FOCUS Lakeland 06-07

www.FredsSouthernKitchen.com

Eat Better. Love Life. Live Longer.

facebook.com/FredsSouthernKitchen 2

august 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

FREE

LENSES WITH ALL KIDS’ FRAMES

Pearle Vision (Next to Chili’s)

1933 W. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, FL 33511 813-681-8880 Dr. Stephanie Kirkland, independent doctor of optometry Dr. Mona Kardani, independent doctor of optometry

813-685-0415

BUY ONE GET ONE

FREE

Buy a complete pair of eyeglasses or Rx sunglasses and get a second pair free.

Buy a complete pair (minimum purchase may apply) and receive a second complete pair up to a maximum value (maximum may vary) – same prescription. First pair must be of equal or greater value to free pair. An additional charge may apply depending on location and frame selection.

Valid prescription required. Excludes certain brands including Maui Jim and Oakley. Cannot be combined or used in conjunction with any vision care or insurance benefits or plans, any store or other offer, discount or sale, previous purchases, readers or non-prescription sunglasses. Valid at participating locations. Void where prohibited. Some restrictions may apply. Savings applied to lenses. See store for details. Offer ends 10/23/2010. ©2010 Pearle Vision. All Rights Reserved.

526251

Pearle Vision (in front of Kohl’s)

1371 Town Center Dr., Lakeland, FL 33803 863-413-0200 Dr. Richard Miller, independent doctor of optometry

863-688-4001

FREE LENSES

WITH ALL KIDS’ FRAMES Valid for children 14 and under. Free single vision polycarbonate lenses with frame purchase.

Valid prescription required. Excludes certain brands including Maui Jim and Oakley. Cannot be combined or used in conjunction with any vision care or insurance benefits or plans, any store or other offer, everyday kids’ package, discount or sale, previous purchases, readers or non-prescription sunglasses. Void where prohibited. Some restrictions may apply. See store for details.

Valid at participating locations. Offer ends 10/2/2010. ©2010 Pearle Vision. All Rights Reserved.

526772

FOCUS Magazine lakeland august 2010

3

table of contents

august 2010 volume 6 issue 7

101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd.

Plant City, FL 33563 Phone 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990

Publisher Mike Floyd

Family of Community Magazines

Office Manager Dede Floyd Copy Editor Lynne Warren Cheryl Johnston Sales Sophia Hyde Sheryl Vitelli Holly Farmer

FREE

AUGUST

2010

ontheCOVER

BRANDON EDITION

Lisa

R

ra is e od rig u Hon oto be cdo m$31,167 ez ra ry e th Bra n M a y oe r o don f

larry mitchell

Production Anthony Sassano Tony Cartagena FOCUSTV Brandon Hyde Kelleigh Klein

photo by suzanne gallagher photography

FREE AUGUST

2010

SOUTH TAMPA EDITION

8

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW �

Tony Ludovico

See the Underwater World Through His Lens

FOCUS

Plant City Lakeland Brandon Winter Haven Lake County South Tampa

14

FOCUSTV

MYFOCUSTV.COM Local Community Stories New Episode Every Wednesday

16

LOCAL

Summer has been a busy time for charitable efforts. The Lakeland Boys & Girls Clubs toured seven teens through Puerto Rico and 3,000 slabs for ribs sold at a BBQ fundraiser benefited the families of two slain Tampa Police officers. The annual Back-to-School Blast provided kids with supplies and physicals, while the Republican Women’s Club of Lakeland hosted their 27th Annual “Spring for Education Fashion Show” to support local schools.

Feature

Florida Southern College will soon build its 13th structure designed by the internationally renowned architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. When completed as the school’s new visitor center, the Usonian House is sure to draw many more tourists to Lakeland. Locals who have yet to visit the impressive campus should add a tour to their things-to-do-soon list.

21

Photographers Suzanne Gallagher Billy Friend Lori Blaser Tony Cartagena Staff Writers Brian West Jeffrey Clements Lynne Warren Krystel Knowles Al Ruechel Derek Maul Contributors Al Ruechel Bruce Rodwell Gil Gott Sherrie Mueller Jo-An Lusk Nate Davis Natalie Sweet Felix haynes

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

Please forgive us.

Spotlight

Larry Mitchell lives to help others who struggle with limitations such as disease, addiction, or homelessness. Meet this charming Florida man who loved football, chemistry, and the judicial process, but who through faith has found new purpose in New Life Outreach Ministries.

Own Your Own FOcus Magazine

Licensed territories are available.

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

Distibution Doug McGee Belva DeVane

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

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

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

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

Dining review

Plan a date with your sweetheart or family to dine at Texas Cattle Company. Be sure to go hungry because the portions and mouthwatering flavors will make a lasting impression. The “World Class Steaks,” tantalizing appetizers, and scrumptious desserts just might take your breath away.

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

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

floyd publications, Inc.

18 - Al Reuchel

19 - Derek Maul

20 - Auto Review

22 - Event Calendar 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd.

Plant City, FL 33563 Phone 813.707.8783 • Fax 813.764.0990

Farm Credit finances dreams large or small.

Whether large or small, Farm Credit can help you achieve the lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of. We’ve been financing dreams for more than 90 years. Call us, we’re the experts.

We provide: • Rapid turnaround • Financing or refinancing • Loans for large or small acreage • Loans on second residences

Vonda Fulwood 800-713-7550 vfulwood@farmcreditcfl.com

Loans for land, homes, & agriculture.

Are you in your

B-C Corral CENTRAL FLORIDA’S WESTERN WEAR HEADQUATERS Boots • Shirts • Blouses • Jackets • Jeans • Dresses Hats • Moccasins • Belts & Accessories

DREAM CAREER?

Emergency Medical Services EMT/Paramedic Medical Assistant Medical Insurance Coding Specialist Call Today

(863) 666-2200

4509 HIGHWAY 92, EAST (between Lakeland & Auburndale) Open: Mon - Sat 9:30 AM - 6 PM, Sun 12 noon - 5 PM

FCI

FLORIDA CAREER INSTITUTE

For A Better Future!

863-646-1400 • Financial Aid Available for Those Who Qualify • Placement Assistance Available

www.floridacareerinstitute.edu

5925 Imperial Parkway, Suite 200, Mulberry, Florida 33860 FOCUS Magazine lakeland august 2010

5

letter from the publisher

A Find More Stories @

Main Line Stoppages Kitchen Sink Lines Washing Machine backups New Septic Tank Installations Drain field Installation or Replacement Septic Tank Inspections Your personal excavation needs Asphalt Sealing and Repair service Land Clearing Storm Sewers

10% off kitchen sink lines code name “pig”

Where we are rootin for your business Hills: 813.967.1987 Polk: 863.644.4033 Residential & Commercial Owner David Shoupe

35 years experience

WE WE BUY BUY GOLD!

TURN YOUR OLD BROKEN OR UNWANTED JEWELRY INTO CA$H

few months ago I heard one of my favorite authors speak, Rob Bell.

This particular tour, Drops Like Stars, had such an interesting theme to it. He focused on the tragedies in life and finding the beauty in them. One thing he said has stuck with me ever since. He said that he asked several people over the age of 70 to list five moments in their life that made them who they are. Of course they would mention the births of children and relationships with spouses, however, on average, 3 of the 5 moments would be tragedies. They had all experienced moments in their life where it looked like everything had gone wrong and were surrounded by devastation, but in the end it became a positive turning point in their lives.

