FOCUS Brandon 06-06 by Floyd Publications

february 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

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CONTENTS | February 2013 | Volume 6 Issue 6

06-08 Local 10 Feature:

Meet The Brandon Minority Business Owners

13 Spotlight:

Author Debora Coty

16 Business Profile 18 Sports Team Of The Month

20 Athlete of the Month 22 Fishhawk Review 24 Brandon Chamber 26 Dining Profile 30 Event Calendar

onthecover Photo by Anthony Sassano

Pictured L to R Front Row: Yjean Ligon, Leonard Mardis, LeShunda Mangum Back Row: RIchard Ligon, Scott Robinson, Dwight A. McDonald, Jerald Mangum

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Letter From The Publisher One of the neatest things about living in eastern Hillsborough County is the people you meet who have invested years of time and energy into making our local communities better places to live. They have such incredible stories to tell. Our staff had the pleasure this month of attending events, visiting business and civic groups, gathering story info, and dining out in some of the coolest restaurants around. And the stories are everywhere. What continually impresses us, more than words can express, is how much folks in this area care about their neighbors and neighborhoods, their customers, their peers and even strangers theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve just met. Needless to say, knowing and interacting with these worthy folks has given me pause to reflect about the value of serving one another in the town where we live. What if every person could find their niche in which to help others, whether through business, school, church, or civic organization? How much better could life in eastern Hillsborough County become? We hope you will enjoy this issue and always feel free to submit your ideas for future issues.

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

Office Manager Jared Guyer jguyer@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.

Copy Editor Linda Floyd editorial@floydpublications.com Sales Aldo Trevino | Joseph Roberts | Cindy Cutting Jennifer Chamberlain | Kayla Sherrard

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.

Art Director Anthony Sassano

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

Photographers NamPhan Photography

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.

Production Intern Abby Born Distribution Tony DeVane | Belva DeVane

FOCUS Magazine brandon february 2013

LOCAL » Focus Referring to advice gleaned from Anne Lamott’s book, Bird by Bird, Heckenbach says, “You have to allow yourself a break now and then.” Lamott suggests writer’s block isn’t really being blocked so much as being ‘empty.’ “You have to break from writing and fill up on life now and then. If you’re meant to write, life will inspire story.” The Valrico author reflects how writing groups like Brandon Christian Writers and Word Weavers have been a great support network. Comments from experienced writers encouraged and validated her writing. “At BCW I met an editor who offered to help me with a nonfiction piece. Her advice got my story to publishable level. That story has now sold to nearly ten different magazines!” Jamming writing into an already full life presents challenges. Number one is “the chaos surrounding finding quiet time to write. I need order. I’ve got kids to homeschool, dogs to let in and out (and in and out), the TV blaring, the “Mommy, Mommy, Mommy,” and running a household.”

Award-winning author Kat Heckenbach was pleased to be a panelist / presenter at the Necronomicon 2012 science fiction and fantasy convention.

Seeking Unseen Written by: Kathryn Howard

Local author Kat Heckenbach has an intriguing new novel for YA fantasy fans. Seeking Unseen, book two in the Finding Angel trilogy, promises to transport readers into a world they’ll never forget. For those who missed the award-winning, Finding Angel, it is about “a girl who finds out she’s from a hidden magical island on the other side of the globe. She returns and discovers a prophecy that she’s convinced involves her—and she becomes determined to solve the mystery that’s springing up around her.”

Kat Heckenbach Writes Second Young Adult Fantasy Novel

In Seeking Unseen, Angel mistakenly thinks things have settled down “so she decides to finally make the wish she was given at the end of Finding Angel. While following through on that—and returning for her little foster brother, whom she believes is in danger— Angel ends up reuniting with an old friend named Melinda. And Melinda…well, let’s say she has a way of taking over things. It becomes her story, her struggle to fit in and find real magic inside herself.” Kat, an Eastbay High School and University of Tampa graduate, began her inspiring

Kat’s solution? Know yourself. “I work much better if I have blocks of time to do things and tackle one project at a time. Doing a little of this and a little of that doesn’t generally work well for me.”

evolution as a writer in 2007. “I never thought of myself as a writer before I actually sat down and started writing. I knew I was creative, but never fancied myself a storyteller. But I could not push away the feeling I get when reading— the desire to create a story and world that would lose other readers the way I got lost in the books I read. If you feel it that strongly, you just have to do it.” Kat’s advice to aspiring writers? “It’s a lot of work. You’re going to get frustrated and discouraged. But the drive is stronger and will push you through.”

Final words from a local whose fame is rising fast: “The biggest thing is persistence—keep writing and writing, making connections with everyone possible, looking online for magazines and anthologies with open calls for the types of stories you write.” To follow Kat, go to www.katheckenbach. com or to order books, www.findingangel.com.

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february 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

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LOCAL » Focus Here she pauses and takes a deep breath. Continuing, she explains what meditation really is. “Meditation is not an eastern mystic philosophy. Meditation played a role in the ancient Hebrew culture. It started as the true way of relating to God and meditating in the presence of God.” Yeager describes how she teaches clients to practice meditation. “I have them create their own dream space by inviting God to be present with them in this place that is safe. I have them take a deep breath in, breathing in the presence of God, breathing in the truth of God’s Word and breathing out all the negative, anxious thoughts into God’s hands. I tell them to visualize giving God all the anxious thoughts.” Physically she sees anxiety as a medical issue and not indicative of a lack of faith in God. She explains, “People with anxiety have lower levels of serotonin and dopamine in their brains.” Yeager uses diet, exercise and changing thought patterns as well as humor to help change the brain chemistry. “Laughter changes the brain chemistry.” This is an especially helpful Biblical principle and one many use to alleviate stress or fear. ‘A merry heart does good like medicine,’ is actually a wonderful physiological truth the Lord has given us,” she adds. “Spiritually speaking,” Yeager notes, “the Lord is very understanding about where we are at.”

