FOCUS Brandon 04-12 by Floyd Publications

FREE

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 12 • AUGUST 2011 FOCUSBRANDON.COM

BRANDON EDITION

Ŷ Ŷ ŶŮ

Ŷ Ŷ ŶĜ Ŷ ĝŶ Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ

ĝ Ŷ Ŷ

Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ Ŷ Ň ŶŶ Ŷ Ŷ

Ŷ Ŷ

$200 Oﬀ

Full Orthodontic Treatment. Valid to New Patients Only. Coupon must be presented at time of appointment. Not valid with any other discount or coupon. Expiration Date: October 31, 2011.

813-689-7100

705 N. Parsons Ave., Brandon, FL www.MoonLawGroup.com

Family Law

Personal Injury

Bankruptcy

• Foreclosures • Short Sales • Transactions

• Divorce • Custody • Child Support • Chapter 7, 11, & 13 Paul M. Tabio, Esq. Attorney and Counselor

Mark M. Moon, Esq. Attorney and Counselor

Alexis K. Logan, Esq. Attorney and Counselor

Over 40 Years Combined Experience • Evening Appointments Available

Business Law

• Car Accident • Slip & Fall

Real Estate

• Purchasing • Contracts • Start-Ups

Criminal Law

Estate Planning

Veteran Law

• Wills, Trusts, & Probate

• Misdemeanors • Felonies • VA Appeals

• Se Habla Español

“JULY ESTATE PLANNING SPECIAL” Simple Will for only $150.00 The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications.

Get Your check-up before school starts back!

LEATHER & VINYL REPAIR/RESTORE Carpet/Vinyl Flooring Seating • Paint AUTOS

Residential & Commercial

Repair? Like New in Minutes Cost-effective - Dramatic Results

RV’S

Before

Get those cars looking brand new before you send your kids off to school!

Boats • Yachts • RV’s • Golf Carts

After

RESTAURANTS

OFFICES

Autos (including Vintage & Luxury) • Exterior Paint Touch-Up Graphics • Windshields • Pinstriping Consoles/Dashboards • Office Interiors/Reception Areas Restaurants (including seating)

BOATS & YACHTS

Vinyl Siding

VINYL SIDING

Call Sean or Tom

813-681-4002 877-433-1333 (Toll Free)

Magazine brandon august OF WESTFOCUS CENTRAL FLORIDA

2011

Table of Contents 21 07 08 14 07 Local

The patriots of Brandon will enjoy local stories this month, including a recap of the July 4th Parade and information about how you can help Everyday Heroes USA help our soldiers and their families.

Volume 4 Issue 12 • August 2011

focusbrandon.com

30 on the cover Cami Gibertini

14 Feature

Over the years, Brandon’s leading food pantry has provided food and clothing assistance to more than 130,000 people, over half of which were children (300 families each month). ECHO’s ultimate goal, however, is to “foster self-help, selfreliance and independence.” This amazing volunteer organization could use our help.

Brandon’s Honorary Mayor

18 Spotlight interview

Meet Cami Gibertini, the 2011-2012 Honorary Mayor for the Greater Brandon Community. She’s excited to continue her volunteer work, not only with ECHO Brandon and the Campo Family YMCA, but with the various other charities who serve our residents with excellence.

30 dining profile

Caution: Once you read this restaurant review, you will want to head to Julio’s Latin Grille, whether you’re hungry or not. Affordable, flexible, and definitely your soon-tobe favorite eatery, the gourmet quality will earn your loyalty.

27 - business profile 21 - anna maria island

31 - Event Calendar

Licensing Opportunity

Licensed territories are available. We are looking to expand the family and are looking for motivated individuals to join our award winning team. If you are interested in owning your own Focus Magazine contact Mike Floyd at 813.707.8783 ext 26.

august 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

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

FOCUS Magazine brandon august 2011

Make This Year Your Child’s Best School Year Ever Huntington is offering

$49 Academic Evaluation Call today to take advantage of this special offer

Letter From The Publisher I grew up with a perception of church that tithing was something you did out of obligation; it was a rule. We were taught that you give 10% of your income because that’s what the Bible says you should do. Those funds help keep the church doors open and fund ministries. A couple times a year a special offering would be collected that funded national and international mission trips. For some reason, it left this impression on me that we paid money so that other people could fulfill the purpose of the church. As an adult, I am beginning to see a completely different perspective on the idea of giving. At the church I currently attend, each week when they get up to talk about the offering, they don’t talk about giving a percentage of your income. Rather, each week someone shares something from their heart about how we are called to live a life of generosity. Over the last couple years it has really helped me to see a completely different perspective on the idea of offering. If you completely change your mindset to live with a generous spirit, then giving will become an instinct rather than a chore. I’m not saying that you should or should not tithe, but rather having your heart in place when you give. This month we interviewed Cami Gibertini, the new Honorary Mayor of Brandon. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the article that Cheryl did because it gave me a glimpse into the life she lives, outside of just being a banking professional. After reading her interview, there is no question or debate about Cami’s idea of generosity. Her life is overflowing with a spirit of giving, and she has no inhibitions about leading the way.

Huntington Learning Center 1590 Bloomingdale Avenue Valrico, FL 33596 813-681-1500

One of the organizations that weighs heavily on her heart and is a benefactor of the funds raised in the honorary race is ECHO. We chose to feature this non-profit organization this month because of the profound impact it has on the greater Brandon community. ECHO is run by only two full-time employees, Stacey Efaw and Joni Damico, but with more than 100 volunteers behind the scenes and several community non-profit organizations financially supporting their mission, ECHO is able to thrive. They provide tangible and financial help to families who are in need. Check out the article on them this month highlighting the incredible work they do in the community. The only reason that ECHO was ever birthed into existence and has been able to stay alive the last 24 years has been because individuals chose to live a life of generosity. They did not feel it was the responsibility of others to help their community, but rather chose to step up to the plate and fill the void. I hope that all of us are finding a way to give of our time, resources and finances to live a life of generosity.

Accredited by AdvanceEd • Independently owned and operated 2011 Huntington Mark, LLC

Mike Floyd - Publisher mike@floydpublications.com

SEE OUR OFFERS BELOW!

FISHHAWK ......................FISHHAWK 16707 FISHHAWK BLVD. ...654-7991

20% OFF

ENTIRE ORDER

APOLLO BEACH ................................Apollo Beach 220 Apollo Beach Blvd ...............................645-1499 BLOOMINGDALE ..... Royal Oaks Shopping Center 3248 Lithia-Pinecrest Rd ........................... 654-8113 BLOOMINGDALE ...... Just S. of Bloomingdale Ave. 3513 Bell Shoals Rd. .................................645-9292 BRANDON ............................. Lake Brandon Village 11393 Causeway Blvd. ..............................643-6944 FISHHAWK ...............................................Fishhawk 16707 Fishhawk Blvd. ...............................654-7991 RIVERVIEW .......................................Goolsby Point 11697 Boyette Rd. .....................................672-1832 VALRICO ...........................................Valrico Square 1985 E. Brandon Blvd. ...............................654-2324 VALRICO .......................... Shoppes Brandon Farms 2511 E Brandon Blvd. ................................643-4825 RIVERVIEW .............................River Springs Center 13414 Boyette Rd. .....................................657-8497

Shirts & Dry Cleaning Valid on incoming orders only. No exceptions. Not valid with other coupons or promotions. Expires: 9/1/11 FM

20% OFF

ENTIRE ORDER

Shirts & Dry Cleaning Valid on incoming orders only. No exceptions. Not valid with other coupons or promotions. FM Expires: 9/1/11

20% OFF

ENTIRE ORDER

Shirts & Dry Cleaning Valid on incoming orders only. No exceptions. Not valid with other coupons or promotions. Expires: 9/1/11 FM

20 OFF %

Wedding Gowns, Comforters, Blankets, Alterations, Drapes

Minimum Order $5. Valid on incoming orders only. No exceptions. Not valid with other coupons or promotions FM Expires: 9/1/11

august 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information.

