FOCUS Brandon

WWW.MYFOCUSTV.COM

branDon EDiTion

Summer Fun In the Community

KeyStone Recovery Offers Hope for Addictions

Dining Reveiw Copper Bell Cafe

Joseph E. Parrish Attorney at Law

VOLUME 3 ISSUE 11 JULY 2010

Pearle Vision (next to Chili’s)

Pearle Vision (in front of Kohls)

Call 1-800-YES-EYES a location 3017forTown Centernear Dr you.

Or visit us online at pearlevision.com, where Lakeland, Fl 33803 you can also schedule your next eye exam.*

1933 W. Brandon Blvd Brandon, Fl 33511 813-681-8880 863-413-0200 *Eye exams available by the Independent Doctors of Optometry at or next to doctor of optometry Dr Stephanie Kirkland, independentPearle Dr Richard Miller, indepentent doctor of optometry Vision in most states. Doctors in some states are employed by Pearle Vision.

Dr Mona Kardani, independent doctor of optometry 863-688-4001 813-685-0415

Starting at

NOW, OUR

FREE GIFTBEST LENSES FREE UPGRADES $

139

With the purchase of a complete pair of prescription eyeglasses, Free eyeglass cleaning kit Valid only at participating locations in receive the Susquehanna one ofValley. the following premium upgrades free.

No purchase necessary

•Non glare, anti reflective coating •Transition, photochromatic tint •Thin lens (polycarbonate or 1.67)

Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Cannot be combined with ant other discount or offer. See associate for details. Expires August 12, 2010

LEATHER & VINYL REPAIR/RESTORE Carpet/Vinyl Flooring Seating • Paint

AUTOS

Residential & Commercial

RESTAURANTS

Repair? Like New in Minutes Cost-effective - Dramatic Results

RV’S

Before

Boats • Yachts • RV’s • Golf Carts

After

OFFICES

Autos (including Vintage & Luxury) • Exterior Paint Touch-Up Graphics • Windshields • Pinstriping Consoles/Dashboards • Office Interiors/Reception Areas Restaurants (including seating) Vinyl Siding

BOATS & YACHTS

Call Sean or Tom

813-681-4002 877-433-1333 (Toll Free)

ABOUT OUR CENTER We, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists, urge that children have a regular dental program established by age two. Not only is it important to your child’s physical well-being, but proper dental care impacts self-image and social development from an early age.

OUR PROGRAMS INCLUDE: Preventive Care • Restorations • Growth & Development White Fillings • Sealants & Bondings • Teeth Alignment Advanced Functional Appliances • Orthodontics

8:30 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. Monday – Friday • Evening Hours by Appt.

24-hr. Emergency Care • Military Provider ACCEPTING MOST DENTAL INSURENCE PROGRAMS PLANT CITY – 659-3407 • SOUTH TAMPA – 254-8457

www.pediatricdentalcenter.net

VINYL SIDING

CONTENTS

VOLUME3 ISSUE 11 - JULY 2010

FAMILY OF COMMUNITY MAGAZINES publisHEr Mike Floyd

LAKELAND EDITION

officE managEr Dede Floyd copY EDiTor Lynne Warren aDVErTising DirEcTor Brent Simmons

Gene

Conrod Director of Lakeland Linder Regional

ONTHECOVER

JUNE 2010

greater winter haven eDitiOn

BRANDON EDITION

JOSEPH E. PARRISH

Summer Fun In the Community

Photo by Anthony Towers Photography

KeyStone Recovery Offers Hope for Addictions

Dining Reveiw Copper Bell Cafe

Joseph E. Parrish

salEs Sophia Hyde Sheryl Vitelli Holly Far mer proDucTion Anthony Sassano Tony Cartagena DisTribuTion Doug McGee Belva DeVane pHoTograpHErs Suzanne Gallagher Billy Friend Lori Blaser

Attorney at Law

july 2010

LAKE COUNTY EDITION

south taMpa eDition

7

Blaine Vermeulen

FOCUS

Plant City Lakeland Brandon Winter Haven Lake County South Tampa

14 18

FOCUSTV

MYFOCUSTV.COM Local Community Stories New Episode Every Wednesday

OWN YOUR OWN FOCUS MAGAZINE

Licensed territories are available.

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

BRANDON EDITION

Bill

Logan

WFLA Anchor / Reporter

Also in this issue:

First Annual FOCUS on you Makeover Good Eats Delivered to your door by the Takeout Butler

The June cover of FOCUS magazine listed Bill Logan incorrectly as the WFLA Anchor/Reporter. It should have read Bill Logan, Anchor/Reporter for ABC Action News.

We apologize for the error.

24

26

LoCaL

The weather’s hot, and so are the activities going on in Brandon. From ‘The Hottest Party Ever’ hosted by the Brandon Chamber of Commerce’s YP Brandon and Leadership Brandon Alumni, to the annual Fourth of July Parade – featuring a new route this year - Focus brings you the scoop on what’s happening in Brandon.

FEaturE

Once again, summer has arrived and kids and adults alike are looking for ways to spend these dog days. Check out our coverage of activities for all ages in this month’s feature.

SPotLight intErViEW

The Parrish Law Firm, P.A. represents plaintiffs from throughout Florida in personal injury or damage recovery litigation. Key to its success is the fact that the group does not pursue frivolous cases. Joe Parrish is serious about his ethics, his work, and his belief in the American justice system. He is also a wonderful family man who feels strongly about being a part of and serving the Brandon community.

buSinESS ProFiLE

Diana and Robert Keone’s Keystone Recovery Counseling & Treatment Center provides specialized services for addictions treatment through a specifically trained experienced staff in a confidential, respectful atmosphere.

Keystone Recovery offers help, hope, and healing for those battling destructive behaviors.

dining ProFiLE

The Copper Bell Café is one of those places where once you go, you want to return again and again. It’s a cozy place, tucked away on Parsons Avenue.

Friendly service and quality, homemade food make this little café an easygoing-kind-of-place you don’t want to miss.

18 - derek Maul 19 - al ruechel 26 - Event Calendar

sTaff WriTErs Cheryl Johnston Brian West Joe Bowles Derek Maul Brittany Cer ny Krystel Knowles Currie Dickerson Sophia Hyde Lynne Warren conTribuTors Al Ruechel Bruce Rodwell Gil Gott Sherrie Mueller Jo-An Lusk Nate Davis Natalie Sweet Felix Haynes EDiTorial inTErns Raven Leverett

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

published by:

floyd publications, Inc.

101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd.

Plant City, FL 33563 Phone 813.707.8783 • Fax 813.764.0990

Just what the doctor ordered.

A new, dedicated orthopedic wing.

We take the stress out of orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation.

Thanks to our exciting, new renovations, patients can now recover faster and more comfortably in their own specialized, private room. Our 10 luxury rooms are designed large enough to accommodate physical therapy equipment, so therapists can come to the patients. Rooms include flat screen TVs and access to an internet and media café – with computers and ortho-ergonomic furniture. Even fold-out sleeper sofas allow family members to stay over night. It’s the perfect healing environment in every way.

New Orthopedic Wing 301 N. Alexander St. Plant City, FL 33563 southfloridabaptist.com For a referral to one of our orthopedic surgeons, call 813-443-2018

L letter from

THE publisher

Howard Barnes, President QGS Development Lithia, Florida

“Sunshine State has been a great banking partner.

I can’t imagine banking anywhere else.”

Howard Barnes is president of QGS Development in Lithia: “We started as a grassing contractor with one tractor in 1982. Today we’re an industry leader in golf course construction and site development.