Tina Yeager, LMHC, helps people cope with anxiety to improve their quality of life by offering them hope and peace.

Overcoming Fear & Anxiety Tina Yeager has Answers T Written by: Melissa Harrison

ina Yeager has a clear compassion and desire to help people suffering from anxiety disorders.

The state licensed mental health counselor manages a private therapy and coaching practice in Brandon, Florida. Yeager explains her motivation: “Helping people cope with anxiety can give them a chance to have better quality of life, and offer them hope and peace. People with anxiety don’t see tomorrow with hope. They see it as a place of fear and uncertainty. I look at that with compassion and grace as the Lord looks at us.”

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As a result of her faith, Yeager knows that “using truth from Scripture to replace their anxious thoughts with positive truths is an important part” of her counseling method. She has worked in the mental health field for 12 years.

Yeager recalls experiencing anxiety herself during a brief time when she suffered from a mild form of clinical depression. Ultimately, this created increased awareness and a heart for others who struggle with fear. After earning her Master’s degree from the University of Central Florida, Yeager earned

the state licensed LMHC designation in 2005. As to the diagnosis process, she often notes specific body language. “People who come in are usually aware they have anxiety,” she reports, adding “You can sometimes tell by the person’s body language when they first walk in that they suffer from anxiety.” Treatment can involve a number of approaches, depending on the client. “I often use their own interests to help them cope. Also I’ll ask them to do some relaxation techniques like breathing exercises and meditation.”

Leaning forward, Tina earnestly explained how she often tells people the story of Elijah. He had just defeated the prophets of Baal and had outrun King Ahab’s chariot. He had just proven that the Lord is God. He was exhausted when he collapsed under the broom tree with anxious, illogical thoughts. “God did not come to him and ask him why he didn’t believe in Him or tell him to pull himself together!” Tina continued. “Rather, God encouraged Elijah with the thought: ‘Rest. I will take care of you when you are in this low place.’” “And,” she said, “I believe that is how the Lord comes to us when we are in a low place. It is very important to remind people not to feel condemned.” Yeager offers hope and help through private counseling sessions in her Brandon office at 732 W. Lumsden. To learn more, visit http:// wholecounseling.com or phone 813-5057676 to schedule an appointment.

FOCUS Magazine brandon february 2013

Meet The

A Touch of Wellness owner: Scott Robinson

Scott Robinson is the president/CEO of A Touch of Wellness. A Touch of Wellness is a massage and rehabilitation clinic located in Brandon. Scott is also a licensed massage therapist and has been practicing since 2005. Scott enjoys his position as co-chair of Young Professionals of Brandon, and being part of Leadership Brandon class of 2013. A Touch of Wellness has received several accolades in the Brandon community, including being a Small Business of the Year Finalist.

Leonardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dance Academy owner: Leonard Mardis

After 21 years with the U.S. Army, Leonard Mardis opened Leonardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Academy of Dance & Centre for the Arts (LAD). 7 years later, he celebrates with 2 studios, and over 150 students. Leonard is also the director of United Nations of Dance, an international musical performance troupe consisting of 100 members from 23 nations promoting unity and cultural awareness though theatrical arts. September 2012, Leonard was accepted into the Doctoral Program for International Business at Argosy University.

International Realty Plus owner: Dwight A. Mcdonald

International Realty Plus-TB specializes in marketing residential real estate. Our current focus is on short sales and pre-foreclosures. I have helped clients avoid HOA and lender foreclosures with sale dates set even while having IRS and UCC tax liens in place. As a Broker Owner I have over 18 years of marketing, managing and negotiating experience in residential real estate. You can depend on International Realty Plus-TB for your buying/selling, property management and foreclosure prevention needs.

Amazingly Creative Events owners: YJean and Richard Ligon

Amazingly Creative Events (ACE) is owned by YJean and Richard Ligon. This event company was born out of YJean’s passion for creating over-the-top events from coordination to décor. Richard, a retired 27 year military veteran, supports his wife as the logistics manager. Together they offer personalized event décor and/or coordination services to their clients. With Amazingly Creative Events your event will be a memorable experience for your guests while bringing your vision to life.

Immaculate Janitorial Service owners: LeShunda and Jerald Mangum

Immaculate Janitorial Service has been living their motto, “If it’s dirty, we will make it pretty”. The family owned business provides services including commercial janitorial services, apartment move-outs, carpet and upholstery, tile and grout cleaning and handyman. Immaculate Janitorial Services is located in Brandon and provides service for Hillsborough, Polk and Pinellas counties. Contact the “Queen of Clean” LeShunda Mangum or Jerald Mangum “Junebug” at 813-506-4156 or visit www.wecleantampabay.com.

Divine Body Now owner: Tanya Sheperd

I started on the 90 day challenge as a customer with a goal to lose weight. I had no idea it would propel me into entering a bikini competition. Initially I was unsure because I had considered other options and never followed through. With each challenge I lost weight. First challenge I lost five pounds, then ten pounds, then fifteen pounds, then eighteen pounds! Now I’m training for my first bikini challenge promoting the challenge!

Complete Essence owner: Donna Sharpe

Donna Sharpe, certified fitness instructor and massage therapist, believes massage is not just a career--it is a spiritual journey. Donna uses the energetic gift in her hands and the incredible yoga retreat to bring contentment and peace to everyone. Donna is owner of Brandon’s Complete Essence Massage and Spa, a full service spa specializing in relaxing Swedish and therapeutic massage and other natural treatments.

