FOCUS Brandon 04-10

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VOLUME 4 ISSUE 10 • JUNE 2011 FOCUSBRANDON.COM

BRANDON EDITION

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FOCUS Magazine brandon june 2011

3

Table of Contents 8

8-10

local

Volume 4 Issue 10 • June 2011

focusbrandon.com

on the cover

FREE

VOLUME 4 ISSUE

10 • JUNE 2011

FOCUSBRANDO

9

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With graduations, National Day of Prayer and a gala for the American Cancer Society, it’s been a busy month for Focus.

Here’s hoping your summer is filled with celebrations, too.

14-15

feature

Be encouraged by the wisdom of three Class of 2011 high school valedictorians: Michael Calzadilla of Brandon, Ryan Gibson of Newsome, and Steven Whitaker of Bloomingdale. Thanks to great schools, supportive families, dedicated educators, and this caring community our future is in great hands.

Dr. derek busciglio

Don't

Photographer: Mike Floyd

text & drive!

MEET DR. BUSCIGLIO AND FIND OUT WHY

HE CARES

ALL NEW FOCUSbrandon.com

16-17

spotlight interview

Meet Dr. Derek Busciglio - a man with at least two missions.

One is to grow the Busciglio Orthodontics practice started by his father in 1972 and the second is to reach teens with an impacting message about the dangers of texting and driving through an online challenge. Even adults can give it a try!

18

featured business

Moon Law Group, a General Practice firm formed by experienced attorneys, Paul M. Tabio and Mark R. Moon in 2009, specializes in helping individuals, small businesses and Veterans receive affordable, attentive, professional legal services in areas such as Family Law, Bankruptcy, Business Law, Personal Injury, Real Estate, Estate Planning and Criminal Law.

22

dining profile

Caution! Do not read this restaurant review if you are hungry. You will want to jump in the car and head to Anthony’s Coal Fire Pizza immediately to try this truly unique restaurant. The 800-degree coal oven makes all the difference in the world.

Licensing Opportunity

Licensed territories are available. We are looking to expand the family and are looking for motivated individuals to join our award winning team.

If you are interested in owning your own Focus Magazine contact Mike Floyd at 813.707.8783 ext 26.

N.COM

BRANDON EDITIO N

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www.keelandcurleywinery.com FOCUS Magazine brandon june 2011

5

Letter From The Publisher WELCOMING NEW PATIENTS A NEW YEAR BRINGS NEW STAFF TO BETTER ACCOMMODATE YOUR NEEDS

WINNER OF THE 2011 MOST SUCCESSFUL DOCTORS AWARDS

Michael Calzadilla has a story that I think we can all learn from. Flip over a few pages and read our interviews this month with the valedictorians of three local high schools. I’m certain you’ll be quite impressed with not only their intelligence and work ethic, but also with their determination to secure a solid future.

Perhaps the reason Michael’s story is so relatable is because he seems to completely defy what many would expect of a characteristic valedictorian. Mike shares that due to apathy and his fear of “looking like a nerd” in his first year of high school, his grades were poor. The next year he just floated through.

However, in his junior year something clicked for him, and he determined to prove to himself that he could do better.

Simply put, he applied himself.

He pushed himself as hard as he could, on top of athletics, philanthropy and clubs. Three semesters later he was satisfied when he had achieved his personal goal of surpassing a 6.0 GPA. Surprisingly, neither he nor anyone else realized to what degree he had accomplished his goal. From poor grades and very far behind that first year, Michael had climbed to the #1 rank in his senior class at Brandon High School. Make sure you read the story of how he found out.

AFFORDABLE SELF PAY RATES

Typically, students who have finished at the top started many years before with that particular goal in mind and then worked all four years competing to see which could be the greatest over-achiever. Michael competed only with himself, and ultimately, the diligence now reaps the rewards.

I recently read a blog post by one of my favorite authors, Michael Hyatt, in which he said, “Never compare your beginning to someone else’s middle.” We all have goals we’re trying to achieve. It’s so easy to look at someone else’s path and use it as a standard of measurement, but it’s important to realize that our true competition lies only within. Are we willing to push ourselves to our greatest limit? As many like Michael Calzadilla have learned, the path to success will carve its own way when someone is willing to give their all.

The Busciglio family is also another great example of self-determined success. Read this month’s interview with Dr. Busciglio and learn about multiple generations of hard-workers who raised their own personal standards of success through dedication and sacrifice. Presently, Dr. Busciglio is focused on a campaign against texting and driving because of his experiences with the teenagers he knows through his dental practice. Check out www.donttextanddrivegame. com to learn more.

This community is filled with many who “give their all.” Each month we are thankful for the opportunity to share your lives and your stories.

Mike Floyd - Publisher mike@floydpublications.com

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

Publisher Mike Floyd mike@floydpublications.com

Floyd Publications, Inc. 702 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd.

Plant City, FL 33563

Office Manager Dede Floyd dede@floydpublications.com

Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990

Copy Editor Cheryl Johnston cjohnston@floydpublications.com

www.focusbrandon.com Credit Manager Angel Carter acarter@floydpublications.com Standards of accuracy: The goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-warming stories that are accurate from the start. Being human, however, we sometimes make mistakes. Please forgive us.

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

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

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

Sales Sophia Hyde | Holly Farmer Julie Hasting | Erik Butler | Linda Simmons Brent Simmons | Bernadette Casey Production Anthony Sassano Tony Cartagena FOCUS TV Shana Johnson Distribution Byron Spradlin Belva DeVane Photographers Billy Friend Lori Blaser | Jennifer Darnell Staff Writers Cheryl Johnston Brian West | Joe Bowles Derek Maul | Kelleigh Klein Heather Davis | Laura Estes | Dan Conrod | Kristi Linbaugh | Heather Davis Megan Braglin | Brittany Cerny Contributors Al Ruechel | Gil Gott Bruce Rodwell | Jo-An Lusk | Nate Davis

Adventure five Parasailing

Focus Takes Flight!

Written By: shana johnson

At Focus, we set out to try 11 adventur es in 2011. So far, our trips have inclu ded a bouncy trip to Boing Jump Center, a speedy day of go kart racing at Ambassador Racing School in Wimauma, an exciting angling session of off shore fishing with Lyons Charters and a tacti cal day of pain at Action Paintball in Winter Haven. After all that excitement, we were all ready for a little relaxation. So we grabbed our shades, sunscreen and swim suits and set sail... Parasail that is!

For our 5th adventure, the Focus team headed to Anna Maria Island and met up with YOLO Parasail for a day of fun in the sun. With their acronym motto, “You Only Live Onc e”, we knew it would be an unforgettable trip.