Publisher Mike Floyd mike@floydpublications.com

Floyd Publications, Inc. 702 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563

Office Manager Dede Floyd dede@floydpublications.com

Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990

Copy Editor Cheryl Johnston cjohnston@floydpublications.com

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

So if you notice anything that is incorrect, then please do not hesitate to contact the editorial department and inform it about the fact error. To do so, call (813) 707-8783 or e-mail editorial@floydpublications.com. The staff will fix the error in a timely manner. FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants and many local venues. 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.

FOCUS Magazine brandon august 2011

Local » Focus

Hot, Hot, Hot! Brandon’s Independence Day

Spectators on Parsons Ave, Brandon, 4th of July Parade 2011. photo by Yenni M. Djajalaksana

Celebration Sizzled Written By: Cheryl Rogers-Turner

he owner of Curves of Brandon mentioned that it wasn’t really that hot on July 4th of this year. It was comfortable if you were a native of Indonesia, which sits right on the Equator. But for the rest of us, it was definitely a hot day in July in the state of Florida, USA. Yenni Djajalaksana marched in Brandon’s Independence Day Parade this year with several of her employees and members of the famous gym, Curves of Brandon. “It’s not too hot, it feels like home! In Indonesia we have this temperature every day,” encouraged Djajalaksana. In spite of the heat and humidity, all parade participants and spectators seemed to have had a great time. Presented by Brandon’s Community Roundtable, the parade began at 10:00 a.m. at the corner of Lumsden and Parsons Avenue. La Viva Plaza at the northwest corner of Kings and Lumsden Avenues served as the parade staging area. Floats and participants lined up on both sides of Lumsden, where the first of the 89 or so participants headed north down Parsons. The route turned west at Robertson Street and ended at Buckingham Place a little over two hours later. Streets along the parade route were closed from 7:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Parade participants had a maximum of one minute to perform at the judge’s reviewing stand

located in front of the Copper Bell Café on Parsons Avenue at Oakfield. For over two hours young boys and girls lined the streets armed with Super Soakers which helped them cool off and enabled them to hose off sweaty parade participants. One dad mentioned he had brought along a fivegallon jug of water to fill the super soakers and water guns. He had to run to his office to fill it several times during the parade. Almost everyone lining the streets to watch Brandon’s 2011 Independence Day Parade

Yenni Djajalaksana, owner of Curves of Brandon, and participant in Brandon’s 4th of July Parade. photo by Yenni M. Djajalaksana

held bottled water. Shade trees were scarce, but the heat and lack of shade did not discourage the crowd lining the streets on Parsons Ave and West Robertson Street. In spite of the heat, spectators were in great spirits.

Celebrating freedom is one tradition that Americans cherish and will sacrifice to commemorate, no matter the weather.

Where Brandon Ends and the FUN Begins! • Dinner • DJs • Live Bands • Dancing • Ladies Night

• Late Night Menu • Pool • Arcade Games • Karaoke

Something For ALL! 8

august 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

813-685-9218

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

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

SATURDAY AUGUST 6TH, 2011 8a.m. - 4p.m. COUPON REQUIRED

5.00 OFF

THRIFT STORE

ANY PURCHASE

on any purchase $20.00 or more. 1 coupon per visit, per customer. Not valid with any other oямАer. expires 9/02/11.

813-438-8910 173 EAST BLOOMINGDALE AVENUE FAX 813-438-8911 BLOOMINGDALE PLAZA BACKBYDEMAND@TAMPABAY.RR.COM BRANDON, FLORIDA 33511 WEBSITE: BACKBYDEMANDTHRIFT.WEBS.COM FOCUS Magazine brandon august 2011

Local » Focus in Iraq and Afghanistan, and a brand new father, who has his hands full these days working to match service providers to those in need. For example, he is currently working to assist a veteran of the war in Iraq who is a college student recently involved in an automobile accident. The party who caused the accident had no insurance, and the Vet in need has no rental reimbursement coverage on his automobile insurance policy. Mockler is trying to work with a rental car company offering military discounts so the student Veteran has transportation to school, or to locate someone willing to donate a reliable vehicle. This is what Mockler does; tirelessly searches day in and day out for businesses and individuals who will partner with him to take care of those who risk their lives to take care of us. Everyday Heroes USA has partnered with the Brandon Foundation’s Angel Program for a couple of years now, according to Debbie Kirkland, Administrative Director at the Foundation. Recently Mockler volunteered to assist in obtaining services for one of their Angel Families, a retired Naval Officer who

suffers with a debilitating disease and his wife, who spends most of her time caring for her husband, taking him to his many treatments, and caring for an ailing mother. Services needed include regular discounted lawn care, minor household repairs, and meals delivered on a daily basis. Phillip Mockler wants our heroes to know we care, and he believes there are plenty more people in our community who care as well. If you, your business, or your organization has something to offer in the way of assistance to our local heroes in need, Everyday Heroes USA wants to talk to you. If you have a business offering military discounts, and are not currently listed on Everyday Heroes USA database, or if you are an individual or business interested in volunteering, please contact Phillip Mockler, Everyday Heroes USA, 9331 Adamo Drive, Tampa, FL 33619. Website: www.everydayheroesusa.org; Phone: 813-309-2786; email: phillip@ everydayheroesusa.org. Your sacrifice will be greatly appreciated. Phillip Mockler, founder Everyday Heroes USA, Afghanistan, 2003. photo by provided by Everyday Heroes, USA

photo by provided by Everyday Heroes, USA

Everyday Heroes, Non-Profit Hero USA of the Month H Written By: Cheryl Rogers-Turner

umility is the thread that holds all successful non-profit organizations together. The founder of Everyday Heroes, USA, Phillip Mockler, exemplifies this character trait. Quick to smile and shake your hand, but reluctant to have his photo taken, Mockler gives all of himself and more to make this community a better place to live for thousands of military personnel, veterans, active or retired law enforcement, firefighters and their families. Founded in 2007, Everyday Heroes USA has seven members on its board of directors, all volunteers. Mockler meets twice weekly with his president to strategize regarding fundraising events, counseling, and job placement services which assist local heroes

august 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

in need. By compiling a list of businesses and organizations who offer services and discounts, the seven volunteers have become heroes themselves to many in Hillsborough and surrounding counties. Their largest fundraising event is the annual Celebrity Softball game, sponsored by the Tampa Yankees. Mockler credits the Tampa Yankees as being his first supporter - a team that faithfully stands with him today as his organization grows. The Celebrity Softball team includes players from the NFL, MLB, NHL, elected local officials and radio personalities. They play at Steinbrenner Stadium against the USF Women’s Softball team in the spring each year. Mockler is himself a veteran of the wars

