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TABLE OF CONTENTS 07 08
45 07
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LOCAL
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focusbrandon.com
42
Queen & Court
The Chamber’s Annual Dinner and the 25th annual dinner of the Rotary Club of Brandon ’86 were civic highlights this month. Enjoy also the story of Newsome High School freshman Maddie Hess, our very own Olympic hopeful swimmer who qualified in December for this summer’s US Olympic Team Trials.
14 FEATURE
Volume 5 Issue 7 • March 2012
MEET THE 2012 FL STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
Special Festival Section We’re excited this month to present what’s new for the Strawberry Festival: Ron Gainey, the new president and the new Evelyn and Bautista Madonia, Sr. Agriculture Building. Also new is a queen with a pageant first: two grandmothers who also wore the crown. February 2012 focusplantcity.com
42 SPOTLIGHT
Meet six locals who delighted guests at the annual Community Roundtable dinner when they shared their deeply-rooted Brandon heritage and perspectives on history. Among them is a common theme - these folks are givers.
44 BUSINESS PROFILE
The Ferman Automotive Group dealerships are Central Florida mainstays. Discover Ferman Acura and Mazda in this month’s business profile and plan a test drive of the latest models.
45 DINING PROFILE
Raja’s Mexican Grill is the place to go for great Mexican specialties prepared Southern California style. For tasty food and especially affordable prices in a fun and friendly atmosphere, visit soon.
11 - CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 46 - 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.
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MARCH 2012 thefocusmagazine.com
ON THE COVER
Community and Legacy Six Share Their Stories
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 MARCH 2012
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LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER One of the neatest things about publishing a community newspaper is to be continually amazed by the creativity and drive in local residents to continue a legacy or accomplish a mission.
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The Community Roundtable hosted a wonderful evening this month when six locals with deeprooted heritage in the Brandon community shared a little of that history onstage among friends. We had a great time gathering on the big porch of the original Brandon family homestead, now known as Stowers Funeral Home, to snap some photos and learn a little more history. From those conversations comes this month’s Spotlight interview and we believe it’s one you will enjoy reading. One thing is for sure - these folks were doers and givers. Talk about a humbling and joyful experience - no wonder we love our work. We hope also that you will enjoy our Strawberry Festival insert and plan to enjoy a berrysweet experience with your family and friends, March 1-11 in Plant City. Fun in the sun with top-name entertainment, rides in every shape and size and plenty of local flavor - it may not get any better than this. Once again, we feel honored to share life with you and to tell the stories that matter in this moment. Thanks for reading and supporting those you meet among our pages. Mike and DeDe Floyd
Mike Floyd - Publisher mike@floydpublications.com
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Floyd Publications, Inc. 702 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563
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Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990
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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.
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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.
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FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants and many local venues.
Staff Writers Cheryl Johnston Brian West | Joe Bowles |Derek Maul | Dan Conrod Heather Davis | Megan Braglin | Amanda Molinaro
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.
Contributors Al Ruechel | Gil Gott Bruce Rodwell | Jo-An Lusk | Nate Davis
Photographers Aldo Trevino Lori Blaser | Jennifer Darnell
LOCAL » FOCUS
Emcee Bob Geiger, Florida Publishing Group/The Tampa Tribune Advertising Sales Vice President and Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Tammy Bracewell
ANNUAL GREATER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BRANDON DINNER T WRITTEN BY: JANICE BUCHHOLZ
he Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual dinner Feb. 3 at The Regent to honor several local business leaders. It was a party with a purpose.
Roughly 300 guests attended the event sponsored by the Brandon News & Tribune and The Tampa Tribune. Melissa Snively, the immediate past chair of the Chamber, passed the title to Bob Bivens,
who will serve as the 2012 chair.
The many recognitions were a highlight of the event. Moore Hallmark, of the United States Chamber of Commerce, recognized the Greater Brandon Chamber for having attained a five-star rating for the second time. He noted that of the nearly 7,000 chambers only 234 have received the five-star rating. Becky Jordan, the 2010 Key Citizen Award Recipient, presented the 2011 award to
Tammy Holmberg. She and her husband Paul co-own the Chick-Fil-A on Causeway Boulevard. The 2011 Ambassador of the Year is Charles Shenning. Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Earl J. Lennard awarded the 2011 Leadership Award to Attorney General Pam Bondi, who accepted the recognition through a videotaped message because she was unable to attend. Bivens spoke briefly about his future plans for the Chamber. He acknowledged that the unstable financial environment of past several years had been a challenge for the Chamber as well as chamber members. “You are not alone,” Bivens said addressing local business owners who are doing more with less.
Bivens realizes that businesses struggle between paying their chamber dues or rent. Acknowledging that some business leaders are fighting to stay afloat, Bivens applauded their resiliency and true sense of community. Bivens said he hopes “to see more businesses reach out to one another because they are stronger together than they are separately.” While focusing on businesses that are Chamber members, Bivens also said he has plans to reach out to non-chamber members and minority-owned businesses to show them the benefits of membership. “We’re all in this together,” Bivens said of being business owners. “Together the business community will thrive and the Chamber will thrive.”
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FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON MARCH 2012
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LOCAL » FOCUS
MADDIE HESS SWIMMER SETS SIGHTS ON THE OLYMPICS STORY BY: DIANA BRINK
A
n Olympic hopeful is training right here in Brandon. Maddie Hess, a freshman at Newsome High School, qualified in December for the US Olympic Team Trials. She swam the 200-m backstroke at a time of 2:17:94, earning the qualification by just .06 seconds. Hess trains at Brandon Sports & Aquatic Center (BSAC) on the Blue Wave Swim team under the watchful eye of Coach Justin Correia. “Maddie is a humble girl who strives to do her best,” Correis shared. “I see good things for her because a girl with her drive doesn’t come along very often.” According to Correia, she rarely misses practice. Hess has been on the Blue Wave Swim Team
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for the past six years. Before swimming with Blue Wave, she swam at Riverhills Country Club. “I love the friendships and bonding that comes from swimming,” Hess shared. “I can’t imagine life any other way.” Hess practices Monday thru Friday at BSAC in preparation for the US Olympic Time Trials, which will take place June 25-July 2 in Omaha, Nebraska. Hess will be there for the entire week, and she looks forward to it. Her competition will begin Saturday, June 30 with a heat and will be followed by the semifinal round that afternoon. If she qualifies, she will swim in the final on Sunday, July 1. The Brandon community wishes you much success, Maddie Hess. Your dedication and passion for your sport is an encouragement to all.
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FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
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Sun. Mar. 4 3:30 Sun. Mar. 4 7:30
Jake Owen $15 & $20 Hank Williams, Jr. “Taking Back the Country Tour” $50
Mon. Mar. 5 3:30 Mon. Mar. 5 7:30
Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals
Tues. Mar. 6 3:30 Tues. Mar. 6 7:30
Brenda Lee Vince Gill
$15 & $20 $35
Wed. Mar. 7 3:30 Wed. Mar. 7 7:30
Lee Greenwood / Louise Mandrell The Band Perry
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Thu. Mar. 8 10:30 Thu. Mar. 8 3:30 Thu. Mar. 8 7:30
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Cornell Gunter’s Coasters, Bobby Hendrick’s Drifters, The Platters $15 & $20 TobyMac $20 & $25
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LEE GREENWOOD
SENIOR CITIZEN’S DAYS
Kid’s Day
AMERICAN HEROES DAY
All Day Free Admission for Kids through High School
All Active, Reserve, Retired Military, Military Veterans, Law Enforcement, First Responders (EMS & Fire Fighters) admitted Free all day with a valid ID
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Direct Auto Insurance Free Grandstand Seating 3:30 & 7:30 pm are on a first come, first seated basis.
FESTIVAL FAVORITES • Dennis Lee • Jay Taylor Band • The Walker Brothers Bluegrass & Acoustic Music Show • The Gothard Sisters • Runa Pacha • Robinson’s Racing Pigs • Rock-It The Robot NEW: • World Champion Lumberjills • Ron Diamond • Lloyd Mabrey • Makenzie Raye • Karaoke Contest • Kandu Magic Show • Sea Lion Splash Show
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FREE CONCERTS Thurs, Mar 1st Jimmy Sturr Orchestra Thurs, Mar 8th Ronnie McDowell Concerts 10:30am
Sat. Mar. 3
LOUISE MANDRELL
Wed. Mar. 7th
THE OAK RIDGE BOYS
FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON MARCH 2012
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LOCAL » FOCUS
ROTARY CLUB OF BRANDON ‘86 CELEBRATES 25TH ANNIVERSARY 25TH ANNIVERSARY DINNER CELEBRATES ROTARY
Speaker, Past District Governor Russ Miller, addressing the group with a “Conversation with Paul Harris”, founder of Rotary.
CLUB’S FOUNDING STORY BY: DALE BLISS
T
wenty-five years ago 25 caring business professionals established The Rotary Club of Brandon ’86 in order to offer support to their community. From February 24, 1987 to February 24, 2012, a quarter of a century of care, giving and love was celebrated February 24 at the Regent. Among the guests were charter members Randy Kizer and Jeff Miltner, both of whom were past presidents and still active members of the club. Russ Miller, former district Rotary governor in 2008-2009, was guest speaker for the evening. Miller and his wife Susan have worn many hats and served the community in many ways. In 1998 he joined friends and members of the Wesley Chapel area and started the Chamber of Commerce for that community. In 2004 he received the Mayors Award for outstanding service to the community. “I have been involved with Rotary since I was 16 years old,” said Miltner, adding, “I learned at an early age about giving back to one’s community.” Jeni Chatraw, current President of Rotary Club of Brandon ‘86, reflected, “I am proud
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to be a member of a club so dedicated to making our community a better place through community service, fundraising and helping others in need.” The Rotary hopes to add a water feature to the All Person’s Playground this year. The groundbreaking is planned for May or June of this year. This special playground welcomes all children to have a place to play, including those in wheelchairs.
