FOCUS Polk County 09-02

HEALTHY LIVING LEC TURE SERIES

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Tuesday, April 23rd, 2013 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

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Speaker: Dr. Ned Panara Board Certified in Gastroenterology

Please join Gastroenterologist Ned Panara, M.D. for a free presentation as he discusses GERD, a chronic digestive disease that occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, or food pipe, causing serious irritation and heartburn.

AN AFFILIATE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA COLLEGE OF MEDICINE AND SHANDS HEALTHCARE

GERD can lead to a pre-cancerous condition called Barrett’s esophagus. Learn about the causes and symptoms of GERD and the specialty treatment options offered by Dr. Panara.

Lunch and helpful tips from a Winter Haven Hospital nutritionist to be included.

Registration required; call (863) 291-6705 to register.

For more information, and to register, please call (863) 291-6705.

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Brandin Pettersen brandin.pettersen@remax.net FOCUS Magazine polk county april 2013

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CONTENTS

06-10 Local

Spring has arrived, which means in Polk County there’s much to celebrate. Don’t miss out on the countless number of events taking place this month, including the March for Babies on April 27. We also rejoice with Southeastern University and their latest accomplishment, the production of their first full-length worship CD of original music, which ranked among the top Christian albums on iTunes immediately after its release. Also, check out our review of the Our Children’s St. Patrick’s Day Gala.

Focus Magazine appreciates all of these organizations—and many, many more—for their unwavering commitment toward making Polk County a better place!

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Feature: Traffick Jam Walk-a-thon

After learning about the Hard Places Community organization at her local place of worship, Fuel Community Church in North Lakeland, Plant City resident and mom of two, Debbie Miller, felt the call to help end child sex trafficking in Cambodia by organizing the 2013 Traffick Jam Walk-a-thon fundraiser.

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Spotlight: John “Lites” Leenhouts

Certified flight instructor and former Navy pilot John “Lites” Leenhouts recently moved to Lakeland and immediately got involved with the community. Today, he serves as President and CEO of SUN ‘n FUN and is excited about this year’s event, as well as what’s in store for its future. Learn more about the annual fly-in and expo and Lites’ passion for aviation.

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Business: The Brass Tap

Finally...The Brass Tap has come to Polk County, now open in Lakeland’s Lakeside Village. Sample one or more of over 300 varieties of beer, including several offerings from local Florida breweries, while you catch the game and enjoy a delivered dish from numerous Village restaurants for no extra charge!

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Dining: Texas Cattle Company

Many say that everything is bigger and better in Texas, and that’s also the case at Lakeland’s Texas Cattle Company restaurant. Whether you’re in the mood for the popular 18 oz. T-Bone or the massive 32 oz. Porterhouse, this high-quality eatery has something to satisfy any meat or seafood lover’s appetite.

See Also: Let’s Focus on Fishing - 19 Event Calendar - 22

onthecover Photography by Nate Mundell Photography

John “Lites” Lennhouts President and CEO of SUN ‘n FUN

April 2013 | Volume 9 Issue 2 | focuspolkcounty.com

Letter From The Publisher

What a month it’s been for Polk County!

Our Central Florida families have enjoyed the world-famous Strawberry Festival, lots of big name entertainment and a St. Patrick’s Day Children’s Gala, among other springtime activities.

And now, as the harvest continues, we look forward to the March for Babies on April 27 and SUN ‘n’ FUN from April 9-14.

You won’t want to miss our Spotlight interview this month with certified flight instructor and former Navy pilot John “Lites” Leenhouts, who serves as the organization’s CEO. Speaking of big time entertainment, are you aware that Southeastern University’s first fulllength CD of original worship music ranked among the top gospel albums on iTunes soon after its release? Is that great or what?

And for a story that will touch your heart, please discover the details in our feature on the Traffick Jam Walk-a-thon fundraiser of how this even came to be. When a local mother decides to take action to help children, be prepared to move. You’ll need your walking shoes for this one.

It’s our hope also that your family enjoyed one of the Easter worship services and some together time in celebration of the Resurrection.

For it’s in the spring we’re reminded once again of the sacrifice that deserves our gratitude, and that we all have much for which to be thankful.

And certainly, one of those on our list is your loyalty. We wouldn’t exist without it.

You see them in Movies, T.V. Commercials and in Magazines!

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Contact us for more information.

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

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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.

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ERIC NUTTING Lakeland Chamber of Commerce Featured Performance at The Lakeland Center.

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9:27:36 PM FOCUS Magazine polk county 2/26/2013 april 2013

local

Supporting the Fight against Birth Defects Buckley Family Shares their Story

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e’ve all experienced the joy of welcoming a new child into the world, whether your own son or daughter, brother or sister, niece or nephew, grandchild or cousin. It’s a wonderful part of life. The majority of the time, all goes well and the new baby comes home within a few days to spend their life with the family. In fact, childbirth is so common that it’s often taken for granted. We just expect everything to go well. Unfortunately, it doesn’t always go as planned. From time to time, pregnancies come with complications; sometimes predicted and other times completely unexpected. For those unexpected situations, we’re fortunate to have a great organization funding research that helps newborn babies and their families make it through—March of Dimes.

March of Dimes has the very distinct recognition of being the only non-profit organization to fully achieve its initial goal.

March of Dimes was founded by former President Franklin D. Roosevelt to combat Polio. Through the organization’s efforts, it was able to fund the research that led to the development of the Salk vaccine, which eliminated the disease. After accomplishing their original mission, March of Dimes shifted their focus to birth defects, and the organization has contributed over and over again to the betterment of children born around the world.