photo by provided by Everyday Heroes, USA

Brandon Chamber Of Commerce » Focus

BRANDON CHAMBEr Business briefing FISHHAWK SUMMER EVENING FEST The 3rd Annual FishHawk Summer Fest, presented by Verizon Fios, will be held on Tuesday, August 2nd, at the Palmetto Club, 17004 Dorman Rd., Lithia. Exhibitor and Sponsorship packages are available. For more information, contact Amber Aaron at aaaron@brandonchamber.com, or 813689-1221, ext. 8815.This event is free to attend and will include family-friendly fun, a business showcase and samples of local restaurants. SMALL BUSINESS EDUCATION In partnership with the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, the Hillsborough County Small Business Information Center (SBIC) holds FREE small business counseling every Tuesday and Wednesday, 8:30a.m. to 4:00p.m. at the Chamber. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 813-689-1221. This month’s FREE Working Smarter Workshops, led by counselors of the Hillsborough County Small Business Information Center, is “Doing Business with Local Government”. It will be held Tuesday, August 16th, 9:30a.m. to 11:30a.m. Attendees will learn how to register with Local, State and Federal Government agencies for bidding; how to find bidding opportunities and where assistance can be found. For more information, or to register, please contact Jamie Reid at jreid@brandonchamber.com or 813-689-1221, ext. 8843. BIZ ED 101 SEMINAR SERIES “Behind the Business: 2010 Small Business Winners” will be held Wednesday, August 24th, 11:00a.m.-1:00p.m. at the Brandon Chamber, 330 Pauls Dr., Brandon. Cost is $18 for Brandon Chamber members and $30 for potential members with lunch included. Learn the backstory of locally recognized businesses. The facilitated panel discussion will explore the paths that led to their business as it is today, challenges overcome along the way, new products and innovation. Featured 2010 Small Business of the Year Winners include: Rinky Parwani with Parwani Law, P.A.; Barbara Kemp with Kemp Design Services; Dr. Michael Sip with Sip Signature Dentistry; Chef Dave West with Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium and Greg Celestan with Celestar Corporation. For more information or to register please visit www.brandonchamber.com or contact Jamie Reid at jreid@brandonchamber.com, or 813-689-1221, ext. 8843. LEADERSHIP BRANDON You are invited to attend the 12th Annual Leadership Brandon Alumni Casino Night event on Friday, August 12th, 6:30pm -11:00pm, at Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association. Cost is $30 and includes; $2,500 in Casino Fun Money, door prizes, silent auction, hors d’oeuvres, complimentary beverage and much more. Separate $20 buy in for the Texas Hold’em Tournament. Tickets and sponsorships are still available, please visit www.leadershipbrandon.com or contact Crystal Colegrove at ccolegrove@brandonchamber. com, or 813-689-1221, ext. 8824 or Laura Cook at lcook@brandonchamber.com, ext. 8846 for more information. Proceeds from this event benefit The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce

Leadership program and other Alumni community enrichment programs. AUGUST NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES Business After Hours – Tuesday, August 9th, 5:30pm, hosted by Bivins & Hemenway, P.A., 1060 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico. Networking at Noon – Tuesday, August 16th, 12:00pm, hosted by Rasmussen College, 4042 Park Oaks Blvd., Tampa. Coffee Club – Tuesday, August 23rd, 8:00am, hosted by Sunshine State Federal Savings & Loan Association, 420 W. Brandon Blvd., Brandon. CONGRESSIONAL UPDATE LUNCHEON Come hear from confirmed speakers Congressman Gus Bilirakis and Congressman Dennis Ross on Thursday, August 11th, 12:00noon, at the Embassy Suites, 10220 Palm River Rd., Tampa. Speakers will discuss; How Congress is working to help small business, Improving the economy, Latest discussions on national debt, Understanding the debt ceiling, Plans for saving Medicare and much more through a question and answer session. Seats at $18 for Brandon Chamber members and $23 for potential members. Corporate table preferred seating is also available at $170 for Chamber members and $210 for potential members. For more information or to register please contact Crystal Colegrove at ccolegrove@brandonchamber.com or Laura Cook at lcook@brandonchamber.com or by contacting the Chamber offices, 813-689-1221. YOUNG PROFESSIONALS - BRANDON Are you under 39 years of age? Or feel like it??? Then this group is for you. YP Brandon inspires young professionals to Lead by example, Grow by association, and Give back to the Brandon community. Come join the Young Professionals at Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill, 136 Brandon Town Center Dr., Brandon, Thursday, August 4th, 5:30pm, for a Networking Social. This event is FREE for YP members and $5 for guests. Can’t make the social? Join us for a Straight Up Networking Luncheon on Wednesday, August 10th, 11:45am, at Longhorn Steakhouse, 11102 Causeway Blvd., Brandon. For more information on YP Brandon or their events please contact Crystal Colegrove at ccolegrove@brandonchamber.com or 813-689-1221, ext. 8824, Victoria Singletary at vsingletary@brandonchamber.com, ext. 8836 or visit www.ypbrandon.com.

As Unique as

your Smile

Come see what makes us

different!

• Family Dentistry • Cosmetic Dentistry • Rehabilitative Dentistry • Emergencies Welcome

Call for an appointment:

813-689-9623

110 Knights Avenue N. Brandon, Florida 33510 www.sipsignaturedentistry.com

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS ADT Security Services, Inc.; Anointed Productions of Tampa Bay; ATE-DBA Country Café; Back by Demand, LLC; Berg & Wheeler, P.A.; Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More; Bloomingdale Growers & Nursery; Bond Jewelers; Brandon Day School; Duffey Tree Care, LLC; Gator Air; Hillsborough County Anti Drug Alliance; Kingdom Communities, LLC; Lakewood Ranch Telecomm, Inc.; Law Offices of Laurie E. O’ Hall, P.A.; Medi Weight Los Clinics; Quality of Life; South Shore Sound Chorus; Strawberry Ridge and The Karenko Law Firm, P.A.

FOCUS Magazine brandon august 2011

Mark Your Calendars! For The

2nd Annual

WinterFest at Winthrop December 2nd—4th Register Now: - Craft and Food Vendors

Title Sponsor:

- Sponsors - Local Dance & Music Groups Contact the Brandon Foundation at : (813)- 689-6889 info@brandonfoundation.com www.WinterFestAtWinthrop.com

Family Fun, Entertainment and Vendors to help start your holiday season off with a smile. Winthrop Christmas tree lighting, Santa’s Workshop, 5K run and much, much more!

December 2– 4 Winthrop Town Centre Corner of Providence & Bloomingdale Riverview, Florida Benefiting the Brandon Foundation and its registered charities.

At PrimeCare Plant City, you get more than just medical attention; you get our undivided attention. With complete health care services, we offer everything from routine checkups to treatments of minor emergencies. Above all, we offer patients the kind of old-fashioned, personal service that's hard to find these days.

Stop by to take a tour of our office and meet the doctors & staff.

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AND SAME-DAY APPOINTMENTS ARE AVAILABLE!