Past Presidents and District Governor- Bob O’Neill (90-91), Alan Feldman (District Governor), Jeff Miltner (93-94), Randy Kizer (9596), Shirley Link (wife of late Charter Member and PP 89-90), Bob Devolld (00-01), Larry Westberry (07-08), Becky Jordan (09-10), Jeni Chatraw (11-12), and Reggie Osenton (10-11).
The Rotarians provide humanitarian services and encourage high ethical standards in its membership. They help to build goodwill and peace worldwide. According to Chatraw, “Approximately 1.2 million Rotarians belong to more than 31,000 Rotary clubs located in 167 countries.” Kizer reflected, “After 25 years, the Rotary Club of Brandon ’86 is very special to our community and to those who serve as its members.” For more information regarding Rotary Club of Brandon ’86, contact President Jeni Chatraw at 813-784-7285 or via e-mail www.Brandon86Rotary.com.
Charter members, Jeff Miltner and Randy Kizer, along with club mascot “Harry” (come to a meeting to find out the story behind Harry!).
BRANDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE » FOCUS
BRANDON CHAMBER BUSINESS BRIEFING 2012 ANNUAL DINNER On February 3rd The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce held their Annual Dinner at “The Regent”, where the new Board members and officers were installed. Taking over as Chairman of the Board is Robert Bivins; Chair-Elect, Darren Denington; Immediate Past Chair, Melissa Snively; Secretary/Treasurer, Jeff Campbell; Board Representative on the Executive Committee, Melissa Poage; and Consulting Attorney, Randy Wolfe. All additional Board members include; Rufus Ashby, Liz Brewer, Tina Brock-Fallen, State Representative Rich Glorioso, District 62, Amy Marsh, Michael Mathews, Debbie Meegan, Jennifer Murphy, Rick Rios and Rich Woytowich. Congratulations to Tammy Holmberg winning the Key Citizen Award, Pam Bondi for the Community Leadership Award and Jeff Campbell for the Chairman’s Award. Also special thanks to Moore Hallmark of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for presenting the 5-star Accreditation Award to the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce. 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, 8:30am to 4:00pm, at the Chamber. For more information or to schedule an appointment please call 813-689-1221. Biz Ed 101 – Wednesday, March 6th, 11:00am to 1:00pm, at the Chamber, “Tactics for Hiring the Right People”, cost is $18 per person, and includes lunch. Registrations can be made online at www. brandonchamber.com, or contact Laura Cook at 813-689-1221, ext. 8846. In this seminar attendees can expect to cover: Introduction to an effective hiring process, the importance of job descriptions, behavioral based interviewing skills, how to build a skill specific interview guide and recruiting sources. The Biz Ed series is sponsored by Sunshine State Federal Savings & Loan Assn. FREE Working Smarter Workshop led by counselors of the Hillsborough County Small Business Information Center. The “It’s Okay to be the Boss” seminar will be held on Tuesday, March 13th, 9:30am – 12:00pm, at the Chamber. Business owners and managers have more demands, more tasks and responsibilities and more people to manage than ever. This workshop will teach attendees practical ways to manage and lead. For more information or to register please contact Laura Cook at lcook@brandonchamber.com or 813-689-1221, ext. 8846. MARCH NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES Business After Hours – Tuesday, March 13th, 5:30pm, hosted by G. Fried Flooring America, 9329 Adamo Dr., Tampa. Networking @ Noon – Tuesday, March 20th, 12:00 Noon, hosted by CF Web Professionals, LLC and American Dream Home Mortgage, 1219 Millenium Pkwy., Brandon.
Coffee Club – Tuesday, March 27th, 8:00am, hosted by Sunshine State Federal Savings & Loan Assn., 420 W. Brandon Blvd., Brandon. 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 Fire Grill & Bar, 136 Brandon Town Center Dr., Brandon, Thursday, March 1st, 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, March 14th, 11:45am, at Buca di Beppo, 11105 Causeway Blvd., Brandon. For more information on YP Brandon or their events please contact Victoria Singletary at vsingletary@brandonchamber.com, or 813-6891221, ext. 8836 or Crystal Colegrove at ccolegrove@ brandonchamber.com or 813-689-1221, ext. 8824, or visit www.ypbrandon.com. HEALTH FAIR Annual Health Fair to be held on Saturday, March 3rd, 9:00am to 1:00pm, at the Campo Family YMCA, 3414 Culbreath Rd., Valrico. This event will feature FREE health screenings for attendees, admission to the event is free of charge. Exhibitor space available, $125 for Brandon Chamber Members, $225 for potential members. Registration and more information can be found at www. brandonchamber.com or by contacting Laura Cook or Crystal Colegrove at 813-689-1221.
Advertise with us. Call our office at 813.707.8783
LEADERSHIP BRANDON ALUMNI The Leadership Brandon Alumni to host a social on Friday, March 16th, 5:30pm – 7:00pm, at Hooters, 10023 E. Adamo Dr., Tampa. Light hors d’oeuvres, drink specials and socializing with fellow Alumni members as well as new Class of 2012 members. This is a Leadership Brandon Alumni event, all Leadership Brandon graduates and a guest are encouraged to attend. RSVP is requested, please contact Crystal Colegrove at ccolegrove@ brandonchamber.com for more information. WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Agape Chic Consignment Boutique, Inc.; Century 21 Acclaim Realty Company/Paul Hogg; Clear Channel; Eastshore Dental Care; Insphere Insurance Solutions; Kauffman Tire; Keystone Counseling; Labor Ready; Moffitt Cancer Center; Northwestern Mutual Financial Network/David Preast; Rapid Refill; Red’s Team Sports; Scroll ‘n Roll Ads; Send Out Cards/Dr. Thornton; Simpson Air; Smoothie King; Stat MedCare Solutions, LLC; Tampa Bay ENT and The Floor Source.
MAGAZINE
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SouthFloridaBaptist.com FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON MARCH 2012
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AGRICULTURAL CENTER A VERSATILE ADDITION TO STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GROUNDS BY DAVE NICHOLSON
R
ain, cold or heat won’t be a major concern this year for such Florida Strawberry Festival favorites as the steer show and lamb costume contest.
Thanks to the new Evelyn & Batista Madonia Sr. Agriculture Show Center, festival livestock shows have a permanent home, complete with bleacher style seating, heating and air conditioning. “We won’t have to worry about the weather,” festival General Manager Paul Davis said. The center won’t be hard for festival guests to find. At 33,000 square feet, the Madonia center is by far the largest building on the festival grounds – nearly twice the size of the TECO Expo Hall. The center, named for the well-known owners of the Red Rose Inn and Suites and a large farming operation, was constructed at a total cost of about $3.6 million. The building is a centerpiece of the festival and will be “center stage,” when the gates open March 1, Davis said. The building sits on nearly 4 acres on Oak Avenue in the northwest corner of the festival grounds, near the Tomlin Middle School gymnasium. The center replaces rented livestock tents. The building has gotten rave reviews since it was completed early this year. It has already housed such festival events as the Strawberry Ball, festival queen’s pageant and fashion show. For the festival, it will be converted to a livestock area with gates and fencing anchored in the concrete and indoor-outdoor carpeting. Spectators shouldn’t have trouble finding a place to sit during livestock shows, sales and contests. The bleachers can seat 1,700 to 1,800, far beyond the capacity at the tents that used to house the events.
The center will only be open during festival livestock events; at other times it won’t be accessible to the general public. Competitors in the livestock shows will have access for practices and the like. The festival is all about agriculture and a permanent home for livestock shows has been in the works for many years. Davis said festival President Ron Gainey deserves credit for his extensive work on developing a versatile design for the center. City Commissioner Mike Sparkman, who previously served as president, said Gainey played a key role in shaping the center, including making trips to the Georgia National Fair in Perry to view a similar building. “Ron Gainey poured a lot of time and effort into making this a reality,” Sparkman said. Gainey gave credit to other members of his committee. “It wasn’t just Ron Gainey, it was everyone working together to make this all happen,” he said. The Madonia center is the first phase of a plan to improve festival facilities for livestock events, Gainey added. He hopes the festival can complete the vision by adding two pavilions to house livestock adjacent to the center in time for the 2013 celebration of King Strawberry. Gainey said city commissioner and Festival Director Rick Lott, with the Visions and Innovations committee, is heading up the efforts to sell naming rights to the pavilions to help pay for construction costs. He added that the relatively new committee is exploring other ways to improve the festival in years to come.
Paul Davis shows off the new Eveyln & Batista Madonia Agricultural Show Center
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“We are looking ahead not just to the next festival. We are looking 10 to 20 years down the road,” he said.
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FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON MARCH 2012
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Queen & MEET THE 2012 FL STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
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Each year since 1930, the City of Plant City and the Florida Strawberry Festival kick off the season with the selection of a new Queen and Court. And each year, a lot of work goes on behind the scenes with the Plant City Lions Club and the Lions Auxiliary to present a pageant that to make everyone proud and to deliver five young ladies who can represent the Festival and our city. And each year, we do just that. Still, we find ourselves asking, “How can we get another five girls as good as those we had the year prior?” Thankfully, year in and year out, the young ladies in our area step up to the challenge. This year is no different as the 2012 Queen and Court were named just a few weeks ago. I had a moment to speak with First Maid- Calli Jo Parker and Court Members Olivia Higgins, Erica Kelley and Chelsea Talavera.
