage Home. Al-most 3,000 Sq Ft. Just Completed. Granite Counters. 42” Cabinets. Stainless Steel Appliances. Beautiful 18” Tile throughout except Bedrooms. Very Open Floor Plan with 3-Way Split. Triple Sliders. Wonderful Neighborhood of Executive Style Homes. Builder will pay Closing Costs! $269,000

SOLD

WALDEN LAKE: 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Pool Home with 1801 Sq Ft on Large Corner Lot. Upgraded Kitchen with Granite Counters and Stainless Steel Appliances. Fireplace. Short Sale. Home Needs New Roof and Other Repairs. $137,500.

1 ACRE

NEW CONSTRUCTION… 5 Bedroom, 3 Bath, 3 Car Garage Home. Al-most 2,600 Sq Ft. Just Completed. Granite Counters. 42” Cabinets. Stainless Steel Appliances. Beautiful 18” Tile throughout except Bedrooms. Very Open Floor Plan with 4-Way Split. Triple Sliders. Wonderful Neighborhood of Executive Style Homes. Builder will pay Closing Costs! $249,000

New Look...

Same Great Service!

Lorraine BennettYOUR Plant City Realtor

Lorraine Ben

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

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Strengthening Our Community 10 Years Strong!

HERE FOR OURCOMMUNITY10th Birthday CelebrationSaturday, February 1810:00am-4:00pm at the Plant City YMCA

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AT A CROSSROAD IN HIS LIFE“I didn’t pick Plant City,” said Karate

instructor Chris Welbon, “Plant City picked me. I grew up in

Brandon and I live in Dade City. So, it doesn’t make sense that I would start a business in Plant City. But, when I tried other areas, it just didn’t work. I tried South Tampa and I tried Lakeland, but nothing really worked out. Every time I did something in Plant City, however, it worked and so everything just sort of fell into place. That’s why I’m here.”

Chris Welbon Karate Clubs is now a popular martial arts academy with more than 175 students from the ages of four to sixty-four who take weekly classes to they progress at their own pace. They learn self-defense skills, self-discipline, and confidence while relieving stress. They also work at making the mind and body strong as they exercise, spar and compete in Shotokan Karate. Shotokan is a style of Karate for which training is divided into three parts: kihon (basics), kata (forms or patterns of moves), and kumite (sparring).

When Chris Welbon started in martial arts at the age of eight, he initially was

trained in Tae-Kwon-Do. By the time he was 16, he had earned his black belt. Welbon continued to train and eventually transitioned to Karate, where he earned another black belt. In high school, he became an instructor but was still heavily involved in competing. He was a member of the United States Karate team and won a couple of medals at the World Karate Championships in 1998.

Following high school, Welbon attended Hillsborough Community College. After graduation, he came to a crossroad in his life.

“I had plans to become a physical therapist, but I really enjoyed Karate. So, I decided to try to make a living at it. I theorized that if I didn’t make it, I could always go back to college later. It was then that I decided to put all my efforts into Karate. Since then I’ve had a lot of help. My wife has been a tremendous blessing and a great partner working behind the scenes in my business.”

Chris has been married to his wife Carmen for 15 years. They have two daughters. The oldest, Olivia (9) has an orange belt and is also involved in

gymnastics, and the youngest Aubrey is five.

Welbon has strategically provided a club that is unique. “The thing that makes us different is that we emphasize a family atmosphere where we try to care for one another. Our core value is God. I really believe what really drives our business, even in the hard times, is our emphasis on God. Every day before class we pray, we have Bible verses that we memorize, and we give glory to Him everyday.”

To those who say that Martial Arts has its roots in Eastern religions and philosophies, Welbon counters, “We’ve removed all of the Eastern religious philosophies but have kept the art, the techniques, and the skills. We have inserted Christian beliefs in place of the Eastern beliefs. The key is that regardless of the belief system behind the sport, a person can perform the sport in an acceptable way, keeping their heart and body strong with the full training that it takes to succeed. God has given us the ability to do something good. I believe that we are doing that everyday.”

For more information, go to www.PlantCityKarate.com or call 813-752-9800.

SPORTS » MARTIAL ARTS

CHRIS WELBON PUTS ALL OF HIS EFFORTS INTO KARATE WRITTEN BY: JOE BOWLES

Photo Courtesy of Chris Welbon

Photo Courtesy of Chris Welbon


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JESSICA MCCLERNANJessica McClernan’s life became

complicated at the age of 10 when her father, Tom, was diagnosed with

pancreatic cancer. Within two months, he was gone. Initially, times were rough for Jessica and her mother Barbara, and the pain is still there, but Jessica was able to help cope with the help of a loving family and through her participation in sports.

“After my dad died, I started playing soccer in a league at the Turkey Creek Recreation Center. They only had a few games but I really loved it from the start. I never really stuck with anything before. But I definitely stuck with soccer and I’ve been playing it ever since,” said McClernan.

Following her introduction to soccer, Jessica played a year in the Plant City Recreation League and then joined the Plant City Lancers, a club team that plays a pretty competitive schedule. After three years with the Lancers, she hooked up with the Temple Terrace Spirit. The Spirit play in the Florida Youth Soccer Association and have moved from Division II to Division I after a successful season that resulted in a regional win and a state runner-up finish.

Jessica, a 5’9” 135-lb. sophomore at Durant High School is the team’s goalkeeper and has been a solid force between the posts as the Cougars have captured 10 wins out of their first 13 games, with plenty of highlights for McClernan to cherish.

“For me, the biggest game this year was our win against our rival Plant City. We haven’t beaten Plant City in a long time and we lost to them pretty bad last year. I played in the Plant City game last year

as a freshman, so it was good to beat them this year. We beat them 4-1.”

Jessica was recently named to Top Drawer Soccer’s’ National “Players to Watch List.” Top Drawer is the nations #1 college recruiting website. In June, she amassed 1079 consecutive shutout minutes and was named to Top Drawers National Team of the Month. She also was a first team all-tournament and all-league selection, with an invite to an all expense paid trip to Baltimore to participate in the Puma Women’s Premiere Camp.

“The top 60 girls in the nation were chosen to go to the Puma camp,” McClernan recalled. “It was a showcase for Division I colleges. It definitely was an awesome experience. We got to hang out with a few professional players. It was right after the World Cup, so they had a lot of World Cup stories to tell us. It was nerve racking but after I stepped on the field, my nerves calmed down. Most of the girls there were involved in the Olympic Developmental Program and they all knew one another, but I was the only one that didn’t know anybody. I haven’t tried out for that program yet, but I plan to this year.”