Dr. Sumita Chandran

Dr. Alejandro Diaz

813-717-9000 • 1706 South Alexander Street Plant City, Fl 33563 Regular Office Hours: Monday thru Friday 8AM-5PM (Lunch 12 NOON - 1PM) SE HABLA ESPANOL

O’Neal & Sons Upholstery

Quality Craftsmanship Spanning 4 Generations

We specialize in everything from Automotive, Marine, Home Furniture and Commercial Applications AUTOMOTIVE

Seats and cushions • Carpets • Headliners • Door Panels Convertible tops • Vinyl tops • Tonneau Covers

HOME FURNITURE

Couches • Love seats • Chairs • Bar stools

MARINE

Seats and cushions • Carpets • Bimini Tops • Clear plastic Windows T-Top canvas replacements • Console and boat covers

1957 EDSEL

COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS

Restaurant Booths and Chairs • Bar Railings • Long Wall Seats Custom Golf Cart Seats • Pool and Spa Areas • Customized Seating

2303 James Redman Pkwy., Suite G • Plant City, FL 33563 Phone: (813)-752-0405 • onealandsons@verizon.net www.onealandsons.net FOCUS Magazine brandon august 2011

Feature» ECHO

ECHO Exists to Help with Emergencies Volunteers Make All the Difference Written By: Cheryl Johnston

he Greater Brandon Area community is one of the most generous in Florida. To verify this statement, one need look no further than www.echofl.org, website of ECHO, the Emergency Care Help Organization or view the ECHO page on Facebook. Perhaps a better confirmation would be a conversation with anyone who has ever worked with, volunteered for, or received from this amazing organization. ECHO Brandon Florida, a 501(c)3 organization, provides assistance with food and clothing to area residents who have experienced a recent emergency. Established in 1987, ECHO relies on community

august 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

donations and dedicated volunteers. And this community responds in a big way to the organization awarded the prestigious “Nonprofit of the Year” Award in 2010 from The Community Roundtable. On average, about 300 families each month apply for assistance. In this economic climate, that number from all walks of life is increasing because of circumstances such as job loss, reduced work hours, illness, injury, fire, divorce, catastrophe and caregiving. ECHO covers specific zip codes of the Brandon, Lithia, Dover, Gibsonton, Seffner, Valrico, Riverview areas and collaborates additionally with several food banks. Over the years, Brandon’s leading food pantry has provided food and clothing

assistance to more than 130,000 people, over half of which were children. The mission is “to continue serving people in need of food, clothing and small household items in times of an emergency.” ECHO’s ultimate goal, however, is to “foster selfhelp, self-reliance and independence.”

Efaw works continually to build relationships with business leaders, partner organizations, volunteers, and the clients ECHO serves. Creatively, she develops new opportunities to broaden ECHO’s reach. Her value to the organization has been frequently described as “immeasurable.”

Two paid staff members coordinate the work: Stacey Efaw and Joni Damico. A Board of Directors provides professional oversight and guidance. Since 2002, Executive Director Efaw has guided operations and fundraising efforts. With a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of South Florida, the mother of two daughters and Leadership Brandon alumnus is a highly qualified leader.

Joni Damico began in 2004 to volunteer at ECHO and was hired as Center Director in 2009 because, according to Efaw, “We were looking for someone with supervisory experience and someone especially compassionate. Joni has a very good work ethic and is great with our volunteers and clients.” Damico is responsible for daily operations, coordinating and supervising volunteers,

Feature» echo assisting clients, and organizing special new fundraising events. She says of her job, “Every day I leave work with such a wonderful feeling that I’ve made a difference in people’s lives. ECHO is one big happy family of which I’m proud to be a part. Our more than 100 loving, caring volunteers would do anything to help someone in need. It would be impossible for the Center to thrive without them.” ECHO recently received a $16,296 check from The Community Roundtable as the designated charity of Brandon’s new 20112012 Honorary Mayor, Cami Gibertini. The Senior Vice-President of USAmeriBank in Brandon serves also on ECHO’s Board of Directors. A particular need now is to transform the food storage room into a Client Center. Efaw explained, “We are creating the Client Center because we’ve noticed many clients need so much more than just food and clothing. The mayor’s race money will be the seed, but we need to raise more to get it off the ground.”

How to Help Efaw explains, “ECHO is very easy to help. Cash donations, food, clothing, personal hygiene items and household items are always welcome. Additionally, with a permanent staff of only two, we serve 11,000+ people annually. This is only accomplished because of our wonderful volunteers. We currently have a need for administrative volunteers.” Families can donate food to our pantry, help with drives, or donate gently used clothes, towels, blankets, and household items. Churches, social clubs, civic groups, and businesses can collectively donate. For a list of most-needed items and drop-off points, visit www.echofl.org. Another way to help is simply by searching and shopping on the Internet. Go to www.goodsearch.com and select ECHO of Brandon. Search and shop as normal. ECHO will receive $.01 for every search and a percentage of online purchases made through GoodSearch and GoodShop. Shop all of your regular national retailers in this method and ECHO will benefit.

Services Available

Individual Volunteer Opportunities

There are no stereotypes of the proud people who come to ECHO for help through a difficult situation. “All are treated with the respect and confidentiality they deserve,” according to Efaw, “for the courage they demonstrate to lift themselves up.” The ECHO staff and volunteers consider it an honor to serve the community in this way. The organization also offers resources to assist the homeless.

Experienced or not, at ECHO all volunteers make a difference. Efaw and DAmico make it a priority to create meaningful opportunities for its community helpers. Shifts are scheduled from either 8:30am12:30p.m. or 10:00a.m.-2:00p.m. MondayFriday. Four regular weekly positions are available: Clothing Sorter, Clothing Hanger/Client Check-out, Food Bank Volunteer, or Administrative helper. (View task descriptions online.)

Clients receive all items free of charge. Clients receive seven days worth of food per visit. Meat, cheese, eggs, butter, flour and sugar are supplied in addition to a variety of non-perishable items. If the need is clothing, ECHO provides each client with twelve outfits and three pairs of shoes. Children also receive two new pairs of socks and underwear or diapers.

Throughout the year ECHO features special events and projects. Volunteer duties can range from planning, serving on a committee, working the event or promoting it throughout the community. The event calendar is updated online.

Depending on the nature of the emergency, clients might also receive household items such as: linens, blankets, towels, small appliances, cookware, utensils, and decorative items. ECHO assists residents in these zip codes of Brandon, Lithia, Dover, Gibsonton, Seffner, Valrico and Riverview: 33510, 33511, 33527, 33534, 33547, 33569, 33578, 33579, 33584, 33594, 33596, 33610, 33619. Clients can visit ECHO a total of 4 times in a lifetime. Visits must be at least 6 months apart. Documents required each visit include an ECHO referral form**, current photo ID (driver’s license, original Social Security cards for all receiving help, and proof of address. **Forms are available at most Brandon area churches (i.e. 1st Baptist Brandon, Bay Life, Word of Grace, etc.) or through social service agencies such as Salvation Army, DCF, Health and Social Services).

Group Volunteer Opportunities ECHO offers volunteer groups a variety of opportunities for service in a team environment. Nonprofit organizations such as Rotary, Kiwanis, Masons, church groups, and others are always encouraged to participate part time. Corporate and Social Groups add to ECHO’s strong, supportive network. Businesses also reap the rewards of team building exercises and community improvement where they live and work. There are many ways your group can help. Volunteer at a special event or host a

fundraiser. Use a fun idea from the past or create something new. Trick or treat for food, go Christmas Caroling for cans, collect food at holiday parties, or conduct drives to help with continual needs such as diapers, children’s underwear and socks. Creating project kits is a popular activity for students and church congregations. A few ideas include: Hurricane Kit; Children’s Kit - for children visiting ECHO with parents; and Homeless Kit.

