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CONTENTS

06-10 Local

FOCUS Magazine enjoys promoting those committed to our community, and as always, it was easy to find things to talk about. Check out our article on the upcoming Wounded Warrior Project charity event to be held Sunday, September 22. Help Bleu Salon and LA Fitness reach their goal of $10,000 to be donated to Wounded Warriors who need assistance. Also be sure to support ECHO Brandon during its biggest fundraiser of the year— the Kids Helping Kids Fashion Show. Finally, learn about Sharron Cosby’s devotional book dedicated to helping families pray for their addicted loved one.

Feature: The Heart of Nashville LIVE

We’re so excited to partner with the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce about this event and we can’t keep quiet about it! Join us on September 12 as we kick off The Heart of Nashville LIVE. From September to November, we’ll be hosting a different act to share a few songs and their experiences in the country music industry. You won’t want to miss any of these intimate acoustic performances.

Spotlight: Brandon Bolts Basketball

FOCUS Magazine enjoyed speaking with Walter Perkins III and his son Walter IV about how their travel basketball league is rising to the next level by helping local youth improve their skills to gain college scholarships. But to these coaches, it’s not all about basketball. It’s about molding and shaping young people, teaching them the skills needed to succeed in life.

SEPTEMBER 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

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See Also: Team of the Month - 20 Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce Column - 24

ONTHECOVER Photography by Anthony Sassano

Walter Perkins III Walter Perkins IV

Coaching the Brandon Bolts Basketball Teams

September 2013 | Volume 7 Issue 1 | focusbrandon.com

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

You can almost feel it in the air—the great start to this new academic year in the Greater Brandon area schools. It’s a tangible excitement and an inspiring anticipation. Teachers are anxious to teach, coaches are ready to coach and students are ready to learn. Each year, it’s all about taking it to the next level. Ask any teacher how their students can best progress with success, and you’ll hear, “Help them discover their passion.” Our September spotlight interview reveals that’s exactly what father and son Walter Perkins III and Walter Perkins IV have tried to accomplish with their Brandon Bolts Basketball youth program, established in 1999. Both men like to challenge team members, asking, “What’s the next level?” The respected travel basketball program’s goal is to help kids get into college. Walter IV knows that if they can “expose as many kids to scouts as possible,” and “help the players grow mentally, physically, spiritually and morally,” their work will be worth the effort. According to Walter III, the lesson for their students will always be: “If you have a passion for something, you should go after it and do it.” Since another popular area passion is music, Focus decided to “do it” by sponsoring “The Heart of Nashville LIVE: The Ultimate Acoustic Performance.” Shows are scheduled for the second Thursdays of September, October and November at the Winthrop Barn Theater, an intimate setting with limited seating availability. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear “next level” musicians Jesse Keith Whitley, Jaida Dreyer and Chad Warrix. ECHO looks forward on October 5th to its 11th Annual Kids Helping Kids Fashion Show fundraiser, which supplies monies to help community families in need. The best part is seeing children learn about work for charitable causes and the importance of giving back. And displaying generosity is one thing the Greater Brandon community does so well. We hope you’ll enjoy this month’s issue and we appreciate your feedback. Your faithful support is what makes our “next level” possible. Go after it!

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

Editorial Director Amanda Deck adeck@floydpublications.com

Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990

Office Manager Christina DoVale cdovale@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. So if you notice anything that is incorrect, then please do not hesitate to contact the editorial department and inform it about the fact error. To do so, call (813) 707-8783 or e-mail editorial@floydpublications.com. The staff will fix the error in a timely manner. FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants and many local venues. Advertisers warrant and represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. Focus Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All letters and their contents sent to Focus Magazine become the sole property of Floyd Publications, Inc and may be reproduced thereof. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Floyd Publications, Inc. Use or duplication of material used in this publication is prohibited without approved written consent from Floyd Publications, Inc.