Serving the

Tampa Bay Area Since 1995

february 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

Because Debora Coty mentions chocolate in many of her encouraging books for woman, a trip to Neumeister’s Candy Shoppe in Plant City was a recent must.

Award-Winning Author Interview by Cheryl Johnston

Debora Coty’s passion is sharing with women of all ages her offbeat blend of humor and hope. And as a result of her nine-year writing journey the Seffner wife, mother and new grandmother now enjoys recognition as a humorist, columnist, speaker, writing workshop instructor and award-winning author of over 120 internationally published articles, twelve inspirational books and a contributor to numerous anthologies. Her book Too Blessed to Be Stressed recently received the 2012 Mom’s Choice award. The native Floridian taught piano for 20 years and for more than three decades she has also helped countless people through her orthopedic occupational therapy work.

Readers and aspiring writers will find her encouragement in bookstores and online at www.DeboraCoty.com. Focus: Please tell us a little about yourself, Debbie. Having grown up in the piney woods of north Florida, moving to Tampa to attend the University of South Florida in the mid-‘70s was the big time for me. The first day on campus I met Chuck, and we married three years later. After transferring to the University of Florida and earning my Occupational Therapy degree, we moved to Seffner, where we’ve been nestled happily now for 34 years. Focus: Can you share a background on your writing journey? Writing a book like Catherine Marshall’s Christy (I read it 9 times as a teen) was my girlhood dream. That dream got back-burnered as real life intervened and I pursued a FOCUS Magazine brandon february 2013

science career, married, and then raised two children and an ark full of critters (Don’t ever let anyone tell you rodents were meant to be pets!). Then, one day while sitting in a dentist’s office at age 45, with my youngest chick about to fly the coop, I realized something was missing in my life. There was something I was supposed to be doing … but what? I had no clue. Right there in that waiting room, I prayed, asking Papa God to show me what He had for me yet to do. Then I picked up a magazine and randomly flipped the page to a writing contest ad. The light bulb popped on inside my head. Nearly nine years later, I’ve been completely flabbergasted by the twists Papa has orchestrated in my destiny, with over 120 articles published in international magazines, newspapers and trade journals, a monthly newspaper column, and book #12 debuting in February. Who’d a thunk it? Eph 3:20 has become my life verse: “To Him who is able to do EXCEEDING ABUNDANTLY BEYOND all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to HIM be the glory … forever and ever. Amen!” (Emphasis mine) Focus: How supportive is your family of your writing career? I truly couldn’t have done it without them. My husband Chuck, the long-suffering tech guy who keeps me plugged into cyberworld (a must for today’s authors), oversees my website, maintains my blogs, updates contact lists (my e-newsletter now reaches 3,000 homes) and rescues me from all the computer messes I create. The fodder for much of my material comes from crazy everyday life and my own family experiences (like those in Mom NEEDS Chocolate). They are also quite patient with me during those marathon writing sessions when my office door is barricaded, calls remain unreturned, housework ignored, and dinner nowhere in sight. Better than patient, really … Chuck takes over and makes sure our dog Fenway and I are watered, fed, and bathed at least once a week. Focus: Tell us about your blog, website and the Grace Notes column? In addition to guest-posting on other blogs and writing the “Grace Notes” column for Christian Voice, I maintain two blogs of my own: 1) “Deb’s Blog of Wit and Near-wisdom: Living Life in the Crazy Lane” and 2) Grit for the OysterI’m especially excited that this writing craft blog, based on my book, Grit for the Oyster: 250 Pearls of Wisdom for Aspiring Writers, has won two Reader Views awards. Both blogs are accessible through www.DeboraCoty.com where readers can also sign up for my monthly newsletter. Focus: Do you have a writing room and a writing regimen? Yes, both. The day after my son left for college, his bedroom became my office where photos of family adventures and wonderful memories cover walls and bookshelves. Terrific little notes, clippings, and personally motivating comics also surround the computer desk. It’s a happy place! I’m a ridiculously early riser (5 a.m., sometimes even 4), so I usually attack the keyboard by six and write 3-4 hours or until I have to be somewhere. Like most writers these days, I never quit my day job as an occupational therapist treating orthopedic hand injuries (although I did have to work less as book contracts appeared). Other days I

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hightail it to a court and stoke my tennis junkie habit in two tennis leagues. I’m a huge advocate of afternoon happy naps … probably because I had the audacity to ask Papa God for more hours in the day. Instead He sent me menopause. Now I have the whole stinking night, too! (Be careful what you pray for!) Whenever possible, I lay down to recharge for an hour or two (one is essential, two is bliss). My family is very supportive, too, because if I miss my nappy, ain’t nobody happy. “Smiles to Go Before I Sleep” is a chapter on rest in my Too Blessed to Be Stressed book. Anyhow, I try to get 2-3 more hours of writing in by early evening … that is, unless I’m working against deadline, and then I hole up in my writing cave as long as necessary. Focus: How difficult is it to have your book published and to accomplish the necessary promotion? Getting someone to actually read your material can be difficult. Publishing house editors and agents are swamped with deserving manuscripts, so enticing them to look at yours long enough to consider publication takes persistence and panache. And lots of prayer. Once your book is out, it competes for the eyeballs of the public with thousands of others fresh off the press. With self-publishing becoming even more popular, those numbers are increasing. Yours must somehow stand out and sell. Focus: How much time do you invest into writing, promoting and communicating? For me, novels take longer to write than non-fiction (The Distant Shore - two years writing; another finding a publisher). Each of the three in my current “Take On Life” non-fiction series for Barbour Books has taken about 6 months. To seriously promote each book requires at least 3-4 months, beginning a month before its release. In addition to the publishing house publicist who handles the book releases, I retain a professional freelance publicist because I want a little more individualized attention so my books will make the biggest splash possible. My private publicist, Amy Lathrop of Liftfuse Publicity Group, is an online specialist who focuses the bulk of publicity/marketing in cyberworld, which has proved extremely beneficial with my last four books. Most authors find they can accomplish little else except promotion during the three to four months following book release when they’re traveling for events, speaking to groups, and conducting online or in person radio/TV interviews. You love it, but it’s also exhausting. Focus: What topics can we expect in the not too distant future? I’m really excited about Fear, Faith, and a Fistful of Chocolate, which releases early February (subtitled: Wit and Wisdom for Sidestepping Life’s Worries). Couched in my unique blend of humor and hope, readers will find great practical tips for conquering everyday fears (financial, health, relationships, loss, pain, the unknown, the what-ifs, etc). Each chapter also contains small group discussion questions (“More Pluck, Less Chicken”) and enlightening