Article by Brian West

This year’s Ambassador Family for the March of Dimes is the Buckley’s. John and Michele Buckley, from Lakeland, were expecting their third child last year, but had no idea how stressful their lives were about to become. Michele experienced a partial tear in the placenta early on in her pregnancy, and although that issue was resolved, she delivered a 2lb. 4oz. girl, Amelia Victoria, on February 15, 2011; just 26 weeks into Michele’s pregnancy. March of Dimes research indicates that children are most healthy when delivered at 39 weeks— making little Amelia 13 weeks early and the size of just three 12oz. cans of coke.

Early deliveries like this are dangerous for the child as many organs and other body parts and functions haven’t even started to develop at this stage. This can become very emotional for the parents and everyone else involved, including Michele Buckley: “I really kind of put myself in a cave and didn’t want to talk to anyone about her situation.

I created a daily blog for the first month as therapy and finally released it in about April.

That was when we realized she was going to be ok.”

Today, Amelia—her family refers to her as “Our Littlest Buckley”— is doing just fine, always into everything and full of energy. As amazing as her story is, there are so many other children born premature that don’t survive.

Amelia Buckley was born 13 weeks early, but is now happy and healthy thanks to support from the March of Dimes organization. Photo submitted by Michele Buckley

In fact, in an average week in Florida, about 633 babies are born premature, calculating to every one in seven births. March of Dimes research is so incredibly important for the life and well being of children.

One of March of Dimes largest fundraisers is March for Babies. Since the program began in 1970, March of Dimes has raised over $2 billion nationwide to benefit all babies. This year, more than 7 million people from over 900 communities will help combat

Today, Amelia Buckley is a happy and healthy two-year-old.

Photo submitted by Michele Buckley

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birth defects, premature births and infant mortality.

The annual Polk County March of Dimes March for Babies will be held in Lakeland on April 27. The walk will begin at 8 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, located at I75 Lake Hollingsworth Drive. Registration will begin at 7 a.m. For more information, call 863-687-8909 or visit the website at www.marchofdimes.com/florida/events.

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FOCUS Magazine polk county april 2013

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Sewing Machines Modern Fabrics Notions Books Patterns Classes

local

Shamrocks and Red

Balloons Galore

Our Children’s Academy and Rehab Fundraiser Article by Valerie McCutcheon

www.inspirequiltingandsewing.com 101 N. Collins Street, Plant City, FL 33563 813.704.4867

Events Coordinator Lora Donley with Co-founder Sharon McManus.

Photo by Valerie McCutcheon

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t. Patrick’s Day might be a green holiday, but at the Lake Eva Banquet Hall in Haines City on March 16 it was all about the red balloons. Over 300 attendees flocked to the 11th Annual Our Children’s Red Balloon St. Patrick’s Day Gala benefitting the Our Children’s Academy and Rehab, a nonprofit organization and public charter school focusing on early intervention to help children with a wide variety of special needs.

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In the words of co-founder Sharon McManus, “We’re uniquely different from any other program in the area because we serve all types of disabilities. We have a full team to serve with medical, educational and vocational needs. We have physical therapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, teachers, behavioral analysts and the children themselves all working together and helping each other.” McManus created the Red Balloon name after the 1956 French film Le Balloon Rouge, about a young boy april 2013 focuspolkcounty.com

befriended by a red balloon that provides enjoyment, friendship, play and education.

The elementary school in Lake Wales has about 280 kids, with even more on the wait list, and Middle Academy that opened in 2012 currently has about 40. A small high school, the Our Career Centered Academy, is slated to open next year as a McKay Scholarship-funded school intended to teach students job skills. “Our goal is to have our children employed, have them be able to get jobs and work,” explained McManus.

The money raised at the Gala will go toward funding the new school they’re planning to build. They’ve purchased the land next to the current school that backs up to Lake Wales High School and are $3.5 million into a $12.5 million Capital Campaign.

“It’s about cultivation,” commented Events Coordinator Lora Donley. “We want to bring awareness to the fact that even though

THE LAKELAND CENTER

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Guests wondering what great auction items they will take home at the gala’s end.

Photo by Valerie McCutcheon

we’re located in Lake Wales, we provide services to kids from all over, and we want to let them know our plans for helping them in the future.”

Although final numbers hadn’t yet been tabulated, usually about $100,000 to $125,000 is raised at this one event. “We have five years to raise the money for the new school, but we’ll raise it long before then,” bets Donley. “We have a good support system. We know it’s a bad economy but we still have great expectations. People always come together to help these children.”

That was evident in the sheer amount of items donated for both the silent and live auctions. Prizes like a trip to Alaska, a John Deere Gator, a five-night cruise, an iPad, and much, much more, as well as original works of art created by Academy students, had

everyone signing their names and raising their Shamrock paddles. Other prizes could be found in green and red balloons available for purchase in singles or bunches, with a simultaneous balloon pop held at the end of the night. Dinner and performances by the Academy’s Guitar Ensemble, Dance Troop, Drama Program and other musical entertainment rounded out the night’s festivities.

MAY 7, 7:30 PM MAY 10, 8 PM

Their next fundraiser, the 10th Annual Hanger Golf Challenge, will be held Thursday, April 18 at the Kissimmee Bay Country Club. Over 10 years, Hanger Prosthetics and Orthotics has raised over $100,000 on behalf of the Our Children’s Charitable Fund for the purchase of new Occupational and Physical Therapy equipment, including the creation of a separate OT/PT gym. For more information, visit ourchildrens.org.