The drive to Anna Maria is a pleasant interstate drive, less than 90 minutes from Plant City. Although parasailing is a popular activity at near ly all beautiful Florida beaches, what sets it apart at Anna Maria is the breathtaking views of sparkling blue waters and bright white sandy shor es, colors that will make you feel as though you’ve traveled to the Caribbean. However, no passport is needed for travel to this Floridian paradise in our backyard.

YOLO owner Ryan Davis never take s his dream job for granted. Sure, he makes a living soaking up the sunshine, but what he finds mos t fulfilling is the people. “Everyone is always happy, smiling, ready to have a great time.”

The Focus Magazine fun-seekers are no different. We have been jumping, racing, fishing and shooting.

Now we can cross another action verb off our bucket list: “flying.” Mike and DeDe Floyd, Julie Hasting, Angel Carter, Tony Cartagen a and I, Shana Johnson, took flight with the seagulls as a smiley face yellow parachute hoisted us in tand em pairs 500 feet in the air. Noticeab ly missing from the group was the king of kung fu and office IT guru, Anthony Sassano, who convenie ntly fell ill the morning of the high flying outing.

Despite how it may seem, parasailin g is a delightfully tranquil activity. Ryan Davis explained that many of YOLO’s visitors have a com mon misconception. “Most people do not expect parasailing to be so relaxing. They think it will be a stom ach-dropping adrenaline rush like a roller coaster when actually, you feel weightless. You feel like you’r e flying like a bird.”

Angel and I were the first pair to take flight. Having done it before, I knew what to expect. Angel, on the other hand, had no clue. She had to psyche herself into it, so shor tly after boarding the boat she was eager to get up in the air befo re her resolve acquiescd into second thoughts. It didn’t take long before she was all smiles, as she gracefully soared into the sky. She said the ride was smooth and calming - not what she expected. Surp risingly, her favorite part was the mos t thrilling... being lowered down to dip her feet in the water.

Julie Hasting also flew with a newbie.

Having parasailed many times before, this seasoned pro helped to calm graphic designer Tony during the flight by singing. “I loved experienc ing it with Sweet T. He was a little anxious, but he overcame his fear!”

As it was for Angel, the dip was also the highlight for DeDe Floyd. As Julie , Angel, Tony and I shouted, “Take them down. Soak them !” the boat captains followed orders and let Mike and DeDe dip a little more than just their feet. “I love d it!” said Mike. “If I didn’t have that head camera on I would have wanted to be in the water even more!”

The head camera that caused a downpla y of DeDe’s dip is our innovative devi ce to capture amazing aerial views for the FOCUSTV vide o of the trip. Along with leg harnesses and life jackets, it is the perfect parasailing accessory. After chec king out our bird’s-eye shots online at focusplantcity.com/ category/focustv, grab your camera and capture your own memories at YOL O Parasail of Anna Maria Island! After all, “You Only Live Onc e!”

Go Online To Check Out THe full

Video at

www.focusbrandon.com

FOCUS Magazine brandon june 2011

7

Local » Focus

The red carpet guests were not put off by the Regent’s “stalker”-razzi. photo by Amanda Molinaro

The stakes are always high in the fight against cancer. photo by Amanda Molinaro

The American Cancer Society Presents An Evening with The Stars Gala T Written By: Amanda Molinaro

he local “stars” of the Tampa Bay area convened upon the ever-elegant Regent at Winthrop on May 21 to attend an annual fundraising gala held for the American Cancer Society. The gala’s theme, “An Evening with the Stars,” was a perfect fit with lights, camera, and action for the philanthropists of the Tampa Bay area!

The Mabel and Ellsworth Simmons Charitable Foundation, a local nonprofit organization that donates to causes all across Hillsborough County, presented the event, along with other notable sponsors such as Bright House Networks and the Tampa Tribune.

At the door, the Regent offered complimentary valet service to welcome guests to the lap of luxury. Arriving guests were ambushed by the “paparazzi” (really

8

june 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

a professional photographer hired by the Regent) as they sauntered along the red carpet in their old Hollywood style regalia.

As quick as camera flashes, the Regent wait staff refreshed guests with fine champagne offered from sliver trays. In the atrium, the room was abuzz with lively mingling among the local Relay for Life team representatives.

In the ballroom, the tables were set for a five-course meal prepared by Southern Gourmet Catering. The aroma of chicken breast chardonnay and charbroiled sirloin permeated the air outside of the Regent. Two fully stocked liquor and wine bars flanked the walls surrounding the dining tables and tuxedoed servers weaved around chairs carrying trays of hors d’oeuvres.

On the south end of the Regent, a jazz ensemble rambled relaxed melodies while guests browsed the silent auction tables for

the perfect packages and baskets to bid on.

Businesses across the area donated items such as wine tasting packages, jewelry, spa gift baskets, and yoga classes.

ACS provides to help cancer sufferers. The organization also uses money raised from events like these to fund cancer research institutions such as Moffitt Cancer Center.

The main attraction had to be the casino tables set up so attendees could test their luck at the blackjack, hold ‘em, craps, and roulette tables. Professional dealers were quick to the turn and the rake while guests put all their chips on the table. The best feature of the gala’s casino is that no one could lose! All the “winnings” were donated back to the American Cancer Society.

While the ACS organizes similar gala fundraisers all over the nation, this event will hopefully become one of Brandon’s annual traditions. According to representative Jessica Hong, the ACS hopes to have raised around $50,000 to donate in the fight against cancer.

After the bids had been placed and all the chips had been cashed in, the true star of the night, Rafaela Taft, made a speech to the crowd about her summer camp adventures with the American Cancer Society’s R.O.C.K. camp. R.O.C.K. (Reaching Out to Cancer Kids) camp is one of many enrichment and support programs that

If you are interested in learning more about the American Cancer Society, their fundraising events, what they provide for cancer patients, or their other philanthropic endeavors, visit www.cancer.org. To book an event at the Regent at Winthrop, check in at www.experiencetheregent.com or call (813) 571-2494.

Local » Focus Prayer was offered for our government leaders, our economy, our military, and our community. Then prayers were sent up for our marriages, our families, our children, and our schools.

Prayer was also presented for our nation’s impact on the world and for our church’s. and for each person’s personal revival.

Afterwards, the crowd cheered because each was grateful for a public place to pray! After all, the Christian community begins with prayer.

The evening closed with attendees singing “God Bless America.” When our nation comes together in prayer He truly will.