conclusions from a survey I conducted of 500 random women. I’ll bet the 10 biggest fears women struggle with most will surprise you as much as they did me! My next project will be a devotional-style book about the unconditionally loving, smiling aspect of Papa God. It’s surprising how many people see Him as a harsh, judgmental dictator who stares down from heaven with his big stick, waiting for us to mess up so He can bust us upside the head. It’s a totally different perspective to see Him as Abba (Hebrew term in the Bible which translates as the intimate form of “Father”) or in modern terms as “Daddy” or “Papa”. The Smiling Christ was actually my agent’s idea. Focus: What made you decide to tap into the chocolate theme? Hey, write what you know, right? I’m a choco-athlete, the step beyond chocoholic. I exercise so I can eat more chocolate. And I’m not alone! I’ve met plenty of others who also cherish the 3 G’s: God, Godiva, and girlfriends. Focus: Have reader reviews, letters or comments impacted you in a profound way? What I enjoy most about writing for women and meeting my readers are the heart-bonds we develop in joining hands and wading through life together. I feel privileged to have received quite a few letters from readers that bless my socks off and reduce me to tears. Honestly, there is nothing – nothing – as soul-fulfilling as knowing that Papa God has used you as His tool for touching the heart and changing the life of someone for His glory. Focus: So, what advice would you offer to aspiring writers? 1. Do your homework; don’t submit anything that hasn’t been thoroughly edited and polished to a gleam. 2. Learn your craft and keep learning; attend writing conferences/retreats; read trade journals like Writers’ Digest and Writers’ Journal; and join a faith-based critique group like the Brandon branch of American Christian Writers (I’ve been part of this wonderful group for five years. Google “Brandon Christian Writers” and join us the fourth Thursday monthly!). 3. If the Lord has called you to a ministry in print, trust Him even while you’re bogged down in that seemingly endless wasteland every writer encounters called waiting: Literary Limboland … Publication Purgatory …The Manuscript Netherworld. Remember, God is faithful, and if He wills it, He fulfills it. Against all odds.

Save $2.00 on Adult & $1.00 on Youth General Admission Tickets at Sweetbay Supermarkets! FEB. 28 - MAR. 10, 2013 • PLANT CITY, FLORIDA

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

Artists Appearing on the Soundstage: Order: www.flstrawberryfestival.com or 813-754-1996

Thu. Feb. 28 10:30 Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra FREE Thu. Feb. 28 3:30 Chubby Checker $15 & $20 Thu. Feb. 28 7:30 FOREIGNER $25 Fri. Fri.

Mar. 1 Mar. 1

3:30 7:30

Gene Watson Casting Crowns

$15 & $20 $20 & $25

Sat. Mar. 2 Sat. Mar. 2 Sat. Mar. 2

1:00 3:30 7:30

Caroline Kole Gloriana Justin Moore

FREE $15 & $20 $15 & $20

Sun. Mar. 3 Sun. Mar. 3

3:30 7:30

Randy Houser Alan Jackson

$15 & $20 $45

Mon. Mar. 4 Mon. Mar. 4

3:30 7:30

Grits & Glamour with Lorrie Morgan/Pam Tillis Dwight Yoakam

$15 & $20 $20 & $25

Tues. Mar. 5 Tues. Mar. 5

3:30 7:30

Bobby Vinton Martina McBride

$15 & $20 $30

Wed. Mar. 6 Wed. Mar. 6

3:30 7:30

Neal McCoy Trace Adkins

$15 & $20 $30

Thu. Thu. Thu.

Mar. 7 10:30 Mar. 7 3:30 Mar. 7 7:30

Steve Hall & the Shotgun Red Show Mel Tillis Brantley Gilbert

FREE $15 & $20 $35

Fri. Fri.

Mar. 8 Mar. 8

3:30 7:30

T.G. Sheppard/Janie Fricke Scotty McCreery

$15 & $20 $25 & $30

Sat. Mar. 9 Sat. Mar. 9

3:30 7:30

Gaither Vocal Band Bret Michaels Get Your Rock On 2013

$20 & $25 $25 & $30

Hunter Hayes Blake Shelton

$15 & $20 $55

Sun. Mar. 10 3:30 Sun. Mar. 10 7:30

BLAKE SHELTON

ALAN JACKSON

BRET MICHAELS

GLORIANA

DWIGHT YOAKAM

MARTINA McBRIDE

Get Your Rock On 2013

TRACE ADKINS

SCOTTY McCREERY

BRANTLEY GILBERT

JUSTIN MOORE

BOBBY VINTON

GENE WATSON

Concert dates and times are subject to change

Free Grandstand Seating at 3:30 & 7:30pm is on a first come, Mobile App. first seated basis.