We handle projects not only in Florida, but also in Texas, New York, the Caribbean ... even Australia. We’ve come a long way but couldn’t have done it without the help of our local banking partner Sunshine State. I can’t imagine banking anywhere else.”

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

L ooking back on our childhoods, I’m sure everyone has a unique story of how his or her summers were spent. Just a quick survey around our staff and I heard a different answer from everyone. One said he mostly spent the whole time playing video games, another said his family traveled across the country and he’s seen almost every state. Then there was the athlete who spent most of the time training for baseball season. There were many stories of playing with siblings and getting into trouble. I just remember being outside all time, whether it was riding bikes or climbing trees.

However, no one shared a story of any community activities they were plugged into. Often times, I think parents are unaware of the many opportunities available in the community for children to get involved. For that reason, our feature this month highlights a plethora of programs in the Brandon community offered to enrich the lives of children and families.

This article is a great resource for every family to find activities for this summer.

And, don’t be quick to assume they’re all out of your budget because many of them are free or minimal cost.

There is one summer program that wasn’t mentioned but I recently heard about it and was so blown away I have to share it with you. Down Boyette Road is the Tech PlayZone. This facility offers summer programs that include topics in physics, chemistry, computers, oceanography, astronomy, biology, engineering and many others where students learn how to build and program things from roller coasters to video games. If you’ve never heard of this amazing resource to the Brandon community, be sure to check out their website at techplayzone.com Other activities featured include every sort of athletics you can imagine from swim to volleyball to softball. There are certainly ways to keep your children away from the couch watching TV or playing video games for the whole summer.

Brandon is such a dynamic community with a wealth of opportunities for its residents. When your children grow up and look back on how their summers were spent, hopefully they’ll have incredible stories to share. My desire is the FOCUS was able to help plug you into your community in ways you didn’t know were available. Enjoy the summertime with your children!

“Banking on a First Name Basis”

Plant City - Main Office, 102 W. Baker St., 752-6193 Walden Woods, 2400 Redman Parkway, 754-1844 Brandon, 420 W. Brandon Blvd., 689-1271 Riverview, 7459 Highway 301 S., 677-7102 Zephyrhills, 36450 Eiland Boulevard, 782-9593

6

july 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Mike Floyd Publisher

Year Round Landscape Management Property Prope ty Clean Up • Tractor Work Tree P Pruning uning • Mowing • Triming • Edging Free Month of Service

To All New Lawn Maintance Customers

Commercial & Residential

Call us today for a free estimate

813-967-6859 Owner Operated • Licensed and Insured • CRC# 1328952

$100

Visit my website to join my mailing list and email me your name, email address and mention Focus Magazine GIFT CERTIFICATE and you will receive a

Breakfast • Fresh Salad • Soups • Deli Sandwiches • Subs • Gyros • Greek Salad • Burgers and much more

Grand Opening 526 Oakfield Drive Br andon, Fl 33511

813-654-3388

Call ahead or fax in your order to save time!

25% off

Buy One Lunch

party of two or more,

dine in only, excluding specials exp 7/31/2010

lunch

dine in only, excluding specials

exp 7/31/2010

get 1/2 off the second

your tle, have pecial s u b d n ea that s No hustl done for ’s to o h p family card... hristmas C r o t if g

buy one breakfast

get 1/2 off the second

dine in only, excluding specials

exp 7/31/2010

Anthony Towers

Owner/Photographer

Phone 813-205-4856

www.majesticmemoriesphoto.com FoCuS MagazinE brandon july 2010

7

local focus

The Hottest Party Ever S t o r y by J o h n R o ss

YP Brandon and Leadership Brandon Alumni teamed up last Friday to co-host the “Hottest Party Ever: Volume III,” a professional networking event held at Beef O’ Brady’s in Tampa.

Both organizations are sponsored by the Brandon Chamber of Commerce and are community leadership development programs.

The mission and purpose of Leadership Brandon, as stated on the event flyer: · Identify community leaders of diverse backgrounds · Develop their potential and nurture their desire to accept civic responsibility and roles of leadership in the community · Expose the participant to the challenges and opportunities that currently face the Greater Brandon area · Open a dialogue between emerging and current business and community leaders · Familiarize the participants with some of the processes and programs available for individual involvement in the community.

From the website of YP Brandon, “YP Brandon will inspire young professionals to Lead by example, Grow by association, and Give back to the Brandon community.”

What of the event? Business people and organizational leaders turned out.

It seems the businessmen and women in our city are particularly ambitious and creative.

Shannon Smith, the entrepreneur of Hippocampus Marketing (www. hippocampus-marketing.com) is an expert in The Art of Marketing as

his website names it. This was evident in the frequency in which he was approached. The reason: Everyone likes to watch TV, and this man had a working TV on his chest. “It’s a good conversation starter,” he said, hinting at the speed at which I approached him. “I help businesses create videos for these things.” Had he been passing out remote controls, (and if I had a business to market) I might have hired him on the spot. His company also helps customers use a marketing website for their own businesses.

Rasmussen College was present at the event, showcasing their scholastic uniqueness as “an online school with campus support” said Steven Goodfriend, the campus’s representative. Rasmussen has been around for 110 years and they specialize in producing alumni in the fields of technology, business, and health. They intend to place a campus nearby in the near future (www. rasmussen.edu).

Rob Silver, a man campaigning for Brandon’s Honorary Mayor, (www. robsilverformayor.com) is gaining momentum in the community for helping to assist local charities. The Brandon Foundation, Haley House Fund inc., and the Brandon Outreach Clinic are among the benefactors of his support.

YP Brandon and Leadership Brandon Alumni are always looking for more members. For information visit www.leadershipbrandon.com and www.ypbrandon.com. Contact Laura L. Simpson, Vice President of Leadership Brandon, or Crystal Colegrove, Manager at 813-689-1221.

Members of Leadership Brandon. Photo by Tony Cartagena

Salads • Pastas • Steak • Chicken • Seafood

Family Owned Since 1975

Willies

It Don’t Get No Fresher!

Mango Pie Home of the

8

july 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

All You Can Eat Specials Tues., Weds., Thurs.

Choice of Catfish Filets, Clam Strips, Mahi Mahi, Shrimp & White Fish The Place For Seafood Mix & Match - Dine In Only • Every Meal Cooked Family Owned for 35 Years!

To Order Mon-Thurs 4:30 P.M.-9:00 P.M. • Several Dishes Straight Fri & Sat 4:30 P.M.-9:30 P.M. from New Orleans 1912 Main Street, Valrico • Seafood Baskets 813-571-7630 $17.49 1-1/2lbs. from $8.49

Jumbo

Crab Legs

local focus

11th Annual LBA Casino Night S t o r y by L a u r a L . E s t es

The Brandon Chamber of Commerce announces that Leadership Brandon Alumni will be hosting the 11th Annual Casino Night on Friday, August 6, 2010. The event will be held at Center Place Fine Arts and Civic Association located at 619 Vonderburg Drive, Suite B between 6:30 – 11:00pm. Tickets are on sale now or can be purchased at the door for what promises to be an evening filled with fun, food and networking.

The $30 ticket provides admission into a night of casino style fun including $2500 in Casino Fun Money, drink coupon, door prizes, a silent auction, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment. Casino events include Blackjack, craps, roulette, slot machines and there will be a Texas Hold’em Tournament where players can get in on the action with a $20 buy in. There are opportunities for sponsorship of this event which

will be a fundraiser for the greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce Leadership Brandon Program and other Alumni community enrichment programs. This group is dedicated to identifying community leaders and developing leadership potential in our community with a focus on diversity; they fund the Leadership Brandon Scholarships with this Casino Night event.