Praise band begins the night with music.

brandon celebrates National Day of Prayer S Written By: Diana Brink

trangers, friends, and families gathered together for one purpose: the National Day of Prayer. Numerous denominations was represented: Baptist, Methodist, Lutheran, Catholic…all under one roof worshiping the Lord simultaneously.

On May 5, 2011 at the Winthrop Barn the community of Brandon celebrated the National day of Prayer. The evening began with praise music and a welcome by Dr. Stephen Rummage, pastor of Bell Shoal Baptist Church.

“We are brothers of Christ. Our faith in Him binds us together,” Dr. Rummage shared.

State Senator Rhonda Storms and U.S. Senator Bill Nelson each sent their blessing.

A representative from Congressman Gus Bilirakis was there, along with school board representative, Stacy White.

President Obama this year officially declared May 5, 2011 as a National Day of Prayer.

Different pastors from the Brandon Community came together for this night, each taking a part in the different prayer needs of our nation. Since everyone was there as an ambassador of Christ, each divided into small prayer groups to hold hands or just pray together.

Christians gather to pray for America.

FOCUS Magazine brandon june 2011

9

Personal Care for All

Local » Focus

• MATERNITY CARE • GYN CARE • LAPAROSCOPIC SPECIALISTS • WEIGHT MANAGEMENT • 3D/4D ULTRASOUND

Graduation Day FISH Graduation “T

STEPHEN ZWEIBACH, M.D.

(WINNER OF 2011 MOST SUCCESSFUL DOCTOR AWARD IN THE SPECIALTY MEDICAL FIELD)

LUISA F. VANEGAS, M.D. NATASHA J. CHAMPION, M.D. CATHERINE W. SCHAAF, ARNP, CNM

Written By: Diana Brink

oday we celebrate the graduation of twenty-three students all representing twenty-three different schools,” Dave Walton, Chairman of FISH (Families Instructing Students at Home) shared as graduation began.

On May 21, 2011 at Bell Shoals Baptist Church, 23 homeschoolers celebrated the end of their high school learning with a graduation ceremony. Some of these students have received scholarships from Bright Futures, for sports, or for artistic

10

june 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

talent. These students have had the privilege of a learning environment catered to their God-given talents.

“I took homeschool for granted and now I look back at how truly blessed I was,” shared senior Victoria “Tori” Kern. “Thanks for the countless memories and for teaching me about Jesus.”

The parents each presented their son or daughter with his or her diploma. Each parent then gave a special message to their

813-571-2777 WWW.ZWOBGYN.COM

LOCATIONS IN BRANDON & RIVERVIEW graduate as a picture slide show played in the background. This made for a very personal graduation.

The guest speaker Burnard Scott, Next Generation Pastor at The Crossing Church, shared with each graduate that they need to lead lives by the X-factor. Extraordinary is how God means for us to live. Excellent by separating ourselves from everybody else

by living by the three H’s: humility, honesty, and honor.

The commencement closed with the moving of the tassel and the tossing of graduation caps. Also with the hope of what the future holds for these bright faithful students.

Brandon Chamber Of Commerce » Focus

BRANDON CHAMBEr Business briefing BRANDON BUSINESS EXPO & “TASTE OF BRANDON™” Congratulations to the following winners Best Taste: Winner: Copper Bell Café Runner Up: Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill Best Dessert: Winner: Jaymer-Que BBQ & Ms. Cyndi’s Corner Café Runner Up: GrillSmith Best Booth: Winner: The St. Petersburg Times / Brandon & Southshore Times Runner Up: Extravaganza Productions

SMALL BUSINESS EDUCATION In partnership with the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, the Hillsborough County Small Business Information Center (SBIC) holds FREE small business counseling every Tuesday and Wednesday, 8:30am to 4:00pm, at the Chamber. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 813689-1221.

FREE Working Smarter Workshops led by counselors of the Hillsborough County Small Business Information Center. “Business Plan Series I-IV” will be held on Tuesday, May 31st, Wednesday, June 1st, Tuesday, June 7th and Wednesday, June 8th, 9:30am to 11:30am. The “Business Plan Series” is a four-day, 4-part, step-by-step program for developing a business plan. At the conclusion of the series, attendees will have all the necessary components to create a plan and a certificate of completion will be issued. For more information or to register please contact Jamie Reid at jreid@ brandonchamber.com or 813-689-1221, ext.

8843.

LEADERSHIP BRANDON The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce congratulates the Leadership Brandon Class of 2011. Twenty-eight class members were recognized after the completion of the year- long program. Graduation ceremonies were held on Thursday, May 12, 2011, at The Embassy Suites – Tampa/Brandon. Dick Crippen, Senior Advisor for the Tampa Bay Rays was the keynote speaker for this event. Dick talked about how being involved in your community is important and that everyone should give back.

The Leadership Brandon Graduating Class of 2011 Includes: Jill Andress / Flair Etcetera Karen Atkinson / Valrico State Bank Adam Bantner /Adam Bantner, P.A. Jeff Brewer / Patriot Arms Ali Britton / APAC Customer Services, Inc. Dolly Brown / Everest University Jodi Chadwell / Designing Spaces Eric Cruz / Bivins & Hemenway, P.A. Dayna Davidson / Campo Family YMCA Jill Ferguson / Living Orderly, LLC Crystal Forkan / Tech Oracles Darren Fudge / Tampa Electric Company Scott Givens / Rory B. Weiner, P.A.

Jennifer Havener / USAmeriBank Chris Holway / Downstate Securities Group, P.A. LaShawn Jones / Hillsborough County Aviation Authority Cora Ligon / Brandon SouthShore Times/ The St. Petersburg Times/tbt* Scott Love / Love’s Tire & Service Center Phil Newman / Hillsborough County Sheriff ’s Department Ron Petrus / Tampa Electric Company Kaisa Puhle / Environmental Compliance Services, Inc. Jamie Reid / Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce Carl Shenning / Jennings & Associates Insurance, Inc. Sean Storch / DeVry University Laurel Tesmer / Osenton Law Offices, P.A. Jim Thorpe / Browning Moving & Storage Jason Tiek / MacDill AFB 6th AMXS Matt Wortman /Zaxby’s

The Leadership Brandon program is a community leadership development program of The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce that began in 1985. The Leadership Brandon program is a series of seminars, tours and interactive presentations concentrating on various phases of leadership development and community awareness. The program is open to all. Nominations for the Class of 2012 are currently underway.

For more information or to make a nomination, contact Crystal Colegrove at 813-689-1221, ext.

8824, or ccolegrove@brandonchamber.com.

Nomination forms for the Class of 2012 are also available at www.brandonchamber.com.

