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STANDARDS OF ACCURACYThe goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-warming stories that are accurate from the start. Being human, however, we 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 editorial@fl oydpublications.com. The staff will fi x the error in a timely manner.

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8 LOCaLWinter Haven and the surrounding areas are such great communities where the people who reside there seem to understand what is important in life - it is all about community. Find out about some things and local people that continue to make Winter Haven an amazing place to live.

11 FeatUrePrepare to be inspired to take your reading up a notch and help others who may need a little reading help to do the same. Polk County leaders are readers and Read Polk is doing its part to make certain Central Florida has more than its share. Get involved to up the literacy levels in your neighborhood.

49 BUSineSS PrOFiLeDo your pup a favor and read this profi le on Grooming Deals, the pet care business owned by Angela Todd. Th en, visit her website or call for an appointment. Your pooch will love you for the pampering they’ll receive from a trip to her conveniently located and professional service facility.

15 - Strawberry Festival Section45 - Medical

50 - Main Street winter haven55 - City of winter haven

56 - al reuchel58 - event Calendar

13 SPOtLightIn the spotlight this month is Dr. Deane R. Briggs, M.D., a quintessential Renaissance man who will retire soon from practicing medicine at Th e Barranco Clinic.Seeing the growth in both the hospital and the culturally diverse Winter Haven community has been a delight.

57 Dining PrOFiLeAuthentic Mexican food, BBQ , smoked meats, and daily trimmings are described in this month’s review of three great places to grab a bit while on-the-go or on the way home. La Botana, Rufus Ribs, and Bubba’s Diner are defi nitely worth a try.

taBle of contents

ONTHECOVER dr. deane r. Briggs, m.d.Photo By Brent simmons

march 2011voLume 3 issue 10

PUBLISHER Mike Floyd

OFFICE MANAGER Dede Floyd

COPY EDITOR Cheryl Johnston

ADVERTISING DIRECTORBrent Simmons

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FOCUS Magazine winter haven march 2011 5

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i recently watched the 2011 Oscars, but what stood out the most to me were not any of the awards or any of the celebrities, rather a scene at the very end of the evening. Th e fi nale performance after all the awards were presented was given by PS22, a 5th grade chorus

from New York.

A couple months ago when fl ipping through channels I caught a segment featuring this chorus’ story. If you’re not familiar with PS22, the simple version of the story is that a music teacher decided to take a unique approach to teaching the students. Rather than teaching structure, uniform, and traditional music while accompanying on the piano, he grabbed his guitar and taught students pop music. He encouraged them to completely let go everything in their lives and feel the music they were singing. He wanted them to connect to the music just like a true musician would.

Th e results have been phenomenal. Th ere are stories of children living in broken homes, coming from poverty, neglect or other burdens and yet their lives completely change because of his class. Th ey are allowed to be free to be themselves and allow the music to inspire them. It’s created positive infl uences in their attitudes, performance in school and lives in general. It has taught them to live with passion.

Th e school’s music program was discovered on YouTube and since then the doors have fl ung wide open and they’ve been performing all over the country, most recently at the Oscars. Watching the children sing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” you can see each one’s individuality and freedom to connect with what they’re singing.

Th e story of this music teacher and program can be applied to so many areas of our lives. It’s most often used as an example of the importance of arts in the school system, but I believe it’s so much more. Th e core of the story is that someone chose to follow their passion and invest into others’ lives. Th e results are astounding.

In this month’s Focus there is a story of equal inspiration. Read the spotlight interview with Shirley Whitney. You will learn of a woman who has a track record in following her passion and helping other people. Most recently she has joined the team at READ Polk. Th is organization helps fi ght against adult literacy by tutoring adults with a 4th grade or under reading level. Even though she’s leading the team, the success of READ Polk is a result of hundreds of people who have stepped up and said they are willing to make a diff erence. Adults’ lives are permanently changed and their eyes opened to the world around them because someone decided to be passionate about fi ghting illiteracy and helping others. Th e results speak for themselves. Check out the spotlight interview this month to learn more.

For the last couple months I have shared with you about the 11 Adventures of 2011 that our staff has decided to take on. Th ere’s a follow up article this month fi lling you in on our latest adventure at Boing Jump Center, and many more are to come this year. Th e decision to follow your passion whole-heartedly is an adventure entirely of it’s own, and its an adventure I hope you soon decide you’re ready to make.

Letter From the PuBLisher

Mike FloydPublisher

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Fri 11am to close - sat 4pm to close

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this month the staff at FOCUS Magazine departed on another adventure as part of the 11 Adventures of 2011. Last month we tore up the race track at Ambassador Racing School in Wimauma. Th is time we planned our adrenaline trip to a hugely popular BOING Jump Center in the Brandon/Tampa area.

If you missed our report in the November 2010 issue of Brandon FOCUS, here’s the deal: BOING! is a vast high-fl ying indoor jump center made of 11,000 square feet of trampolines covering huge arenas from fl oor-to-wall.

We strapped on some specially designed jumping shoes, lined up for a few rules, and then we began a tour. We fi rst approached a huge arena designed for free-style jumping and acrobatics. Th e bounce mats are gridded off into sections with padded borders to keep the trampoline taut to provide the highest jumping possible. Th e walls are pitched to assist with acrobatic tricks. In the center stands a column made of yet more trampolines. After we got the okay from the referee we all clamored onto the bounce mats like puppies and fanned out across the arena. Julie, Holly, and Angel jumped in and took a few minutes to get acclimated to the sensation of being airborne. Th e guys, Mike Floyd, Anthony, Tony, and Jason seemed bound to impress upon one another who would be the fi rst expert jumper.It was just a few minutes in and we were all panting! Our second wind came, though, and, feeling reenergized, we began to take on more daring tricks; Mike challenged Anthony to see if he could jump across each long section of trampoline landing but once, as he could do. Th e kids ran around with their protective helmets on and had a blast right alongside the adults. Sweaty after ten minutes, we all walked out of the freestyle area and up the steps into the dodge ball arenas. Colored balls lay on the center line, ready for us to grab them and await the referee to signal the start of the game. As we would soon discover, players enjoy a super intense match, leaping high over line drives while beaming a ball down on your opponent from 10 feet in the air, and getting speed on your throws from inertia that couldn’t otherwise be mustered if not fl ying toward your opponent in mid-air. It’s more like dodge ball played in a spaceship than compared to playing it in your grandmother’s driveway.

Several employees brought their kids along, too. “Just as many high school and college-aged people come here as kids do, and maybe even north of that,” said Michael Canales, owner, in our original interview in September. “We defi nitely have activities for all ages as long as you can get on a trampoline.”

We found that playing dodge ball against kids turned out to be a challenge. One could clobber a child in baseball easily, but one could not so easily clobber a child in BOING! dodge ball, where, compared to you, children are smaller and sometimes more dexterous. Trying to hit them was like trying to shoot a cricket with a bb gun. But, we adults, too, had advantages over the kids. All in all, we found this to be a wonderful and unique medium in which to play on equal footing with our kids. In that regard, compared to other physical activities, this might be one of the best of its kind.

We walked down the steps and crawled, one at a time, through a trap door into the “Aero ball” arenas, a game where two-teams-of-two get on individual trampolines and try to score points by leaping high and shooting a ball into the goal above the opponent’s head. Four played at a time, giving the rest of us a chance to pat down our foreheads and rest in front of a huge blowing fan positioned on the sideline.

We had a blast, being physically wiped out after about an hour. We all felt that the great cardio and muscular exercise, besides the insane fun, was arguably the best feeling from going to BOING! After our hour was up we realized we had received one of the best and most unique workouts of our lives. Jumping and learning new stunts was almost as intense as trying to beat children at BOING! dodge ball.

See you next month for another edition of FOCUS Magazine’s 11 Adventures in 2011. In the meantime, bounce over to BOING! and see what we’re talking about! Visit www.boingjumpcenter.com for more info.

this month the staff at FOCUS Magazine departed on another adventure as part of the 11

Adventure Two

Go Online To Check Out THe full Video atwww.myfocustv.com

FocusTV > Plant City

BOING! Jump Center


Journey with Jane

LocaL » Focus

Written By: cheryL Johnston

Jane Waters-Thomas has plenty of reasons to be happy - work she loves, life with a purpose, friendships that encourage, and

a new husband with whom she can share her journey.

Today the journey has Jane entering her 10th year of maintenance weight loss, a passion for boxing, and a desire to help others achieve wholeness through diet, exercise, art, and new purpose through the Arts Ensemble Education Foundation/Healing Arts Center.

Her new husband, Paul Thomas, a freshwater biologist for the Florida Fish and Game Commission, now works alongside her as an instructor. He works with men frequently referred by girlfriends or wives to achieve weight loss and weight lifting goals.

Of their September 1, 2010 marriage, Waters-Thomas said: “A great marriage brings balance to life. We ran off to get married, which totally floored everyone in the community. The rest of my world is so public that I wanted our vows to be private.”

Waters-Thomas is the Executive Director of the non-profit organization established in 2008. A life-threatening major medical situation at age 31 prompted her to train for

two years learning the discipline of boxing, which ultimately led to substantial weight loss.

Work now includes the management of a fully functioning working gallery with three resident artists and five volunteer art instructors, a senior’s in-home art program, Gin Gin’s Secrete Project, children’s outreach

programming, and Wings, a personal growth program.

Painting, sketching, writing, quiet time in relaxing spaces; a shared moment with an artist or instructor that offers possibility for calm, peace, and understanding - for healing and new direction - it’s all good.

Waters-Thomas knows about healing because she’s experienced it herself. After her heart attack, she knew health must be a priority because her son needed her, so she began boxing workouts with Berto. When friends couldn’t do the strenuous stuff, she started leading fitness classes for $5.00 a session. Thus, another cause, Boxing for Life was born and continues today at the same affordable $5.00 each class.

This boxer believes “Life is about a fight, a fight to find the Self,” and says, “My work

is to help others find the strength to stand up and fight… One-on-one training is a very intense experience. Spiritual connection is a part of that. Remember, it’s not just about weight. It’s about losing the fear and embracing the journey. “

What she enjoys most about her work with both AEEF / HAC and Boxing for Life, is: “I’m thankful I get to talk with people

every day. I believe we should all tell our life story to someone close because it may save their life.” Visit Waters-Thomas at www.artsensemble.com or www.boxingforlife.net.

One thing she knows for sure, “There is not a One Size Fits All weight-loss program! People share common stress, habits, and responsibilities, but when they break free from expectation and live according to purpose and higher-self, they can not only achieve real weight-loss, but also land on lifetime happiness. Boxing for Life is about fighting against the things in life that stop the journey to wellness.”

Everyone is invited to discover a new health. Waters-Thomas says, “It will forever be my mission to change lives and improve communities through the visual and spiritual healing arts. Come on in - kick your shoes off and find your place on life’s mat! We

have room for you, and our hearts are open to you!”

ArtsEnsemble International is located at 1000 American Superior Blvd, Winter Haven Florida, 33880. Phone 863-293-2700 or view website: www.artsensemble.com.

40th Birthday - PauL and i at my Birthday Party Where he ProPosed in august 2010 - married sePtemBer 1st. Photo courtesy of Jane Waters

run team - this is the heart oF Who i am, Bringing PeoPLe together Who may have never comPeted or even thought that they couLd try, giving them Wings and Watching them FLy to success. Photo courtesy of Jane Waters

“art” is art for the sake of its creator. it does not know illness, disease, or inability; it only knows of expression and healing.”

- Jane Waters-thomas ”


lake wales kiwanis cluB

LocaL » Focus

Written By: anDreW moore

For the past 35 years, the Lake Wales Kiwanis Club has turned eating pancakes into a good deed.

On March 5, 2011, the 35th Annual Pancake Breakfast will be held at the Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Lake Wales. Th is event is the club’s only annual fundraiser, and is the primary source of funds for the many youth programs the club supports.

A $4.00 ticket in advance or $5.00 ticket at the door includes entry to an all-you-can-eat feast of pancakes, sausage links, orange juice, and coff ee.

Kiwanian Marty Hancock says much of this food is made available through donations.

In 1983, when Hancock began working the breakfast, the local IHOP store approached the club and said, “Let us help you with this.”

From that year on, IHOP has donated all of the pancake batter used for the breakfast.

“[IHOP manager] Donna Kidd is really indispensible,” Hancock says.

“We couldn’t do it without the support of IHOP,” says Kiwanian Larry Tonjes.

“We cook 90 gallons of pancake batter, 360 pounds of sausage, 8 gallons of syrup — we probably sold 250 gallons of coff ee, 600

half-pints of milk, and 40 gallons of O.J.,” says Hancock.

In addition to IHOP, orange juice is donated by Florida’s Natural, and milk is donated by Velda Farms.

Marty Hancock is described by fellow Kiwanian Larry Tonjes as the “indispensible coordinator” of the Pancake Breakfast.