If it’s not soccer or schoolwork (she’s an honor student), it’s flag football. As a freshman, she was Durant’s quarterback, setting records for the longest pass completion (70 yards) and the longest run from scrimmage (79 yards) on the way to being named the team MVP.

Life may still be complicated for McClernan, but she is enjoying the ride. “Live life to the fullest and enjoy every minute” is Jessica’s motto. Today, every minute for her seems to be enjoyable and full. Just the way she likes it.

SPORTS » ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

WRITTEN BY: JOE BOWLES


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Plan ahead for Superbowl Cookouts

and Don’t forget Valentines Day

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call ahead

SPECIAL CUTS for Ribeyes, T-bone,Porterhouse, Filet Mignon, New York Strip,

ROAST CUTS- Pork Tenderloin, Beef Tenderloin, Sirloin, Prime Rib, Bottom Round, Boston Butt

ALSO AVAILABLE: Pork Chops, Bacon, Sausage, Hamburger, Cubed Steak, Alligator, Rabbit, Goat, Black Canyon, Black Angus

Jams, jellies, relishes, chicken, beefbrisket, fresh and frozen vegetables, deli meats and fresh Plant City strawberries.


BASEBALL TEAM OF THE MONTHAfter the fall season of the Sunshine Sports AAU Baseball League, the Florida Baseball Heaven Miracles Navy Blue are in first place heading into the spring season in the 12-and-under age group, following their undefeated run through the Fall Slug-A-Rama tournament. Coached by Sheldon Fulse, Mark Persails and Steve McKown, the Miracles defeated all five opponents, claiming the championship trophy in their age group on October 24, 2011 following the weekend tourney held in Winter Haven, Florida.

Sunshine Sports, the largest youth sports league in the nation, brought together more than 100 teams in six age groups

at five different venues throughout Polk County in what has become one of the most competitive tournaments over the past decade.

“We have some players who have real potential,” remarked Persails. “We started out with a team with a lot of raw ability that they have turned into talent. The young men have really worked hard and have gelled together as a team. The best thing about this team is their desire to discipline themselves to get better.”

This was the fourth tournament championship that the Miracles have claimed in their last five outings, and they

have won each competition utilizing every aspect of the game. According to Persails, the Miracles have the power to outscore an opponent, as well as the defense and pitching to win close low-scoring affairs.

In the first of two pool games, the Miracles utilized their power as they blasted five home runs against the Sunshine Black taking the victory by a score of 7-4. Benji Hildago accounted for two of the round-trippers while Dehreon Pressley, Addison Barger, and Jamarcus Lyons hit one homer each. Austin Eldridge picked up the win, Michael Pine earned the save in relief, and Ethan Higgins turned in a strong defensive effort.

In the second pool game, the Central Florida Legends took an early lead, but the Miracles came back late in the game with a bases clearing double by Emilio Rivera and scored the final three runs to secure the victory 6-5. With the exception of Rivera’s double, the Miracles played small-ball, stealing six bases, moving runners over, and pitching by committee as four hurlers (Hildago, Deyvon Terry, Ryan Davis, and Kris Clayton) had strong outings on the mound. Jacob Herbert, who threw out 65 % of potential base stealers during the tournament, was solid behind the plate.

The first game of the championship round was highlighted by a double play and two outstanding defensive plays at second base from Hunter McKown as the Miracles combined 10 hits to go along with their fine defensive effort to defeat the Wesley Chapel Storm 7-3. Rivera took the win and Clayton closed out the game with two innings of relief.

The semifinal game pitted the Miracles once again against the Central Florida Legends. This time, however, the Miracles jumped ahead early and plated eight runs before the end of the fourth inning on homeruns by Pressley, Lyons, and Terry. Eldridge, Pressley, and Lyons held the Legends to a single run in the 9-1 win.

In the final, the Miracles jumped out to a 6-1 lead only to see the Stampede come back to tie the game in the bottom of the fifth inning 7-7. In the Miracles’ last at bat, Benji Hildago belted a solo homer for an 8-7 lead and the Miracles held on as Pressley struck out a Stampede batter with two outs and runners on second and third to preserve the win and the championship.

SPORTS » KAZBOR’S BASEBALL TEAM OF THE MONTH

WRITTEN BY: JOE BOWLES | PHOTO COURTESY OF FLORIDA BASEBALL HEAVEN

2212 James L. Redman Pkwy., ( In the Publix Plaza) Plant City, FL(813) 752-2700Daily specials include Tuesday night kids 12 and under eat free off the kids menu with the purchase of an adult meal.Thursday night is all you can eat wings

Florida Baseball Heaven Miracles 12U Navy Blue: (Front Row: L to R) Ethan Higgins, Hunter McKown, Michael Pine, Addison Barger, Kris Clayton. (Back Row: L to R) Coach Sheldon Fulse, Ryan Davis, Dehreon Pressley, Emilio Rivera, Jamarcus Lyons, Jacob Herbert, Benji Hildago, Coach Steve McKown. (Not Pictured: Coach Mark Persails, Austin Eldridge, Sean Osceola, Dayvon Terry)


H A Y D E P O T

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t Women’s Care we continue to grow to meet the needs ofthe women in the community. Our Brandon location is open late onTuesday evenings to help you tackle your hectic schedule.

If you are ready for permanent contraception or you suffer from heavyperiods, we provide in-office and minimally invasive surgery options,including daVinci® Robotic Surgery.

We offer FREE Pregnancy tests for women ages 18 and older at ourLithia, Plant City and Gibsonton locations.

Vaccinations couldn’t be more convenient.We offer Flu, Hepatitis A& B, Tetanusand HPV (Human Papillomavirus), vaccinations at all four of our locations.

With all of our added conveniences for women, shouldn’t the new face at Women’s Care be yours?

