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DECEMBER 2012 thefocusmagazine.com

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CONTENTS | December 2012 | Volume 6 Issue 4

06-08 Local 10 Feature:

Holiday Guide

13 Spotlight:

Echo Executive Director, Stacey Efaw

16 Business Profile

18 Sports Team Of The Month

20 Brandon Chamber of Commerce

24 Al Reuchel

26 Event Calendar

FOCUS

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L to R Sharmaine Burr, Client Center Manager Stacey Efaw, Executive Director Joni Damico, Center Director

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LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER Welcome to the month of Christmas and Gratitude. Are you thankful the elections are over? Whether your candidate won or lost, our country is still working to move forward. No matter the results, life goes on … and now we can all get back to being grateful for everyday things like family, work, food and shelter, and faith in the future. DeDe and I had great fun reading the unique daily thanks expressed by so many on Facebook posts this past month - the challenge was to offer one a day throughout November. If you haven’t yet read the book, A Simple Act of Gratitude by John Kralik, I highly recommend you do. His true story, subtitled, “How Learning to Say Thank You Changed My Life” contains some powerful life lessons. One was a simple spelling lesson. During the process of writing one thank you note a day for a whole year, Kralik discovered he’d been misspelling grateful all his life. He writes, “I had been spelling it as if a greatful person was a person full of greatness, rather than a person full of gratitude.” It’s a quick read and I promise, one you’ll never forget. You might even want to consider it for those on your Christmas list. In addition to our annual Buyer’s Guide feature focused on local shopping ideas, this issue includes special stories about the new Access Church and the Center Place Christmas Party that allowed children to create unique gifts for those they love. The December spotlight shines on Stacey Efaw, the Executive Director of E.C.H.O., who shares her joy in being involved with this giving community to serve those in need. Thank you, readers, for sharing your lives with us and for supporting these and other local efforts. You’re great encouragers and for that, we are especially grateful. May this season of lights and gift-giving be your best ever.

Mike Floyd - Publisher mike@floydpublications.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 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.

Credit Manager Angel Carter acarter@floydpublications.com Sales Aldo Trevino | Susan Nieves | Joseph Roberts Cindy Cutting | Jennifer Chamberlain Art Director Anthony Sassano

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.

Production Intern Abby Born Distribution Byron Spradlin Belva DeVane Photographers NamPhan Photography

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.

floyd publications, inc. FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON DECEMBER 2012

children can visit Santa and families can enjoy refreshments provided by Boston Market. On Thurs., Dec. 6 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., Center Place will provide a holiday openhouse with refreshments and an exhibit by the Paint Box Studio. Pat’s Corner artist-created gifts will be available at discounted prices with all funds going to support free shows for school children from throughout the county who might never have the opportunity to experience live theater. The final event is the 7 p.m., Dec.14 Stages Productions show “Santa’s Holiday Review.”

The fast-paced musical encompasses traditions from Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. The volunteer board and gift shop workers make it possible for children and adults in our community to experience art and creativity. Center Place, a non-profit organization, also fills the ever-increasing void left by the elimination of public school art programs. For more information about Center Place, ticket information and art classes, call 813685-8888 or visit www.centerplacebrandon. org.

Santa hears about children’s Christmas wishes at the annual Center Place Christmas Workshop

KIDS CREATE GIFTS AT SANTA’S WORKSHOP ANNUAL SANTA WORKSHOP HELD AT CENTER PLACE C WRITTEN BY: CHERYL KUCK

enter Place Fine Arts and Civic Association at 619 Vonderburg Drive continued to bring the joy of creativity and the arts to area children at the fifthannual Santa’s Workshop on Sat., Nov. 10 where they learned that the best gifts are handmade.

