FOCUS Lakeland 07-02

MARCH 2011 VOLUME 7 ISSUE 2

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FOCUS Magazine lakeland march 2011

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tABle of contentS

march 2011 voLume 7 issue 2

702 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Plant City 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

ONTHECOVER 8 FOCUS

Plant City Lakeland Brandon Winter Haven Lake County South Tampa

FOCUSTV

MYFOCUSTV.COM Local Community Stories

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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

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Sales Sophia Hyde Julie Hastings Holly Farmer Brent Simmons linda Simmons

sun ‘n Fun

painting By tony cartagena

Production anthony Sassano Tony Cartagena Photographers danny Cruz Tony Cartagena

lOCal

Lakeland and the surrounding areas are such great communities where the people who reside there seem to understand what is important in life - it is all about community. Find out about some things and local people that continue to make Lakeland an amazing place to live.

FeaTURe

Get ready, Lakeland. Spring has arrived, and you that means time for the Annual Sun n’ Fun International Fly-In and Expo. Buy tickets in advance and visit the website for daily schedule. It’s history in the making, so be there!

SPOTligHT

Lawyers are trained to see justice done by establishing guilt or innocence. The Florida Innocence Project exists to help some who can’t help themselves. Meet Seth Miller, the program’s executive director and learn what Florida’s legal system is doing to provide hope to the innocently incarcerated.

BUSineSS PROFile

Helping Hands, Caring Hearts is a business established to take the stress off of caregivers and help those who need extra care to live in their homes independently, with respect and dignity. Professional, compassionate, and affordable - experienced caregiving doesn’t get any better than this.

dining ReVieW

Ling’s Buffet is already a Lakeland dining destination. If you haven’t tried this great restaurant yet, do so and soon. Variety, taste, and affordability make Ling’s a favorite. Our reviewers were very impressed with the sushi, too.

Staff Writers Brian West John Ross Cheryl Johnston kristi linbaugh Contributors al Ruechel Bruce Rodwell gil gott Jo-an lusk nate davis natalie Sweet Felix haynes derek Maul

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

Please forgive us.

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

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

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

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

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

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

floyd publications, Inc.

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Plant City, FL 33563 Phone 813.707.8783 • Fax 813.764.0990

FOCUS Magazine lakeland march 2011

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Letter From the puBLisher

i

recently watched the 2011 Oscars, but what stood out the most to me were not any of the awards or celebrities, rather a scene at the very end of the evening. The finale performance was given by PS22, a 5th grade chorus from New York.

A couple months ago when flipping through channels I caught a segment featuring this chorus’ story. If you’re not familiar with PS22, the simple version of the story is that a music teacher decided to take a unique approach to teaching the students. Rather than teaching structure, uniform, and traditional music while accompanying on the piano, he grabbed his guitar and taught students pop music. He encouraged them to completely let go of everything in their lives and feel the music they were singing. He wanted them to connect to the music just like a true musician would.

The results have been phenomenal. There are stories of children living in broken homes, coming from poverty, neglect or other burdens and yet their lives completely change because of his class. They are free to be themselves and allow the music to inspire them. It’s created positive influences in their attitudes, performance in school and lives in general. It has taught them to live with passion.

The school’s music program was discovered on YouTube and since then the doors have flung wide open. They’ve been performing all over the country, most recently at the Oscars.

Watching the children sing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” you can see each one’s individuality and freedom to connect with what they’re singing.

The story of this music teacher and program can be applied to so many areas of our lives. It’s most often used as an example of the importance of arts in the school system, but I believe it’s so much more. The core of the story is that someone chose to follow their passion and invest into others’ lives. The results are astounding.

In the same exact way, Polk County is understanding the value of children pursuing their passion at a young age and is doing everything it can to encourage greater education in students’ areas of interest. This month will be the official ribbon cutting of the Central Florida Aerospace Academy located on the Sun N Fun grounds. At an early age these students are accelerated into the science fields with emphasis on areas of education like science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and other areas beyond a level they would achieve at a traditional high school. Last month we did a feature on the opportunity the students had to communicate with a space station.

This month will also mark the time for the annual Sun N Fun Fly-In. There will be crowds galore of people embracing their passions. This event is a great excuse for a family outing, especially since Saturday will feature a performance by the Blue Angels. For some children, their passion may lie in athletics, music, or art, but it’s important to expose our children to the many facets of life and opportunities available. Sun N Fun is not only a fun experience, but full of educational opportunities as well. Check out our feature this month to learn more.

Mike Floyd Publisher

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Local » Focus

10th Annual American Cancer Society Cattle Baron’s Ball R Written By: Taylor Flumerfelt

esidents of Lakeland showed off their best Western garb Saturday, February 19th at the 10th annual American Cancer Society Cattle Baron’s Ball.

Held at Bunch Ranch in Highland City, the home of David and Jean Bunch, the Cattle Baron’s Ball came to Lakeland from a volunteer of a Texas Division of the American Cancer Society who participated in planning a similar ball in Texas.

At 6 p.m., attendees were greeted by the country music sounds of Patrick Gibson.

Dinner was catered by GrillSmith and Spunky Spirits provided an open-bar for the occasion. Participants were able to take part in a live auction as well as a silent auction to bid for items donated by various community sponsors. Other activities included games of Cornhole, caricature sketches, taking keepsake photographs, and a “Diamond Dip” that allowed attendees to take a chance on

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picking a champagne glass that contained either a diamond or cubic zirconia.

Not only was Bright House Networks the presenting sponsor for this event, but Bright House’s own Jennifer Holloway served as the emcee for the night. Bright House Networks has been the sponsor of Lakeland’s Cattle Baron’s Ball for all 10 years now. GEICO provided a valet service to attendees and the “Amazin’ Grazin’” food-centered area of the event was sponsored by Publix Supermarkets.

In addition, nearly 75 volunteers contributed to the success of this function.

The venue and musical talent might have changed over the years, but the ball has continued to revolve around a Western them. Past taglines for this event include “Hollywood Cowboy,” “Florida Cowboy,” “Vegas Cowboy,” and “Cajun Cowboy.”

Eunice Hutto, Executive Director of the

Bartow/Fort Meade, West Polk, and East Polk County American Cancer Society units, noted that the Cattle Baron’s Ball is “geared toward anyone who wishes to support the endeavors of the American Cancer Society.