Hancock says he will have his golf-cart at the church on Saturday and will be shuttling guests to their cars after breakfast, if needed.

Over the past 35 years, the event has been held at only three locations – previously at McLaughlin Middle and Lake Wales High School.

When the high school’s cafeteria underwent construction, the location was switched to Holy Spirit. Tonjes says the church allows the Kiwanis Club to use the space at no charge.

“Holy Spirit is an ideal location with plenty of parking,” Tonjes says.

According to Tonjes, members sell an average of 1,500 tickets to Pancake Day each year.

“We get a lot of compliments on the taste and quality of the breakfast,” Tonjes says.

And if all-you-can-eat is too tame, there will again be a pancake eating contest this year.

Th ree-member teams will race to see which group can fi nish a plate of pancakes the quickest. Past teams have included the Lake Wales Fire Department, Police Department, and Webber and Warner University sports teams, among others.

Pancake service begins at 7 and ends at 10 a.m. Th e pancake eating contest and a live auction will follow breakfast. A

silent auction and a Country Store will be ongoing throughout the day.

Some of the youth organizations Kiwanis Club supports include Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, Circle of Friends, the Boys and Girls Club, Care Center, every elementary school in Lake Wales, both middle schools, and the high school.

In addition to supporting community organizations, the Lake Wales Kiwanis Club was involved in the construction of Barney’s Dream at Kiwanis Park. Barney’s Dream is an all-inclusive playground adjacent to Lake Wailes Lake that is designed to allow children of varying abilities to play on the same equipment, side-by-side.

Barney’s Dream was conceived by Kiwanian Barney Moore, who led the eff ort to raise funds for building the park. Recently, with support from the Kiwanis Club, fi ve new additions for toddlers to climb in, crawl over, and ride on were added to the park.

After 35 years, Hancock says the Pancake Breakfast is a well-oiled machine.

“Th e guys and girls just get in there and really knock it out,” Hancock says of the all-volunteer staff that makes the breakfast possible.

“Once you start cooking for those 4-5 hours, you never stop,” Hancock says.

Holy Spirit Catholic Church is located at 644 South 9th Street, Lake Wales, FL 33853

kiWanis Park in Lake WaLesPhoto by Andrew Moore

35th annuaL Pancake BreakFast

a recent addition to Barney’s dream, suPPorted By the Lake WaLes kiWanis cLuBPhoto by Andrew Moore


LREADLPolk Changes Lives

Story by Cheryl Johnston | Photos courtesy of Shirley Whitney

Leaders are readers and READ Polk is doing its part to make certain that Polk County has more than its share.

Th e countywide non-profi t coalition utilizes volunteers from businesses and the community-at-large who are dedicated to improving adult literacy through individual tutoring and instruction. READ Polk has councils in Fort Meade, Lakeland, Haines City/Auburndale, and Lake Wales. Councils arrange for the volunteers and READ Polk does the training.

People who read at or below 4th grade level are considered to be functionally illiterate. Florida has the third lowest adult literacy level of all 50 states, behind California and current reports indicate that approxi-mately 30% of adults in Polk County are marginally literate.

Read Polk works with adults 16 years and older. Grace Vallier is the coordinator in Lakeland. She is cur-rently tutoring an 84-year-old who’s discovering the joy of reading. Th e teaching strategies used employ phonics. After Grace assigns a trained tutor to a specifi c student, the two might meet at the Learning Resource Center or in the local library. Weekly sessions are approximately 90 minutes long. For more information, feel free to contact Grace at 863-802-1512.

September is National Literacy Month. Th is and any month is the perfect time to get involved in making sure that children and adults in your community can read! In honor of this, the annual adult Spelling Bee is held in the Nora Mayo Hall in Winter Haven. Th is year the fi erce but friendly competition is September 22 from 6-9:30 p.m. As the largest fundraiser to benefi t READ Polk, the event is always well attended. Corporations sponsor tables at the venue, which allows them a representative who competes in the bee. Th e traveling trophy is displayed by the winning organization and is always a source of community pride in the fi erce but friendly competition. Each year a TV personality emcees the event and two surprise celebrity bartenders that potential attendees won’t want to miss serve up drinks and charm. A silent auc-tion adds to the fun. John Small’s Polk County School Board Workforce Education currently displays the trophy and will have to relinquish it in September unless they prevail again this year!

Shirley Whitney is the new Executive Director of READ Polk. Among her duties are fundraising, com-munity relations, public relations, and volunteer and board recruiting. She is accountable to the READ Polk board of directors. Her passion is reading and helping others to fi nd enjoyment through reading.

Two tutors after successful training


She said, “We are proud to provide one-on-one tutoring for adults who want to learn to read and improve their lives.”

Th e new position seems a perfect fi t for Whitney, a member of the Florida Public Relations Asso-ciation. As the Polk County chapter’s community project chairperson, she coordinates the Fill-a-Bucket for Polk Schools campaign and last year, along with Teresa O’Brien from the school board facilitated a community project,“Style Your Sole”, when the founder of California-based Tom’s Shoes (he prefers to be called the Chief Shoe-giver) Brent Mycoski was in Lakeland at Florida Southern as the speaker for their convocation. College students “love” Tom’s shoes and the fact that they donate a pair of shoes to children in the United States and other countries where children have no shoes.

She retired from Good Shepherd LifePath Hospice after working in the areas of fundraising, community relations, and public relations. She enjoys people and networking, and actually came out of retirement because she truly believes in this READ Polk mission. She said, “Reading has always been important to me and this is why it touches my heart.”

Whitney moved to Lakeland from Decatur, Illinois in 1979 with her husband of 44 years, Dick, to escape the cold and snow. Th e couple has a son and daughter in the Chicago area and two granddaughters in college. As the Whitneys were raising their children, an unspoken rule in the home was this: Anytime the kids wanted a book, they got one.

One of her immediate duties is to build the board of directors by recruiting local business profes-sionals or anyone concerned about literacy and education.

Another ongoing responsibility for Whitney is the recruiting of volunteers. Folks need only be willing to help and able to commit a few hours each week. READ Polk will make certain they are equipped to tutor. A recent training day for potential tutors was posted fi ve times in Th e Ledger. As a result, more than 25 were trained and a number were put on the list to wait for the next session.

Th e workshop organizers got the attention of trainees at the luncheon served that day. Th e menu was posted in Russian to help attendees get a sense of what people who can’t read, feel like. Sadly, people who can’t read, can’t follow direc-tions, read the recipe, complete a job application, or help children with their homework.

Community members who want to avail them-selves from surrounding areas can contact READ Polk to be directed to the proper council. Th e of-fi ce is located in the Polk County School Board in Bartow. For more information on literacy services

or how to become a volunteer tutor, please call 863-797-6253 or e-mail [email protected].

For those who would like to learn, Shirley says, “Call me so I can encourage you. It’s the right thing to do at any age. You are never too old and your life will be enriched. All students are aff orded the courtesy of confi dentially.” She explained that the big stumbling block with adults is “they are ashamed to admit they can’t read and they think they’re too old.” Th e coordinators take special care to assign tutors they think will be a complement to the learners’ particular needs.

Once a client has learned to read profi ciently, he or she might be directed to obtain their GED and enter the adult tech school to receive training that might help them fi nd work or better work with an increase in wages.

One young woman, Lynn Tanner, volunteers for a special reason. - to pay it forward. As a young child, she had many learning disabilities. A 5th grade reading teacher helped her so much that it changed her attitude towards school and learning.

“If adults can’t read, they can’t help children, and families lose,” said Whitney. Terry enrolled in the READ Polk program as a 31-year-old eighth grade dropout. Two years later, his reading comprehension levels have improved greatly and he’s a greater asset to his business. Now he’s even tutoring his fi ve-year-old grandson.

Lenka came to the U.S. 13 years ago from the Czech Republic with a dream. But her inability to read meant menial jobs and low pay. When she read a yellow brochure at Dollar General, the title grabbed her attention: “Do You Want to Learn How to Write and Read English?”

In February her tutor suggested she submit her writing online for a contest. Her essay was se-lected for publication in the 2010 Adult Learner Essay Book for Florida Literacy, making her a published author. She said, “Now every day I wake up and feel so blessed. Th anks to READ Lakeland, I have things in my life to look forward to. I have my dreams back.”

READ Polk would like to thank their dream building sponsors - Mosaic, Publix Supermarket Charities, Polk Education Foundation, NCT (CPAs), Florida’s Natural, and the United Way of Central Florida. Dollar General Corporation helps with grant money. Verizon, Walmart, Bright House Networks, Citizens Bank & Trust, and Sam’s are also supporters.

Visit the READ Polk site (www.readpolk.com) or contact Shirley Whitney at 863-797-6253 for training event detail or volunteer information. Teaching someone to read is a gift like no other.

She said, “We are proud to provide one-on-one tutoring for adults who want to learn to read and improve their lives.”

Th e new position seems a perfect fi t for Whitney, a member of the Florida Public Relations Asso-ciation. As the Polk County chapter’s community project chairperson, she coordinates the Fill-a-Bucket for Polk Schools campaign and last year, along with Teresa O’Brien from the school board facilitated a community project,“Style Your Sole”, when the founder of California-based Tom’s Shoes (he prefers to be called the Chief Shoe-giver) Brent Mycoski was in Lakeland at Florida Southern as the speaker for their convocation. College students “love” Tom’s shoes and the fact that they donate a pair of shoes to children in the United States and other countries where children have no shoes.

She retired from Good Shepherd LifePath Hospice after working in the areas of fundraising, community relations, and public relations. She enjoys people and networking, and actually came out of retirement because she truly believes in this READ Polk mission. She said, “Reading has always been important to me and this is why it touches my heart.”

Whitney moved to Lakeland from Decatur, Illinois in 1979 with her husband of 44 years, Dick, to escape the cold and snow. Th e couple has a son and daughter in the Chicago area and two

College students “love” Tom’s shoes and the fact that they donate a pair of shoes to children in the

raising their children, an unspoken rule in the home was this: Anytime the kids wanted a book, they got one.

One of her immediate duties is to build the board of directors by recruiting local business profes-sionals or anyone concerned about literacy and education.

Another ongoing responsibility for Whitney is the recruiting of volunteers. Folks need only be willing to help and able to commit a few hours each week. READ Polk will make certain they are equipped to tutor. A recent training day for potential tutors was posted fi ve times in Th e Ledger. As a result, more than 25 were trained

a son and daughter in the Chicago area and two granddaughters in college. As the Whitneys were raising their children, an unspoken rule in the

next session.

Th e workshop organizers got the attention of trainees at the luncheon served that day. Th e menu was posted in Russian to help attendees get a sense of what people who can’t read, feel like. Sadly, people who can’t read, can’t follow direc-tions, read the recipe, complete a job application, or help children with their homework.

Community members who want to avail them-selves from surrounding areas can contact READ Polk to be directed to the proper council. Th e of-fi ce is located in the Polk County School Board in Bartow. For more information on literacy services

Ledger. As a result, more than 25 were trained and a number were put on the list to wait for the next session.

Travis just participated in the 9 hour training and received his certifi cate as a tutor!

Tutors working in pairs during training.


in 1976 Dr. Sam Barranco, founder of Th e Barranco Clinic, hadn’t had a day off in six years, so he took on a partner, Dr. Deane R. Briggs. After 35 years Dr. Briggs is retiring on May 1, 2011. Th e reason Barranco hadn’t had a day off was because of his commitment

to his patients. For the next 25 years Barranco and Briggs would build a successful medical practice on that foundation, a commitment to their patients.

Dr. Barranco died unexpectedly 10 years ago, and the friendship and partnership felt for him by Dr. Briggs was clear when he added to one of his answers regarding Barranco, “I wish he were here,” in a low, quiet voice.

Th e medical practice is one aspect of Brigg’s life, and his retirement is noteworthy; how-ever, we learned that he is an extremely interesting man. As northern transplant, Briggs has served this community as both physician and citizen, immersed himself in Florida’s history and heritage, and enjoys collecting art and going to the opera. A Renaissance man – who chose to put down roots in Winter Haven…

Focus: Dr. Briggs, thanks for speaking to us and congratulations on your upcoming retirement. I read your bio on barrancoclinic.com and I don’t remember if it said so, but I got the distinct impression you’re from the Midwest. If so, how did you come to Winter Haven and to � e Bar-ranco Clinic, more specifi cally?

Dr. Briggs: I grew up in Dearborn, Michigan. My father was an engineer with the Ford Motor Company; in fact, he worked on the original Mustang design. My training and practice centered in Chicago except for two years with the US ARMY at the Fort Gordon Medical Center in Augusta, Georgia. My wife Jonye is from the south and wanted to live there again. I liked a lot about living in Chicago, but I had this memory of playing tennis on Christmas Day while stationed in Georgia, so I was at least intrigued by the possibility.

DR. DEANE R. BRIGGS, M.D.

Continued on page 14

Interview by: Brent Simmons | Photos by Brent Simmons and Courtesy of Dr. Deane Briggs.