JUNE NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES Business After Hours – Tuesday, June 14th, 5:30pm, hosted by Sosa Law Office, P.A., 925 W. Brandon Blvd., Brandon.

Networking at Noon – Tuesday, June 21st, 12:00pm, hosted by Nova Southeastern University, 3632 Queen Palm Dr., Tampa.

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS - BRANDON Are you under 39 years of age? Or feel like it???

Then this group is for you. YP Brandon inspires young professionals to Lead by example, Grow by association, and Give back to the Brandon community. Come join the Young Professionals at GrillSmith, 459 Brandon Town Center Mall, Thursday, June 2nd, 5:30pm, for a Networking Social. This event is FREE for YP members and $5 for guests. Can’t make the social? Join us for a Straight Up Networking Luncheon on Wednesday, June 8th, 11:45am, at Buca di Beppo, 11105 Causeway Blvd., Brandon. For more information on YP Brandon or their events please contact Crystal Colegrove at ccolegrove@ brandonchamber.com or 813-689-1221, ext.

8824, or visit www.ypbrandon.com.

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Adam L. Bantner, P.A., Anthony Brit, P.A., Brandon Health and Rehabilitation Center, DavisWren CPA and Associates, Inc., Distributech, Globe Voice, Inc., MIDFLORIDA Credit Union/Brandon, Send Out Cards/Linda Cameron, The Woman Entrepreneur’s Mentor and Vanguard Management Group.

As Unique as

your Smile

Come see what makes us

different!

• Family Dentistry • Cosmetic Dentistry • Rehabilitative Dentistry • Emergencies Welcome

Call for an appointment:

813-689-9623

110 Knights Avenue N. Brandon, Florida 33510 www.sipsignaturedentistry.com

FOCUS Magazine brandon june 2011

11

The Premier Showplace for Talent in Florida

MAY 20 & 28 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

JUNE 11 & 24 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

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

JUNE 18 THE MYSTICS

The Mystics will perform their hits, including their number one “Hushabye.”

P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

MAY 21 LOLA &

THE SAINTS

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

MAY 27 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

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

JUNE 3 COVER TO

COVER

The trio covers the top hits from yesterday to today!

Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show in the Red Rose Dining Room.

JUNE 4, 10, 17 & 25 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

JULY 1 BOBBY PALERMO

Bobby Palermo brings you a night full of humor, impersonations and high energy audience interaction. Bobby has received numerous National Awards and has been selected Tampa Bay’s Entertainer of the Year – 2 years in row!

Destiny will open and close the show.

JULY 2, 8, 16, 29 & 30 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

JULY 9 & 29 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

JULY 15 COVER TO

COVER

The trio covers the top hits from yesterday to today!

Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

JULY 22 RICHIE

MERRITT

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

AUGUST 5 COVER TO

COVER

The trio covers the top hits from yesterday to today!

Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

AUGUST 6, 12, 19 & 27 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

AUGUST 13 & 26 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

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

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Feature» Valedictorians

Michael Calzadilla of Brandon

Steven Whitaker of Bloomingdale

Ryan Gibson of Newsome

VALEDICTORIANS the best of the best Written By: Cheryl Johnston

B

e encouraged by three Class of 2011 high school valedictorians: Michael Calzadilla of Brandon, Ryan Gibson of Newsome, and Steven Whitaker of Bloomingdale.

Beckstrand. Four brothers and a sister complete the family.

Typically, this title (Latin; vale dicere - to say farewell) is conferred upon the highest grade point graduate who then must wordsmith speeches to inspire reflection and express gratitude for the years many call the happiest of their lives.

Calzadilla: After semester one, the weighted GPA was 6.51 (3.83 unweighted). Classes included 11 AP classes and 2 HCC dual enrollments. I simply see math problems as puzzles to solve.

Focus extends appreciation to the HCPS system, supportive families, dedicated educators, and this caring community for assisting such excellent students. Our future is in great hands.

Focus: Congratulations, Gentlemen. Tell us first about your supportive families.

Calzadilla: My family includes Reinol and Eunice Calzadilla, brother Jonathan, 15, and maternal grandparents Nildo and Rosalia Puig.

I’ll be their first grandchild to graduate.

Gibson: My family includes mother and stepdad, Rhonda and Jonathan Davis, father and stepmom, Robert and Deborah Gibson, and five siblings. My brother, Robert Conner Gibson, 19, has been an amazing friend and role model.

Whitaker: My parents are Wayne and Rebecca Whitaker. Grandparents are William and Marilyn Whitaker and Shelley and Judith

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What did it take to become valedictorian?

Gibson: After 16 Advanced Placement Courses my GPA is 6.825 weighted (3.945 unweighted). Science and math are my strong suites.

Whitaker: With 15 AP classes, my weighted GPA is 7.02 (unweighted 3.98). Math is my strength, which helps in Physics and Chemistry, too. (Note: Steven is a National AP Scholar, a National Merit Commended Scholar, and a Tribune Scholar as well.)

Focus: Plans for college?

Calzadilla: I’ll attend the University of South Florida Honors College with approximately $50,000 in scholarships and hope to finish in three years. I’m leaning towards a Biomedical Science degree. USF’s excellent medical program, nearby excellent hospitals, and proximity to home helped me decide.

Gibson: I’ll attend the University of Florida Honors College for location, affordability, and prestige. I intend to study biochemistry and molecular biology.

Whitaker: I will attend Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah on a full-tuition scholarship to major in Electrical Engineering.

All my immediate family members and several cousins have attended BYU or will enroll.

BYU also has a very good honor code, which will help me surround myself with good people.

Focus: Mention a few favorite teachers, classes and strong influences.

Calzadilla: AP classes - Physics, Calculus, and Psychology were the most exciting subjects to learn. My favorite teachers have been: Mr. Misciasci, Mr. Ware, Ms. Hall, Mr. Bess, Mr. Reghanti, Mr. Ayres, Mr. Scott, and Mrs. Iglesias.

My parents have influenced me most, helping with school, not allowing me to miss, etc. Of course, I’ve missed days this year-- senioritis is real! But it’s true what they say: absence makes the grade grow smaller. Also, since my grandparents haven’t had a grandchild graduate from high school yet, I wanted to earn high honors.

Gibson: I enjoyed most AP courses, but particularly Psychology (Mr. Stepp), Language/Composition (Mrs. Clark), Biology (Mrs. Williamson), CalculusAB (Mrs. Ohme), European History (Mr. Gilbert), and US History (Mrs. Herzog). My older brother has been an amazing role model for me, forcing me to always strive for perfection.