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON SEPTEMBER 2013

LOCAL

“Wounded Warrior A WAY TO SAY THANKS BLEU SALON AND LA FITNESS TEAM UP FOR THE WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT Project’s vision is to

ike Jonson didn’t come from a military family, but when he moved to the Tampa Bay area and purchased Bleu Salon in Valrico, he started befriending a countless number of service members from all branches. “I never realized how much of a sacrifice these people make in order to keep us all safe, and many of these people don’t make it back to the states the way they left,” said Jonson. With MacDill Air Force base so close, a large number of past and present military personnel and their families have called the suburbs of Brandon, Valrico, Lithia, and Riverview home. In order to show his support for these courageous Americans, Jonson, along with Bleu Salon and LA Fitness, will be hosting a Wounded Warriors Project charity event on Sunday, September 22 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the LA Fitness parking lot in the Royal Oaks plaza on Lithia Pinecrest Road. Jonson is still working out the official details of the event; however, he has invited numerous local businesses to participate, asking them to set up booths at the event to help raise funds for the Wounded Warrior Project. Participating businesses will be asked to donate items with a minimum value of $100 toward a silent auction and have a donation jar available at their booths. A 50-50 raffle is also in the works. One hundred percent of the proceeds collected at the charity event will be donated to the Wounded Warrior Project. Jonson’s goal is to raise at least $10,000. The Wounded Warrior Project began when several veterans and friends, moved by stories of the first wounded service members

SEPTEMBER 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

returning home from Afghanistan and Iraq, took action to help others in need. What started as a program to provide comfort items to wounded service members has grown into a complete rehabilitative effort to assist warriors as they transition back into civilian life. As of August 1, the organization serves 35,648 service members who were wounded physically and/or mentally in military operations after September 11, 2001. Since 2010, the Wounded Warrior Project has conducted an annual survey. According to the 2012 results in which 5,692 warriors responded, 78.3 percent experienced posttraumatic stress disorder during their service, 32.7 percent reported mental health issues, 34.1 percent reported three or more deployments during their service, 61.4 percent were enrolled in the labor force, 33.1 percent were enrolled in school, and 17.5 percent were unemployed. In order to serve warriors and families, the Wounded Warrior Project takes a holistic approach focusing on nurturing the mind and body and encouraging empowerment and engagement. The 18 specifically structured programs offered by the Wounded Warrior Project include educational services for warriors interested in attending or returning to school, career guidance and support services for warriors transitioning into the civilian workplace, physical health and wellness programs such as physical rehabilitation and nutrition, the Combat Stress Recovery Program to address the mental health needs of warriors, and care and comfort items for warriors receiving hospital treatment, among others.

Article by Amanda Deck “We have so many people in this community who can do so much,” said Jonson. “We need to show our support for the service members and their families who chose to live here, for all that they have done.”

To participate in the charity event sponsored by Bleu Salon and LA Fitness, contact Mike Jonson or Kayla Givens at 813-651-4020. Spots are limited and willing participants are asked to confirm attendance by Monday, September 16. For more information on the Wounded Warrior Project, visit woundedwarriorproject.org.

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SEPTEMBER 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

LOCAL

GETTING THE KIDS INVOLVED LOCAL KIDS TO RAISE MONEY FOR THOSE IN NEED Article by Darcie Jarrett

ECHO’s 11th Annual Kids Helping Kids Fashion Show will take place on October 5 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Hillsborough Community College’s Brandon Campus. Photo courtesy of ECHO

egistration has begun for ECHO’s 11th Annual Kids Helping Kids Fashion Show which will take place October 5 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Hillsborough Community College’s Brandon Campus. The funds raised are from local kids ranging from kindergarten to high school seniors and is the organization’s largest fundraiser. ECHO provides 16,000 area residents with food and clothing assistance every year. Half of them are to children under the age of eighteen. According to Stacey Efaw, ECHO’s Executive Director, “The event began as ECHO was searching for a way to get children involved in helping the less fortunate. We noticed that most fundraisers were geared towards adults and not children. This event gives children the opportunity to learn about charities, help other children in our area and have fun with fashion.” The presenting sponsor will be Publix Supermarket Charities and Kohl’s will also be involved by graciously providing the clothes the models will wear in the show. Children can get registered by visiting echofl. org and clicking on the Kids Helping Kids