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SHARE John Updike and guests with their red balloons. Photo by Valerie McCutcheon

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FOCUS Magazine polk county april 2013

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local

No Other Name

Southeastern University Worship Album Climbs iTunes Charts Immediately Upon Release Article by Katie Reilly

T

here have been a number of changes on Southeastern University’s campus in the past year, and one of the big ones included hiring a new campus pastor and new worship director. With them, they brought the dream of producing a completely student written and performed worship CD. This past February, that dream came to fruition as Southeastern released their new worship album, “No Other Name.”

The album features 12 original songs written

by Southeastern students throughout the year. And with the sweet taste of success still in their mouths, they plan to make more in the future.

Andrew Gard, the campus pastor, and Chase Wagner, the worship director, began the project by inviting Southeastern students to submit original songs that they had written.

Gard and Wagner had worked on similar projects while they were at Foursquare Church in Puyallup, Washington. However, they wanted to take their vision to the next level with the university.

as well as together as a group. And they considered their efforts paid off when they did the live recording.

“It was a joyful experience, and hearing the crowd singing all of these original songs was awesome!” said Boykin.

only did the album help bring the campus together, but it also gave the participants a significant boost of experience and recognition for their careers.

Both Gard and Wagner are planning on continuing the tradition of recording a

Southeastern album each year and releasing it at the annual Conference. And if the first album is any indication, the goal will most likely be met with a lot of enthusiasm from students as well as staff.

Through some connections, Gard and Wagner recruited Andrew Crawford and James Hurley—Hillsong recording veterans—to assist with the post-production aspects, ensuring that the album would be edited and produced professionally.

When they finally released the album at Southeastern’s 2013 Conference in February, the students and the Southeastern community was rewarded even more. The same day it was released, the album reached No. 2 on the iTunes Christian chart and No. 39 on the overall top album chart. Thus, not

Several Southeastern University students worked together to complete the school’s first worship album featuring 12 original songs. Photo by Ashley Mae Wright Photography

“It’s something that we kind of knew how to do, and we just thought it would be perfect for this context and this community,” said Wagner.

And the students responded in a big way.

Despite only 12 songs being chosen for the live recording of the album, approximately 20 original songs were performed at the daily chapel services on campus. Not only that, but when they had the live recording the Monday following the 2012 Thanksgiving break, the chapel packed out, showing just how much enthusiasm the campus had for the venture.

“The place was packed, and it was so cool to see the campus unified over that kind of thing,” Wagner said. “Usually when it comes to music and bands, it’s not that way.”

Jennifer Boykin, one of the students who participated with the songwriting and performance, said that it really brought the students together, especially those who had an integral role with the making of the album. Through the songwriting retreat they went on and the rehearsals they did, they grew in both experience and knowledge

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Southeastern University students played several of their original songs at the school’s annual Conference in February at Polk Theater.. Photo by Ashley Mae Wright Photography

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Maeng’s Story

Each Sunday morning, Debbie Miller leaves North Lakeland’s Fuel Community Church uplifted and inspired, ready to tackle the week ahead. However, one particular Sunday morning message reduced Miller to tears—she couldn’t believe what she had just heard.

The church had invited Alli Mellon, executive director of the Hard Places Community, to speak about her experiences in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia and the heart of the country’s child sex trafficking industry, where boys and girls as young as three years old are forced into having sex with grown men night after night— including Maeng.

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In 2008, Mellon created the Hard Places Community to bring relief, restoration, and reconciliation to the world’s most broken and desperate people. Years of research directed her to Phnom Penh, where 3-year-olds were sold to men for oral sex and 4-year-olds were molested on a daily basis. As a result, Mellon established a Kids Club, a safe place where boys and girls could escape the darkness they confront each night. At the Kids Club, children sing songs, dance, complete art projects, eat snacks, and learn English thanks to several volunteers.

Maeng, a spunky 5-year-old, loved Kids Club, especially the volunteers who treated her with love and kindness. According to Hard Places, “She quickly became the new appendage for the staff ! Maeng loved to walk holding tight to our hands, or wrap herself around our legs so we could barely walk.” On the outside, Maeng appeared to be the happiest child on Earth.

Yet one day, Kids Club volunteers observed Maeng acting differently, walking around with her legs spread wide. She couldn’t even sit down and had to complete art projects while standing. Maeng was in obvious pain. Something was wrong.

Mellon learned that the Maeng was a slave, sold by her own grandmother each night for sex with grown men in exchange for a few dollars. The Hard Places Community immediately took a stand, and today, Maeng is no longer in bondage and continues to enjoy Kids Club activities.

A Call to Action

Miller left Fuel Community Church that Sunday morning, unable to focus on anything other than Mellon’s heartbreaking stories, and days later she found herself still struggling to set aside her emotions and move on with life. She knew God was calling her to action.

“When Alli left, I was crying, and ended up crying for a couple of days,” said Miller. “I didn’t even know anything about human trafficking beforehand, so I immediately wanted to know what I could do to help. I couldn’t just sit and listen to all those stories and not do anything, so I went online to the Hard Places Community website, clicked on the “Get Involved” tab, and learned about the Traffick Jam Walk-athons.”

Traffick Jam events are held in various locations around the nation each year to raise funds for Hard Place Community projects, including their prevention and restoration centers for children in Phnom Penh. At these safe havens, Punlok Thmey (“New Growth”) for boys and Prook Thmey (“New Morning”) for girls, Hard Place Community volunteers provide counseling to children who have been continual victims of prostitution.

“I put my trust in God, prayed and prayed about what I was supposed to do, and finally got in touch with Drew Mellon, Alli’s brother, who is in charge of the Traffick Jam events around the United States,” said Miller. “He told me a Traffick Jam had never been done in Florida. It was then I knew this was something I had to do. “ Miller immediately spoke to Fuel Community Church Lead Pastor Mike Harrell about her desire to organize a Traffick Jam. Pastor Harrell was extremely supportive of the idea.