Whitaker: My favorite AP teachers were Mrs. Masson (CalculusBC), Mr. Masson (Algebra II Honors), Mr. Pendino (Statistics), and Mr. Brod (PhysicsB). AP Computer ScienceA was a great class. My brother Bradley probably had the biggest influence, not because he urged me to be valedictorian but because he set a high academic standard with his own standardized tests. I saw him do his best, so I wanted to do mine.

Focus: With what activities were you involved?

Calzadilla: I earned community service hours at a daycare, teaching and tutoring homework and working with our school’s federal credit union. Relay for Life fundraising was also important. I’m a member of National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta. I played football through sophomore year but then needed to increase my school workload.

Gibson: I am a member of NHS, Rho Kappa, and Mu Alpha Theta. Through Interact Club I volunteered 300 hours. The most memorable work was at Dimples Playland, a daycare for abused children. I threw discus in varsity track and field, grades 10-12.

Whitaker: I helped Spanish Honor Society with the annual friendship celebration between Bloomingdale and Dover Elementary.

For my Eagle Scout service project I did maintenance in the Reading Garden at Dover.

I’ve been a BHS math team member four years

Feature» Valedictorians and a Science Brain Bowl participant for three.

I belong to Mu Alpha Theta, Spanish Honor Society, Science Honor Society, and NHS. Outdoors, I hike and camp with family.

Focus: Describe your career goals and future.

Calzadilla: I dream of my own practice as a Cardiologist or Neurologist and marriage in my twenties! A companion by my side to help with difficulties I’ll face would be great.

Ultimately, I’d like enough money for a plot of land where my father, uncles, grandpa and I could build houses for our whole family to live together peacefully and within walking distance of each other.

Gibson: I hope to be a Neurologist or a Neurosurgeon.

Whitaker: I want to be an Electrical Engineer.

I plan on being married with at least one child by that time.

Focus: What fills your spare time?

Calzadilla: I workout, play guitar, violin, piano, and sing. I play lead guitar in a band with friends. As a Jehovah’s Witness, I also thoroughly enjoy preaching. During required field service we encourage others to read their Bibles and learn about God. Many people knock religion, but I have been blessed with one that’s kept me straight, with a clean moral conscience and a worldwide brotherhood. I hope everyone can find something like that.

Gibson: I spend free time with family and friends. You might see me socializing at Starbucks, Panera, or at the fields playing various sports.

Whitaker: Video games and taking tests from past math competitions fills much of my free time. Writing computer programs and family camping/hiking trips are fun, too.

Focus: When did you determine to pursue the valedictorian ranking?

Calzadilla: I never intended to pursue it.

Freshman year I didn’t work, refused to read, wouldn’t play an instrument, or behave properly. Sophomore year I improved but coasted. In junior year I learned what valedictorian was. I was far from it. I “turned smart” and began to try. Beginning in senior year, I concluded I wouldn’t finish in even the top 10. I just admired top students and kept thinking what could’ve been if I had applied myself earlier. But there’s one thing about me: I HATE mediocrity. So I devised a game to compete with myself for the highest GPA possible, with 6.0 as minimum, only for my own need of self-achievement. The semester report card shocked me. 6.51! I didn’t care about rank; I only knew I had annihilated my expectations. I finished first in my mind. Two months later a top student mentioned his drop in rank. With adrenaline pumping, a few friends and I ran to my counselor, who verified with a big smile, “You’re number 1”. When I told my mother, she screamed with joy. The counselor cautioned it could still change, but right then and there, for that moment, I was the valedictorian and that’s all that mattered.

Gibson: A lot of AP courses simply interested me, not because I wanted GPA credit. At the beginning of my junior year I realized the top was reachable. I continued challenging myself with a goal to finish first.

Whitaker: Great grades and as many AP classes as possible was always a goal. I realized freshman year I had a shot at valedictorian; however, my main goal sophomore year was to earn a 7.0 GPA. Although I wanted to be valedictorian, I wasn’t just going to take a ridiculous amount of online classes to beat anyone whose GPA was higher. Luckily that wasn’t a problem.

four years - I’m thankful for their support.

Whitaker: Being involved with three divisions of Bloomingdale’s math team my senior year: I participated on the Calculus team and coached the Pre-Calculus and Algebra II teams.

Focus: What advice have you for students following in your footsteps?

Calzadilla: Don’t try to follow in mine -aim higher! I am proof that it’s never too late to give your best. Marianne Williamson writes: “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate… we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask..,,‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?’

Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world.… We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

Gibson: Commit yourself fully to everything you do. Never be afraid to take on a challenge, because nothing is worse than regretting what could have been easily avoided or achieved.

Focus: Briefly mention one thing you’ll remember about your high school experience.

Calzadilla: The story of how I became valedictorian.

Focus: So, about the speech - was it difficult to write and present?

Gibson: Amazing friends made over the last

Calzadilla: Well, such an open-ended speech

Gibson: It was difficult because everything I wrote seemed overused. It takes time to write a truly original speech.

Whitaker: My speech came relatively easily once the deadline was close; before that, I couldn’t concentrate on it. An inspiring speech I heard (the difference between being and doing), helped me express my mind.

Focus: OK, Valedictorians. Let’s end with a few parent comments.

The Calzadillas: “We are very proud of Michael and know he will be a success because he knows what he wants.”

Rhonda Davis (for Ryan): “We always want our children to achieve their goals, but to watch Ryan work so diligently to pursue this one has been very exciting. I’m so very proud of his hard work and tenacity. On graduation day I’ll stand with prideful tears and say ‘Thats my boy’.

(Also, Dual Enrollment classes will help more than AP if you’re trying to move on up! You finish in one semester and get credit as if you took two of AP. They’re worth the same, but you finish in half the time.)

Whitaker: Spread the online classes over four years. Don’t destroy your social life the last two. Also, to keep a good reputation, don’t brag about how smart you are; people already know, and nobody likes a braggart.

really gives you freedom, which is exactly what made it intimidating. I thought, “What can I say to my classmates that hasn’t been said by every Valedictorian before me?” Mine was a light-hearted, unconventional speech, poking fun at some teachers, students, and myself... not at all formal. I wanted graduates to feel good about our accomplishments and to send them home for family celebrations quickly with smiling faces and hearts.

Wayne & Becky Whitaker: “Steven’s four older brothers were good students and Eagle Scouts. Though it was daunting to follow in their footsteps, Steven built upon their marvelous examples, set his own goals, worked hard, achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, and even surpassed them academically. With pride we look forward to seeing what the future brings.”