Active All Year Long Visit ECHO’s online Event Calendar to view opportunities for individuals, families, or corporate teams to volunteer, shop, donate, and make a difference. MONTHLY Charity Thrift Sales- Once monthly Saturday sale, 8 AM-1PM at ECHO; Upcoming sales: August 6, September 10, October 1, and November 5 9th Annual ECHO Children’s Fashion Show- “Kids Helping Kids” provides the majority of funding required of ECHO to assist more than 5.000 children each year. The fundraising winner will be crowned Mr. ECHO or Miss ECHO on Saturday October 1, 2011 at The Bridges in Riverview Feed The Bay- Area churches work annually in March to feed the needy. ECHO needs approximately 100 volunteers to sort/ repackage donated food. Baubles, Barbeque & Bubbles- Annual signature event in May Stamp Out Hunger- America’s largest single day food drive, usually in May, organized by Campbell Soup Company and facilitated by the U.S. Postal Service. ECHO “Christmas in July” Charity Thrift Sale ECHO is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization located at 507 N. Parsons  in Brandon, Florida, 33510. Tax-deductible donations can be mailed, delivered, or processed online at www.echofl. org. Hours of operation are: Monday-Friday 9am- 2pm; Closed Saturday/Sunday (**clients needing assistance are asked to arrive at ECHO by 1:00pm. For additional information or to volunteer, phone 813-685-0935.

FOCUS Magazine brandon august 2011

5:00 p.m â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9:00 p.m. Wednesday Evenings

august 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

The Premier Showplace for Talent in Florida

JULY 15 COVER TO

COVER

The trio covers the top hits from yesterday to today! Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

JULY 16, 29 & 30 RALPH ALLOCCO

AUGUST 20 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, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds.

& SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

JULY 29 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

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

JULY 22 RICHIE

MERRITT

Richie Merritt, formally of the Marcels, will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room. Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

AUGUST 5 COVER TO

COVER

The trio covers the top hits from yesterday to today! Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

AUGUST 6, 12, 19 & 27 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

AUGUST 13 & 26 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

SEPTEMBER 2, 10, 17 & 23 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

SEPTEMBER 3 & 30 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

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

SEPTEMBER 24 THE MYSTICS

The Mystics, including, original members of the group, George Galfo and Phil Cracolici, will perform their hits, including their number one chart topper “Hushabye.” P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

Bring in this coupon to receive

OFF Your Entree

When you join us for

Dinner on Thursday Choose any entree from our menu

SEPTEMBER 9 COVER TO COVER

The trio covers the top hits from yesterday to today! Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

SEPTEMBER 16 RICHIE MERRITT

Richie Merritt, formally of the Marcels, will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room. Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

Good for Thursday nights only. Coupon expires - August 15, 2011 Must bring in this coupon for discount. One coupon per person / per check.

FCS

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

TEL: 813.752.3141

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

WWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COM

Mrs. Evelyn Madonia - Owner

FOCUS Magazine brandon august 2011

Spotlight» Cami Gibertini

he Community Roundtable celebrated the fundraising victories of its 2011 Honorary Mayor campaign with winner Cami Gibertini, the runner-up Barbara Schwabe, and their recipient charitable organizations this month at Center Place. The organization (The Roundtable Charities of Greater Brandon, Inc.) exists to “support the Greater Brandon Area by promoting community service and welfare through public events by collaborating with charities and local businesses.” The group whose motto is “Making a Difference Together” meets monthly on the second Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at Center Place. Individual members, and business or corporate representatives hear the goals of community help organizations in order to broaden the group’s purpose of assisting Greater Brandon Area charities. Those charities were definitely winners this year. Gibertini, who was sponsored by the Greater Brandon Kiwanis Club, raised “$40,741 to benefit Kiwanis and two non-profits, ECHO (Emergency Care Help Organization) and the Campo Family YMCA. Schwabe, of Fred Schwabe and Associates is so “passionate about volunteering” that she was able to raise $31,190 for Center Place Fine Arts and Civic Association with the help of her campaign manager Dana Johnson. Gibertini entertains big dreams. She said, “My platform is building on the foundation that faith and family are always first, that you can’t ever have enough friends, and that personal fitness really does matter. I hope to inspire the Brandon community to always have fun at whatever you do. Attitude is everything!” Her fun fundraising events included the Mayor’s Mall Crawl at Westfield Brandon, Mayor’s Fun Run 5K, Mayor’s “GNO Movie Night” at AMC Theaters, Combat Challenge at the Campo YMCA, and the Mayor’s Clay Shoot at Lithia Sporting Clays. Despite the tough economy, the Community Roundtable members were encouraged by the $71,931 raised by the candidates through their various events. The Community Roundtable and the sponsoring organization each receive 10 percent of the money the candidate raises, and the remaining 80 percent is split between the nonprofits. Stacey Efaw, executive director of ECHO expressed her appreciation as well: “ECHO is trying to raise funds to transform the current food storage room into and a Client Center because we’ve noticed many of the 12,000 residents we serve each year have needs so much greater than just food and clothing. The Mayor’s race contribution will be the seed money for this Center. We are extremely grateful for the community’s support.” Gibertini took a few moments this month to help our readers learn a little more about their new honorary mayor.

august 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

2011 Honorary Mayor

Cami Gibertini Attitude is Everything

Interview by Brian West Photos courtesy of Stephen B. Nickerson

Focus: Congratulations, Cami, to you and to the organizations your victory will help. Will you share a little about your family and your roots? I’ve been happily married for 19 years to Scott Gibertini and we have two children. Haley, 16, is a junior at Newsome High School and Ryan, 13, is an 8th grader at Randall Middle School. I’m from Arlington, Virginia and moved here in 1986. My father retired from MacDill AFB as a Lt. Colonel in the USMC. Focus: Tell us about your education and how you became a banking executive.

I’m a proud member of the Brandon Eagles Class of ’88 and a University of Florida graduate in 2003 from the Florida School of Banking in 2007 I completed degree work at the University of Wisconsin in the BAI Graduate School of Retail Banking. I “grew up” in the banking industry, from teller to executive offices, where I’ve worked for 21 years. Today I am a Senior Vice President / Retail Branch Manager for USAmeriBank. My husband Scott works as a Mortgage Loan Officer in our Downtown Tampa office. We met at Columbia Bank in 1988 and as they say, “The rest is history.”

Spotlight» Cami Gibertini Focus: Where do you see yourself 5 years from now? I’ll be banking for my customers and enjoying my son’s entry into college. I am excited about the future and hope I’ll be as healthy and active as I am today. With my kids off to school, maybe my husband and I can travel more! Focus: We know that many folks helped you in the mayoral race. Would you like to thank them in Focus? I’d like to thank all the supporters that came out to the events and supported our campaign. Throughout our campaign we encouraged people to give to the Mayor’s Race. No matter the candidate, the ultimate winners are the charities. I’d like to thank my family, friends and USAmeriBank for all their support! Most especially, I’d like to thank my Campaign Managers, Shannon Carlton and Lynn Langowski – the most fabulous women in Brandon! Focus: Thank you, Cami, for the contributions you make to enhance our community life. We appreciate the efforts, and the results, and look forward to a great year with you as Honorary Mayor of Brandon.