Fashion Show banner at the top of the page. Each child will pay a $25 registration fee and is expected to raise at least $100. Sign-ups are handled mostly though the website, but if an electronic option is not available, you can also call ECHO Events Coordinator, Kathy Collins at 813-758-5161. Collins said, “The child who raises the most money is crowned Mr. or Miss ECHO. We get an article about them published in local newspapers and they ride with ECHO in the Annual Brandon 4th of July Parade.” The Armwood High School Culinary Department and the Academy of Technology and Design from Spoto High School will also be engaged in this year’s show. Collins states, “This brings out the ‘Kids Helping Kids’ aspect of the show.” As needs in our community, and around the world, are constantly present, Collins gives a tough local statistic: “One in six in our area face food insecurity which means they do not know where their next meal will come from. The statistics are even worse for children.” We may be not able to conquer the world’s needs but you have to start somewhere. Brandon is starting in its own backyard. FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON SEPTEMBER 2013

LOCAL

ADDICTIONS AFFECT THE ENTIRE FAMILY

NEW BOOK OFFERS HOPE Article by Cheryl Johnston

encourage those in the struggle. “Promotion is the most difficult part of publishing for me,” she said, “because from a young age I was taught, ‘Don’t toot your own horn’.” Sharron and her husband Dan are relieved that Josh has been clean now for 42 months. But relief didn’t come through an easy process. In 2008, she began a memoir tentatively titled Terror in Our Tent. When things just weren’t coming together, she set it aside. Then, at 2:30 on the morning of October 8, 2009, Sharron read a Scripture reference in her daughter-in-law’s Facebook post. Inspiration for a devotional was born that day. “Each day I read aloud from chapters 30 and 31 of Jeremiah, substituting Josh’s name for Israel’s, Riverview for Ramah, and listed Josh’s hostage takers. I made them personal.” On January 13, 2010, she determined to fast processed sugar from her diet until Josh “had been clean and sober from drugs and alcohol for at least a year.”

“This was more difficult than I expected,” Sharron said, “because I love sweets and sugar is in so much of our food. But my son was worth it. The fast gave me a small taste of an addict’s need and desire for drugs.” In frustration over his inability to help Josh for so many years, Dan Cosby became a Certified Addiction Professional after 20 years in corporate leadership. He now assists others through private and group sessions at the Lifebuilders Counseling Center, 306 W. Sadie Street in Brandon. (For help, visit dancosby.com or phone 813-438-5949). The Cosbys are members of New Day Church, but also minister on Wednesday evenings at Recovery Church (6:30 p.m. at the OneThing Prayer Center, 733 W. Lumsden Road). Everyone is welcome. Sharron welcomes communication through her blog at efamilyrecovery.com or on Facebook. To those who have lost all hope of seeing their family member whole and healthy, she advises: “Don’t enable your addict. Let go and let God be God. Trust the promises. He will turn situations around in His time.”

Author Sharron Cosby recently published her new devotional book, Praying for Your Addicted Loved One: 90 in 90. Photo courtesy of Sharron Cosby

wo words describe author Sharron Cosby: determination and humility. This writing wife, mother, and grandmother of five knows firsthand about fighting for the lives of her children. She’s also learned that, sometimes, “their lives aren’t ours to fix.” And because she kept a prayer journal off and on during son Josh’s 15-year addiction to drugs, others trapped in similar chaos can find encouragement in her new devotional book, Praying for Your ADDICTED Loved One: 90 in 90. The 294-page book will help families pray during the three-month period when a member attends an Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous 12-Step Program that recommends 90 meetings in 90 days. Each brief, easy-to-read chapter contains a daily Scripture, an example from experience, a prayer and journal space for reflection. Find it online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and christianbook.com.