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EXTRA » SENIOR OF THE MONTH

Nicole Parmley has dedicated her high school days to cheerleading, academics, and service. In those four

years, this Plant City High School senior has proven to be a leader in both her school and community. With a 5.23 GPA, Nicole is currently ranked 28th in her class. This puts her in the top 7% of the senior class. Due to her overall excellence in academics, Parmley lettered in academics and was inducted into the National Honor Society. Nicole has been a member of the cheerleading squad since her sophomore year. In those three years, Parmley has lettered in cheerleading and has been a member of the competition team. As co-captain this year, Nicole leads her squad through warm-ups, competitions, and games. Parmley has taken an active interest in clubs as well. She has been a member of the Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) for four years and has served as secretary both her junior and

senior year. She has also been an active member of the Life is Good club, Best Buddies, Civinettes, and Executive Council, in which she served as class secretary her junior year. During her four years with the Civinettes, Parmley has participated in various service projects. These have included Relay for Life, food collections for the United Food Bank, the High Heel Hike for Autism, and the Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Center food distribution, as well as many other community events.

This past September, Nicole participated in the PCHS Booster Club’s 2012 Calendar Girl competition. She was a Calendar girl winner as Miss July. Since then, Parmley has represented both the Athletic

Booster Club and PCHS at community events such as Lights of Love, the PCHS homecoming parade, and the Christmas parade. As a Calendar Girl, Nicole has been raising money by selling 2012 calendars to benefit the PCHS Booster Club.

Nicole is a dedicated Christian as well. Since her freshman year, Parmley has been a member of Clair Mel’s First Assembly of God youth group. Exemplifying her stewardship, Nicole has volunteered at her church sorting and distributing food and supplies to families in need. Next fall, Nicole plans on pursuing a major in Elementary Education at either the University of Central Florida or the University of Florida. After earning her degree, Parmley hopes to become a second grade teacher. The humility learned from service and the leadership learned from cheering have prepared Nicole well for her future in teaching and in leading others.

NICOLE PARMLEYSENIOR OF THE MONTH WRITTEN BY: JEREMY MINAYA


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EXTRA » SENIOR OF THE MONTH

Addison Killebrew is known around school and the community for being a hardworking, driven leader. From

academics to leadership, to sports as well, this Plant City High School senior is the prime example of a well-rounded student.

Since his freshman year, Addison has been a member of the Junior Civitan Service club and the Best Buddies Club. Killebrew currently serves as treasurer of Jr. Civitan and Vice President of Best Buddies. He also served as treasurer of Best Buddies last year. Through these clubs, Addison has done volunteer work in Special Olympics, Relay for Life, the Boys and Girls Club and the United Food Bank. Addison has also taken an active role in Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) where he served on the Board of Directors last year. He is also a member of the Life is Good Club, and Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD).

Killebrew has represented his class various times throughout high school. He was a

member of Student Council his freshman and sophomore year and has been a member of Student Government Association his junior and senior year. He was vice president of his class freshman year and sophomore year and president in his junior year. That year he was also selected to attend a Young Leadership Conference held by the University of Florida. Academics are an important part of Addison’s life. Currently he ranks 8th in his class with a 5.8 GPA, which places Killebrew in the top 2% of the senior class. For academic achievement, Addison was inducted into the National Honor Society and the 1270 Club. He was also recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction for his excellence in passing various Advanced Placement course exams. Killebrew has participated in a variety of sports throughout high school. As a freshman he played football. Last year, he brought

back an old tradition by joining the varsity cheerleading squad. Addison was the first male cheerleader at PCHS since 1987. His hard work was rewarded with a school letter in both varsity football and cheerleading. Currently he plays varsity soccer on the undefeated team that is expected to do very well at districts and state competitions this year. On top of schoolwork and his many extracurricular activities, Addison also manages to hold down a part time job. Last year he worked for the school, recording scores and statistics for sporting events. He currently works as a sales associate at Old Navy. In the future, Addison plans to pursue a degree in electrical engineering at the University of Florida. The experiences Addison has faced during high school have taught him morals, leadership, and a confidence that will serve him well throughout life.

ADDISON KILLEBREW SENIOR OF THE MONTH WRITTEN BY: JEREMY MINAYA


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Divorce • AlimonyChild Support • PaternityCustody & VisitationPost Judgement Modifications

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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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INFORMATION OVERLOAD IS REAL!!!Have you noticed a theme in some of

my writings over the past couple of years? I love technology, but there

are a lot of dangers that are surfacing themselves in the last several months.

No, it’s not just about companies having their files stolen or broken into or hacked. You’ve got to expect that enough bad people out there in the world are going to find a way to steal information.

And since we all have credit cards, somebody has a file with our names, addresses, social security numbers, and other personal information stored

somewhere. Unless you literally live under a rock there are files about you out there in the cloud.

The problems I am talking about are getting a lot more attention in the medical world. Worker exhaustion, inability to concentrate, heightened anxiety, feelings of desperation, and actual psychoses brought on by asking our brains to do much more than they were designed to handle.

Computers have been such a blessing and cell phones such a part of our lives that we scarcely imagine there could be any downside. But ask yourself this? What happens when the computers go down,

when you change operating systems or upgrade? What happens when four employees are cut to two because with technology you can do so much more? And then the two cut to one with the same expectations?

Leading research institutions are dealing with those very questions. And so far they’ve found that our brains may be able to handle the actual work, but in order to accomplish those tasks it literally shuts down portions of the brain and tries to partition itself so left-brain and right-brain functions don’t conflict. The end result is a tremendous lack of focus, not because we can’t focus, but because our

brains may not allow us to in order to protect itself. And the thesis here is that overloading, that information maelstrom, may be creating genuine mental health issues that could surface in the near and far future.

Let me rephrase that. Multi-tasking may be a cool buzz word in the work world when we are all trying to do more with less, thanks to technology, but multi-tasking isn’t the way our brains like to work.

We do have the robotic portion of our brains that is very good at repeating tasks, but we also have the creative side that looks at each task and tries to develop new ways of handling the load. When that portion of our thinking process is overloaded with repetitive motion, it brings on all the anxiety, the depression, etc. We don’t just feel like we are being overworked….we actually are.

Here’s the scary part. Everyone is afraid to say.. enough is enough. This is the way it is and will always be. Information overload is a joke. Go home and get some rest. Maybe that is the solution.

But if the researchers are correct, we could be in deeper waters than we thought. The blessings of technology could become a curse hidden by our desire to try and do it all….when we were never meant to!

EXTRA » AL REUCHEL

WRITTEN BY: AL REUCHEL“...they’ve found that our brains may be able to handle the actual work, but in order to accomplish those tasks it literally shuts down portions of the brain and tries to partition itself so left-brain and right-brain functions don’t conflict. ”


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PUTTING OUR PRINCIPALS/PRINCIPLES TO WORK:

EXTRA » DEREK MAUL

Let’s start by getting our definitions in order. “Principle” means a fundamental truth that serves as the foundation

for a system of belief. “Principal,” on the other hand, is an initial or foundational investment. Recently, I’ve enjoyed some really great conversations around the topic of corporate culture. Yes, I know, that sounds like a boring direction for dinner dialog, and far out-of-sync with my writing theme of “Life-Charged Life.” But it’s not. Corporate dynamics are neither boring nor irrelevant to my thinking, not by a long shot.