& Court
INTERVIEW BY BRIAN WEST | PHOTOS BY ANTHONY SASSANO
FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON MARCH 2012
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Queen
2012 FL STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL The past several years have seen several milestones in the Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Scholarship Pageant. Lauren and Erica Der became the first sisters to wear the crown. Then the feat was repeated last year as Victoria Watkins, younger sister to Ashlee, became the second pair of sisters to wear the crown. This year, Chelsea Bowden becomes the first Queen to have grandmothers who wore the crown. That’s right, grandmothers. Both of Bowden’s grandmothers, Barbara Alley Bowden – 1948 and Ruby Jean Barker Redman – 1953 were Strawberry Queens. And as you might imagine, they’re both pretty excited for their granddaughter. Chelsea and I had a chance to speak a couple of weeks ago, immediately following her first official appearance as the 2012 Queen at lunch with the Plant City Lions Club – sponsors of the pageant.
FOCUS: TELL ME A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR FAMILY.
Bowden: I am one of three children. Both of my parents are educators. I come from a large family. I have 9 cousins on one side and 2 on the other. I’m really family-oriented. We spend Sundays together after church, eating dinner. We’re together for holidays and birthdays. We have a lake house where we like to spend time. When we are there, there’s usually about 20 of us, so it’s a pretty packed house and a lot of fun. Family is what’s most important to me.
FOCUS: WHAT DOES YOUR FAMILY THINK ABOUT ALL THIS?
Bowden: My family is still overwhelmed and still just taking it all in. They’re all still kind of in shock. I’m just so blessed to have this opportunity. Both of my grandmothers were Strawberry Queens, and they are so excited. My grandmother’s friends call them all day. They come over to my house and talk about how their friends are coming over and writing them. It’s really exciting.
FOCUS: PRIOR TO THIS YEAR, WHAT DID THE ROLE OF STRAWBERRY QUEEN MEAN TO YOU?
Bowden: I think it was someone that was the face of the Festival and the agriculture industry. The Strawberry Queen is also a role model to the young girls who look up to her. I know I always looked up to the role. The Queen is also someone that can get along with anyone. It was always something really special to me.
FOCUS: WHAT WAS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT FROM THE PAGEANT?
Bowden: The crowning moment was probably my most memorable. I’d have to say that was the number one moment for me. The interview was great. I felt like the judges really liked me. They gave
Chelsea Bowden
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me such great compliments that I was really kind of taken back. There were just so many FOCUS: IT’S ONLY BEEN A COUPLE OF DAYS SINCE YOU WERE CROWNED QUEEN, BUT I KNOW great moments. Meeting all the girls, even the ones that didn’t make it to the top five, YOU’VE ALREADY BEEN BUSY. they were all just so nice. I realize that I’m fortunate to have this opportunity. Bowden: Yes. We’ve already ordered our evening gowns and cocktail dresses. They’re beautiful. We’ve gotten our outfits together; clothes and shoes. We’ve also been to another luncheon. FOCUS: WHAT DID IT TAKE FOR YOU TO PREPARE FOR THE PAGEANT? Bowden: Oh my goodness. It took so much. I’m sure you probably know that a lot of the girls get coaches now. I had a coach, mostly for the interview portion because I was FOCUS: WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO FOR FUN? so nervous about it. And getting the hair and makeup, and the clothes - it was a lot of Bowden: I really enjoy going to the movies or renting from Red Box. I like to be with preparation. And I couldn’t have done any of it without the support of my parents. my family of friends on a Friday or Saturday night. I’m an outdoorsy person, which a lot
FOCUS: WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO MOST?
Bowden: Getting to know all of the girls has been so much fun. And I’m really looking forward to getting to the Festival and meeting all the entertainers. That’s just going to be so much fun, and each of us have someone that we’re really excited about. I’m also looking forward to spending time at the Palace, which is where we’ll stay during the day, and it’s amazing. We went last night to check it out and we all picked our seats. It’s amazing.
FOCUS: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE INTERACTIONS YOU HAD WITH THE FIRST MAID AND COURT?
Bowden: I think we’re going to get along great. We all have different personalities but they blend really well. We’re just all so excited about everything that’s ahead of us.
of people don’t know. I have 2 dogs and I really love going to Medard Park with them. I’m really athletic and love anything outside. I also love shopping, especially bargain shopping.
FOCUS: TELL ME SOMETHING ABOUT YOU THAT NOT EVERYONE KNOWS.
Bowden: I danced for about 8 years, competitively, before I became a volleyball player. I used to do tap, jazz, lyrical, ballet, hip hop. Not many people know that because I stopped competing when I got to the eighth grade because there isn’t much you can do with dance in high school, except cheering, and I’d never really done any of the jumps and flips. We have a color guard, but it’s not the same thing, so I had to branch out a little to something else.
FOCUS: WHAT DO YOU EXPECT TO GAIN FROM BEING QUEEN?
Bowden: I think I’ll gain more knowledge about Plant City’s history. I already know a lot, but there are a lot of things I don’t know. I also expect to gain better speaking skills, FOCUS: YOU’RE A SENIOR THIS YEAR. WHAT DO YOU INTEND TO DO AFTER YOU GRADUATE? Bowden: Yes, I’m a senior this year at Durant High School. I’m planning to go to HCC because a lot of what I have to do is talk with others. I’m sure I’ll be meeting a lot of people; a lot of influential people, and hopefully they’ll make an impact on me and each and study Nursing. I would like to go to the University of Florida for my second two one of the court members. years, but I’ll have to wait and see how the first couple of years go.
FOCUS: WHERE DID YOU GET YOUR INTEREST IN NURSING?
Bowden: I really like Science, Biology and Chemistry. I’ve always had great teachers at Durant. I want to do something in the mission field overseas. I want to make an impact on children. That’s my biggest goal.
FOCUS: I ALSO UNDERSTAND YOU’RE INVOLVED IN THE DURANT HIGH SCHOOL LEON CLUB. HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED WITH THE LEOS?
Bowden: I got involved through Student Government. I’m a member and Mrs. Singletary sponsors Student Government and the Leo Club. So from Student Government, a lot of students will get involved in the Leo Club. Leo Club is the number one community service club to be involved in at Durant. Everyone is in it. We have a blast. We’ve volunteered at Pig Jam and the United Food Bank. And I have so many friends in it and that just makes it a lot of fun. Mrs. Singletary is just an amazing woman. I talk to her all the time. I spoke with her all the time leading up to the pageant and she was someone who gave me great advice. I really look up to her.
FOCUS: IS THERE ANYTHING YOU LIKE TO SAY TO CLOSE THE INTERVIEW?
Bowden: God has blessed me with such a great opportunity and I really want to thank Him and my family and friends. I’m just really looking forward to the year and getting to know the girls better. Chelsea Bowden is going to make a great Queen for the Florida Strawberry Festival. I have no doubts she will do an excellent job in representing the Festival and Plant City well. At 5’11”, Chelsea is the tallest Queen we’ve had since Beckie Brown (5’11¾”) in 1987. Interestingly, Brown and her mother Ruth, the first mother daughter Queens, were the emcees for this year’s pageant. If you find yourself out and about and happen upon Chelsea, introduce yourself. You’ll be glad you did. She’s a very sweet young lady and will make us all proud to have her as this year’s Queen. Congratulations, Chelsea! Enjoy your year and make the most of every opportunity.
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Court 2012 FL STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
FOCUS: CALLI JO AND ERICA, THIS WAS YOUR SECOND YEAR COMPETING, CORRECT? Parker: Yes. It was definitely easier than my first year competing, because I knew what to expect and what was coming. This year I just kinda had it in my mind that God has a plan, and whatever it is, I’m just going to let Him use me. When He placed me in the position I’m in now, it just felt so comfortable. You get placed where you know it’s right and you just know that it’s going to work out perfectly. So that was the state of mind I held throughout the entire pageant. It definitely helped keep me calm and collected.
First Maid
Calli Jo Parker
Kelley: I made the top ten last year but I had no idea what to expect. I think I messed up on the on-stage question last year, so that’s what I worked on most this year. I didn’t take it too seriously. My dad and my brother were at all of my dress fittings. They could probably do the pageant with me and do just as well. It even got to the point where my dad, whose the most country guy you could ever meet, was giving me pointers when I practiced my walk.
FOCUS: IT’S ONLY BEEN A FEW DAYS, BUT WHAT’S BEEN MOST MEMORABLE FOR YOU? Parker: That’s difficult. The whole night was just amazing. But I think when I was answering the impromptu question was probably the most memorable for me. I’ve told everyone, it’s so crazy how fast your brain moves when you’re on stage like that, but I did not realize how funny my answer was until I saw the judge’s faces. They were all just laughing. It was a very memorable moment for me. Higgins: It’s kind of funny. Just as Amber Carapezza was coming off the stage from delivering her commercial, there was fire in the building. We heard the commotion, but didn’t know what was going on. Then she came into the dressing room and told us what happened. That was pretty memorable. And we could hear Mr. Davis say, “We just want everyone to know that we rented these lights.” Kelley: When they called my name for the top five. I was the last one called, so I was a nervous wreck. It didn’t matter whether or not I was crowned Queen, just knowing that I made the Court meant everything. I was so happy. Talavera: The day after the pageant, we got to meet the Queen and Court from last year. I’ve never really talked with them, so it was really nice to see how close they are now after a year together. They’re all very close. So I’m really looking forward to having four new best friends.
FOCUS: WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO MOST THIS YEAR? Parker: Honestly, visiting with all of the Directors’ wives. There are so many people that work the festival, and the Red Coats get a lot of recognition, but their wives and the women who work behind the scenes do just as much work as everyone else. I’m really excited to get to know them and thank them for everything they do.
