FOCUS Brandon 05-06

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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

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

www.pediatricdentalcenter.net

TABLE OF CONTENTS FOCUS Celebrates 07 Tenth Anniversary 08

Volume 5 Issue 6 • February 2012

focusbrandon.com

Jared

Advertising Assistant

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

Cheryl

Mike

Publisher

Copy Editor

21 07

LOCAL

14

10

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

Local stories this month include coverage of the Busciglios’ wedding video that one edition in 2002 to the six we publish monthly now, it’s won an international film award and a review of the VillageFromPlayers’ production been a growing and learning experience. Just like any business, celebrating Sherlock Holmes’ birthday. we’ve faced challenges and experienced some ups and downs.

Thankfully, mostly ups. But here we are today, still thrilled to be doing what we love - sharing your joys and connecting our community.

14 FEATURE

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

Focus celebrates its 10th Anniversary this month and we thought it would be fun to share some perspective and fun pics of our staff with you.

Angel

Credit Manager

DeDe

Aldo

Account Manager

18

www.focusplan

Anthony

Art Director

Account Manager

Julie

Account Manager

Kelleigh

Account Manager

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

18 SPOTLIGHT

The February Spotlight shines on Scott Robinson, owner of A Touch of Wellness, and member of the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce. Enjoy his optimism for our economic future.

20 BUSINESS PROFILE

LaShunda Mangum established her Immaculate Janitorial Services business because she loves to clean - seriously. Her residential and commercial clients agree that she is on a mission to provide just that.

21 DINING PROFILE

Our dining expert Cheryl now calls Ryuu Japanese Steak House her new favorite at the Brandon Town Center mall. Contemporary styling, extreme cleanliness, fresh food and fun - served around the teppan grills or in more intimate booths.

11 - CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 22 - EVENT CALENDAR

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.

4

FEBRUARY 2012 thefocusmagazine.com

ON THE COVER Scott Robinson

FOCUSBRANDON.COM Full digital version of the current and past magazines Extended features, interviews, dining profiles and business profiles with extra content Community news updates

schedules, publication we had to postpone s

Focus editorial conten readers’ suggestions touches us most is ho throughout the year. W shoots for the new Str our Makeover issue. W shown by the four Ma celebrating their new was especially touchin Vicki Hannah, Her son hearts.

We love firsts, too, an Annual Cutest Kids co magazine. We’re exp year.

www.adhs-brandon.com

813-315-9850

Dr. Tanner is a University of South Florida graduate and a lifelong area resident

522 Oakfield Dr Brandon, FL 33511

Dr. Lisa E. Tanner

Get answers to your hearing questions at our one day NO COST event

“Ask an Audiologist”

Event will be held on February 16, 2012 from 2:00 – 7:00 at Advanced Diagnostics & Hearing Solutions 522 Oakfield Drive, Brandon, FL 33511.

For more information, call (813)315-9850 Our goal is to inform you on the latest technology available. Let us help you navigate your hearing health care by finding the right answers tailored for you and your lifestyle.

C

ome meet Dr. Tanner and her staff. Ask Questions. Learn about hearing loss, hearing aids and other hearing solutions. Talk to us about T-Coils, assistive listening devices, personal FM systems, looping and hearing aids with Bluetooth. Come see, touch and listen to hearing devices.

A HEARING SOLUTION YOU CAN TRUST! To learn more about Dr. Tanner and Advanced Diagnotics and Hearing Solutions, please visit us online at www.adhs-brandon.com FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON FEBRUARY 2012

5

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER February is the month friends and lovers show tender expressions of their appreciation for those special relationships in their lives. It’s also the month when fairs and festivals are ramping up to welcome crowds.

The New Physical Therapy Gym Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy We offer a wide range of nursing services: Infusion & Enteral, Therapy~Wound, Respiratory, Tracheotomy, and Total Parenteral Nutrition Care

Providing short Term and Long Term Care.

We accept Medicare, Humana, Wellcare and Other Major Insurances.

2202 West Oak Ave. • Plant City 33563 • 813-754-3761

Such is the case especially in eastern Hillsborough County where we, and visitors from around the country, will soon be enjoying the annual Florida State Fair and Florida Strawberry Festival. Since 1930 our farmers, area businesses, and local civic organizations have celebrated the farming/ranching industries and the bountiful berry harvest. We celebrate with food, great entertainment, pageants, artwork, crafts, horticulture, animal shows, vendors and more. And almost a million people come to party with us. Are we a blessed community or what?

Speaking of special blessings in the month of love, the Brandon area is now on the international film industry map because the wedding video of locals Dr. Derek Busciglio, DDS and his wife Katie has won the equivalent of an Oscar in the wedding film category. They chose to marry a year ago in Italy, surrounded by family and close friends, and have the occasion filmed by VHVIDEO.COM, a Land o’ Lakes firm recognized internationally for its productions. Don’t miss the story of Ciao Italia and their Cinebistro reception here!

We also wanted to share with you our 10th Anniversary reflections, along with a few fun photos from past and present. This February we celebrate our working relationships with employees, vendors, and you, our readers - the ones for whom we write, design, and promote. You’ll never know how your Facebook comments about what Focus has meant to you encouraged us to continue sharing your stories.