BELLE CITY MIDWAY HIGHLIGHTS Thu. Feb. 28 Ride-A-Thon - $20 - Noon - 11 pm Fri. Mar. 1 Sweetbay Supermarket Day on the Midway - Noon - 10 pm. Present any “My Essentials” non-perishable item at gate. Get $4 off Fun Pack Ride Coupon Book Moonlight Magic - $20 - 10 pm - 2 am Sat. Mar. 2 Kid’s Day - All Day Free Admission for Kids through High School Sun. Mar. 3 Mountain Dew Family Day - $5 off with Mountain Dew can - Ride all day for $20

Ride-A-Thon - $20 - 10 am - 11 pm Ride-A-Thon - $20 - Noon - 11 pm Ride-A-Thon - $20 - Noon - 11 pm Ride-A-Thon - $20 - Noon - 11 pm Tampa Tribune & TBO.com Day Noon - 10 pm, $2 Off Fun Pack Ride Coupon Book. Get Extra $2 Off same Book with a Tampa Tribune or TBO.com Discount Coupon Moonlight Magic - $20 - 10 pm - 2 am Sun. Mar. 10 Mountain Dew Family Day - $5 off

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with Mountain Dew can - Ride all day for $20

The Midway opens daily at 12 noon

except on Sat., Sun. & Mon., when it opens at 10:00 a.m.

HUNTER HAYES

NEAL McCOY

GAITHER VOCAL BAND

FESTIVAL FAVORITES

• Dennis Lee • Jay Taylor Band • The Sweeney Family Band Country Comedy Revue • Ron Diamond • Kandu Magic Show • World Champion Lumberjills • JUMP! The Ultimate Dog Show • RUNA PACHA “Indian World” • Robinson’s Racing Pigs and Paddling Porkers • Rock-It the Robot

LORRIE MORGAN Grits and Glamour

PAM TILLIS

Grits and Glamour

RANDY HOUSER

CHUBBY CHECKER

FOREIGNER

T.G. SHEPPARD

JANIE FRICKE

MEL TILLIS

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AMERICAN HEROES DAY

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SENIOR CITIZEN’S DAYS FREE CONCERTS Thurs, Feb 28th The Jimmy Sturr Orchestra Thurs, Mar 7th Steve Hall & The Shotgun Red Show Concerts 10:30am

CASTING CROWNS

FOCUS Magazine brandon february 2013

Business » business profile Shepherd is not only ready to motivate clients, but to educate them as well. “We educate people that it’s not just about weight loss and fitness; it’s about developing a healthy lifestyle from the inside out,” said Shepherd. “We tailor-fit our program to fit the stay-at-home mom, the high school or college athlete, the active adult who just wants to improve nutrition, and the person who really wants to make a healthy lifestyle change…The toughest challenge our clients face is just making the decision to get started. We coach our clients to be successful so the only way they don’t succeed is if they don’t get started…Weight loss and being fit starts with having realistic goals, realistic exercise, and realistic expectations. If you chip away daily at a goal, you can accomplish it, and we can support you.”

Outside of work I enjoy taking care of my little princess who is 4 years old (featured above), teaching a 3-5 year old Bible study class, and actively working with the Brandon Chamber of Commerce,” said Tanya Shepherd, owner of Divine Body Now.

Divine Body Now T written By: Amanda furmage-deck

he Body by Vi 90-Day Challenge transformed Tanya Shepherd’s life so significantly that it caused her to make a considerable career change. The former banking professional is now a Body by Vi promoter and owner of Divine Body Now, a lifestyle company passionate about inspiring individuals to design healthy lifestyles one step at a time. “I started as a Body by Vi customer who wanted to lose weight and was looking for a healthy way to lose weight without injections or medications and stumbled on the 90-Day Challenge,” said Shepherd. Body by Vi 90-Day Challenge was created by ViSalus, a multinational company that markets weight management nutritional products, dietary supplements and energy drinks, and is the number one weight loss and fitness platform in North America. In fact, over 1.5 million people joined The Challenge in 2012, and over one million more are projected to join in 2013, making it the fastest growing health movement in the world. The Challenge is powered by ViSalus’ line of Vi-Shape nutritional shake powders.

february 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

Each filling, meal-replacing shake contains a healthy blend of protein, fiber, calcium, digestive enzymes, vitamins, and minerals to help lose weight, build lean muscle, and support active lifestyles. In addition, Body by Vi has compiled five unique challenge kits, each catering to different health goals: the Athletic Performance Fit Kit, the Maximum Weight Loss Transformation Kit, the Condition Your Body Core Kit, the Slim Down Shape Up Kit, and the Get Healthy Balance Kit. “Body by Vi is tailored to you whether your goal is weight loss, training for a marathon, or if you’re just an active person,” said Shepherd. Individuals can also build community by sharing recipes with other fellow challenge participants on the ViSalus Recipe Book Facebook page. Some of the most popular homemade shake creations include Snickers, Peanut Butter Twix, Banana Nut Chocolate Chip Oatmeal, and Butterfinger Protein. Along with the nutritious “shakes that taste like cake,” the Body by Vi 90-Day

Challenge and Tanya Shepherd encourages participants to develop a daily workout routine to accompany their new meal plan. “The best part about working out is you’re constantly challenging the body to stretch and move,” said Shepherd. “The more you work out, the better you feel. It sounds cliché, but it’s very true. The other thing is that as you exercise, you actually become conscious of the food choices you are making, whether dining out, cooking at home, or entertaining friends and family.” Millions of people across the nation have made New Year’s Resolutions centered on weight loss. Yet according to studies conducted by the National Institutes of Health, at least 80 percent of these dieters fail to lose weight while one-third even gain additional weight. Although several factors contribute to failed fitness resolutions, the root of the problem may be bad dietary advice. Too many people try to achieve their goals alone without the help of a motivating and encouraging accountability partner.

