FOCUS Brandon 08-02

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON OCTOBER 2014

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FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON OCTOBER 2014

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can’t miss event

17TH ANNUAL HALLOWEEN HORRIBLES PARADE

Who said the ghosts and goblins only come out at night? Costumed munchkins are invited to take part in the annual Halloween parade on Sunday, October 26 at 3 p.m. Children ages 3-10 will enjoy lots of treat stations hosted by area civic clubs and businesses along the route. Route begins outside Center Place Fine Arts and Civic Association (619 Vonderburg Dr., Brandon) There is no charge to attend, but tickets are required. Tickets can be purchased at Center Place.

For more information, call 813-685-8888

OCTOBER 02 THURSDAY ECHO’s Designer Trunk Show The Barn at Winthrop | 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

11349 Bloomingdale Ave., Riverview Support ECHO by attending and purchasing designer jeans, shoes, jackets, dresses, and accessories.

For more information, contact Kathy Collins at 813-6850935.

04 SATURDAY Charity Thrift Sale ECHO of Brandon | 8 a.m.

507 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon Help ECHO refresh its stock and raise money by purchasing discounted overstock clothes and small household items.

For more information, contact Joni Damico at 813-685-0935.

Holiday Cards for Troops Center Place Fine Arts and Civic Association 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

619 Vonderburg Dr., Brandon Show your support by making handmade holiday cards for our troops. The decorated cards will be sent to our deployed service members. The soldiers will be able to write a sentiment to their loved ones inside each card. No cost to attend, donations appreciated. Food and drinks will be provided and raffle tickets will be sold. Ages 16+ only.

For more information, contact Center Place at 813-685-8888.

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WEDNESDAY

18 SATURDAY Charity Thrift Sale ECHO of Brandon | 8 a.m.

507 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon Help ECHO refresh its stock and raise money by purchasing discounted overstock clothes and small household items.

For more information, contact Joni Damico at 813-685-0935.

23 THURSDAY Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year Awards Gala Sheraton Tampa East Hotel | 6 p.m.

10221 Princess Palm Ave., Tampa The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year Awards Gala honors small businesses that have demonstrated leadership, positive growth, development, creativity, integrity, and commitment to community services in categories of 1-5 Employees, 6-15 Employees, 16+ Employees, and Home Based Business.

For more information, contact clemar@brandonchamber.com.

25 SATURDAY Charity Thrift Sale ECHO of Brandon | 8 a.m.

507 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon Help ECHO refresh its stock and raise money by purchasing discounted overstock clothes and small household items.

For more information, contact Joni Damico at 813-685-0935.

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TUESDAY

Seffner Community Business Expo North Brandon Family YMCA | 4 to 8 p.m.

3097 S. Kingsway Rd., Seffner The Community Business Expo is an opportunity to celebrate and learn more about the businesses and organizations that make this area a great place to live.

For more information, contact Pat Magruder at 813-654-3100.

11 SATURDAY

4th Annual Indoor/Outdoor Art Festival Center Place Fine Arts and Civic Association 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

619 Vonderburg Dr., Brandon Sponsored by the Brandon League of Fine Arts, view stunning artwork and crafts created by local artists. All items will be onsale. Shop early for Christmas!

For more information, call 813-685-0712.

Charity Thrift Sale ECHO of Brandon | 8 a.m.

507 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon Help ECHO refresh its stock and raise money by purchasing discounted overstock clothes and small household items.

For more information, contact Joni Damico at 813-685-0935.

17 FRIDAY Arts Power Theater presents: Harry the Dirty Dog Center Place Fine Arts and Civic Association | 10:15 a.m.

619 Vonderburg Dr., Brandon The public is invited to attend an exciting show based on the popular book. Themes include family relationships and language and communication skills.

For more information, contact Center Place at 813-685-8888.

· Purses · · Shoes · · Jewelry · · Strawberry Accessories ·

Holiday Cards for Troops Kid’s Night Center Place Fine Arts and Civic Association 6 to 8 p.m.

619 Vonderburg Dr., Brandon Stampin’ Up! Demonstrator Susan Saunders will lead children 8-15 in “Thank You” card making for our troops.

Children will have the opportunity to write personal messages inside the cards. Event is free, but space is limited and reservations must be made by Monday, October 6.

For more information, contact Center Place at 813-685-8888.