Read also to meet three local business people who “love” their Brandon community and appreciate their customer relationships: Scott Robinson, LaShunda Mangum and Robert Smith will inspire you as they have us - to shop local and build those community ties that strengthen the best in all of us.

Happy Valentine’s Month!

Mike and DeDe Floyd

Mike Floyd - Publisher mike@floydpublications.com

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FEBRUARY 2012 thefocusmagazine.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.

Sales Julie Hasting | Aldo Trevino | Kelligh Klein Production Anthony Sassano |Tony Cartagena

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.

Distribution Byron Spradlin Belva DeVane

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

Staff Writers Cheryl Johnston Brian West | Joe Bowles |Derek Maul | Dan Conrod Heather Davis | Megan Braglin | Amanda Molinaro

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.

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

Photographers Aldo Trevino Lori Blaser | Jennifer Darnell

LOCAL » FOCUS The Cast of the Village Players, “Penultimate Problem of Sherlock Holmes” Left to right: Ramona Horracks-Mrs. Hudson, Webster Pierce-Prof.

Moriarity, Tom BronsonSherlock Holmes, Hal Granholm-Dr. Watson, (back center)-Larry LaneDr. Phinuit. (center front)Kennda Varnum-Mrs. Piper, Maurice CecchiniInspector Lestrade, Larry Sprinkle-English Gentleman, Cosi BellosoIrene Adler (not pictured John Harrer- Monsieur Dupin & Ann Porter-the voice of the late Mrs. Watson)

WHO IS OUT TO GET SHERLOCK HOLMES? VILLAGE PLAYERS CELEBRATE SHERLOCK HOLMES’ BIRTHDAY WRITTEN BY: DALE BLISS

H

appy Birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Sherlock Holmes?… Yes, January 6 marked the birthdate of Sherlock Holmes, one of our most celebrated detectives.

An atmosphere of mystery and spine tingling “who done it” filled the James McCabe Theater the evening oj January 6, keeping

audience members on the edge of their seats.

The exquisite dinner had anyone’s taste buds surrendering to the tantalizing chicken and yellow rice with black beans provided by La Septima.

The Village Players dressed in authentic period costumes of the era of Sherlock

Holmes and his infamous sidekick Dr. Watson. The audience was transported back in time to the streets of London in the 1890s to feel the cold, dark and damp night as the detectives pursued every footprint and challenged every clue.

Theater. The Theater was built in 1915.

Gail Pierce, director/board member of the Village Players and long time fan of Sherlock Holmes said, “We were an almost sellout.”

Pierce has directed many Sherlock Holmes plays with this local company.

The daring yet cautious Sherlock Holmes, played by Tom Bronson, took center stage and of course, at his side was Hal Granholm, recreating the character of the ever popular Dr. Watson.

Pierce’s sidekick and friend, Terri Cecchini came to her aid as assistant along with her trusty cohort Ginger Eisenhauer Masker, the Assistant Director.

Pierce complimented Granholm’s commitment to the group. “A special thanks to Hal Granholm, playing Dr. Watson, for being the first to get to the theater and the last to leave and always there to lend a helping hand and a smile.

Proceeds from this charming mystery dinner theater will help future productions for the Village Players and, just as importantly, to restore and make renovations to the nostalgic and inviting historical James McCabe

Pierce revealed, “Some of the most famous characters returned to visit Sherlock Holmes to warn him that ‘someone’ was planning to murder both him and the professor.”

For information regarding the Village Players and upcoming productions, call Gail Pierce at 813-685-1664 or 813-300-1817.

Where Brandon Ends and the FUN Begins!

• Dinner • DJs • Live Bands • Dancing • Ladies Night

• Late Night Menu • Pool • Arcade Games • Karaoke

Something For ALL!

813-685-9218

1602 E. SR 60, Valrico, FL 33594 Find Us on

...............

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON FEBRUARY 2012

7

LOCAL » FOCUS

CIAO ITALIA W STORY BY: CHERYL JOHNSTON

hen Katie Mullis and Dr. Derek Busciglio fell in love, they never dreamed they’d be stars in an international award winning film.

They simply wanted a “something different” experience that would make memories for a lifetime.

The couple decided to marry in Italy because Derek’s father, John, is second generation American with family roots in Sicily. Little did they know when they planned their destination wedding with an intimate group of 31 family and friends that the video of their 15-day experience, produced

by VHVIDEO.COM, would win an international wedding film award.

In fact, “Ciao Italia” won THE award coveted by many a wedding cinematography company the world over.

The international “Best of Show - Short Form Wedding” award from the Wedding Event Cinematographers Association (WEVA) is to this field as an Oscar is to the Academy Awards and Hollywood celebrities.

Based in Land o’ Lakes, Florida, VHVIDEO.COM is a partnership among three extraordinary filmmakers: Executive Producers - David Hohenthaner, Maureen

8

FEBRUARY 2012 thefocusmagazine.com

INTERNATIONAL AWARD WINNING WEDDING VIDEO

Taylor and Dave Phillips. The awards displayed in their studio never fail to wow visitors.

Since 2004, the company has earned 27 awards from WEVA International, with eight of those coming in 2011. According to Taylor, “This one for the Busciglio wedding is the biggest - from start to finish. Our goal is always to capture the natural, and with this family’s help, we did.”

Hohenthaner added, “This was a game changer for us. We were already internationally recognized, but this stepped it up.”