We were introduced to Dr. Barranco, and spent sometime getting to know him, his wife, and Winter Haven. When he off ered me the partnership, we were ready. It wasn’t an easy choice to make, but we have never regretted it.

Focus: What was the hardest thing you considered back then about the move?

Dr. Briggs: Culture. We thought we were going to miss not being able to go to a ball game or the opera and it was hard to contemplate giving them up. In fact, we’ve found the cultural environment in and around Winter Haven to be robust, so we really haven’t had to give up anything. We go to the Opera in Tampa and Orlando and now both cities have professional teams.

Focus: What’s been most rewarding to you professionally?

Dr. Briggs: Th at I’ve been successful helping people while doing something I like and am good at.

Th e clinic because I’ve watched it grow from just the two of us in one offi ce to six offi ces and it still centers on our commitment to providing Quality and Personal Care. I’m proud to have had the opportunity to work with Dr. Barranco and I’m proud of what we built together…I wish he were here.

I’m rewarded to see how far the Winter Haven Hospital has come. I remember having our surgeons’ meetings in the cafeteria. It has become a great hospital and it has been rewarding being part of that.

Focus: I understand that you are active with the Florida Postal History Society. How did you get interested in postal history and what is the aim of the FPHS?

Dr. Briggs: I collected stamps as a boy and I loved history, so I was ripe when I met Harold Gobie, a postal historian, who had worked at the Miami Post Offi ce. My friendship with Harold turned my childhood hobbies into a passion. I helped get FPHS going and served as its fi rst president. Now I edit the Florida Postal History Journal and write for it. I’ve also written a book on the subject that I hope to revise shortly.

I’d say FPHS’ aim is to preserve Florida’s Postal History and be a resource for anybody inter-ested in it. www.FPHSonline.com is our website.

Focus: What sort of things do you collect?

Dr. Briggs: Documents that were sent or received via post in Florida and documents that pertain to the operations of the Postal System in Florida. Th is was the only way to commu-nicate over long distance and long distance meant something diff erent to them than it does to us. I have a letter in my collection written to a Mr. Sparkman in Cork, Florida (just north of Plant City) and postmarked in Bartow. We don’t think that is so far to travel, from Bartow to Plant City, but in the 1800s that was a long and potentially dangerous trail. Florida was such an inhospitable environment and traveling was such a rigorous ordeal, that these letters represent perhaps the only communications with family and friends. Th rough them we can see the importance of the postal system, and into it - to watch it work.

You are also looking into people’s lives, certainly the letter writers’, but the postmasters’ lives, as well. All this begins to paint a picture what life was like, and who was here living it.

Focus: How did your fi rst ventures in collecting go?

Dr. Briggs: My fi rst auction was an estate breaking up a very good collection. I did some research and put bids in. I wound up buying half the collection because nobody else bid on it.

Focus: What other interests do you have?

Dr. Briggs: We collect art and still go to the opera. My wife has been involved in the Garden Club for a number of years, and we are members of the Dundee Citrus Growers Association, too. We love to travel and can’t wait to visit grandchildren.

Focus: Is there anything you’d like to say to your family, co-workers, and patients?

Dr. Briggs: I have good memories of my practice here and my association with Dr. Barranco. I have great respect for the clinic’s current partners and staff . Our nursing and administrative staff s are the best. Th is is a great community to live, work and raise a family. Th ank you for everything.

Continued from page 13


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FOCUS Magazine winter haven march 2011 17FOCUS Magazine winter haven march 2011 17

what’s free in 2011?stingray chevroLet entertainment tent scheduLe oF events

Strawberry Festival organizers know how to pack the house and there’s no doubt about it. One of the secrets to that success is the lineup of local talent and fun-to-watch performances at the Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent.

From music and dance to exercise and eating contests, the free venue off ers something everyone can enjoy. What parent, grandparent, friend, co-worker, neighbor, teacher, or church member doesn’t want to come and see the people they know and love take the stage and inspire an audience?

School choirs, choruses, bands, and orchestras always draw a crowd, as do young danc-ers, baton twirlers, and karate kickers.

Th e 2011 lineup also includes several serious competitions, such as the Celebrity Dessert Challenge, the Youth Parade Awards, and the Youth Strawberry Stemming Contest.

With the incredible amount of talent sure to be displayed by local performers and musicians, it’s no wonder there might be a few scouts in the audience.

Be sure and check out the 1st Ever Mega Corndog Eating Contest and the Straw-berry Shortcake Eating Contest, too. If you plan to compete, you’ll need to practice in advance by sampling all the fi ne food the festival vendors have to off er.

Should you eat too much, don’t worry. Be happy. Seniors can teach us all a thing or two about staying in shape or tightening the belt a notch as the YMCA Silver Sneakers group demonstrate ways to have fun and stay fi t.

Stingray Chevrolet has sponsored the entertainment tent for the last three years and fi nds it a great form of exposure and advertisement.

Since the community minded dealership actively supports many of the great happen-ings in our town, it’s our hope that when locals need another vehicle, they will shop local with Stingray.

march 3, 201111:00 .........Springhead Elementary School ............................................ School Chorus1:00 ........... “Celebrity Dessert Challenge” .................. Sponsored by: GFS Marketplace3:30 ...........Klassic Kountry Kloggers ...................................................Clogging Group4:30 ...........Steve Selby ........................................................................................ Soloist6:00 ...........Strawberry Squares .............................................................Square Dancing7:00 ...........Brandon School of Dance Arts ..............................................Dance School

march 4, 201111:00 ......... J.S. Robinson Chorus ........................................................... School Chorus12:00 .........Shining Knights ................................................................... School Chorus1:00 ...........Ella Jet .............................................................................................. Soloist3:30 ...........Buddy Brown .......................................................................................Band5:00 ...........Double Trouble ..................................................................... Country Duet6:00 ...........Double Barrel Band .............................................................................Band7:30 ...........Heather Leigh & 2nd Chance Band ....................................................Band

march 5, 201111:00 .........At His feet Ministries ............................................................ Dance Group12:30 .........Youth Parade Awards ................................ Sponsored by: Th e Civitan Club2:00 ...........Youth Stemming Contest ........................Sponsored by: SunnyRidge Farm3:30 ...........Celebration Singers .................................................... Gospel Music Group5:00 ...........T.A.G. Team ................ Kid’s Worship Team - Plant City Church of God6:00 ...........Central Florida Academy of Etiquette ................................... Dance Group7:00 ...........Carol Grayson’s School of Dance ...........................................Dance School

march 6, 2011 11:00 .........Gospel Truth Quartet ................................................ Gospel Music Group12:00 .........Sonshine Quartet ....................................................... Gospel Music Group1:00 ...........Spirit Wind Trio ........................................................ Gospel Music Group3:00 ...........Peace River Quartet ................................................... Gospel Music Group4:00 ...........Heavenly Hope .......................................................... Gospel Music Group5:00 ........... Judy’s Dance Academy ...........................................................Dance School6:30 ...........Heanon Tate ................................................................ Gospel Music Band

march 7, 201111:00 .........Durant High School Choruses ............................................ School Chorus1:00 ...........Grand Parade- Viewing available inside Tent4:00 ...........Lincoln Elementary School Chorus .................... School Chorus/Ensemble5:00 ...........Ashley Shannon ................................................................................ Soloist6:00 ...........Buckshot Cloggers .............................................................Clogging Group7:30 ...........Dance Carousel ......................................................................Dance School

march 8, 201110:30 .........Bryan Bulldog Chorus ......................................................... School Chorus11:15 .........Bryan Ethnic Performers ........................................... School Dance Group12:00 .........Bailey Chorus and Drum Ensemble .................................... School Chorus2:00 ...........Strawberry Stemming Contest .................Sponsored by: SunnyRidge Farm 3:30 ...........Wilton M. Stokes ...................................................................Gospel Music 5:00 ...........Th e O’Brien Sisters .......................................................................... Singers6:30 ...........Performer’s Edge Dance Studio .............................................Dance School7:30 ...........Eden Regained ........................................................... Christian Rock Band


march 9, 201111:00 .........Amanda Massey ................................................................................ Soloist1:00 ...........1st Ever Mega Corndog Eating Contest ........... Sponsored by: Super Dog2:30 ........... John Summerall ................................................................................ Soloist4:00 ...........Lithia Springs Lynx Choir ................................................... School Chorus5:00 ...........Shelly Stark .............................................................. Country Music Singer6:00 ...........Resilience Road ....................................................................................Band7:30 ........... Jackie’s Dance Th eatre ............................................................Dance School

march 10, 201111:00 .........Burns Middle School Chorus .............................................. School Chorus12:00 .........White Lightning Cloggers .................................................Clogging Group1:00 ...........YMCA: Silver Sneakers ......................................... YMCA Exercise Group3:00 Strawberry Shortcake Eating Contest Sponsored by: St. Clements “Make Your Own Shortcake”5:00 ...........Charlie Ries .........................................................................................Band6:30 ...........Patrick Patriots Twirling Corps............................................Baton Twirling7:45 ...........Faces South ........................................................................Rockabilly Band

march 11, 201111:00 .........Progress Village Middle Magnet ......................................... School Chorus12:00 .........Trapnell Elementary Chorus ................................................ School Chorus1:00 ...........You and Me ........................................................................... Country Duet3:00 ...........Billy T. Elvis ...................................................................................... Soloist4:00 ...........Bianca Swilley ................................................................................... Soloist5:00 ...........L.A.D. ....................................................................................Dance School6:30 ...........Entertainment Revue .............................................Song and Dance Troupe7:30 ...........Rave Revue.............................................................Song and Dance Troupe

march 12, 201111:00 .........Plant City Church of God ...... Gospel Music Group - Worship Arts Team1:00 ...........Strawberry Express Cloggers .............................................Clogging Group2:30 ...........Orlando Cloggers ...............................................................Clogging Group4:00 ...........South Shore Rising Stars .......................................................Dance School5:30 ........... Julestarz Academy .................................................................. Dance Group7:00 ...........Chris Welbon Karate ............................................... Karate Demonstration8:15 ...........Th e Academy of Dance Dynamics .........................................Dance School

march 13, 201111:00 .........Clogging Connection .........................................................Clogging Group12:00 .........Glee .................................................................................................. Singers1:00 ...........Gulf Coast Cloggers ..........................................................Clogging Group2:30 ...........Nate Maloney .............................................................. Gospel Music Band4:00 ...........Music Showcase Elite ...................................................................... Singers5:00 ........... June and John .......................................................................................Duet 6:00 ...........Brian Bracey and One Reason ...............................................Gospel Music7:00 ...........Leonard’s Dance Academy ..................................................... Dance Group


4:00 ...........Music Showcase Elite ...................................................................... Singers5:00 ........... June and John .......................................................................................Duet 6:00 ...........Brian Bracey and One Reason ...............................................Gospel Music7:00 ...........Leonard’s Dance Academy .....................................................Leonard’s Dance Academy .....................................................Leonard’s Dance Academy Dance Group

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to Produce the ParadeWritten by: Brian West | Photos courtesy of: The Plant City Photo Archives

Th e Florida Strawberry Festival parade is one of the largest parades in Hillsborough County. Th is event for the people of Plant City also deserves credit for its longevity. But over the last few years, the parade just hasn’t been the same. Th e tragedy of the Christmas Parade a few years ago cast a sorrowful shadow, and people seemed afraid to have a little fun during the parades.

Th is year, the Florida Strawberry Festival has arranged with Berry Fine Productions to produce this year’s parade. Jodi Smith founded the 501(c)(3) organization and created a board in her own personal attempt to establish a philanthropical group. Smith said, “I am excited to be a part of such a fun-fi lled event that really demonstrates what Plant City is all about. Th e Parade is a family fun day; a day everyone looks forward to all year!”

Th is year will be a little diff erent. You’ll see Brown’s Florist handing out fl owers and Uncle Joe’s Roasted Corn giving out corn-on-the-cob nibblers. Smith really wants this year’s parade to be more interactive, rather than just people waving at each other during a drive by procession of cars and fl oats. Th e reigning Miss Florida, Jaclyn Raulerson, will serve as this year’s Grand Marshal.

Al Berry is working with Smith to re-establish a tradition that his sister, the former City Manager, Nettie Draughton and City Commissioner Betty June Barker, started years ago. Th e two would meet in Draughton’s offi ce at City Hall, just prior to the start of the parade. Th ey’d put on makeup and clown suits and slip into the parade unnoticed. Berry is working to revive the “City Clowns” for this year’s parade. Several city offi cials have already secretly volunteered to participate. Berry and Smith are hoping more will get involved.

For questions about the parade, please feel free to contact Jodi Smith at [email protected]. Ad-ditionally, those interested in joining the clown fun should contact Al Berry at 813-763-2220.