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Olivia Higgins
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Higgins: Obviously the entertainers and the food, but one of the things I’m really looking forward to is getting to know the other girls. After seeing last year’s Queen and Court, and seeing how close they are and the relationships they have and knowing they’re relationships that will last a lifetime, that’s what I’m really looking forward to. Kelley: I’m really looking forward to meeting everyone. Today with the Lions Club was just a glimpse of what the year will be like. Everyone is so sweet and nice.
Talavera: I’m really looking forward to meeting the entertainers and lots of great food.
FOCUS: TELL ME ABOUT YOUR CAREER PLANS. Parker: I’m currently a freshman at HCC studying Agriculture Communications. I told my mom the other day, when I’m standing on the stage with a microphone, I just feel like I was meant to do that. That’s what I was born to do. Most of the girls were really anxious about that moment, but I couldn’t wait for that moment. I have no idea where I could do that [as a job] but to be somewhere speaking about agriculture, my faith, about anything in front of thousands of people - that is home to me. Hopefully Agriculture Communications will lead me to something like that. Kelley: I’m attending HCC. I’m studying Business Management and I want to open my own pageant gown store in Plant City. I want the dresses to be unique and custom designed. When you put on a dress, you have to feel beautiful on the inside. I want to share that with other girls. You can’t go to Prom or compete in a pageant and have a great time if you don’t feel beautiful and I want to help other girls have that experience. Higgins: I’ve been homeschooled since I was in Kindergarten. I’m a senior this year and started dual enrollment at HCC my junior year. The state pays for that, so I’ll graduate from high school this spring and then from HCC in December. Then I’ll go on to USF to finish my Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in English. I’d like to be able to teach at the college level. Talavera: I’m currently attending Plant City High School. After high school, I’m thinking about attending Southeastern College. It’s so pretty. I went to their Christmas musical and it was just so amazing. I just like that atmosphere and I’ve just had so many people say great things about it. So I’d like to go there, or maybe USF. I’d like to major in English and become a high school English teacher.
FOCUS: OLIVIA AND CHELSEA, WHERE DID YOU GET YOUR INTEREST IN TEACHING ENGLISH? Higgins: I enjoy English and I’m good at it. I like to write, and I want to be able to get married and have a family. I had a great teacher at HCC, Mrs. Galloway, and she inspired me to go for it.
Chelsea Talavera Talavera: Mrs. Jo Beth Newsome was my 9th grade teacher. She was just so amazing. I just knew that I had to be just like her.
FOCUS: CALLI JO, I KNOW YOU’RE A CHRISTIAN. WHAT WERE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE NUMBER OF CONTESTANTS SHARING THEIR BELIEF IN GOD? Parker: The support was overwhelming. The sisterhood backstage was wonderful. Most of the girls were believers, which made it so much better. Last year I didn’t get the same feeling. This year, everyone was in the pageant to serve God, and it just made everything so much more enjoyable. We all look for the same things out of life, and especially these five girls that made the court. We all have one heartbeat. And I think it’s something that has already brought us closer together, quicker than any court I’ve seen, personally.
FOCUS: IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO SAY? Parker: I really want to say thanks to my family. Kelley: I would really like to thank everyone that helped me. My coach, Crystal, was a blessing. She’s such a sweetheart. And I’m so thankful for the support I got from my family and friends. Higgins: I really want to say thanks to my family. Thanks so much to Lynn and Connie at Tip to Toe for being my sponsor, and everyone in the community that was giving me such good advice. Thanks so much for the opportunities we’ll have this year.
Erica Kelley
Talavera: I just want to say thanks to everyone in my family and my friends for all their support. These are 4 great young ladies. They’re all very grounded and come from good families in our community. They will do a great job in representing our city and the Florida Strawberry Festival in 2012. Congratulations to each of you. Enjoy every moment. FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON MARCH 2012
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Felton’s Meat & Grocery 617 North Maryland Ave. Plant City, FL • 813-752-1548 Monday - Saturday 7am-9pm Sunday 7am-8pm
www.feltonsmarket.com
a p V a N a l e l e h t y e O c n f e i T r e a p m x p E a Bay e m o C Our Tasting Room & Gift Shop is open daily until 6PM Sample all our wines for just $6. Due to popular demand, we have brought back our ice wine for a limited time. Host Your Next Special Moment at Keel & Curley Wedding Ceremonies & Receptions Showers, Parties, & Corporate Events
March 17, 2012 from 12 to 7pm. Free to the public
Friday Evening After Hours Wine Bar Happy Hour 6PM - 7PM Wine Tasting until 9PM Live Music 6:30PM - 10:30PM
813.752.9100 5202 W. Thonotosassa Rd., Plant City www.keelandcurleywinery.com
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The Premier Showplace for Talent in Florida Show Guests stay overnight at special rate!
FEBRUARY 17 JOHNNY ALSTON’S - MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE A dynamite crowd pleaser! Plus, Destiny performs before and after the show.
FEBRUARY 18 TROY “SATCHMO” ANDERSON - TRIBUTE TO LOUIS ARMSTRONG
Troy Anderson on trumpet as “Satchmo,” a tribute to Louis Armstrong. Plus, a 3 hour set from The Wonderful World Band with the same instrumentation as Armstrong's bands. Destiny opens and closes.
FEBRUARY 25 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND
MARCH 9 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND
FEBRUARY 25
MARCH 10 BEAUTIFUL BOBBY BLACKMON & THE B3 BLUES BAND
Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room.
THE FABULOUS HUBCAPS
Come and hear one of the nation’s most sought after oldies’ bands. Their music spans generations of some of the top hits of our time. The Las Vegas Sounds also perform in the Red Rose Ballroom. Dinner served in a supperclub atmosphere.
MARCH 2 BOBBY PALERMO
Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Destiny.
Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room.
Bobby Blackmon's career began in a small town not far from the Dallas, Texas area. His Texas blues influence is heard loud ‘n’ proud in his soulful guitar playing. He's worked with the likes of Barbara Lynn, Jimmy Reed, ZZ Hill, Johnny Taylor, Lavelle White and Lou Rawls. Destiny opens and closes in the Red Rose Dining Room.
MARCH 16
BRIAN ROMAN One of Canada’s finest entertainers! Roman performs the classics – spanning the Golden Era, ranging from Sinatra to Tom Jones. Destiny also performs.
MARCH 17 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND
FEBRUARY 24
Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room.
BRIAN ROMAN One of Canada’s finest entertainers! Roman performs the classics – spanning the Golden Era, ranging from Sinatra to Tom Jones. Destiny also performs.
MARCH 3 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Destiny.
GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE
W W W. R E D R O S E I N N A N D S U I T E S . C O M 24
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I-4 Exit 21 2011 N. Wheeler St. Plant City, FL 33563
Mrs. Evelyn Madonia -Owner The Toys and The Las Vegas Sounds. Saturday night performances include: The Mystics, Jimmy Gallagher, The Legendary Teenagers and The Las Vegas Sounds Band will perform in the Ballroom. Bob Ryman will perform in the Dining Room.
APRIL 13 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE
Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Destiny.
MARCH 30 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE MARCH 17 “THE FIDDLER” BOB RYMAN A ST. PATRICK’S DAY BALLROOM DINNER SHOW
Come celebrate the event! Ryman is a master of the violin and takes you through a magical journey of the classics to country favorites. The Las Vegas Sounds will also perform. Car show in the afternoon and deck party with a St. Patty’s tradition of green beer before the show. Pre-show at 7–Main-show at 8.
Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Destiny.
MARCH 31 BOB RYMAN
Bob Ryman is a master of the violin. Ryman plays favorites from Bluegrass to Broadway, from Country to Classics. Destiny before and after the show in the Red Rose Dining Room.
APRIL 14 THE JARMELS
The Jarmels are a Doo Wop/R&B group. Their single, “A Little Bit of Soap,” reached number 12 in America on the Billboard chart. Destiny opens and closes the show in the Red Rose Dining Room.
APRIL 20 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE APRIL 6 BOBBY PALERMO
MARCH 23 thru 24 DOO WOP WEEKEND EXTRAVAGANZA VI
STARRING - BARBARA HARRIS & THE TOYS THE MYSTICS • THE LEGENDARY TEENAGERS JIMMY GALLAGHER OF THE PASSIONS • DESTINY THE LAS VEGAS SOUNDS • BOB RYMAN The annual event is taking on its sixth year of fun, food, contest and great music from a bygone era. Friday night performances include: The Mystics, Jimmy Gallagher (lead singer of the Passions), Barbara Harris &
Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room, plus Destiny.
Bobby Bobby Palermo has been voted Tampa Bay Entertainer of the Year two years in a row. Enjoy a night of humour, impersonations and fabulously listenable and danceable music. Destiny opens and closes.
APRIL 7 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND
Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room.
APRIL 8 EASTER
BUFFET
Our chefs are preparing a fabulous feast for you! Call for seating times and reservations.
APRIL 21 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND
Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room.
Call 813.752.3141 for Reservations Today! FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON MARCH 2012
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A FAMILY LEGACY OF FESTIVAL QUEENS CHELSEA BOWDEN AND TWO GRANDMOTHERS SHARE PAGEANT HISTORY BY CHERYL JOHNSTON
W
hen Chelsea Bowden was crowned 2012 Strawberry Festival Queen recently, both grandmothers could so relate. That’s because they have each worn that symbol of royalty in earlier pageants.
Chelsea, a 17-year-old Durant High School senior, is now a Queen notable as the first to have two grandmothers who had also reigned. Additionally, the three also share deep Plant City roots, strong connections through family service to the Festival, and lifelong memberships at Plant City’s First Baptist Church. Ruby Jean Barker Redman and Barbara Alley Bowden both described their response to Chelsea’s new title as “elated.” Ruby Jean Redman, the 1953 Queen, entered the competition with several friends, she said, “as a joke, thinking I had no chance. Like today, there were so many pretty girls.” Her experience, she recalled, was “quite different from Chelsea’s.” In that year’s twonight affair, the court named Monday was “fitted with matching gowns for the announcement of the Queen” crowned three evenings later on Thursday.