Congratulations, 2011 Graduates. As you determine our future, be the ones to make a difference. We’re counting on you.

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FOCUS Magazine brandon june 2011

15

Spotlight» Dr. Derek Busciglio

Building on the Foundation began by his Father Dr. Derek Busciglio Continues to Grow the Family Practice Interview by Brian West • Courtesy of Dr. Busciglio

D

r. Derek Busciglio and his family are working hard to provide the services necessary for their patients. His father began Busciglio Orthodontics in 1972. The practice has remained in their original location, in the building his grandfather helped to build, for almost 40 years. I had an opportunity to speak with Dr. Busciglio about his practice, and his campaign against texting and driving.

Orthodontist Dr Derek M. Busciglio

Christmas Dinner with staff 2009

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Dr. Derek Busciglio’s Father Dr John A. Busciglio at an office appreciation Christmas Dinner in 2009

Spotlight» Dr. Derek Busciglio Focus: Your father started the practice in 1972. Was he the f irst dentist in the family?

Busciglio: Yes. He was a pharmacist first. He got his Pharmacy degree from the University of Florida and decided it really wasn’t fulfilling him. So he went back to school for dentistry and took the dental exam. Back then when you took the dental exam, they’d give you a piece of chalk and you had to carve a tooth. Now they do a visual abilities test, where you look at shapes and try to organize them, or they’ll have a number of figures on the screen with multiple choice answers, and they’ll ask how many figures you can put in this area. So it just has to do with visual and manual dexterity. Then he went into the Air Force in Biloxi, Mississippi.

After that, he returned to school for the additional training required to become an Orthodontist. So he finished school and then opened up the office here. He established Busciglio Orthodontics, which at the time was the first full time orthodontic facility in Brandon.

football. Wrestling was my biggest thing in those days . I played tennis; I was just barely good enough to make the team but it was great off-season training. I ended up going to USF and played football there.

Then I went off to dental school at Tufts University in Boston in 2000. I finished up there 7 years later after I completed my Orthodontic residency. I came home in July of 2007 and started working with my dad.

Focus: Your sister is about to graduate and join the practice?

Busciglio: She’s on track. We call her the triple doctor. She has a dental degree, a pediatric degree and then an orthodontic degree. There are only a handful of dual specialists in Florida with pediatric and orthodontic specialty certificates. She would have been done already if she hadn’t decided to go back to school. It’s another

Focus: You opened the off ice in Plant City?

Busciglio: Yes. It’s a satellite office.

We opened in January of 2010.

Previously, we shared an office with another dentist, this new facility gives us room to see more patients in Plant City and offer more days and times for appointments.

Focus: So did your dad’s work influence your decision to study dentistry?

Busciglio: Yes. I grew up here in Grand Opening of Plant City this clinic. My siblings and I would location in 2010 run around and squirt the water at one another. I thought I wanted to do this when I was little; probably 9 or 2 years to do another residency. I’m proud 10 years old. Today it’s more challenging of her for making that commitment. The to stay on track. I have a nephew who’s timing couldn’t be better, as my dad is playing baseball at Jesuit and he wants to retiring, Dana will be getting out of school. be an orthodontist. He can do it. He’s There are a lot of dentists who practice bright. He’s already looking at Duke and orthodontists using braces and Invisalign, Notre Dame to play ball. however parents should always seek out orthodontists to treat themselves and their Focus: Where did you go to school? children. Orthodontists have the additional Busciglio: I went to high school at Plant 2-3 years of specialty training required City and went to college at the University to become an accredited orthodontist by of South Florida. My brothers and sisters the American Dental Association. www. were going to Jesuit and Tampa Catholic, braces.org has more info on that. and right when I was getting ready to go to high school, my parents moved to Plant City and said, “We’re not driving all the way to Tampa.” So I ended up going to Plant City High School and I am glad I did. I got involved in athletics. I played

Focus: So what’s differentiates your practice from others?

Busciglio: First thing I’d say is family, then training. Aside from my own family, we

also have several members of our office staff that have been with us for a really long time. All of our assistants have extra training, what we call expanded functions training. You can be a dental assistant, and then go to expanded functions training for orthodontics, which is what we require. It’s important enough to us to spend the time and money to have that added knowledge and training. We want them to be the best for themselves and our patients. We also do a lot of Invisalign treatments with remarkable results. My dad was one of the first practitioners to use the Invisalign system in 1999, right when it came on to the market. We are taking Invisalign to the next level in terms of treatment types and results.

Focus: Do you get a certain clientele that wants the Invisalign product?

Busciglio: Yes. Absolutely. It’s a clientele that is very interested in aesthetics, typically adults.

But, I must say, with the new Invisalign Teen product, I’m treating more teenagers with it and they’re doing very well. You’d be amazed at how well they respond.

As long as I get compliance I can do some amazing things with it.

You wear the aligners all the time, and remove them just to eat and to brush.

We also do traditional braces, but the Invisalign is what we’re excited about. It’s a neat new tool and it’s working out pretty well.

Focus: When is the recommended time to begin bringing children to the orthodontist?

Busciglio: The American Dental Association recommends the first visit to an Orthodontist when a child is about 7 years old. That’s a good time to look at potential developmental problems, early treatments for cross-bites and impacted teeth. It’s important to treat some things early. If a child does have cross-bites, between the ages of 7 and 12 there’s a lot of growth and the jaw will start to

grow off center and you can end up with skeletal abnormalities. Those are things you want to correct early. We treat a lot of adults. Probably 30 percent of my practice is adults. Some tell me I never wore my retainers and my teeth have shifted, that’s when we start talking about Invisalign.

Focus: What got you interested in the don’t text and drive game – www. donttextanddrivegame.com?

Busciglio: Well, I was rear-ended in Hyde Park. I was going along, not fast; maybe 10-15 mph. This girl rear-ends me and when she gets out of her car, she just comes right out and tells me, “I looked down to text and looked up and you had stopped.” We didn’t report it, but that was my personal experience with [texting and driving.] Then a friend of mine in Miami developed an online video trivia game. I thought it would be a good way to promote the problems with texting and driving so we partnered up to start my Don’t text and Drive campaign. WFLA came out a few weeks ago to do a piece on it. It was part of their Great Hangup segment on the five o’clock news. It was pretty neat seeing Reginald Roundtree covering my campaign. Most of our patients I’m seeing are teenagers, just getting out of their braces or Invisalign and they’re getting their learners permits to drive.

So this is a perfect age to try to get this message to them that texting and driving is as bad or worse than drinking and driving.