01 SATURDAY

· Designer clothing ·

NOVEMBER

Monday - Saturday: 10am - 9pm & Sunday: 12:30pm - 5:30pm

8th Annual Chalk Walk and Art Fest Center Place Fine Arts and Civic Association | 1 to 3 p.m.

619 Vonderburg Dr., Brandon Join us for this special community event. Create your own masterpieces. Activities, demonstrations, performances, face painting, music and more. Each artist will receive a chalk box, a sidewalk section, and fun items from local businesses. The event will also feature art stations set up by the Greater Brandon Arts Council. Event is free but tickets are required.

For more information, call 813-685-8888.

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Golde and Tevye, played by MONTI award winners Judy Westcott and Todd Dupriest, share a somber moment after learning the Russians are evicting them from their village.

“FIDDLER ON THE ROOF” PRODUCTION WOWS ATTENDEES AT THE JAMES MCCABE THEATER

BY CHERYL JOHNSTON

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he Village Players’ recent presentation of “Fiddler on the Roof ” was a huge success and one perfectly timed for Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, less than a month away.

Just ask Judy Hatia, who thoroughly enjoyed each of the six evening performances between September 5 and 26, 2014. The retired first grade teacher attended the final production with friends John and Barbara Port.

The two women taught for 27 years at Seffner Elementary and enjoy anything involving children.

“Isn’t this just wonderful?” said Hatia.

“Can you believe how much talent is on that stage?”

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The musical saga, based on Joseph Stein’s libretto, presents the music of Jerry Bock with lyrics by Sheldon Harnick. In 1905 Imperial Russia, Jews could live only in settlements like The Pale. Tevye, played perfectly by Todd DuPriest, is the father of five daughters and husband to Golde, played by Lisa Westcott. He is determined to maintain family and faith traditions, even as outside influences impact their lives.

Each daughter persuades him to accept their love interests rather than settling for arranged marriages. Ultimately, the community changes when the Tzar evicts the Jews from their village.

In her first contribution at the James McCabe Theater, Ann Wood played

keyboard for smooth scene transitions.

As to her love for the “awesome story,” her hope was “that audience members could get past the beautiful music enough to really understand what happened to the Jews during that time period.”

“Fiddler” is a family story, as evidenced by the number of parents who brought their children for a dose of Broadway culture. And indeed, families such as the DuPriests, the Hansens, the Olneys and the Stacys made their enthusiasm known as cast members.

Thanks to the Joshua Generation, this Fiddler production included plenty of talented students, who ranged from elementary age through high school. Lisa Wescott, the acting/voice coach who played Golde, is Regional Director of the group. Visit www. thenewjoshuageneration.com to involve your children.

The intimacy of the historic theater, built as the Valrico Civic Building during an early 1900s railway-inspired boom, connected the audience instantly the fully engaged company’s opening number, “Tradition.” Attendees also sang along with the more recognizable songs such as “Matchmaker, Matchmaker,” “If I Were a Rich Man,” and “Sunrise, Sunset.”

Renamed for a long-term director of community productions, the James McCabe Theater at 506 N. 5th Street became a historic landmark in 1994.

Renovations for the 100-year season in 2015 are still underway.

Regarding the talent, a number of performers in this Fiddler production are MONTI Award recipients. The acronym stands for “Marking Outstanding and Noteworthy Theatrical Initiative.”

This effort spearheaded in 2006 by veteran community theater performer Carlton Jones recognizes outstanding contributions in 20 categories encompassing all aspects of theatrical production and promotion.

No doubt, this cast and crew, directed

by Domin Pazo, motivated the audience to anticipate future productions. For two weekends beginning October 17, the troupe will present “The Legend of Frankenstein,” local playwright Carlton Jones’ adaptation of the Mary Shelley story. “Scrooge & Marley: A Christmas Carol” performances begin December 5.

The theater’s centennial season includes: “Noises Off !”(comedy) in February, “Auntie Mame” in April, “Steel Magnolias” in June, “The Wizard of Oz” in August, “The Diary of Anne Frank” in October and “Rent” in December.

To purchase the incredibly affordable tickets in advance, learn more about involvement, or contribute taxdeductible funds to preserve this local treasure, call 813-643-8292 or visit www. thevillageplayersvalrico.com. Donations should be mailed to Gail Pierce, c/o Village Players, 101 W. Morgan St., Brandon FL 33510. No formal membership is required to audition or volunteer.