SEPTEMBER 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

Cosby has a way with words and a depth of compassion reached only through the pain of watching her whole family suffer when Josh’s life detoured down the long, dark road of addiction. She’s been published in compilations such as Chicken Soup, Women of the Secret Place and Love is a Verb, and most recently with her “Crumbs of Hope” story in the new Max Lucado/Salvation Army partnership book, You’ll Get Through This. For help honing her craft, she credits two critique groups: Brandon Christian Writers and Word Weavers International in Tampa. Through her day job as the Legacy/Legal Department Director of The Salvation Army’s Florida Division, Sharron has a working knowledge of the help and hope SA offers in addiction situations. Indeed, her book’s foreword is written by Commissioner William Roberts, the organization’s National Commander. Cosby also desires to speak to groups and in churches about addiction recovery, in order to

Praying for Your Addicted Loved One: 90 in 90, a devotional written by Sharron Cosby, was inspired by her son Josh’s 15-year addiction to drugs. Photo courtesy of Sharron Cosby

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through the years…dim ents watched on television resid area n ndo Bra th, mon this ng tarti artist, an intimate setting so it “Music lights, focus on the of taste a ce rien expe to able be will ing directly to you. I pictured n. On felt like they were talk etow hom r thei ing leav out with ” City throp Barn Theater.” e, in it happening at the Win azin Mag us Foc 12, ber tem Sep Thursday, n Chamber partnership with the Greater Brando star third generation singer/ hville September’s show will Nas of rt Hea The off kick will ce, of Commer Whitley, son of Lorrie try songwriter Jesse Keith coun of e thre g urin feat s serie cert LIVE, a con Keith Whitley and grandson ations. Morgan and the late sens er writ ong er/s sing g risin nd George Morgan. music’s ts of Grand Ole Opr y lege artis the as ” wed “wo be to sure are Audiences the music industry and their Having grown up in and s song r thei ind beh ies stor his entire life, Whitley share the ic surrounded by performers mus tive peti com the in ces rien riences to unique expe will surely have many interesting expe a voice has he industry. share with the audience. Although craft to king itley is wor rd- similar to his father’s, Wh awa y mm Gra by ed er, host ll writ ong s—a Performance as a singer/s er his own distinctive style sing lead d Roa ons Clem and in. ucer with winning prod ess must come from throp Barn realizing his succ Cliff Brown at Riverview’s Win Thursday of Theater—will take place the second singer/songwriter Jaida ember, American-Canadian Nov ugh thro ber tem Sep from y, October th, each mon Dreyer will take the stage on Thursda act. rent diffe a g urin feat t scored a nigh ntly with each 10. This up-and-coming artist rece inning rd-w Grammy awa rim publishing deal with Inte ce mer Com of r mbe with Cha n ked ndo wor Greater Bra re, who’s ly producer Byron Gallimo eme extr is pson Sim ra Lau yer O Dre CE nd. and President raw, and Sugarla E and Faith Hill, Tim McG LIV le hvil Nas of rt e Hea som The t with excited abou elf by touring the has also established hers to it ent pres to nity ortu rch, opp Chu the Eric jumped at biggest names— ure singer/ of country music’s local community: “The events will feat rks Bentley, among others. Die and an, ies Luke Bry stor es scen theindbeh the ng givi songwriters as an artist, of writing the songs, life on the road e on Thursday, November orm an The series will conclud perf then will t artis The e. mor h and so muc member of the Halfway to nce.” 7 with Chad Warrix, nda atte in e thos for s song e thes le, “Daisy.” of acoustic set Hazard duo best known for their hit sing been on also to his career have brought Mementos related tely edia imm is “Th ed, tinu con Simpson cepts I have to my mind pictures of similar con