In fact, if there’s any area of North American culture that’s ripe for the introduction of life-charged principles, then it’s the world of business and commerce. Bottom line, if your motivation in business is to see things “return to normal,” then you can’t embrace any kind of legitimate vision - because all you’re doing is looking in the rearview mirror. If that describes you, then the “MO” in your modus operandi really stands for “Missed Opportunity!”

ARE WE SERIOUS?Good grief, America, isn’t it time to grasp the fact that re-mounting “The horse we rode in on” is a lot like sitting in the penthouse of your corporate HQ after a magnitude 8.0 earthquake, and holding onto your money with both fists while waiting for the next series of after-shocks to finally reduce your future to a pile of rubble? When what you really should be doing is erecting a brand-new structure. Fear immobilizes; that’s what the word petrified implies. Fear of failure leads to the sorry specter of corporate executives

hanging on for dear life, stuffing their imagination in a sock and shoving it under the bed, forgetting that their lack of vision pretty much guarantees the negative result they can only avoid if they actually risk doing something.

NO NEED TO HIDE: There’s a Bible parable that speaks to this (Matthew 25:14-30). Jesus told a story about a guy who buried his master’s investment in the dirt. He buried it because he was afraid, so he made sure the principal remained intact. But most of all he did it because he didn’t understand that the treasure wasn’t so much the gold as what could be done with it. The treasure wasn’t so much the gold as what could be done with it. The parable offers a disturbing conclusion. The “master” is over-the-top angry, the punishment seems disproportionate to the event, and the story sometimes gets lost in the aftermath. But I think it’s a deliberate story-telling ploy by the Great Teacher. Nothing pushes God’s buttons like the crime of squandered opportunity. Seriously, folks - and you have to understand this even if faith and religion mean nothing to you at all - the characteristic that makes us the most alive is our creativity.

CREATIVE PASSION: No matter how you slice it, life without creativity and passion is no life at all. And one of the last places we need to put our passion on hold is the workplace. America didn’t get to be America by people getting off the boat and burying their gold in the dirt, afraid of loss. The loss occurs the moment the talent is buried - because (and Jesus was all about this) the greatest loss is not the gold but the invention, the imagination, the creativity, the spirit.... The greatest loss is:• The invention• The imagination• The creativity• The spirit... So, when the guy put the principal in the ground to just sit there, what he had really done was to bury the principle instead. Are we even listening...?

WRITTEN BY: DEREK MAUL

A LETTER TO CORPORATE AMERICA


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ARTIST MARCHESSometimes in life things may not

always appear as they seem. Hard edges may actually be soft and soft

edges may actually be hard. Life can be full of surprises.

Dan Brawley is one such artist who paints from his heart and soul creating a canvas of surprise and wonder. I first met Dan as he attended my yoga classes wearing shorts with fresh streaks of paint.

What I did not know about this gentle yoga-practicing artist was that he previously was a trial attorney for criminal cases. Over the course of his career Dan tried more than 200 jury trials, 20 of which were first-degree murder cases including 15 defendants who were on death row. All of this work experience results from someone who openly admits to not liking confrontation.

It can be said that Dan found a place of peace and rest from the pressures of his career through his painting. As a self-taught artist, Dan paints only for himself - marching to the beat of his own drum. He does not allow thoughts of what other people may think to influence his work. Using canvas, a knife, and oil paints,

Dan approaches each painting with intensity, laying down the paint in layer upon layer. Each monochromatic painting takes a certain discipline, both in the process and in knowing when to complete the last stroke. Although Dan spends a very long time contemplating before starting, he never has an idea as to how the paintings will actually turn out. As the famous painter Edward Hopper phrased it, “I can never paint what I set out to paint.”

As an artist Dan has had the opportunity to participate in a few one man art shows and admits that although some people

understand and appreciate his work – some people do not get it. His work has been approached by blank stares while eyes scan the wall looking for something that can be dealt with.

Dan’s paintings represent a certain type of crudeness. They are not mannered, pretty, or slick, and above all they are not phony. They represent life as it is - full of surprises.

EXTRA » ARTIST OF THE MONTH

TO THE BEAT OF HIS OWN DRUM WRITTEN BY: HEATHER DAVIS


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EXTRA » AUTO REVIEW

RX-8 CONTINUES WITH MORE OF THE SAMESLIGHT STYLING CHANGES WRAP UP THE CURRENT MODEL

Mazada may not have a large portion of the auto industry, but their product offerings are sound

– especially those that are performance based. The RX-8 delivers.

The RX-8 is the flagship sports car for Mazda. It began in the 1980s as the RX-7. The 7 ran its course, and several years ago evolved into the car we see today, the RX-8. The biggest difference between the two, aside from the typical evolution you expect with sports cars, was the addition of two suicide doors allowing easier access to a rear seat. This places more emphasis on the RX-8 being more than a two-seater sports car, but it really is. Although there is a rear seat, it’s very small. Unless you have younger children, it’s just not very practical for use for additional passengers.

On the exterior, the RX-8 definitely has a look of its own. Its lines are distinctive with a slight rise from front to back providing a low wedge, and covered by what could be defined as a stylish bubble or dome. Its simple, but it works. The wheel wells are highly defined, and the narrowing from the side panels to the hood makes them over emphasized in the front. All in all, the exterior styling works, but it isn’t as exciting as it could be.

The interior is better. Mazda does a good job of placing each of the controls where you would naturally want them. The gauges are bright and easy to read. Seating for the driver and front seat passenger is comfortable, but taller occupants will find it a bit of a chore to climb in and out of the low seating.

Under the hood, the RX-8 does well to show off the rotary engine that made Mazda famous. This rotary engine provides more horsepower per square inch than any piston engine on the market today. The RX-8 comes in three different trim levels: Sport, Grand Touring and R3. All are available with the same 232hp engine, but you’ll lose 20hp by going to an automatic, instead of the standard 6-speed manual. Either engine will delight, but if you can do it, I’d really suggest sticking with the 6-speed manual. The performance is great, and its just much more fun to drive.