I look at the incredible story of Larry Mitchell, a local philanthropist whose life is dedicated to improving the lives of people at the end of their rope. When you read his interview you’ll learn of the many obstacles he faced having grown up black during the time of integration.

He took what little he was given and made a great life for himself graduating college with a degree in pharmacy and then going off to law school. However, because of poor decisionmaking and struggles he was facing in his life he was high when he took the bar and didn’t pass. I can only imagine that for anyone finishing law school, to get that far and go through all that intensity just to throw it away at the end leaves you filled with regret.

Five years later he was working in a pharmacy when he met Dr. Paul Williams, who permanently altered the course of his life. (You’ll have the read the article to find out why.)

But Larry will certainly tell you that it was meant to be for him to not pursue law but rather be in that place at that time in that pharmacy. Tragedy brought beauty into his life.

In fact, our feature story this month has quite a similar tie. Most people in Lakeland are aware that Florida Southern College is predominantly designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

What you may not realize is that he designed 18 buildings, but only 12 were built. Six completed designs by one of the most renown architects of the past century have been collecting dust for decades having never come to fruition. Make sure you read the feature story on Florida Southern this month because you will understand the amazing feats Dr. Anne Kerr has accomplished to see these plans carried out. In 2007 the college completed the restoration of a Water Dome he designed that was never fully completed the way he envisioned it. But even more exciting, plans are now in place to build a brand new building following his original drawings. It may have seemed tragic that six plans were collecting dust for 60 years, but now it is creating an opportunity for many Frank Lloyd Wright admirers to still see his beauty come to life.

Maybe it’s the eternal optimist in me, but stories like these make me look at my own life and take experiences that are surrounded with negativity and appreciate them for their potential. I challenge you to reflect on your own life. Fast forward to the end of your life, and could this moment you are walking through right now turn around to be the best thing that ever happened to you.

Hours: M-F 10-6

Sat. 10-5

E XPERT J EWELRY R EPAIR

6

Jewelers

august 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

1114 1114 Havendale Havendale Boulevard Boulevard NW NW Spring Spring Lake Lake Square Square Winter (863)299-8800 299-8800 Winter Haven Haven • (863) U.S. U.S. 98 98 North North (Next (Next to to Circuit Circuit City) City) Lakeland 816-2800 Lakeland • 816-2800

Mike Floyd Publisher

Local » Focus

Thanks to Taco Seven Boys & Girls Club Teens Bell, Explore Puerto Rico S

Written By: Cheryl Johnston

ince their return from an incredible journey to Puerto Rico, seven teens now see the world in a different light.

Soul’d Out Youth

Photos courtesy of B&GC of Lakeland and Mulberry

When Kelly Lane, Director of Development for Boys & Girls Clubs of Lakeland and Mulberry, learned the Taco Bell Foundation for Teens offered grants emphasizing real world experiences to improve graduation rates, she applied.

Lane, assisted by volunteer Nancy Duncan, chaperoned the seven in June for six days as they explored the U.S. Commonwealth of Puerto Rico’s history, geography, culture and its special foods.

Three youths had never flown, so even the money-saving layover in Chicago was a treat.

A few had never traveled outside of Florida, and according to Lane, one girl, Brianna Broome, walked around Puerto Rico for six days in awe “with eyes and mouth wide open” because prior to this first trip had said, “The neatest place I’ve ever been to is the Lakeland Mall.”

This Taco Bell Foundation’s generous $10,211 grant provided for airfare, meals, admission fees, and accommodations in the north shore town of Loiza.

Since Duncan had grown up in Puerto Rico, she was able to show them island sights they might never encounter as tourists.

Only one group member had a Hispanic heritage, and none spoke Spanish, still they appreciated exposure to a language several had studied in school. One particularly knowledgeable guide took pride in teaching special expressions to the teens. When they ate local criollo treats, they learned the Latin dining expression “Buen Provecho” (“May this food provide you with nourishment and good health.”)

Lane and Duncan overhead some commenting they would now “pay more attention in Spanish class because we might need it one day.”

L to R- (Back row) Ashley Thomas, Brianna Bryant Stroud, Natalie Lane, Mercedes Jackson, Jensen Pellarchy and (Front Row) Gabrielle Holland, Brianna Broome

waterfalls. They visited historic sites and museums.

Students were selected for cooperative attitudes and respectful behavior. Lane was inspired to “show them a bigger world” because when she grew up in the B&GC in Ohio, she said, “Someone did things like this for me. You can never underestimate the quick difference an interested adult can make in a child’s life.”

Cultural exposure “ increased their interest in science and geography”

Both chaperones believe in the impact that strong B&GC chapters can have on communities and appreciate the support of the United Way of Central Florida and numerous Polk County businesses and individuals who believe the same.

Additionally, students partnered with the B&GC of Puerto Rico on June 21, United Way’s National Day of Action, to prepare and serve lunch to 25 homeless men and women at Iniciativa Comunitaria, an organization that services at-risk populations.

Duncan expressed thanks for “the honor of guiding students on this life changing trip.”

Lane agreed and said, “Kids learn best while having fun. Lessons with direct correlations between activity and real life stick forever.”

Certainly, education has become a priority for these seven.

Ultimately, club members returned home with a greater understanding of poverty, an appreciation for nature, a greater tolerance for different cultures and as better citizens of their community.

To learn more, visit the Boys & Girls Club website at www.bgclakeland.com.

Cultural exposure increased their interest in science and geography. The group explored rain forests, caves, underground rivers, and FOCUS Magazine lakeland august 2010

7

Local » Focus

The Kettle Corn tent donated 100 percent of its profits Photo by Tony Cartagena

BBQ for Kocab & Curtis Memorial Funds Fundraising for the Families R Written By: John Ross

esidents of Lakeland came out July 17th to Kathleen Middle school for BBQ ribs. Slabs were sold for $20 and proceeds went to the Kocab & Curtis Memorial Fund, a fund which was created for the families of two Tampa police officers who were killed on duty in June.

There was a live auction in the school cafeteria in the afternoon as well as a bake sale, for which all proceeds went to the families.

Rod Hamlet and Kirt Sullivan of Florida BBQ Company & Catering (www.FLBBQ.

8

august 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

com) set up shop with a grill that wouldn’t have fit inside a garage. “It was unbelievable, the amount of people that showed up,” said Rod near the closing of the event. When asked for numbers, the reason for the mammoth grill became apparent : “3,000 slabs sold. 1,500 hogs gave their lives for a good cause.”

Melanie, the young daughter of a fireman of Hernando County helped her parents operate a kettle corn stand. “100% of the profit from sales is being donated,” said her mother, also noting how different organizations in the area tend to help each other when things get tough. “Brothers

helping brothers,” as Melanie described it.

Reports showed that over $70,000 was raised in a single afternoon for the families of the fallen police officers, an amazing accomplishment for the city of Lakeland and surrounding areas.

But our remembered police officers wasn’t quite the only reason vendors came to sell BBQ. Ken Jones, operator of Pink Butts BBQ, was motivated to raise funds for another reason. “My wife, my sister-in-law, and my mother-in-law are all cancer survivors,” he

said, before adding that people he knew at his church were also facing the same circumstances. “Porking for a Cure,” read the banner above the stand, implying connotations of finding a remedy for cancer.