SEPTEMBER 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

Fame. Chad, display at the Kentucky Music Hall of mate David d ban along with Halfway to Hazard McGraw, Tim Tolliver, have worked closely with 2008 and tour ul opening for his 2007 Soul2So e by “Di k trac the Live Your Voice tour and writing nal otio Em ’s raw My Own Hand” featured on McG a as ess succ d foun Traffic album. Although Warrix uing purs y entl curr part of Halfway to Hazard, he is a solo career as a singer/songwriter. also have the During each event, spectators will ical talent, mus l opportunity to hear from loca Clemons Road. without the “This event would not be possible ons Road,” Clem support of our own local band, wn will Bro Cliff said Simpson. “The lead singer t, and artis ured feat be interacting directly with the ion sess jam a orm Clemons Road will then perf t artis ured feat the at the end of the event with joining.” ted at 11349 The Winthrop Barn Theater is loca Doors open w. rvie Bloomingdale Avenue in Rive served at 7 er dinn each night at 6:30 p.m. with . Tickets p.m 7:30 p.m. and the show starting at t and eigh of e tabl for each show are $300 for a and er dinn s ude $40 for individuals. Price incl ages Pack es Seri non-alcoholic beverages. VIP e for eight, are available for $900, including a tabl rity meet prio ing, primary parking, primary seat beverage ry enta and greet sessions, and complim packages for all three events. ted with just However, seating is extremely limi chance to this 15 tables available! Don’t miss powerful with ts experience three intimate nigh http:// ing visit by performers. Purchase tickets more For . IVE tinyurl.com/heartofnashvilleL tact con s, serie re information about the enti or 2, 881 ext. 1, Christie Lemar at 813-689-122 . clemar@brandonchamber.com beliefs that a “I have embraced the fundamental n you create whe lop community will grow and deve creativity is and on an environment where innovati ts where even g atin fostered and appreciated. Cre y can tivit crea and ic, those that appreciate art, mus want I ng ethi som is come together and have fun . “It pson Sim said to see more of in Brandon,” the in r othe e non will certainly be an event like community.” sored by The Heart of Nashville LIVE is co-spon n News, 99.5 ndo Bra Tampa Tribune, TBO.com & Friday night r. Wea WQYK, and Russell’s Western le Mike’s Unc at e performances will also take plac City) on t Plan 60, Smokehouse Grill (106 SR ober 11 Oct ), itley September 13 ( Jesse Keith Wh rix). War ad (Ch 8 ( Jaida Dreyer), and November

writer, Jesse Keith Whitley As a third generation singer/song in his DNA. Son of Lorrie ic mus try coun of s has many year and grandson of Grand tley Morgan and the late Keith Whi e has an incredible Jess gan, Mor rge Geo Ole Opry legend ng. talent for singing and songwriti Career Highlights: music star Lorrie Morgan, + Toured with his mother, country around the country. and performed in popular venues er at age 23 by signing care his of e + Launched newest phas with Octabrook Entertainment. with Octabrook + Released first album in May 2011 Records. y Music Hall of Fame, + Recently appeared at the Kentuck lf of his father beha on r hono ction indu accepting an Keith Whitley.

Her unmistakable voice, bubbly personality, and eclectic, insightful songwriting scored her a publishing deal with Grammy Award-winning producer Byron Gallimore (Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, Sugarland). She’s already toured with Eric Church and Luke Bryan, and opened for Dierks Bentley. Career Highlights:

+ World Champion Equestrian + At age 19, signed to Streamsound Records founded by Grammy award-winning producer Byron Gallimore. + Debuted two singles in 2012, “Guy’s Girl” and “Confessions” which charted on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs. + Debut album, I Am Jaida Dreyer, was released in February 2013. + Nominated by the Canadian Country Music Association for Female Vocalist of the Year. + Toured with Eric Church, Kenny Chesney, Ronnie Dunn, Luke Bryan, and Dierks Bentley.

2011, when a display Warrix received a major honor in went on display at the of mementos related to his career stint with Halfway To His e. Fam of Kentucky Music Hall with the powerful “Daisy.” Hazard notched a hit radio single Career Highlights:

debut single, “Daisy” was + As part of Halfway to Hazard, their Songs in 2007, and was nty Cou Hot ’s oard a Top 40 hit on Billb 6, 2007. st iTunes’ “Single of the Week” on Augu Hill’s Soul2Soul 2007 Faith and raw McG Tim for + Opening act d with Tim McGraw toure and rd, Haza tour as part of Halfway to tour in 2008. e Voic Your and Jason Aldean during the Live ic for “Duo of the Mus ntry Cou of emy Acad + Nominated by the Year” in 2008. o, “Rain on the Roof” in 2012. + Released debut solo music vide Own Hand” along with My by + Wrote Tim McGraw’s “Die Tolliver. d Davi mate band rd Haza to Halfway FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON SEPTEMBER 2013