Taylor and Hohenthaner spent 10 days with the wedding party in Italy in order to capture the moments with high-end 35mm optic HD still cameras (1080i) that shoot HD video. To trim 10 days down to a 45-minute award winning film was no easy task. Postproduction work totaled approximately 280 hours on four tri-bites of footage.

But to all involved, the investment was worth every moment now preserved forever.

Beginning with Derek and Katie packing for the trip on August 31st of 2010, the couple’s joy is evident through the pre-ceremony shopping/sightseeing, the rehearsal dinner, the September 10th wedding day, reception

and first trip through the hotel room door as man and wife.

To celebrate and share with family and friends here at home upon their return, the newlyweds hosted the film premier of “Ciao Italia” with two showings, complete with film posters, at CineBistro in Hyde Park. Invited guests brought their golden ticket movie passes, enjoyed hors d’oeuvres, danced to live music, and received a gift from the “Ciao Italia” film stars - a keepsake HD Blue Ray disc of the film.

The Busciglios celebrated their first anniversary on September 10, 2011 by turning down the lights and reliving the wedding trip on film. Their personal copy is three hours long. In celebrating this way, they were reminded why they couldn’t be more pleased with their decision to marry abroad and invest in a forever memorykeeper produced by VHVIDEO.COM. Katie encouraged others to consider using experts to preserve life’s significant moments.

She said, “This film captures something

so special and so intimate. We shared our wedding experience with people who will be in our lives forever and see our children grow up. We can show “Ciao Italia” to our future kids and grandkids. I think every bride could do this. The best wedding gift ever is to have a great wedding video.”

Derek added, “Everything went off perfectly.

We have no regrets, but we would have if it had not been filmed. This preserved a bond we’ll share forever. It brought our families closer together and those we met in the process, too. We can watch and relive it over and over.”

For a sampling of “Ciao Italia”, visit VHVIDEO.COM or YouTube.

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON FEBRUARY 2012

9

Tickets go on sale Dec. 5th, 2011 at 8:00 am • www.flstrawberryfestival.com

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

®

s e i r o m e M t e e w Growing S

REBA

HANK WILLIAMS, JR. “TAKING BACK THE COUNTRY TOUR”

VINCE GILL

MAR. 1 - MAR. 11, 2012 - PLANT CITY, FLORIDA

10

FEBRUARY 2012 thefocusmagazine.com

THE BAND PERRY

THE CHARLIE DANIELS BAND

LUKE BRYAN

JOSH TURNER

THE OAK RIDGE BOYS

GRETCHEN WILSON

THE GATLIN BROTHERS

CRYSTAL GAYLE

DEMI LOVATO

LEE GREENWOOD

LOUISE MANDRELL

THE JANEDEAR GIRLS

BRANDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE » FOCUS

BRANDON CHAMBER BUSINESS BRIEFING 2012 ANNUAL DINNER On February 3rd, The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce will hold their 2012 Annual Dinner at “The Regent” , 6437 Watson Rd., Riverview, Cocktails 6:15pm, and Dinner at 7:15pm. Individual seats are $50, Small Business Packages starting at $150 and Corporate Tables and other sponsorships available beginning at $480. This dinner will feature the “Key Citizen”, “Chairman’s” and “Leadership” Awards as well as the “Ambassador of the Year” and induct incoming Chairman of the Board Robert Bivins, of Bivins & Hemenway, P.A. New Board Members and 2012 Officers are installed. For more information or to register please contact Tammy Bracewell at tbracewell@ brandonchamber.com, or 813-689-1221, ext. 8833.

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 813-689-1221.

February’s FREE Working Smarter Workshops, led by counselors of the Hillsborough County Small Business Information Center, is “How to Apply for an SBA Loan”, on Tuesday, February 14th, 9:30am to 11:30am at the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, 330 Pauls Dr., Brandon. The seminar will teach attendees about various SBA Loans, how to prepare to apply for a business loan, what lenders to look for and how they rate your loan application. Attendees will receive a review of the U.S. Small Business Administration loan programs and guidelines to what SBA looks for in a loan application.

For more information, or to register, please contact Laura Cook at lcook@brandonchamber.com, or 813-689-1221, ext. 8846.

FEBRUARY NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES Business After Hours – Tuesday, February 14th, 5:30pm, hosted by GFS Marketplace, 730 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon.

Networking at Noon- Tuesday, February 21st, 12:00noon, hosted by The Wilder Corporation, 410 S. Ware Blvd., Ste. 102, Tampa.

Coffee Club – Tuesday, February 28th, 8:00am, hosted by Ed Morse Cadillac of Brandon, 11024 Causeway Blvd., Brandon.

successfully – you can’t just show up, pre-show planning and promotions, positioning your value in 10-15 seconds, finding real prospects and qualify your leads, maximizing your time and effectiveness, effective use of giveaways and follow up; making your show leads pay off. Cost for this seminar is $15.00 and lunch is included. For more information or to register please contact Victoria Singletary at vsingletary@brandonchamber.com, or 689-1221, ext.

8836.