Santa’s volunteers helped children decorate cookies and create a variety of crafts, including wishing spools, candy cane mice, keepsake gingerbread house photo frames, pine cone reindeers, decoratively stamped bookmarks and “Night Before Christmas” ornaments. Children could also enter an elf coloring contest and write letters to Santa. After all their work, children went to a giftwrapping station, where volunteers from Music Showcase helped them with holiday wrapping, and finally enjoyed a personal visit and photos with Santa. For just $10 per ticket per child (to cover the cost of materials), all were treated to a priceless and memorable experience. Children, along with their accompanying family members, received boxed lunches from

DECEMBER 2012 thefocusmagazine.com

the Brandon Lake Village Chick-fil A. In addition, they could browse an outstanding display of artwork by children’s art teacher Betty Fairbanks.

Center Place Marketing Director Lisa Rodriguez shows 10-year-old Kristy Cheyenne how to make a personalized holiday bookmark.

“This starts kids thinking about the gift of giving. Making something for mom, dad or grandparents is a fulfilling experience for them and become treasured memories for gift recipients. We consider this a community outreach for children,” said Lisa Rodriguez, Center Place marketing director. Santa’s Workshop kicked off the civic center’s jam-packed holiday season schedule which encompasses the second-annual Holiday Ladies Tea from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sun., Dec. 2 with a silent auction and entertainment, followed by the Wed., Dec. 5 Community Roundtable and Cox Electric-sponsored traditional Christmas tree lighting overlooking the lake at 7 p.m. The event opens with the Boy Scouts of America color guard and performances by Kim Hall’s School of Dance, Music Showcase, Lennard’s Academy of Dance, Tampa Family Theater, Brandon Ballet, Brandon Academy and the “Ambassadors” of Bloomingdale High School. During the Christmas tree lighting,

Volunteer Pat Worthington at her Santa station where she shows children how to make a gingerbread house holiday picture frame.

LOCAL » FOCUS

Melissa Snively of State Farm displays perfect form in Pumpkin Chunkin.

PUNKIN CHUNKIN A FAMILY FRIENDLY FALL FEST T

WRITTEN BY: ALDO TREVINO

he Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, along with Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill, had great weather and attendance to kick off its 1st annual “Punkin Chunkin” an event promoted as “a Family Friendly Fall Fest.” With no time to waste, Halloween pumpkins didn’t stand a chance for all who attended the “chunktivities!

Folks could bring their own carved Jack-oLantern remains or select from a mountain stack of pumpkins in all sizes in order to ”chunk for charity.” This fun-filled fall kickoff was a joint venture of the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, the Winthrop/Bloomingdale Area Business Council and the Fish Hawk/ Lithia/Boyette Area Business Council. Many showed up to show off their strength and receive tickets for a chance to win super prizes from the event’s many sponsors. Local vendors and businesses showcased their wares for sale in booths set up on the property.

founded by Mark J. Rossney on September 14, 2001 as a “thank you” for those who protect us.” Operation Patriot Foundation, Inc. was established for two reasons: to pay tribute to those who risk their lives to protect our property, lives and freedom; and to raise funds to support these heroes in their times of need. For more information on Operation Patriot Foundation, Inc., visit www.operationpatriot. org or the group’s Facebook page. With a bounce house, games and food, friendly families couldn’t ask for anything more. I myself had a great toss with pumpkin guts splashing everywhere and a sigh of relief that my strength showcased without fail. Chris Myers of Ace Heating & Cooling also enjoyed contributing to the cause. He explained, “Letting a little stress out on a rotten pumpkin feels really great.” Not to mention, Punkin Chunkin makes from some great photo ops.

Proceeds benefited the charity known as Operation Patriot Inc., an organization FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON DECEMBER 2012

LOCAL » FOCUS two ways Access Church Lakeland has reached out to those in need. In addition, on November 25, the Lakeland campus surprised its congregation with a new program. “We gave away the equivalent of several weeks’ worth of budget back to our church, asking them to use the money to do something kind for someone else. No strings attached,” said Burns. Those interested in attending the Brandon campus will experience this same giving nature, as the church will reflect the same unique elements as the Lakeland location.

Access Church Lead Pastor Jason Burns is known for “unpacking the Bible and communicating it in a real way,” said Brandon Campus Pastor Ryan Jordan.