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you’re eliminated, it’s not the end of the world. It’s fun and an honor to represent Plant City. Just make the best of it.” As for advice for her “tall and stately granddaughter with tremendous stage presence,” Redman has none. She laughed, “Mine would be so out of date. She’ll be just fine because she’s excited to do a good job.” Barbara Alley Bowden reigned in 1948, the first year the pageant established in 1930 resumed after a seven-year pause for World War II. Bowden’s pageant experience differed, too. She said, “We wore formal dresses only and mine was one I’d worn to a prior prom. Today it costs quite a bit for girls to compete with three outfits and time spent in practice. Now it’s very important to have lots of support from family and friends.” Bowden complimented the 2012 contestants. “All of the girls did a great job and anyone of them would have made a lovely Queen.” Then she added, “Obviously, though, we’re thrilled for Chelsea.”
Redman also noted a difference in pageant prizes. Today’s Queen and Court receive a New York shopping trip and scholarships. “Our prizes,” she said, “included money for a 6-week modeling course and kitchen appliances like toasters and coffeepots.”
When first time entrant Chelsea’s name was announced as 2012 Queen, her surprised look was priceless. Had the cameras zoomed in on the more than a dozen cheering family members, they also would have captured a perfectly priceless picture of hometown family love and support.
Redman, who later served numerous years with the Lions Club pageant committee, offered helpful advice to future contestants. “Don’t take the competition too seriously. If
And because of that love, our new Queen says she wants nothing more than “to carry on a legacy.”
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LOCAL OWNERS • LOCAL DECISIONS
Platinum Bank welcomes you to the 2012 Florida Strawberry Festival
Plant City Office 1804 James L. Redman Pkwy., Plant City, FL 33563 Telephone (813) 659-1234 | Fax (813) 659-9134 Other Locations: Brandon, Lakeland, Tampa, and Winter Haven
Lobby Hours: Monday –Thursday 9:00am – 4:00 pm Friday 9:00am – 6:00pm Drive Thru Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00am – 6:00 pm 24 hour ATM in the Drive Thru Member FDIC
www.platinumbank.com
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STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL PRESIDENT RON GAINEY LOOKS FORWARD TO OPENING DAY BY DAVE NICHOLSON
R
on Gainey’s service at the Florida Strawberry Festival has literally taken him from the pigpen to the presidency.
Gainey is in his first year in the top job but he’s a veteran festival volunteer whose early roles included heading up the swine show. He promises a bumper crop of fun for guests when the fest opens its 11-day run on March 1. “We look forward to a great year at the festival,” said Gainey, who was elected to the position in April by his fellow directors. Festival General Manager Paul Davis said the choice of Gainey was a good one as the celebration stays true to its hometown roots. “Ron Gainey has a passion for the festival and he has a passion for this community,” Davis said. “He really works hard to make sure every event is better than the last.”
Gainey, a native of South Carolina, moved to Plant City in 1966 after serving in the Navy for four years. He started working at Plant City Steel but soon decided on a career switch to insurance. Colleagues in his new line of work, including Billy Vernon and Ray “Rolly” Rollyson Jr., encouraged him to help out at the festival. He and his wife Vonda soon were busy volunteering – and loving every minute of it. Over the years, his roles have included heading up the festival’s switch to electronic ticketing and leading the committee on the $3.6 million Madonia center. Gainey said the groundwork for the Madonia center goes back to the early 1980s when attorney and former state lawmaker James L. Redman and rancher and citrus grower Harry Carlton first dreamed of such a facility. He hopes the festival can complete the vision by adding two livestock pavilions on the grounds by the end of the year, thanks in no small way to an anticipated $1 million generated by naming rights.
Gainey said visitors to the festival will notice changes that include competitive livestock shows in the new Evelyn & Batista Madonia Sr. Agriculture Show Center and volunteers who will roam the grounds offering assistance. Gainey credits his wife Vonda with the idea for what he calls Berry Ambassadors, a new set of volunteers who starting this year will help guests find their way around the festiHe wants to make sure that the celebration of the area’s top crop offers a great entertain- val grounds. The volunteers will wear identifying vests and “give directions or whatever ment value, including a lot of free shows. “We are the third largest fair in the state of help is needed,” actively seeking out guests who appear to be lost. Florida” and one of the largest in the nation, said Gainey, a 68-year-old agent at Poppell Insurance. Gainey notes that the festival runs on its 2,000 volunteers. He is enlisting the help of associate directors to expand the pool of volunteers. With the help of strong ticket sales for such headline acts as Reba, The Band Perry, Luke Bryan and Hank Williams Jr., and a larger than ever tribute to veterans, police and other “When you get new people you get new ideas and you get new volunteers,” he said. first responders on the March 7 American Heroes Day, he’s hoping crowds will top last year’s record 545,000.
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2012 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Direct Auto Insurance Free Grandstand: Limited stadium seats “FREE” for all shows with general admission. Seating is on a first-come, first seated basis. Stadium shows are at 3:30 pm and 7:30 pm daily. Stadium cleared after each 3:30 pm show. Reserved seat tickets available at the Amscot Main Ticket Gate located at 2209 W. Oak Ave., Plant City, FL 33563. An additional ticket office adjacent to east side bleachers open during Festival to sell any remaining reserved seat tickets. Reserved concert seat tickets DO NOT include gate admission. Ages 3 & up require a ticket for shows. You can purchase reserved seat Tickets online at www.flstrawberryfestival.com. Gates open at 10:00 am & close at 10:00 pm daily. Children 5 & under are admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. Children 6 to 12 require a youth ticket purchase of $5.00. General admission is $10.00 for patrons 13+. Dogs and/or other animals are not allowed on the Festival grounds unless they are a service or guide dog, non-human primate or animals in a show or contest. Certified trainers (with ID stating same) of companion dogs/animals will be allowed. All animals in shows or contests are to be removed immediately after the close of the event. No illegal drugs, firearms, alcoholic beverages, or pets are allowed on the Festival grounds. Because of the early printing of this events schedule, changes, errors, deletions, or omissions may occur, in which case the Florida Strawberry Festival® reserves the right to construe its own rules and regulations and to decide all matters and differences in regard thereto.
THURSDAY, MARCH 1ST Senior Citizen’s Day | Ride-A-Thon Day
Patrons 60 years of age or older get $2.00 off the gate admission of $10.00 all day. Senior Day is Sponsored By: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida. Ride-A-Thon from 3:00 pm until 11:00 pm. A wristband purchased at the Midway for $19.00 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides for this one low price. 10:00 am.................. Gates Open.............................. Midway Opens at 12:00 noon 10:00 am – Close.... Poultry & Rabbit Shows......................... CF Industries Ag Tent 10:30 am – Noon..... Jimmy Sturr & Orchestra•................. Wish Farms Soundstage Noon........................ Senior Citizens’ Drawing• ................ Wish Farms Soundstage (One drawing only-MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN) 3:30 pm.................... The Oak Ridge Boys....................... Wish Farms Soundstage 7:00 pm.................... Youth Swine Show............................................... Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 7:00 pm.................... Karaoke Contest..................................Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent 7:30 pm.................... Gretchen Wilson............................. Wish Farms Soundstage
FRIDAY, MARCH 2ND
Sweetbay Supermarket Day on the Midway Moonlight Magic Night Sweetbay Supermarket Day on the Midway 12:00 Noon to 10:00 pm Present any “My Essentials” non-perishable item at entry gate & receive $2.00 off the regular price of $20.00 Fun Pack Ride Coupon Book. Moonlight Magic – Ride most mechanical rides for one special price of $20.00 per person. All patrons entering the Midway for this event will be required to purchase a $20.00 wristband, 11:00 pm until 3:00 am. All patrons entering the grounds are subject to search. 10:00 am.................. Gates Open...............................Midway opens at 12:00 noon 10:00 am – Close.... Poultry & Rabbit Shows • ..................... CF Industries Ag Tent 1:00 pm.................... Dairy Contestant Judging....... Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 3:30 pm.................... The Gatlin Brothers/Crystal Gayle.......................................... ........................................................................................... Wish Farms Soundstage 7:00 pm.................... Youth Swine Sale.................... Patterson Co. Livestock Arena
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2012 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm.Bell Shoals Baptist................................................................... ...................................................................Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent 7:30 pm.................... Demi Lovato.................................... Wish Farms Soundstage 11:00 pm – 3:00 am.Moonlight Magic........................................................... Midway
SATURDAY, MARCH 3RD Kids’ Day | Youth Parade Day
Kids through high school age admitted free all day. Youth Stemming Contest Sponsored By: SunnyRidge Farm. Kids Day is Sponsored By: Wells Fargo. Suite Caroline Sponsored By: Fantastic Sams. 10:00 am.................. Gates Open..................................Midway Opens at 10:00 am 10:00 am – Close.... Poultry & Rabbit Shows......................... CF Industries Ag Tent 11:00 am.................. Youth Parade............................................State Farmers Market Noon........................ Dairy Show Showmanship................................... Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 1:00 pm.................... Suite Caroline................................. Wish Farms Soundstage 2:00 pm.................... Youth Strawberry Stemming....................................................... ....................................................................Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent 2:00 pm.................... Dairy Show............................. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 3:30 pm.................... The JaneDear Girls......................... Wish Farms Soundstage 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm.Hola Plant City........Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent 7:30 pm.................... Air Supply........................................ Wish Farms Soundstage
SUNDAY, MARCH 4TH Mountain Dew Family Day