Focus: Do you f ind yourself discussing the perils of texting and driving with your patients?

Busciglio: I’m constantly telling them to stop texting. I’ll be trying to work on them and they’ll be texting in between my work. When I stop for a moment they will pick up their phone again. Even worse, they’ll hold their phone up and begin texting while I’m working on them, thinking it’s not distracting. There’s just no time or place that they don’t think is inappropriate. We have been giving away thumb bands that say, “Don’t text and drive” as reminder for our patients as well.

Busciglio Orthodontics is doing well, and with their recent expansion to Plant City, a new office coming to Wesley Chapel and the additional services that will available through Dr. Dana Busciglio, they should see continued success for years to come.

We’d like to wish you continued success in all your endeavors, and in your efforts to inform others of the dangers of texting and driving. Thanks for making a difference.

FOCUS Magazine brandon june 2011

17

business Profile» Moon Law Group

Photos provided by Moon Law Group, P.L.

Passionate About Meeting Needs of the Moon Law Group, P.L., Attorneys Local Brandon Community and Counselors at Law P Written By: Cheryl Rogers-Turner

aul M. Tabio, Esquire and Mark R. Moon, Esquire, merged offices in 2009 to form the Moon Law Group, P.L.

Well known and respected in the Brandon area for over 30 years, the Law Offices of Paul M. Tabio and the Hillsborough Legal Center merged with the Law Office’s of Mark Robert Moon, LLC to provide more comprehensive services to the Brandon area community.

The Firm is a member of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce and works with the Greater Brandon Community Foundation Angel Program, which was established to help families in the community who have a family member suffering from the effects of a life-threatening disease or catastrophe.

Practical needs are met as the program matches individuals and families with resources available in the community.

The two attorneys have known each other for some time as Moon had previously been employed by Tabio at the Hillsborough

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Legal Center. Moon himself is a graduate of Plant City High School, and both Moon and Tabio attended the University of Florida at Gainesville.

Moon’s passion is for assisting area veterans with VA Appeals, helping them with retirement, medical, deployment and criminal matters. “I feel there are a high number of veterans in the Brandon area with issues our Firm may be able to assist in resolving,” emphasizes Moon. He founded the Moon Law Group in order to help individuals, small businesses and veterans receive affordable, attentive, professional legal services.

This past January Moon returned to the office after serving one year in Iraq for the National Guard. Banners welcoming him home still adorn the building the Firm occupies on the corner of North Parsons Avenue and Larsen Street. His wife, Marguerite, is a Registered Nurse at Bayfront Medical Center. They are parents to three children. Moon is actively involved in coaching Little League sports in his

spare time. He remains physically active by competing in triathlons when not busy coaching or volunteering.

Paul Tabio specializes in Family Law, Bankruptcy and Criminal Law. He points out they are a General Practice Firm, dealing in several different areas, such as Divorce and Family Law, Bankruptcy, Personal Injury, Business Law, Real Estate and Estate Planning, however each attorney has his own niche, or area of practice about which they are most passionate.

Tabio is relaxed when he speaks, and his eyes light up as he discusses his creative side.

Time away from the office and courtrooms is devoted to his artwork. The Firm’s office is casually decorated with art reminiscent of the 70’s while contemporary music relaxes visitors in the lobby. The friendly receptionist, Donna, is not hidden behind a glass wall. The open and airy spaces allow her to visit with clients. Moon Law Group is a comfortable, inviting, and most welcome change from stuffy, formal law offices.

Alexis K. Logan, associate with Moon Law Group and former Assistant Public Defender, specializes in criminal defense cases for the Firm. With offices in Brandon, Tampa and St. Petersburg, and counsel available for corporate law and taxation as well, the Firm is well rounded to meet the needs of local families and small businesses.

If you are interested in utilizing the services of Moon Law Group, or if you know of someone who might benefit from their counsel, please call, or visit the Firm’s website, www.MoonLawGroup.com. In Hillsborough County phone 813-200-7255.

For Pinellas County dial 727-361-0443. The Brandon office is located at 705 N. Parsons Avenue in the 33510 zip code.

Moon Law Group 813-200-7255.

For Pinellas County dial 727-361-0443.

The Brandon office 705 N. Parsons Avenue in the 33510 zip code. www.MoonLawGroup.com

dining & entertainment » event calendar

brandon

calendar of events

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

Channelside Fireworks Historically, over 50,000 People come to the Downtown/Channelside area, but you can also view the fireworks from a variety of `less crowded’ spots nearby. Here are a few ideas below: the Tampa Bay History Center, Jackson’s Bistro, and all along Bayshore Blvd.

» The Florida Aquarium- Freedom Fest

The Florida Aquarium, located at 701 Channelside Dr, is the site of Tampa’s daylong FreedomFest.

Where live Music and Entertainment start in the afternoon, and end with a spectacular Fireworks.

Demonstration at 9:00 PM. Special $10 admission price after 3:00 pm with extended hours until 9:30 pm. It’s the ideal family friendly environment to view Channelside’s .fireworks.

» Channelside Bay Plaza

• Working Smarter Workshop Series Business Plan Part 3 9:30AM-2PM GBCC Teco Energy Board Room

Wednesday, June 8 • Military Affairs council Meeting 8AM to 9AM GBCC – Teco Energy Boardroom

Friday, June 10 • Poetry Group Writing 7:30 PM Barnes & Noble Booksellers Brandon Square 122 Brandon Town Center For more information: 813-661-9883

Channelside Bay Plaza, located at 615 Channelside Dr, is fun for the whole family on the waterfront

Monday, June 13

St. Pete Fireworks

• Past President’s/Chairman Council Meeting 12PM – 1PM GBCC Teco Energy Board Room

with holiday fireworks at 9pm.

» Museum of Fine Arts, St Petersburg

Museum of Fine Arts, St Petersburg, located at 255 Beach Drive NE , Saint Petersburg, FL 33701. Join

Tuesday, June 14

July 4, 2011 6:00-Fireworks Display $34 Museum Members $44 Non-Members Celebrate in style

• Business After Hours: Sosa Law Office 5:30PM -7:30PM 952 W. Brandon Blvd.