This event allows the American Cancer Society to hold an upscale fundraiser, in a casual atmosphere.”

Tickets were sold for $100 each and the cost of sponsoring a table was $1,500.

Approximately 350 people attended the event.

All of the money raised from this fundraiser will be utilized for cancer research, scholarships, summer camps for children with cancer, and community educational programs.

“The community has been tremendously supportive of this event, and all American Cancer Society events. This event means

that we can work together as a community to plan a fun evening that will help raise funds for those patients and families battling cancer. Many of those are our friends and neighbors. This event also means that we have a local presence here and are available for anyone that needs to stop by our office for support or resources during their battle with cancer,” Hutto explained.

The Lakeland division of the American Cancer Society intends to continue putting on this unique event in order to provide hope for those who are a part of the fight against cancer.

An upcoming American Cancer Society event is Relay for Life, which will be held in cities across the nation, including Lakeland, throughout the months of April and May. For more information, visit www.relayforlife.org

Adventure Two BOING! Jump Center

T

his month the staff at FOCUS Mag azine departed on another adventure as part of the 11 Adventures of 2011. Last month we tore up the race track at Ambassador Racing School in Wimauma. This time we planned our adrenaline trip to a hugely popu lar BOING Jump Center in the Brandon/Tampa area.

If you missed our report in the Novemb er 2010 issue of Brandon FOCUS, here ’s the deal: BOING! is a vast high-flying indoor jump center made of 11,000 square feet of trampolines covering huge arenas from floor-to-w all.

We strapped on some specially desig ned jumping shoes, lined up for a few rules, and then we began a tour. We first approached a huge arena designed for free-style jump ing and acrobatics.

The bounce mats are gridded off into sections with padded borders to keep the trampoline taut to provide the highest jumping poss ible. The walls are pitched to assist with acrobatic tricks. In the center stands a column made of yet more trampolines.

After we got the okay from the refer ee we all clamored onto the bounce mats like puppies and fanned out across the arena. Julie, Holl y, and Angel jumped in and took a few minutes to get acclimated to the sensation of being airborne. The guys, Mike Floyd, Anth ony, Tony, and Jason seemed bound to impress upon one another who would be the first expe rt jumper.

It was just a few minutes in and we were all panting! Our second wind came , though, and, feeling reenergized, we began to take on more daring tricks; Mike challenge d Anthony to see if he could jump across each long secti on of trampoline landing but once, as he could do. The kids ran around with their protective helm ets on and had a blast right alongside the adults.

Sweaty after ten minutes, we all walk ed out of the freestyle area and up the steps into the dodge ball arenas. Colored balls lay on the center line, ready for us to grab them and await the referee to signal the start of the gam e. As we would soon discover, players enjoy a super intense match, leaping high over line drives while beaming a ball down on your oppo nent from 10 feet in the air, and getting speed on your throws from inertia that couldn’t othe rwise be mustered if not flying toward your opponent in midair. It’s more like dodge ball played in a spaceship than compared to playing it in your grandmo ther’s driveway.

Several employees brought their kids along, too. “Just as many high school and college-aged people come here as kids do, and mayb e even north of that,” said Michael Can ales, owner, in our original inter view in September.

“We definitely have activities for all ages as long as you can get on a trampoline.”

We found that playing dodge ball again st kids turned out to be a challenge.

One could clobber a child in baseball easily, but one could not so easily clobber a child in BOING! dodge ball, where, compared to you, children are smaller and sometimes more dexterou s. Trying to hit them was like trying to shoot a crick et with a bb gun. But, we adults, too, had advantages over the kids. All in all, we found this to be a wonderful and unique medium in which to play on equal footing with our kids. In that regar d, compared to other physical activities, this might be one of the best of its kind.

We walked down the steps and craw led, one at a time, through a trap door into the “Aero ball” arenas, a game where two-teams-oftwo get on individual trampolines and try to score points by leaping high and shooting a ball into the goal above the opponent ’s head.

Four played at a time, giving the rest of us a chance to pat down our foreheads and rest in front of a huge blowing fan positioned on the sideline.

We had a blast, being physically wipe d out after about an hour. We all felt that the great cardio and muscular exercise, besides the insan e fun, was arguably the best feeling from going to BOING! After our hour was up we realized we had received one of the best and most unique workouts of our lives. Jumping and learn ing new stunts was almost as intense as trying to beat children at BOING! dodge ball.

See you next month for another editi on of FOCUS Magazine’s 11 Adventur es in 2011.

In the meantime, bounce over to BOI NG! and see what we’re talking abou t! Visit www. boingjumpcenter.com for more info.

Go Online To Check Out THe full

Video at

www.myfocustv.com FocusTV > Plant City

FOCUS Magazine lakeland FOCUS MAGAZINE WINTER HAVEN march MARCH 2011

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Local » Focus

Attendees could eat and mingle with Tiger players while listening to the melodies of Rich Mistretta.

The marquee at the entrance to Joker Marchant Stadium welcomed Tiger fans to the night’s festivities.

The 65th annual Detroit Tigers Barbecue T Written By: Taylor Flumerfelt

he 65th annual Detroit Tigers Barbecue was held on Tuesday, February 22nd.

Lakeland is home to the Tigers’ Spring Training and the barbecue proves to be an enjoyable way to usher in the year’s professional baseball season.

The barbecue was held at none other than the Joker Marchant Stadium, home to Detroit’s minor league baseball team, the Lakeland Flying Tigers. It is held every year with the idea of having fun in mind. It is an event that simply welcomes the Tigers to their Spring Training home and gives those who live in Lakeland the opportunity to support a team that has helped Lakeland to flourish economically.

This function is hosted every year by the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce. Amy Wiggins, Vice President of Communications at the chamber, explained that “the Chamber

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was an instrumental player in bringing the Detroit Tigers to Spring Training in Lakeland in the 30’s and has been welcoming the Tigers with the Annual Tiger BBQ since the 40’s. Because the Chamber works very closely with the City of Lakeland on tourism and marketing, our Convention & Visitor’s Bureau plays a key role in Tiger Relations with the city. This year marks the 65th Annual Tiger BBQ, a tradition that the city, its residents and Tiger fans alike are proud to support.”