The transmission is smooth and the engine really responds well. Zero-to-60 takes about 7 seconds, which is considerably slower than the V-6 Mustang coupe. Mazda designers want to move from the

current 1.3L to a 1.6L, which could have a significant impact on its performance as a sports car, but with such emphasis these days on fuel economy, it may be tough sell to the Mazda brass.

If you’re interested in an RX-8, you’ll likely be pleased with this version, but it may be worth waiting to see next year’s model. The current body style has been in place since 2003 and it’s rumored to change next year.

SUBMITTED BY: BRIAN WEST


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MRS. EVELYN MADONIA AND THE RED ROSE STAFFBRING IN THE YEAR 2012 WITH FIRST

CLASS DINING AND ENTERTAINMENT

Mrs. Evelyn Madonia has done it again! The Red Rose Dining Room and Ballroom were filled

with guests celebrating the end of a great year with anticipation of the beginning of the Year 2012.

Smartly dressed hostesses escorted arriving guests to their tables, where especially attractive centerpieces contained New Year’s crowns for the ladies and top hats for the gentlemen. Of course, party horns were included in the arrangements. To the guests delight, individual ice buckets on each table contained a bottle of chilled champagne for each couple.

Both venues were decorated regally with rich colors. Balloon sculptures with light displays decorated the entrance and stage areas. The Ballroom was decorated with gold, red and black while the Dining Room was decked out in royal blue, purple and black. Jennifer White, Director of Sales, Kelley Grice, Ballroom Manager and David Rodas, Dining Room Manager greeted guests and ensured that all details for a spectacular evening were in place.

Mrs. Madonia and Executive Chef

Riccardo Ciabatti worked months in advance to plan the perfect menu. The first course was a Seafood Trio appetizer. This dish consisted of chilled shrimp cocktail, Ahi Tuna and a hot crab cake. Ron Daniel, who grew up on the eastern shore of Maryland commented, “This crab cake tastes as delicious as any I have had in Maryland and they are known to be the best!” As guests began dining, the music of the evening began. In the Ballroom, Destiny opened the evening with wonderful background music.

The second course was Tomato Bisque. This signature soup is a special tribute to the industry in which the Madonia family is a leader . . .Tomatoes! Batista and Evelyn Madonia are the President and Vice President, respectively, of East Coast Brokers and Packers, Inc, a tomato grower and packing company.

The third course was a crisp Classic Caesar Salad with homemade Caesar Dressing. Guests were given a choice of Entrées including Stuffed Breast of Chicken, Filet of Salmon and Grilled Tenderloin. The tender breast of chicken was stuffed with ricotta, spinach, and sundried tomatoes,

served with white wine and sage butter sauce. The fresh fillet of salmon was baked with shrimp and asparagus and served with a white wine cream sauce. The grilled tenderloin was a center-cut filet topped with wild mushroom Madera wine sauce. All the guests raved about their personal selection of entrée.

As Destiny left the stage, The Las Vegas Sounds took center stage in the Ballroom and entertained the guests with nostalgic hits. A special guest performer, Ken Brady, formerly of the Casinos, joined this group on stage and wowed the crowd. Mr. Brady livened the evening with a hit from the Drifters “Under the Boardwalk.” He had the audience dancing and singing along. The evening was warm, friendly, and happy! Garrett Fussell, a member of the wait staff has been with the Red Rose Staff for almost a year. He has worked with chain family restaurants. He said, “The atmosphere at the Red Rose among the staff is different than at other places. There is closeness among the staff and we really enjoy one another and like to get together even when we are not working. Our staff is more like a family.” It is evident to the

guests that the Red Rose Staff enjoys their work. The fifth course served by the well trained wait staff was a dessert of chocolate soufflé with raspberry sauce, whipped cream, sliced strawberries and blueberries. It was the perfect ending to the gourmet meal.

The evening’s entertainment continued to exceed expectations. Next on the stage were the 1950s World Famous Platters. This group of five opened with one of their smash hits, “Only You.” They followed the theme “Re-Live the Romance” by performing hits such as “Stand By Me,” “Smoke Gets in your Eyes” and “The Great Pretender.” The Platters had 35 “Top 10” hits over their 50 years of entertaining. Tarri Frye who was dining at the Red Rose for the first time exclaimed, “Being here makes me feel young again! The meal was incredible . . .I Love music and I love dancing. This is the perfect place to come for New Years Eve!”

Next to take the stage was the Legacy of the Temptations. This five member group brought energy to the stage as they performed top hits of the Temptations with choreographed moves to every song. One personal favorite of many was their rendition of “Silent Night.” It gave a sense of peace to all in the holiday spirit of celebration. They brought the crowd to their feet with the Temptations’ first #1 hit, “My Girl,” which was recorded in 1964.

Again, going over the top, The Red Rose Ballroom brought Time Square New York to the Ballroom. On the three screens in the ballroom guests watched and did the countdown to the New Year with millions of others around the United States. The Legacy of the Temptations helped lead the countdown and the celebration of “Happy New Year!” As dancers on the packed dance floor celebrated, countless balloons dropped from the ceiling onto the celebrating, happy crowd.

Don’t be left out of the next event hosted by the Red Rose Dining Room. A calendar of entertainment can be found on the website at www.redroseinnandsuites.com The Red Rose is located off I-4 Exit 21 in Plant City. Call 813-752-3141 for reservations.

Evelyn and Batista Madonia wish all a very Happy, Healthful and Prosperous New Year!

ENTERTAINMENT » RED ROSE

WRITTEN BY: SHERRIE MUELLER

Guests at the Red Rose New Year’s Eve Gala enjoy dancing to the Platters.


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ENTERTAINMENT » DINING PROFILE

1902 W REYNOLDSPLANT CITY, FL 33563-4742PHONE: 813-752-2236

HOURS OF OPERATION:MONDAY - THURSDAY:V 11:00 AM TO 10:00 PMFRIDAY - SATURDAY: 11:00 AM TO 10:30 PMSUNDAY: NOON TO 10:00 PM

CRITICAL INFO

DAIRY QUEENDairy Queen is a nationwide franchise

that has been a part of American culture since the pre-WWII era.

Americans are in love with the soft-serve ice cream chain, and at this time approximately 5,700 locations are open throughout the country.

Since there are so many eateries in so many different towns, it is easy to take something like a Dairy Queen for granted. But Plant City is home to a very special and historical location.