Divine Body Now is looking forward to helping individuals in the Brandon area soon. Prospective clients can visitwww. divinebodynow.com for more information on how to begin the Body by Vi 90-Day Challenge and join the millions who have already achieved their weight loss and fitness goals.

FOCUS Magazine brandon february 2013

sports » Fishhawk pizzeria and Bloomingdale Pizza Sports team of the month

When asked what game stands out from the rest, Turner had to say the Varsity Game verses Winter Haven High School. This was an intense game that kept spectators on their feet. Turner replied, “Winter Haven was a 2012 State Semi Finalist and big matchup for us. This game showed us how each player has trust in each other. We had two starters foul out early in the 4th quarter and we had two young sophomores (one JV player) step up and play a huge role to fill that void. Avery Bolton hit a 3 at the buzzer to send the game into overtime and we won the game 6361.” This game showed how this team sticks together as a team to reach a goal. The bond they have is strong and it shows on the court.

Brandon Boys Varsity basketball team works hard for success.

BrandonJ.V. andHigh Varsity Boys School Basketball teams T

Society. He, as well as his team members, proves to be a fine example of hard work and dedication to academics as well as athletic skills.

written By: Deana Garrison

his month, FOCUS Magazine has selected both the J.V. and the Varsity boy’s basketball teams at Brandon High School for the Team of the Month. Both teams have proven to have the drive and skill needed to perform on the court with pride and dedication.

Coach Jamie Turner and Assistant Coach Sredrick Powe are both former graduates of Brandon and work hard in creating a teamwork atmosphere. The two are responsible for guiding these young men not only in skills but in character as well. Senior, Reggie Twiggs, explained, “We play good together. We are like a family.” In fact, Coach Turner stated, “This group of kids are different from the past teams I have coached. These kids stick together in school and outside of school. For example after a Saturday JV Game, players will leave the game and go to the local rec center to play

february 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

more basketball together. One time after an intense conditioning workout, I peeked into the rec center and witnessed the majority of the team there playing more ball once again. Good to see our players out playing with each other. It shows they enjoy hanging out with each other which I think is the reason why we are seeing much success on the court.” It is evident that the players respect their coaches and in turn work together to play their best. With 15-20 hours a week of practice, these Eagles strive for perfection. Their stats prove just that. With a record of 13-5 for Varsity and 7-1 for JV, these teams are truly an inspiration for younger players. Not only do their basketball skills play major importance, but their academic skills are held to a high standard as well. They all work hard to keep good grades. One of their players, Junior Forward, Roderick Davis, holds a 4.9 GPA and is a member of the National Honor

Brandon boys JV basketball team have an outstanding record.

Coach Turner summed it up nicely when he stated, “This is a very unselfish team that continues to play as one unit. Everyone wants to win games; these kids are having fun just being a part of something positive. Their memories 10 years from now will not be the games they won, but all the time they have spent with each other.”

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sports » Athlete of the month

Reggie Twiggs written By: Deana Garrison

ebruary’s Athlete of the month is Brandon High School Senior, Reggie Twiggs. A player known to show his skill on the court, but you won’t ever hear or see him boasting or bragging. Twiggs won’t tell you how much he helps others. With a humbling spirit, if he sees someone struggling with a certain skill, he’ll invite them over to his house for extra practice. He doesn’t like to leave anyone behind. He is a team player and is always ready to lend a helping hand. His mom, Latonya Twiggs, stated, “People are always helping him, so he figures he can help others. He doesn’t ever put a player down. He believes there is always someone better, so you have to continue to work on your own game.” With that motto in mind he is always uplifting others, helping them improve their game and continuing with his goals as well. His coaches have a great respect for him. When asked about Reggie, head coach Jamie Turner stated, “He is a soft spoken, hard-nosed, kid. He will run through the wall for his teammates. He is the type of player I would like on my team for years to come.”

continued playing and played right through Jennings Middle School and currently at Brandon High School. His inspiration comes mostly from his family. His Dad, Reggie Twiggs, Sr., also played basketball in his earlier years. His brother and sister played as well. So, it was only natural that young Reggie follow in their footsteps. His family is very proud of him and is hopeful for his future in basketball. Fellow teammates and friends look up to Reggie and have great respect for him as well. Avery Bolton, teammate and friend replied, “He’s a great team player and leader on the team.” After going to a good friend’s Christmas tournament, Reggie was pumped up even more and stepped up his game even further. With an average of 19.6 points per game in the last month, I am sure his playing days will continue to be a big success in college.