The group seeks to impact the Greater Brandon area by focusing on the challenges and opportunities in our community. For the 11th Annual Casino Night, the LBA is offering six levels of sponsorship ranging from $200 – $1,000. The highest level is the High Roller Sponsor that comes with six VIP entry tickets to the event and includes company name and logo displayed in all marketing and advertising of the event and featured in follow up articles, mailers and media releases, the option of

displaying company banner, a half page ad in the event program and the company name featured on the Brandon Chamber Leadership website. Sponsors for the event include Chick-fil-A @ Lake Brandon Village, Tampa Electric Company, GrillSmith, Flooring America, Sunshine State Federal Savings & Loan Association, and the Brandon News and Tribune/ The Tampa Tribune.

For more information or to register, visit The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce’s website at www.brandonchamber.com or contact Crystal Colegrove at (813) 689-1221, ext. 8824 or ccolegrove@ brandonchamber.com. This promises to be an exciting evening of casino fun for an important purpose. Come out and support the Leadership Brandon Alumni and give the wheel of luck a spin.

Doug Gilmore plays the roulette table.

Photos courtesy of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce

Chris and Dawn Hulting, Owners SportClips, and Vegas Show girl. Photos courtesy of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce

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

Care For All Ages CHIROPRACTIC:

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

ACUPUNCTURE:

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

1802 W. Baker Street.

Plant City, Florida.

752-6001 Monday -Friday 9 am-1 pm; 3 pm-6 pm Back Row: Judy Markley A.P., Dr. Guy Markley, Dr. Robyn Markley-McGarry, Front Row: Julie Pippin C.A., Donna Pettit C.A., Vicki Hutcheson C.A.

www.markleychiropractic.com FOCUS Magazine Brandon july 2010

9

local focus

New Twists to An Old Theme Brandon 4th of July Parade S t o r y by M E g a n b r a g L i n

For more than 50 years, there has been a group of people that are committed to the non-profit organizations of the Brandon area. In the early years this group was formed of only non-profit organization members and leaders. However, as times and needs have changed over the years, the current Community Roundtable group is comprised of a variety of people and businesses.

One thing does remain unchanged, the wish to serve the non-profit community organizations of Brandon.

Over the years the Roundtable has sponsored and coordinated the Annual Brandon 4th of July parade.

Many smiling faces have been created in years past. The parade route has changed for this year and George May, President of the Community Roundtable, hopes that families will like the new route. The parade is set to begin at the intersection of Brandon Parkway and Lakewood.

The 1.4 mile route will continue north on Lakewood, which becomes Providence, until it reaches Oakfield where it will then turn back east, ending down Oakfield behind Burlington Coat Factory. Another new twist is that the time is now set for 6:30 pm. The hope is that it will be cooler and people enjoying the parade can then continue on to the other area fi reworks displays.

Other changes taking effect this year are intended to upgrade the safety of the parade. In years past, there may have been a hand full of deputies. However, due to the parade falling under the auspice of Homeland Security, there will now be around 65 deputies patrolling the event. There will also be EMS on site to assist with any medical needs.

The parade units, about 85, will be allowed to distribute candy, beads, and other give-aways. However, each float must have several people to provide a security barrier on either side between the floats and onlookers.

Also, in the past few years there

10

july 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

has been a rise in the number of cars entered as units. Th is year that number has been reduced, to allow for more floats and other, more traditional types of units. May told me that he feels that with a “new energy” and “make it better attitude”, the parade will again be as prestigious as it once was. Mary Boor, President Elect, also sat down with us. She says, “We hope to bring the Brandon community the traditional values of what the 4th of July is all about: the independence that our forefathers declared in 1776.”

Parade Marshall, Ms. Susan Saunders, is the Alice B. Thompkins service award recipient. She was chosen for this honor for her dedication to volunteerism and the community. Among the others honored in the Defenders of Freedom section of the parade are active members, reserves and veterans of all branches of the military. One of these even involves the veterans of a WWII submarine.

The units of the parade are sure to give their best, as they will be vying for top honors in several judging categories. Best marching unit, decorated vehicle, amateur float, professional float and youth cheerleaders, are just a few of the judged categories. Besides the changes to safety, the new route, and the slight increase in entry fees, judges will also be using criteria in part based on the prestigious Macy’s parade. The overall goal of this year’s parade is a more professional looking event.

4th of July Parade July 4th 6:30 pm Sponsored by Community Roundtable (813)661-4350

Photo by: R.M. Scott

Brandon Networking Group We exchange business information, ideas, and support to one another on a weekly basis. Networking to help each other grow our businesses. We’re energetic group always working for each other.

The Parrish Law Firm Focus Magazine Take Out Butler (Food Delivery Service) Send Out Cards Kingdom Realty MBS Print Services Principal Financial Group The Boss (Virtual Admin Asst.)

PakMail Florida Embroidery

Jaclyn’s Spa (Full Service Salon) Majestic Memories Photography Living Orderly M&I Bank Minute Man Press eBridge Solutions Boudin Consulting Pandora’s Box (Private Investigator) America’s Office Source Mentalmorphasis (Life Changing Assistance)

SEE OUR OFFERS BELOW!

FISHHAWK ......................FISHHAWK 16707 FISHHAWK BLVD. ...654-7991

20% OFF

ENTIRE ORDER

APOLLO BEACH ................................Apollo Beach 220 Apollo Beach Blvd ...............................645-1499 BLOOMINGDALE ..... Royal Oaks Shopping Center 3248 Lithia-Pinecrest Rd ........................... 654-8113 BLOOMINGDALE ...... Just S. of Bloomingdale Ave. 3513 Bell Shoals Rd. .................................645-9292 BRANDON ............................. Lake Brandon Village 11393 Causeway Blvd. ..............................643-6944

Everyone welcome!

Wednesday mornings at 8 AM

Della’s Delectables 608 Oakfield Drive Brandon, Fl 33511

For more information on how you can be a part of such an amazing group, contact Jaclyn at 310-2785

FISHHAWK ...............................................Fishhawk 16707 Fishhawk Blvd. ...............................654-7991 RIVERVIEW .......................................Goolsby Point 11697 Boyette Rd. .....................................672-1832 VALRICO ...........................................Valrico Square 1985 E. Brandon Blvd. ...............................654-2324 VALRICO .......................... Shoppes Brandon Farms 2511 E Brandon Blvd. ................................643-4825 RIVERVIEW .............................River Springs Center 13414 Boyette Rd. .....................................657-8497

Shirts & Dry Cleaning Valid on incoming orders only. No exceptions.

Not valid with other coupons or promotions.

Expires: 8-1-10 FM

20% OFF

ENTIRE ORDER

Shirts & Dry Cleaning Valid on incoming orders only. No exceptions.

Not valid with other coupons or promotions.

FM Expires:8-1-10

20% OFF

ENTIRE ORDER

Shirts & Dry Cleaning Valid on incoming orders only. No exceptions.

Not valid with other coupons or promotions.

Expires: 8-1-10 FM

20% OFF

Wedding Gowns, Comforters, Blankets, Alterations, Drapes

Minimum Order $5. Valid on incoming orders only.

No exceptions. Not valid with other coupons or promotions FM Expires: 8-1-10

Family Medical Specialists OF FlOrida

Michael Paul Gimness, M.d.

Mónica rivera, M.d.