The festivities started at 6:00 p.m. with musical entertainment from Rich Mistretta of one of Lakeland’s own bands, the Sofa Kings. Mistretta has played an integral part in the Tiger Barbecue for several years now. Attendees enjoyed Italian Sausage, Charbroiled Steak, shrimp, roast corn, Barbecue Ribs, an ice cream treat and much more catered by Jimbo’s Pit BBQ, Texas

Cattle Company, and Dairy Queen.

Tickets could be purchased ahead of time for $50 each for adults and $25 each for children 12 years of age and under. Even though it is a no-autograph event, the barbecue allows participants to meet and socialize with current Tiger players, Tiger legends, members of the Tiger management staff, and Tiger family members.

Each year, Tiger fans from far and wide join community leaders, city officials, and many others to kick-off the Tigers Spring Training.

Approximately 600 Tiger fans and other supporters attended the celebration, serving as evidence of the growth the Tiger Barbecue has experienced over the past 65 years.

The barbecue was presented by Watson Clinic, LLP and made possible with the help of GEICO, Polk County Sports Marketing,

the City of Lakeland, Texas Cattle Company, and Lakeland Electric.

This year’s Tiger Barbecue was particularly special because the turn of the new year marked the 75th anniversary of Tiger Spring Training. Wiggins emphasized that “this is a major milestone, and marks the longest standing relationship in Major League Baseball.” This event was just one of the many festivities that were part of the weeklong celebration of this landmark.

The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce plans to continue to host this event and support the team. The annual Detroit Tigers Barbecue has enriched the history and individuality of Lakeland. Without a doubt, the residents of Lakeland are proud to share their home with the Tigers.

Local » Focus

Sounds of laughterWednesday, liftedJanuaryto19ththe rafters Mark Lowry took the of the Polk Theatre stage for a good cause.

L Written By: Taylor U. Flumerfelt

owry is a Christian comedian and artist who, for 13 years, was a member of the Gaither Vocal Band. For two years the Department of Communication at Lakeland’s own Southeastern University has served as the headquarters for his webcasts named “Saturday’s with Mark and Tony.”

John Pierce, Department of Communication chair at Southeastern University, met Lowry three years ago at an on-campus event. “We struck up a great conversation and had an immediate rapport. I showed him our broadcast studio and talked about the type of work our students do. He had mentioned that he does a webcast discussing the hot-potatoes of Christian topics. I offered the use of our studio and the help of the Introduction to TV and Advanced TV student crews and he jumped at the chance to utilize our facilities… He was so

impressed with our studio and the caliber of our students, that he wanted to continue working with us… It was during this time that a friendship was cultivated.”

As the relationship between Lowry and the Department of Communication grew, Pierce asked Lowry about the possibility of hosting a benefit concert. Lowry gladly agreed and later explained that “because they have given so graciously,” he “wanted to give back to this department, in particular.”

In response to Lowry’s generosity, Southeastern University students volunteered their time during the event helping guests to their seats, working the concession stand, selling Lowry merchandise, accommodating all needs backstage, and even performing with Lowry and his pianist, Stan Whitmire.

The night began with several songs

performed by Lowry and Whitmire with pieces of Lowry’s comedy interspersed. As the night progressed, performances such as “There Will Come a Day,” originally by Faith Hill, featuring Southeastern University’s Theatrical Dance students and “Yes, My Jesus Loves Me,” originally by Mary McDonald, featuring Southeastern University’s Chamber Singers filled the line-up.

A VIP meet-and-greet event followed and featured refreshments by Fresco’s Bakery & Bistro and an opportunity to not only get Lowry’s autograph, but also to have a picture taken with him.

Ticket sales were brisk, with 913 sold for approximately $10,000 in profits to benefit the university’s Department of Communication.

“An immediate blessing is that the funds

raised have enabled us to attend the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Regional Festival. Our students who were nominated to participate in Irene Ryan Scholarship Competition and the Stage Management Fellowship programs will have the opportunity to perform for a national audience as well as learn from professionals from all over the world,” Pierce gratefully remarked.

The genuine relationship between Lowry and Southeastern University has had a positive impact on both parties.

When asked what Southeastern University means to him, Lowry responded “Well, first of all, it’s one of the most beautiful campuses I’ve ever been to. If I was a young person I would definitely consider attending there.

Also, it’s the students. I love their hearts for discovering God and how to live life.

FOCUS Magazine lakeland march 2011

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MARCH 19 & 25 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

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

APRIL 8, 16, 23 & 30 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

MAY 6 BOBBY PALERMO

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

APRIL 9 & 22 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

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

APRIL 24 EASTER SUNDAY BUFFET

APRIL 29 RICHIE MERRITT

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

A tribute to two of music’s historical cutting age acts Buddy Holly & The Beatles. BeatleBeat previously performed at Disney’s Epcot and was a big crowd pleaser. If you loved Holly and the Beatles, this is an act not to miss! Plus, Holly’s Cadillac, which also took the Beatles to Shea Stadium in the 60s, will be here to see!

APRIL 2 BOB RYMAN

“THE FIDDLER”

Bob Ryman “The Fiddler” was a legend in the area for many years when The Red Rose was Lani Purcell’s Holiday Inn and was also a favorite at The Florida Strawberry Festival®. Because of his fans’ requests, The Red Rose Inn is bringing “The Fiddler” back.

P.J.Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds will open & close the show in the Red Rose Ballroom.

MAY 7, 13, 20 & 28 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

A grand buffet fit for Anybunny!

Freshly prepared salads, seafood, beef, ham, vegetables and desserts (including chocolate fountains) and much more! Serving times: 12 Noon, 2:30 p.m. & 5:00 p.m. For your musical entertainment, Destiny performs. Call to reserve your table in the Ballroom.

MARCH 26 BUDDY HOLLY & THE BEATLES TRIBUTE SHOW

Bobby Palermo brings you a night full of humor, impersonations and high energy audience interaction.

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Destiny will open and close the show.

MAY 6 & 7 LOST IN THE 50S WITH BILL HALEY’S COMETS

A 2-day event that will “Rock Around the Clock” & “Shake, Rattle & Roll” in the Red Rose Ballroom with Bill Haley’s Comets.

They were regulars on Dick Clark’s American Bandstand, their music was featured in the film “American Graffiti” and the TV hit “Happy Days.”

PJ Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds will also perform before and after the show.