ACCESS CHURCH W hen Jason Burns first decided to host a college Bible study in his living room, he had no idea what was in store. Starting out as a group of 15 friends wanting to learn more about God, the Bible study grew rapidly and, one year later, Access Church Lakeland was born.

Since 2008, Access Church has welcomed over 1000 members, and now greets between 400 to 600 people on an average Sunday service at its George Jenkins High School location. And beginning in January, Access Church will touch even more lives when a second Access Church campus launches in Brandon. “Last summer, my wife Lis and I were in Europe, and I was struck by the sheer number of people living in the major cities,” said Burns. “It was there that a dream was initiated to start more life-giving churches all over Tampa and Central Florida. The Tampa Bay area has 4.2 million people, and 3.5 million have no connection to God or church whatsoever. We’re working to create a place where unchurched people actually like to attend.” Preview services were held at Bloomingdale High School on October 7, November 11,

DECEMBER 2012 thefocusmagazine.com

OPENING BRANDON CAMPUS IN JANUARY WRITTEN BY: AMANDA FURMAGE-DECK

and December 2. During these evening gatherings, visitors were able to discover what makes Access Church so distinctive. At the October preview service, for example, approximately 170 visitors heard an inspiring message on discovering the dream God has for their lives and then enjoyed an ice cream party.

while learning about God. However, what makes Access Church unique is its desire to serve the surrounding community. Sending hundreds of shoes to children in Haiti orphanages and packing 5,000 meals for underprivileged children through the Feeding Children Everywhere organization are just

“People can experience exactly what we’ve created in Lakeland,” said Burns. “A lifegiving church that connects with people in every stage of life; a church where kids love attending and learning about God; a place with great music loud enough for you to sing at the top of your lungs without worrying about the person sitting next to you hearing you; a place where the messages are actually helpful—and fun; a place where generosity is embraced; a place where you can invite unchurched friends without worrying about freaking them out.” The grand opening for Access Church Brandon Campus will be Sunday, January 13 at 10:30 a.m. in the Bloomingdale High School auditorium. “We’ve got fully equipped programs for kids, and nurseries for babies. Your whole family will love the life-giving church experience,” said Burns.

However, according to Burns, the best part of the night was being able to form new relationships: “The goal is to get people to stick around and talk. So many people live their lives completely disconnected. At the first preview service in October, people stayed around for around an hour, just talking and getting to know each other. It was such a fun night.” Brandon Campus Pastor Ryan Jordan agrees that apart from leading people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ, the main goal is to build community: “Honestly, I have never seen such a life-giving church like Access. I’ve always been so impressed at their fresh approach to bring hope to people. They celebrate life change.” Like most churches, Access Church Brandon Campus will offer small groups where adults, teens, and children can form new friendships

“We work really hard to create environments where kids love coming to church,” said Access Church Lead Pastor Jason Burns. “We want kids waking their parents up on Sundays excited about it!”

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Interview by: Amanda Furmage-Deck Photos by: Anthony Sassano

Whether the loss of a job or the loss of a home, unexpected life events occur to individuals from all walks of life. In order to ease the burden associated with these unfortunate circumstances, the Emergency Care Help Organization of the greater Brandon area was founded in 1987 to provide immediate relief in the forms of food, clothing, and household items to residents in need, free of charge. Since its inception, ECHO has aided over 109,000 individuals with the supplies necessary for daily life. FOCUS Magazine interviewed ECHO Executive Director Stacey Efaw to learn more about her giving volunteer organization.

STACEY EFAW EXECTIVE DIRECTOR

SHARMAINE BURR CLIENT CENTER MANAGER

Stacey Efaw

Executive Director 12

JONI DAMICO CENTER DIRECTOR

FOCUS Magazine: What kind of items and services does ECHO offer to those in need, and about how many people do you serve each month? Stacey Efaw: ECHO has a client center that provides basic social services such as an access station to apply for food stamps, Medicaid, cash assistance, Healthy Kids enrollment and a job board, and also referrals to other services in the community. ECHO provides basic needs such as food, clothing, personal hygiene items and household items. We help around 1,000 people per month, and usually half of them are children. We have started a healthy living course that meets once a week. Participants of the class receive food and clothing. In January, we hope to add free legal help, a basic computer class and back-towork assistance.