“When we read in the Book of Acts, the church was active,” said Pastor Harrell. “They didn’t just meet on Sunday, and then go their separate ways. Even Jesus was always going from town to town, to where the people were to meet their needs.

In today’s church culture, we have created this environment where we expect everyone to come to us for help. At Fuel, our focus is outward. We try to meet the needs wherever they are.”

Traffick Jam Walk-a-Thon

Florida’s first Traffick Jam 10-mile Walk-a-thon fundraiser, coordinated by Miller with help from the Fuel Community Church congregation, will be held on Saturday, April 20 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Lake Hollingsworth. Participants are encouraged to raise $10 from 10 different people, one dollar per each mile walked. Miller’s goal is have 500 to 1,000 walkers attend the Traffick Jam, and with about 350 people already committed to the event from Fuel Community Church, Miller believes her goal will be met. The entire church has been hard at work promoting the fundraiser to local media outlets, churches, and universities.

“I’m so excited to open the door to a world that has long been locked so that others can see this act and stop it,” said Fuel Community Church attendee Ronda Kyler. “The reason these kinds of things happen and are so rampant all over the world is because people are scared to speak up—scared to take a stand and trust someone who might actually care about their wellbeing. I have my sledge hammer in hand, and I am ready to break this open with as much power and noise as I can make.”

The First Presbyterian Church, located along Lake Hollingsworth, has also been a huge supporter of the Traffick Jam, allowing Fuel Community Church to rent out their facilities for the walk-a-thon. Here, bounce houses will be on hand for children, free popcorn and cotton candy will be offered, and hot dogs, hamburgers, and T-shirts will be sold.

In addition, participants have the opportunity to win donated items from various businesses and restaurants in the area during a raffle starting at 2 p.m., followed by a Fuel worship band concert. Miller and others hope this event will become an annual Lakeland tradition.

Each day children who are victims of the prevalent sex trade industry of Phnom Penh, Cambodia visit the Kids Club provided by the Hard Places Community. Here they are loved by several dedicated staff members who lead them in singing, dancing, art projects, and more!

“I want to continue to do this every year, not just this one time,” said Miller. “I know sex trafficking is an issue here in the United States, but these are children as young as 3 to 5 years old who are taken from their home every night. This is what God has called me to do. It breaks my heart and I just can’t sit back and let this happen. That’s not how any child should have to live.”

Apart from the prevention and restoration centers, the Hard Places Community also started the Punlok Thmey Tours program, allowing young males, once victims of the sex trade industry, a way to make a living. The boys are taught English and give tours of the area or lead treks through the countryside and jungle for foreign visitors.

Many have enrolled in the program and are currently giving practice tours to willing tourists!

“As Christians, the fact that this is happening on our watch, we can’t stand back and do nothing,” said Pastor Harrell. “The church is the voice of the world, and we have to stand up and do something about it…The need is so large. We are hoping to do this each year.”

Register for the Traffick Jam by visiting fuelcommunitychurch. com. Registration is $10 and T-shirts can be pre-ordered for $15. Join the fight against the child sex trafficking industry and help the Hard Places Community shed light to children in a dark, broken community.

An estimated 1.8 million children are exploited in the global commercial sex trade, though this figure is thought to be much higher due to the underground dealings for traffickers. There are no exact estimates on the number of children who are trafficked because the practice is hidden and difficult to assess.

FOCUS Magazine polk county april 2013

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Interview by Valerie McCutcheon Photos by Nate Mundell Photography & Submitted by SUN ‘n FUN ohn Leenhouts, better known by his naval call sign “Lites,” is the President and CEO of SUN ‘n FUN, a Lakeland non profit organization whose mission is to preserve and enhance the future of flight through world-class events, inspiring and educating people of all ages. Their largest event, the 39th Annual SUN ‘n FUN International Fly-In and Expo, will be held April 9 through 14, and Focus Magazine sat down with Lites to discuss the event, as well as the mission of the organization and what’s in store for the future.

Focus Magazine: Tell us about your background. Where are you from? How did you get into aviation?

Lites: I came from a family of “gypsies of the South.” My father was a roughneck and we moved when the rent came due, so I’ve traveled all over Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Utah and went to high school, and my first year of college in Illinois. I lived in 14 different places in 20 years.

I’ve been an avid aviation enthusiast since I was a young man. I did my initial flight training in college at Oklahoma State University, using student loans to take flight lessons and got college credit for it. I majored in mechanical engineering with an aerospace minor, and became a certified flight instructor there. I realized that I really wanted to be a military pilot, and a Navy pilot convinced me that flying Navy aircrafts was much more exciting than anything else.

FM: Was that true?

Lites: No doubt about it. Flying off an aircraft carrier in the middle of the ocean in the middle of the night is pretty thrilling. And petrifying! I was lucky enough to be able to do that for 28 years, and was stationed in Jacksonville until I retired in 2000.

FM: When did you come to Lakeland?

Lites: August 2011. After retiring from the Navy I worked at Northrop Grumman for 11 years when a friend told me about this opportunity. I’d been here before as a guest and as a performer in military aircraft, and thought, “What better way to spend my golden years?”

FM: Tell us about your work at SUN ‘n FUN. Lites: Most people don’t know that SUN ‘n FUN is a 501(c)3 non profit organization. We’re not a corporation out to make money. Our sole purpose is to provide educational opportunities for young men and women in FOCUS Magazine polk county april 2013

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Nightly airshows are a breathtaking sight at SUN ‘n FUN.