MAY 14 & 27 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

A dynamite crowd pleaser!

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

MAY 21 LOLA &

THE SAINTS

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

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FOCUS Magazine lakeland march 2011

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Feature» sun n’ Fun

Lo o k ! u p i n t h e a i r !

A N N U A L S U N N ’ F U N F LY- I N R E A D Y T O S O A R Written By: Brian WesT

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Feature» sun n’ Fun

g

et ready, Lakeland. Spring has arrived, and you know what that means.

It’s time for the Annual Sun n Fun International Fly-In and Expo. Yes, the roads and airways will soon be congested with visitors in every traditional mode of travel, except boats – and you may even see that if you look hard enough.

As a young boy, I still remember the yearly ritual of planes flying over our home during the annual event. We lived just inside the eastern Hillsborough County boundary, about half a mile across the county line and directly west of the airport. Planes would fly overhead for days. It was always interesting to see the old bi-planes. And there always seemed to be dozens of planes in the skies at any given time. I never attended the event as a child, but I always knew that if I had, it would’ve been even more memorable than just watching from the yard.

2011 marks the 37th anniversary of the Sun n’ Fun event. It grows each year and continues to get better and better. Thousands descend on the area to view aviation history – old and new. Visitors will find aircraft from most every decade since flight was invented, including both civilian and military aircraft. The most technologically advanced airplane ever built, the F-22 Raptor, will make an appearance again this year. Its first appearance a few years ago was the first public appearance ever.

This year’s event takes place March 29th – April 3rd – about 2 weeks earlier than last year. The adjustment was made to accommodate several vendors who would have otherwise only had a day between events – the Sun n’ Fun and an event in Germany. So the Sun n’ Fun staff worked with the organizers of the German event to make a 10-year agreement on event dates.

That shows you just how important each event is, and how important they are to each other.

The key headliner this year is the Blue Angels and their C-130 transport, which they lovingly refer to as “Fat Albert.” The team will arrive Thursday, March 31st and according to Jim Brenneger, “They will pretty much take over the area. Because they fly visually (VFR versus IFR), they’ll have to spend some time getting a sense of the air space.” There will be an opportunity for interviews with the press on Thursday morning. On Friday morning, the pilots will be out in the community and visiting local hospitals.

There are also plans to recognize a

significant development of the 58,000 square foot, three story high school that will house the Central Florida Aerospace Academy. The ground breaking was held during last year’s Sun n’ Fun and the students actually moved into the new building March 1st. It is quite a structure and the result of a very generous donation

by James Ray and his foundation. This will allow students to study through STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. Students from surrounding area can study under this program and learn things that will prepare them to pursue careers in aviation. The building represents a very symbolic feature to Sun n’ Fun, which is part of their mission – education. The Florida Air Museum is located across from the new building and provides a hands-on opportunity.

Brenegger said, “One thing people must understand is that we could not put on this event without our volunteers. More than 2800 enlist for the 6-day event to help with everything from parking to security to air operations, and even a volunteer kitchen.

They’ve had volunteers on the grounds since September just helping to get prepared for the event.

Sun n’ Fun offers so much that they’ve created an app. Yes, if you have an iPad, iPhone or iTouch, there’s an app for the event. The free app has just about every piece of information you could want including . several links built into the app one for Sun n’ Fun and one for Sporty’s Pilot Shops.

The app provides maps of the area, including the campgrounds and the tram routes. Each day’s schedule includes shows, forums, and a complete list of exhibitors with connection links to their web pages. If you’re an app person and someone who’s interested in aviation and the Sun n’ Fun event, this is a must have. If you’re thinking of attending, this app provides so much valuable information.

Brenneger said, “As a Droid user, I feel completely left out.”

There are several significant evening programs; 100 Years of Aviation, Desert Storm: A 20-Year Retrospective (yes, it’s been 20 years since Desert Storm), An Evening with the EAA Presidents, the Night Air Show (which will be supplemented with fireworks) and The

Future of General Aviation. John Peterson, with the Arlington Foundation, will provide a view of the future of Aviation 2020.

Brenneger said, “Anyone interested in the future of aviation and how we’ll be getting around, will want to hear this. It’s very interesting.

There will also be a number of significant evening dinners. On Monday, March 28th, the Florida Air Museum will host their annual gala, Pre-Flight Night, themed around the 100th Anniversary of aviation.

This provides a great opportunity for local businesses to get involved. Funds raised will go directly to the Florida Air Museum.

On Wednesday evening, Sun n’ Fun will collaborate with the Lindbergh Foundation, which is dedicated to preserving the principles of Charles Lindbergh and his wife, Anne, and their commitment to the pursuit of technology that is in balance with the environment. Each year, the foundation honors businesses and corporations that have demonstrated that balance. Tickets and table sponsorships are still available for the event.

Two new opportunities for attendees this year have VIP ticket options – Flight Line Club, which places ticket holders in the center of the flight line, with beer, wine and food available throughout the day. The second option is called the 927 Circle. This option is available on a weekly basis, and includes a corporate sponsorship opportunity. It includes use of an air conditioned chalet with good toilet facilities, great food, beer and wine, and is located next to the performers. Meanwhile, those special guests have an opportunity to rub shoulders with other VIPs of the event. As they say, price brings privilege. If there is a celebrity at the event, they’ll be at the 927 Circle.

Speaking of food, Abuelo’s and Fred’s Market will be on-hand to provide food for the event. There will also be nightly

offerings at Sunset Grill.

There will also be more than 500 exhibitors, 270 forums – all staged within classrooms in the Central Florida Aerospace Academy.

This will be a far cry from the previous setting for the forums. In past years, attendees gathered under tents and sat in semi-circles (in the heat). Now, attendees will be in the comfort of air-conditioned classrooms, which will make a world of difference to the overall experience. A complete range of subjects will be offered.

The Lindbergh Foundation will have a series of forums on Thursday – including discussions on electric airplanes. The forums simply and casually provide a lot of information to those interested in aviation.

As always, safety is a continual focus. The event has experienced a few tragedies over the years, but each and every year, the organizers work very hard to learn and improve, all in an effort to avoid accidents.

Many who attend choose to avoid the event congestion and fly in to other local airports. Brenneger said, “Of course, we’d rather have them here because it would make things even more interesting for those attending the show.” They work diligently to coordinate everything with an eye to safety, but as Brenneger said, “Unfortunately, airplanes are machines, and machines fail.”