Bob Evans restaurant pitched in with coleslaw for the stand, and a local farmer provided strawberries. An insurance broker of 23 years, Jones “went down to the bank, opened an account, and started a corporation just so I could do this.” Pink Butts BBQ will be at the annual Plant City Pig Jam in November.

Moving Homes and Businesses Next Door and Across the Country!

We can move as much or as little as you need.

• Office Relocation & Inner-Office Moves • Boxes & Packing Supplies • Packing and Unpacking Services • Fully Insured & Bonded • Apartment Movers • Senior Facility Moves • No Minimum Charge

Visit our Web Site at www.twomen.com Call for a FREE Estimate

646-MOVE

Saving elementary . . . .. .

Saving money money is is elementary

863-646-6683 5151 South Lakeland Dr #3 Lakeland, FL 33813

Thank OwnersInsurance Insurance Thank you for rating AutoThankyou youfor for rating rating AutoAuto- Owners Owners Insurance “Highest with the theAuto Auto “Highestin inCustomer Customer Satisfaction Satisfaction with with the Auto “Highest in Customer Satisfaction Insurance TwoYears Yearsin ina Row” Insurance Claims Experience, InsuranceClaims Claims Experience, Experience, Two Two Years in aaRow” Row” according to J.D. Power and Associates. according to to J.D. J.D. Power and and Associates.

Associates. according

You see them in T.V. commercials and in magazines!

Great agent==Value Value Greatrates rates ++ local, local, independent independent agent

EACH FRANCHISE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

LIFE •• HOME LIFE CAR •• BUSINESS BUSINESS HOME • CAR We areindependent independent agents proudly proudly representing We proudlyrepresenting representing Weare are independent

AGENCY NAME NAME OR LOGO AGENCY LOGOHERE HERE UP TO TWO LINES LONG UP TO TWO LINES LONG TownName Name •• 555-555-5555 555-555-5555 •• website Town website INSURANCE INC .

REGAN ERICKSON

DOUG TART

VICTORIA HAWTHORNE

Boston Red Sox Spokesperson for Kids’ Nation Fan Club ($450 A Day)

First Baptist Church Print Ad ($150 for 3 hours)

Shell Oil Company-Air Show ($780 for 5 Days) Sears Essentials Fashion Show

CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!

They’re the JESS ANDERSON MODELS!

All ages & types needed • No experience necessary • Free training

863-688-9939 1037 SOUTH FLORIDA AVENUE, SUITE 115 • LAKELAND, FL 33803 LIC#1290000013

Auto- Owners Insurance ranks highest among auto insurance providers in the J.D. Power and Associates 2008-2009 Auto Claims Studies. SM Study based on 11,616 total responses, ranking 25 insurance providSM Auto-Excludes Owners Insurance among auto insurance providersroadside in the J.D. Power and 2008-2009 Auto Claimsstudy Studies. basedon onexperiences 11,616 total and responses, ranking insurancesurveyed providers. those with ranks claimshighest only for glass/windshield, theft/stolen, assistance orAssociates bodily injury claims. Proprietary resultsStudy are based perceptions of 25 consumers SM are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed FOR YOUR INSURANCE NEEDS Excludes those with claims onlyamong for glass/windshield, bodily injury claims.

Proprietary study results uto-ers.

Owners Insurance ranks highest auto insurancetheft/stolen, providers inroadside the J.D. Power andorALL Associates 2008-2009 Auto Claims Studies.

Study based on 11,616 total responses, ranking 25 insurance providJune 2008 - assistance June 2009.

Your experiences may vary.

Visit jdpower.com.

2008 assistance - June 2009.orYour experiences may vary.

Visit jdpower.com. s. Excludes those with claims only for glass/windshield, theft/stolen,June roadside bodily injury claims.

Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed June 2008 - June 2009. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com.

503 W. Martin Luther King Blvd., Plant City

813-752-4155

www.poppellinsurance.com Auto-Owners Insurance ranks highest among auto insurance providers in the J.D. Power and Associates 2008-2009 Auto Claims Studies.SM Study based on 11,616 total responses, ranking 25 insurance providers. Excludes those with claims only for glass/windshield, theft/stolen, roadside assistance or bodily injury claims. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed June 2008 - June 2009.

Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com.

KEVIN JACK

CASANDRA VANN

ANDY WINTON

National Print Ad ASICS Sneakers ($750 A Day)

National TV Commercial for Slimming Shorts ($300 Per Hour) Sears Essentials Fashion Show

PUBLIX Supermarkets Print Ad ($300 A Day)

www.jessandersontalentandmodelagency.com Jess Anderson AUG10.indd 1

9

7/4/2010 8:36:43 AM FOCUS Magazine lakeland august 2010

Local » Focus

0% for 24 months** Parents and children enjoy activities and conversations with resource representatives at the Back to School Blast.Photo courtesy of of United Way Family Fundamentals

3.99% for 60 months***

PLANT CITY'S LARGEST SELECTION OF ZERO TURN MOWERS Over 25 models to choose from Optional Accessories: • Twin Bagger • Recycler® Mulch Kit • Foot Assist Height of Cut System • Sunshade • Rubber Floor Mat • Hitch Kit Mon-Fri: 8 am - 5:30 pm • Sat: 8 am - 12 pm • Closed Sunday

901 S Collins St Plant City, FL 33563 813-752-1066

www.wallerspowerequipment.com

5th Annual Backto-School Blast at The Lakeland Center

Free Health Screenings and Family Activities Written By: JCheryl Johnston

T

he 5th annual United Way Family Fundamentals and Community Partners free “Back-to-School Blast” benefitted many Polk County residents on Saturday, August 7, 2010 at the Lakeland Center.

Designed for students in pre-kindergarten through fifth grade, the event featured hands-on activities in addition to free physicals, immunizations, body mass index reports, and dental, vision, speech and hearing screenings.

The required registration for the free family event began at 7:30 a.m. for the official 10 a.m. opening. Families who arrived to register early enjoyed activities, exhibits, and entertainment in the “Go Green” room.

While supplies lasted, backpacks with school supplies were distributed to children Pre-K through 5th grade.

Family Fundamentals exists to connect

10

august 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

families to resources that will provide kids with what they need to be successful in school. During this event, health screenings provided by the Polk County Medical Reserve Corp and the Polk County Health Department were also available to any age students in attendance. These included body mass index screenings, visual and dental checks, and sports physicals.

For additional information about Family Fundamentals and its ongoing programs, contact program director Shawna Butler at 863-686-1221, extension 221 or visit www.

Uwcf.org and hover over the drop down for Family Fundamentals.

The community partners for this event included (in alphabetical order): Bay News 9, Bright House, City of Lakeland, Community Foundation of Great Lakeland (George W. Jenkins Fund), Heartland for Children, The Ledger, Magnify, Polk County Health Department, Publix Super Markets Charities, and Raggity Dog Productions.

Local » Focus

Shirley Whitney, PACE representative accepts check from Michelle Robare, Vice President Republican Women’s Club of Lakeland.

Republican Women’s ClubSpring Celebrates 27 for Education Fashion Show Years of Helping Schools F Written By: Cheryl Johnston

or 27 years the Republican Women’s Club of Lakeland has hosted the “Spring for Education Fashion Show. “

The fundraiser helps RWC to stock libraries, provide school supplies to disadvantaged children, support after school programs for at risk kids and help young people achieve their dreams of attending college. RWC of Lakeland has also established lending libraries to promote early reading skills, as well as making direct funds available to classroom teachers for unfunded worthy projects.