Don’t believe me? Just stop by the store on a balmy, dead-of-winter evening (thank you Florida weather!) like we did and ask the folks who come around here — whether they be behind or in front of the counter. It’s guaranteed that everyone will have some special memories tied to this location.

Plant City’s DQ was first opened in the early ‘60s by the current owner Lizzette Sarria’s grandfather. The store was passed down to her father Gil Gill in the ‘80s and then to her five years ago. Sarria jokes, “I guess you could say ice cream was in my blood.”

Longtime PCDQ customer and loyal community patron Nancy Dickson remembers the set of bright red stairs that led up to the service counter in the old days, as well as the fountain next to the store. Cassie, a current employee, also remembers those stairs from her childhood and happily points out a small, preserved chunk of the stairs next to the counter.

Pictures of days gone by line the walls around the dining areas: people leaning on their ‘60s Chevys, looking as cool as the ice cream, or the families gathered ‘round the red stairs for a special treat give this Dairy Queen a feeling of being deeply seeded in the Plant City community. It is indeed refreshing to find a chain restaurant with such personality.

Today, the PCDQ serves the same treats for which the company has long been famous. They offer two types of soft-serve ice cream — vanilla and chocolate, of course — with their aesthetically pleasing rounded dollop shape in a cake cone for those who are looking for a simple pleasure.

Not to be overlooked are the many different types of the signature Blizzard

treats they offer. The Strawberry CheeseQuake Blizzard is the specialty flavor DQ is promoting. This blend of vanilla soft-serve, strawberry syrup, and tiny chunks of cheese cake is a real treat. Then there are the classics, the Oreo and the M&M Blizzard. The good news for customers is that the treats remain extremely customizable; if you can dream it (and they have the ingredients) they can blizzard-tize it.

Other popular items are the soft-serve banana splits that feature three different types of syrups - chocolate, strawberry, and pineapple; waffle-bowl sundaes

with whipped cream; milk shakes; coffee “MooLattés”; Dilly bars and sandwiches; and made-to-order ice cream cakes. Of course, any of these menu items can be chocolate dipped if you desire!

Perhaps the most unexpected thing on the PCDQ menu is their delicious, pressed Cuban sandwich, which counts Nancy Dickson and many other locals as fans.

Come in today to take a trip down memory lane or to just get a taste of the old familiar standbys that Plant City has been enjoying for generations.

WRITTEN BY: AMANDA MOLINAROA LONG-TIME PLANT CITY FAVORITE


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Cowboys Steakhouse and Saloon features a restaurant for meat-loving southerners to enjoy southern cooking and a connected saloon to line dance in afterwards. Inside everything is wooden from the floors to ceiling. Come in and

enjoy juicy steaks,but don’t forget about our fresh baked sour-dough bread, and other appetizers and entrees that are sure to make your mouth water.

COWBOY’S SALOON AND STEAKHOUSE

106 STATE ROAD 60 E.PLANT CITY, FL 33567-9253

813- 650-8888

Chili’s has been spicing things up since 1975. There is something for everyones taste. From sizzling chicken or beef fajitas, fired grilled classic burgers or the new honey chipotle baby back ribs that are slow

smoked over pecan wood so they’re “fall-off-the-bone” tender with a bold new honey-chipotle flavor that’s impossible to resist. Call in or come in, your always welcome at Chili’s.

CHILI’S

3001 JAMES L REDMAN PARKWAYPLANT CITY, FL 33566

813-764-8548 • WWW.CHILIS.COM

Fresh specialties, top chefs, and great prices are what you can expect at The Asian Chen Restaurant located in the Thonotosassa Publix shopping area. Find out why customers are raving about this new fine

dining establishment. Monday-Thursday 10:30am-10pm. Friday-Saturday 10:30am-11pm: Sunday 11:30am-10pm. Seniors receive a complimentary beverage with their meal and party trays are available. LUNCH $ 5.75 • DINNER $6.95 • SENIORS GET FREE DRINK DINNING ORDER FROM MENU SALAD BAR FOR FREE.

ASIAN CHEN CHINESE BUFFET

2609 THONOTOSASSA RD.PLANT CITY, FL 33563

813-757-9888

2609 THONOTOSASSA RD.

Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant is a family-owned restaurant dedicated to serving the finest foods and atmosphere of Mexico and the Southwest. We serve lunch and dinner, and proudly feature Fajitas,

Enchiladas, Tacos, Burritos, Quesadillas, Chiles Rellenos and Chimichangas, as well as other specialties of the house. In addition, we offer a wide variety of margaritas, beer and drinks to accompany your favorite meal. And best of all, at prices that are affordable to almost anyone. We’ve been voted Best Mexican by the Focus RCA awards five years in a row!

MI CASA

2613 THONOTOSASSA RDPLANT CITY, FL

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Plant City Hometown Buffet is a family owned and operated business started by Elaine Vo, a resident of Plant City for the last 24 years. They offer a wide variety of items spanning the five

buffet bars, including seafood and steak. There is certainly something to fit every taste preference, especially if you’re looking for seafood with their catfish, stuffed crab, buttered shrimp and much, much, more.

PLANT CITY HOMETOWN BUFFET


813-754-4488

SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT » DINING GUIDE

If you love deep-dish pizza, Olde Town Pizzeria is the only place around to find it. The cheesy Chicago-style pizza is a popular item on the menu, as well as the Award Winning Strawberry Walnut

Salad and thin crust pizzas. In addition, they have an array of delicious pastas, salads and sandwiches to satisfy all taste buds. This family owned and operated restaurant is a Plant City favorite for those who love high quality food and friendly service.

OLDE TOWN PIZZERIA


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

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

ZAXBY’S

2901 1/2 JAMES REDMAN PKWY.PLANT CITY, FL 33564

(813) 752-1971 • WWW.ZAXBYS.COM

The Red Rose Dining Room is the only 5-star rated restaurant in Plant City. Mrs. Evelyn Madonia invites you to help her welcome back Executive Chef Riccardo Ciabatti! Enjoy an elegant

setting and beautiful atmosphere for lunch or dinner. On Tuesday night we have a “Southern Buffet”, and on Wednesday night it’s “Seafood Buffet”! On the weekends you can catch fabulous entertainment (visit the website for upcoming shows).