Polk County and Central Florida, to build a brighter future through aviation. We pour the majority of the money we raise back into the school systems to motivate kids to learn science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) using aviation as an attraction.

There will be food vendors, a kids zone, bounce houses, plenty of entertainment and of course, lots of airplanes to look at. We’ll have about 3,000 different airplanes on display, from models of the 20s all the way to the newest fighters of tomorrow.

We are in the process of transitioning the Florida Air Museum here into a Science and Innovation Center with hands-on interactive exhibits to teach kids about what we do. Our goal is to create an entity within Polk County that’s recognized as a center of excellence for STEM learning with aviation as a theme, and it should be functional about this time next year.

FM: What does this event bring to Polk County?

Lites: This is the second largest aviation fly-in in the world, and the largest non-membership based aviation event. We have been assessed by USF to have a $64 million direct dollar impact to the I-4 corridor, and another approximately $20 million in indirect dollars.

We also have a high school here. The Central Florida Aerospace Academy is a Polk County charter school focusing on teaching STEM in preparation for careers in aviation. Additionally, if students have a 2.75 GPA and no disciplinary issues, we pay 75% of the price for them to get their private pilot’s license. They can either pay the remaining 25% or they can volunteer for us to work off their tuition. Enrollment is currently 235, with capacity for 400.

Eleven pilots have licenses now because of our program, with probably another 20 or so in different phases as we speak. There’s a shortage of pilots in the world and we’re helping to fill that void.

FM: What can visitors expect at the Fly-In? Lites: It’s six days long and is actually two separate events – the Fly-In and the Expo. The Expo is a huge convention of aviation enthusiasts coming to see all the newest technology.

There will be about 500 exhibitor vendors showcased here.

There are an unlimited number of forums where experienced aviators can speak on a myriad of subjects of interest to pilots. There will be workshops for pilots as well as teacher workshops, where we teach teachers how to use aviation as a tool to teach STEM. There are evening programs with entertainment and of course an air show every day for three hours, but the big shows are Friday through Sunday. Almost every special act around the nation comes to perform here, and they perform for free because we are a non profit, and this is a fundraising event.

Planes aren’t the only aircraft for viewing at the annual SUN ‘n FUN Fly-in and Expo. Hot Air Balloons are also on display.

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FM: Are you involved in any other professional or civic organizations?

Lites: I am now. I married my college sweetheart as I went into the Navy, and just as I was about to retire, at the ripe old age of 50, she had a brain aneurysm in the middle of the night and never woke up. The shock obviously changed my perspective on life. I realized that life was pretty fragile and precious. We had always talked about what we wanted to do after retirement, and had all these plans that never came to fruition. I got re-involved with volunteerism, the Heart Association, and the American Cancer Society. When this opportunity at SUN ‘n FUN presented itself, I thought this was my chance to give back to aviation. I’m here to change the face of SUN ‘n FUN, to be a solution for the future, not just creating memories of the past.

FM: Do you have any hobbies?

Lites: My (current) wife and I love Harleys, and ride them regularly around the countryside. It’s a great release. We go to other air shows as guests, and I have a few biplanes of my own that I fly to different events. We love vintage cars, and we are both avid shooters. One obligation that I’ve created for myself is to go around doing “missionary work.” It’s not what you’d think in the typical sense, but I tell the story of SUN ‘n FUN. I want to spread the word that you’re not paying for us to just have a big party, you’re investing in the future of aviation. I say I’m the preacher in the church of the high speed past on a missionary job, to get kids excited about learning the sciences through aviation.

FM: Thank you for your time!

President and CEO of SUN ‘n FUN, John “Lites” Lennhouts.

At SUN ‘n FUN check out past, present, and future aircraft models.

FOCUS Magazine polk county april 2013

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business » profile

The Brass Tap Craft Beer Comes to Lakeside Village Profile by Valerie McCutcheon

C

raft beer lovers in Polk County who are asking, “What’s on tap?” suddenly have a lot more offerings to choose from…over 300 more, in fact. The Brass Tap, an upscale chain of bars serving an extensive variety of craft beer, wine and even cigars is now open in the Lakeside Village in Lakeland. Founders Jeff Martin and Steve Slowey, who also operate locations in Brandon, Wesley Chapel and New Port Richey, have been eyeing the prime location for the past three years.

“There’s a definite need for craft beer in Lakeland,” Martin explains. Originally from Boston, Martin has resided in Wesley Chapel for the past 12 years, and will be splitting time between the other locations. Manager Tim Jones will handle day-to-day operations in Lakeland. Martin, who has been in the beer business since 2006, opened the first Brass

Tap in 2008. They have partnered with Beef O’Brady’s to handle the franchise expansion beyond Florida, and locations are set to open in Texas, Cincinnati and Chicago.

The Brass Tap boasts 70 craft beers on draft and an additional 265 in the bottle. All different styles, there will be about 10 to 15 offerings from local Florida breweries on tap at all times. Their staff of 20 attends a weeklong “beer school” to bone up on brew knowledge. “We take pride in our servers’ knowledge,” says Martin.

The upscale, modern vibe is accentuated by wood and black leather high tops and polished bars, and the 19 flat screens lining the walls make it the perfect place to relax with a pint and watch a game…the location has NFL and MLB Ticket and College

The Brass Tap staff are happy to serve you Florida’s finest craft beers.

(Shown here, Owner Jeff Martin and staff). Photo by Joey Roberts

Game Day. Local bands take the stage Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Those afraid of heights beware, as this stage is actually located on top of the bar, even above the flat screens!