BOard CertiFied in FaMily MediCine

BOard CertiFied in FaMily MediCine

Accepting new patients of all ages!

Accepting new patients of all ages!

813-567-5679

813-651-9396

1703 thonotosassa road Suite a Plant City, Fl 33563

16144 Churchview drive Building a, Suite 109 lithia, Fl 33547

www.fmsflorida.com

www.fmsflorida.com

FOCUS Magazine Brandon july 2010

11

n u F r e mmCommunity Sinuthe

Story by Laura Estes

Summer is a time when everyone’s thoughts turn to fun. It may have been years since moms and dads sat watching the clock on the last day of school dreaming of the long months ahead, but something about June makes the heart yearn for the freedom and fun of a ten-year-old’s summer. There is plenty to do to keep your kids – and yourself - busy this summer; whether your mind is turning to self improvement, leisure, recreation or sports, Brandon has something to offer.

YMCA Brandon, located at 3097 S. Kingsway Road, offers something for everyone. For kids, there are summer camps running through August 20. They offer full and half day camps with trained, qualified staff designed to help kids grow in body, mind and spirit. Full day programs include Adaptive Recreation Camp, Sports Camp, X-treme Teen Camp, Leaders in Training and Gymnastics Camp. Half day programs include Pre-school Gymnastics, Drama Camp, Arts & Crafts Camp, Fitness Fun Camp, Water Sports Camp, Talent Camp and Odyssey Camp. But, there is more than just camp at the Brandon Y; they offer classes in everything from Gymnastics to Aquatics. There are also special programs for teens like Leader’s Club, which helps teens develop leadership skills and character through social events and service projects, and Teen Wellness, a program that focuses on health and wellness. For the whole family, there are plenty of fitness classes as well as specialty classes for new moms including Stroller Boot Camp and Tummy Blast. They also offer adult Gymnastics, Tae Kwon Do and Basketball. There are special events for seniors including personal exercise programs and monthly luncheons. The next one is scheduled for July 8; sign up and bring a covered dish to share with

new friends. While parents and League and Christian Martial Arts grandparents are enjoying the exercise for all ages from five to adult and facilities at the Brandon Y, there are senior classes on Tuesdays and great options for kids: Play Center for Fridays. They even host a Table children six weeks to seven years old Top Games afternoon the second and KidZone, which offers planned, and fourth Monday of each month. supervised activities for kids ages five For additional information, go to to twelve. For more information, go to fbcbrandon.org and look for the tab ymcabrandon.com. labeled The MAC. Brandon Sport and Aquatic Center, For specialized training in located at 405 Beverly Blvd, hosts cheerleading and tumbling, Florida a camp that boasts swimming, Allstars, located at 514 Corner Drive, diving, martial arts, gymnastics, is a great option. They offer strong, soccer, tennis, Wii tournaments, competitive programs for cheerleaders extreme volleyball and art. Camps and dancers as well as classes and are available in full or half day and camps. Their programs focus on BSAC offers weekly specialty camps positive attitudes, family values and focusing in the areas of swimming, high expectations. They diving, tennis, martial arts, soccer have a and art. For more information, go to mybsac.org.

The MAC is a new fitness option in town offering many opportunities for children and adults. Itis located at First Baptist Church of Brandon, 216 North Parsons Ave. They will be offering Volleyball Camp for eleven to sixteen year olds July 12 – 16 and two different Basketball Camps for seven to fourteen year olds July 26 -30 and August 2 – 6.

They have options for all ages with a Teen Basketball League, Open Ladies Volleyball, Bowling League, Men’s Noontime Donny Scolaro and Frank Basketball, Ladies Ambrosino instruct players Doubles Tennis during fielding practice.

Photo by Michelle Scolaro

Special Needs Program which is the only one in the bay area. For more information, go to www. floridaallstars.com.

For kids interested in baseball and softball, there is a great opportunity to increase skills and self confidence at Saladino Baseball Academy.

The owners and camp directors are Tony Saladino and Donny Scolara who believe in building a child’s confidence through sports. Scolaro says, this is a place for the kid who thinks he or she isn’t the greatest player on the field. We teach

the skills that make them good community, Center Place has much players and they want to come back to offer this summer. Throughout the because it’s fun.” Camp runs the full summer, Center Place has sessions ten weeks of summer and campers in painting, drawing, clay modeling, can attend full-time or part-time photography scrapbooking, hip hop hours. Their qualified instructors dance. Kids can learn about Free work in area schools as Hand Drawing or design their own baseball and softball superheroes. In coaches. Visit www. saladinobaseballacademy. com or call (813)684UCAN with any questions.

Brandon has plenty to offer besides fitness opportunities. One program that is dedicated to helping families be happier, healthier and stronger is the Family Support and Resource Centers located at 1277 Kingsway Road. This is truly a community center as they Two year old Mia Cummings urge guests takes the Little Amigos Spanish class at the Family Support and Resource to attend the Recycled Art Center. Photo by Andrea Cummings their monthly Fantasy Sculpture class, kids Advisory will use a variety of everyday Council Meeting to make their items to create their own works of wishes for programming known… art. In Space Art, they will create they even provide child care. All of different types of space related their programs and classes are offered projects. In Comic Book Storyboard free of charge. They have Child Poster, students will create their Development Classes and Playgroups, own storyboards for original stories Center Driven Activities, Educational and characters developed in the and Self Help Programs, Support class using pencil, pen and color.

Groups and even Family Counseling.

Center Place is also branching out There are infant playgroups and into space with their Academy of infant massage classes; their Little Future Space Explorers offering Amigos class introduces children and classes in July and August on Rocket caregivers to basic Spanish; they offer Science, Space Travel, Space arts and crafts for children from two Technology and Living to twelve years old, story time and in Space. To register or dance class which introduces three learn more, go to www. to eight year old to different types of centerplacebrandon.org or dance. For adults, there is Spanish, call 685-8888.

Sewing, Floral Workshop, computer For another type of Classes (basic and intermediate), art, Music Showcase, English classes for speakers of at 402 Oakfield Drive, other languages and tax assistance. has theatre and music Tutoring is also available for students programs for all ages and in FCAT as well as homework all levels of advancement assistance for reading, language in July and August. Music and math. Many programs require Showcase is a member registration, so check into Family of The Florida Academy Support and Resource Centers at of Performing Arts. www.familysupporthc.org.

Programs include musical A staple of the Brandon art theatre from beginners to

advanced and all types of music from orchestra to rock. They also offer individual lessons and instrument rental. For their camps, classes and programs, to participate or watch, contact Music Showcase at www. musicshowcaseonline.com.

For readers and learners, those who want to keep their minds active over the summer, Brandon Regional Library, at 619 Vonderburg Drive, offers a variety of events and classes. Of course, you can check out books, music and movies year round. They also have a comprehensive program for getting little ones involved in reading with Baby Time and Toddler Time scheduled each week.

There are book discussion groups and computer courses for adults, as well as a do-ityourself divorce and custody seminar on July 6 at 7:00 pm.

On the Brandon Regional Library Calendar, like in their bookshelves, there is something for everyone. For additional information go to www.hcplc.org and navigate to the Brandon Regional site or call 273-3652.

For family fun on a Friday night, check out the Fishhawk Ranch Friday Night Concert Series at 7:00 pm.

They have partnered with Mosaic and Feeding America Tampa Bay to present “Concerts for a Cause.”