Talented vocalists and actresses (L-R) Melody Brown, Alyssa Yates, and Mikaela DuPriest played Tevye’s eldest daughters Tzeitel, Hodel, Chava, who were determined to marry their true loves rather than have matchmaker-arranged marriages.

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON OCTOBER 2014

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PARADE YOUR PINK

BY CHERYL JOHNSTON

O

ctober is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the good folks at Total Imaging - Parsons have planned a special outreach for the first Saturday morning.

The public is invited on October 4 from 10 - 11:30AM to experience and enjoy a time of encouragement and education in the huge parking area at 427 South Parsons across the street from the Brandon Regional Hospital.

“Parade Your Pink” event displays will encircle the space and representatives from referring doctors, support groups and vendors for products and services will be on hand to explain, answer questions and offer help.

“Parade Your Pink” will also feature

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OCTOBER 2014 thefocusmagazine.com

guest speakers, giveaways, free food and fun. Enjoy tasty treats from Allegria Italiano, Butterscotch Lane, Chickfil-A, Marco’s Pizza, and Tijuana Flats.

Explore support options with Dr. Kimberly Giffard, Tampa Bay Radiation

Oncology, Florida Aesthetics, Shapes, Aphrodite’s Jewelry Box, Perfect Pieces Boutique, and Divine Designs Floral.

“The arrangement is symbolic of the full circle journey that breast cancer survivors make in their return to health, said Nicole Jeremie, event coordinator and Marketing Director for Total Imaging - Parsons. “Their struggle becomes their opportunity to help others who need support.”

Jeremie believes it’s important to engage with and support the small businesses in our area in this battle that affects so many.

“We wouldn’t have what we have here in Brandon without them!” she explained. “How many people’s lives have been touched by this form of cancer?

Too many. That’s why we decided this year to focus on the help available in our own community. We want to go back to awareness…for the causes, cure and support and product options right here in Brandon.”

“God bless them for giving away what they do in helping those struggling with breast cancer,” Jeremie said of the local professionals, suppliers and vendors.

Are you a survivor? Are you battling cancer yourself ? Have you lost someone to the disease? Do you need support during your journey through this illness?

Would you like to help others who could use encouragement and a helping hand?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, please come out to the “Parade Your Pink” event.

All proceeds will benefit Lisa’s Pink Petals of Hope Inc., a 501(c)3 organization with a mission to provide support services to individuals diagnosed with breast cancer.

Carol Poole, the non-profit’s founder shared, “We take pride in our foundation to provide the utmost supportive services

to our recipients. Our services include, but are not limited to financial assistance for those impacted by financial hardship, pre/post mastectomy garments, monthly support group activities, survivor connections and facial makeovers.”

Poole added, “Most organizations rally around finding the ‘CURE’ someday. Our organization provides IMMEDIATE support.”

There is no set fee for vendor/ supplier participation, but every taxdeductible donation will be appreciated.

Register at the event or for more information, contact Nicole Jeremie, 813.707.4126, or visit Total Imaging at 427 S. Parsons Ave, Suite 100, in Brandon.

Jeremie believes it’s important to engage with and support the small businesses in our area in this battle that affects so many.

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ST. BALDRICK’S CHARITY SHAVE FUNDRAISER

OCT. 31- NOV. 1•9AM-4PM STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL FAIRGROUNDS $5 admission / free parking

BY MORIAH BARNHART

W

hen O’Toole’s Irish Pub in Brandon was purchased by a new owner this year, the vision was to transform the restaurant with new furniture, new paint, bathroom upgrades, and new televisions. While its new owner, Alistair Mitchell, was ready to give the restaurant an updated look, he wasn’t interested in changing traditions. One of those traditions includes an annual pediatric cancer research fundraiser. He proudly upheld the tradition, holding the restaurant’s seventh annual St. Baldrick’s Foundation head-shaving charity event on September 13, 2014.

The St. Baldrick’s Foundation is a volunteer-driven charity that funds promising research for childhood cancer cures. Their head-shaving events began in 2000, and accumulated to over 1,300 events by 2013. Although the loss of life to childhood cancers averages 71 years, in comparison to 15 years to adult cancers), childhood cancer research receives only 4% of federal cancer research funding.