This year’s recipients are: Crystal Lake

Middle School, Dixieland Elementary, Jesse Keen Elementary, Southeastern University, Polk State College, Medulla Elementary, and Pace Center for Girls.

Schools or organizations wishing to apply for benefits must apply in writing before by May 30 each year.

In addition to the scholarships awarded, school supplies are being collected for Jesse Keen Elementary School and will be given to the school representatives at the upcoming Republican Women’s Club luncheon meeting at the Lakeland Yacht & Country Club at 11:30 AM on Thursday, August 19.

Reservations are required, call: Kay Cobb at

858-4751.

••••••••••••••••• Following a successful Republican Victory Headquarters opening with more than 110 in attendance, the headquarters is open at 1035 South Florida Avenue, Ste. 130 in the Dixieland Mini-Mall, Lakeland. Campaign literature is available and information available at the headquarters. Gene Roberts, chairman of the Polk County Republican Executive Committee, was the master of ceremonies and introduced Deborah Cox Roush, Vice Chairman of the Republican Party of Florida, as well as officeholders and candidates for election.

Several representatives from the following

listed clubs in Polk County attended the opening: Republican Club of Lakeland, Lakeland Republican Women, Winter Haven Republican Women, Republican Club of East Polk County, Republican Women of Greater Polk County, Polk County Young Republicans, Frederick Douglass Republican Club of Central Florida, Solivita Republican Club and Lake Ashton Republican Club.

To learn more or to get involved, visit The Republican Women’s Club website at www.

LakelandRepublicanWomen.com. The group meets the 3rd Thursday of the month.

Call Kay Cobb at 863-858-4751 to make reservations.

FOCUS Magazine lakeland august 2010

11

Feature» Florida Southern College

W r i g h t - b u i lt Ca m p u s to G e t

U so n i a n H o u s e Florida Southern College to Build Frank Lloyd Wright Design Written By: Brian West

F

lorida Southern College, a jewel of Lakeland and the central Florida area, was first founded by the Methodist Conference in 1852 as the Florida Seminary in Micanopy, Florida. The school relocated to Leesburg in 1885 and that same year, the college degree was awarded and the college was officially chartered. The school later moved from Leesburg to Sutherland, then to Clearwater, and finally to the campus in Lakeland on the north shore of beautiful Lake Hollingsworth. Then, in 1935, the school Trustees changed the name of the college to Florida Southern College.

Throughout its history, the college has seen many different successes, and all centered on its core commitment to academics.

Today, Florida Southern College offers 50 undergraduate programs, a comprehensive Masters program and most recently was included in the Princeton Review’s “368 Best Colleges” guide and the Friske Guide to College in 2009. It has also earned a Top 10 ranking of the “Best Baccalaureate Colleges in the South” by U.S. News and World Report.

While these classroom achievements are important, sports have also been an integral part of college life, and Florida Southern College – the Mocs (Moccasins); have achieved 26 NCAA Division II national championships with baseball and golf being the most recognizable. But all of these great successes wouldn’t be possible without the campus – where students learn, events take place and memories are made that stand the test of time.

In 1938, Dr. Ludd Spivey, the residing President of Florida Southern College, sent a telegram that would later be referenced as the starting point for a relationship that

12

august 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

would last more than 20 years.

The telegraph was addressed to Frank Lloyd Wright.

Wright was an internationally renowned architect, known for his designs and techniques.

At the time, he was considered the world’s most imaginative architect.

Spivey’s telegraph asked Wright to design “a great education temple in Florida.”

Wright would accept the invitation and ultimately designed 18 structures for the college. Wright was paid $13,000 for the campus site plan and a fee of 10% for the cost of each structure. Only 12 were completed when Wright passed away in 1959. However, those 12 structures are more than enough to make the largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright designs in the world.

The twelve buildings designed by Wright include; Annie Pfeiffer Chapel, Lucius Pond Ordway building, the Carter, Walbridge Hawkins Seminar building, the Thad Buckner building, the Emile E. Watson – Benjamin Fine Administration buildings, the Williams H. Danforth Chapel, the Polk County Science building, the Water Dome and the Esplanades (covered walkways).

Annie Pfeiffer Chapel is probably the most well-known of the collection on the campus. The chapel was built using student labor and was constructed from

1939-1941. It is the signature piece of the Wright collection for the campus. It’s located at the center of the campus and is also the tallest structure on the campus.

The tower’s design is affectionately know as “the bow tie,” which describes the wrought iron work at the top. Part of Wright’s design was to enable those standing beneath the tower to experience a feeling of being lifted “out of the ground and into the light…” and Wright accomplished this. The chapel is still used for services today, and the bow tie design has been incorporated into the logo for the college, along with Wright’s love for the color Cherokee red, which was also used with his designs.

The Lucius Pond Ordway building was completed in 1952. It was designed by Wright to serve as a cafeteria and dining hall but has never been used that way.

Instead, Ordway (as the students and faculty call it) first served as the home to the industrial arts center. Later, Ordway served as the campus location for the fine arts with its theatre-in-the-round – the only one designed by Wright, which makes the building even more special. In addition, Ordway was said to be one of

Wright’s personal favorites because of the simplicity of the design.

The Esplanades are the covered walkways that join various Wright buildings on the campus. They have very low ceilings by today’s standard. In fact, anyone approaching 6 feet in height may begin to think they’re going to have to duck, or risk scraping the top of their head. The ceilings are cantilevered through the design of the support columns. The Florida Southern campus was originally built on the site of a former orange grove and Wright designed his structures to blend with the environment. Wright designed the columns as the geometric representation of a shapely orange tree. Each place where the walkways make contact with other buildings, Wright designed the supporting columns to blend into the structure.

Throughout Wright’s buildings, he incorporated pieces of colored glass that capture exterior light, and the glass can be seen on the exterior and interior of the buildings. Students have even been known to remove the small pieces of glass over the years as keepsakes.

Feature» Florida Southern College The Polk County Science building was the last building completed by Wright. Again, a one and only Wright design, the science building includes a planetarium. It is the only planetarium Wright designed that was constructed. When walking the campus, this design is one of the easiest to identify with its domed roof at the south end of the structure.

Dr. Anne Kerr, President of Florida Southern College since 2004, is the only President since Dr. Ludd Spivey to witness construction of a Wright design.

Most recently, a massive restoration effort recreated Wright’s vision for his Water Dome. Architect Jeff Baker of MesickCohen-Wilson-Baker Architects, LLP of Albany, N.Y. followed Wright’s plans to build a single pool with 45-foot-tall jets of water. The restored Water Dome opened in October 2007. The Water Dome was one of Wright’s original plans for the campus. It is a 160’ diameter pool of water. Wright’s design was to create a dome of water through the use of water jets positioned round the perimeter of the pool that would spray water up and towards the center to create the “dome,” but unfortunately the technology needed didn’t exist at the time of construction. The water dome was originally completed in 1948, but in the 1960’s the structure was divided into 3 smaller pools and a concrete plaza. It was unsightly. Then in 2007, the college completed the restoration that was unveiled in a ceremony that drew a few thousand students, alumni and residents.

With the flip of a switch, the pumps began pushing water 45 feet into the air to create the dome, just as Wright had envisioned.

As you might imagine, running the

computerized fountain system isn’t cheap, so it can be viewed in operation Monday – Saturday at four different times – 10:15 – 11:30 a.m., 1:00 – 1:30 p.m., 2:30 – 3:00 p.m. and 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. So if you’re looking for a photo opportunity, make sure you time your shots.