Admission to the concert at Park Square is a canned food item that goes

directly to the local food bank. In exchange, concert-goers receive raffle tickets for that evening. There are also vendors in the park who donate 25% of their proceeds each Friday night to Feeding America. In July, the concerts are scheduled to be: July 2 – Wiley Fox, Country Music July 9 – Crystal Blue, Rock July 16 – Bus Stop, R&B, Contemporary, Top Forty, Motown July 23 – The Go Daddies, Rock and Dance July 30 – Yesterdayze, Sixties For more information, and to see the scheduled performers for August, visit www.fishhawkconnect.com.

While you’re there, be sure to read about the farmer’s market coming on July 11.

For more free musical entertainment, mark the first Thursday of each month on your calendar.

Plaza Bella, located on Bloomingdale Avenue just east of Bell Shoals Road, is hosting an arts event between 5:00 and 8:00pm. There will be live music and local artists will display and sell their work. Best of all, Plaza Bella businesses, like The Green Boutique, Orange and Salon Essence, will be offering specials and having drawings.

With so many opportunities in our community, there is no reason to while away these long summer days.

Kids and adults alike should give in to their desires to learn something new, try something new or pursue their favorite hobbies.

Taylor Martin and Kelsey Martin take time out of each busy summer day to relax with good books.

Photo by Chip Martin

JULY 9

AUGUST 7

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

JULY 10

AUGUST 13 COVER TO COVER

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

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

AUGUST 14 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

JULY 16 COVER TO COVER

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

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

JULY 17 & 23 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

AUGUST 21 RALPH ALLOCCO

& SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

AUGUST 21

JULY 24 LOLA & THE SAINTS PLUS P.J. LEARY & THE LAS VEGAS SOUNDS

FEATURING SYLVESTER POTTS

The Red Rose Ballroom will rock-out on this night when The Contours take the stage! Their #1 Hit “Do You Love Me” was featured in the hit film “Dirty Dancing” with Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey. P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds will perform before and after The Contours. It’s a ‘don’t miss event’ for all Motown music lovers! Reserve your space early, this show will sell quickly!

MERRITT

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

AUGUST 28 RALPH ALLOCCO

JULY 31

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

AUGUST 6 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

& SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

SEPTEMBER 3 RALPH ALLOCCO

& SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

SHOW RESERVATIONS

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

P. J. Leary & the Las Vegas Sounds, also featuring special guests, Cover to Cover and Ken Brady (Lead Singer of The Casinos), featuring the 1967 hit “Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye” before and after the show in the Red Rose Dining Room.

SEPTEMBER 10

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

SEPTEMBER 11 &17 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

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

SEPTEMBER 18 & 24

THE CONTOURS

Doo Wop At Its Best! Relive the 50s & 60s as though it was yesterday – “Forever in Love,” Just Over the Brooklyn Bridge.”

JULY 30 RICHIE

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

SEPTEMBER 4

P.J. LEARY & THE LAS VEGAS SOUNDS, WITH COVER TO COVER AND KEN BRADY

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

SEPTEMBER 25 GEORGE GALFO’S MYSTICS

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

OCTOBER 1 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

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

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

COMING SOON - OCTOBER 23

NO COVER CHARGE for shows in the 5-Star Red Rose Dining Room with the purchase of dinner.

Show Guests - inquire about our special room rates when staying overnight after a show!

WITH LEGENDARY GRAMMY WINNERS

TEL: 813.752.3141

SOUL MUSIC NIGHT THE DELFONICS AND ARTHUR “SUGAR BEAR” AIKEN

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

Mrs. Evelyn Madonia - Owner/General Manager

WWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COM

The Parrish Law Firm, P.A Story by Cheryl Johnston Photos courtesy of Anthony Towers Photography

File this name for future reference: Joseph E. Parrish, Attorneyat-Law. File it under “I” for “Injury Law with Integrity” in the event you require legal services, because above all, integrity drives one of the finest lawyers in the country – a man driven to serve his clients with excellence.

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

For those truly injured, the firm specializes in the following areas of practice, among others: Wrongful Death, Negligence (vehicular or premises), Product Liability, Defamation, and Business Disputes. If you or a loved one has suffered serious injury or wrongful death due to negligent or strictly liable actions of another, The Parrish Law Firm, P.A. is dedicated to holding the responsible party accountable.

Accountability can involve those causing an auto or boating accident or manufacturers and distributors of defective products put into the stream of commerce.

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

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

When tests revealed language acquisition aptitude, Parrish entered training to learn Korean. Thankful for the experience, he recalls, “The Army was a godsend for me because I realized I wasn’t ready for school.

Although I was always confident in my analytical abilities and common sense, I didn’t realize how little I knew until I was surrounded by brainy language school roommates.”

The military experience made Parrish keenly aware he had much to learn. He describes it as “a time of incredible friendships along an avenue of personal growth to maturity.” He believes every young American should spend at least two years learning to appreciate our country and serving “the best nation in the world,” and acknowledges that, “With that comes great responsibility.”

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

Command in Panama.

When he returned stateside, he began attending the pre-med program at the University of Arizona. Recognized for his academic accomplishments, he became the only undergraduate on a team selected to conduct genetic sequencing of the virus itself to determine why most HIV positive mothers

did not transfer HIV to their child during pregnancy.

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

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

At age 28, Parrish again returned to school,

completing a double major in Business Administration and Human Resource Management. With encouragement from his wife, he decided it was time to locate and write to his birth father. When they met, Parrish was amazed to discover their similarities: both are athletic, musically talented (voice and trumpet), and hold very similar political views.

He was also intrigued to learn his father’s dad had been the lead patent attorney for General Electric and most of the siblings were attorneys as well. Today, they have a solid relationship and speak on a regular basis.

The next accomplishment for Parrish was a law degree with honors from Indiana University-Indianapolis, where he served as president of the Phi Alpha Delta legal fraternity, student body representative-at-large,

a National Regional Finals trial team member, and editor of the Indiana Law Review.

Following graduation, he joined one of Florida’s largest corporate defense firms, Fowler White in Tampa, where he met some great attorneys and gleaned much wisdom. One very special mentor was Frank Gassler, who Parrish describes as “intense, but supportive of those who weren’t intimidated by him. He challenged me continuously.”

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

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

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

He cherishes family time and says, “I can’t imagine being married to anyone else, as she is perfect for me and I really enjoy being a father. When friends ask me, I tell them, ‘Marriage and children will change your life, but it is so worth it.’ ” He’s helped or coached his sons’ basketball, flag football, and soccer teams.

He and Tristan also attend weekly guitar lessons. Parrish knows how important parental involvement is through his own childhood disappointments when family members could not attend musical or sporting events.

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

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

As for this great community, Parrish believes everyone should contribute to its

betterment. He meets each Wednesday with the Brandon Networking Group at 8:00 a.m. at Della’s on Oakfield and enjoys “the familylike atmosphere of the loving people in that group.” He is a member of both the Brandon and Riverview Chamber of Commerce and is active in the Brandon and Hillsborough County Bar Associations. Additionally, he is an Eagle Sponsor for the Florida Justice Association

and member of the American Association of Justice.

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

The best attorneys also know their clients very well, a necessity in fully presenting the case and representing the plaintiffs’ specific interests. In a recent, wrongful death claim, Parrish felt it necessary to live for several days with the grieving family in order to experience how they coped with the loss of their child.

What he learned became an invaluable part of the family’s story presented in trial and resulted in a multi-million dollar verdict in their favor.

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

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

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

extra Derek maul

FREE

Alignment

with purchase of 4 tires expiration 8/30/2010

Brandon’s Jeweler of Choice since 1954

Voted Best of Br andon for 14 Consecutive Years

•diamond jewelry •14kt Gold Earrings •Pulsar & Seiko Watches •14kt Gold Chains & Br acelets •Pearls *Selected Colored Stone Jewelry *excludes prior discounts & Simon G.