Pictured with newly elected 2011-2012 Honorary Mayor of Greater Brandon, Cami Gibertini (right of red “Y”), are representatives of the organizations who will benefit as a result of Gibertini’s victory: (L-R) Gena Schaffer wanis)??, Cindy Sofarelli (YMCA), ECHO Director Stacey Efaw (Emergency Care Help Organization), 2011-2012 Honorary Mayor Cami Gibertini, and 2008-2009 Honorary Mayor Tammy Holmberg (owner of Chick-Fil-A at Lake Brandon Village)

Focus: You are very active in the community. With what organizations or groups have you been involved? I am a graduate of the Leadership Brandon Class of 2000 and served as Co-Chair of the Class of 2002. In 2002-2003 I acted as Leadership Brandon Alumni Association President. I’m also a graduate of the Leadership Tampa Class of 2004. As for the charitable organizations, I am currently a Senior Advisory Board member of the Campo YMCA and was a Past Board of Director 2002 -2005. I have served on the ECHO Board since 2009 and act as chairperson for the annual Children’s Fashion Show. I’m also a member of the Greater Brandon Kiwanis Club. For five years until 2006, I belonged also to the Brandon 86 Rotary Club and was treasurer in 2003-2004. Playing an active role in the Brandon Chamber of Commerce is another opportunity. Focus: How did you become involved with The Community Roundtable and specif ically with the Honorary Mayor event?

At a community Bank event, I was nominated. My company was very excited and supported my run for Honorary Mayor.

truly cares for their employees; I have an excellent team of highly knowledgeable employees who take very good care of our customers in Brandon.

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

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

Hobbies! You’ll see me at my Y (Campo Family YMCA) five days a week. I love to Spin and body combat! We live a very active lifestyle. My husband is a runner, so we go together quite a bit. I also love to read and belong to a book club we started almost two years ago. It’s still going strong. Our family loves to travel. We enjoy all the major theme parks, the beach and the movies!

One favorite is ECHO’s Children’s Fashion Show, their largest annual fundraiser, for which I act as Chair. We had our first show nine years ago when my daughter was 7, and she’s been in it every year. This is a major event and so much fun for the kids and parents.

Focus: What do you enjoy most about your career and the work with CR and/or specif ic local charities?

I love that Brandon has all that a big city would offer, but with a hometown feel. I love that when I go to dinner or shop at Target or the Brandon Mall, I run into people I know. It’s friendly and accessible.

As a veteran banker, I love that I can help my customers. The mutual trust in our relationship is paramount and it’s about how I can help them achieve their financial goals. I am passionate about what I do and the service I provide to my customers. I work for an excellent company that

Focus: What do you enjoy most about living in and working in the Brandon community?

Focus: Would you encourage others to become involved with CR? Absolutely!

Attention Readers:

To offer congratulations or to get involved, stop in to see Mrs. Gibertini at USAmeriBank in Brandon at 668 Oakfield Drive. If you prefer, phone 813.315.3122 or communicate via e-mail to cgibertini@usameribank. com. To reach The Community Roundtable, phone 813-661-4350 or e-mail Vice-President Janine Nickerson at Roundtable2008@aol.com.

FOCUS Magazine brandon august 2011

Sculpted Cakes & Designer Cookies Whether it be cakes, cupcakes or cookies, our goal is to exceed your expectations!

Exclusively Yours! 813-679-4006 www.exclusivelyyours.cc

august 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

visit

a n n A

Consider spending the rest of your summer out on Anna maria island and while youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re there check out some great businesses featured in this section.

FOCUS Magazine brandon august 2011

august 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

The Shops on

Play, Shop & Dine on Pine Avenue, Anna Maria Island's Main Street and Boutique District

Enjoy the Freshest Seafood on the Island. Beachfront Dining with Sunset Views of Anna Maria.

Gifts and decors to inspire the Island life: including jewelry, accessories, handbags, resort apparel, baby items and unique gifts.

Providing weekly or monthly rentals in over 200 hand selected properties. Call the "Flip Flop Company" today to book your next vacation.

The Flip Flop Shop has a variety of Anna Maria souvenirs such as flip flops, beach bags, beach towels, candles, jewelry and much more.

Gourmet food market specializing in Extra Virgin Olive Oils.

Specializing in reclaimed painted vintage furniture for beach houses and coastal cottages. An eclectic store where you never know what you’ll find.

Our Anna Maria Guest House rentals are some of the most unique, beautifully furnished and “greenest” properties on Anna Maria Island.

Relish, believes being resourceful is always in style! It offers: Wearable Vintage, Upcycled One-Of-A-Kind Fashions, Handmade Housewares and Artisan Creations.

From golf cart, bicycle and kayak rentals to marine biologist guided Eco tours, Beach Bums has everything you need to make your vacation memorable.

ANNA

MARIA

FOCUS Magazine brandon august 2011

august 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

FOCUS Magazine brandon august 2011

Teaching Supplies for infants-8th grade

$5 off

Teachers, Homeschoolers, Preschools, Day Cares, Sunday Schools Shop Early For Back to School

purchase of $25 or more. Exp. August 31, 2011

Teachersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Helper, Inc. Parent/Teacher Store

TO K C A B L SCHOO

Before Liposuction

Call Today to Schedule Your

FREE Consultation

813.438.4680

After Liposuction

As appreciation for being a Focus Magazine reader, PREMIERE Center for Cosmetic Surgery is offering

500 OFF

Any Cosmetic Surgery Procedure PREMIERE Center is the pioneer of affordable, safe, high-quality, patient-focused cosmetic surgery. Join the thousands of people from all over who have experienced the difference.

109 Margaret St., Brandon, FL 33511

684-0688

fax:

689-0624

www.teachershelperonline.com M-F: 9am - 6pm

august 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

Sat: 9:30am - 4pm

www.PREMIERECENTER.com | 300 S. Hyde Park Avenue, Suite 100, Tampa, FL 33606 Limited Time Only. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount.

business Profile» Frontline fitness

The guys of Frontline: Jeremy Thurlow, owner and lead trainer; Chris Colbert, strength and conditioning coach; and Vince McGuinness, muay thai instructor.

Frontline Fitness Where Just ‘Getting Fit’ Got Its Butt Kicked Written By: Amanda Molinaro

et’s admit it - working out can be a drag.

Motivating yourself to work some gym time into your already busy work schedule is always a challenge. Often there are additional costs for help from a trainer on top of the monthly fee. Sometimes the workout area is crowded and you can never seem to get enough time on the elliptical machine. Then there’s the reps, oh, the repetitions the dull monotony of counting, counting while sweating. Just the thought of dealing with the funny smell in the locker room and the weird rash you get after using the back press machine can make you stay away from the gym. Citizens of Brandon, the frustration that comes with trying to get in shape is enough to make you want to punch a hole in a wall! If traditional workouts already make you feel like you could start punching things, that’s a good thing, because Brandon’s own Frontline Fitness has built its business around channeling that energy into a fitness plan. That’s right, you can spare your drywall from now

on and start kicking some butt while toning yours at the same time. Frontline Fitness is a gym and personal training program that combines a regimen of basic calisthenics with the exciting practice of mixed martial arts, or MMA. Founded just a little over a year ago by National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) certified personal trainer and former professional fighter Jeremy Thurlow, Frontline Fitness seeks to breathe some fresh air into the doldrums of just ‘getting fit.’ Those looking to enroll in classes need not to worry about any prior martial arts experience. In fact, the typical adult class can consist of people with a broad range of backgrounds, from new mothers looking to get back in shape, office paper-pushers pushing on into middle age, to young adults seeking to learn the fundamentals of MMA. Level one classes instill the disciplines of Muay Thai boxing, kickboxing, submission grappling or jiu-jitsu, traditional boxing, self-defense, and traditional boxing while

building a sense of community and family into a fitness class. Level two classes are for those who seek to advance their MMA with supervised sparring sessions. Some even go on to compete in local MMA and bouts tournaments. Private training sessions are also available for those who would like to customize their own fitness regimen.

still rings to high bars, tractor tires to leg presses and of course, sleds. They even take their training to Boing! Jump Center, the giant trampoline arena in Brandon, to add an extra element of excitement to fitness. So, if you are looking to get in shape, learn a discipline, or just to have some fun and release some stress, Frontline Fitness is the place for you. Visit getfrontlinefit.com for more details or visit the facility to talk to trainers. Join now and the first month is free!