Some of the other Wright designs that weren’t completed include the Usonian House, an arts & crafts building, faculty and student dormitories and a Music building. So now the college is getting ready to construct the Usonian House.

Kerr said, “Florida Southern College faculty, staff and students are privileged to work and study in a living, breathing Frank Lloyd Wright museum every day.

We consider it a great honor not only to be entrusted with the preservation of a masterpiece of this quality, but also to ensure that we share it with future generations of students and visitors to enjoy and appreciate.” “Usonian” is an acronym for United States of North America. The core idea for the Usonian House was to control costs - a popular theme in today’s economy. Wright wanted the design to be affordable for the middle class. At roughly 1700 square feet, it had no attics or basements and very little, or no, exterior décor elements.

However, building the Usonian House won’t be as simple as just pulling out the prints and getting to work. Wright designed this structure more that 50 years ago, and building codes – especially here in Florida, have changed quite a bit. All this must be taken into consideration, without altering the original design, or

at least as little as possible. To make the construction even more interesting, the college still has the original custom molds used for the construction of other Wright designs, so those molds will be used once again. During the construction of the other Wright designs, the blocks were made from the molds at the construction site. This time around, they’ll be made

Southern added to their list of the most important structures in the world. Kerr shared that during a trip to New York for a meeting with the organization, she was speaking of the Frank Lloyd Wright designs she had, and an architect who specialized in modern structures said, ‘No, what you have are Frank Lloyd Wright inspired designs.’ Kerr said, “Oh no, I have

at another location and transported to the site. However, there will be a student work day to give students an opportunity to participate in the construction. Rodda Construction has been awarded the project.

And to really keep the project at home, Jason Rodda, a Florida Southern graduate, will provide oversight.

the originals. I fumbled around in my brief case an unfurled it. They were just shocked.”

The Usonian House was originally designed

by Wright to serve as inexpensive housing for college faculty. There were plans to build several of the houses, but funding became an issue. Once the Usonian House is complete, the building will be used as a visitor center for the college. Today, the college hosts more than 30,000 visitors each year from around the world who come to this site to tour the collection of Wright buildings. Once the world learns that the Usonian House, an original Wright design, is complete, the yearly visitor number is expected to increase more than 3 fold to 100,000 and bring more than $10 million to the local economy. Kerr said, “The visitor center will give us even greater opportunities to educate others about the historical architectural treasures that exist on our beautiful campus.”

The college has had a few of the remaining designs that were part of Wright’s original plan since the college first entered into the agreement with the famed architect.

Kerr has even worked with the World Monument Organization to get the Florida

The college has worked very hard to obtain the funding for the building. To date, more that $4 million in private and public funding has been raised for the restoration this collection of Wright’s designs. The Usonian House is estimated to be a $2 million project. Because the project has a financial benefit to the local economy, on June 21, 2010, the Lakeland City Commission, through a unanimous vote, committed $500,000 toward the project, and the money will be made available to the college over the next 5 years. Prior to the city commitment, he project received a $1 million commitment from the Polk County Commission. The college has also received pledges and donations of more than $40,000.

2010 marked the 125th anniversary of the college, and there was much to be proud of. From humble beginnings, Florida Southern College has made quite a name for itself and its students. Today, more than 2000 students attend the college to pursue degrees in business, administration, education, and nursing. Another a draw for students – a 12:1 student/faculty ratio is almost unheard of in today’s colleges. The low ratio goes a long way in making college a true learning experience for both the student and the faculty.

FOCUS Magazine lakeland august 2010

13

14

august 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

AUGUST 21

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

AUGUST 21

THE CONTOURS

FEATURING SYLVESTER POTTS

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

AUGUST 28

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

SEPTEMBER 3

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

SEPTEMBER 4

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

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

SEPTEMBER 25

GEORGE GALFO’S MYSTICS

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

OCTOBER 1

JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

A dynamite crowd pleaser! DESTINY performs before and after the show.

OCTOBER 2 & 8

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

OCTOBER 9

JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

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

OCTOBER 15

RICHIE MERRITT

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

OCTOBER 16 & 22

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

SEPTEMBER 10

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND SEPTEMBER 11 & 17

MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

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

SEPTEMBER 18 & 24

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

Delfonics OCTOBER 23

SOUL MUSIC NIGHT

SUGAR BEAR

WITH THE DELFONICS AND ARTHUR “SUGAR BEAR” AIKEN

Two Grammy Nominated & Award Winning Groups in one great night! The legendary DELFONICS singing their hit – “La La Means I Love You,” plus much more, and lead singer of The Blue Notes, Arthur “Sugar Bear” Aiken. Hear songs like “If You Don't Know Me By Now,” “The Love I Lost” & many more. Johnny Alston’s Motown Rock & Roll Revue will perform before and after the show in the Red Rose Ballroom.

OCTOBER 29

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

SHOW RESERVATIONS

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

JOHNNY ALSTON’S

The

OCTOBER 23

LOLA & THE SAINTS

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

PLUS

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

NO COVER CHARGE for shows in the 5-Star Red Rose Dining Room with the purchase of dinner. Show Guests - inquire about our special room rates when staying overnight after a show!

P.J. LEARY & THE LAS VEGAS SOUNDS

with special guest KEN BRADY (Lead Singer of The Casinos), featuring the 1967 hit “Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye” before and after the show in the Red Rose Dining Room.

TEL: 813.752.3141

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

WWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COM

Mrs. Evelyn Madonia - Owner/General Manager

FOCUS Magazine lakeland august 2010

15

Larry Mitchell

A Calling to Help Others From his own struggles to giving back, Larry Mitchell found his calling

L

arry Mitchell found his calling in mission work more than 20 years ago, and hasn’t looked back. Raised on the east coast of Florida in a small town, Fort Pierce, Mitchell grew up during trying times in our country, but managed to rise to the top. His story is an inspiration for others as he now spends his life working to help others.

Focus: Where are you from, originally?

Mitchell: My name is Larry Mitchell. I was born in 1954 in Fort Pierce, Florida. It’s a small town on the east coast of Florida.

Focus: Tell me about your parents.

Mitchell: My mother is Ruby Mitchell and my father is Willie Lee Mitchell. Both of my parents were workers. Neither graduated high school. I think both my mother and my father only have a 4th grade education. My father was from Georgia and my mother was from the Avon Park and Sebring area. My mother had a big family and my father had a fairly big family. But they were hard working people. My father worked in the fertilizer business mostly. I’d always see him on my way to school. If he wasn’t on a truck, he was sitting on the front loading porch getting a nap. If he wasn’t working, he was getting that mid-day nap, and I think I got that from him too. My mother was a sweet, hard working lady. In fact, she just celebrated her 80th birthday today, and still works one day out of the week at the same place she’s been working for the past 40 or 50 years. She basically did housework or maid work at Shamrock Village. It’s a very popular place on the east coast. She used to work for the head manager of the village for years.

Focus: Do you have any siblings?

16

august 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

Mitchell. Yes. I have one brother, Gerome

Mitchell. I’m one of 5 boys that lived. So you could say I was born lucky. Two of my brothers died at birth.

Focus: Tell me about your immediate family.

Mitchell: I lost my wife 9 years ago. But I have two beautiful daughters, Lace and Lark, and a granddaughter. Both of my daughters have finished their undergraduate work and are both working on their Masters Degrees.