Hope for the children faced with this devastating diagnosis depends largely on privately-funded research. So far, the total amount raised through St. Baldrick’s Foundation is an unbelievable $152,325,635. This has been allotted to 780 research grants at 329 institutions in 22 countries. In the world of childhood cancer research, these funding measures offer immeasurable hope. It is important that each and every community take part in helping to find a cure. That’s exactly what these community head-shaving events aim to do.

O’Toole’s advertised raffles and giveaways, along with food and drink

specials, on the day of the event. They welcomed about 30 volunteers from the local community and raised almost $13,500! One of the biggest contributors of the event year after year continues to be Team Stephen. The team is a driving force behind this annual fundraiser.

Steve Easton was born with a rare (and often fatal) disorder. He worked at O’Toole’s from its opening until he lost his life in a car accident in 2012.

This cause was so dear to his heart that his family requested donations be made to St. Baldrick’s in lieu of flowers for his funeral. His family and friends honored his memory by ensuring his cause continues. With 19 participants, the team raised $6,791, representing over half the total funds raised! The second largest contributor this year was O’Toole’s own bartender, Brittany Cooper, who now sports a bald head and raised $3,000 for this amazing cause.

Pediatric cancer is the number one killer of children by disease, and September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Not only was this event intended to convey a sense of solidarity with the children who have lost their hair while undergoing chemotherapy, it also raises awareness in the community and raises money to fund childhood cancer treatments and research. If it wasn’t for events like these, the task of raising widespread awareness and raising funds for research would be insurmountable. It is wonderful to see a new owner maintaining this beautiful tradition, and to see the local community pull together each year for such a worthwhile cause.

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9/11/2014 2014 7:26:03 AM FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON OCTOBER

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FIRE RESCUE FOUNDATION

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PUT IN PLACE TO EDUCATE, SUPPORT, AND PROTECT STORY BY: HEATHER DAVIS

O

n average there are over 900 fires a year in just Hillsborough County alone. Out of those fires on average 117 people perish or receive serious injuries due to fires. What can be done to help prevent such tragedies from occurring?

The Hillsborough County Fire Rescue was put in place primarily to preserve and protect life and property by providing quality, timely emergency services as well as enhancing public safety through public education, comprehensive prevention and emergency planning initiatives. The Hillsborough County Fire Rescue was established as an all volunteer force in the 1950’s and since that time has evolved into one of the largest departments in the state of Florida with over 43 fire rescue stations and over 1,100 personnel as well as 150 reserve responders.

Unfortunately tax payers dollars only stretch so far and as a result there are still gaps in what the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue department can provide the public as well as the personnel in education and prevention. This is why the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Foundation is so important. Established just over on year ago, the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Foundation is a 501c3 not-for-profit organization whose purpose is to support the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue by providing funds for education and prevention.

The exact mission of the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue

Foundation is to promote Fire and Life Safety in Hillsborough County, and the professional development, training, and education of members of Hillsborough County Fire Rescue. The Foundation also provides funding to Hillsborough County Fire Rescue to educate, inform and involve the citizens of Hillsborough County in protecting life and property in the event of an emergency. In other words the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Foundation is saving lives. At this time there are only 10-15 such foundations though-out our nation in cities such as New York and Los Angeles. The Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Foundation is the first and only foundation of its kind in the state of Florida.

What services does the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Foundation provide to the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue and to the public? One very important program is the Project S.A.F.E. Program S.A.F.E. stands for smoke alarms for everyone. The purpose of the program is to provide smoke alarms to every home in Hillsborough County without a smoke alarm.

Not only will alarms be provided but they will also be installed and education on fire safety, prevention, and what to do in case of emergency will also be offered. At this time over 3300 alarms have been installed in homes through-out Hillsborough County with a projection of at least 4,000 total to be installed by the end of the year. Many of these fire alarms have been installed in the homes of single women with chilFOCUS FOCUS MAGAZINE MAGAZINE BRANDON BRANDON OCTOBER OCTOBER 2014 2014

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Reserve Responder Scholarship Program: This unique program gives an opportunity to individuals to volunteer in their community and to start a career in fire rescue. These members get a chance to receive free training and work along full time firefighters. The HCFR Foundation seeks opportunities and funding to award scholarships to qualified members of this program, so they can further their education by getting their certification as a firefighter and EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) in order to pursue a full time employment in the fire service. dren. Imagine the potential number of lives that can be saved by just this program alone. This is not the only service provided by the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Foundation. Other important services that are provided are as follows: Public Education: HCFR Foundation in partnership with Hillsborough County Fire Rescue provides public education to all ages by conducting demonstrations and training in all aspects of fire and life safety.