For more information: (813) 681-5640

us in St. Petersburg’s premier front row seats for the best Fourth of July Celebration in town! Monday,

with a gourmet barbeque (see below), champagne toast, live entertainment by Motel Funk, iced tea/soft drinks, an air-conditioned waterfront view of the city’s fireworks celebration in the glass Conservatory

overlooking the bay and open access to The Human Touch: Contemporary Art from the RBC Wealth Management Collection. A beer/wine cash bar will also be available. Call 727.896.2667, ext. 258 or

727.822.1032 for reservations. Only 150 seats are available. Hosted by the MFA Cafe. Please note that

a credit card number is required to hold your reservation and cancellation requests are required 48 hours in advance. All-U-Eat BBQ Buffet Menu Smoked Brisket: Moist & Flavorful Slow-Smoked Over

Hardwood with Mr. K’s Sassy Barbecue Sauce & Fresh Rolls Texas Style Grilled Chicken: Tomatoes, Garlic, & Onions BBQ Pulled Pork Baked Potato with Melted Brie and Chives Ranch Beans with

Jalapenos and Cotija Cheese Chilled Salads: Tropical Fresh Fruit Salad Spring Mix and Romaine with Roasted Corn, Jicama, Black Beans, Tomatoes with Creamy Avocado Ranch & Cilantro Vinaigrette Dressings • Tortilla Chips with Piquant Homemade Tomato Salsa Fresco Desserts: Gourmet Fudge

Brownies Warm Apple Cobbler includes water, iced tea, and soda gourmet Desserts Vanilla cheesecake with fresh berries$6 Triple layer chocolate fudge cake$7 Key lime pie$6 Vanilla Ice Cream$4

» Busch Gardens Fireworks event

Fireworks will go up on both July 3rd and July 4th

Saturday, June 25 • Local Heroes Casino Night 7PM The Bridges, 11350 Bloomingdale Ave, Riverview, FL 33578 Tickets: $35 in advance, $45 at the door Presented by: K-9 for Veterans, Freedom Excursions, RVR Horse Rescue, Knights of Columbus and Everyday Heroes USA For more information: www. everdayheroesusa.org

Ongoing Events: • Brandon HCC Toastmasters Tuesdays from 7PM to 8PM Brandon HCC administration building

room 109 Free to the public For more information: www.brandon. freetoasthost.us • Monthly on the 2nd Wed of Every Month Shake It Off Free Weight Loss Seminar Time: 6:30pm to 8pm Come learn how to lose weight safely and naturally without drugs. Learn about healthy weight loss, how we target quick loss of inches and fat, feeding muscle mass, increasing energy, lessening cravings, and we will teach you how to keep your weight off!

Seating is limited so please RSVP to 813657-4641.

Event Directions: Located in the Badlands Shopping Center at 2088 Badlands Drive same shopping center as Rolling Pin & Cork and Olive.

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FOCUS Magazine brandon june 2011

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FOCUS Magazine brandon june 2011

21

entertainment » dining profile photo by jesse stone

The oven that brings in all the business at Anthony’s does all the work - in the kitchen there are no freezers, no fryers, and no microwaves.

side of every piece. Made with pasta and ricotta cheese inside, it’s a wonder the restaurant had any cheese left after making this specialty.

Dino is proud of just about everything on the menu - and so it was just about everything on the menu that we tried.

Dino says the Eggplant Marino is “the best thing on the menu. People say they don’t like eggplant, and I say, ‘try this!’” I would include myself in that group, and I, too, had a new opinion after trying it.

Chopped ultra thin and then layered over itself several times, it’s drizzled in tomato sauce and Romano cheese, and I’m here to tell you, this doesn’t resemble your regular eggplant.

The Coal Oven Roasted Chicken Wings are served with caramelized onions and comes with Focaccia bread. “You need that sweetness,” Dino said of the caramelized onions. The 800 degree oven “is so intense it just locks in the juices.” We learned that the oven was hot enough to actually sear all sides of food the moment it goes into the oven. Indeed, the wings were full of juice and flavor as promised. The pepper shone through in the marinade. The wings can’t be duplicated in one’s home oven, simply because it’s impossible.

Anthony’s Coal “Warning: Our Pizza Fired Pizza is Well Done!”

A written By: John Ross

sign inside of Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza that reads, “Warning: Our Pizza is Well Done!” uses the restaurant’s motto for double meaning It’s well done because it tastes good, of course, but obviously well done means cooked through, which is just what would be expected in a restaurant where pizzas are cooked in an oven hot enough to make a medieval blacksmith shield his eyes.

At 800 degrees, Anthony’s maintains an early 1900’s New York tradition for making authentic Italian pizza. The special coal used to cook just about everything at Anthony’s is called Anthracite, a type of coal that can be found only in Pennsylvania and comprises just one percent of all coal worldwide. Visually appealing with a high luster, the coal burns so cleanly that no smoke is ever seen coming from the chimneys of Anthony’s except for the few minutes in the morning when a log is thrown in the oven to bring the sagging overnight temperatures back up to peak.

22

june 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

Due to the intense heat at which foods are cooked at Anthony’s, manager Dino says that the time window that separates a “Well done” pizza from a “Burnt” pizza can be as little as 15 to 20 seconds.

In addition, it is the nature of the oven to change in temperature throughout the day, and it takes a lot of skill to read the oven’s fluctuating temperature zones to keep foods cooking properly. Because of the small fluctuations day to day and hour to hour, Dino notes that customers can experience a slightly new experience each time they come in, even if they order the same menu item each time. “We may sell 50 pepperoni pizzas in a day, but all 50 will have their own little signature on them,” he said.

The Anthony’s Classic Italian Salad is large enough for two people at minimum - I don’t see one person finishing this salad unless they come starving and plan to eat nothing else. It’s a good change up to the rich, cheesy roasted pizza you’ll be enjoying.

The Greek olives set it off and give it some nice bite.

The Italian Pork Ribs with Vinegar Peppers are roasted with garlic, rosemary, and white wine. The meat came right off the bone.

The traditional Calzone was huge! Served on a large wooden platter, it came sliced from the kitchen with melted mozzarella cheese oozing from every

The Coal Oven Roast Beef Sandwich was filled to bursting with roast beef, with the two sides of the Focaccia bread having to be connected with a toothpick to hold it closed. The bread for the sandwich is made fresh to order and the roast beef is roasted for a long time and sliced paper thin for the sandwich.

Come try the unique twist on Italian food at Anthony’s Coal Fire Pizza, where the 800 degree anthracite coal furnace gives the food a distinction that will leave an impression you’ll want to tell your friends about. If you stop by on Fuhgeddaboutit Fridays (every Friday) from 4 p.m. to close, all beer and wine is half price.

Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza 1912 W. Brandon Blvd.

Mon-Sun 11:30-10 (813) 409-3830

photo by jesse stone

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

813-924-4287

$325,000 or Lease for $2,500/Month $260,000

Take a video tour and see additional pics at www.101building.com FOCUS Magazine brandon june 2011

23

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

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.