SEPTEMBER 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

After becoming one of the best basketball players in Hillsborough County high school history with the Tampa Prep Terrapins, serving as court leader of the Saint Leo University Lions basketball team, and continuing his career at the semi-professional level, Walter Perkins IV has returned to the program that helped form him into the player he is today—the Brandon Bolts. Walter IV has joined his father Walter III, to help the traveling basketball program rise to the next level. For over a decade, the Brandon Bolts has allowed countless area athletes to reach new heights in their basketball careers, helping them play in college and beyond. FOCUS Magazine was able to sit down with the Perkins’ family to learn a little more about their love for basketball and their commitment to local youth. FOCUS Magazine: When did you first realize basketball was your passion? Walter Perkins IV: Since the ball was first in my hand. When I was a little kid, I always knew I wanted to play basketball. I played high school ball at Tampa Prep, graduated in ’07, and that team went to the state final four. Then I played college basketball at Saint Leo University. I’ve went to training camp with the Cadets up in Canada and played with the Tampa Bay Rain semi-pro team last year. Walter Perkins III: I started playing basketball as a young lad back in Miami, basically playing in little leagues but never really in high school because of my passion for music. While in high school I had to make a decision…was I going to go out for the team my senior year at Miami Central or continue with my music? I had to get a scholarship, so I made the decision not to go out for the team. I would have made the team because everyone was asking me to tryout. It was not a bad decision because I got a scholarship to go to college, but my high school team won the state championship that year. FOCUS: Did that experience help influence the creation of the Brandon Bolts? Walter III: That’s what gave me the passion to do this. One of the things I try to tell the young men I coach, what I’ve told them for the last 14 years, is to never have that “What if ?” moment. If you have a passion for something, you should go after it and do it. FOCUS: Give me a little background on the Brandon Bolts organization. Walter III: We started with an 11U team in 1999, and in 2000 we had 10 teams all the way from 11U to 17U for boys and girls. Some years we’ve even had two teams per age group. Teams are FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON SEPTEMBER 2013

formed with players from all communities. We’ve had kids that played at Sickles High School, Gaither High School, a bunch from Bayshore Christian, other private schools, so throughout the county. We’ve even had kids from Lakeland come out here and play with the Bolts. The Bolts organization kind of slowed down in 2009 because we didn’t have the growth. The reason was because it was my son’s last two years in college; I wanted to spend that time with him, watching him develop as a college athlete. Now that he’s graduated and now coaching, the Bolts organization is really taking off. The girls’ program is also coming back next year. The Bolts season starts in November, when we get back into the gym and start training. Games start in January, and we just finished up the season in mid-August. Our teams practice two to three times a week. For games, we stay in Florida unless we qualify to go to a national event. In the past, younger teams have stayed in the state, but we take our 15U, 16U, and 17U teams to college showcase tournaments as far as Las Vegas, Houston, and South Carolina. Also, we’re starting to run a systematic system within the entire Bolts organization, so the younger age groups are duplicating what the older age groups are doing. This is the new Bolts. With Walter IV coming back to the program, someone who’s played basketball at a high level, he’s bringing the knowledge he’s gained over the years to our teams. He will allow us to elevate our organization. FOCUS: Walter IV, did you always want to be a coach? Walter IV: I honestly never saw myself coaching because I saw my dad coaching and how it can be very stressful at times. But I’ve learned it can be very rewarding, especially when you see growth. And I’m starting to see that growth now with my sophomore team. I recently got a text from one of my players who went to an exposure camp and was ranked in the top 40 out of 250 kids. So he’s ranked in the top 40 in his age group in the United States. It was truly a “wow” feeling. FOCUS: Are there any other success stories that come to mind regarding players you’ve coached in the past? Walter III: If you look at the list of the top high school basketball players in Hillsborough County history, those players who’ve scored over 1,000 points in their careers, I want to say 15 players on that list have played for the Brandon Bolts. My son is in the top 60, scoring 1,498 points. A lot of those kids started here and went on to do great things in their basketball careers. I’ve had so many kids go to exposure camps, and this past March the Brandon Bolts helped run a camp in Atlanta. A lot of our kids from the Bolts went there and found a home at a college by being a part of that. I always say to the kids, “What’s the next level?” For us, our primary goal was to be a next level AAU basketball program. We were not very good at the beginning. But as we progressed, we started growing into a winning organization. After that, our goal was to get kids into college. It was never about basketball, but about getting kids an education. Our next goal was getting kids to play professionally overseas, which we do have a few doing that. We haven’t gotten that NBA player yet, but we are still hoping for it. FOCUS: Is there a specific moment that stands out regarding your time playing for the Brandon Bolts? Walter IV: During a 15U national tournament, I had the chance to play against Derrick Rose, who was actually the NBA MVP a few years ago. But my favorite part had to be the road trips. Those moments are priceless. The games are great, that’s what you sign up for. But I tell the kids all the time, that no matter what happens to soak it all in. The team will become your extended family. You don’t know it while you’re coming up, but I still talk to people I played with for the Bolts over 10 years ago.