Reggie definitely has what it takes to be a successful basketball player as well as a great friend. We wish him all the best as he takes His experience goes as far back as eight years off to reach higher goals after graduation. old playing for the recreation center. He

february 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

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real estate » fishhawk preview

Fishhawk Preview A written By: Terry L. Chandler

s we enter into February, we would like to wish you a Happy Valentine’s Day! For those who are new to the area, we would like to introduce you to this master planned community that takes the word “Home” to a whole new level. To those of you who live here, you know FishHawk Ranch is an outstanding community with an abundance of events and activities all year. Residents of FishHawk also enjoy the convenience of nearby shopping, restaurants, beaches, golf courses, art galleries, museums and professional sports teams. In 2012 the community continued its tradition of providing multiple annual events and here are a few of the upcoming 2013 events:

Whatever your Real Estate needs for 2013, we welcome the opportunity to assist you, your family, and your friends. • RESIDENTIAL LISTING • RESIDENTIAL PURCHASE • FIRST TIME HOMEBUYERS • NEW CONSTRUCTION • SHORT SALES • RURAL PROPERTIES • VACANT LAND • RELOCATION

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

Michele Almand, REALTOR 813-833-4370 michele.almand@mysistersrealestate.com

Carol Givens, REALTOR 813-695-3166 carol.givens@mysistersrealestate.com

Tracey Hernandez, REALTOR 813-352-7079 traceymhernandez@gmail.com

“Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help”. Ecc. 4:9-10

SISTERS REAL ESTATE SERVICES 138 E. Bloomingdale Avenue Brandon, Florida 33511 813-731-9362 22

february 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

2. Sales will rise by 6-7% and prices rise by 3-4%. 3. Inventory for sale will hit bottom. 4. Higher priced homes begin to sell.

Be sure to mark your calendars for the Fresh Market for the first Sunday in the months of January – May and October – December from 9 am to 2 pm at Park Square.

6. Shadow inventory continues to fall.

The FishHawk community has been growing strong since its groundbreaking and will encompass more than 5,000 homes. The proof of the popularity of this community is with the most recent home statistics: 45 closed sales,

FREE Home Warranty provided to new buyers at time of closing.

1. More Homebuyers and Sellers come back to the market.

The 7th Annual FishHawk Ranch Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, February 9th from 11:30 am – 1:30 pm at Park Square. Get ready to concoct a fabulous Chili for the cook-off !

Get your walking shoes out and dusted off for the 2013 Relay for Life of FishHawk held at Newsome High School in Lithia on March 23-24. (For more information about registering, please visit www.relayforlife.org/fishhawkfl)

Call for a free, no obligation, market & home analysis.

51 pending sales contracts, 62 active listings for sale, and 13 active listings with a contract as of December 31, 2012, according to Tampa MLS. In addition, FishHawk has several new home builders that are continuing to experience growth and are building beautiful homes with great price incentives. A national real estate company’s predictions for 2013 are:

5. Distressed property numbers continue to fall.

7. Short Sale closings will rise to a peak. 8. Record low mortgage rates rise slightly by year-end. 9. Lending remains tight. 10. Home affordability remains the best in years. We look forward to supplying you with local information each and every month. If you have any questions or comments, please contact us.

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Re/Max Across the Bay at FishHawk - 5664 Fishhawk Crossing Blvd. Lithia, FL 33547 Office: 813-685-2607 | Fax: 888-267-5001 | Se Habla EspaĂąol : 813-699-0289 | Email: Terry@ReMaxAcrossTheBay.com FOCUS Magazine brandon february 2013

extra » brandon chamber of commerce

BRANDON CHAMBEr Business briefing Health Fair

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, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Chamber. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 813689-1221.

The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce will hold the 2013 Health Fair “Future Trends in Health Care” on Saturday, March 2, 2013, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Campo Family YMCA, 3414 Culbreath Road, in Valrico. The Health Fair provides health-related industry members the opportunity to exhibit their products and/or services to the community. In 2012, 700-plus people took advantage of the health services and latest educational materials offered at the event. Health screenings will be provided throughout the day at various exhibit booths. Admission into the event and all screenings are free to the public.

This year’s Title Sponsor is Brandon Regional Hospital. Additional sponsorship opportunities are still available. Exhibitor space is also available, $100 for Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce members and $200 for prospective members (prices increase after Feb. 22). For more information about being a sponsor, exhibitor or placing an advertisement in the event program, please contact please contact:

Tricia Campbell at (813) 689-1221, ext. 8812, or tcampbell@brandonchamber.com. Register for events at www.brandonchamber.com.

february 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

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 Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza, 1912 W. Brandon Blvd., Thursday, February 7 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 February 7, 11:45 a.m. at Beef O’ Brady’s, 210 S. Kings Ave., 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:

Edward Jones Investments/ Sanjay Anderson Fireside Real Estate, LLC Great Clips Green House Mortgage Hit Master Graphics LA Fitness MP Global Tax Services Orange Leaf (Yogurt Shop) Tampa Bay Pools Tax & Retirement Solutions, LLC, d.b.a. The Business Barons Ultra Custom Group Unity in Brandon Church Urban Beat Dance

The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce will hold the 2013 Health Fair “Future Trends in Health Care” on Saturday, March 2, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Campo Family YMCA, 3414 Culbreath Road, in Valrico. The Health Fair provides health-related industry members the opportunity to exhibit their products and/or services to the community. In 2012, 700-plus people took advantage of the health services and latest educational materials offered at the event. Health screenings will be provided throughout the day at various exhibit booths. Admission into the event and all screenings are free to the public. This year’s Title Sponsor is Brandon Regional Hospital. Additional sponsorship opportunities are still available. Exhibitor space is also available, $100 for Brandon Chamber of Commerce members and $200 for prospective members (prices increase after Feb. 22). For more information about being a sponsor, exhibitor or placing an advertisement in the event program, please contact Tricia Campbell at 813-689-1221, ext. 8812, or tcampbell@brandonchamber.com. Register for events at www.brandonchamber.com.