DECEMBER 2012 thefocusmagazine.com

VOLUNTEERS

FOCUS: Describe your educational and career background and how that experience helps you lead the organization. SE: I have a bachelor’s degree in business management and a MBA in business management from USF. I have about 20 years of management experience. Before I worked for ECHO, I was in the retail and computer training businesses. FOCUS: How did you get your start at ECHO? SE: I began running the front desk, and as the organization grew, my position and responsibilities grew too. FOCUS: Describe your duties as executive director. SE: I oversee staff and volunteers, community relations, and fundraising. FOCUS: What are some special events you do throughout the year to raise awareness and/or reach out to the community? SE: We have our Children’s Fashion Show every October. This upcoming year we will have a “Run for Hope” 5K on March 23, and we are planning a new event for the spring called “Hunger Bowls.” We hold bi-monthly charity thrift sales and two designer trunk shows per year.

FOCUS: Do you recall any specific moments that stick out to you since you’ve been director at ECHO? SE: I remember when a social worker brought in a lady with her daughter. They had not eaten in two days. That was when I realized hunger is a reality in our community. It made me sad that such a wealthy country would have citizens that are hungry.

FOCUS: What is the best part of your job? SE: The best part of my job is helping people in need and meeting lots of wonderful, giving people in the community. FOCUS: What do you enjoy outside of work? SE: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I like to run, bike, and spend time at the beach. FOCUS: How do you balance work and family life? SE: When you have a job that you are passionate about, it is easy to work a lot of hours because it doesn’t seem like work, but I received very good advice early on. A good mentor told me to not neglect my own children by spending all my time taking care of others. I try hard not to take on other projects and commitments. I also try to involve my girls in as many of the ECHO events I can. I think it is important for them to be involved, and then I can spend time with them. My older daughter has been doing a lot of her community service hours at ECHO, and my younger one is involved in our fashion show. FOCUS: How can people get involved with ECHO, whether through volunteer efforts or donations? SE: We are easy to help because you can give your time, money, or items such as food and clothing. Our volunteer openings are on our website: www.echofl.org. We also use social media regularly to let our supporters know what is going on. Our Twitter handle is @ECHOBrandon and our Facebook page can be found at www.facebook.com/ ECHOBrandon.

FOCUS: How is ECHO preparing for the holiday season? SE: We are having a holiday tent this year. We are also asking a lot of companies and schools to do food and toy drives for us. FOCUS: ECHO is partnering with greater Brandon churches and several area businesses and organizations for the holiday tent outreach. Get involved by visiting the tent in front of First Baptist Church Brandon on Parsons Ave. until Monday, December 24 to donate items for those in need. Canned cranberries, canned fruit, canned yams, sweet potatoes, boxed potatoes, gravy, boxed Jell-O and pudding, canned vegetables, stuffing, boxes of Jiffy corn bread, and toys for all ages will be accepted. The tent will be open Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m to noon, and on Dec. 24 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thank you to Stacey Efaw, ECHO staff members and volunteers, and the generous donors committed to helping the residents of this wonderful community. We encourage you to get out and lend a hand this holiday season, whether through donations or volunteer efforts. Make this a great Christmas for someone in need.

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BUSINESS » BUSINESS PROFILE

It’s this commitment to customer service that sets Tony D’s Garage Doors apart from the competition.

few years ago, Scott and Lisa Perry were offered the opportunity of a lifetime. Tony DeFrancesco was considering selling his business, Tony D’s Garage Doors.

“With other companies, you’ll get a different service tech every time you need a repair,” said Lisa. “With us, it’s always Scott or Tony, which makes it nice for us and our customers because we get to know them.”