that pushes love, peace, and respect. What I’m seeing now in corporate America, athletics really prepare you for a successful life and career. Not everyone is going to make the NBA, not everyone is going to play in college, but the principles you learn from being a part of a team translate into successful daily life. Walter III: Everybody has something different to offer to the team, just like everybody has something different to offer to their family. One of the things I always tell my team is that you’re going to be part of a team all your life. You get married; you’re going to be part of a team. You go to work; you’re going to be part of a team. You’re always going to be part of a team, so you need to know how to be a part of a team and how to work together as a team. FOCUS: Was there anything else you wanted to share? Walter III: I have to talk about my wife. She lets me do what I want when it comes to youth sports. She gives up a lot of her personal time and space, especially when I’m mentoring parents and kids. She’s sits on the sidelines waiting for me as I’m into someone else’s family, trying to make their situation better. It’s taken a lot of time away from us. Behind every great man is a great, great woman, and my wife is a great, great woman who never gets any accolades. She is the driving force behind the Bolts because she gives my son and me all the freedom to do what we want to do. She does all the stuff in the background that never gets talked about. Walter IV: Basketball wise, she’s always allowing me to pursue my dreams. Even if she knows in her heart of hearts what I’m saying is crazy, she’ll let me dream it. In general, she’s always been that pat on the back, that support system I need. I know she’s the one person I can call when I need help. It’s a blessing because a lot of people don’t have that someone they can rely on no matter what. FOCUS: Thank you so much for taking the time to talk to us about the Brandon Bolts. We appreciate all you do for the youth in our community and look forward to hearing more about your organization’s success. To learn more about the Bolts, visit brandonboltsbasketball.org.

The Brandon Bolts meet former Tampa Bay Buccaneer Derrick Brooks at a recent tournament.

FOCUS: What’s your philosophy when it comes to coaching? Walter IV: My goal is to expose as many kids to scouts as possible. I want to continue to help them grow as basketball players and as young men. As they get older, I have to become stricter. Off the court, I can be their friend, but on the court I need to be upfront and real about what it takes to reach the next level. I’ve been there. I know what it takes. I want to help them continue to grow mentally, physically, spiritually, and morally. I strive to create a family atmosphere

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Learning to be part of a team is one of the main lessons Brandon Bolts coaches stress to their players.

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON SEPTEMBER 2013

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BUSINESS » PROFILE anyone—at anytime—can enjoy the popular Sweet $16 Special: 90 minutes of jump time and choice of pizza slice or fountain drink. Bargain Jump Passes (10 jump sessions for $80) can also be purchased for the BOING! enthusiast.

BOING! Jump Center offers several special deals throughout the week, including College Nights on Tuesdays. Jump for just $10 from 8 to 9:30 p.m. with valid college ID. Photo courtesy of BOING! Jump Center

BOING! JUMP CENTER

BRANDON BUSINESS PROFILE

atching a movie…Going out to dinner…Watching television. Doing the same thing weekend after weekend can become quite a drag. Brandon residents, it’s time to add a little spice to your life and start jumping for joy—literally—at BOING! Jump Center. BOING! Jump Center, located at 622 South Ware Boulevard in Tampa, was the brainchild of Michael Canales. What started in 2007 as a 2-by-3-foot model soon evolved into Florida’s largest trampoline arena with over 12,000 square feet of multi-dimensional springy surfaces. “BOING! got its start due to an entrepreneurial desire to open a fun and exciting business,” said Canales. “When I discovered a similar concept out west, I knew that’s what I wanted to do.”