2012 HEALTH FAIR Save the date of Saturday, March 3rd, and join us for the Brandon Chamber’s Annual Health Fair at the Campo Family YMCA, 3414 Culbreath Rd., Valrico, 9:00am to 1:00pm. Sponsorship packages are currently available and exhibit space can be purchased for $125 for Brandon Chamber members and $225 for potential members. For more information or to register please contact Crystal Colegrove at ccolegrove@brandonchamber.com or Laura Cook at lcook@brandonchamber.com, or by contacting the Chamber offices, 813-689-1221.

FISHHAWK/BOYETTE LITHIA AREA COUNCIL MEETING Do you work or live in the FishHawk, Boyette or Lithia area? Are you a Brandon Chamber member or are you interested in seeing what the Chamber has to offer? Please join us on Thursday, February 2nd, 12:00noon, at the Palmetto Club to hear about things going on in your area as well as network with a great group of individuals. Lunch is provided for these meetings, please RSVP to Victoria Singletary at vsingletary@brandonchamber.com, or 6891221, ext. 8836.

TALLAHASSEE TREK Join business leaders on a two-day, one night, trip to expose and engage participants to the process of the Florida Legislature and the Executive Brandon during session in Tallahassee. Program will include: Coordinated one-onone meetings with State officials, Meeting with Brandon Area Delegation, Networking Reception and Hob Nob, Briefings on state business issues, Networking among attendees, Lodging and Much more! Tentative agenda will be February 23rd and 24th, $200 for double occupancy $300 for single, for more information please contact Laura Simpson at lsimpson@brandonchamber.com or 813-6891221, ext. 8821.

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS - BRANDON

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

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 Green Iguana, 6264 Winthrop Town Center Blvd., Riverview, Thursday, on February 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, February 8th, 11:45am, at Beef O’Brady’s @ Best Western, 9331 Adamo Dr., Tampa. For more information on YP Brandon or their events please contact Victoria Singletary at vsingletary@brandonchamber. com, or 689-1221, ext. 8836, or Crystal Colegrove at ccolegrove@brandonchamber.com, or 689-1221, ext. 8824.

AAA Solar Source; Anytime Taxi; Champion Trailer Sales & Service; Hanging Around Advertising; Latin Grill; The Park at Bay Plaza; Trennex Enterprises; Ty-Cal, Inc. dba Saladworks; and Visalus Sciences.

ACCELERATE YOUR SALES THROUGH TRADE SHOWS SEMINAR Come join us on Tuesday, February 7th, for a Trade Show seminar where you will find ways to get the sales and profits you want when participating in a trade show. In this interactive workshop you will explore: How to exhibit

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

FEBRUARY RIBBON CUTTINGS Monday, February 6th, 12:00pm, Lincoln Moving & Storage of Tampa, 6507 Harney Rd., Tampa Tuesday, February 7th, 12:00pm, Accurate Tax & Bookkeeping Services, 710 Oakfield Dr., Ste. 201, Brandon Wednesday, February 8th, 4:00pm, ACE Heating & Cooling, 1315 Hobbs St., Tampa Friday, February 10th, 12:00pm, Amani Med Spa, 3440 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico Friday, February 17th, 11:30am, Rapid Refill, 1925 W. Brandon Blvd., Brandon Monday, February 20th, 10:30am, Bodyworks Health and Wellness, 650 E. Bloomingdale Ave., Brandon Wednesday, February 22nd, 12:00pm, Julie’s Walk In Closet, 720 W. Robertson St., Brandon

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON FEBRUARY 2012

11

The Premier Showplace for Talent in Florida

Call 813.752.3141 for Reservations Today!

JANUARY 21 BRIAN ROMAN

One of Canada’s finest entertainers! Roman performs the classics – spanning the Golden Era, ranging from Sinatra to Tom Jones.

Destiny also performs.

JANUARY 27 RALPH ALLOCCO

& SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room.

JANUARY 28 BEAUTIFUL BOBBY BLACKMON & THE B3 BLUES BAND

Bobby Blackmon's career began in a small town not far from the Dallas, Texas area. His Texas blues influence is heard loud ‘n’ proud in his soulful guitar playing. He's worked with the likes of Barbara Lynn, Jimmy Reed, ZZ Hill, Johnny Taylor, Lavelle White and Lou Rawls.

Destiny opens and closes in the Red Rose Dining Room.

JANUARY 28 THE VAN DELLS WITH THE LAS VEGAS SOUNDS

Back by popular demand. This trio is a fireball of entertainment and not to be missed! The Las Vegas Sounds also perform. Dinner served in a supper-club atmosphere in the Red Rose Ballroom.

FEBRUARY 3 BOBBY PALERMO

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Destiny.

FEBRUARY 4 & 17 JOHNNY ALSTON’S - MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

JANUARY 14 THE CONTOURS

Performing their hits, including: Do You Love Me, in the Red Rose Ballroom. Johnny Alston’s Motown Rock ‘n Roll Review also performs. Call for our tiered pricing for this fabulous dinner show!

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

JANUARY 20 BOBBY PALERMO

WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Destiny.

A dynamite crowd pleaser! Plus, Destiny performs before and after the show.

FEBRUARY 10 WALT MADDOX - TRIBUTE TO NAT KING COLE

Walt Maddox performs all of Nat's greatest hits. He started out in the early '60s with The Marcels. His tribute to Nat has performed to sold out crowds nationwide.

FEBRUARY 11 & 25 RALPH ALLOCCO

& SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room.