Focus: Tell me a little about life growing up in Fort Pierce.

Mitchell: Fort Pierce was a citrus town.

It’s not too far from a river and the Atlantic Ocean, and that’s where I learned to swim and fish. That was how I spent some of my growing up days. We also played football in the streets. We played marbles. We ran around in the mangroves and the orange groves, just playing, trying to stay out of trouble. [Laughing] I was a mischievous type person, I just never got caught. I grew up with a great family; a great Christian family. My parents raised us up fearing the Lord and just reaching outward. On Saturdays, I remember going to work with my mother. We’d play with the toys of the people she was working for, so it was like Christmas for us every Saturday. It was a lot of fun. I can even remember when I was 7 or 8 years old, one of the residents there gave me a hundred pennies. I thought I was wealthy. I thought a hundred pennies meant a hundred, hundred, hundred. It was the state of mind I was in. [Laughing] It took me a little while to realize my hundred pennies was just a dollar.

Focus: Where did you go to high school?

Mitchell: I came up in the 1970s. During that time, the country was going through a lot of change. If you remember the movie

Remember the Titans, my high school years were a lot like that. The black schools were being integrated with the white schools.

There were riots around the country, the Black Panthers, just a lot of violence in the south. But as I look back on it, our country had to come to that to get where we are today. It was a crossroad. I was in the eighth grade and played quarterback for the black school. My best friend today, Cleveland Hayling, happened to be black, and also played quarterback, but he was already attending an integrated school. My school and his school merged when the built Fort Pierce Central High School for grades 9 – 12. So it became a competitive thing between the two of us, both coming to the new high school and both playing quarterback. But I must admit he was way ahead of me with his skills. Hayling turned out to be the second black quarterback recruited by the University of Florida. In fact, he was just here working with me for the past year and a half. Cleveland and I were the only two sophomores to make the team. I started as a defensive back and he was the third string quarterback. That was 1970, and as a new school, we played for the state championship that year, but lost.

But we went back to the championship the following year and won. My coach reminds me that we’re the only school in the state of Florida, as a new school, that went to the championship game back to back.

Focus: I understand you just got your championships ring?

Mitchell: We were awarded things, but we just didn’t get rings. Our coach brought a lot of things to us as a new school. We had a new field, new equipment, new stadium; two of everything. It was a big change from when I was in 7th and 8th grade, when we got all the hand-me-downs from the white schools. We never had anything new. Sometimes you were lucky to get a uniform. And if you did, you carried that uniform home with pride. So when we got to the new school, when we came out of that locker room and ran onto that field, we were proud – the fighting Cobras. When we won the state championship, we were awarded football blankets, kind of like a commemorative blanket, and footballs. We just didn’t get rings.

Focus: Tell me about your education.

Mitchell: Columbia University was interested in me. I had a 3.0 average, but that wasn’t good enough for Columbia.

Academics were first at Columbia. I went to Florida A&M and was accepted into their Pharmacy program. While I was there someone saw me kicking a football and asked me to try out for the team. I made the team and got a scholarship for my pharmacy degree. I graduated in 1978 and played on

the team that won the first Division I-AA Championship.

Focus: How did you get interested in pharmacy?

Mitchell: I loved chemistry.

Focus: But that wasn’t the end of your college education.

Mitchell: I tried to get a job through some independents, but the jobs just weren’t there.

Eventually I became the first black male to get a pharmacy internship in Florida with Eckerd Drugs. After dealing with some of the customers, I realized that pharmacy just wasn’t what I wanted to do. I had a friend who earned his law degree and told me I should try it. I took the LSAT and submitted my application to Southern Louisiana Law School. I graduated in 1983.

Took the BAR exam, but didn’t pass.

job that is 24 hours a day, everyday. We are supported today without any federal or state dollars. We’ve had that support in the past, but not today.

Focus: How do you get your funding?

Mitchell: Funding today comes by finding these guys jobs, and then they pay rent.

We provide them a place to live, food, counseling and classes. We have speakers that come in each week to help them and we connect with resources that help them with resumes and other skills needed to get a job.

Mitchell currently has some construction underway in one of his buildings that will provide some much needed space. This isn’t your everyday story, but it’s just one of the things that are right with Lakeland.

Focus: What happened?

Mitchell: I had a drug problem. This was when freebase and crack became a big thing.

I realized what was going on and was able to get away from it. I struggled with it on and off, and was high the day I took the BAR. I was working in a pharmacy in 1988 when Dr. Paul Williams came in and changed my life. There was something about him that I wanted to be a part of. He was a missionary and neonatal doctor.

I got involved with him and traveled for about 14 years doing faith-based medial missionary work all over the world. I’ve been hooked since. I came back with a passion to start a program and help others. I bought a house and then another house, and another house. We started with 3 clients and have 21 clients today.

Focus: What is it about mission work that called you?

Mitchell: It’s who I am. We all try to find who we are and what our purpose is in life.

You’ve heard my resume. When you hear that, it sounds like someone trying to get ahead in life, maybe even financially. There’s nothing wrong with that, but once you achieve all that, if you don’t have Christ, or you’re born again; for me, I was still empty.

So until I gave myself to the Lord and discovered my calling, I was lost. Once you find what you’re here for, life becomes so much better.

Focus: Tell me more about your work today.

Mitchell: At New Life Outreach Ministries we have people coming to us from every kind of situation. They’ve been in prison. They have HIV. They suffer mentally. The rest are homeless or a combination thereof. This is a FOCUS Magazine lakeland august 2010

17

extra » al reuchel

“

I heard some economist says it could take another 7 to 10 years to recover the loses we suffered in the economic collapse.

”

of ALL workers have less than $10,000 put away for retirement. Yes, the older you get the higher the amount saved. But even for those in the 50 to 55 group ALL workers have less than $60,000 put away. MetLife also reports that only about 35 percent of workers 45 to 49 feel they will be ready for retirement when, and if they can retire.

CEO Salaries: Yep, I’m going to slam this group again. According to Forbes Magazine average CEO salaries for 2009 were up 18 to 27 percent with bonuses up 25 to 32 percent. An average CEO makes 364 times the salary of an average worker. The average worker saw increases in 2009, according to the labor department, of 2.1 percent. That’s of course if you weren’t one of the 8-million people who lost their jobs in the past two years. Remind me one more time how CEO pay doesn’t affect the salary of the average worker.

Signs the Economy

Is still whacked!

Written By: Al Reuchel

I don’t care what the economic gurus say the economy is just plan whacked for the average Joe and here are some signs why.

U

nemployment! I still know way too many good, hard working folks who can’t do just that . . work hard. One of my friends has applied for over 300 jobs online. He wants to get an interview but it’s nearly impossible because he’s over educated, older than 40. He’s already been accepted into nursing school but there is a two year wait. He’s not alone in his search. Another gal has been an executive secretary for more

18

august 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

than 20 years and can’t even land a job in Target or even as a greeter at Wal-Mart.

There are too many seniors lined up in front of her.

401k’s: When the economy stinks putting money away for retirement is a joke. Most folks have their money tied up in 401k’s to the tune of 18-billion dollars. Great! Not so much. That figure used to be nearly three

times as large. I heard some economist says it could take another 7 to 10 years to recover the loses we suffered in the economic collapse. And now, most investors are pulling away from the markets which means growth prospects are slim.