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It’s that time of year again. On Saturday evening, February 5th, the 2011 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen and her court were named. This year, Victoria Watkins was named Queen, Victoria Garren is the First Maid and Taelor Highland, Kori Lane and Summer Norris were selected as court members. Every year, we seem to get such a great group of young ladies, and this year is no different. They are each so different and unique, and yet there are so many endearing qualities they share; they are genuine, sweet and kindhearted. I had a few minutes recently to meet the court and here’s what they had to say.

Interviews by Brian West Photography by Stephanie Humphrey Photography

Meet the

Queen & Court2011 Florida Strawberry Festival


Victoria WatkinsMeet the Queen

Th e Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s pageant is always a big even in Plant City. Th is is the 76th anniversary of the Festival, and it was a special night. Victoria Watkins was crowned as the 2011 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen. Just three days into her reign, I had an opportunity to speak with Victoria about being crowned Queen.

Focus: Tell me about your family.Watkins: My family has been here for 5 generations. I actually learned when I was getting ready for Strawberry Queen, that my great-great-grandfather helped lay the railroads right along side Henry B. Plant. Th at was a cool piece of history to learn. So my family wasn’t just here, they were a part of it. And that just got me more excited about the pageant.

Focus: How many siblings do you have?Watkins: I have two older sisters, Ashlee and Allie, and a younger brother, Michael. Ashlee is married and lives in Colorado and Allie is in college at Florida State University, so they’re not here with me now. But I also have a cousin, Joie, that is older than me too, and she’s lived with me for most of my life, until she graduated, so she’s really like a sister to me.

Focus: Was this your fi rst pageant?Watkins: No. I competed in Little Miss Plant City when I was 10 years old. Victoria Garren and I both got in the court and Ashlyn Robinson was the Queen. So it’s cool that I’ve known them for so long, I guess that‘s Plant City for you! I tried doing Junior Royalty like 5 years in a row, but I never got drawn in the lottery, so I couldn’t do it. Th e last year I was eligible, I just decided that I wouldn’t get drawn, so I didn’t enter. Two years ago, I did Miss Teen Plant City USA. Th at was really fun. It was the fi rst time they’d ever done the Plant City Miss Teen. It was held at the Red Rose. I was supposed to go on to represent Plant City in the Miss Teen Florida USA pageant, but I just wasn’t as interested in the USA circuit. Strawberry Queen had drawn my attention more because of what the Queen represents.

Focus: Did your sisters try to impart anything on you to help you prepare for the pageant?Watkins: Th ey’re both busy, but they’d stay in touch with me asking how things are going. During Christmas time, they came down. Th ey were there when I got my dress. Th ey got to be a little part of it but not as much as I would’ve liked. Ashlee told me over and over again, “Just have fun. If you win or lose, it doesn’t matter because these are girls you get to make friends with.” When we were backstage waiting for the announcement of the top ten, I was so nervous. Th en we started watching Jeopardy and were trying to guess the answers. It was like we totally forgot about the pageant. We were just enjoying being with each other. And that’s something I miss. I miss that girl time with my sisters. I defi nitely made friends, so Ashlee was right about that.

the fi rst time they’d ever done the Plant City Miss Teen. It was held at the Red Rose. I was supposed to go on to represent Plant City in the Miss Teen Florida USA pageant, but I just wasn’t as interested in the USA circuit. Strawberry Queen had drawn my attention more because of what the Queen represents.

Focus: Did your sisters try to impart anything on you to help you prepare for the pageant?Watkins: asking how things are going. During Christmas time, they came down. Th ey were there when I got my dress. Th ey got to be a little part of it but not as much as I would’ve liked. Ashlee told me over and over again, “Just have fun. If you win or lose, it doesn’t matter because these are girls you get to make friends with.” When we were backstage waiting for the announcement of the top ten, I was so nervous. Th en we started watching Jeopardy and were trying to guess the answers. It was like we totally forgot about the pageant. We were just enjoying being with each other. And that’s something I miss. I miss that girl time with my sisters. I defi nitely made friends, so Ashlee was right about that.

I love to cook. All day, every day. I’d probably be skinnier,

because when I cook I don’t eat as much.

What is one thing you will not leave home without?

My phone. I don’t like to text. I need it more to help me stay

organized and prepared.

Favorite Food?

Mexican or anything spicy.

Would you rather be rich, famous, smart or gorgeous?

(You can only pick one)

Smart. If you’re smart, you can get the others.

Whats the biggest risk you’ve ever taken?

Flying on a plane to New York City. I was just in a car accident

last week, and I didn’t realize how scared I was until we were in

the air.

Favorite Family time?

Football season. I love to cook with my dad. We make wings and

cheese sticks and just hang out watching the games.

Who is one person you would like to meet and why?

Guy Fieri. I don’t watch a lot of TV, but when I do, I watch his show

– Diners, Drive ins and Dives. I’d like to have my own diner one

day and be able to meet him through that experience.


Focus: You and your sisters are so well grounded. Is there something that your parents did that stands out to you?Watkins: Yes. Th ey’ve lightened up now that we’ve gotten older, but they used to be really strict. At the time, when they were strict, I wouldn’t be allowed to go somewhere or see a certain movie because of the rating. As a 13 year old girl, not being allowed to go along with your friends seems like the end of the world. But now when I look back on it, I’m so glad that they kept me protected the way that they did, and that they’ve talked to me about the things that they don’t want me to experience. I know those things are there, but I know to stay away from those things. Th at’s something that I hope I can do when I have kids. Not shelter them too much so that they’re completely blindsided by things in this world, but make sure that they know what not to experience. I honestly think the biggest key for me to have a chance at winning, was to be humble. I cannot tell you how surprised I was that I won. I know that if it wasn’t for the fact that I thought that I didn’t have a chance in the world, I wouldn’t have done as well. If I had gone out thinking, “I’m ready for this. My sisters got it, so I can.”, there’s just no way I would have done a good job. If I had expected it, it would have never happened. I think that’s something else my parents have taught me. You have to work your hardest for what you want, and you still may not get it.

Focus: Tell me what things have been like for you in your fi rst few days as Queen.Watkins: It’s been a whirlwind. Honestly, I keep forgetting that I have the crown on my head. So when people look at me and smile, I think, “Oh, how nice. People are smiling at me.” I wore my sash to school on Monday and it was so great. People were so nice. Th ey were coming up to me and congratulating me. And that’s so hard to believe that even girls my age that I didn’t know were excited for me. In Plant City, people just care about each other, and we get excited for each other. Th is is a great experience. I know that I’m going to be so involved with the community this year even after high school. I’ll still be able to be involved. It’s just such an honor that I’m getting this experience and getting to meet all the people that run our great city.

Focus: Tell me your plans after high school.Watkins: I’m a senior at Plant City High School. In the past I’ve taken a lot of AP classes but this year I only took one. Right now I have a 5.5 GPA, so I’m kind of done with the AP classes; I need a break. I’m planning to go to HCC fi rst after graduation. I work at Beef O’Brady’s and this month I’ll have been with them for a year. I can’t imagine leaving there. I really enjoy my job. I enjoy working with all the girls and they want me to stay, which means a lot to me. After HCC, I plan to attend a Culinary School and open my own diner some day. I need to learn more about cooking, but it will be an amazing journey.

Focus: Is there something you’re looking forward to in your year as Queen?Watkins: I think for me, I’m really looking forward to the whole Festival. It’s going to be really exciting. Every year, my family has one day that we all load up and go together. We just eat and ride the rides; except for me because I’m scared. We haven’t been able to do that as much as a family since my sisters are growing up and aren’t at home as much. So I think I’m just looking forward to the whole Festival experience every day, actually being able to fi nd my way around the Festival. It’ll be an honor to be a part of it and actually know what I’m doing. I also love food. My favorite at the Festival is chicken on a stick. It’s basically just a giant chicken tender, but because it’s on a stick, it just makes it better I think.

Focus: Tell me something about yourself that not everyone knows.Watkins: I think the fact that I’m very diff erent from my sisters. We’re all completely, almost opposites from one another. Ashlee is so, so sweet. We call her Jesus’ sister because she’s just syrupy sweet all the time. You can’t make Ashlee mad. And if you do, you feel so bad because she’s just so sweet. And Allie’s got this spunk that she doesn’t let everyone see. It’s come out a little more that she’s gone off to college. I think that I’m just a mixture of them is something that’s unique. I get along with them so well now that I’m older, and you don’t always see that in families. We can all pick on each other, use sarcasm, whatever, and we’re all loving at the same time. Even though I’m a lot like my sisters I think I see the world a little diff erently sometimes.

It is so clear that Victoria will do a wonderful job as Queen. She has a level of maturity a few years beyond her age. She’s very focused in what she wants to do with her life. She’s thankful for the way she and her sisters and brother have been raised, which is a testament to her parents. Congratulations Victoria. We wish you all the best in your year as Queen. Take it all in and enjoy every moment.

Victoria Watkins

Focus: Are you originally from Plant City?Highland: No. I was born in Texas and my family moved here when I was 4 years old. My dad is from Plant City and my mom was always coming to Plant City to visit her friend. After my parents met, they started dating and eventually moved here.Lane: Yes. I live in Pinecrest, a little south of Plant City. I’m really close with my family.Norris: Yes. I grew up here in Plant City. I’ve been here all my life. My grandfather lived in Alabama and moved back and forth, but I’m the third generation. My grandparents live in the backyard and my sister lives an acre away. Garren: Yes. I’ve grown up around Plant City all my life.

Focus: Do you have any brothers or sisters?Highland: I have a baby brother. He’s three. Lane: I have an older brother who’s 25. He and his wife have an 18-month-old boy named Jackson. I also have a sister who is 22. I’m the baby of three, but we’re really close. We spend a lot of time together.Norris: I have a sister. She was in the court in 2003, Shana Norris. Shana’s married and she has a daughter Gracie. She’s two and she’s amazing. Garren: I have a brother named Kyle, and he’ll be 20 years old in March. He kind of looks over me. I love him to death.

Focus: Was this your fi rst pageant experience?Highland: No. I competed in Little Miss Plant City in 2004. Th en I didn’t do any pageants for a while until this past year when I competed in Calendar Girl at my school.Lane: No. When I was eight, I competed in the Junior Royalty pageant. I was in the top 5, so I got in the court and then I did it again two more years in 7th and 8th grade and I got on the court both times in the Queen division. My sophomore year, I competed in Calendar Girl and was the fi rst underclassmen to win cover girl. Norris: I did Little Miss Plant City and Junior Royalty and got into the court a long time ago. Th is is my third time competing in the Queen’s contest. Th e fi rst time, my family wanted me to do it since my sister got into the court. Last year was a tough year because the Tuesday before the pageant my great-grandmother passed away. I was really close to her. She was in a nursing home and I was even closer to my great-grandfather. Th e Wednesday before the pageant I got laryngitis. When I wasn’t selected, it was almost a relief. It was a blessing in disguise. Th at night, we left to go to Alabama to my great-grandmother’s funeral. I was able to talk at her funeral, and I was surrounded by my friends and family. And it meant so much that I was there for my great-grandfather. Even though I lost an opportunity with the Queen’s contest, I gained an opportunity with my family. It was such a blessing. You just never know what God has in store for your life. Th is year, I went out for it. I gave it my best and knew that God had a plan. Garren: I’ve done pageants since I was really little. After my fi rst pageant, there were girls crying because they didn’t make it, and my mom said, “If you ever do that, I will never put you in a pageant again. You don’t do pageants to win. You do pageants to have fun and for the experience. Th ey’re a great way to interact with the community and earn scholarships.

Focus: What interested you in competing for Strawberry Queen?Highland: When I competed in Little Miss Plant City, Katie Sharer was Queen. I idolized her. I remember she had a Volkswagen Beetle and I told my mom that I wanted to be just like Katie. So I was so excited when I went to the mandatory orientation for Strawberry Queen contestants and learned that Katie was going to be the emcee and she would be going on the trip to New York. Th at’s when I decided it must be a sign, and I had to go for it.Lane: Like most girls, just growing up in Plant City, I always wanted to do it. I’ve always been really shy and the talking portion scared me. But when I was in

Meet theCourtFocus: Are you originally from Plant City?Highland: My dad is from Plant City and my mom was always coming to Plant City to visit her friend. After my parents met, they started dating and eventually moved here.Lane:family.Norris: lived in Alabama and moved back and forth, but I’m the third generation. My grandparents live in the backyard and my sister lives an acre away. Garren:

Focus: Do you have any brothers or sisters?Highland:Lane: named Jackson. I also have a sister who is 22. I’m the baby of three, but we’re really close. We spend a lot of time together.Norris: and she has a daughter Gracie. She’s two and she’s amazing.