One other interesting portion of this year’s event is an aircraft auction. Sun n’ Fun is collaborating with AVID Aircraft Auctions to auction off a few planes. The auction will be held both live and online. It will take place at the east end of the campus on Wednesday and Thursday from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Buyers and sellers can visit the website to register in advance. The plan is to continue to work with the company to hold additional auctions on the Sun n’ Fun campus throughout the year.

Sun n’ Fun offers so much. Whether you’re young or old, everyone seems to be fascinated with flight, and what a better way to enjoy than in our own backyard. If you plan to attend, bring ample sunscreen. They don’t call it Sun n Fun for nothing. Each and every year, the event seems to attract the best weather possible – clear blue skies. It makes for a perfect backdrop to watch planes, but it’s also a great opportunity to get too much sun before you realize it. Be prepared and the event will be that much more enjoyable.

We hope to see you there. For questions or additional information, please visit the event website at www.sun-n-fun.org.

FOCUS Magazine lakeland march 2011

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e b o t d e s o you’re supp y t l i u g n e v o r p l i t n u t n e c inno rings b t c e j o r ocence P n n I a d System i e c i t Flor s u J y to the t i r g e t n I n WesT

intervieW By: Bria

tice system is s ju r u o , s e s a c l a n crimin y a threshold of b t il u g h s li b ta s e supposed to ut, from time to B ” t. b u o d le b a n o “beyond a reas s innocent e m ti e m o s . g n ro it w time the jury gets idn’t commit; d y e th s e m ri c r fo people go to jail ppen. and when it a h s e o d it , re ra ’s although it e against m ri c a d te it m m o c has does, our process e project c n e c o n in a d ri o Fl the individual. The rimes against the c e th t h g ri to d e h was establis carcerated for in n e e b e v a h t a th innocent; those na testing, d h g u ro h T . it m m o c crimes they didn’t someone’s e in rm te e d to d e view evidence can be re onable doubt. in s a re a d n o y e b – guilt or innocence lped during e h e v a h y a m g n ti tes many cases, dna didn’t exist. We t s ju y g lo o n h c te the trial, but the s with seth miller, te u in m w fe a t n e recently sp nce project. e c o n in a d ri o Fl e of th executive director

i

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Focus: How did you get involved with the Florida Innocence Project?

Miller: I got into this sort of by happenstance while I was in Law School at Florida State University. We had a crisis in Florida. The state Legislature decided they were going to institute a deadline on filing for DNA testing to prove your innocence after you’re convicted. Florida had hundreds of cases that needed to be filed and there was no Innocence Project to accomplish it, and there was only 10 months to accomplish it.

Barry Scheck came down from New York in 2003 and gave a presentation on the project. I saw the presentation as a student and thought it was a really good opportunity to get involved with something important.

I was able to get a fellowship to be involved that summer and that’s really the history for me. It began a love affair for me doing human interest work for people who’ve been marginalized by society; people who’ve had their rights taken away for no reason.

Focus: Can you explain the process?

Miller: Florida has a prison population of 104,000 people, the third largest prison population in the country. People write to us proclaiming their innocence and we have the difficult task of trying to separate the wheat from the chaff. We use a very stringent criterion to help us determine if we can take the case. Biological evidence must be available. We have someone in the office who does the initial review of the request and corresponds with the family or the individual. Then we make what is called a Case Acceptance Recommendation Decision. We process about 1000 requests for assistance each year and that number is narrowed down to about 10-12 new cases each year. So you can imagine the processes in place to be able to do this. It’s a lot of work. Then, if we take the case, we do all the work. We’ll file the documents, pay for DNA testing and try the case.

Focus: Have you discovered any controversy with your work? You’re actually changing decisions that were made by a jury.

Miller: I wouldn’t say there’s any controversy with our work. The work we do really has the potential to do one of three things: confirm the jury’s verdict which brings confidence to the justice system; explain the role of the jury - that despite our best efforts – including limitations with science or should biological evidence have been degraded, we just don’t get anything through testing that can help us; and confirm that our client was not the perpetrator. People get convicted for all kinds of reasons, and even though a jury gives their best effort, sometimes they get it wrong. People make incorrect identifications.

Some people think this is astonishing, but it happens; people confess to crimes they didn’t

commit for all sorts of reasons. People are in the wrong place at the wrong time. So there are reasons people get wrongfully convicted and that’s why we do DNA testing. It can tell us if we got it right. The biological evidence tells the story. Some people in the prosecutor’s office don’t agree with us, but when the evidence is clear, there’s absolutely no controversy to what we do.

Focus: Do you keep track of the numbers that have applied to your office compared to those that have been reviewed and finally those that were exonerated?

Miller: It’s kind of hard. Ninety-eight percent of the requests we receive aren’t accepted. If you look at the cases where we do testing, about 40% of the time we don’t get a result for one reason or another; the biological evidence has degraded or there just wasn’t enough available. In about 30-40 percent of the cases, we’re able to confirm guilt through testing, which is unfortunate.

We’d love for people not to tell us that they need our help and we do all the investigation and find all these reasons that they may be innocent, then test and confirm their guilt.

It’s a waste of our time and resources, but it’s a reality of our process. Approximately 20% of our cases reveal an exclusionary result; the person did not commit the crime. That leads to about 1 or 2 people a year who get out of jail. But it’s hard to put numbers on this because we sometimes work on cases for years.

Focus: Most of the cases you’re reviewing are violent crimes.

Miller: Yes, that’s correct. These are mostly rapes or homicides, which makes sense because those are the cases with strong biological components to them. There are other types of cases though, such as burglaries or robberies. Sometimes the perpetrator will leave behind a piece of clothing, a mask or gloves. We’ve had cases in which the perpetrator left their blood at the scene, maybe through a broken window, and that’s great evidence. We also work on vehicular homicide cases because airbags hold great evidence. When the airbag goes off, it has impact with the face of the driver, so we’re able to determine who was actually driving the vehicle. So if there’s a way to determine who the perpetrator was through biological evidence, then we’re going to do that.

Focus: What drew you to this type of work?

Miller: I don’t have a disparaging opinion against other types of lawyer work, but I would say that in any other type, people’s jobs are important and everyone has a role to play. Whatever you’re doing, you have to do it well because most of the time people are depending on you. Folks in prison really are

the most marginalized people in America.