“Scott was working in a corporate job and wanted to spend more time with the family,” said Lisa. “We knew the only way that was possible was if we had our own business.” After spending a few days participating on service calls and observing what DeFrancesco did on a daily basis, the Perry’s decided the garage door business was perfect for their family, purchasing Tony D’s Garage Doors in February 2011. “It’s been the best decision we’ve ever made,” said Lisa, Tony D’s Garage Doors owner and office manager. Today, Tony D’s Garage Doors still offers countless garage-related services, from opener and door repair, to the installation of new springs, doors, and openers. The business also sells new and gently used remotes and gives free estimates on sales and repairs. However, the most significant service this family owned and operated company offers is loyalty to the customer.

It’s apparent not much has changed at Tony D’s Garage Doors since Lisa and Scott took over the day-to-day operations. DeFrancesco is still highly involved in service calls, and the company is still dedicated to the vision he created years ago—to provide excellent service with fair and honest prices. In addition, Tony D’s Garage Doors continues to make a difference in the greater community, donating time and monetary donations to St. Clement Catholic Church, the Florida Boxer Rescue, and the National Breast Cancer Foundation. In fact, throughout October, the business honored Breast Cancer Awareness month. “We donated 15 percent of our profits for the entire month of October to the National Breast Cancer Foundation,” said Lisa.

“The best part of my job is helping people in their time of need,” said Scott, owner and serviceman. “Sometimes I’ve had to go out late at night or early in the morning to help someone get out of their garage, but I go because it’s important to me that our customers are well taken care of.”

Also, if you would like to discover more about Tony DeFrancesco’s new business venture, Papa Tony’s Catering, please call the Tony D’s Garage Door office and Lisa will put you in contact with him.

TONY D. GARAGE DOORS Tony D’s Garage Doors WRITTEN BY: AMANDA FURMAGE-DECK

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DECEMBER 2012 thefocusmagazine.com

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Lisa also believes it’s her company’s duty to provide exceptional, personal service: “In some situations, I’m able to troubleshoot with the customer over the phone. This saves them time and money. If I’m still not able to help, then I try to get them in the schedule that day or as early as possible.”

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SPORTS » FISHHAWK PIZZERIA AND BLOOMINGDALE PIZZA SPORTS TEAM OF THE MONTH

Pictured L to R: Coach Bateman, senior Annie Barrett, freshman Kali Clemmer, senior Lisa Kauffman, junior Stacy Weaver, senior Julie Roggeman, sophomore Abby Wingfield, senior Kendall Hayes, and Coach Beach Photo by Jennifer Beach

BLOOMINGDALE HIGH SCHOOL O ver the past couple of years, high school cross country teams have really captured my interest, as the endurance these young runners possess really impresses me. Just going to the meets, anyone can see the determination and willpower each athlete has deep inside to reach their own goal—not to mention the healthy lifestyle one must maintain in order to get the job done. One local group that most definitely stood out

DECEMBER 2012 thefocusmagazine.com

this season is the Bloomingdale High School girls cross country team. They have the focus and drive necessary to accomplish their goals and worked hard all season, improving with each meet. Setting their own personal goals, yet supporting each other is what sets this team apart from its competition. This year’s Bloomingdale High School squad was led by four seniors, whose ultimate goal was to compete in the state championships. After beating some outstanding local teams in the regional meet held in Sarasota, they

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY WRITTEN BY: DEANA GARRISON

accomplished their goal by advancing to the state championships in Tallahassee, where they turned some heads by representing their school with much dignity and grace. Head coach Jennifer Beach not only shows great pride in her girls for all their efforts and accomplishments at the meets, but she also respects them for their many endeavors outside of running. The girls are not only athletically-driven, but also academicallymotivated. Each runner takes AP and honors

level courses, which involves extra work and dedication. Carrying the load of cross country with student government, orchestra, ladies choir, and other clubs and organizations, they seem to balance it all quite nicely. “I am proud of them for the outstanding example they set for female athletes at Bloomingdale High School. We are lucky to have such amazing young ladies represent us and wear our uniform,” Beach stated.