Court

Norris:long time ago. Th is is my third time competing in the Queen’s contest. Th e fi rst time, my family wanted me to do it since my sister got into the court. Last year was a tough year because the Tuesday before the pageant my great-grandmother passed away. I was really close to her. She was in a nursing home and I was even closer to my great-grandfather. Th e Wednesday before the pageant I got laryngitis. When I wasn’t selected, it was almost a relief. It was a blessing in disguise. Th at night, we left to go to Alabama to my great-grandmother’s funeral. I was able to talk at her funeral, and I was surrounded by my friends and family. And it meant so much that I was there for my great-grandfather. Even though I lost an opportunity with the Queen’s contest, I gained an opportunity with my family. It was such a blessing. You just never know what God has in store for your life. Th is year, I went out for it. I gave it my best and knew that God had a plan. Garren:girls crying because they didn’t make it, and my mom said, “If you ever do that, I will never put you in a pageant again. You don’t do pageants to win. You do pageants to have fun and for the experience. Th ey’re a great way to interact with the community and earn scholarships.

Focus: What interested you in competing for Strawberry Queen?Highland: I idolized her. I remember she had a Volkswagen Beetle and I told my mom that I wanted to be just like Katie. So I was so excited when I went to the mandatory orientation for Strawberry Queen contestants and learned that Katie was going to be the emcee and she would be going on the trip to New York. Th at’s when I decided it must be a sign, and I had to go for it.

I love to practice American Sign Language and have the opportu-

nity to interact with the deaf community. It is such a neat experi-

ence and it is really awesome to know you can communicate in a

different language with a different culture.


I will not leave home without my ipod. I love all kinds of music,

mostly country, and that is what keeps me going throughout

my day.

Favorite Food?

My favorite food is Macaroni and Cheese



I would rather be smart because with smarts you can go along

way in life for what you can accomplish through hard work and

dedication, rather than how you look, how much money you have,

or who you know.


The biggest risk I have ever taken is when I got over my fear of

upside down rides, and fi nally took the leap of faith to just go for it.


My favorite family time is just everyone gathering together to play

board games at nana’s house and enjoying each others company.


The one person I would like to meet is Dan Marino, he has gotten

so far in life and accomplished so much because of his dedication,

perseverance, and will to help and impact others. I feel like he

is a great role model, and is someone who has impacted many

peoples lives in such a positive way.

I love to go shopping with my mom!What is one thing you will not leave home without?My Ipad i use it for EVERYTHING!

Favorite Food?Steak

Would you rather be rich, famous, smart or gorgeous? (You can only pick one)Smart, it opens up so many possibilities in life that can later lead to being rich and famous!Whats the biggest risk you’ve ever taken?Running for Strawberry Queen, it was only my second pageant and i had no idea what to expect going in it but it turned out to be amazing and i’m so honored to represent the festival this year!

Favorite Family time?Just spending time with my mom,dad, and little brother Ethan. They mean the whole to me and nothing can top hanging out and laughing with them!

Who is one person you would like to meet and why?Dr.Rey from “Dr.90210”. He an amazing plastic surgeon and aspire to be like him one day.

First Maid

Court Member

Victoria Garren

Taelor Highland

middle school, I joined FFA and that really helped me come out of my shell. I did public speaking contests and that really helped me open up and help me prepare for Strawberry Queen.Garren: It’s just a great opportunity to represent Plant City.

Focus: Where are you currently attending school?Highland: I’m a junior at Durant High School. I went to an International Baccalaureate School in Tampa, so when I transferred to Durant, I didn’t know anyone. It took a little getting used to, but I’ve made a lot of friends and I like Durant.Lane: I’m a senior at Durant. It’s great. I love it. I’m in Leo Club and I’m a varsity cheerleader and this is my second year cheering. And I’m a part of the senior council, which is a lot of fun. It keeps me busy doing community service stuff and getting kids involved in school spirit and getting ready for pep-rallies and all kinds of stuff . Norris: I’ll be graduating from HCC with my Associate’s degree in Elementary Education and then transferring to the University of South Florida in the fall.Garren: Yes. I’m attending Florida Southern College. I’m the co-captain of the cheerleading squad, and I just got a letter in the mail last week that I made the Dean’s list my fi rst semester. It was a big accomplishment. I’m working on a double major in Broadcast Journalism and Advertising.

Focus: Do you know what you want to do next with your lives?Highland: Yes. I want to go to the University of Florida and major in pre-medicine. I want to be a plastic surgeon. I’m always watching Discovery Health and reconstructive surgery really interests me. I just think it would be so cool to be that person that’s able to help people boost their confi dence. I think it would be the best job ever, getting to do something diff erent every day. Lane: I plan to attend Hillsboro Community College and work on my business degree. I’m really interested in cosmetology, so I want to get my license. I’ll probably do that through Plant City High School. Th ey have a night program and I’ll probably do that while I’m getting my business degree. When I fi nish at HCC I’d like to transfer to the University of Central Florida.Norris: I’m volunteering at Walden Lake Elementary in Mrs. Giff ord’s 3rd grade class. When I graduate, I really want to teach 3rd grade. Garren: Th e Miami Dolphins are my favorite team and I’d really like to be a Dolphins cheerleader. But eventually I want to end up being a sports broadcaster on the sidelines covering football or baseball.

Focus: Tell me something about yourself that not everyone knows.Highland: [With a straight face] I tend to think that I’m the best singer in the world. I’m always running around my house hitting the high notes. I could even be in the shower. My parents are always like, “Taelor! It’s not good.” For me, it takes someone to videotape me before I have my own realization that I’m really not that good. I love Kenny Rogers, so I’m really excited that he’s coming to the Festival this year. I love “Lady.”Lane: Since I’m shy, it takes a little while for people to get to know me. But when they do, I think I’m really funny. My parents always joke with me. I like the Saturday Night Live skits and the Tyler Perry movies. I’m always quoting movies and being goofy, and a lot of people wouldn’t expect that from me.Norris: Most teenagers like to listen to the radio. I don’t. I love listening to people talk. Everyone hates riding with me, especially when Dr. Tony Evans comes on 90.1 at 11 o’clock. I just love hearing people preach or talk. It’s just so entertaining to me. And the news! I love the news. What 19-year-old likes to listen to the news or traffi c reports? I know what’s going on.Garren: I’m fl uent in American Sign Language. When I was little, I watched a Christian video where they signed the alphabet. So when I got to high school, I thought it would be cool to learn. I love it. Th ey have deaf nights in the food court at the Brandon Mall. It’s really cool to be able to walk past them and be able to communicate with them.

It’s always a pleasure to spend time with the new Queen and her court, and this time was no diff erent. Th ey’re all excited about their trip to New York City to shop for outfi ts for their year representing our great city and the Florida Strawberry Festival. Th ey’re also looking forward to spending time watching the entertainment, meeting the headline entertainers, and even supporting their friends in the steer show. Th ey’re a great bunch of girls, and once again, we can be proud they’ve been selected to speak on our behalf.

Th ank you, ladies. We wish you the best of luck this year and hope you enjoy these once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Love Love to be outdoors. Hunting, fi shing, swimming anything to

do with the outdoors I love being adventurous.


Will not leave home with out my cell phone. Have been known to

turn around and go back to make sure I have it with me. It is my

lifeline.

Favorite Food?

My favorite food is Collard Greens with homemade pepper sauce.



Smart- Being gorgeous and all the others are great but when

you are smart you have the ability to make better decisions and

accomplish things you wouldn’t be able to.


When my family was in Colorado Springs we went to the top of

Pikes Peak. I am deathly afraid of heights but I fi nally to a step of

faith while holding my father’s hand and stood on the edge. It may

have only been for a moment but I am so glad that I took that leap

of faith.


Family time would have to be our family vacations every year to

Englewood. The whole family gets together and we all have a blast.


Esther from the bible. It is amazing that God chose to use such a

beautiful woman to accomplish his will. Her faith, courage and

obedience in such a trying time is amazing.

I love to dance & play with my little nephew. What is one thing you will not leave home without? My cell phone Favorite Food? I’m defi netly not a picky eater, so its hard to pick a favorite ... but i love my mom & grandma’s southern-style cooking! Would you rather be rich, famous, smart or gorgeous? (You can only pick one) Smart, because knowledge can get you a lot further in life then being rich , famous, or gorgeous. Whats the biggest risk you’ve ever taken? I’m not much of a risk taker, but i think living in this crazy world, everyday is a risk. Favorite Family time? I love spending time with my family, especially when theyre all over for dinner & we spend hours sitting at the dinner table telling stories & laughing. Who is one person you would like to meet and why? I would love to meet my Prince Charming ! ( haha )

Court Member

Court MemberSummer Norris

Kori Lane

Mrs. Evelyn Madonia - OwnerWWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COM

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

The Premier Showplace for Talent in FloridaMake Your Reservations Today For One Of Our Fabulous Shows!

FEBRUARY 18RICHIE MERRITTRichie Merritt, formally of the Marcels, will be per-forming in the Red Rose Dining Room.

FEBRUARY 19THE VAN DELLS50s & 60s Rock and Roll – The Van Dells are a uniqueblend of comedy, choreography and tight harmonies...the group is nonstop action from start to finish! Plus,PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds will also performbefore and after the show in the Red Rose Ballroom.

FEBRUARY 26THE LEGACY OF THETEMPTATIONSBack by popular demand. This group will thrill youwith the hits that we have loved for so long...including: “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg and “Papa WasA Rolling Stone!” Plus, Richie Merrit and PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds.

MARCH 5LOLA & THE SAINTSDoo Wop At Its Best! Relive the 50s & 60s as though itwas yesterday. “Forever in Love,” “Just Over theBrooklyn Bridge.” Plus, PJ Leary & The Las VegasSounds.

MARCH 11 & 12DOOWOP WEEKEND - VOL. 5The annual is event is underway for another spectacular extravaganza! The celebrity line up includes: The DelPrados, George Galfo’s Mystics, The Edsels (performing Saturday night only!), Terry Johnson’s Flamingos, P.J. Leary & The Las VegasSounds, Destiny andRalph Allocco & Second Wind.Many activities areincluded to enhance the weekendand totake a trip down Memory Lane, including HulaHoop, Dance and Costume contests!

MARCH 19 & 25JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las VegasSounds perform before and after the show.

MARCH 26BUDDY HOLLY & THE BEATLES TRIBUTE SHOWA tribute to two of music’s historical cutting age acts - Buddy Holly & The Beatles. BeatleBeat previously performed at Disney’s Epcot and was a big crowd pleaser. If you loved Holly and the Beatles, this is an act not to miss! Plus, Holly’sCadillac, which also took the Beatles to SheaStadium in the 60s, will be here to see!

APRIL 2BOB RYMAN “THE FIDDLER”Bob Ryman “The Fiddler” was a legend in the area formany years when The Red Rose was Lanny Purcell’sHoliday Inn and was also a favorite at Florida TheStrawberry Festival®. Because of his fans’ request, The Red Rose Inn is bringing “The Fiddler” back.P.J.Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds will open & closethe show in the Red Rose Ballroom.

APRIL 8, 16, 23 & 30RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

APRIL 9 & 22JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las VegasSounds perform before and after the show.

APRIL 24EASTER SUNDAY BUFFET

APRIL 29RICHIE MERRITTRichie Merritt, formally of the Marcels, will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room.

SHOW RESERVATIONSPlease call for ticket prices. Shows in the Red Rose Ballroom are in a supper

club atmosphere with a four course meal (seats also available for the show only – for a lower price!)

NO COVER CHARGE for shows in the 5-Star Red Rose Dining Room withthe purchase of dinner. Show Guests - inquire about our special room rates

when staying overnight after a show!

MARCH 11 & 12

RRCalendar_Brandon_FEB11:Layout 1 2/4/11 6:44 AM Page 1

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Thursday, March 3rdSenior Citizen’s Day | Ride-A-Thon Day

Patrons 60 years of age or older get $2.00 off the gate admission of $10.00 all day. Senior Day is Sponsored By: The Simplicity Plan. Ride-A-Thon from 3:00pm until 11:00 pm. A wristband purchased at the Midway for $19.00 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides for this one low price. Celebrity Dessert Challenge Sponsored By: GFS Marketplace.

10:00 am ................... Gates Open .............................Midway Opens at 12:00 noon10:00 am – Close ..... Poultry & Rabbit Shows ....................... CF Industries Ag Tent10:30 am – Noon ...... Jimmy Sturr & Orchestra• ................. Wish Farms SoundstageNoon ........................... Senior Citizens’ Drawing• ..................Wish Farms Soundstage

(One drawing only-MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN)1:00 pm ..................... Celebrity Dessert Challenge ..................... Stingray Chevrolet ......................................................................................................Entertainment Tent3:30 pm ..................... Bobby Vinton ................................. Wish Farms Soundstage7:00 pm ..................... Youth Swine Show ................ Patterson Co. Livestock Arena7:30 pm ..................... Kenny Rogers ................................ Wish Farms Soundstage

FrIday, March 4ThMoonlight Magic Night

Moonlight Magic – Ride most mechanical rides for one special price of $20.00 per person. All patrons entering the Midway for this event will be required to purchase a $20.00 wristband, 11:00 pm until 3:00 am. All patrons entering the grounds are subject to search. Dairy Shows Sponsored By: Tractor Supply Company.