Public Service Announcements: HCFR Foundation helps increase safety through Public Safety Announcement and multilingual, multimedia fire and life safety outreach campaigns.

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CPR/AED Training: HCFR Foundation in partnership with American Heart Association and Hillsborough County Fire Rescue helps to share life-saving skills with schools, organizations and individuals. Citizens can learn how to keep strangers and loved ones alive until medical help arrives.

Summer Youth Academy: HCFR Foundation helps support the Summer Youth Academy hosted by fire rescue. Local youth ages 14-17 years old practice in a two week program where firefighting skills are used as the vehicle for engaging youth in series of classroom and interactive, structured activities designed to build character, develop leadership skills, and enhance vocational career.

Museum Project: HCFR Foundation is supporting the efforts to preserve the history of Hillsborough County Fire Rescue. Since its beginnings in the 1950s as an all-volunteer force and hiring its first full-time career firefighters in 1973, the department has steadily evolved into one of the largest, most progressive departments in the State of Florida.

We want to honor this volunteer force that served Hillsborough County back in the day and sometimes gave their lives doing so. We want to help preserve this great history by raising funds to open a museum to show some of the equipment, uniforms, and images to share the lives of these past heroes. The museum is also going to be used to educate the public in fire and life safety.

Peer Support: HCFR Foundation supports the efforts of taking care of our first responders by funding the Peer Support Unit (PSU) and working in conjunction with the department Chaplain. First responders put their personal safety on the line every day in order to protect and serve our communities. This intense and highly charged environment in which they work often impacts them and their families in a negative manner. Not only do first responders regularly sacrifice their health and well-being on behalf of public safety, but they are subjected to professional stressors that can be overpowering to them and their families, ultimately setting them up for dysfunction and failure.

We need to take care of our first responders in order for them to take care of us.

Firefighter for a day: HCFR Foundation supports a program that provides training for corporations and businesses in the areas of team-building and leadership development. Through a series of hands-on firefighting exercises, HCFR provide businesses with a unique and revolutionary way to enhance team-building, leadership, problem solving, decision making, and communications skills.

Burn Camp: HCFR Foundation supports a burn camp hosted by the Children’s Burn

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Foundation of Florida. It is a yearly camp for children that have been burned. This camp allows these children to realize that they are not the only ones living with the scars of their past tragedies. The camp provides an environment where children can share their feelings about being burned, realizing that others have had similar experiences, forget that they look different, and know that they are “someone special”.

Canteen/Vehicle Trailer: HCFR Foundation will support Hillsborough County Fire Rescue by raising funds to help in the operation of a canteen truck/trailer to be use at major incident scenes. This unit will provide emergency workers with food and drinks during long and prolonged incidents.

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Another important service the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Foundation provides for the HCFR personnel is the annual Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Awards Ceremony. This ceremony gives cause and occasion to celebrate and honor the men and women of fire rescue. This year’s event will take place on Friday, November 7th, from 6:00-11:00pm at The Regent, 6437 Watson Rd., Riverview. In preparation for this annual event through the course of the year once every quarter one fireman, paramedic, and dispatcher are chosen based on submissions made by fellow co-workers.

The submissions are made because the individual has gone above and beyond in his or her service to the public in relation to their job. At the end of the year four individuals from

each category (fireman, paramedic, and dispatcher) have been chosen to be honored at the Awards Ceremony, but out of the four from each category only one will be chosen to be the Fireman, Paramedic, and Dispatcher of the year. This is a very high honor indeed and gives proper recognition to those who deserve it based on the actions and services they provide to our community. The Awards Ceremony is funded each year by sponsorships from companies and individuals who donate.

Always open to the public,this year the Awards Ceremony will be offering with the price of ticket admission ($30.00/single, $50.00/ couple) food, one drink ticket and plenty of entertainment in the form of a DJ, music, and dancing. The Awards Ceremony will also include the Honor Guard, Presentation of Colors and a Memory of the Fallen as well as the Awards presentation to the honored men and women who save lives every day in the service of their jobs.

Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Foundation is run by seven volunteer board of directors. Ronnie Rivera is the President of the foundation. Mr. Rivera is a fifteen year firefighter and paramedic veteran.

He was presented with the idea to begin this foundation in order to support the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue. His passion for doing this is represented by the following words, “I believe in saving lives and

I want to make a difference. I have seen the need we have for these programs that provide education, training, and prevention.”

To find out more about the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Foundation and its services as well as to find out ways that you can help support or donate to the foundation please visit www.hcfrfoundation.org. To contact the HCFR Foundation for more information regarding the 2014 Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Awards Ceremony you may contact Ronnie Rivera at 813-209-0097.

The 2014 Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Awards Nominees are as follows: 2014 Firefighters of the Quarter Richard Rigdon Chris Fallin Fred Morello Jeremy Tabak 2014 Paramedic of the Quarter Mike Murphy Colin Tracey Kim Rogers Katherine Platts 2014 Telecommunicators of the Quarter Sarah Elliott Samantha Martinez Sarah Elliott Clarissa Gardner

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Website: www.plantcity.org Facebook: PlantCityPigJam Phone: 813-754-3707 800-760-2315 Fax: 813-752-8793 E-mail: amy@plantcity.org FOCUS FOCUS MAGAZINE MAGAZINE BRANDON BRANDON OCTOBER OCTOBER 2014 2014

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Steve Holland and Ken Anderson are co-owners of Brandon Auto Salvage

BRANDON AUTO SALVAGE

BY AMANDA DECK

M

uch can be accomplished when two people united by a common goal come together. That’s what happened when lifelong friends Steve Holland and Ken Anderson decided to become business partners and purchased Brandon Auto Salvage back in 1971. Originally just a stockyard for used automobile parts, Holland and Anderson have transformed the business into a one stop shop for all your vehicle needs.

“We’ve built this business from the ground up, experiencing along the way how the world economy and the internet affects our salvage industry.” said Holland.

Brandon Auto Salvage still houses hundreds of thousands of used parts for foreign and domestic vehicles in its extensive inventory warehouse. From motors and transmissions, to computers and radios, Brandon Auto Salvage can assist you with any repair, large or small.

Need an entire door or bumper

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replaced? Brandon Auto Salvage has you covered with approximately 950 salvaged vehicles of all makes and models stored on the property for your choosing.

Brandon Auto Salvage also offers new aftermarket auto parts on their website. Parts such as radiators, condensers, headlamps, tail lamps, door handles, window motors, mirrors, and much more can be shipped to you at major discounts.

In today’s Internet era, automobile parts can be purchased and shipped across the country at low prices by almost anyone. However, Brandon Auto Salvage stands out from online competitors because they can install new or used automobile parts onsite. Furthermore, all used parts sold

by Brandon Auto Salvage have been thoroughly cleaned and tested before being placed in inventory. Finally, unlike most companies, Brandon Auto Salvage offers warranties on most parts for up to two years. You can buy with confidence

when you call on Brandon Auto Salvage.

Holland added, “We offer you the ability to purchase a used, rebuilt, or new part according to your needs.”

Even if your vehicle doesn’t need a new part, Brandon Auto Salvage is still at your service. Touch up your car’s paint job or repair damage from a collision at their on-site body shop.

“My 2001 Mercedes E-Class was backed into. I brought it to Brandon Auto Salvage for repair. They had my car for two days and did an amazing job! They replaced the bumper…and painted to match the car. Anytime I have needed something for my car—body work, mechanical, or parts—the staff at Brandon Auto Salvage has always been professional, courteous, and competitive,” said a satisfied customer.

You also can trust Brandon Auto Salvage’s experienced technicians in the service center. They perform everything from alignments, brake repairs, and routine tune-ups.

“We’re really up to date when it comes to our service department,” said Holland. “Our staff is very knowledgeable and all have great personalities. It’s great to work with people who have good attitudes and work hard to help each other and our customers.”

INFORMATION BRANDON AUTO SALVAGE

3159 State Road 60 E Valrico, Florida 33594 Phone: 813-689-8131 Web: www.brandonauto.com

Looking to make some extra cash on your damaged vehicle? Brandon Auto Salvage purchases wrecked, salvaged, junk cars, and used vehicles. Call the office or email photos for a price quote.