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MassageEnvy.com Franchises Available · Convenient Hours Open 7 Days: M-F 8-10, Sat 8-8, Sun 10-8 *All 3 gift cards must be purchased in the same transaction and equal or exceed $180 to receive the complimentary 1-hour massage session gift card. Offer is valid through December 31, 2012. Offer not valid online or for previous purchases. Cannot be combined with other offers. See clinic for details. Other rules may apply. Rates and services may vary by location. 2012 Massage Envy Franchising, LLC MM#25164

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FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON DECEMBER 2012

EXTRA » BRANDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BRANDON CHAMBER BUSINESS BRIEFING JOINT BUSINESS AFTER HOURS MIXER AT THE STRAZ CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

“RISING RENTS PRESS MORE AMERICANS TO MAKE A BIG DECISION.

50% of Americans recently surveyed say they expect home rental prices to rise in the next year, and it’s making them lean more toward home ownership, according to the Fannie Mae October National Housing Survey.” Rental price expectations continue to rise and are much higher than home price expectations, according to Fannie Mae. More Americans say that with rising rents, home ownership is looking like a better option. 72% of those surveyed say that now is a good time to purchase a home. 18% say it’s a good time to sell. Source:

Fannie Mae

Lynn Friday,

Broker-Owner 813-731-9362 lynn.friday@ mysistersrealestate.com

Carol Givens,

REALTOR-Partner 813-695-3166 carol.givens@ mysistersrealestate.com

Michele Almand,

REALTOR 813-833-4370 michele.almand@ mysistersrealestate.com

Tracey Hernandez,

REALTOR 813-352-7079 traceymhernandez@gmail.com

Could this be right time for you to purchase a home? Call, or email, and we will be happy to answer your questions. **Home warranty provided to new buyers at time of closing.

Thinking of selling?

** ** Call Call us us for for aa free, free, no no obligation, obligation, market market & & home home analysis. analysis.

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM ALL OF US AT SISTERS REAL ESTATE SERVICES Oh Oh Come Come Let Let Us Us Adore Adore Him…. Him….

SISTERS REAL ESTATE SERVICES 138 E. Bloomingdale Avenue Brandon, Florida 33511 813-731-9362 20

DECEMBER 2012 thefocusmagazine.com

The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce invites you and your staff to its annual Joint Business After Hours Mixer with local Chambers of Commerce and community organizations. Please join us at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts (1010 North W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa) for this holiday happy hour and networking with area professionals. The event will take place Monday, December 3, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and is FREE for chamber members, RSVP required. The cost for guests and non-members is $15. Complimentary drinks and hors d’oeuvres will be provided. Participating partners include The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, The Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce, Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce, Greater Temple Terrace Chamber of Commerce, North Tampa Chamber of Commerce, Carrollwood Area Business Association, Westshore Alliance, Emerge Tampa Bay, and Tampa Bay & Company. For more information please contact Vicki McIntosh, vmcintosh@brandonchamber.com or call 813-689-1221. Register for events at www.brandonchamber.com.

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 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Chamber. For more information, or to schedule an appointment please call (813) 689-1221. FREE Working Smarter Workshops led by counselors of the Hillsborough County Small Business Information Center. “Tax Awareness and Your Business” will be held on Tuesday, December 11 from 9 to 11 a.m. This workshop provides an overview of business taxes, including employment taxes, business deductions, record keeping and electronic filing. For more information or to register please contact Vicki McIntosh at vmcintosh@ brandonchamber.com or 813-689-1221, ext. 8821.

DECEMBER NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

Business After Hours – Monday, December 3 at 5:30 p.m., hosted by Straz Center for the Performing Arts (1010 North W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa) Membership Holiday Breakfast sponsored by Sam’s – Thursday, December 6 at 8 a.m., hosted by The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce (330 Pauls Dr., 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 Green Iguana (6264 Winthrop Town Centre Ave., Riverview) on Thursday, January 3 at 5:30 p.m. for a networking social. This event is FREE for YP members and $5 for guests. Can’t make the social? Come join us for a “Straight Up” Networking Luncheon on Wednesday, January 9 at 11:45 a.m. at Buca di Beppo (11105 Causeway Blvd., Brandon). For more information on YP Brandon or its events please contact Vicki McIntosh at 813-689-1221, ext. 8836 or vmcintosh@ brandonchamber.com.