Bring a Mountain Dew can to the Festival and receive a voucher for $5.00 off the $25.00 wristband and ride all day for only $20.00. Mountain Dew can is not valid for gate admission. Dairy Shows Sponsored By: Tractor Supply Company. 10:00 am.................. Gates Open..................................Midway Opens at 10:00 am 10:00 am – Close.... Poultry & Rabbit Shows......................... CF Industries Ag Tent 11:00 am.................. Adult Showmanship (Dairy).... Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 11:30 am.................. Pee Wee Showmanship (Dairy)................................................. ................................................................................. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 12:30 pm.................. Dairy Costume Ball................. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 2:00 pm.................... Youth Plant Sale.................................... CF Industries Ag Tent 3:30 pm.................... Jake Owen....................................... Wish Farms Soundstage 3:45 pm - 4:45 pm... Registration for Baby Contest.............Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent (Hillsborough County Babies Only) 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm.. Baby Contest: Decorated Diaper Contest; Baby Features Contest; Diaper Derby (Hillsborough County Babies Only) 7:30 pm.................... Hank Williams Jr............................. Wish Farms Soundstage “Taking Back The Country Tour”
MONDAY, MARCH 5TH Grand Parade Day | Ride-A-Thon Day
Ride-A-Thon from 10:00 am until 11:00 pm. A wristband purchased at the Midway for $19.00 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides for this one low price. Grand Parade Day Sponsored By: United States Marine Corps. Lamb Contests Sponsored By: Sunbelt Rentals 7:30 am.................... Farm Credit Strawberry Salute Breakfast................................... Invitational 10:00 am.................. Gates Open.................................. Midway opens at 10:00 am 10:00 am – Close.... Poultry & Rabbit Shows......................... CF Industries Ag Tent 10:30 am.................. Invitational Parade Luncheon.................................... Sponsored by: . .......................... FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON MARCH 2012
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2012 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Regions Bank 1:00 pm.................... Grand Parade Begins................................ Downtown Plant City 2:00 pm.................... Grand Parade Passes by the Festival 3:30 pm.................... Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals............... Wish Farms Soundstage 5:00 pm.................... Lamb Jumping Contest.......................... CF Industries Ag Tent 6:00 pm.................... Lamb Show............................................ CF Industries Ag Tent 7:30 pm.................... Josh Turner..................................... Wish Farms Soundstage
TUESDAY, MARCH 6TH Red Hat Day | Ride-A-Thon Day
Ride-A-Thon From 3:00 pm until 11:00 pm. A wristband purchased at the Midway for $19.00 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides for this one low price. Red Hatters get $2.00 off the gate admission of $10.00 all day. Red Hat Day Sponsored By: Red Rose Inn & Suites. Adult Stemming Contest Sponsored By: SunnyRidge Farm. 10:00 am.................. Gates Open.............................. Midway Opens at 12:00 noon 10:00 am – Close.... Poultry & Rabbit Shows..........................CF Industries Ag Tent 10:30 am.................. Red Hatters Welcome............................................ Grandstand 2:00 pm.................... Adult Strawberry Stemming Contest.......................................... ....................................................................Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent 3:30 pm.................... Brenda Lee...................................... Wish Farms Soundstage 7:00 pm.................... Lamb Costume Contest......................... CF Industries Ag Tent 7:30 pm.................... Vince Gill......................................... Wish Farms Soundstage
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7TH American Heroes Day | Ride-A-Thon Day
Ride-A-Thon from 3:00 pm until 11:00 pm. A wristband purchased at the Midway for $19.00 will entitle wearer to ride most mechanical rides for this one low price. All active, reserve, retired military, veterans, law enforcement & first responders are admitted free with valid ID. American Heroes Day Sponsored By: FOX 13 CARE*FORCE 10:00 am.................. Gates Open.............................. Midway Opens at 12:00 noon 10:00 am – 3:00 pm.Poultry & Rabbit Shows......................... CF Industries Ag Tent 1:00 pm.................... Superdog Corndog Eating Contest............................................. ....................................................................Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent 3:15 pm.................... Honor American Heroes................. Wish Farms Soundstage 3:30 pm.................... Lee Greenwood/Louise Mandrell.. Wish Farms Soundstage 6:00 pm.................... Youth Steer Show................... Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 7:30 pm.................... The Band Perry............................... Wish Farms Soundstage
THURSDAY, MARCH 8TH Senior Citizen’s Day | Ride-A-Thon Day
Patrons 60 years and older get $2.00 off the gate admission of $10.00 all day. Senior Day is Sponsored By: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida. Ride-A-Thon from 3:00 pm until 11:00 pm. A wristband purchased at the Midway for $19.00 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides for this one low price. 10:00 am.................. Gates Open.............................. Midway Opens at 12:00 noon 10:30 am – Noon..... Ronnie McDowell............................ Wish Farms Soundstage Noon........................ Senior Citizens’ Drawing Wish Farms Soundstage (One drawing only – MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN) 3:00 pm.................... Strawberry Shortcake Eating Contest........................................ ....................................................................Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent 3:30 pm.................... The Charlie Daniels Band.............. Wish Farms Soundstage 7:30 pm.................... Luke Bryan...................................... Wish Farms Soundstage
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2012 FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS FRIDAY, MARCH 9TH
The Tampa Tribune Day on the Midway Moonlight Magic Night The Tampa Tribune Day on the Midway Noon to 10:00 pm - $2.00 off the regular price of $20.00 Fun Pack Ride Coupon Book. Sponsored by: The Tampa Tribune. Moonlight Magic – Ride most mechanical rides for one special price of $20.00 per person. All patrons entering the Midway for this event will be required to purchase a $20.00 wristband, 11:00 pm until 3:00 am. All patrons entering grounds are subject to search. 10:00 am.................. Gates Open.............................. Midway Opens at 12:00 noon 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm.. Livestock Contestant Judging..................................................... ................................................................................. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 3:30 pm.................... Cornell Gunter’s Coasters Bobby Hendrick’s Drifters The Platters..................................... Wish Farms Soundstage 6:00 pm.................... Showmanship Judging-Beef Breed............................................ CF Industries Ag Tent 7:30 pm.................... TobyMac.......................................... Wish Farms Soundstage 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm... Makenzie Raye....................................Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent 11:00 pm – 3:00 am.Moonlight Magic........................................................... Midway
SATURDAY, MARCH 10TH Farm Worker Appreciation Day
Farm Worker Appreciation Day Sponsored By: Wish Farms. 10:00 am.................. Gates Open..................................Midway Opens at 10:00 am 10:15 am.................. Baby Parade................................................................. Stadium 3:30 pm.................... Allstar Weekend . ........................... Wish Farms Soundstage 7:00 pm ................... Youth Steer Sale..................... Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 7:30 pm – 10:00 pm..Rev. Art Jones and the Bible Based Fellowship Church Cathedral Choir..........................................Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent 7:30 pm.................... Rodney Atkins................................. Wish Farms Soundstage
SUNDAY, MARCH 11TH Mountain Dew Family Day
Bring a Mountain Dew can to the Festival and receive a voucher for $5.00 off the $25.00 wristband & ride all day for only $20.00. Mountain Dew can is not valid for gate admission. Beef Breed contest Sponsored By: Purina Mills® 10:00 am.................. Gates Open..................................Midway Opens at 10:00 am 11:00 am.................. Youth Beef Breed Show..........................CF Industries Ag Tent 3:30 pm.................... Easton Corbin................................. Wish Farms Soundstage 7:30 pm.................... Reba................................................. Wish Farms Soundstage
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FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON MARCH 2012
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速
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FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON MARCH 2012
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Heritage and Community Six Share Their Legacies
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Interveiw by Cheryl Johnston
n our August 2008 issue, Focus featured “Bits of Brandon History: Deep roots spreading wide.” We’ve long hoped to share more of that history and those stories. But my how time does fly.
Thanks to The Community Roundtable’s annual event February 21, 2012 we’re delighted to offer another peek into the past (and some wise counsel for the future) through memories and words of six members of pioneering families. Their deep-rooted heritage in this community is a gift to us all. We gathered the group for a photo shoot on the big porch of the historic Brandon family homestead, now known as Stowers Funeral Home, and asked their responses to five questions. From those conversations, notes from the Roundtable event and via the wonder of electronic communication, comes this month’s Spotlight interview with (ladies first) Claire Simmons Bryan, Judy Darsey, Helen Mulrennan Young, Mike Brandon, Paul Dinnis, and Dick Stowers. One thing is for certain - these folks and their ancestors were doers and givers. Talk about a humbling and joyful experience - it’s no wonder we writers have a passion for this work. You’re gonna love this read. Ralph King (left), the oldest son of the John R. King family, was father to Alyce King Darsey (who was mother-in-law to Judy Darsey)
Focus: Explain your specific relationship to Brandon’s early history and tell us what you enjoy most about life in the community now. Claire Simmons Bryan: My father was Hobson Simmons, son of E.E. and Ella Simmons, both ordained Church of God ministers who did missionary work in Jamaica. Hobson farmed and loved to plant orange groves and purchase pastureland and then sell the property. His family had oame to Florida from North Carolina several generations earlier. FishHawk Skeet Shoot on Hobson Simmons Road is on land previously owned by my father. The River Hills community where I live is very friendly and we enjoy annual socials together in different homes.
Judy Darsey: My mother-in-law was Alyce
King Darsey, daughter of Ralph Garland King and granddaughter of John R. King, who in 1881 homesteaded what is now the Vineyard. His property once included the area from King to John Moore and north to about what is now Lumsden. Ralph raised his family on the corner of King and Victoria. Benny and I moved in 1996 to the rural Hillsborough County property once owned by my grandfather, Hobson Simmons, who had given it to my mother Claire Bryan. She and Dad had a cattle ranch there. When Dad passed away she gave us 10 acres and we built our home so we could care for our cattle and property and manage hers as well. Although the community is not the rural neighborhood it once was, today it remains family oriented. People are friendly and ready to lend others a helping hand.