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

WWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COM

FEBRUARY 11 THE FOUR PREPS - A VALENTINE EVENT

Bring your special someone for a romantic dinner and show. The chart topping group will be performing their hits. The Las Vegas Sounds will also perform in the Red Rose Ballroom.

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

Troy Anderson on trumpet as “Satchmo,” a tribute to Louis Armstrong. Plus, a 3 hour set from The Wonderful World Band with the same instrumentation as Armstrong's bands. Destiny opens and closes.

FEBRUARY 24

BRIAN ROMAN

One of Canada’s finest entertainers! Roman performs the classics – spanning the Golden Era, ranging from Sinatra to Tom Jones.

Destiny also performs.

FEBRUARY 25

THE FABULOUS HUBCAPS

MARCH 9 & 17 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room.

Donʼt forget Valentine’s Day. Enjoy our special Valentine Show on February 11th

Y

Y

– Coming Soon! – MARCH 23-24

DOOWOP WEEKEND EXTRAVAGANZA VI MARCH 24

Come and hear one of the nation’s most sought after oldies’ bands. Their music spans generations BOB RYMAN “THE FIDDLER” of some of the top hits of our time. The Las Vegas APRIL 14 Sounds also perform in the Red Rose Ballroom.

THE JARMELS Dinner served in a supperclub atmosphere.

MARCH 2 BOBBY PALERMO

APRIL 28

“SIMPLY STREISAND”

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Destiny.

MARCH 3 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE Show Guests – ask about our special overnight room rates!

MRS. EVELYN MADONIA OWNER

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON FEBRUARY 2012

13

FOCUS Celebrates Tenth Anniversary Celebration is set for February 16, 2012 at Keel & Curley

Cheryl

Mike

Publisher

Copy Editor

10

Credit Manager

Julie

Account Manager

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

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

From one edition in 2002 to the six we publish monthly now, it’s been a growing and learning experience. Just like any business, we’ve faced challenges and experienced some ups and downs.

Thankfully, mostly ups. But here we are today, still thrilled to be doing what we love - sharing your joys and connecting our community.

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

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

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Angel

Aldo

Account Manager

FEBRUARY 2012 thefocusmagazine.com

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

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

www.focusplantcity.com

FOCUS MAGAZINE

Feature Story

Jared

Advertising Assistant

DeDe

Anthony

Art Director

Account Manager

Tony

Visual Design Specialist

Kelleigh

Account Manager

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

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

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

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

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

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

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON FEBRUARY 2012

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

We have a responsibility to report on as much local news as we can fit into the magazine each month. To do this, we will strive to build our advertising base so we can add more editorial content, as this is what makes that possible.

Here’s a shout out to those loyal advertisers who run ads with us each month. That loyalty makes Focus possible.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We’d like you to be there.

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

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

Our very first cover designed by Brian Taylor.

Focus TV crew on location in Winter Haven

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

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

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FEBRUARY 2012 thefocusmagazine.com

Focus covers all of Plant City & the surrounding areas.

Marti Lofstrom’s inspirational story touched many hearts.

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON FEBRUARY 2012

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Scott

Robinson A Touch of Wellness

S

Interveiw by Cheryl Johnston Photos by Aldo Trevino

cott Robinson has a heart for the Greater Brandon community and a heart for the health of his clients.

His company, A Touch of Wellness, is located at 915 Oakfield Drive, just minutes from the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce office. This is convenient because Scott is an active member, as well as a title sponsor for Young Professionals of Brandon.

According to his friend Leonard Mardis, “Scott is the perfect person for a Focus Spotlight. He has been an instrumental part of the community, hosting benefits for several charities and volunteering to serve those in need.”

He’s a man who is excited about 2012 and the potential for growth of his practice and of opportunities to serve even more this year.

Enjoy getting to know Scott and learn a little more about his business and appreciation for his hometwon.

Focus: We’ve heard some wonderful things about you and your practice, Scott. Can you tell us about your decision to own your own business?

Scott: After resigning from the hospital I started A Touch of Wellness with the help of friend and mentor Henry Hudson, who encouraged me to go into business for myself. While I worked for chiropractors, I felt like I wanted to do more and be able to help people more. However, I wasn’t the decision maker. I wanted to continue having ATOW on the back burner while trying to provide for my family. The last chiropractor I worked for let me go due to a difference in philosophy and my higher command salary. I took my last paycheck and began to plan.

Focus: Would you give us an overview of the personality of your business?

Scott: Laid back and open. Everyone who steps foot inside will feel right at home, I allow everyone to choose their own music to listen to during a massage. Why have them

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FEBRUARY 2012 thefocusmagazine.com

listen to something they don’t want to hear or may not like. Extra time is always taken with each person. I believe that is one of the reasons we were voted “Best Massage” Gold winners in Best of Brandon.

Focus: The logo for A Touch of Wellness is intriguing. Can you explain it?

Scott: Yes, most of the injury cases I worked on early in my career were due to auto accidents or patients with structural problems. I worked closely with chiropractors, who came to respect me for my enthusiasm and determination to achieve the desired results. In time, the idea of combining the clinical, rehabilitative aspect of a treatment facility with a friendly feel was very appealing. That is what the logo indicates. The caduceus represents the clinical aspect, and the Yin/Yang represents the balance in our philosophy.