We incarcerate more people in this country than anywhere in the world, per capita. We take them and put them in places where no one has to see them. We take away their rights, yet they’re still human beings. So it’s a tragedy to be incarcerated to begin with.

We incarcerate people for a really long time in not great conditions. Now take the same position as someone who’s innocent and think of the toll it would take on you. You’ve gone through the legal process and been convicted. If you proclaimed your innocence, no one believed you. So in many cases, we’re their last hope for freedom. But more importantly, our work has a great impact.

Not only is there a great impact to the individual and their families, but also to the lawyers. Walking someone out of prison after 35 years of incarceration is a surreal moment.

The work is then having this broader effect in helping to change the way we do criminal justice in Florida. We’re starting to realize why wrongful convictions happen and trying to correct them going forward. If we understand our faults and the things that go wrong and we’re not in denial, we can prevent them in the future. Innocence is one of those things that pretty much universally, people believe that an innocent person shouldn’t be sent to prison for a crime they didn’t commit. Since there is such broad agreement, it allows us to make progress in making the system fairer.

times and was denied by the court each time. So here’s a guy trying to do it on his own, with no legal education, and the court just keeps denying him. In 2009 we heard about him and were able to get involved in his case. We were able to get the state to agree to DNA testing. We tested the underwear of the victim. We figured it’s a 9-year-old boy; there shouldn’t be any semen foreign to him in his underwear.

Fortunately it was still preserved 35 years later. We had the semen tested and about 5 weeks later the results indicated the semen did not belong to our client, Mr. Bain, or the victim. Unfortunately, Mr. Bain set the record for spending more time in prison than anyone else who’s been exonerated through DNA testing in the United States. He’s a pretty amazing person and being able to endure all that is remarkable. There was poor representation for him. There was a rush to judgment. It was a bad identification Miller and his colleagues are doing some amazing work, and much needed work.

Imagine spending 35 years of your life in prison for a crime you didn’t commit. Which 35 years would you be willing to give up?

Thanks for all your hard work. We wish you mush success in the future. Thanks also to the Florida Innocence Project for representing Mr. Bain and many others wrongfully committed.

Focus: Tell me about the James Bain case.

Miller: James was our client.

Here’s a guy who at the age of 18 was convicted of raping a 9-yearold boy. It’s a pretty heinous crime. And it was especially sensitive since it involved a child. In less than 3 months he was charged and convicted.

He spent 35 years in prison. It wasn’t until 2001 that he asked for DNA testing.

He asked five separate FOCUS Magazine lakeland march 2011

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extra » al reuchel get go because it failed to tie together the two major airports and Pinellas in a way that would have insured ridership by attracting the folks who do most of the traveling: business folks and tourists. Now, if that train had a way to get 18-wheelers on and off that stinking stretch of I-4 I’d even hold a fundraiser on its behalf.

So if its not rail.. at least not yet… what is it? Try education-- building partnerships with the companies that produce the jobs and the institutions that are producing the job seekers.

And it needs to reach down lower than that. Cue the fireworks. For arguments sake let’s get away from the teacher salary loggerhead. Somebody, somewhere has to have the courage and guts and smarts for us to answer these simple questions.

1. How can we best educate our children?

The word “best” is such a tricky thing in a democracy where we want every child to be able to have equal opportunity to become whatever they want. When you find a one-size-fits-all education plan… let me know.

On the verge of something!

Y Written By: Al Reuchel

ou get the sense the Tampa Bay Region is on the verge of something if you can figure out what that something is.

For the past several months we all thought it might be high speed rail with its promise to tie Tampa, Orlando and Miami into this giant super destination. Sorry that Pinellas was left out of the picture.

Well, for a billion and a half reasons that all start with S and end in TT that was

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taken away. I’m kind of a science geek so anything that goes fast and is cool and filled with exciting possibilities turns my crank, so to speak. I still can’t get over that the shuttle program is going away.

This is going to be one huge bummer of a summer.

Back to rail, I talked with the folks who crunched the numbers on both sides and it appeared to be the old moon is made of green cheese, or is it Swiss argument. No one would go so far as to say someone was

lying… but something didn’t quite fit.

Let’s not pretend there weren’t a lot of reasons for and against the project particularly from one of the guys who was responsible for making sure the state secured the right away on which to build the rail.

Former State Senator Jim Sebesta loves rail and still believes is does fit in the picture…. somewhere. He says this particular plan was ill conceived from the

2. Are we as a society willing do whatever it takes to make that wonder plan happen?

In theory, maybe yes, but in reality the answer is no. We only tend to fund what gives us the most outcome right now.

When the economy is so tight we are too worried about paying today’s bills, much less tomorrow’s dreams. Parents would be for it… some fixed income folks, seniors, couples without kids… might find it hard to swallow.

3.Do we even care if the United States regains its position as one of the most innovative, educated nations in the world?

Put me down as a yes on that. I’m not so sure the rest of the electorate feels that way. Heck, they barely show up at the polls to vote for their own leaders.

And here’s the bottom line on this “verge of something” idea. Until we can all agree on what that is and dedicate even just a portion of our energy in that direction the Tampa Bay region will always been known as the rejoin that HAD a super bowl champion, that HAD a Stanley Cup champion, that HAD a world series contender, that HAD a shuttle program.

Looking in the rearview mirror is no way to get to the future.

Business profile» Helping Hands, Caring Hearts, Inc. by a team of dependable, accommodating and friendly caregivers. Attention to detail, reliability, and integrity are hallmarks of the Helping Hands, Caring Hearts, Inc. business philosophy.

Affordability means families won’t pay medical prices for non-medical services.

Caregiver assistance can include elder care, live-in care, hospice, Alzheimer’s care, meal preparation, and help with shopping, errands, appointments, maintenance and so on.

Following is a list of typical services available, but flexibility and meeting clients’ needs are specialties, so don’t hesitate to inquire if what your family needs is not mentioned here: • Assistance with everyday chores, housekeeping, & home organization • Cleaning appliances & cupboards • Grocery & general shopping, clipping coupons, meal planning & preparation • Diet monitoring • Maintenance, deliveries and lawn care • Ironing, laundry, dry cleaning pick up/drop off, sewing • Medication & appointment reminders, pharmacy pick up/drop off

• Companionship & conversation, entertainment, light exercise and walking

Written By: Cheryl Johnston

H

elping Hands, Caring Hearts, Inc. is a company with solutions.