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS “90 Day Challenge” Divine Body Now 1st Care Medical Urgent Care Center All-In Printing, Inc. Bayada Home Health Care Brightway Insurance Camping World of Tampa Century 21 Shaw Realty/Shelly Drost Dr. Robert Sujansky, Ed.D., NCSP Econo Auto Rentals Fish Financial Services Guardian Auto Glass Insurance & Financial Advisors Mkg., Inc. Ken’s Well Drilling & Pump Services Kiddie Academy Rev1 Power Services The Loft Hair & Nail Lounge Title Boxing Club Wok Chi USA, LLC

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON DECEMBER 2012

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TheRackRestaurant.com | Mon. - Fri. 4pm-3am | Sat. - Sun. 12pm-3am 22

DECEMBER 2012 thefocusmagazine.com

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON DECEMBER 2012

EXTRA » AL REUCHEL Fifth, I would ban the words: flip-flop. I hate those words because changing your mind about an issue should not be considered a fault. Only an idiot stands in the middle of a road and waits for a car to hit him because he told somebody last week he wasn’t going to move. I want a President who can change his mind if someone offers a better argument, or a better solution to a problem, which is something our forefathers understood so clearly when they had to compromise on how the states would be represented in new government. Sixth, I might want to rethink the Electoral College. Hear me out. What happened this year is that so much emphasis was put on certain swing states, like Florida, I can’t help but think a lot of folks felt left out of the process. The game plan for both sides was to win the electoral race and not worry about the popular vote. To me this focus is very troubling in a nation where every vote is supposed to count, expect when it doesn’t in the Electoral College. Seventh, I would institute some kind of universal fact checking organization to oversee all the TV, print and radio ads that spent more time twisting the truth then telling it. Again, I don’t know how to make that happen and most of my journalism buddies think I’ve totally trashed the freedom of speech part of our Constitution.

IF I WERE KING! T he election is over. We have a President. I don’t know who it is as of this writing but I’m not waiting for him to institute changes in the way we elect the President in this country. If I were King for a day, here are some of the changes I would make in the way we elect our Commander-in-Chief. First, I would limit the length of campaigning, so we don’t all want to shoot ourselves. This election season was just plain painful. Too many of us got to the

DECEMBER 2012 thefocusmagazine.com

THANK HEAVEN I’M NOT! WRITTEN BY: AL RUECHEL

point we just wanted it over and didn’t care last time around. The candidates are forced who won. I would limit campaigning to no to concentrate more on how they move, or more than one year, including the primaries. their body language, or did they remember the name of the person asking the question. Second, I would put a cap on spending for The new normal, as it’s sometimes called, is the final election. This season the candidates all about picking apart the candidate based will have spent in excess of 2-billion dollars on looks, quirks and zingers, and not on to tell us how bad the other guy is and how content. the other guy wants to kills us either by starting another war or putting our fate in Fourth, I would get rid of the super PACs. the hands of a medical review board that Those are the political action committees will deny us the medical care we need. that put out the ridiculous ads which seem to focus on fear rather than fact. I don’t Third, I would scrap the town hall format in want one person to have more free speech the debate. It turned into such a show this rights simply because he can buy 20,000 commercials on TV and I can’t.

Eighth, I would institute national election standards for all 50 states and some kind of national ID card. It’s crazy that some states don’t report those provisional ballots until 10 days after the election. When it’s a close race time does matter. I would require the same voting procedures in all states instead of touch screens here, marked ballots there, an “x” on a napkin, you catch my drift. And finally, I would come up with a universal voting period that doesn’t last a trillion days. Voting in my kingdom would take place over the weekend, not in the middle of the week. There is no evidence that adding a day or two here or there increases voting turn out by more than a few points. And contrary to many party leaders, making voting easy was never a requirement of our forefathers. Voting should cost us something. Voting has a value. Voting should be something we all treat as important as breathing, eating, sleeping. You don’t vote, you don’t have a voice in my kingdom. Thus it is spoken, so shall it be!