Focus: What do you enjoy most about you career

work and your work within the community?

Scott: WOW, I enjoy work careerwise by meeting people fromall walks of life, from aerospace engineers to servers in restaurants.

I also enjoy the age range of my clients, from 1 to 92. I love conversing with people from

different backgrounds and believe those conversations make me a more rounded and grounded person. I also enjoy the results of a complicated issue someone may have. Treating injuries is one of the most rewarding things about my career.

The work with the community is something I have always wanted to do. I have been extremely fortunate to be able to have a business, great kids, and a handful of people who care about me. There are so many who don’t have the chance to support their families, or have health or even an opportunity to stand on their own two feet. I am honored to be involved. It’s our responsibility to serve one another.

Focus: Tell us about your family and how did you come to live in this area?

Scott: My daughter Cheyanne is 11 and son Isaiah is five. They are my joy.

I moved to Miami in 2002 from Brooklyn, N.Y. where I was born. I decided to go back to college and applied and was accepted to massage therapy program. During my school years, I worked as a hospital security guard for 44 hours each week. I attended school 30 hours weekly for 14 months. When I applied for the hospital’s massage therapist position, I was denied, even after they had paid tuition reimbursement. That is when I resigned to open my own practice. That practice was destroyed after Hurricane Katrina. I was struggling to find work and worked part time at a spa.

I came to Brandon for a wedding and applied with several chiropractic practices and used the same suit for the interviews.

All offered me positions, one of which I accepted. Weeks later, I moved to Brandon, sold my previous home, and then my ex, Who was pregnant with our son, followed with my daughter.

Focus: What special education and certifications have helped you in your practice?

Scott: I majored in Biology at Corinthian College. I’ve received special training in neuromuscular therapy, kinesiology, clinical pathology, clinical assessment, trigger point therapy, and sports massage. I am also a licensed Kinesio taping practitioner and nutrition consultant. I’ve worked now for six years as a therapist.

Focus: Do you have a few nuggets of wellness advice for the New Year and a healthy life?

Scott: Yes, read the labels on the food you buy. It’s most important to understand what you eat, so you can decide whether you want to eat it or not. What you eat is more important than how much you exercise. Vitamin D is more important than you think it is.

Sugar hides in almost all food, so we should learn to recognize and avoid it. My Facebook page has info that readers might find helpful.

“I am honored to be involved.

It’s our responsibility to serve one another.”

Focus: How do you spend your time when you’re not working?

Scott: I like to spend a lot of time with my kids. We go to amusement parks often. I love to grill and I love to run. That’s my get away and it helps me to defrag my brain.

I try to help out with the PTA at my son’s

attractions like the beach, Busch Gardens, and a short ride to Orlando.

Focus: What will your life look like five years from now?

Scott: I see myself with a self-sustaining business that doesn’t require me to be present all of the time. I see myself preparing my daughter for college, coaching my son’s Little League baseball team, starting a foundation for needy families, and having financial stability so I can enjoy my children before they grow up too fast. I see myself being the owner of a business in this community that can be remembered from the early days up until its total success.

school. I enjoy taking long weekends away, mini-vacations I guess. I also spend a good amount of time with giving back to the community.

Focus: Scott, are there any specific peers, business partners, employees, or clients you would like to acknowledge as we close this interview?

Scott: No person ever gets to where they are without a lot of help. There have been many people there for me when I wasn’t there for myself, when I wanted to call it quits. Special thanks is due: Alicia Lopez, who has kept me on task; to my friend and mentor Leonard Mardis, who showed me what hard work and a little enthusiasm can do; to my good friend Dr. Nicholas Cammarata, who taught me so many things about nutrition that extended my life; to my children, Cheyanne and Isaiah Robinson, who take every single risk with me, even when they don’t know it; to any person who ever trusted me to work on them, who got on my table and supported me; and finally to God, who gave me a chance to right my wrongs.

Focus: Are there particular community projects or efforts that you enjoy more than others?

Scott: YES…YP Brandon has become my passion. I love the fact that young people are making the effort to be seen and heard for who we are, the future of Main Street.

YP Brandon is NOT just for young people; it was founded by young professional to “lead, give, grow”, but it’s open for all ages.

YP sponsors a charity every month during their networking social with proceeds from the social going to the sponsored charity.

A Touch of Wellness donates 5% of our earnings to said charity each month.

The Brandon Chamber has been very helpful with networking opportunities, too.

Focus: What do you enjoy most about life in this community?

Scott: I love the diversity of this community.

It also has a small town feel, which is to say that six degrees of separation is more like three degrees. Most people here “get it” when it comes to supporting each other. Small business has a friend in this community. It also has its own buzz, like a city. Fast paced at times with a little country still remaining.

I also like the close proximity to great FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON FEBRUARY 2012

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BUSINESS PROFILE » FOCUS

AEVERYPERFECT CLEAN TIME WITH IMMACULATE JANITORIAL SERVICE WRITTEN BY: JANICE BUCHHOLZ

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aShunda Mangum always knew there was a calling on her life. It just took her a while to get around to answering it.

Mangum was working in a local plastic surgeon’s office when a client began complaining that she was unable to find someone to clean her home. Mangum volunteered to do the job and it was then she realized that cleaning was what she was meant to do.