Since 2007, Leonard Barfield and his staff of compassionate caregivers have helped hundreds of families accommodate the needs of an elderly parent or member with special needs.

• Escort to lunch/dinner, clubs, sporting events, lectures, plays or concerts • Escort to religious services • Recreational activities, outings, trips; cards, games & crafts participation • Transportation, errands, airline departure & arrival Respite care for family caregivers

Their company has taken the worry away from immediate family members and replaced it with appreciation because the family has assurance their loved one is in good hands. In fact, they still serve their very first client.

The family owned firm, based in Plant City, provides non-medical home care in Hillsborough, Highlands, and Polk counties

References are available upon request. Many satisfied customers are happy to share their experiences about HHCH. One testimonial

by Amy T. is representative of the positive feedback the Barfields receive about company staff and service. “Being a long distance caregiver (I live in WI; Mom is in FL), it is essential to have people I can trust and rely on to care for my mother. Helping Hands Caring Hearts beat out everyone else I interviewed in person several years ago. The owners and staff have always been caring, cooperative, compassionate, flexible and accessible to both my mother and me.

Besides meeting my mother’s every need, they have kept me completely informed as to how she is doing. I highly recommend this firm. My mother and I are extremely blessed to have them in our lives.”

Telephones are answered 24/7 and service is available for as little as 3 hours to 24 hours/ day every day of the week. HHCH also commits to communicate regularly to assure clients are well satisfied and all concerns are addressed. For your convenience, payment options include personal check, Long Term Care Insurance, and Medicaid.

HHCH is a giver in the community, too.

Leonard Barfield believes that “a profitable, growing business should, from its abundance, invest in the community that sustains it. In appreciation we individually and corporately invest in selected philanthropic activities in the areas we serve.”

• Pet or plant care

Helping Hands, Caring Hearts Assisted Living in Your Home

What sets HHCH care apart from other providers is their goal to help clients live in their own homes as long as possible. Step one in the inquiry process is a free in-home assessment and a determination as to which caregiver would best serve that particular patient.

The professional, dependable and carefully screened caregivers are selected through a rigorous interviewing process. The Barfields believe “a well-trained, highly motivated staff is the most important element of client service,” so they select, train, and reward staff who place customer satisfaction first.

For new peace of mind, visit the company website at www.HelpingUFL. com or e-mail the owner at Leonard@ helpinghandscaringhearts.com. Phone 813737-6706 in Hillsborough County or 863812-4752 in Polk and Highlands County.

Helping Hands, Caring Hearts, Inc. 1514 Mendonsa Rd, Suite 207, Plant City, Fl 33565 P.O. Box 1954, Valrico, Fl 33595 License: #230092 (813) 737-6706 Fax: (813) 704-4421 Polk & Highlands Counties: (863) 812-4752 leonard@helpinghandcaringhearts.com

FOCUS Magazine lakeland march 2011

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Make a difference and be a volunteer

Watson Clinic Foundation, Inc.

B

eginning the summer of 2007, the Watson Clinic Foundation introduced a new program at the Center For Cancer Care & Research (CCCR) which involves wonderful outreach opportunities for cancer patients and their families. "Arts In Medicine” (AIM) is a nationwide movement that integrates the expressive arts in all forms into health care settings to provide creative outlets for patients, families and staff.

The inherent goal in AIM is to humanize the care provided while offering creative channels for expression, stress reduction and enhancement of positive thought processes. There is an "artist" within each of us and no talent or training is necessary to experience the rewards of creative expression.

Trained volunteers offer music, visual art, story time, lobby presentations and outreach craft programs.. These activities can be experienced on many levels. Some patients may just want to relax and listen to music during their treatment while others may need to go deeper into themselves to gain a better understanding of their situation. Whether involving painting, poetry or musical celebration, the Arts In Medicine volunteers are open and receptive to the needs of patients and their family members.

“Research actually shows that creative outlets reduce anxiety in patients with cancer and blood diseases,” says Caueny Bamberg, Executive Director the Watson Clinic Foundation. “The Arts in Medicine program,” Bamberg continues, “creates an environment that is more conducive to healing, both physically and psychologically.”

Further research indicates that artistic expression raises circulating endorphin and natural cancer-fighting cell levels, while cooperative play-acting and theatre games raise pain thresholds and creative writing lessens the physical symptoms of asthma and arthritis.

The Arts In Medicine Team is privileged to work with patients and families at the CCCR. “Our program runs on the talents of our volunteers. Crafty, artsy or not, our volunteers compassionately give of their time and talents to benefit the wellbeing of our patients,” says Julie Boon MM, MT-BC AIM Coordinator.

If you are interested in supporting this program thru the Watson Clinic Foundation, please contact Cauney Bamberg, Executive Director at (863) 802-6221 or at cbamberg@watsonclinic.com. Inquiries of becoming a volunteer or donating supplies contact Julie Boon AIM Coordinator at (863)603-4718 or at jboon@watsonclinic.com

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Take a free online heart health assessment and receive a complimentary healthy heart kit.

Know Your Heart St. Joseph’s Hospitals and South Florida Baptist Hospital offer you more heart care experience than anyone else in Tampa. Our network of physicians are committed to treating the whole heart patient.

With comprehensive heart services including education, prevention and screenings, diagnostics, surgery and rehabilitation, we can help you know your heart. And keep it healthy.

(813) 644-4315 KnowYourHeart.org

BC100967-1110

FOCUS Magazine lakeland march 2011

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march 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

Take a free online heart health assessment and receive a complimentary healthy heart kit.

Know Your Heart St. Joseph’s Hospitals and South Florida Baptist Hospital offer you more heart care experience than anyone else in Tampa. Our network of physicians are committed to treating the whole heart patient.

With comprehensive heart services including education, prevention and screenings, diagnostics, surgery and rehabilitation, we can help you know your heart. And keep it healthy.

(813) 644-4315 KnowYourHeart.org

BC2110014-0111

FOCUS Magazine lakeland march 2011

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entertainment » dining review covered in harsh sauces. The deserts appear simple but hit hard; the chocolate cake looks like a brownie and tastes amazing.