Retirement savings: Here’s a real shocker.

Employment Benefit Research was quoted in USA Today on July 27th, that 43 percent

City workers getting axed: Budget woes in cities will cost more than 500,000 jobs according to a survey released by the National League of Cities. Firefighters and police are the next to go. Property values haven’t rebounded, federal help, i.e. stimulus money, is about to end, the recovery is stalling, we can’t afford dog catchers, park maintenance, recreation programs, all things we all love and took for granted for so many years.

The debt: And here’s the sure sign the economy is still whacked: some lawmakers in Washington are talking about a second stimulus program. Can you believe it?

Our payments to cover just the interest on our national debt in 2015 will average two trillion dollars. Happy midterm elections!!!!!!

extra » derek maul

“

When we don’t tell the whole truth, then we’re really not telling the truth at all

”

Additionally, and if there’s not enough negative news available, some commentators simply make stuff up. Last month, one huge controversy emerged in response to a racially charged “story” that was not only inaccurate but patently untrue.

Finally, friends, T his past week I’ve been thinking about credibility in writing – and most specifically the way stories are shared with the general public via the mainstream news media.

Several years ago I made a conscious decision to adopt one of my favorite scriptures Philippians 4:8 - as my “writing mantra”.

So I prepare my work with the intention of covering “Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” The ideal serves as my overarching theme.

But, you may ask: “What if the world, the event, or the situation you’re dealing with really is an honest-to-goodness maelstrom of vile putrescence?” And I’m sure you would

The negative spin went viral as the result of our chronic addiction to bad news, and the tendency of people to pass along (via email or in person) anything that supports their own narrow-mindedness. Truth becomes less important than the advancement of bias, political agenda, and our own prejudicial point of view. This is a chain reaction that happens far too easily.

whatever is true…

Written By: derek maul

use words like maelstrom and putrescence.

Well that’s a fair question, but we should also consider this: Isn’t there a sense in which the life we experience tends to conform to our preconceptions and our general philosophy? Aren’t negative expectations and interpretations routinely met, simply because that’s the kind of energy we bring to the table?

And isn’t it true to say that the way we interpret events and people, is in effect a not so subtle form of social leadership? Belief is a powerful tool, as is unbelief. When the stories we tell and the stories we listen to become predominantly negative, then we have made conclusions - pre-conclusions that contribute to the shadowy critical mass that makes a dark status quo so hard to move beyond.

Fact is, it’s not so much the media that’s

the message (Marshall McLuhan) as it is the personal filter of the storyteller that comprises the crux of the communication.

We can more properly say, then, that the messenger is the message.

In the year 2010, truth is too often sacrificed in favor of “playing to the audience”. Think for a minute about the way faith is often slanted in the press. The dark joke goes like this: If you want your church to make the news, you have to hope your pastor gets caught in some indiscretion!

However, for every religious leader caught in embezzlement, adultery, manipulation or child pornography, there are literally hundreds of good men and women building up families and living Christ-directed lives that rock the world for good. But who do we hear about on radio and television, or read about on-line and in the paper?

But there’s a huge cost when we go down this road. Because the stories we tell and then retell become the fabric of common consciousness.

When we don’t tell the whole truth, then we’re really not telling the truth at all.

That’s why I make a point to interview local spiritual leaders and share their positive witness in the newspaper. That’s why I tell stories about countless people doing good, and about people quietly living eloquent lives of transformational faith.

I don’t do this because I want goodness to be true. I do this because I know that it is.

There is so much in this world that is true, honorable, just, pure, pleasing, commendable, excellent and worthy of praise.

“Think about these things,” Paul said, and I agree wholeheartedly. I mean it friends.

Really think about these things.

In love and in truth - DEREK

FOCUS Magazine lakeland august 2010

19

extra » Auto Review

2010 Grand Sport is a Chip off the Old Latest Grand Sport keeps pace with Heritage Block A submitted By: Brian West

uto Reviews are back at Focus Magazine; the first in more than 3 years, and we’re going to do things a little different than what you might have been accustomed to in the past. Starting with this review for the print version of Focus Magazine, Charles Harris and I will also do an on-line review at www. thefocusmagazine.com, of the same vehicle – and try to have a little fun in the process.

And what better way to start than to work with our friends at Bartow Chevrolet (this month’s Spotlight Interview) to do a review of the 2010 Corvette Grand Sport.

The Chevrolet Corvette is arguably THE American sports car. The Corvette debuted in 1953 and wasn’t anything close to the sports car it is today. But the Corvette

20

august 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

evolved and is now the Chevrolet product spoken of in the same breath as the big three of the sports car world: Ferrari, Lamborghini and Porsche. In recent years, there have only been a couple of variations: the Corvette and the Z06. For 2011, Chevrolet is bringing back a little history with a Grand Sport, and you have to understand the history of the Grand Sport to really appreciate the car.

Chevrolet gained most of the recognition for the Corvette in the early 1960s when Zora Arkus-Duntov – the engineer credited with the early development of the Corvette, was building a Corvette to compete on the racing circuit. He succeeded with the 1963 Grand Sport, and five hand-built prototypes came to life. They boasted 550 hp and could really move. Problem was, the governing body for racing had already placed a ban on

factory involvement in racing, and Duntov was breaking the rule. When the brass at GM discovered Duntov’s involvement, they ordered the cars to be crushed. However, according to local Corvette collector, Bill Tower, “All 5 Grand Sports disappeared in the middle of the night.” One of those cars was raced by Roger Penske and resides in Plant City as part of Tower’s collection.

These 5 Grand Sports are among the most enviable cars to collectors.

Since the original prototypes, Chevrolet has only offered the Grand Sport once before, in 1996. For the past several years, the Corvette has been offered in three options: the base model, the Z51 and the Z06. The 2010 Grand Sports (about a $6000 option) replaces the Z51 package and finally fills the middle gap the Z51 package couldn’t. The

Grand Sport features a 436 hp 6.2 Liter V8 with a two mode exhaust system, the Z51 performance suspension, wider fenders, wider tires (18-in front, 19-in rear), and larger brakes. It also sports the Z06 front bumper, rear spoiler and rear brake ducts. And yes, the car can move. How’s 0-60mph in 4.0 seconds sound? It also turns out a 12.4 second quarter mile at 116 mph and a top speed of 190 mph. That’s performance. The 2010 Grand Sport can be ordered with 1LT, 2LT, 3LT and 4LT trim packages and in four exterior colors, as well as two-tone seats with Grand Sport embroidery. It can be had as a coupe or convertible. Base price for the Grand Sport is $54,770. The model I drove had an MSRP of $68,365. So, if you’re in the market for a new Corvette, visit Bartow Chevrolet. They’ll be happy to make you a customer now, and in the future.

entertainment » dining review each steak in its own fat casing to seal in the natural juices of the beef. It is then aged for approximately 40 days to bring out the maximum flavor and tenderness of the cut.

For the first time in this reviewer’s life, after having eaten hundreds of amazing steaks, I took a deep breath and didn’t ask the server for A-1. The steak was an inch thick and packed with flavor. Subtle nuances of the oak and citrus natural wood burning grill presented themselves. Upon cutting and biting into it, the tenderness and juiciness of the beef became apparent. My teeth touched with ease.

award winning Blue Garlic Chips Photo by Tony Cartagena

Texas Cattle World Class Steaks Company T written By: John Ross

exas Cattle Company in Lakeland opened in 1973 as the first famous Talk of the Town restaurant and has two culinary objectives: 1. Give you the best tasting steak you can find, and 2. Make sure there is no way you can finish your three course meal.