Mangum began Immaculate Janitorial Service in August 2000, saying goodbye to working for someone else and welcoming the opportunity to be her own boss. Today she has eight employees and is licensed to perform commercial and residential cleaning in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Polk Counties.

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FEBRUARY 2012 thefocusmagazine.com

While other people may detest the idea of cleaning, putting it off until the last minute, Mangum has always enjoyed the task that many loathe.

“I am the oldest of seven children and I just grew up cleaning. I’ve never had a problem with it,” Mangum said in her Brandon office.

“I can’t focus in a room if it isn’t clean. I just love to do it.”

Mangum’s passion for cleaning is evident in the wording of the company’s slogan, “If it’s dirty, we’ll make it pretty.”

When trying to come up with a name for the business, Mangum stumbled across the word immaculate, its definition being ‘a perfect clean’ and that’s what she wanted to provide her clients each and every time she visited them.

Cheryl Brown is one of those satisfied clients. She began using the service years ago.

A busy executive working long hours, Brown didn’t want to use her time at home cleaning.

After meeting Mangum at a local business seminar, Brown was impressed with Mangum’s enthusiasm and passion for cleaning. She decided to try the service for herself and now can’t imagine her home with Mangum’s special touch.

“She is amazing,” Brown said. “She does a great job, even when I ask her to do something out of the norm. If I have something going on and need to switch my days, she’s flexible. “I thought it would be odd to have someone in my home because it’s such an intimate space, but she respects my home and does such a great job. It’s a blessing.”

Mangum doesn’t do it all by herself. She credits her team for the longevity of her business. In fact, the business has managed to be immune from turbulent financial times that have claimed many area enterprises.

Mangum is proud her business was nominated for Brandon Small Business of

the Year in 2010 and 2011.

“I just thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” Mangum said of being able to maintain her business while others weren’t as successful. “I have followed my passion.”

This passion is one that Chuck Knowles, a recently added client, admires and appreciates. The husband and father of a nine-year-old said with he and his wife both working full-time jobs, cleaning was taking its toll on the family.

“LaShunda gets it right the first time,” Knowles said. “It takes the stress away from having to divide who is going to do what in the house. “It feels great to walk into a home that smells fresh and clean.”

Mangum is thankful to her many clients because she realizes there are many cleaning businesses available.

“I think we provide a high level of quality of service,” Mangum said. “I love what I do. I am the ‘Queen of Clean.’ ” For more information Mangum may be reached at lashunda@wecleantampabay.com or 813-506-4156.

ENTERTAINMENT » DINING PROFILE

RYUU I

JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE

Fried Rice! Available Every Dinner (5pm ‘til close) and All Day Saturday and Sunday

WRITTEN BY: CHERYL JOHNSTON

And another: Sushi Thursday For $5 Sushi Rolls... Choose From a Florida Roll, Japanese Bagel Roll, Tampa Roll, The Fire Cracker Roll, A Double J Roll Or A Spicy Roll (Tuna, Salmon Or Conch). Each Roll Is $5 on Monday and Thursday... All Day

f you haven’t been to Ryuu Japanese Steak House, do so - and soon. For a fun and healthy dining experience in a casual upscale setting, Ryuu is sure to become your new favorite place.

Just ask regulars, Joel and Rosie Marcano, who dine there several times a week. Rosie said, “Charles, one of the servers, taught us about sushi and now we love it.” Joel offered, “Customer service is first and foremost in importance to us and Ryuu has it. They make us feel welcome and loved. We’re from the Spanish culture and hospitality and food are how we share. Ryuu makes theirs with ‘amore’. “ Located in the Brandon Town Center Mall, Ryuu offers entertainment and dining around a teppanyaki table for the whole family to experience. The restaurant seats 140 people with booths for those who want an

intimate setting and 14 teppan tables where diners can enjoy the entertaining tableside cooking by Japanese chefs on small grills.

Outdoor dining is also available.

Owner Robert Smith designed the interior to be a more contemporary setting than the traditional Japanese steakhouse restaurant.

The interior is impressive with black granite tabletops surrounding the grills, a completely glass floor-to-ceiling wine cooler and glass enclosed waterfall, trendy red light shades and a remarkable LED optic light fixture over the large sushi bar area. Even the wall colors of “Red Red Wine” and “Vineyard

Green” exude health.

That full service bar offers an all day happy hour and daily drink specials, making it a popular place for friends old and new to gather. Additionally, more than 40 sushi selections are offered, freshly made to order.

This includes sashimi and nigiri, along with specialty rolls such as the popular Volcano roll, Florida roll, and the Lollipop roll.

Another powerful first impression of Ryuu is the cleanliness. It’s an important factor to Smith, who is in the restaurant every day and knows how much work is involved, especially when much of the cooking is done tableside on the grills. What’s even more impressive is the cleanliness of the kitchen area.

Smith’s goal is to serve fresh, healthy food for reasonable prices and in such a way that diners will feel like they’ve treated themselves to a special occasion. “We’re in the

Julie Hasting, who takes her family and friends to Ryuu regularly, explained why.

“With the ‘Kids Eat Free’ special on Tuesdays and with the amount of food we’re served, it’s a very affordable family night. We love Ryuu!”

And you and yours will, too. By the way, did you know that Ryuu, which sounds like “loo” is the Japanese word for dragon?

Now you do! Check it out and make it soon.