WE BUY SILVER &GOLD

664 Oakfield Drive, Br andon

corner of Kings Avenue & Oakfield Drive in “Atlantic Village”

689-8124

18

july 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Mostly, it’s about believing S u b m i t t e d by De r e k M a u l

Graduation ceremonies are always meaningful occasions. College and high school are the “standards”, but it’s not unheard of to receive an engraved invitation – RSVP – to watch your favorite four-year-old walk across the stage in a cap and gown.

Early summer sees commencement exercises of all sorts, but this year’s most meaningful - for me - had to have been the hour I spent with a group of 8th Grade students at Turkey Creek Middle School. They had successfully completed the Exceptional Student Education (ESE) program and were more than ready for high school and the rest of their lives.

The annual event, emceed by former assistant principal Scott Anderson, is a banquet of celebration and encouragement.

Ten 8th grade students made their way across the stage in front of a room full with parents, teachers, students, administrators and guests. Principal Dennis Mayo kicked off the ceremony with a welcome, and by the time the graduates headed for the buffet they were weighed down with more awards than some could carry.

So why all the fuss? Why make so much noise about the simple transition into high school? Why not just hand over report cards and start getting ready for the next batch?

The answer addresses the whole point of ESE. We have a remarkable federal initiative that mandates a “free and appropriate” education (public law 94-142, 1975, re-imagined as IDEA in 1990), and it’s a plan designed to make sure all children have access to first-rate schooling – regardless.

However, such a venture only works when the effort goes both ways. The point of ESE is not to make school easy; the

point is to make school possible.

Forgive me, but I must repeat the thought. It’s a powerful idea that I don’t want us to gloss over. The point of exceptional student education – and this applies to pretty much any public program – is not to make school easy; the point is to make school possible.

I taught ESE for almost two decades, and it was shocking to observe how many parents believed it was our job to make school easy for their kids! But that’s not it at all. What good ESE teachers do is everything in their power to make success an option for those students and families prepared to do their part and work as a team.

And, let me tell you, Turkey Creek has some good ESE teachers. That’s the reason ten 8th grade graduates walked across the stage having actually achieved something.

That’s what exceptional student education is all about.

The event’s sponsor was kind enough to invite me to speak, so I told the students about my son, Andrew, who really didn’t enjoy school that much when he was their age. “But today he’s doing a job that he loves, committed to helping people, travelling all over the world, and making enough money to live the kind of life he wants,” I said. “And I’m going to tell you how.”

I dove in while I had their attention.

“The first thing Andrew did was simply hang in there. It’s not enough to say that ‘50% of success is just showing up.’ It turns out that 100% of achievement depends on hanging around to the end. So I want to encourage you to stay in school.

“The other thing was that Andrew believed. People may tell you ‘seeing is believing’. But my son realized there are things that you’re never going to see until you first believe.”

ESE is about making good use of all the abilities at a students’ disposal. It’s about teachers, parents, and students working together to take collective responsibility and to give everyone a fighting chance.

And, mostly, it’s about believing.

2010 Strawberry Queen Natalie Burgin drove the point home at the end of her talk.

“You can do it!” she said with a huge smile, and the kind of enthusiasm only festival queens can pull off with any credibility.

And she really meant it – you could tell.

You can reach Derek Maul at Derekmaul@Gmail.com, or visit www.Derekmaul.net

extra Al ruechel Nutritionists try to break chocolate milk “fix”!

S u b m i t t e d by a l r u ec h el

Well it’s about time. Some nutritionists are finally defending chocolate milk even as state education leaders are trying to get rid of it. They want to remove it from school menus because they say it contains too much sugar which is why all of our kids are so fat. Okay, that’s a paraphrase.

The same goes for strawberry or other flavored milks. Sure, they make up 70 percent of all the milk sales in schools but what do kids know anyway. Instead, state higher ups would like kids to choose pure fruit juices or white milk in the blue cartons. They say helping, I say forcing kids to make the right choices will make for healthier students.

I love it when educators are so immersed in what goes into our mouths they forget to see the forest for the trees… or is it the trees for the forest? Never mind.

No one can argue that chocolate and strawberry milk have a lot more calories than regular old white milk. After all, the syrups which are used to make the flavored milks are mostly corn syrup or other sweetens. An 8-ounce carton of chocolate milk has about 26 grams of sugar verses white milk with only 12 grams.

There’s even a dude in Colorado

who says kids could gain as much as three pounds per year from chocolate milk consumption alone.

One more factoid from my friends at the St. Pete Times: school sales account for more than half of all flavored milk sold in the U.S. So, back to some of those pesky nutritionists who don’t agree with the state high and “muckity mucks”. They say kids will just end up drinking more juices that contain even many more calories.

They say if kids stop drinking milk their diets will lack the necessary calcium and potassium for bone development. Did I mention the farmers are really ticked because they say milk sales will drop, they will need more subsidies, the stars will fall from the heavens and the Cubs may even win the World Series?

Now, my take on the matter.

After raising four kids I can tell you two things for sure. One, not all kids are fat. My kids have skinny genes in them and I don’t mean the kind you put on. Heck, my sons drank chocolate milk like it was water and they still barely weighed 170 pounds even though they are both 6 feet 4 inches tall.

It was a battle getting them to eat broccoli. My wife was very creative in getting them to eat alfalpha sprouts by calling them space weeds. And she got them to slug down a teaspoon of cod liver oil each day without the promise of a new car when they reached 16 years of ago.

Forget this obesity stuff for just a second. The truth about white milk verses chocolate is simple.

White milk in those blue cartons tastes funny. Go ahead, ask any kid. How many times have you opened one of them up only to take a big swig of sour milk? It only happens once!!!!!

Sheryl Vitelli at 813-918-1612 or

MAGAZINE

For more information on how you can become part of the Focus tradition please contact

svitelli@floydpublications.com I look forward to watching your business grow through Focus Magazine http://www.thefocusmagazine.com/ salesreps/sherylvitelli.html

Hibatchi Grill

Sushi Bar

Open weekdays at 11 AM for lunch Saturday open at 4 PM Sunday open at 3 PM

13420 Boyette Road, Riverview, FL 33569 Corner of Bell Shoals and Fishhawk Blvd

813-689-5544

Tokyo Japanese Steak House FOCUS Magazine Brandon july 2010

19

OIL CHANGE, FILTER & LUBE

FREE TIRE ROTATION

with Oil Change

$15.95 Plus Tax cash or check only

TOTAL CAR CARE

-Brake Inspection Repair & Service.

-Belts.

-Radiator & Hoses. *A.C. Repair.

-Computerized Diagnositics & Tune-Ups. -Scheduled Maintenance.

* Plus-$1.50 disposal charge By appointment only.

Most cars, light trucks & vans WITH COUPON ONLY*EXP. 07/31/2010

BEAT THE

HEAT

A/C Check $9.95*

Let your house

freon and parts extra By appt. only expires 7-31-2010

SPARKLE

WE ARE A PROUD & ACTIVE MEMBER OF THESE ORGANIZATIONS:

this holiday

•Suncoast Automotive Trade Assoc. • AAA Approved Auto Repair Center. *National Tire Dealers. • U.S. Chamber of Commerce • NAPA approved Auto Repair Center

BRANDON TIRE & AUTO SERVICE

milit

Serving

YOU since 1957

we o

ar y

f f er

dis c

oun

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter

2514 Hwy 60 East-Valrico • 685 - 6344

Store Hours: Mon-Fri 7 AM-5:30 PM Sat 7 AM-4:30 PM Florida Motor Vehicle Repair #MV00754

We Accept

A Mother’s Touch Your Residential Cleaning Service

Courtesy Shuttle Available Ask About Our 90 Days Same as Cash Instant Credit with Approved Credit (WAC)

t

Residential cleaning at it’s best!