Frontline also offers a youth training program that teaches self-discipline, selfconfidence, and self-respect to youngsters who learn to set positive goals while finding a place to fit in with their peers. Be sure to view their Youtube channel, search Information “getfrontlinefit” and see youth spokesper1-850-319-950 son George Anthony 8267 Unit A, Causeway BLVD, Tampa FL, 33619 Burdick-Espinel confidently boast, Monday, Wednesday and Friday “When bullies mess 9:00am – 10:00am Fitness and MMA with me, I mess with 5:00pm – 6:00pm Youth Fitness and Martial Arts them back,” and 6:15pm – 7:15pm Group Fitness finish with a fierce 7:15pm – 8:15pm MMA right-cross. Bring your daughter or son in today for one Tuesday and Thursday week of free classes. 5:00pm – 6:00pm Youth Fitness and Martial Arts The facility has more than ample amounts of gym and gymnastics equipment from

6:15pm – 7:15pm 7:15pm – 8:15pm

Group Fitness MMA

Saturday 10:00am – 12:00pm Open mat for members FOCUS Magazine brandon august 2011

Business Focus

Red Rose Five Star Fine Dining and Entertainment

Featuring original artists throughout the decades artists: • Ralph Alocco and Second Wind • Destiny • Free Time Jazz • Bobby Blackmon • Troy “Satchmo” Anderson- salute to the songs of Louie “Satchmo” Armstrong • Walt Maddox- salute to the songs of Nat King Cole • Bob Ryman “The Fiddler” • Bobby Palermo In addition to annual events and weekly dinner shows, in 2012 the Red Rose is expanding entertainment options by hosting a concert series that tributes the Doo Wop era of the ‘50s and ‘60s. Inspired by various appearances on Public Broadcasting Station Specials, Scarlett Marketing and Promotional Productions presents original artists in the upcoming Doo Wop Weekend Volume VI and PBS Memories Concert Series. A combination of Pop, Rock, and Soul will serenade listeners as all original artists bring back the best sounds and memories of the ‘50s and ‘60s. Doo Wop Weekend Volume VI and PBS Memories Concert Series Performances include:

n an elegant atmosphere where five star dining meets entertainment, enjoy an unforgettable evening at the Red Rose Dining Room. Guests have the opportunity to get up close with their favorite original artists they grew up listening to. More than just a dinner show, Red Rose entertainment offers Contemporary and Las Vegas style music that is sure to make your evening a dining experience. Treat yourself and support St. Jude’s by attending the annual St. Jude’s

august 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

Fundraiser Dinner Show in the luxurious Ball Room, November 12, 2011. Entertainment includes a Las Vegas style show “salute” group featuring songs of the Platters, Drifters and Coasters. Get in the sprit with featured holiday dinner shows “A Mystical Holiday Serenade” and “Winter Wonderland Gala” hosted in the spectacular Red Rose Ballroom, December 2011. Performing in the “Winter Wonderland Gala” is 1950’s pop music quartet, The Four Aces. In the dining

room, rock to the beat of The Mystics performing “A Mystical Holiday Serenade”. Then, ring in the 2012 New Year with the world renowned Platters Show in the dining room and The Legacy of the Temptations, a salute to The Temptations and The Platters in the Red Rose Ballroom. Every Friday and Saturday evening the Red Rose hosts a dinner show with various featured artists. Please check the entertainment schedule the website for information about upcoming shows featuring the following groups and

Barbara Harris and the Toys: Offering a wide variety of musical genres including Gospel, R&B, Blues, Rock, and Pop, this all girls group hit the charts in the mid 1960s. Performing is original lead singer, Barbra Harris, who is known for chart topping hits “A Lover’s Concerto” and “Attack”. Jimmy Gallagher: Original lead singer of The Passions, is a legend of Doo Wop popular throughout the 1950’s and 1960’s. The group was widely known for their top 100 hit “Just to Be with You”.

813-752-3141 I-4 Exit 21 2011 N. Wheeler St. Plant City, FL 33563 www.redroseinnandsuites.com 2011 Dinner Show Schedule:

November 12, 2011 - St. Jude’s annual Fundraiser in the Ballroom December 16, 2011 - Winter Wonderland Gala featuring “The Four Aces” December 17, 2011 - A Mystical Holiday Serenade featuring “The Mystics” December 31, 2011 - New Years Eve with The World Famous Platters and the Legacy of the Temptations

2012 Dinner Show Schedule:

January 14th, 2012 - Ballroom Dinner show “The Contours” featuring Slyvester Potts February 19, 2012 - Ballroom Dinner Show featuring “The Vandells” February 25, 2012 - Ballroom Dinner Show featuring “The Hubcaps”

2012 Red Rose Doo Wop Weekend Volume VI: March 23, 2011 - Barbara Harris and the Toys, Jimmy Gallagher, and The Mystics

The Mystics: A Rock group that reached the top 20 national charts with their hit “Hushabye” in the 1950s. They are also known for “White Cliffs of Dover” and “Don’t Take the Stars”. Performing are original lead singer and second tenor.

The Shades of Blue: Their biggest hit “Oh How Happy” reached #12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and Top 10 in Canada. They were known as “Motown’s Blue-eyed Soul Group” and became popular in the 1960s.

The Legendary Teenagers: Rock musics first all-teenage act gained success in the 1950s with “Why Do Fools Fall in Love”. They became internationally known and inducted in the Rock N’ Roll Hall of Fame in 1993 followed by a star the following year on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame. Performing are two of the original teenagers.

Diamond “Dave” Somerville: Original lead voice of the Diamonds, Dave became an influence to Rock and Roll during the late 1950s to early 1960s. He has 16 Billboard hits including “Little Darlin” and “The Stroll”.

The Passions: Pop music group popular throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Gained popularity with hits such as “Just to Be with You”, “I Only Want You”, and “Made for Lovers”. The Marcels: Formed in the late 1950s and popular throughout the 1960s, this Doo Wop group was known for turning classical Pop songs into Rock and Roll. Their “Blue Moon” record was awarded a gold disc and is featured in “The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Top 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll”.