THE RED ROSE DINING ROOM

2011 N WHEELER STPLANT CITY, FL 33563

813-752-3141 • WWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COM

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SERVICES/MISCELLANEOUSA CHILDLESS, YOUNG, SUCCESSFUL WOMAN SEEKS TO ADOPT. Will provide loving home. Large extended family. Excellent support. Financial security. Expenses paid. Jessica or Adam 1-800-790-5260. (FL.Bar#0150789)

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ADOPTION 866-633-0397 Unplanned Pregnancy? Provide your baby with a loving, financially secure family. Living/Medical/Counseling expenses paid. Social worker on staff. Call compassionate attorney Lauren Feingold (FL Bar#0958107) 24/7

ADOPTION 888-812-3678 All Expenses Paid. Choose a Loving, Financially Secure family for your child 24 Hrs 7 Days Caring & Confidential. Attorney Amy Hickman. (Lic. #832340)

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

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REAL ESTATEAvailable Now 2-4 Bedroom Homes. Take Over Payments. No Money Down. No Credit check! Call Now 1-888-270-0372

OWNER FINANCE N. FLORIDA LAND Beautiful area near springs and rivers, 5 - 10 acre tracts, No Credit Check, Easy Terms! Call for Free Color Brochure, Shirley 800-545-3501 386-466-2254

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AUTOMOBILESCASH FOR CARS: All Cars/Trucks Wanted. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Any Make/Model. Call For Instant Offer: 1-800-871-9638

DONATE YOUR CAR for Cash on the Spot & IRS Tax Deduction. Free $3,000 Grocery Shopping Coupons. Free Towing. All Cars Accepted. 1-855-WE-CURE-KIDS / 1-855-932-8735 www.CarsCureKids.ORG

MISCELLANEOUS

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HEALTH/MEDICAL

AUTOMOBILES

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Fees. (866) 709-1100 or www.glofin.com

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USED AUTO & RV PARTS“U-PULL” or “WE PULL”*Bring this ad and receive free yard entry*

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( new ownership)We Buy Wrecked or DamagedWe Buy Wrecked or Damaged

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813-752-3770WWW.LOETSCHERAUTO.COM

4306 HWY 574 W.Plant City

2301 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City (813) 707-9303

BUY ONE GET ONE FREEAny Cone

2301 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City (813) 707-9303

BUY ONE GET ONE FREEAny Milkshake

Expires 3-15-12Expires 3-15-12

(813) 707-93032301 James L Redman Parkway, Plant City, FL

VOTE USBEST MILKSHAKE!

Were not just Pizza, Come try our Hambugers and Chicken and Steak too!

Lunch and Dinner specials every day! and View our Printable Menu on Abcpizza.com

813-752-5146114 North Alexander Street • Plant City, Fl. 33563

BRING THIS AD IN AND RECEIVE 15% OFF

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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:

[email protected]

SUNDAY, JANUARY 15TH

» Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Leadership Breakfast7:30 am - 9:00amPlant City Red Rose Inn & Suites Ballroom2011 North Wheeler St. Plant City, Fl 33563Tickets $25 RSVPFor more information 813.757.6760

MONDAY, JANUARY 16TH » Dr. Martin Luther King DaySchools closed and some government offices closed

THURSDAY, JANUARY 19TH

» Adult Literacy Tutor Orientation6pm-7pmSERVE and Hillsborough County Public Schools Adult Education Department need volunteers who can assist adult students ages 16 and older.Bruton Memorial Library W. McLendon StPlant City, FL 33563For more info call 813.757.9215

SATURDAY, JANUARY 21ST

» Strawberry Ball Festival Grounds Expo Hall

SATURDAY, JANUARY 28TH

» Argentine Tango & Latin Mix Dance Party7pm-12amMaster Pro’s Eddy and Veronica will teach Argentine Tango. The class will be followed with a dance party serving food, wine and soda drinks.Stardust Dance Center

1405 S. Collins St.Plant City, FL 33566

» Florida Strawberry Festival Queen PageantPageant begins at 6pmWatch as 31 beautifully, talented, local young ladies vie for the title of the 2012 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen. Evelyn and Batista Madonia Sr. Agricultural Show Center on Strawberry Festival GroundsFor more information call 813.752.9194Tickets can be purchased the night before at the door or the night of.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4TH

» Spirituality & Dementia Seminar of Hope9:30am to 2:00 pmThe Alzheimer’s Association-Florida Gulf Coast Chapter presents a free educational event for caregivers, parish volunteers & nurses, Senior Adult Pastors, & others interested in learning more about compassionate memory care. Lunch & snacks provided by Hope Lutheran. 2001 N. Park Rd. Plant City, FL 33563More information call 863.292.9210

» Jayc Harold Concert7:00 pmNashville recording artist Jayc Harold in Concert. 2008 Winner Country/Bluegrass Album of the Year CGMA.3409 Paul Buchman Hwy Plant City, FL 33565For more information call 813.752.1885

» The Florida Opry6:00pmBluegrass, Country and Gospel. Reserved seats $12, and general admission $101914 High School605 N. Collins StreetFor more information contact Shelby or Christa 813.757.9226

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14

» Valentine’s Day

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16

» Focus 10th Anniversary Party and Business After Hours 5:30 pm – 10PMKeel and Curley WineryCome join us as we celebrate 10 years of Focus MagazineRCA awards also presented this evening. It is an evening you don’t want to miss.For more information call the Focus office 813.707.8783

MARCH 1-11

» Florida Strawberry Festival

ONGOING EVENTS

Red Rose Inn and Suites Ongoing Events:

Red Rose Inn and Suites- Every Monday Learn to Dance with Susan7 to 9 pm. Learn and easy, fun, and fast method to start dancing with any

partner on any dance floor. No partner needed.Call: 863-604-5060(small fee)

Red Rose Inn & Suites- Every Tuesday and Wednesday.Prime Rib & Seafood BuffetEnjoy baked, broiled, steamed, and fried seafood including lightly battered fried shrimp.Succulent steamed crab legs, even tender prime rib au jus with all the trimmings! All this plus salads and deserts to tempt the most demanding palates! Music from Free Time Jazz.

Red Rose Inn Suites- Every ThursdaySingles Night OutHappy Hour, Dance Contest, Bottle of Wine and $50 Gift Card giveaway PLUS music from Destiny and either Melissa Malone or Tony Johnson!