No Job too big or small For a free cleaning quote contact Michelle at

813-601-1062

www.brandon.mechanicnet.com • brandontire@hotmail.com

Get the most out of your clothes by bringing them to Myers Cleaners, your Sanitone Certified Master Drycleaner. Our unique Sanitone process can help clothes last longer, and keep them looking like new. That’s why top designers trust our process to keep fine fabrics looking fabulous. Stop in and discover the difference today.

Free Pick-up & Delivery

20

july 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

813-315-9850 522 Oakfield Dr Brandon, FL 33511

IMPORTANT HEARING FACTS Hearing is a gift that enables us to engage in the world of sound around us. It offers us both comfort (the soothing sound of a mother’s lullaby) and protection (a fire alarm), while enabling us to learn, to share ideas and to enjoy pleasures like music, nature and conversations with friends and loved ones.

Damage to the inner ear from loud noise, aging, exposure to ototoxic drugs and certain medical conditions can reduce our ability to hear - often happening so slowly

and subtly that others may notice the change in our hearing before we do.

It is estimated that more than 30 million Americans have a hearing loss (approximately 1 out of 10 people). Hearing loss affects people of all ages. In fact 65 percent of people with hearing loss are younger than 65! One in six baby boomers have a hearing problem. One in fourteen Generation Xers already have hearing loss. At least 1.4 million children have hearing problems (source: Better Hearing Institute).

Dr. Lisa E. Tanner

IT IS RECOMMENDED that everyone’s hearing be screened at least every 10 years through age 50 and at 3-year intervals thereafter; sooner if they have a conditions that place them at risk for hearing impairment.

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

To learn more about Dr. Tanner and Advanced Diagnotics and Hearing Solutions, please visit us online at www.adhs-brandon.com

FOCUS Magazine Brandon july 2010

21

business Profile

Keystone Recovery Offers Hope for Addictions S t o r y by C h e r y l J o h n s to n

If you or someone you know struggles with addiction, Keystone Recovery can help.

Keystone Recovery Counseling & Treatment Center provides specialized services for addictions treatment through a specifically trained experienced staff in a confidential, respectful atmosphere.

In the early 90’s, Diana Keone offered hope to Tampa homeless women with children who had turned to prostitution and drugs for money to feed their families. Because of a deep desire to help those women imprisoned for crimes, she began to work in the prison’s drug program, where she was able to touch many lives.

Diana and Robert Keone’s close-knit and communityservice-oriented Valrico family, with six sons and four daughters, share a strong faith in God. Diana earned her B.A. degree from Brigham Young University and previously served 17 years with the Hillsborough County Correctional Institution, teaching in their Drug Program. Now, she’ll teach in Florida’s state prison’s drug programs. Diana also sits on the NAB (National Accountability Board) with the Brandon Chamber of Commerce.

Robert Keone earned his BA/MBA at Brigham Young University, Hawaii and is 22

july 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

completing a Masters in Marriage/Family Counseling at Walden University. He is a professional photographer, videographer, graphic designer, and private scuba instructor (see www.keone.net). The couple plans to work together in Keystone Recovery.

Keone believes if one person changes their lifestyle and turns to a different way, then the effort is worthwhile. Today when she encounters former addicts, she’s encouraged with hugs and recovery news.

She says, “When I walk away, my heart is so full, it’s indescribable.”

According to a 2008 Department of Health and Human Services national survey, only 2.3 million or 10.8% of the 23.1 million people needing treatment for drug or alcohol use problems received necessary assistance.

Complex problems surround addictions, but Keystone Recovery offers help, hope, and healing for those battling destructive behaviors. Recovery is the “keystone” that holds life together. Without it, everything will fall. Keystone provides professional services to treat underlying wounds that cause addictive compulsions.

Counselors help individuals and families recover from the damaging effects through individual and group counseling and by partnership with the 12-step fellowships.

First and foremost, Keystone

Robert and Diana Keone celebrate their family, their community, and their passion for helping others recover from destructive behavior. Photo by Courtesy of Diana Keone

desires to see clients set free from addiction’s bondage and help hurting families. They also offer an integrated service of spiritual faith, should clients request it. Keone believes as Martin Luther King said, “Faith is taking the first step, even when you don’t see the whole staircase.”

Such was the case of Suzy, living on the street with her three small boys. She moved here from NY, thinking her life would change, that she could leave behind her unhealthy lifestyle. She didn’t realize the problem was inside her and not determined by location. Keone remembers, “When she visited our office, she felt broken and hopeless. Everywhere she turned she was turned away.

We located shelter, then we started working on her drug problems. For ten years now, she’s been drug-free and a productive member of society.

She has returned to NY to be

nearer her family’s support network” and Keone reports, “We hear from her periodically and she lets us know how she It’s never too late, it’s never so bad, it’s never past the point where you can’t begin TODAY to make a change in yourself, in your marriage and in your family.

For a free initial consultation, phone Keystone Recovery at 813-421-5667. Explore www.keystonerecovery.org for additional information on making that healthy change today.

Keystone Recovery 1210 Millennium Parkway Suite 1004 Brandon, FL 33511 www.keystonerecovery.org call for appointment 813-421-5667

Richard Swilley Donnie Johnson Lic EC13002274 Bonded and Insured

ElEctricity is no hobby call: 813.737.9057 FINALLY! Two local guys than can take on your nagging electrical repairs and wire your new home or business at a reasonable price!

“Richard and Donnie look forward to serving your electrical needs. With 75 years of combined experience we can make your home and business safer and leave you with confidence that the job is done correctly.

Give us a call and let us show how we can ease your concerns about your electrical system.

relax,

be pampered, and enjoy

Massage • Hair Nails • Skin Care

Meet our new Hairstylist Amber

$20

spray tanning for first time customers

buy three and get one free

618 Oakfield Drive, Brandon, FL •

813-681-4780 FoCuS MagazinE brandon july 2010

23

entertainment dining profile

“Welcome Home!”

Copper Bell Café

W r i t t e n by M e g a n B r a g l i n

Tucked away in a small strip of businesses, just east of Brandon Hospital on Parsons Avenue, there is little café full of big flavor. Upon entering the Copper Bell Café, guests are warmly welcomed by Chef Steven and manager Kelli. Even the soda delivery man is offered an ice cold beverage to quench his thirst. Frequent diner, Nick Kuzmicz, joins in the welcome, sharing that the Polish Cabbage Rolls are every bit as authentic as those his Polish-Russian mother makes. The fact that the entire home style menu is posted above the front counter, filled with scrumptious choices to sooth one’s palate, immediately tempts the taste buds. Everything from the Copper Breakfast (eggs, home fries, toast and bacon or sausage) to Corned Beef Sliders (corned beef and grilled onions

“Bruschetta”. Photo by Megan Braglin

24

july 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

with spicy mustard) excites the belly.

I met with co-owner Darren Denington to talk about his newest business venture.

Denington is a charming gentleman, who felt the need to open an easygoing place for local patrons to enjoy breakfast or lunch. It all started when he noticed that a new deli had opened on Parsons near his office.