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON DECEMBER 2012

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

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 4

• Sincerely Santa 6:00 p.m to 8:00 p.m. 459 Brandon Town Center For more information: Vicki McIntosh vmcintosh@brandonchamber.com Phone: 813-689-1221 ext 8836 Fax: 813-689-9440

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6

• The Joshua Generation 2012 Winter Showcase 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Christ Community Church The Joshua Generation Musical Theater Discipleship and Production Company proudly presents our Winter Showcase in which you will enjoy dances of all styles, dramatic skits, vocal pieces and Bible passages staged creatively. Our group is made up of 40+ homeschooled children and youth who use their God-given gifts to glorify and honor God. It is our purpose to bring back purity, modesty and integrity to entertainment! Tickets: $5 1310 John Moore Rd For more information: 813-928-0905 • 2012 Coffee Club Holiday Breakfast 8:00 a.m to 9:30 a.m. 330 Pauls Drive, Suite 100 For more information: Vicki McIntosh vmcintosh@brandonchamber.com Phone: 813-689-1221 ext 8836 Fax: 813-689-9440

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8

• Christmas Festival Presented by: Music Showcase 10:00 a.m. Join us for food, fun, music, kids activities. shopping vendors with clothes, jewelry, make-up, crafts, bounce house and Santa. For more information: 813-685-5998 • Miracle on 34th Street Presented by: Valrico Village Players Tickets $10 506 5th St, Valrico, FL For more information: 813-643-8292

DECEMBER 2012 thefocusmagazine.com

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 24 TO DECEMBER 30

• Nights of Shimmering Lights 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. $20 per car Thursday through Sunday until December 17 then nightly Located at the Hillsborough County Fair Grounds For more information: 813-389-6858

MONDAY, DECEMBER 10

• Joy to the World Celebrating Christmas Luncheon 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. A non-denominational luncheon for ladies. Dancing by Encore of Brandon School of Dance with singing by Dough and Debra Crawley and speak Gaye Martin. Tickets: $14 2501 Bell Shoals Road For more information: 813-740-0098

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15

• Tampa Bay Jingle Bell Run/Walk 8:00 a.m. Jingle Bell Run/Walk® is a fun and festive way to kick off your holidays by helping others! The Tampa Bay Jingle Bell is on Saturday, December 15th at Hillsborough Community College-Dale Mabry Campus. Check-in begins at 7:30 am and the run/ walk starts at 9 am. This family-friendly, holiday-themed event features a 5k or 1 mile route, a holiday costume contest, kid’s activities and Santa chase, food, entertainment, beer and mimosas after the run (with proper ID), and all participants receive an official long-sleeve Entry Fee: $25.00 For more information: 813-968-7000, website: jbrtampa.kintera.org

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20 • Holiday Charity Ball Presented by The Way 2 Dance 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Tickets: $35 Brandon Community joins with the U. S.

Marines ‘Toys for Tots’ annual Christmas campaign to put a toy under every child’s tree. Join us and dance the night away, enjoy wonderful food, cash bar and surprise give always! For more information: 813-866-4788 email: theway2dance@gmail.com website: www.theway2dance.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 28

• Country Gospel Music at the Farm The Weaver Believer Family

6:30 p.m. Come early to assure yourself a seat or bring your own chairs Free 7818 Lithia, Pinecrest Road, Lithia, FL For more information: 813-967-3046 or visit the website at www.TheFarmUSA.com

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BRANDON FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON DECEMBER 2012

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

STOWERS funeral home 401 West Brandon Blvd. Brandon, Fl 33511 • 813-689-1211 • www.Stowersfh.com

Herb S. Popple Funeral Director, General Manager 28

DECEMBER 2012 thefocusmagazine.com

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 Beneﬁts designed to provide a higher level of funeral care before, during, and after the service, all backed by a 100% Service Guarantee.