Healthy food, great service and entertaining fun, in style and fairly priced.

INFORMATION 773 BRANDON TOWN CENTER MALL BRANDON, FLORIDA 33511 PHONE 813.438.5934 FAX 813.438.5936 WEB RYUUJAPANESESTEAKHOUSE.COM HOURS OF OPERATION: LUNCH (BOOTH & BAR) M-F 11:00AM - 5:00PM LUNCH (TEPPAN TABLES, BOOTH & BAR) SATURDAY & SUNDAY NOON-5PM DINNER (TEPPAN TABLES, BOOTH & BAR) MONDAY - THURSDAY 5-10PM FRIDAY & SATURDAY 5-11PM SUNDAY 5-9PM NOTE: TEPPAN TABLES CLOSE 30 MINUTES PRIOR TO CLOSING

hospitality business,” he said, “and we want to please our guests so much that they become one of our family of regulars. Meeting and getting to know so many wonderful people is my favorite part of restaurant ownership.”

Dinner menu favorites include the Sirloin & Shrimp and the Scallops, and for dessert it’s the Fried Ice Cream or Crème Brule.

Here’s an example of reasonable and DELICIOUS: Typhoon Combo Dinner For Two Only $29... includes 8oz Sirloin, 6oz Chicken and 6oz Shrimp PLUS Soup, Salad, Noodles with Shrimp Appetizer, Vegetables And FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON FEBRUARY 2012

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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

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1 »

Contempo Spa

TM

2909 James Redman Parkway • 813-754-0212

SAY “I LOVE YOU” WITH CONTEMPO SPA!

Vegetable Gardening in Florida Bloomingdale Regional Library Sponsored by the Master Gardeners of the Hillsborough County Extension 6:30-8 p.m.

813-273-3652

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3

» 2012 Annual Dinner The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce Florida Communications Group & Tampa Electric Company 6:15 p.m.

Reservations and tickets: 813-689-1221

MONDAYS, FEBRUARY 6, 13 » Pixie Painters Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Organization Learn to be creative painters; paint on different surfaces.

3- 4:00 p.m.

Call 813-685-8888 for details.

WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 9, 10 »

Stages Productions presents The Velveteen Rabbit Center Place for Fine Arts & Civic Organizations Margery Williams’ delightful story about toys whose dreams come to life.

Tickets: $6.00 for members, $7.00 for non-members.

Call Center Place for performance times: 813-6858888.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11

Free 6 Month

Contempo Spa Select Membership For a friend, family member or loved one when you become a Contempo Spa Loyalty Member!

HURRY! OFFER ENDS FEB 29TH 22

FEBRUARY 2012 thefocusmagazine.com

» ECHO Yard Sale Benefit All Proceeds will purchase food for pantry ECHO - 507 N. Parsons Avenue, Brandon 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

ECHO phone: 813-685-0935

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11

» Boy Scouts of America Scouting for Food Bags will be dropped off at homes on 11th and bags of food will be picked up the 18th Call Molly Brown, Exec. Director at 813-210-1788.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18

» 21st Annual Wild Dame Night 2012 Center Place for Fine Arts & Civic Organization “Mother Goose” Is On the Loose! by Stages Production Tickets must be purchased in advance. $50 per person - Non-Refundable.

Social time at 6 p.m. with fine dinning to follow.

813-685-8888.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25

» Brandon Arts Council Arty Party Membership drive 7-10 pm Center Place for Fine Arts & Civic Organization $15 at door/ $25 purchases annual membership.

Info: Anne Drewry, 813-655-2773

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25

» 4-H and Open Horse Show Rogers Arena - W. Sam Allen Rd. Thonotosassa 8 a.m. - All Day No Fee To Watch Fee for entry of each class.

Additional info: Kate Waterford, 813-220-6056 or hillsborough4h.ifas.ufl.edu

SATURDAY, MARCH 1 » Savvy Seniors Health Lecture and Bingo The Bridges Clubhouse 11350 Bloomingdale Ave., Riverview 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Reservations: 813-653-1065 Free event.

SATURDAY, MARCH 3 » Brandon Health Fair Campo Family YMCA 3414 Culbreath Road, Valrico 9 a.m. -1 p.m.

Call 813-684-1371 for more info.

WE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS AND EBT NOW OPEN ON SUNDAYS 10-6

We wish you a very Happy New Year!

Plan ahead for Superbowl Cookouts and Don’t forget Valentines Day February 14!

Deer Processing Available call ahead SPECIAL CUTS for Ribeyes, T-bone,Porterhouse, Filet Mignon, New York Strip, ROAST CUTS- Pork Tenderloin, Beef Tenderloin, Sirloin, Prime Rib, Bottom Round, Boston Butt ALSO AVAILABLE: Pork Chops, Bacon, Sausage, Hamburger, Cubed Steak, Alligator, Rabbit, Goat, Black Canyon, Black Angus Jams, jellies, relishes, chicken, beefbrisket, fresh and frozen vegetables, deli meats and fresh Plant City strawberries.

CLEMSCUSTOMMEATSLLC.COM JOIN US ON FACEBOOK

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON FEBRUARY 2012

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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 • www.Stowersfh.com

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 Benefits designed to provide a higher level of funeral care before, during, and after the service, all backed by a 100% Service Guarantee.