A few days later, Denington stopped by to grab a bite to eat and found that the deli had been closed and put up for sale after only seventeen days in business. A short time later, he and partner Jason Pepe founded the Copper Bell in that very spot. Their recipe for success; cleanliness, friendly service, and homemade food. In fact, they refrain from buying processed, precooked meat. They buy

Owner Darren Denington and Chef Steven Batchelder greet guests with a warm, “Welcome Home!”

Photo by Megan Braglin

large sides of meat and cook it in-house, enabling them to prepare fresh, tender entrees. By the way, Denington knows good restaurant management practices, as he is the Area Director of O’Briens and the owner of a restaurant coaching business and a secret shopping business .

I knew I had made a wise choice in inviting my mom, Dr. Mary Knox, when she was torn between the Classic Rueben and the Polish Cabbage Rolls.

Once settling on the Rueben, Knox was extremely pleased.

“Mmmm… Delicious! That is one of my top favorite Rueben’s. The best part is it was served hot.”

Knox expressed after finishing off the last bite. She wasn’t the only one. I had a delicious variation on Bruschetta. It was served with feta cheese atop a toasted hoagie baguette. The softer take on the baguette was refreshing. The Strawberry Feta Salad is a wonderful choice on a hot summer day. I chose to add slow roasted chicken, which was seasoned to perfection and drizzled with Raspberry Ranch dressing.

In the time we enjoyed the

tastes of the Café, several patrons came and went. Some chose to take their order to go, some called in orders to be delivered, while others chose to eat at one of the cozy wooden high top tables and enjoy some quality time with family and friends. Sherry Archer of Valrico, shared that she comes regularly to try the soup of the day. Archer raves about the Navy Bean Soup, as she tastes the Italian Sausage soup. The town of Brandon agrees, awarding Copper Bell Café with a 2010 Taste of Brandon Award! I was glad to “ring the bell if you loved it”, as we left completely satisfied.

Copper Bell Café 401 S Parsons Ave. Brandon, FL 33511 813-681-DELI (3354) 813-681-3353 Fax Open 7 Days - 8:00 am to 2:30 pm Delivery Available M-F

PLAZA BELLA

east bloomingdale avenue

Summe r is in the air !

18” $11.99

one-topping pizza for

Expires7/30/2010

18”one-topping pizza for

Dress to Impress this summer at

It’s the perfect

$10.95

with the purchase of two beverages.

Dine-In only

time to

visit

1042 Bloomingdale Ave. Valrico, FL 33594

Steak

Seafood Burgers

813.381.3865

Ribs

Get the most BANG for your BUCK!

Happy 4th of July!

Free Checking Accounts No Maintenance Fees

Free Online Banking Includes Quick Books Download

813-662-5635 1020 BLOOMINGDALE AVE, VALRICO, FL

MONDAY-THURSDAY 11-9 FRIDAY-SATURDAY 11-10 SUNDAY 11-9

1016 Bloomingdale Ave, Valrico FL 33596 (located in front of Plaza Bella) 813-657-8989 • www.hillsborobank.com FoCuS MagazinE brandon july 2010

25

entertainment calEnDar new Member orientation gbCC tECo Energy board room

THuRSDAy, july 15TH THuRSDAy, july 1ST

8:00 aM - 9:00 aM brandon bankers Coalition Meeting - gbCC tECo Energy board room

SuNDAy, july 4TH

9 aM until 12 PM CELEbratE aMEriCa! Choir, orchestra, and drama honoring our heroes bell Shoals baptist Church 2012 bell Shoals road, brandon Fl 4:00 PM brandon blast Celebration Westfield Parking Lot near Food Court

TuESDAy, july 6TH

9:30 aM - 11:30 aM; July 6, 7 &13 Working Smarter Workshop Series “business Start up Series”- tECo Energy board room

WEDNESDAy, july 7TH

8:00 aM - 9:00 aM ambassadors Meeting tECo Energy board room 9:00 aM - 10:00 aM 26

july 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

real Estate Coalition Meeting -tECo Energy board room

TuESDAy, july, 13TH

8:00 aM Small business development Committee Meeting tECo Energy board room 11:45 aM - 1:00 PM yP Straight up Lunch at California Pizza kitchen 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM July business after hours hosted by Serenity Meadows - 6919 Providence rd.

WEDNESDAy, july 14TH 8:00 aM - 9:00 aM Military affairs Council Meeting - tECo Energy board room

11:30 aM - 1:00 PM Six degrees networking Jaymer-Que Southern bbQ & Ms. Cyndi’s Corner Cafe & Catering Company 3:45 PM - 6:15 PM neighborhood accountability board - brandon Chamber of Commerce

9:30 aM - 11:00 aM Minority & Women owned business Seminar - tECo Energy board room 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Casino task Force Meeting -tECo Energy board room

TuESDAy, july 20TH

8:00 aM - 9:00 aM First year Member networking - gbCC tECo Energy board room

TuESDAy, july 20TH,

21st,

27th & 28th 9:30 aM -12:30 PM Working Smarter Workshop Series “business Plan i-iV”

WEDNESDAy, july 21ST

11:00 aM ribbon Cutting: brandon Lighting, inc.

1:00 PM - 1:30 PM Congressman adam Putnam outreach Program gbCC - Lobby

THuRSDAy, july 22ND 11:45 aM

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Fishhawk Summer Family Fest - the Palmetto Club

MONDAy, july 26TH

9:00 aM brandon broncos 1st annual bazaar -JC hanley Park 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM golf tournament task Force -tECo Energy board room

TuESDAy, july 27TH

8:00 aM Coffe Club -Costco Wholesale

WEDNESDAy, july 28TH

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Winthdrop/bloomindale area Council Meeting - the bridges 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Leadership brandon alumni Committee - gbCC tECo Energy board room

THuRSDAy, july 29TH

5:30 PM - 7:30 PM Elite Member reception -grillSmith restaurant

HOPEWELL Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens

R

U N 2

KAYAKING

CAMPING OR

www.hopewellfuneralhome.com 6005 County Rd. 39 South 1/2 Mile South of County Road 60 813.737.3128

Assisted Living in YOUR Home!

Homemaker &

C

HeLping HAnds cAring HeArts inc. cy Agen ion n pa om

For more information on how you can become part of the Focus tradition please contact

Transportation Light Housekeeping

svitelli@floydpublications.com

& Much More!

Office 813.737.6706

Leonard@helpinghandcaringhearts.com

helpingufl.com

Locally Owned & Operated Lic # 230092

FISHING?

MAGAZINE

Sheryl Vitelli at 813-918-1612 or

Cooking

F LY

w w w. f l i

ntcreekoutfitters.com

RiveRview 13421 Fishhawk Blvd. • Lithia, FL 33547

I look forward to watching your business grow through Focus Magazine http://www.thefocusmagazine.com/ salesreps/sherylvitelli.html

813-681-1888 OCALA

4414 SW College Rd., Ste. 910 • Ocala, FL 34474

352-237-5325 FoCuS MagazinE brandon july 2010

27

Serving Brandon area families since 1960.

A long tradition of caring compassionate service.

STOWERS funeral home 401 West Brandon Blvd. Brandon, Fl 33511 • 813-689-1211

Herb S. Popple Funeral Director, General Manager 28

july 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Today, we continue our long and proud history of community service as members of the Dignity Memorial national network of funeral, cremation and cemetery service providers.

Stowers Funeral Home, as a Dignity provider, specialize in offering exclusive Added Value BeneďŹ ts designed to provide a higher level of funeral care before, during, and after the service, all backed by a 100% Service Guarantee.