10:00 am ................... Gates Open ............................. Midway opens at 12:00 noon10:00 am – Close ..... Poultry & Rabbit Shows ...................... CF Industries Ag Tent1:00 pm ..................... Dairy Contestant Judging ...... Patterson Co. Livestock Arena3:30 pm ..................... John Conlee .................................. Wish Farms Soundstage7:00 pm ..................... Youth Swine Sale .................. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena7:00 pm – 10:00 pm . Hola Plant City .......Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent7:30 pm ..................... .38 Special ..................................... Wish Farms Soundstage11:00 pm – 3:00 am .. Moonlight Magic ..........................................................Midway

2011 FlorIda sTrawberry FesTIval schedule oF evenTsFREE GRANDSTAND: Limited stadium seats “FREE” for all shows with general admission. Seating is on a first-come, first seated basis. Stadium shows are at 3:30 pm and 7:30 pm daily. Stadium cleared after each 3:30 pm show.

Reserved seat tickets available at the Ticket Office located at 2209 W. Oak Ave., Plant City, FL 33563. An additional ticket office adjacent to east side bleachers open during Festival to sell any remaining reserved seat tickets. Reserved concert seat Tickets DO NOT include gate admission. Ages 3 & up require a ticket for shows.

You can purchase reserved seat Tickets online at www.flstrawberryfestival.com.

Gates open at 10:00 am & close at 10:00 pm daily. Children 5 & under are admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. Children 6 to 12 require a youth ticket purchase of $5.00. General admission is $10.00 for patrons 13+. Dogs and/or other animals are not allowed on the festival-grounds unless they are a service or guide dog, non-human primate or animals in a show or contest. Certified trainers (with ID stating same) of companion dogs/animals will be allowed. All animals in shows or contests are to be removed immediately after the close of the event.

No illegal drugs, firearms, alcoholic beverages, or pets are allowed on the Festival grounds.

Because of the early printing of this events schedule, changes, errors, deletions, or omissions may occur, in which case the Florida Strawberry Festival® reserves the right to construe its own rules and regulations and to decide all matters and differences in regard thereto.

saTurday, March 5ThKids’ Day

Kids through high school age admitted free all day. Youth Stemming Free Contest Sponsored By: SunnyRidge Farm.

10:00 am ................... Gates Open ................................ Midway Opens at 10:00 am10:00 am – Close ..... Poultry & Rabbit Shows ....................... CF Industries Ag Tent 11:30 am ................... Youth Parade ...........................................Downtown Plant CityNoon. ........................ Dairy Show Showmanship .... Patterson Co. Livestock Arena1:00 pm ..................... Suite Caroline ................................ Wish Farms Soundstage2:00 pm ..................... Youth Strawberry Stemming ..................... Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent2:00 pm ..................... Dairy Show ............................ Patterson Co. Livestock Arena3:30 pm ..................... Jeremy Camp ................................ Wish Farms Soundstage7:00 pm – 10:00 pm . Hola Plant City .......Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent7:30 pm ..................... Gaither Vocal Band ....................... Wish Farms Soundstage

sunday, March 6ThMountain Dew Family Day

Bring a Mountain Dew can to the Festival and receive a voucher for $5.00 off the $25.00 wristband and ride all day for only $20.00. Mountain Dew can is not valid for gate admission.

10:00 am ................... Gates Open ................................ Midway Opens at 10:00 am10:00 am – Close ..... Poultry & Rabbit Shows ....................... CF Industries Ag Tent11:00 am ................... Adult Showmanship (Dairy) .. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena11:30 am ................... Pee Wee Showmanship (Dairy) ....... Patterson Co. Livestock Arena12:30 pm ................... Dairy Costume Ball ............... Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 2:00 pm ..................... Youth Plant Sale .................................. CF Industries Ag Tent3:30 pm ..................... Trace Adkins .................................. Wish Farms Soundstage3:45 pm – 4:45 pm ... Registration for Baby Contest ............Sweetbay Supermarket ................................... (Hillsborough County Babies Only) ................. Showcase Tent 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm ... Baby Contest: Decorated Diaper Contest; Baby Features Contest; Diaper Derby (Hillsborough County Babies Only)7:30 pm ..................... The Judds ...................................... Wish Farms Soundstage

Monday, March 7ThGrand Parade Day | Ride-A-Thon Day

Ride-A-Thon from 10:00 am until 11:00 pm. A wristband purchased at the Midway for $19.00 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides for this one low price. Grand Parade Day Sponsored By: United States Marine Corps. Lamb Contests Sponsored By: ASAP Rental Equipment & Sales

7:30 am ..................... Farm Credit Strawberry Salute Breakfast .............. Invitational10:00 am ................... Gates Open .................................Midway opens at 10:00 am10:00 am – Close ..... Poultry & Rabbit Shows ....................... CF Industries Ag Tent10:30 am ................... Invitational Parade Luncheon ...Sponsored by: Regions Bank1:00 pm ..................... Grand Parade Begins ..............................Downtown Plant City2:00 pm ..................... Grand Parade Passes by the Festival3:30 pm ..................... Charley Pride ................................. Wish Farms Soundstage5:00 pm ..................... Lamb Jumping Contest ........................ CF Industries Ag Tent6:00 pm ..................... Lamb Show .......................................... CF Industries Ag Tent7:30 pm ..................... Clint Black ..................................... Wish Farms Soundstage

2011 FlorIda sTrawberry FesTIval schedule oF evenTs

Tuesday, March 8ThRed Hat Day | Ride-A-Thon Day

Ride-A-Thon From 3:00 pm until 11:00 pm. A wristband purchased at the Midway for $19.00 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides for this one low price. Red Hatters get $2.00 off the gate admission of $10.00 all day. Red Hat Day Sponsored By: Red Rose Inn & Suites. Adult Stemming Contest Sponsored By: SunnyRidge Farm.

10:00 am ................... Gates Open .............................Midway Opens at 12:00 noon10:00 am – Close ..... Poultry & Rabbit Shows ....................... CF Industries Ag Tent10:30 am ................... Red Hatters Welcome ...........................................Grandstand2:00 pm ..................... Adult Strawberry Stemming Contest ...........................Stingray ....................................................................................Chevrolet Entertainment Tent3:30 pm ..................... Chubby Checker ........................... Wish Farms Soundstage7:00 pm ..................... Lamb Costume Contest ....................... CF Industries Ag Tent7:30 pm ..................... Chris Young ................................... Wish Farms Soundstage

wednesday, March 9ThAmerican Heroes Day | Ride-A-Thon Day

Ride-A-Thon from 3:00 pm until 11:00 pm. A wristband purchased at the Midway for $19.00 will entitle wearer to ride most mechanical rides for this one low price. All active, reserve, retired military, veterans, law enforcement & fi rst responders admitted free with valid ID. American Heroes Day Sponsored By: FOX 13 CARE*FORCE

10:00 am ................... Gates Open .............................Midway Opens at 12:00 noon10:00 am – Close ..... Poultry & Rabbit Shows ....................... CF Industries Ag Tent1:00 pm ..................... Superdog Corndog Eating Contest ........... Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent3:15 pm ..................... Honor American Heroes ............... Wish Farms Soundstage3:30 pm ..................... Tanya Tucker ................................. Wish Farms Soundstage6:00 pm ..................... Youth Steer Show ................. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena7:30 pm ..................... Rick Springfi eld ............................. Wish Farms Soundstage

Thursday, March 10ThSenior Citizen’s Day | Ride-A-Thon Day

Patrons 60 years and older get $2.00 off the gate admission of $10.00 all day. Senior Day is Sponsored By: The Simplicity Plan. Ride-A-Thon from 3:00 pm until 11:00 pm. A wristband purchased at the Midway for $19.00 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides for this one low price.

10:00 am ................... Gates Open .............................Midway Opens at 12:00 noon10:30 am – Noon ...... The Guy Lombardo Band ............. Wish Farms SoundstageNoon ......................... Senior Citizens’ Drawing ................ Wish Farms Soundstage

(One drawing only – MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN)3:00 pm ..................... Strawberry Shortcake Eating Contest ....... Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent3:30 pm ..................... George Jones ................................ Wish Farms Soundstage7:30 pm ..................... The Doobie Brothers .................... Wish Farms Soundstage


FrIday, March 11ThThe Tampa Tribune Day on the Midway

Moonlight Magic Night

The Tampa Tribune Day on the Midway Noon to 10:00 pm - $2.00 off the regular price of $20.00 Fun Pack Ride Coupon Book. Patrons can receive the coupon from TBO.COM or The Tampa Tribune, which must be presented at time of purchasing the Fun Pack Ride Coupon Book. Sponsored by: The Tampa Tribune. Moonlight Magic – Ride most mechanical rides for one special price of $20.00 per person. All patrons entering the Midway for this event will be required to purchase a $20.00 wristband, 11:00 pm until 3:00 am. All patrons entering grounds are subject to search.

10:00 am ................... Gates Open .............................Midway Opens at 12:00 noon3:00 pm – 5:00 pm ... Livestock Contestant Judging Patterson Co. Livestock Arena3:30 pm ..................... Ray Price ........................................ Wish Farms Soundstage6:00 pm ..................... Showmanship Judging-Beef Breed . CF Industries Ag Tent7:30 pm ..................... Spirit Song .............Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent7:30 pm ..................... Josh Thompson/Justin Moore ..... Wish Farms Soundstage11:00 pm – 3:00 am .. Moonlight Magic ..........................................................Midway

saTurday, March 12ThFarm Worker Appreciation Day

Farm Worker Appreciation Day Sponsored By: Wish Farms.

10:00 am ................... Gates Open ................................ Midway Opens at 10:00 am10:15 am ................... Baby Parade ...............................................................Stadium3:30 pm ..................... Allstar Weekend & Jennette McCurdy ..............Wish Farms Soundstage7:00 pm .................... Youth Steer Sale ................... Patterson Co. Livestock Arena7:30 pm – 10:00 pm. ............ Rev. Art Jones and the Bible Based Fellowship Church Cathedral Choir ..........................................Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent7:30 pm ..................... Billy Ray Cyrus .............................. Wish Farms Soundstage

sunday, March 13ThMountain Dew Family Day

Bring a Mountain Dew can to the Festival and receive a voucher for $5.00 off the $25.00 wristband & ride all day for only $20.00. Mountain Dew can is not valid for gate admission. Beef Breed contest Sponsored By: Purina Mills®

10:00 am ................... Gates Open ................................ Midway Opens at 10:00 am11:00 am ................... Youth Beef Breed Show ....................... CF Industries Ag Tent3:30 pm ..................... Easton Corbin ............................... Wish Farms Soundstage7:30 pm ..................... Lady Antebellum ........................... Wish Farms Soundstage


FOCU

STV

WATCH

Check out our daily coverage of the Florida Strawberry

Festival Eventswww.myfocustv.com


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family royaltyWhat did you eat When you Were Pregnant?

is there something in the Water?Written by: Brian West | Photo by: Sophia Hyde

Th e home of Michael and Heather Watkins is a special place. Th ey’ve parented four girls and a boy, and they’ve worked very hard to raise caring and respectful children. But every parent knows that parenting just isn’t easy.

In 2005, their oldest daughter, Ashlee, was named the 2005 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen. In 2007, daughter, Allie, was selected as the First Maid. Now, youngest daugh-ter, Victoria, has been crowned 2011 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen.

So did Heather eat something when she was pregnant with the girls? Heather said, “When I was pregnant, I went to bed every night with each of my pregnancies, listen-ing to classical music. To this day, they all like it. It’s relaxing.”

Michael and Heather talked a lot about how they’d raise their children. Heather said, “We’ve always been family focused. We wanted our family focused here [at home] as a unit.” It may have had an impact.

Each of the girls are well grounded, approachable, and have excellent social skills. Heather said, “We wanted them to be kids, but we wanted them to be safe. When they were little, I’d let them fi nger-paint on the kitchen fl oor, roller skate in the house, even stand on the end tables and dance. Other parents would come over, and they’d say, ‘Oh my gosh! You’re letting them jump on the couches? ’ We just never cared about them doing things kids do to have fun. We just wanted them to be safe.”

On the other hand, the Watkins were careful to instill discipline in their children. Watkins said, “What I didn’t approve of was them being sassy to each other or to me. I wanted them to have good manners and a responsibility to themselves to behave in a way that wasn’t hurtful to someone else. Th ose were the things that were important, not whether or not I’d have to clean up something.”

Congratulations on a wonderful job of parenting, Michael and Heather. You’ve raised a beautiful family.

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Florida’s Work Comp Cumulative Rate Changes

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Business Owners, CFO’S,CEO’S & HR Directors

Work Comp rates are on the rise,do you have the facts?Florida Workers’ Compensation rates move in a 6 to 9 year cycle (graph above). Currently we are at the end of a long downward cycle. Rates went up this year an average of 7.8% across all class codes and Florida is expected to see increased rates, some years with double digit increases, for several years to come.