Also unique to this location is a menu. While the other locations only serve spirits, the Lakeland location will offer pub fare such as pizza, pretzels, and appetizers. Patrons also have the option of ordering in from any of the numerous restaurants in the Village, such as Grillsmith, Burger 21 and Abuelo’s, who will deliver to hungry drinkers at no charge.

The Brass Tap open house was a huge success as patrons were able to sample many different beers and hors d’oeuvres. Photo by Joey Roberts

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The bar has two separate outdoor patios, with one specifically earmarked for special events like beer dinners, tastings, and more. If you’re bringing a large party for a special occasion, it can be reserved at no charge. A selection of specialty cigars will be available for sale, and can only be smoked on the patio. A selection of entertainment and education events are planned, such as meetings of the Brewer’s Guild of Lakeland and home brewing classes. “We want to teach people about craft beer, and get them away from drinking the normal Bud Light,” says Martin. “Good beer is good for you!” chimes in Jones.

There’s also a loyalty club called the Brew Crew: pay $15 to join, and get a t-shirt and membership card that tracks every beer imbibed, giving you a point for each one and rewards as you reach certain benchmarks.

Drink all 300 and get $200 back on your card to start all over again!

The bar is open from noon to 2 a.m. every day except Sunday, when the hours are noon to midnight. Be sure to join the over 4,000 fans on Facebook, as specials and events are posted constantly.

Martin’s hopes for the future include even more locations, with the Brass Tap name spread throughout the United States. We’re certainly glad his vision of craft beer, and lots of it, includes Polk County!

information 1515 Town Center Drive Lakeland, FL 33803 brasstapbeerbar.com facebook.com/ TheBrassTapLakesideVillage (863) 680-9994

extra » fishing Luckily, when contacted by Joey Roberts of FOCUS Magazine, I had no idea I’d would be fishing with a seasoned angler, and that’s always a joy for me because it cuts down one of those three factors mentioned above. Our trip had been in the making for weeks, and it was just a matter of getting out together between cold fronts and rainstorms.

Finally, the day arose, the forecast called for thunderstorms, and we knew we had a small window to make it happen. I called Joey and said, “If we want this to happen today, we both need to put down whatever we’re doing and head there now,” and we did. With two of those three factors at bay, we headed to one of Lakeland’s landmark bodies of water and proceeded to target big Largemouth Bass.

Captain Blake Smith with a monster 5.2 pound bass. Photo by Joey Roberts

Let’s FOCUS on Fishing Submitted by Captain Blake Smith, Awesome Fishing Adventures f there’s one thing I’ve learned about being Most of the time, people book fishing a captain, it’s to expect the unexpected— professionals for one of two reasons: One, especially in the fishing realm. I never they want to have the ability to catch the know what the weather in Florida is going quality fish they’ve dreamed about their to be, what the capabilities of the person I’m whole life, or two, they are just getting fishing with are, or even how the specific started in the world of fishing and want to species of fish are going to mesh with those cut down the learning curve in the process of first two factors. One thing is for sure… becoming a great fisherman. For me, I never that I have to be willing to make changes to really know the purpose of the trip until I get provide the quality fishing experience people out on the boat with my clients. expect when they book with me.

Pulling into the lake, the evidence of our Polk County resident fish were everywhere.

We could not have asked for a more obvious abundance of fish. Our only problem at this point was the strength we needed to pull them out of their wiry homes—cattails and bonnets. Without worry, not only were we

able to find amazing Bass action with baits provided by Bridgemasters in Lake Wales, but a first for me; Joey had just the persuasive technique it took to lure a big, beautiful Catfish onto his soft plastic artificial bait.

Overall, there’s never a day that people don’t enjoy what our beautiful Polk County lakes have to offer.

Throughout Lakeland and its surrounding communities, there’s been a swarm of success in Bass action for people fishing with me and the other guides and captains of Awesome Fishing Adventures. Whether people are experienced anglers wanting to land the biggest Bass of their lives or someone wanting to soak some shiners to land those local Bucket mouths, there’s never been a better time. My preference is to use June bug-colored soft plastic baits when flipping and Rapala hard plastic crank baits when the fish are transitioning in deeper water this time of year. You can find everything you’re looking for at “My Fisherman Candy Store,” Bridgemasters, in Lake Wales to help you catch the same fish I do.

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Joey Roberts of FOCUS with a 3.5 pound largemouth bass. Photo by Joey Roberts

FOCUS Magazine polk county april 2013

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D & E » dining profile

Texas Cattle Company

Lakeland Landmark Celebrates 40 years Profile by Valerie McCutcheon

Cheese Garlic Potato Chips. House tossed and served with a creamy dip, this cheesy treat is addictive. Other appetizer selections include escargot, gator, calamari, a spicy Asian inspired “Dang Bang Shrimp,” and “Pachos,” a cast-iron skillet of potato wedges topped with nacho cheese, diced tomatoes and sour cream.

Their wine list is extensive, with prices ranging from $7 to $16 per glass, or $20 all the way up to $185 for bottles (that’s a Dom Perignon). Servers are well-trained and knowledgeable, and certain bottles are marked half-price on Wine Down Wednesdays.

Filet mignon with U-10 Stuffed Shrimp, house salad and baked potato makes for a filling meal! Photo by Valerie McCutcheon

I

f you’ve spent any amount of time in Lakeland, you’re probably familiar with the tan and white building that sits off Main Street overlooking idyllic Lake Mirror.

If you haven’t been there and you love a good steak, we suggest you familiarize yourself with Texas Cattle Company...and fast!

are cooked over a natural citrus and oak wood fire; Oak provides the heat, and the citrus seals in the flavor. And as they say in Texas, everything really is bigger. Their most popular offering is the 18 oz. T-Bone, which diners can get for free with a Florida ID on their birthday.