Brandon Auto Salvage is not only known around town for its standout service, but the company is also very active in the community. A Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce member, Brandon Auto Salvage is highly involved with the local fire departments and assists in training area firefighters.

The business also supports the local economy with its 25 employees.

“I was raised in Brandon and love being a part of this community,” said Holland. “I just love being able to help where I can.”

For more information on the services Brandon Auto Salvage offers and to browse their current used parts inventory, check out their website below.

An aerial view of Brandon Auto Salvage, located on State Road 60 E in Valrico.

PRIME LOCATION WITH EXCELLENT ACCESS!

Office suites start at $400 and are inclusive

1 Mont Free R h ent (call fo r det ails)

(electricity, water, wireless internet)

Tenants have 24/7 access as well as use of the meeting rooms (upon availability).

Short term (6 mos) leases are available as well as longer terms (1-2 years).

Perfect for home-based businesses who have outgrown their home office or for larger companies who would like a presence in the Greater Brandon area without having to open a full office!

PLEASE CALL 813-689-1221 FOR MORE INFORMATION. FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON OCTOBER 2014

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ANNIE QUINN ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

BY OLIVIA GOTTMAN

A

nnie Quinn , the libero for Durant High School’s volleyball team exemplifies a leader both on and off the court. She has been playing volleyball at Durant for the past four years, as well as playing club volleyball during the spring. When she isn’t playing volleyball she is focused on academics and is volunteering her time as Vice President of the community service club, Students All Connected.

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Quinn, a senior, has been doing big things this season on the court.

The sport has instilled many thoughtful qualities that has built her leadership role on the team today. “I learned to take people’s criticism and advice as well as give it.” Quinn stated.

She understands her team mates and helps them overcome their struggles during a game. On the court she has learned how to stay calm mentally under

pressure. When down by a few points it is her job to get that one perfect pass to set up a score. She always tries to stay focused on the team’s goal; when she is in the zone not one ball will get past her.

She knows her honest attitude affects her team mates and because of this it is clear she is successful at keeping the girls focused and working together. Quinn feels they will always need to mesh as one in order to get the victory.

Quinn’s domain is on defense. Her secret to success; “I try to make sure I’m in the right position and try to not over think it. The way to go is to be simple minded and to not psych myself out.”

She is a girl to watch this season with already 125 digs. She continues to be a true asset to the Durant team.

Quinn thought one of the team’s greatest accomplishments so far was beating Strawberry Crest. “The team has achieved so much already this season and it was awesome to win against Strawberry Crest. They were a very challenging and competitive team to play but we came together and pulled it off. “ The hard work and dedication she puts into volleyball clearly shines brightly through Annie Quinn. Her positive attitude and contagious smile proves that even at 5’4’’ you can play a big role in a predominately “tall” sport.

Congratulations Annie Quinn for being this month’s Athlete of the Month! You deserve it.

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON OCTOBER 2014

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Kelsey Lee and Rayna Light

GOLDEN CITY GYMNASTICS IS TOPS W

BY SHERRI ROBINSON

hile some kids dream of being a princess or a police officer others dream of being gymnasts. At Golden City Gymnastics dreams are being turned into reality with their competitive team TOPS. TOPS is Talent Opportunity Program for ages 7-10 and is the training ground for future Olympians.

The pre-program is Tiny TOPS for ages 4-6 yrs. old which allows trainers to spot who has the talent for the fast track program.

Though the gymnasts start at a very young age, those who become part of TOPS love the sport. Without that love it would be difficult to give the time and dedication it takes to succeed in the program. Training consists of 5 days a week and approximately 15 to 20 hrs.

One day of training is for TOPS and the remaining 4 are regular training so they gain a certain set of skills in physical strength and conditioning. Vault, bars, beam and floor are all included.

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TOPS is a very serious competitive team, however the coaches “try not to make it so serious and want them to just do their best whether they qualify or not.” What a great way to support a successful team.

Training is not all that is part of success. Making sure each competitor gets good nutrition is key. They are encouraged to eat healthy foods instead of pressuring them with food restriction that causes bad body image and eating disorders. Very impressive.

Last year was the 2nd year of competing. Two of the gymnasts, Rayna Light - level 9 and Kelsey Lee –level 7, did amazingly well qualifying for a national training camp in Texas.

Golden City has year round training, but the competition season is only from June to October. National testing is during the month of October.

Golden City Gymnastics is 10 yrs. old and new compared to other gyms.