Experience Modification Factors, due to this downward cycle, are on the rise as well. This will compound the rise in cost until rates start to level off again.

WorkComp Partners has developed a system that can substan-tially limit this increase, while reducing your frustration with the Work Comp system at the same time.

Don’t wait until your workers compensation expense eats into your profits to take action. Call us today so we can help you implement your plan to contain this rising expense.

We are compensated by the insurance carrier. There is no fee for our services.


Winter Haven’s Premier Flor ist! !200 First Street South, Winter Haven, FL 33880

Call and Schedule Your Free Consultation

293-1900www.thewildhareFlowers.com

It is our passion to make the wedding of your dreams beyond memorable.

Your Locally Owned Bed Store Earning Your Trust for 27 Years!Polk’s Only Store with ALL Varieties of Beds and Mattresses!

SLEEP WORLD STOREWIDE SALEMATTRESSES, FUTONS, SOFA BEDS, DAYBEDS

AND ADJUSTABLE BEDSSAVE $100’S ON DISCOUNT FLOOR MODELS, INSTANT REBATES AND MORE!

Why Buy From Sleep World • Best Prices • Largest VarietyBest Warranty • Best Bed Experts • Best Brands

Becca lerned from her father to “be fair to people, work hard and charge a reason-able price.” That advice has served her, SleepWorld, and her customers for well over 27 years.

“SleepWorld’s personal service sets us apart from the rest, we are the best bed experts and carry the best and longest warranties.”

“We take the time to listen to what our customers’ needs are and fi nd the mattress to fi t their needs. I have spent over 27 years learning about mattresses and keeping up with the newest developments. It is very important to me to get the customer in the right bed.”

Visit SleepWorld’s showroom in the 7,000 SF building with the smily face, and you will fi nd the largest variety of mattresses in Polk County. “Before you buy a mattress, ask the sales person how long the store has been around,” says Becca. “So many have come and gone in the years that SleepWorld has been here. I built this building and this business, and have an “A+” rating with the Better Business Bureau.”

The mattresses at SleepWorld are warranted - some up to 20 years Non Prorated. Some other stores warranties are prorated mattresses.

“Sometimes the best beds are ones you’ve never heard of. A Non ProratedWarranty is the best.”

At SleepWorld you will fi nd the best selection of Solid Wood Futons with thick Innerspring Mattresses, making these futons not only sturdy but as comfortable to sleep on as they are to sit on. “You’ve got to see these futons.” We have customers who come in and say, “Oh no, I don’t want a futon. Then when they sit down on one of ours, they are simply amazed at the comfort.”

SleepWorld also carries a great selection of Adjustable Beds, Air Beds, Sofa Beds, Daybeds, Memory Foam, Latex, Bedroom Furni-ture, and both types ofWaterbeds, Traditional and Soft side.

The 700 Club sent a crew down from Virginia Beach to do a story about this small business in the middle of a recession having it’s best year ever. The credit goes to God, our custom-ers, and to being a locally owned and operated store in business for over 27 years. Most of our business is word of mouth referrals. Stop in soon.We would love to meet you.

Becca

294-9479 • 1806 First Street South, Winter Haven, FLwww.sleepworldwh.com


GET TO KNOW OUR DOCTORS: ROBERT CASSELL, MD, PHD.

For over 30 years, since graduating magna cum laude from Harvard and earning both a PhD and MD at Duke University, Dr. Robert Cassell has led the battle locally against cancer. He has practiced in Polk County for 25 years and has helped to bring new advances in cancer treatment to the local area. Just as important to his patients, Dr. Cassell is a genuine, compassionate professional – a doctor you want to have on your team.

At the Winter Haven Hospital Cassidy Cancer Center, we know that fighting cancer takes an experienced, multidisciplinary team. It’s why all of our physicians are board-certified. It’s why the Cassidy Cancer Center is affiliated with the University of Florida College of Medicine and Shands HealthCare and it’s why we’re proud to have doctors like Robert Cassell on our staff.

Compassion. Innovation. Trust. We’re your family’s choice.

For more information about our services or to make an appointment with Dr. Cassell, please contact the Winter Haven Hospital Cassidy Cancer Center at 863-292-4670.

“ I have spent my lifefighting cancer.”

Robert Cassell, MD, PhDMedical Director,Winter Haven HospitalCassidy Cancer Center

Elected by his peers for inclusion in Best Doctors in America® from 1998 to 2010.


Internal Medicine Group

400 Ave. K, S.E., Suite 11Winter Haven, FL 33880

863-294-4404www.internalmedicinegroupofwinterhaven.com

• Established in 1982• On Site Full Service Laboratory• On Site Routine Radiology

• Personal Comprehensive Care• Small Offi ce Environment with big offi ce services• Professional, Caring Staff

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T H E M O S T A D V A N C E D H E A L T H C A R E I S B A S E D O N T R U S T .

AN AFFILIATE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA COLLEGE OF MEDICINE AND SHANDS HEALTHCARE FIND A BOARD CERTIFIED DOCTOR CLOSE TO HOME:

Call the Winter Haven Hospital Physician Referral Line. 800-416-6705.

Winter Haven Hospital’s Bostick Heart Center is recognized by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons as being in the top 10 percent of Heart Programs in the United States, and ranked one of the nation’s Top 50 Heart Centers by a leading consumer advocacy magazine. We give our heart patients every possible advantage by combining the best clinical experts with the latest technologies and the most effective rehab services available. And it’s all backed by the hospital you trust, Winter Haven Hospital.

Learn more at www.winterhavenhospital.org or call 863-292-4688.

Compassion. Innovation. Trust. We’re your family’s choice.

Nationally recognized heart care is right here.

That’s the Bostick advantage.


GroominG DealsGrooming Deals celebrated their first

anniversary in business on February 6, 2011. Owner and groomer Angela

Todd reports they’ve had a very good year and have been blessed. “So many of my customers followed me, and we’ve made so many more friends – I really have to thank my loyal customers,” Todd said.

You don’t get loyal customers unless you’re doing something right, and the many times I’ve been in Grooming Deals I’ve noticed many of the things Angela is doing right to gain the trust, confidence, and loyalty of her clients. A concentration on customer service, a willingness to bundle services and offer greater value, a determination to provide outstanding care, and personal experience - all these are markers of a well-run business. What they point to is an underlying quality in the person of Angela Todd – she takes her business seriously.

She isn’t a somber person, though. She’s warm and funny and doesn’t take herself too seriously, but she takes a lot of pride in what she does and takes her business and customers’ needs seriously. Angela is quick with a smile and a story. She may not seem serious but consider her actions.

When she decided pet grooming was what she wanted to do, she attended classes and graduated from the Bay Area Pet Grooming Academy. After graduation she found employment as a groomer. She joined the

National Dog Groomers Association to stay informed and to network with other professional groomers. She took extra classes on Pet First Aid and Veterinary Medicine. This work is a serious commitment for Todd.

The office she opened on Sixth Street, just off Cypress Gardens Blvd., is clean, well designed professional space with the best equipment. The convenient location allows pet lovers to drop off their beloved friends, take care of some running around and come back to retrieve their groomed, pampered pets. Angela put a lot of serious thought into the location and design of her business..

She realized she could give clients greater value and great “Grooming Deals” by bundling the services pet owners wanted. “We can keep the boutique feel, but our package plans help us stay competitive,” Angela said, “It’s how we came up with the name, Grooming Deals. The packages we put together are Grooming Deals.”

I don’t have to say it - you see the pattern. She gave her pricing structure and even her business name serious consideration. As an owner she is committed to each client’s expectations and experiences, and as a groomer she wants to be the best she can be. Her staff is as serious about the profession as she is.

So why I have I painted such a serious picture? There are some things in life where I want serious people at the helm, not sulking,

drab, or stern people, but those who take what they do, not themselves, seriously. Angela has taken every opportunity to educate herself, to accomplish certification, and to stay involved in her profession. She is exactly the kind of person I wouldn’t mind leaving my pet with for a couple hours of much needed pampering (the dog, not me) - and if I’m going leave my pet with you - I want you to take what you do, well, seriously.

Business » Business ProFiLe

Written By: Brent SimmonS

GroominG DealS

1622 Sixth Street, S.e.Winter haven. Fl 33880863-294-PUPS (7877)WWW.GroominGDealS.com

“you don’t get loyal customers unless your doing

something right...”


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extra » auto revieW

these days, there seem to be lots of choices in the car market, and even more so in the hotly competitive

midsize segment. There are a lot of car makers, but only one with fewer letters in the name (AC), than Kia. I haven’t been a fan of foreign car makers beyond Honda, Nissan and Toyota – aside from the exotics, but Kia may be onto something with their 2011 redesigns. For the first time, they seem to be hitting the mark in styling. And Kia has been around long enough that they’ve shown they can be dependable, so I decided it was time for a closer look.

The Kia Optima got a bold facelift for 2011. We’re talking Mickey Rourke here, but in a

good way. It’s so good; it may have taken the Kia from a forgettable sedan to a car that could actually compete for best in class. Yes, it’s a huge statement, and an even bigger transformation. So it’s time to take a look.

The Optima has three trim levels: LX, EX and SX. Currently, the Optima is available in a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. However, early this year a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is slated be added, and later this year, an Optima Hybrid is scheduled to be available for “green” consumers. The power of the 2.4-liter is adequate, but there’s no doubt a turbocharger is a better idea. This Optima needs more power under the hood just to match the styling.

The interior is impressive. With plenty of passenger space compared to the competition, Kia ranks near the top of the list. From the driver’s seat you feel surrounded by comfort. The dash layout is very driver-oriented and the electronics are easy to use. They don’t require thought, and they just make sense. The Optima also comes with features like a USB port and Bluetooth. Heated and cooled seats are options, and you can also add a UVO, a system that provides voice controls to the stereo and phone.

Overall, if you’re looking for a good mid sized sedan, you’ll be doing yourself a favor to give the Kia Optima consideration – strong consideration. The Optima just seems to pull everything together to deliver what

midsized sedan shoppers are looking for: great styling, a comfortable interior, pleasing performance, a stack of standard features and an overall good value for the money.

The Optima won’t empty your bank account either. Depending on the trim package, you’ll land in the $19k-$25k range. Again, not bad for a midsized sedan, especially when you start comparing to the likes of the big three imports: Honda, Nissan and Toyota. It may not be best in class, but one thing’s for sure, the big three imports are looking over their shoulder.

successful facelift neW styLing is turning heads and making the comPetition take notice revieW By: Brian WeSt


extra » city oF Winter haven

like many Florida cities, Winter Haven began a growth spurt as a result of railroad expansion and the citrus

industry. The city’s “boom days” began in late 1924, according to Josephine Burr’s “History of Winter Haven, Florida.”

In the days soon after Winter Haven became a town, new families arrived starting businesses, as well as establishing citrus groves. Many of the groves were situated on various lakefront properties that have now for many decades been developed residentially.

The 1920 Census placed Winter Haven’s population at just shy of 1,600. By 1926 records show the number of people living in Winter Haven had multiplied more than 400 percent to 6,500.

In 1922 a program of improvement projects was launched across the city. More than 10 miles of asphalt streets complemented the previously laid 4 and one-half miles of roadway. A new City Hall had also been built at the southwest corner of Sixth Street and Central Avenue, where Popeye’s is now located. A new Chamber of Commerce was also established near City Hall.

Winter Haven’s first “big” building – the Haven Hotel – was completed in early 1924. It was soon followed by the American National Bank building, Phillips Professional Building and a postal building that is now known as Olde Towne Square. Each of these buildings still stands, with the exception of the American National Bank that burned in 2001 and a new building was constructed the following year.

The Haven Hotel, and others in the area, served as host to visitors during the land boom of the mid-1920s. In Winter Haven, the Haven-Villa Corporation included six businessmen who hired a sales director to sell home lots in the area. Their first “subdivision” was what is now known as Inwood, and lots sold for as little as $900, according to Burr. After several decades, the Haven Hotel fell into disrepair and was later converted to beautiful residences known as The Haven Condominiums.

Many of the early visitors began coming to Winter Haven by train after a new depot, of Spanish design was built in 1925 for $52,000. Prior to this, visitors arriving by train traveled along a line that connected

Lake Alfred, Winter Haven and Bartow. When the train engine, known as “Peggy” reached the end of the line, everyone available gathered to push her around on a turntable for the return trip.

With a new “white way,” as city streets with electric lights were historically called, and a new sewer system in the downtown area. Winter Haven had all the advantages of a real city, according to an anonymous historical account of Winter Haven. Considered a full service city with modern utilities, paved streets and access to arterial highways, Winter Haven was off and running just a decade after it was established.