Helen MulrennanYoung: I am a granddaughter of the original owners of the 160 acres now occupied by Mulrennan Middle School and was born and raised on the school grounds with five
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brothers. When our son was 12 we built a home on that land; Interestingly, I have the actual land grant copy signed by President Chester A. Arthur. Five generations of Mulrennans are here now. My grandfather’s younger brother came first from Ireland and fought in the Civil War. I love the familiarity among my many friends from my early years and the new friends I’ve made since we returned in 1995 after 25 years away in Miami. I’m happy to be in the environment I grew up in. Kiwanis recently surprised me with a party for my 89th birthday. There is such a beautiful spirit in our club; you can feel the love.
Michael J. Brandon: I am the great grandson
of John Brandon, the founder of the Brandon, Florida community. I’m pleased that we don’t need to do much shopping in Tampa, because we can purchase whatever we need right here. Also, getting around Brandon is very easy because streets are well marked, and crime in our area is way below the national average.
and their seven children) that was owned at that time by Margaret Clayton (of Clayton Plaza). Jim Blanton, a realtor with a desk in the barbershop, helped negotiate the price of $26,250. With financial backing from John “Rudy” Williams, I bought the Folk Southern Victorian mansion in September 1960. By January of ’61, Stowers Funeral Home (and ambulance service for eastern Hillsborough County until 1978) was operational. I’ve loved this work. I come from the old school that if people can find their niche with their work, they’re happy people. So many today are working in jobs they don’t like.
flagpole and tore up the lawn. Mr. McLane tried to get Leslie Bogich to own up to doing it. Later the principal announced that his own son Frank had confessed and would be “duly punished.” We students decided he sent Frank to bed without dinner and then his mother sneaked it into his room. At that time there were no restaurants in Brandon since in the Depression days no one had much money. Many people pulled moss to sell. There were no doctors in Brandon and only a few in Plant City. If you were desperately ill, you went to St. Joseph or Tampa General hospitals.
Focus: Share with us one interesting, humorous, or difficult situation that you or your pioneer relatives experienced that might interest readers.
his grandfather Ralph was ill, so we left church in Tampa and drove to Brandon. As we turned onto King Ave we passed Pearl Circle and I commented, “Those are beautiful homes, but I would never want to buy one. They are too close
Bryan: Someone drove a car around the school
Darsey: In 1959 when Benny and I were dating,
Paul Dinnis: I’m a non-pioneer who arrived in
1959 to be the first editor of the Brandon News. I have rather extensively researched the John Brandon family doings and impact. I appreciate the friendliness of people, the good motives most have, their compassion to aid their fellows, and the social organizations we have that benefit young and old, alike.
Dick Stowers: When I was eight I attended the
funeral of a four-year-old girl. From that day I wanted to be a funeral director. So I studied and took a job with another funeral home. I just fell in love with the two-story Brandon family homestead (built in 1876 by James H. Brandon, son of town founders John and Martha, for his wife Johanna
Brandon pioneers share stories at Community Roundtable
together.” We married and in 1966 bought the last home built - on PEARL CIRCLE. Both sets of our parents, Claire Simmons Bryan, Reynolds Bryan, Alyce King Darsey and Enoch Darsey attended Brandon School all 12 grades. Our daughters went to McLane Jr. High and graduated from Brandon High School. We all are members of the Brandon First United Methodist Church.
Stowers, who was decked out as a circus clown complete with red-ball nose (as I recall). He pedaled a bicycle up and down, back and forth, cajoling with spectators, creating great fun for himself and the onlookers. Everybody knew who Dick Stowers was!
Stowers: I got kicked out of class for throwing
Focus: Describe your community involvement now. Bryan: I’ve been a Brandon Service League
member since 1975 and served four years as president. We host a Special Arts Festival annually for more than 200 children with disabilities
Young: In 1934 when I was 11, our home
(built of virgin pine timber) on today’s Mulrennan school site burned down and we lost everything. It was tragic, but also heartwarming how the community reached out to help us and we survived. The Brandon School band has been a huge part of our family’s life. I played clarinet in its very first class; my father took us for uniform fittings in his Model A Ford to a local seamstress. My mom and Dad were at every parade in several counties and were very involved in Brandon School fundraisers for the various student programs. They sold chicken and rice dinners made by mom and roasted peanuts at basketball games. My son played trumpet and both of our great grandchildren are in Mulrennan’s band.
Dinnis: Not much community involvement
anymore. I have always been active in church, but now attend to give a bit of moral support for good causes, etc. Still do a bit of writing, now-and-then…
Stowers: We are active in our church, First
Baptist of Brandon, for which John Brandon donated the land. I was a Kiwanis member for more than 40 years. Now we get involved with school activities at Stowers Elementary and take trips with our grandchildren.
Focus: What advice would you offer young families living here now with regards to the community’s future?
When my husband’s construction work slowed after our son started school, I took a job with the Harris Restaurant owners (where the BP station is now on SR60) and spent a wonderful 18 years, until 1970, working hard and serving people. It became a joy to me. The delicious food was always fresh, from vegetables to meats/fish and homemade yeast rolls and pies people loved to take home. As a teen my son Jim dressed in black pants, white shirt and tie to greet customers and offer menus. It was a great family experience.
Brandon: When I was five I saw my
Bryan: Support the churches in the
neighborhood. Keep McLane Middle School going. Mr. E.F. McLane, the school’s namesake, was principal for 36 years.
Darsey: That those whose roots of the
pioneering families will keep history alive and not allow all the pastures and homesteads to be paved over; that young families will remain rooted in the sense of family, community, and their church.
community-togetherness Fourth of July parade that included the hilarious shenanigans of Dick
Young: To me it’s just ‘Become involved’: reach
Brandon Homestead historical marker
grandmother choking a chicken (wringing the neck). When I asked why she was hurting it she replied, “You’ll see tonight.” Several hours later she told me the chicken on the table was the one she had pulled by the neck. As she plucked its feathers and began to prepare it for dinner, I told her it looked like a small man and that I’d never ever eat something like that. Guess what? I never have and never will eat chicken. That was 70 years ago.
Dinnis: One joyous remembrance is of an annual
Brandon: I have a nine-year-old son who I take to school every day. The elementary school has asked me to talk about my great grandfather’s trip from Mississippi to the Brandon area (which was New Hope at the time). The school also wanted me to discuss information about my grandmother Mable Cody, the niece of Buffalo Bill Cody, who was famous in her barnstorming/wingwalking days. With all the things a nine-year-old wants to do and keeping up with his baseball and basketball, I stay very busy, but I love it.
a blacksnake in Mrs. Rucherman’s biology class. She was so angry she took me to the principal’s office and demanded that V.M. McLane suspend me for five days. I pleaded with him to give me licks instead because my mom would wear me out for that mischief. After he gave me the licks, he shook my hand and apologized. When Stowers Elementary was named after us, Frances Rucherman, who’s now 88, called me from Providence, Rhode Island with her congratulations.
from southern Hillsborough County. We’ve given $13,000 to Brandon charities and keep the Brandon Parkway clean. I’m also a member of Eastern Star and served two different times as Worthy Matron.
out if you see someone that needs help - maybe a widow who’s alone; just go visit and bring sunshine and love into someone else’s life. When you love, you make yourself a happier person. If you have something you could share, you should. That’s what life is all about. Also, do things for fun that don’t cost a lot of money. I don’t want to see us lose the real values in life.
Darsey: I am a past president and still active in
Brandon: The Brandon area is growing by leaps
the Brandon Women’s Club - “Brandon Service League”. Benny’s grandmother, Susie Bell King, was a member of the original Brandon Women’s Club.
Young: Every Friday morning I go to
Six Brandon residents with ties to the area’s 155-year history gathered on the front porch of the landmark Brandon homestead (Stowers Funeral Home). (L-R) Mike Brandon, Claire Simmons Bryan, Paul Dinnis, Helen Mulrennan Young, Judy Darsey and Dick Stowers.
and bounds. Home values, now at a record low, means this is the time to buy in Brandon.
Dinnis: Think about perpetuating the good
Cornerstone Baptist Church and fold all the bulletins for Sunday service. My son, his wife and my granddaughter attend there also (12 years now). I’m the Sunshine lady in our very active Kiwanis and send cards out from church as well. The club supplies books we read and give to children, so I crochet teddy bear bookmarks for them. We’ve given away 150 in the last two years, and I already have 30 made for this next Christmas. I also crochet baby and Afghan coverlets for children. I have survived cancer (4 surgeries in three months and five years of treatments), so I believe God is leaving me around to be a light and to share with others. This is why I stay involved. I’m a very contented person. You can have all the money in the world but without friends you don’t have anything. I love to reach out and bring joy and sunshine into other people’s lives.
motives and continuing good results that made for a commendably positive and good community.
Stowers: Discover work you love. Invest time
and money in the things that will stand - things like the Boy Scouts and the Boys and Girls Clubs. Last night (2-23-12) we attended the annual BSA Eagle Scout event and I’m always happy to help. Do things that matter with your kids. Be givers instead of takers.
Focus: As seems obvious to these folks and to our readers, sharing life with family, friends and business associates and doing for others makes the world go ‘round. It’s also what makes us happy. We salute you, pioneers, for building and continuing the legacy of Brandon. Long life and contentment - what more can anyone ask? We are blessed because of you.
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BUSINESS PROFILE » FOCUS
FERMAN CELEBRATING OVER A CENTURY OF SERVICE WRITTEN BY: KELLEIGH KLEIN
I
t seems like Fred Ferman always had a knack for anything with wheels and a steering system.