February Networking Opportunities

Business After Hours- Tuesday, February 12 5:30 pm, Co-Sponsored by Melissa Snively State Farm Insurance and Kemp Design Services 16637 Fishhawk Blvd., Ste. 104, Lithia Coffee Club- Tuesday, February 26, 8 am Hosted by Ed Morse Cadillac of Brandon 11024 Causeway Blvd., Brandon “Straight Up” Networking Lunch- Wednesday, February 13, 11:45am- Beef O’ Brady’s 210 S. Kings Ave., Brandon

FOCUS Magazine brandon february 2013

Information

dining & entertainment » dining profile

First Choice Southern Bar-B-Que Brandon 10113 E Adamo Dr Tampa, FL 33619 Phone: (813) 621-7434 Monday - Saturday: 11 AM - 9 PM Closed on Sunday

First Choice Southern Family Owned and Operated Since 1992 Bar-B-Que F Written By: Deana Garrison

irst Choice Southern Bar-B-Que, located at 10113 Adamo Drive (SR 60), takes pride in serving top quality barbecue. Stepping through the door, you can immediately smell the sweet aroma of a barbecue lover’s paradise. From the slabs of ribs cooked on an open pit grill for three to four hours, to the tender stacks of chicken, sausage, pork, beef, corn beef brisket and turkey slowly cooking to perfection for up to 12 hours, this restaurant is one you don’t want to skip.

february 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

Everything at First Choice Southern Bar-BQue is made fresh daily—nothing frozen. Side choices include baked beans, potato salad, greens, french fries, cole slaw and macaroni salad. Plus, their homemade barbecue sauce recipe has been passed down through family generations. The prices are affordable for any budget. With a nice family atmosphere, you can bring your entire family out for a great time.

customers were eagerly lined up outside the restaurant before the doors even opened.

pork, corn beef, turkey breast, sausage, and rib sandwiches. Brandon is not the only lucky town home to this restaurant. Plant City also has a First Choice Southern Bar-B-Que for all to enjoy located at 712 South Collins Street in Plant City, and they too offer the same friendly service and great food as Brandon. Also, if you are looking for a catering service, look no further. First Choice Southern BarB-Que not only serves great food in their restaurant, but they’ll also prepare it for you to enjoy at any family reunion, office party, corporate meeting, and picnic. You’ll be sure to have high quality service and food. Make sure you call them today for all your catering needs.

Finally, servers brought ribs, pulled pork, sausage, potato salad, cole slaw and sweet tea to the table. The ribs are definitely a must try. The pulled pork was cooked to perfection, and the sausage was just the way FOCUS likes it. The proof was in the empty plates. The side choices of potato salad and cole slaw gave our meal that complete taste. There are When FOCUS visited this fine restaurant, many places that sell cole slaw, but this place So if you’re headed out to eat and not sure it was evident the friendly service and good has the best. And if you’re in the mood for of where to go, give this place a try. You’ll food is high above the rest as several hungry just a sandwich, they have selections of beef, definitely be glad you did.

PRIME LOCATION WITH EXCELLENT ACCESS!

Ofﬁce suites start at $400 and are inclusive

1 Mont Free R h ent (call fo r det ails)

(electricity, water, wireless internet)

Tenants have 24/7 access as well as use of the meeting rooms (upon availability). Short term (6 mos) leases are available as well as longer terms (1-2 years). Perfect for home-based businesses who have outgrown their home ofﬁce or for larger companies who would like a presence in the Greater Brandon area without having to open a full ofﬁce!

PLEASE CALL 813-689-1221 FOR MORE INFORMATION. FOCUS Magazine brandon february 2013

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FOCUS Magazine brandon february 2013

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

Monday, February 4

• AAA Travel’s Annual Cruise & Tour Show Embassy Suites Tampa-Brandon 10220 Palm River Rd., Tampa Fl 33619 Come meet experienced AAA Travel Consultants and Representatives from participating AAA cruise and tour partners. Learn about amazing destinations and the different ways to experience them.

Wednesday, February 6

and to help process 2011 tax filings. Blessed Bottoms is a non-profit organization “dedicated to helping meet the critical need for disposable diapers in our community.”

Sunday, February 17

• Uncle Mike’s Biker Sundays Uncle Mikes Smokehouse Grill 9847 E. Adamo Drive 11 am - 4 pm every Sunday Food and Drink Specials

• Rotary’s Camp Florida Fundraiser Lunch and Dinner 910 Providence Rd. Join Leadership Brandon’s Class of 2013 at Genghis Grill to raise money for a class project benefiting the Rotary’s Camp Florida. For more information please contact Nick Dorsch at ndorsch@genghisgrill.com or 813.662.2695

• Bloomingdale Pizza’s Car Show 4334 Bell Shoals Rd Valrico, FL 33594 Come out and enjoy the Bloomingdale Car show and the best pizza in town! There will be fun for the whole family. They offer dine in deliver or carry out for all of your pizza needs! For more information call 813.684.7466

Thursday, February 14

Saturday, March 2

• “Love a Child Diaper Drive”

1967 Lumsden Road H&R Block, at 1967 Lumsden Road, in the Brandon Center South Plaza, is hosting a Valentine’s Day diaper drive to benefit the Blessed Bottoms Diaper Bank. All sizes and brands of diapers are welcome, with donations collected from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Also scheduled are hourly drawings for door prizes and gifts. Tax professional will be on hand as well for a “Free 2nd Look” at previous years’ returns

Saturday, February 23

• Brandon Chamber of Commerce Health Fair Campo Family YMCA, 3414 Culbreath Road, in Valrico coupons.com The Health Fair provides health-related industry members the opportunity to exhibit their products and/or services to the community. Health screenings will be provided throughout the day at various exhibit booths. Admission into the event and all screenings are free to the public.

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FOCUS Magazine brandon february 2013

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february 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

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