Strawberry Square, 4401 Pomenade Blvd.,Plant CityA full schedule of Square and Round Dancing is happening every day at Strawberry Square. We have many callers and cuer’s on the schedule. Visit our website: www.strawberrysquaredancing.com or call the office: 813-752-0491

Become a fan of Focus Magazine on Facebook and be the first to know.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/FOCUS-Magazine/102059236047


CALLALOHALOGO

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Best of Friends

© Puzzle Features Syndicate

ACROSS 1. Holler for 5. Lanai greeting10. Symbol14. Minor role15. Fats, for one17. Capital city20. Fictional friends23. 3/7 and 4/724. Reason to call

in sick25. Last part26. Lilliputian28. Slimy fellow29. Qt. or gal.31. Place of relief34. __ culpa35. “Lean __”; hit

song of 197236. Present to the

public39. Prefix with natal

or conservative40. In the __; not

aware of facts41. See 60 Across48. Up to49. Pacific Ocean

discoverer50. Headache buster54. Laurel, for one55. Senility58. Stop __ dime60. With 41 Across,

film friends61. Farmyard animal62. Former intl.

alliance63. Suffixes for

residents65. MJB rival67. Infamous

Germans70. Fan72. Conceal75. Secondhand77. Bill amount78. Pronoun81. TV’s “__ Own”

(1994-95)82. Eur. nation84. Spin86. Billy __87. Wynonna’s

mom88. Baseball’s __

Jackson90. Walkway91. Cartoon friends97. With 120

Across, TV friends

100. __ Arthur101. S. A. nation102. Submit103. Man’s nickname104. Setting106. Pasture cry107. Word with dog

or top110. Left-side ledger

entry112. Pulls a tub plug

117. Literary initials119. Valuable find120. See 97 Across125. Rossini opera126. One who shakes at

the table127. __ board128. Others129. Examinations130. “Auld Lang __”

DOWN 1. Primitive transport 2. Radio bands 3. Page 4. Valley 5. Fruity drink 6. Traditional learning 7. Yemen’s neighbor 8. Female animal 9. “The King __”10. Maj.’s superior11. Shade provider12. Talents13. Sheriff Taylor’s boy14. Scoop holder16. Cry of alarm18. Fleet, for one19. Central20. Gout site21. Delicious22. St. Charles Lwanga, for

one27. Beast of burden30. British custom

32. See 85 Down33. Charged atom35. Lubricate36. Slow indications, in

music37. Bit of land38. Chafe40. Torrent41. Tooth part42. Against43. Hunter’s prey44. Sermon topic45. Mavericks’ org.46. Lariat feature47. __ car51. Warm saison52. DVD player’s forerunner53. Syllables from the hard

of hearing55. Do a household chore56. Like Cheerios57. Refrain syllable59. In progress64. Swirling66. Tribal member67. In a bad mood68. Spine-chilling69. Mixer speed71. By way of72. Junior73. Spain’s last queen74. Contented sound76. Actress Samantha78. 1998 National League

MVP

79. Steerer’s place80. Sch. type83. Florida tourist’s

destination85. With 32 Down,

parted water86. Triangular sail89. Org. for girls90. Grant or Carter92. London network93. Pollinator94. Hope, for one95. Ease96. Undesirable spots97. Dangerous drug98. In __; preborn99. Old measure of

about 18 inches104. Not fresh105. Times107. Actor Peter108. Pretentiously

talented109. Candy holder111. Cake decorator113. Body study: abbr.114. Just sitting there115. New Jersey __116. Leave it be118. Award for “ER”121. Stevenson’s

monogram122. Polka __123. Time periods: abbr.124. Dusk, to a poet

BEST OF FRIENDS by Calvin R. & Jackie Mathews

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19

20 21 22

23 24 25 26 27

28 29 30 31 32 33 34

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ENTERTAINMENT » CROSSWORD

BEST OF FRIENDSCREATED BY: CALVIN R. AND JACKIE MATHEWS


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

home, the movers do the rest.Prices are Based on Time that is Needed.

Locally Owned and Operated

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

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

Same Great Service,Same Great Cleaners,

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We Offer One Time Cleaning • Licensed - Insured - Bonded • References Available Upon Request

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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!

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(813) 931-4663 • (727) 502-5300Morgan Exteriors is committed to providing the most innovative, energy efficient and highest quality products available

We Take the Risk Out of Home Improveme n t

s

*Some Restrictions Apply and cannot be combined with any other offersLicense CRC-057210

One of the most important services we offer is easy, no hassle, fi nancing for our customers.

We are proud members of NARI, Tampa Chamber of Commerce, Angies List, BBB, and many more.

You can rest assured that you are working with professionals and a respectable organization

We Offer 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, 30 Day 110% Money Back Guarantee, Our Exclusive Lifetime Workmanship Warrantee.

Energy Effi cient Replacement Windows

Solid Core Insulated Siding Products

Door’s of all typesRoom Additions

Stucco, Painting and much more.

Dinner for Two Gift Card for just the Appointment!

$200.00 Gas Card with Purchase!

60% off all Labor for a Limited Time!

Hurry This Offer Ends 2/15/2012

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

FLORIDA’S OLDEST FORD DEALERSHIP, SINCE 1912

Over 900 New and Used vehicles for sale on-line!

www.JarrettScottFord.com

2000 East Baker StreetPlant City, FL 33563

Service HoursMon-Fri 7am-7pm

Sat 7am-3pm

813-757-6429

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

Life is better in the Quick Lane.

FREEALIGNMENT CHECK

$29.95 $50.00 OFF THE WORKS PACKAGE

PARTS AND SERVICE.Includes up to 7 quarts of synthetic blend oil, 31 point VCU inspection, Check and top off all fl uids, Tire presure check,

Balance check, Four Tire rotation

Cannot be used for parts only, collision work or tires. Savings not to exceed 10 percent of total parts and labor

Must present coupon at time of write up. May not be used with any other coupon or store special. Shop supplies and tax extra. Most cars and light trucks.

Must present coupon at time of write up. May not be used with any other coupon or store special. Shop supplies and tax extra. Most cars and light trucks excludes diesels.

Must present coupon at time of write up. May not be used with any other coupon or store special. Shop supplies and tax extra.

Auto service just got better!Quick Lane® at Jarrett-Scott Ford provides all the services your car or truck needs most. All our services are performed by factory-trained experts and on your schedule. No appointment necessary and you’ll get service while you wait, even on evenings and weekends.

We’ll take care of any make or model, using quality parts from trusted brands like Motorcraft® and name-brand tires from Goodyear, Continental, Michelin and more.

http://jarrettscottford.com

Documents

FOCUS Plant City 11-01