In 1895, he was running a prosperous little buggy and bicycle shop. Then, at the age of 21, some new invention called the “horseless carriage” caught his fancy, and, with employee Victor James, he began building automobiles in the bike shop. By 1902, Mr. Ferman was awarded a pioneer Oldsmobile dealership, the first of many brands that would eventually display the Ferman name. And thus, the Ferman Motor Car Company was born.
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Today with 13 locations, over 20 affiliated franchises and more than 700 dedicated employees, Ferman Motor Car Company pledges to continue its 100-year-plus tradition of providing quality automobiles and excellent service. It’s a claim no other automobile dealer in Central Florida can make. Ferman Motor Car Company bases its entire business philosophy on one simple premise: The Golden Rule. As Jim Ferman, Sr. sees it, “For us, treating each individual as you would like to be treated is the only rule that will suffice in any relationship, business or personal. We’ve got to do more than sell.
We’re here to do whatever it takes to make people happy.” It’s a philosophy that has earned Ferman the trust and respect of the car-buying public – one customer and one car at a time. And it has helped make Ferman Motor Car Company the oldest continuously franchised dealership organization in the United States. At the helm of the Ferman Acura and Ferman Mazda dealerships is General Manager Dennis Hall. Born in Detroit into a military family, Dennis began his career journey as a welder. He says, “I got tired of getting my eyes burned and having to wear eye patches and decided it was time to leave the trade and look for another career”. His father, Jim Hall, offered to let Dennis clean cars until he decided what to career path he would pursue. That began his 25-year career in the car dealership business. He has been a part of the Ferman family for 11 of those years. In addition to car sales, Dennis is committed
to community involvement, as is Jim Ferman and the Ferman Motor Car Company. Organizations like the United Way of Tampa Bay benefit from Ferman’s commitment to the community. In fact, Ferman employees donated $24,300 in 2011 to the United Way through a well-structured and fun giving campaign that rewarded employees for giving back. Ferman also supports Metropolitan Ministries, MOSI and Miles for Moffitt. Dennis and his wife Ewa Hall have a blended family of six children with five grandchildren and one on the way. His leisure time passion is offshore fishing (no phone, no stress). Dennis manages the Acura and Mazda dealerships by Ferman principles, “We continue to treat our employees as family and our customers as friends, and provide the service, selection and value to earn your business one car at a time.” Ferman Acura Mazda is located at 11025 N. Florida Avenue, Tampa, FL 33612. To contact by phone, the number is 888-7249530.
ENTERTAINMENT » DINING PROFILE George and Ana make their own sauces to be served alongside for dipping or spooned over the food. A red hot “Childe de Arbol” sauce, the spiciest and tastiest, is a favorite of diners, along with the guacamole-and-tomatillo based “Mild Green.” The third is a hot green Jalapeno based blend. The actual spices used will remain family secrets. You must come and try. Diners can select from the ever-popular quesadillas, flautas, empanadas or burritos. For dessert, Ana recommends the empanada filled with guava and melted cheese. To see the complete menu, visit online at www. rajasmexicangrill.com. Fax or phone orders for single meals or group luncheons are welcome. Raja’s also offers catering for any size gathering or function. The Llaneras family and their cooks from Mexico and Guatemala would love to meet you. “We’d like the locals to experience the food others have described as ‘old
RAJA’S F
INFORMATION 228 OAKFIELD DRIVE BRANDON, FL 33511 (ACROSS FROM BRANDON HOSPITAL) 813-477-4076 813-381-3869 FOR FAX ORDERS MON-THURS 11:30AM - 7:30PM FRIDAY 11:30AM - CALL WWW.RAJASMEXICANGRILL.COM school.’ From this phrase, we know we’ve accomplished what we wanted to do, which was to create that same great food we purchased off the neighborhood taco stand or from one of the many great Mexican restaurants scattered all over Southern California. We hope you will come and visit us and experience what real Mexican food is all about.” And we wholeheartedly agree. Come taste and see. The food is “muy bueno!”
MEXICAN GRILL WRITTEN BY: CHERYL JOHNSTON
or generous portions of “great authentic Mexican food southern California style” at very reasonable prices, plan a trip to Raja’s Mexican Grill soon. The Llaneras family promises, “You won’t be disappointed.”
that awesome Southern California Mexican food we loved to Brandon.”
George and Ana Llaneras opened their family restaurant in the Oakfield Square shopping center, across from the Brandon Hospital, in October 2011 with a dream to bring some of their California style Mexican dishes to diners in Brandon.
On this visit we tried the Taco Salad and the Taquito Dinner, both available either with picadillo beef or with chicken. The serve was food within 10 minutes, which means that folks in a hurry at lunchtime need not be delayed in getting back to work. In fact, Ana shared that when the line of waiting customers extended out the door last Friday, everyone was served in plenty of time to still enjoy their a leisurely lunch.
The family moved here seven years ago from the Mission Viejo when George was transferred with his sales position in the robotics industry. Cuban-born Ana had spent 25 year as an orthopedic nurse in southern California. Together they enjoyed cooking authentic dishes from their combined cultures of Mexico, Cuba, and Argentina. The best part of those experiences was in the sharing with friends and family.
Served in a flour tortilla bowl, the Taco Salad was huge and very satisfying. We especially enjoyed the Mexican rice layered across the bottom below the meat, refried beans, lettuce, and tomatoes. A gracious dollop of sour cream was placed along one side, making it easy to blend in with the other ingredients if you desire. We took half of the salad home and warmed it in the oven for our evening meal, too.
And now the Llaneras family is sharing with diners here. Ana explained, “When we moved to Florida, we really missed the great authentic Mexican cuisine that we were used to. So we decided to open Raja’s and bring
Our Chicken Taquitos were served as an entrée with sides of black beans and Mexican rice. Again, this was a tasty choice with plenty of food to fill even the hungriest appetites. FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON MARCH 2012
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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT » EVENT CALENDAR
BRANDON
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
1 WEDS OF EACH MONTH ST
» Greater Brandon Arts Council 9 a.m. Info: Call Anne Drewry, President 813-655-2773.
SATURDAY, MARCH 1
SATURDAY, MARCH 10
» Brandon Health Fair Campo Family YMCA 3414 Culbreath Road, Valrico 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Additional info: call 813-684-1371
» Fashion For A Cause Women’s Resource Center of Tampa and LW Hair Salon will host a fashion show featuring gently worn formal gowns. Try on dresses, place bids and enjoy watching the show. Tickets in advance are $10; At the door $15 Seating is limited and tickets sell quickly Tickets may also be purchased via PayPal: http:// wrctampa.org/events.html All ticket and gown sales benefit Women’s Resource Center. 3 - 6 p.m. at LW Hair Salon Call Robin Dunbar at 813-235-8754 For inquires call Robin Dunbar at 813-235-8754.
SUNDAY, MARCH 4
THURSDAY, MARCH 15
» Annual Chalk Walk For ages 3 and up. Create your own sidewalk masterpiece. Center Place for Fine Arts and Civic Organizations. 1 - 3 p.m. Free event Call the Center Place at 813-685-8888 for details.
» Community Band Concert “Made in America” Eastern Hillsborough Community Band will perform music by American composers and arrangers Rice Creek Mobile Home Park in Riverview 7 p.m. - $5.00 at the door - Reservations not necessary. Information: 813-569-1771
THURSDAY, MARCH 8
SATURDAY, MARCH 22
SATURDAY, MARCH 3
» Poker Night Greater Brandon Kiwanis Foundation Eagles Hall on Front Street, Valrico. Dinner at 5 p.m. Poker starts at 7 p.m. $20.00 includes BBQ meal. Fran Palek has details: 813-417-0211
FRIDAY, MARCH 9
» Taco Recipes Bloomingdale Regional Public Library Rowena Sjovall of nofussfoods.com will demonstrate 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Seating limited to 10 so call early Funded by Friends of the Bloomingdale Public Library. Registration required: call 813-273-3652.
FRIDAY, SATURDAY, MARCH 9, 10
» Raise The Roof-A Variety Show 4th annual show features talent of all ages. James McCabe Theatre - 504 5th Street, Valrico 7 - 9:30 p.m.
MARCH 2012 thefocusmagazine.com
SATURDAY, MARCH 10
» ECHO Yard Sale Benefit Proceeds help purchase food for the food pantry. ECHO - 507 North Parsons Avenue, Brandon 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. For details call ECHO at 813-685-0935. Registration required: call 813-273-3652.
» Savvy Seniors Health Lecture and Bingo The Bridges Clubhouse 11350 Bloomingdale Ave., Riverview 11 a.m - 1:30 p.m. For reservations call 813-653-1065. Free event.
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For info contact Brian Carpenter Brian.bottomlessglass@gmail.com or Miguel Marin - Migue.bottomlessglass@gmail.com or call 813-309-7191
» Cracker Cinderella By Katie Adams Make Believe Theater Children’s Theater 10:15 a.m. Requires advance purchase of $7 tickets Call Center Place office at 813-685-8888.
SATURDAY, MARCH 24 » 4H Horse Show Hillsborough County Fairgrounds 8 a.m.- All Day No fee to watch Fee for entry of each class. Call Kate Waterford: 813-220-6056 hillsborough4h.ifas.ufl.edu.
SATURDAY/SUNDAY, MARCH 24/25
» Dean Martin Show - “At It Again” Saturday night is Dinner & Show. Dinner at 7 p.m.; Show at 8 p.m. Dinner theater requires advance ticket purchase. $40.00 per person. Sunday matinee at 3 p.m; Tickets $25.00 per person For reservations call Center Place at 685-8888.
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