Photo by Tony Cartagena

During our visit, watching the large staff work was interesting in itself. “Our service is excellent. We have nine servers on duty all the time,” said Phil. The restaurant is proud of its immaculately clean, continually swept floors.

Ling’s Buffet is large inside, seating a maximum of 350 guests. The restaurant does well with large reservations, holding party rooms designed to fit 80 and 25 people. For reservations of eight or more, call the number below.

Photo by Tony Cartagena

Photo by Tony Cartagena

Ling’s Buffet T written By: John Ross

his month, FOCUS Magazine was invited to try out the state-renowned all-you-can-eat sushi bar at Ling’s Buffet on Highway 37 in Lakeland. We walked inside the spacious building and Phil, manager, greeted us on a bridge over which we stood a pond full of colorful Koi. We sat down and discussed what set Ling’s Buffet apart from other Asian-style buffets.

“Our guests say our sushi bar is the best in town- some say in the state of Florida,” said Phil, referring to the large amount of complex sushi rolls the restaurant creates and serves throughout the day. Other strong points: the variety of food the restaurant provides its patrons, including a salad, fruit, and desert bar, and several other bars made with chicken, fish, beef, and vegetables prepared in many traditional ways. Phil said that nothing is ever frozen and they give special concern to keeping food at the intended serving temperature while on the bars: cold foods remain cold,

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warm foods remain warm, hot remain hot.

Sushi isn’t what everyone eats, though, and Ling’s Buffet takes care of its non-sushi eating patrons with just as much gusto.

For dinner, guests return for the prime rib, baked ham, frog legs, spare ribs, fresh raw oysters, and the Hibachi grill.

We tried the food, hitting the sushi bar first. It did not disappoint; complex rolls ornately adorned the wooden boards they were offered on. Not a simple California Roll was in sight. Rolls like the Volcano roll with fried eggs, crab meat, and spicy mayo; the Spring roll; and the Flower Roll, among several other similarly complex rolls, boasted high taste and variety. The meats (tender shrimp, chicken, baked salmon, and more) were cooked and seasoned with finesse and precision resembling gourmet Chinese food, a far cry past what you might expect from what is served from most to-go Chinese restaurants where everything is

Photo by Tony Cartagena

Ling’s Buffet (863) 701-8787 4320 South Florida Avenue Lakeland, Florida 33813 Lunch hours and prices: Monday – Saturday: 11:00 am - 3:30 pm Adults: $7.75 Dinner hours and prices: Monday – Thursday: 4:00 pm - 9:30 pm, $13.45 Friday and Saturday: 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm, $14.45 Sunday: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm, $13.45

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

WeDneSDAy, mArch 16 » Live United With Emerge The United Way 11:00am 5135 Hwy 98 South

thurSDAy, mArch 17 » Business After Hours 5:30pm 2440 US Highway 98 N

monDAy, mArch 21 » Garden Lecture Series: Proper Pruning and Best Maintenance Practices 6:30pm 1700 N Florida Ave

tueSDAy, mArch 22 » Ribbon Cutting - pace Center for Girls, Inc. 4:00pm 101 W Main Street

WeDneSDAy, mArch 23 » ABWA APRES - Work & Day Savings Time Networking Event 5:30pm McDonald Street

thurSDAy, mArch 24

» Take Me Out To The Tigers Game!

6:00pm 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd.

friDAy, mArch 25 » 2011 Wine Festival of Central

Florida 6:30pm 121 S. Lake Drive Enjoy a fabulous evening under the stars on the beautiful Lake Mirror Promenade. With over 100 wines, spirits and microbrews and samplings from local chefs and restaurants, this is a premier event. All net proceeds from this event will benefit Alliance for Independence. Tickets purchased prior to the event are $50 and will be available online February 1 at www.afi-

fl.org by clicking on the Donate Now tab. You also may purchase tickets at the AFI Administrative Offices. Tickets purchased at the event will be $55.

friDAy, mArch 25 » Roll Out The Red Carpet for

Harrison 6:00pm 750 Hollingsworth Rd This is the annual fundraiser for Harrison School for the Arts. The event is only $25 and will include dinner

by GrillSmith, silent auction and performances by every department at Harrison.

SAturDAy, mArch 26

are $50 each and can be purchased at Explorations V Children’s Museum now!

Sunshine 6:30pm 100 Lake Morton Dr

» Community Celebration - Lunch on the Gridrion 11:15 am 701 W Lime St

Awards 6:30pm 800 Lone Palm Dr

thurSDAy, mArch 31

thurSDAy, APril 07 » 6th Annual Woman of Distinction

thurSDAy, mArch 31 » Emerge Membership Drive Casino SAturDAy, APril 09 Party Kickoff 5:30pm 802 E. Orange St The Grand Prize for the membership drive is an IPAD. Other prizes such as a plane ride and dinner with Cindy Green, Tampa Bay Bucs Club tickets, spa gift certificates, golf packages and much more!!

monDAy, APril 04

» Run for the Cure 10k 7:30am Fort Fraser Trail - Highland City Registration is now open for this event! http://www.active.com/running/ highland-city-fl/run-for-the-cure10k-2011 Additional information can be found on www.YourEventConsultant. com

» Citrus Success! Growing Liquid

» Family Fit Fest 9:00am 451 3rd Street NW A Family 1k walk, 2k Fun Run and Tot Trot will kick off the festivities at 9:30am. Children will have the opportunity to participate in a ‘Kidz Cookoff ’ throughout the day, while learning about heathy snack preparation.

A bounce house along with other games and activities will also be provided.

Dental, vision, diabetes and overall health screenings, immunizations, hearing exams and sports physicals are among the popular activities that will be offered.

SAturDAy, mArch 26 » American Red Cross Red, White and Blue Soul Bash 6;30pm 121 S. Lake Ave

SAturDAy, mArch 26 » Night at the Museum Gala

Benefitting Explorations V Children’s Museum 7:00pm 109 N Kentucky Ave Celebrate 20 years of hands-on adventures at Explorations V with food, fun, dining and dancing. Tickets

147 Avenue a SE Winter Haven, FL 33880 (863) 293-0000 FOCUS Magazine lakeland march 2011

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www.FredsSouthernKitchen.com 28

Eat Better. Love Life. Live Longer.

march 2011 thefocusmagazine.com