The Reflections: Known as the “Deacon’s of Doo Wop” have been performing since the mid-1950s. Their hit “( Just Like) Romeo and Juliet” reached #5 on pop charts and sales peaked at over four million. That’s not all! There are new and exciting shows every weekend at the Red Rose. For dinner show reservations, more shows, or information please visit www.redroseinnandsuites.com

March 24. 2011 - The Legendary Teenagers, Jimmy Gallagher, and the Mystics March 24, 2011 - Afternoon poolside party and car show with Doo Wop Boot Camp March 25, 2011 - Breakfast with the Stars

2012 PBS Doo Wop Memories Concert Series: April 14, 2012 - The Passions May 5th, 2012 - The Marcels June 23, 2012 - The Mystics September 22, 2012 - The Shades of Blue September 29, 2012 - The Mystics October 20, 2012- American Pops 60’s dinner show November 17, 2012- Diamond “Dave” Somerville December 8th - The Reflections December 15th - Mystical Doo Wop Christmas Show featuring “The Mystics”

FOCUS Magazine brandon august 2011

entertainment » dining profile photo by tony cartagena

photo by tony cartagena

Julio’s Latin Grille Gourmet Latin Food with Huge Variety written By: John Ross

ocal chef Julio Pagan and co-owner Jonny Barlas have taken their restaurateur partnership to a new level by opening a gourmet Latin food eatery square in the middle of Brandon on Highway 60, where Peck’s used to be. In their first month of business, the partners are very happy with the growing number of repeat customers. “We’ve done all of our advertising through word of mouth. It’s been busy,” Chef Julio said. “The second week was bangin’. Third week was even bang-er. We’ve got good energy… lots of customers,” he said. “For being a new restaurant and not having any advertising, we’ve had a lot of fun.” The food selection at Julio’s is simple, yet what people like is that there are enough possible distinct entrée combinations to keep them coming back to try new ones. The key to the variety is in the high level of customization, even down to the medium of the entrée itself, as explained below. “The model of how we do it at Julio’s is your way,” Julio said. “However you want it,

august 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

that’s how we do it.” There are three steps to ordering your meal at Julio’s. First, choose a protein from the menu board- for chicken alone there are three different recipes including the popular Pollo Asada: fresh chicken marinated in Chef Julio’s signature rub and then slowly flame-roasted and handshredded; Lechon Asado (pork braised for hours); Bistec Encebollado (braised steak); the Camaron Fricase, shrimp sautéed in Julio’s signature Sofrito; and vegetarians love the Vegetariano.

will build your meal- and it’s all included in the price of the entrees (priced from $6.45 $8.45).

the particular quality of the ingredientsno processed meats, fresh vegetables, and healthy seasonings.

We at FOCUS tried a few different things that Julio was proud to serve. The Cocorico Chicken Plato came in a large hexagonshaped bowl, which is designed with the assumption that customers will quite likely be taking home a portion of their meal after they have eaten all they can. The chicken was incredibly soft and moist. All of the ingredients in the bowl had a light, healthy feel and were full of flavor. Julio told us a story of how a man with sensitive health issues is pleased to find he can visit Julio’s for lunch several times a week because of

Food served Burrito Style or as the Stuffed Cuban include plantain chips with mojo sauce.

Next, you choose your medium, or “Style,” in which you want the entrée served. Want your meal rolled into a giant burrito? How about the ingredients hot pressed inside of a might-be-more-than-foot-long Stuffed Cuban instead, or rather have everything displayed in a large bowl, like a salad? Finally, choose all of the ingredients you want from the toppings bar. Select from a huge grid of vegetables, cheeses, salsas, and more from which the servers at Julio’s

photo by tony cartagena

information (813) 661-4329 Open every day from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. 1202 W. Brandon Blvd Brandon, FL 33511

brandon

dining & entertainment » event calendar

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

Thursday, August 4 Estrada Strategies Business Owner Briefing Make Your Business Work Best For You: Turn Your Time and Investment into Profit 11:30a.m. - 1:30a.m. Business owners want to have a business that they can depend on. They want to have a business that provides income and opportunity for them and their families. They don’t want a business that makes them work 60, 70, or even more hours a work just to keep things running. Osprey Observer Small Business Center For more information: Contact the Brandon Chamber of Commerce 813.689.1221 Westfield Brandon’s Westfield Family program presents: “I Am Special for the month of August” 4-5p.m. Sponsored by Verizon FiOS and featuring Westfield Family Fun Days designed to focus on confidence and self-esteem. Story time with “I‘m Gonna Like Me: Letting Off a Little Self-Esteem,” written by Jamie Lee Curtis and Laura Cornell, and “Bad Case of Stripes,” written by David Shannon. Kids will enjoy a healthy snack and create your own hand held mirror. Westfield Brandon, 459 Brandon Town Center Mall, Brandon

Saturday, August 6 Family Time 11 -11:30a.m. Brandon Regional Library Make reading time family time. Stories, action rhymes, songs and interactive activities make up this fun 30-minute program that celebrates a love of reading for children of all ages. 619 Vonderburg Drive Room 1 For more information: 813-273-3652

Monday, August 8 Story Time Brandon Regional Library Stories, action rhymes, songs and interactive activities make up this engaging 30-minute

program that highlights early literacy skills, and encourages reading readiness and social interaction. 619 Vonderburg Drive Room 1 For more information: 813-273-3652

Tuesday, August 9 Business After Hours: Bivins and Hemenway, P.A. 5:30 -7:30p.m. 136 Brandon Town Center Dr. For More information: (813) 643-4900

Friday, August 12 12th Annual Casino Night 6:30 – 11p.m. Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association 619 Vonderburg, Dr. Ste. B Proceeds during this event assist and benefit the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program and other Alumni Community enrichment programs. Tickets: $30 Individual or $20 Texas Hold’em Buy In For more information: Crystal Colegrove 813.689.1221 ext 8824 or ccolegrove@ brandonchamber.com

Story time books are “It’s Me!” by Eric Drachman and Isabelle Decenciere, and “I Like Me!” by Nancy L. Carlson. Kids also will decorate their own picture frame, and enjoy a healthy snack. Westfield Brandon, 459 Brandon Town Center Mall, Brandon

Recommended for ages 12 - adults. Admission: $30 Members; $40 Nonmembers. 619 Vonderburg Drive Room 1 For more information: 813-273-3652

Tuesday, August 16 Moon Law Group Presents: Boss Bartender Competition featuring Mark Moon, Esq. and Alexis Logan, Esq. Mixing up your favorite libations while helping support the many good works of the Brandon Foundation 100% of the proceeds from Specialty Drinks will go toward the The Brandon Foundation’s Annual Summer Charm Wine & Food Gala. Time: 5:30 – 8p.m. The Rack-Brandon, 1025 W. Brandon BLVD

Tuesday, August 23 First Day of School for Hillsborough County Students

Thursday, August 18 Westfield Brandon’s Westfield Family program presents: “I Am Special for the month of August” 4-5p.m.

Monday, August 15 Workshop - Light and Shadow: The Art of Pencil Drawing 10a.m. to 12p.m. Brandon Regional Library Going beyond the odd doodle, this course covers the fundamentals of drawing as well as takes the more advanced artist to a higher level. Focusing on light and shadows, the course will help you bring more depth and realism to your finished drawings. In the course, you will learn how to study and “break down” a subject into easy to draw pieces. He will teach you how to create drama in a drawing as well as how to choose the right reference for your subject. He will share with you, my tricks of the trade and show you how fun and exciting pencil drawing can be. Artists are encouraged to bring examples of their drawing for critique. This will help determine your current skill level and help you get the most from the class. New artists need bring nothing more than pencils, paper and enthusiasm.

FOCUS Magazine brandon august 2011

Serving Brandon area families since 1960. A long tradition of caring compassionate service.

STOWERS funeral home 401 West Brandon Blvd. Brandon, Fl 33511 â&#x20AC;˘ 813-689-1211

Herb S. Popple Funeral Director, General Manager

Today, we continue our long and proud history of community service as members of the Dignity Memorial national network of funeral, cremation and cemetery service providers. Stowers Funeral Home, as a Dignity provider, specialize in offering exclusive Added Value BeneďŹ ts designed to provide a higher level of funeral care before, during, and after the service, all backed by a 100% Service Guarantee.