The restaurant puts its money where its mouth is, willing to actually bet that you can’t finish the famed “6LB Texas challenge” in 75 minutes or less: One large Idaho baked potato, a house garden salad... and a preposterously sized 96 oz. sirloin steak. Eat it all in an hour and fifteen minutes and it’s free.

While all of the other meals at Texas Cattle Company aren’t large enough to feed a small church, they each are still a little sister of “the challenge”. With the smallest steak on the menu being 18 ounces (except for the filet mignon of course... let’s be serious!) you know you and your family will have plenty to eat.

Deidre, general manager of the restaurant seated us at the restaurant and told us to take our pick from the menu.

For an appetizer we had the Blue Garlic

Chips - potatoes cut into thick slices in the restaurant, tossed in garlic butter, fried and drizzled with gorgonzola cheese and Blue Fry Mayo, the restaurant’s unique home made cheesy cream sauce. With the sauce, toppings, and chives it doesn’t reminisce of eating potato chips. Perhaps more like potato skins with cheese but in a crunchy way. This appetizer was voted as one of Polk County’s best appetizers by major publications in 2007, and for good reason. Delicious, unique, and lots to go around. At least four people could share this.

As an additional option, I chose a fondue to go with my steak, a white cream sauce with big chunks of crab. Crab meat in sauce is never a bad thing - this drizzled on the steak is sweet, aggressive, and rich.

The Ribeye was so delicious it shouldn’t be allowed on the menu for the sake of Cowdom. The amount of beef flavor was staggering – the aforementioned aging techniques really hit home on this cut.

What helped set this off was another additional style choice the restaurant offersa separate fondue composed of the Blue Fry sauce (as featured on the Blue Chips), gorganzola cheese crumbles, chives, and bacon bits. The ribeye, without a doubt, was legendary.

Enjoyed throughout the meal was the Blue Rose of Texas, a margarita that comes in a

glass that should probably have two handles instead of one- if not for the weight, then for how you will feel after drinking the whole thing. 32 oz of blue beverage lit on fire by your server definitely is worth a picture!

The portions as previously mentioned were impressive. But then when the 6-layer chocolate cake was served, it went past awesome and started to become funny. I broke into a huge grin, not as much out of anticipation as out of humor - after all that food and to-go boxes all over the table, we were hit with a “piece” of dark chocolate cake that would have to take damage to fit inside of a mailbox. This “slice” of cake was so big, one might automatically request a to-go box to save the server a trip. It was perhaps a 1/6th slice of a respectably sized wedding cake. Stuff it in the box and buckle it up in the back seat - you’ll be making room in the fridge when you get home.

All in all, I feel spoiled after having the steak. I fear the next time I eat beef I might revert back to my old stubborn days of tipping back the ole A-1.

Texas Cattle Company 735 E. Main Street Lakeland, FL 33801 Sunday-Thursday 5PM-10PM Friday-Saturday 5PM-11PM Phone: (863) 686-1434

Also for appetizers we tried the shrimp cocktail. The shrimp are absolutely huge, each folded and packed tightly into a shot glass with the tail extending well out of the top of the glass. The dish is presented as a row of these shrimp-stuffed shotglasses.

The appetizer gave way to the restaurant’s unlimited garden salad with house dressing which accentuated, to a notable degree, the fresh pepper our server ground.

For dinner we first had the 24oz Porterhouse. “Our steaks are cooked over an 1100 degree oak and citrus natural wood burning grill,” said Deidre. She described how the restaurant managers initially cut

the monsterous rib eye

Photo by Tony Cartagena

FOCUS Magazine lakeland august 2010

21

entertainment » event calendar

Lakeland

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

Sunday, Aug 15- Sept 15 » Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Fantasy of Flight » Service Industry Summer 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Fantasy of Flight » Bring a Buddy for Free 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Fantasy of Flight

Sunday, Aug 15 » Classic Foreign Film Cinema Paradiso 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Historic Polk Theatre

Thursday, Aug 19 » Business After Hours 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm 961 E County Road 540 A

friday, Aug 20 » Classic Foreign Film The Last Metro 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Historic Polk Theatre

Saturday, Aug 21 » Family Film Jurassic Park 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm The Historic Polk Theatre, 121 South Florida Ave » Live at the Gardens!

The Repeatles with Dwight Icenhower as Elvis

22

august 2010 thefocusmagazine.com

6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Bow Tower Gardens

Sunday, Aug 22 » Classic Foreign Film The Last Metro 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Historic Polk Theatre

friday, Aug 27 » Classic Foreign Film 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Historic Polk Theatre

saturday, Aug 28 » Suncoast Gun Show 9:00 am - 5:00 pm The Lakelanc Center » Explorations V Children’s Museum’s 19th Birthday Xtravaganza 10:00 am - 3:00 pm 109 N Kentucky Ave » Family Film Beetlejuice 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm The Historic Polk Theatre » Classic Foreign Film Babette’s Feast 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Historic Polk Theatre

sunday, Aug 29 » Suncoast Gun Show 9:00 am - 4:00 pm The Lakeland Center

» Classic Foreign Film Babette’s Feast 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm Historic Polk Theatre

tuesday, Aug 31 » Music and Martinis 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Sikes Hall, The Lakeland Center

friday, sept 3-4

friday, sept 10 » Kiwanis Peanut Auction 11:30 am - 1:00 pm First United Methodist Church

tuesday, sept 14 » 56th Annual Community Recognition Dinner & Auction 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm Lake Mirror Auditorium

» Disney on Ice presents Disney/Pixar’s Toy Story 3 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm The Lakeland Center Jenkin’s Arena Find More Stories @

» First Friday “Back to School-Salute to Educators” 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Downtown Lakeland

ACUPUNCTURE

THERAPY CENTER 156 2nd St S.W. Winter Haven, FL 33880

863-521-2999 “Dr. Kathy”

Katherine Teisinger A.P. Acupuncture Physinian

Specializing in Pain Relief Food Sensitivity Testing Matrix Energies “Dr. Kathy changed my life! I lived my life with chronic neck pain for the past 20 years. I have seen every imaginable doctor and received the same results, no relief. Not a fan of needles I never even contemplated acupuncture, till last month when a friend of mine promised me Dr. Kathy would give me relief. I left her office in tears but this time it was happy tears, I have not felt this good in 20 years.”

- Linda P.

One Stop For All Your Vehicle Needs Come See Why More People In Central Florida Prefer To Buy From Us

Come Visit Our Award Winning State-of-the-art Service Department

The 1st Year of Maintenance is Included With Every New Vehicle Purchase

Home Of The $15 Oil Change

Great Selection Of Certified Vehicles For All of Your Vehicle Maintenance Needs No Appointments Needed No Waiting No Worries

t Mos es & Mak ls e Mod

Tires For Most Makes and Models

Auto Body Repair Shop Our Parts & Accessory Department Can Help Personalize Your Vehicle Wheels & Tires Running Boards Vent Visors Bug Shields And More...

E FRE es at Estim

A Ma ll kes & Mo del s

Minor Dents & Dings Or Major Accidents WeĂ­ ll Make Your Vehicle As Good As New

Lifetime Warranty On All Work

299 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven

863-299-1243 - www.WHDodge.com FOCUS Magazine lakeland august 2010

23