A downtown Lakeland staple, the restaurant originally opened in 1973 as Talk of the Town before becoming Texas Cattle Company in 1984. The corporate office took over the Talk of the Town name, and that restaurant group now owns 10 Central Florida area restaurants, including another Texas Cattle in St. Petersburg, and Charley’s Steakhouse, FishBones, MoonFish, Vito’s Chop House and Johnnie’s Hideaway.

We sampled a sizeable 14 oz. filet mignon ($28.95) that was mouthwateringly juicy and tender. Cooked to order, your server stands by as you cut into it to ensure you’re happy with the finished product. Ours was topped with just a pat of melted butter, but sautéed onions, mushrooms or bleu cheese can be added at an additional charge. Entrees also have the option of “Surfing.” That is, adding an Australian lobster tail, bacon-wrapped scallops or U-10 Stuffed Shrimp (with lump crab meat and lemon beurre blanc sauce).

Looks can be deceiving; the interior is much more spacious than the exterior lets on, with room for just over 200. There is nothing deceiving about the size of the slabs of meat on display upon entering, however. Their one-page menu shows that they know how to focus on what they do well. We sat down with General Manager Deidre White, who shared a few (but not all!) of the secrets of their divine-tasting steaks. They only use U.S. Choice and Prime 3-year-old grain-fed beef, aged four to six weeks for maximum tenderness then hand cut in-house daily.

Seasoned with a secret dry rub, the steaks

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Their most popular night is Monday, thanks to their All-You-Can-Eat Steak and Shrimp special for $19.95 ($14.95 for steak only).

Reservations are not required, but suggested, as they are fortunate enough to have a steady crowd year-round as opposed to seasonally.

Texas Cattle is also a full service catering company. Providing food for 50 to 3,000, they’ll travel anywhere from Tallahassee to the Keys. With a separate catering menu ranging from steak to pulled pork BBQ, they smoke on site and can help coordinate everything from linen rentals to ice sculptures.

Texas Cattle Company has something to satisfy the meat and seafood lover in everyone. It’s been the ideal place to enjoy delicious food and wine in a casual setting for 40 years, and we hope to see many more!

information 735 E. Main Street Lakeland, FL 33801 Phone: (863) 686-1434 Fax: (863) 682-0726 HOURS Sunday-Thursday 5 – 10 pm Friday-Saturday 5 – 11 pm Texascattlecompany.net facebook.com/pages/Texas-CattleCompany-Lakeland Price range: $16.95 to $34.95 Credit cards accepted

Hungry cowboys can enjoy a 32 oz.

Porterhouse ($34.95), or the really adventurous can try the Six-Pound Texas Challenge. Finish a massive 6 lb. slab of beef, salad, bread and side in under an hour and 15 minutes and it’s free. In White’s 21-year tenure, she’s seen it completed only three times, although an attempt is made about every six to eight weeks.

Their starter menu also boasts what was once chosen as Polk County’s #1 appetizer: Blue

Steaks aged and cut in house. Photo by Valerie McCutcheon

LAPTOP SHOP 535 Avenue B NW Winter Haven, FL, 33880 863-207-2348

RKY SEAFOOD

175 Avenue A NW Winter Haven, FL, 33880 863-294-2300

Music World &

Fine JeWelry 48 3rd street nW Winter Haven, Fl 33880

863-299-0444

FULLY LICENSED & INSURED

863-286-5922 www.lakelandmoonwalk.com

party supplies bounce houses combo units waterslides rockwalls laser tag dunk tanks & more!

50% off

20% OFF A NY WATERSLID E OF YOUR CHOICE!

any concession with the rental of an inflatable.

Follow us on facebook for updates on specials and event information.

Promotions end 04/31/2013.

FOCUS Magazine polk county april 2013

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2

events

can’t miss SUN n’ FUN

Ice Cream

festival

SUN ‘n FUN, the annual international fly-in and expo held at Lakeland Linder Airport, kicks off its 39th year on Sunday, April 7 and runs until the following Sunday, April 14.

SUN‘n FUN is the second largest gathering of pilots and aircraft owners in the nation. Even if you’re not an aircraft owner or aviation enthusiast, SUN ‘n FUN has something for everyone of all ages. For the full schedule of events and activities, log on to sun-n-fun.org.

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APRIL

friday

Wingin’ It Festival City of Winter Haven Airport Gates open at 1 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. Saturday Competition Chicken Wing Cookoff to showcase best backyard and professional teams in Central Florida. Flyin event will also feature live bands, eating contests, and other entertainment.

Proceeds benefit Bryce’s Buddies Juvenile Diabetes Foundation.

For more info check out winginitfestival.com or call 863-585-6849

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saturday

Achievement Academy’s Rise and Shine Walk for Kids First Presbyterian Church | 7:30 a.m.

175 Lake Hollingsworth Dr., Lakeland Proceeds will benefit the Achievement Academy, a pre-kindergarten charter school providing education and therapy services to children with developmental delays/ disabilities in Polk County.

For more information call 863-683-6504.

Family Fun & Fitness at the Fountain Downtown Winter Haven | 9 to 11 a.m.

Free workout held by instructors from Gold’s Gym. For those new to exercise, as well as the already fit.

Dixieland Spring Art Fest Dixieland Village Parking Lot | 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

1035 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland Fine arts, photography, painting, jewelry, wood, textiles, sculpture, mixed media, food vendors, and entertainment hosted by the Dixieland Historic Neighborhood Association.

For more information contact Mary Smith at 863-6821468.