The TOPS program is just a few years

old but is doing phenomenally well.

They are “just going to train and see where it goes.” That is a great attitude to take in such a competitive sport. It seems to be serving them well. They have quite a great track record producing two gymnasts who have gone on to compete at a college level with University of Iowa and Cornell University, one with a full ride. Congrats!

Gymnastics is a great sport to nurture a child’s desire to be active and focus their competitive spirit into something they can be proud of.

The coaches and staff at Golden City Gymnastics are there to help them realize their dreams.

For more information on the Golden City Gymnastics, classes, coaches and staff go to www.goldencitygymnastics. com or call 813-685-7770. They can also be reached by email on the website.

Thank you Shauna Swartz for sharing your passion for gymnastics with me.

...the coaches “try not to make it so serious and want them to just do their best whether they qualify or not.”

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON OCTOBER 2014

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Sangria

TAMPA AREA RESTAURANT MAKES A HOME IN BRANDON

Ciccio’s plates of food began to appear before me all made by the skillful hands of an Executive Chef who took the time to come out and introduce herself. Each mouthful created an explosion of flavors within my mouth. I was sold from the first bite.

Ciccio’s offers three dining experiences that all beg to be tried.

Pop-in for lunch, Sit-down for dinner, and Lean-back for brunch. Lunch is fast paced and very busy. You can expect to order at the counter, have a seat and wait for your food to be brought to you.

Dinner is more casual where you are waited on and served at your table. The bar is open serving beer and wine as well as sangrias. Weekend brunch is a casual affair where you can expect music in the courtyard, mimosas, and bloody mary’s along with breakfast and lunch selections.

The Ciccio menu is separated by three main categories. The first being wraps with tasty fillings and fresh homemade sauces to choose for dipping . The second category are bowls where you choose your base of either yellow, brown, or sticky rice, farro, asian noodles, or spaghetti squash (a must try). From that point you choose your flavor from an endless variety of delicious selections.

OFFERING FRESH AND HEALTHY FOOD

BY HEATHER DAVIS

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iccio Restaurant Group (CRG) is a family owned and operated set of restaurants in Tampa. The names of which may be familiar; Green Lemon, The Lodge, Daily Eats, and the newest edition Fresh Kitchen. Recently I had the opportunity to dine at another restaurant owned by CRG named after the owners father Frank Ciccio Lanza.

Ciccio Cali which is prounounced (cheecheeo’) has evolved into three separate restaurants. Two locations are in Tampa and the newest location is in Brandon within the Winthrop Town Centre. Ciccio opened officially just this year on March 6th and has been going strong since.

The concept behind Ciccio’s dining is

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to offer only the freshest and healthiest options available. For example recently all Ciccio locations have switched out all regular fountain soda drinks with all natural organic soda products. “We want to look out for our customers and their health.” said Matt Lanza, partner at CRG. “This is something we truly believe in and that fits in well with our company culture.” Although the food at Ciccio’s is healthy do not think for one moment that taste has been sacrificed.

Ciccio’s as well as the other CRG restaurants work and cook under the direction of a Culinary Director using the skills within the restaurants of highly trained Executive Chefs.

During my dining experience at

Spicy Brazilian

Lastly the stir-fry which uses the same base selections as the bowl and is prepared stir-fry style. All meals can be made vegetarian. Gluten free and dairy free options are available and marked clearly as such on the menu. Pizza (with gluten free crust available), Pasta (dinner only), Salads, sides, and light bites are also tasty and fresh menu items at Ciccio’s. Prepare to be utterly amazed by the garlic lime edamame,one of the light bites items. Daily specials along with a daily soup are also available.

Tuesday’s are always special at Ciccio’s with Taco Tuesday. For only $2.00 you can have the tasting of a bowl served on top of a grilled tortilla. Also for $2.00 you can get select draft beer or the red or white sangria in a champagne flute. Needless to say Tuesday’s are always packed at Ciccio’s There are three words I can use to describe Ciccio’s in a nutshell..Fresh..

Fresh..and Fresh and Tasty (did I say three words?)

Ciccio’s also offers online ordering and catering. To find out more about Ciccio’s visit their website at www. cicciorestaurantgroup.com. You can find their Brandon location at 11230 Sullivan Street in Winthrop Town Centre.

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON OCTOBER 2014

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