“Boom Days”Written By: Joy toWnSenD

haven viLLa corPorationPhoto courtesy of The City of Winter Haven

city haLLPhoto courtesy of The City of Winter Haven

Lake region hoteLPhoto courtesy of The City of Winter Haven


faceBook movie

extra » aL reucheL

Several years ago when my youngest daughter entered UF, she told me about something called Facebook. I

remember at the time being slightly paranoid (which most fathers of college age daughters are) about the potential for abuse. Stalkers, rapists, Communist sympathizers, cats and dogs sleeping together, total conspiracy stuff flooding my ever-protective instincts. I did a story on it on TV and warned parents to monitor the situation carefully.

No one, not even Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook had any idea this would become one of the most popular and potentially society changing ventures. I’m still not completely sold on the idea of what Facebook has become or is becoming.

If you’ve seen the movie, Social Network, you know this idea was born in a cloud of deceit, burned friendships, ultra egos, out of control partying, and simple greed. There was quite a bit of genius tossed in along the way. Considering it doesn’t really create or produce anything, I’m stunned it’s valued at about 50-billion dollars.

So what’s good about Facebook? It does allow you to connect to an entire nation of folks who may or may not be your friends. You can share videos, pictures, quick messages and reconnect. That’s what I like most about it. I’ve been able to find friends I lost a zillion years ago in college. And the best part, it doesn’t cost me a dime. Mr. Cheap roaring to the surface.

Here’s what scares me. Information you post on Facebook is not protected by the First Amendment. You may think it is, but there are hundreds of cases going through the courts right now that fall on both sides of the issue.

Let’s say you start bad mouthing your place of work. You put a post on Facebook and suddenly it goes viral and everybody in the world knows how unhappy you are... including your boss. Not cool! Your boss sees the post you thought was private or at least only shared within your tight circle of friends, and you are fired. One of your friend’s, friend’s, friends is related to your boss. OOOpppps!

Wait a minute. I thought my post was just to my tiny circle of friends, not meant for viewing by the general public? Sure, but how many times have you gotten a request for someone to join your circle of friends and without thinking you click on the accept button? It happens all the time. Folks want those following numbers to grow and grow.

And sharing your college pictures of that huge drinking binge where you ended up dressing like a hooker or stripped to your underwear in a game of strip poker… you didn’t think that would become public? For crying out loud you PUBLISHED the suckers. What did you expect?

It reminds me of the scene in the movie, Social Network, where Mark’s girlfriend decides to dump him and scars him for life. In anger, he sends out an e-mail trashing her appearance, etc. Somehow it makes the rounds at Harvard... well, you know the rest of the story.

While the courts battle out the privacy issues, here’s a simple suggestion I’ve gotten from several legal Eagles in the Bay Area. If there’s anything on your Facebook page that isn’t flattering or shows you in an unfavorable light, get rid of it NOW! Also, pray someone hasn’t already copied it and it is floating out there for some future employer to discover about the moment you think you’ve got the job wrapped up.

And finally, if you don’t have something nice to say, as your grandmother told you, don’t say it. Don’t publish it. Because when you make a Facebook entry, or a Twitter entry… publishing is exactly what you are doing. And publishing has its consequences!!!!!!

“so what’s good about Facebook? it does allow you to connect to an entire nation of folks who may or may not be

your friends. ”

Written By: al reUchelreaL eye oPener!


Quick eats

ruFus riBsWhen Rufus Allen began eyeing a spot for his barbeque stand last year, he was told by fellow “barbeque guys” that the parking lot near a produce stand was not going to work. But since opening last August, Rufus says he sells out of food nearly every night.

Rufus Ribs, as the barbeque truck on Highway 60 is known, offers Southern smoked ribs, chicken, pulled pork, sides of greens, mac and cheese, corn bread, baked beans, and quite a bit more.

Rufus and his wife, Brenda Allen, were mainstays of the barbeque scene in Palm Beach County before relocating to Lake Wales. And for a while, the couple traveled to competitions. But now, Allen says it’s best to keep still.

Brenda Allen says, “We’re just trying to make a living, not win awards.”

By 6:15 on a Friday evening, Rufus has sold his last slab of ribs to a mother and her two kids on their way home.

“The key is, you got to have good food,” Rufus says.

Rufus Ribs, near 1318 Highway 60, Lake Wales, FL 33853, 561-932-8206, Thursday-Saturday 7am-7pm

BuBBa’s dinerAnother newcomer to the Lake Wales food scene is Bubba’s Diner. Bubba’s Diner, located within the CITGO gas-station at the intersection of Scenic Highway and Burns Avenue, has been serving food since opening nine months ago.

Most days, Eric Chavez arrives at the diner at 4 a.m. to begin smoking meats. Pulled pork, whole chickens, and Kansas City style ribs are cooked on a smoker outside.

“I love those ribs,” Chavez says. “They fall right off the bone, and I love that.”

Owner Jim Hays, who has owned other food enterprises and gas-stations throughout the county, uses his family recipes at Bubba’s Diner.

The inside menu includes fried chicken, deli sandwiches, pizza, and hamburgers. To accompany the barbeque, different vegetables of the day—sometimes fried okra, corn, green beans, or stewed vegetables—are available on a rotating basis.

“We normally won’t have the same vegetable repeatedly,” Chavez says. “We try to get creative.”

Bubba’s also serves breakfast, and Chavez emphasizes that it is cooked-to-order.

Although take-out and phone orders are popular, dining inside is an option. A mix of tables and booths line the wall of windows facing Burns Avenue.

Bubba’s Diner, 600 North Scenic Highway, Lake Wales, FL 33853, 863-679-3399

La BotanaThe Ruiz family has been serving authentic Mexican food from within their combination grocery store and restaurant, La Botana, for the past six years.

The menu includes a range of full entrees (Ricos Platillos Mexicanos), to soups (caldos), Mexican-style sandwiches called tortas, burritos, and a wide variety of tacos.

The tacos at La Botana are served simply, which speaks to the quality of the corn tortillas and the meats. The customer chooses a meat—steak, marinated pork, chorizo, chicken, and more—which is then served with only cilantro and diced onion, and a wedge of lime. A unique green hot-sauce is served on the side.

The grocery portion of La Botana is stocked with staples of Mexican produce, including tomatillos used for making salsa verde. Meat

selections are available, including chorizo. And queso fresco—the crumbly fresh cheese perfect for topping tacos, can also be found here.

Jarritos, Mexican sodas made from a variety of fruits including tamarind, are sold here, as well as an impressive selection of hot sauces, dried chilies, and other spices.

Both dine-in and take-out are available at La Botana.

La Botana, 2415 Highway 60, Lake Wales, FL 33898, 863-679-3335

dining & entertainment » dining ProFiLe

rUFUS riBS561-932-82061318 hiGhWay 60lake WaleS, Fl 33853, thUrSDay-SatUrDay 7am-7Pm

BUBBa’S Diner863-679-3399600 north Scenic hiGhWaylake WaleS, Fl 33853

la Botana863-679-33352415 hiGhWay 60lake WaleS, Fl 33898

3 reStaUrantS in lake WaleS

3 restaurants in Lake WaLes Written By: anDreW moore

ruFus and Brenda aLLen recentLy reLocated their BarBecue oPeration From Boynton Beach to Lake WaLes

Photo by Andrew Moore

eric chavez sLoWLy smokes riBs over hickory, oak and sugar maPLe hardWood For six hours

Photo by Andrew Moore

dining oPtions in Lake WaLes are groWing more and more varied. From BarBeque trucks to Fried chicken to taquerias— Focus magazine takes a quick Look at three great PLaces to

graB a Bite WhiLe on-the-go.


winter havencaLendaroF events

entertainment » event caLendar

if you have an upcoming event and would like us to add it to our calendar of events please email the information to: editorial@fl oydpublications.com

tues., march 01, 2011» Bok in Bloom9:00amBok Tower GardensBok in Bloom! — Th rough March Camellias in Bloom—through mid-March Azaleas in Bloom—mid-February through mid-March During March and April, enjoy the scent of orange blossoms as you wind along the entrance road. Enjoy hundreds of other varieties of fl owering plants as peak season continues through spring. www.boktowergardens.org; 863-676-1408

weD., march 02, 2011» Focus on Education Breakfast - “Building Success � rough Early Childhood Education”7:30am - 9:00amState Farm Cafeteria on Cypress Gardens BoulevardSpeakers will be Dr. Eileen Holden of Polk State College; Nat West, retired from Winter Haven Hospital; Dr. Sherry Nickels, Superintendent of Polk Schools; and Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd. Our presenters will bring unique perspectives on how building a solid, positive, educational foundation and character early in children’s lives can be carried forward into their adulthood and the community at large.

thurs., march 03, 2011» Entertaining Styles - A Tablescape Event10:00am-7:00pm4200 Country Club RoadProceeds from the event will benefi t: Downtown Winter Haven Streetscape Beautifi cation Projects and the Library Garden, FFGC Youth Camp Wekiva Scholarships and Habitat for Humanity LandscapesTickets are available in Downtown Winter Haven at La Vita Dolce, Party Rentals, and Red Geranium; in Lake Alfred at Th e Barn and Stable. For tickets or more information you may call 863-324-3798.

fri., march 04, 2011» Second Annual Spay-ghetti Dinner5:30pm - 8:00pm1991 Overlook DriveTickets are $7 for adults and $4 for children aged 10 and under. For more information please call

HSPC at 863-324-5227 or stop by the Humane Society to purchase your tickets at 555 Sage Road in Winter Haven. Tickets can be purchased at the door. Carry outs also available.

sat., march 05, 2011» March for Meals Walk-A-� on8:00am - 1:00pm620 6th Street NWTh is is a two-mile walk. For more information or for pledge sheets call 863-299-1616.

thurs., march 10, 2011» Speaker/Social: “Winner’s Play Book for ‘THE GAME’”5:30pm - 7:00pmChamber’s AuditoriumTh is engaging, enlightening, educational workshop will help you prepare to move up the corporate ladder or get in THE GAME! Participants will fi nd out how to be a #1 draft pick, sit the bench or be traded. Come and learn about the unwritten rules and survival tactics to be a successful executive in the fi eld of your choice. Admission details: $5 for WHYPG members and $10 for nonmembers, guests, and future members. Light fi nger foods, soft drinks, beer and wine will be on hand. Please RSVP at www.WinterHavenYPG.com; click on Events. Or send an email to Andrea@winterhavenfl .com.

fri., march 11, 2011» Champagne & Shamrocks6:30pm - 10:00pmMain Street Winter HavenChampagne & Shamrocks is Winter Haven’s favorite night of music, food and bubbly. While enjoying the social time and Silent Auction, guests will enjoy delicious dinner, tempting dessert and free fl owing champagne in a beautiful and elegant setting. All of this provides a wonderful backdrop for the highlight of the evening, a grand performance by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. For tickets contact the Symphony Guild of Winter Haven at 863-299-2672.

sat., march 12, 2011» 18th Annual Shamrock, Walk & Run1:00pm - 6:00pmWinter Haven Public LibraryJoin us for a fun-fi lled family day in beautiful downtown Winter Haven with a 5K race, 2-mile walk and 1-mile “Jog with your dog”! For more information visit the library in downtown Winter Haven or the event website at www.rockwalkrun.com. See you there!

thurs., march 17, 2011» St. Patrick’s Day Carillon Concerts1:00pm - 3:00pmBok Tower GardensStroll the blooming gardens and enjoy the many shades of green as the Singing Tower carillon performs Irish favorites from the Emerald Isle at 1 and 3 p.m. Included with general admission. www.boktowergardens.org; 863-676-1408

» Moonlight Carillon Concert7:30pm - 9:00pmBok Tower GardensUnder the light of the full moon, romance will be in the air during the Friday night Moonlight Concert. It’s a unique opportunity to bring a date to visit the Gardens after normal operating hours for half-price admission and have a light dinner at the Blue Palmetto Café. www.boktowergardens.org 863.676.1408

» Lake Wales Boy Scouts FOS Fundraising Dinner6:30pm - 9:00pm1201 Boy Scouts Rd

sat., march 19, 2011» Central Park Art Festival 9:00am - 5:00pmPark in downtown Winter HavenCome stroll the park in downtown Winter Haven on March 19 and 20, 2011, from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. when more than 100 fi ne art exhibitors will exhibit their handmade wares. Also on hand will be an international food court, beer and wine on Saturday, local entertainment, children’s hands-on tent, and the Polk County Schools Young Artist Tent. Battle of the Bands will take place Saturday night.

fri., march 25, 2011» Wine Festival of Central Florida6:30pm - 9:30pmLake Mirror PromenadeTickets purchased prior to the event are $50 and will be available online February 1 at www.afi -fl .org by clicking on the Donate Now tab. You also may purchase tickets at the AFI Administrative Offi ces. Tickets purchased at the event will be $55.

sat., march 26, 2011» Family Fit Fest9:00amCentral Park

Isn’t it beautiful?

Let’s keep it that way!

Leather Campaign Chair$480

Bombay Box$490


Ford Trimotor$500