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monday

St. Joseph’s School Foundation 22nd Annual Golf Tournament and Auction Grasslands Golf and Country Club | 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

1600 Grasslands Blvd., Lakeland Proceeds provide scholarship assistance for children that would not be able to receive a private, Catholic education.

For more information or to make a contribution, contact Laurie McDonald at lmcdonald@stjosephlakeland.org or 863-698-9470.

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wednesday

PACE “Believing in Girls Luncheon” Lakeland Yacht Club | 12 to 1 p.m.

929 Lake Hollingsworth Dr., Lakeland Annual fundraiser for PACE POLK Center for Girls, an organization that provides education, counseling, training, and advocacy for girls ages 12 through 18.

For more information call 863-698-3705.

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saturday

Race for the Kids Foundation: Professional Hydroplane Racing Citrus Center Boys and Girls Club 2400 Havendale Blvd., Winter Haven Action packed fun for the whole family featuring professional race teams from all over the country, as well as food vendors, a beer garden, and a raffle.

For more information visit raceforthekidsfoundation.org.

9th Annual Autism Awareness Walk/5K Run & Family Day Anchor Park at Lake Hollingsworth Across from Florida Southern College 5K Run - 7 a.m.

Walk and Family Fun Event - 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Come out for information from agencies and groups serving individuals with autism. There will be balloon art, face painting, pony rides, bounce houses, and other children’s activities.

For more information call 863-816-5886.

Sample some of your favorite flavors or try something new at the first annual Florida Ice Festival on Saturday, April 6 at Lakeland’s Joker Marchant Stadium, presented

by Magnify Credit Union. Over 30 local ice cream artisans and vendors will be in attendance to treat your sweet tooth, in addition to live music, face painting, bounce houses, pony rides, wall climbs, and various eating, art, and sculpting contests. Don’t miss the main event, Major League Eating’s World Ice Cream Eating Championship, featuring Joey Chestnut, five-time winner of the annually televised Nathan Hot Dog Eating Contest. Come be a part of this Lakeland first! Gates open at 10 a.m.

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saturday

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saturday

SPCA Florida Walk for Animals Lake Mirror Promenade | 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join hundreds of two and four-legged fans to raise funds and awareness. Event promotes animal and human health and exercise.

Register today or form a team to raise funds and awarness for SPCA Florida: spcaflorida.org/walk.

March for Babies First Presbyterian Church | 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

175 Lake Hollingsworth Dr., Lakeland 6-mile walking event to benefit the March of Dimes mission to make sure every baby is born healthy.

For more information call 863-687-8909. Register at marchforbabies.org.

Traffick Jam Walk-a-thon First Presbyterian Church | 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

175 Lake Hollingsworth Dr., Lakeland Proceeds go to the Hard Places Community, an organization fighting the horrific child sex trafficking industry in Cambodia. Apart from the 10-mile walk, event will feature a worship band concert, food, bounce houses, and more.

Register online at fuelcommunitychurch.com for $10.

Concert Under the Stars Bok Tower Gardens | 7 to 9 p.m.

1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales Fun and inspiring performances by Grammy Award Winner banjo virtuoso Alison Brown and Grammynominated folk-rock, bluegrass fusion, soul and jazz band The Duhks.

Adults $25, children $10.

Visitors encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, insect repellant, and flashlights.

Art Party 21 Wall Foss Financial | 7 to 11 p.m.

212 E. Highland Dr., Lakeland Sponsored by Platform Art, event will feature visual art, film fashion, sound, and performance pieces along with food, beer, and wine.

Discount advance tickets for $10 available at platformart. com. Tickets $20 at the door.

Call 863-838-2262 for more information.

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friday

The Lakeland Derby Lake Mirror Promenade | 5:30 p.m.

Race time at 7:30 p.m., Fireworks at 9:15 p.m.

Free, one of a kind event in the Lakeland area, featuring race between 10 beautiful swan paddle boats. Live music, food, and beverages will be available. Benefitting the Lakeland Volunteers in Medicine.

relay for life Take time to support Polk County residents as they come together to honor cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against a disease that has already taken too much.

Friday, April 5 | 6 p.m.

Auburndale High School 1 Bloodhound Trl, Auburndale

Friday, April 19 | 6 p.m.

Kathleen High School 1100 Red Devil Way, Lakeland

Friday, April 5 | 6 p.m.

Lake Wales High School 1 Highlander Way, Lake Wales

Friday, April 26 | 6 p.m.

Mulberry High School 1 Panther Pl., Mulberry

Tuesday, April 12 | 5 p.m.

Downtown Bartow Main St. and N. Broadway

Friday, April 26 | 6 p.m.

Lake Eva Park 55 Ledwith Ave., Haines City

Friday, April 19 | 5 p.m.

Lake Region High School 1995 Thunder Rd., Eagle Lake

Health Connection A free service just for you!

Winter Haven Hospital’s Health Connection is your direct

connection to our many community services, classes, programs, special events and expert healthcare information.

At the Winter Haven Hospital Health Connection, you will find a friendly and accurate source for: • Physician Referrals • Health Information and Health Risk Assessments • Registration for programs, classes, health fairs and special events • Health care support groups • Winter Haven Hospital’s Speakers’ Bureau, which offers free medical speakers to non-profit and civic organizations

AN AFFILIATE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA COLLEGE OF MEDICINE AND SHANDS HEALTHCARE

To connect with our friendly and informative Health Connection staff, call (863) 291-6705 or (800) 416-6705 Compassion. Innovation. Trust. We’re your family’s choice.

FOCUS Magazine polk county april 2013

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336 Magnolia Ave. SW • Winter Haven, Florida (863) 299-9999 • AndyThornal.com • Mon-Sat • 10am - 6pm