Profile by Amanda Deck Not only does BOING! offer open jump hours seven days a week for all ages, but it also hosts BOING! style dodgeball, adding a whole new dimension the popular game. A 65-foot trampoline track is also available for tumblers. No matter if you’re visiting BOING! for open jump sessions, dodgeball, or gymnastics, you’ll be sure to leave the arena sweaty and smiling. “There’s nothing more gratifying than seeing an entire family leaving our center dripping in sweat and grinning from ear to ear from the BOING! experience,” said Canales.

BOING! Jump Center offers great deals throughout the week. Enjoy two hours of jumping for the price of one from 5 p.m. to close during Monday and Thursday Madness. College students can jump for just $10 each Tuesday night from 8 to 9:30 p.m. (make sure to bring your college ID), and

With over 12,000 square feet of springy surfaces, BOING! Jump Center is Florida’s largest trampoline fun center. Photo courtesy of BOING! Jump Center

Furthermore, Combo Deals are available so “SPRINGERS” can experience the trampolines and new arcade area for one low price. Current combo deals include 60 minutes of jump and 40 game credits for $18, up to 120 minutes of jump, 100 game credits, pizza slice, and fountain drink for $37—a $15 savings. Canales describes the arcade area as “state of the art,” and boasts the “best prize redemption store in the area” which includes 98 square feet of display counters and over 240 square feet of wall display space. Earn tickets on your swipe card by playing interactive arcade games such as Deal of No Deal or Connect 4. Tickets can be redeemed for small, candy prizes for less than 25 tickets or arcade-goers can save up for more unique collectibles, including Airsoft pistols and pocket knives (18 years or older only), life-size stuffed animals, and more. Canales’ favorite prizes are the replica swords and shields from medieval history and movies like “Lord of the Rings.” BOING! Birthday Parties are always a huge hit as guests enjoy 75 minutes of jumping. A private room is also available for party guests to eat, sing, and open presents. The arcade, combined with the trampoline arena, is also great place to host special events or fundraisers.

BOING! Jump Center strives each day to make the guest experience a safe one. Rules are strictly enforced and arenas are always monitored by Jump Guards. Staff members also encourage “SPRINGERS” to warm up and stretch before performing jumps and stunts. Children under 48 inches are required to wear a protective helmet. Those under 4 years old, accompanied by a parent or adult sibling, may only participate during designated bittyBOING! hours. “Over the last four years, we have spent a great deal of time and focus on evolving, modifying, and reinventing ourselves in the quest of to offer the best and safest experience possible to our guests at an affordable price,” said Canales. “Our goal is to continue to attract old and new customers which will allow us to continue to reinvest in our facility and staff, making the BOING! experience even better.”

INFORMATION 622 S. Ware Blvd. Tampa, Florida 33619 Phone: 813-341-4897 Web: boingjump.com Hours: Monday-Thursday, 3 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, 3 to 10 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. bittyBOING! Hours Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

BOING! offers open jump sessions, dodgeball, and much more. Photo courtesy of BOING! Jump Center FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON SEPTEMBER 2013

SPORTS » TEAM OF THE MONTH

BLOOMINGDALE MAJORS ALL-STARS SOFTBALL TEAM Article by Deana Garrison

The Bloomingdale Little League 11-12 All-Stars were runner-ups in the Florida state tournament. Photo Submitted

he Bloomingdale Majors All-Stars Softball Team deserves the Team of The Month status. When they started their season no one had any idea how far they would go. They won District, Sectionals, and were State Semi-Finalists. Making such accomplishments take lots of dedication and hard work. The drive of the players is what made it all happen. They work together as a team and have built a rapport so strong that it gave their team a solid foundation to only develop more skill as the season continued. With an 11-12 year-old age bracket, the majority of their players this season were 11 year olds. On average, they were the young team playing against many older players. This

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didn’t stop them and they only got stronger with time. Head Coach D.J. Pena along with coaches Dan Cooper and Bryon LoPreste guided these young ladies throughout the season, teaching them many skills and techniques that would help them become better players. Paul Seifert, a parent of one of the players admires the skill in which Pena coached these young ladies: “He knew how to position the players not only in their position that fit their skill, but explained to them where they needed to stand on specific plays. On one play, our shortstop made an incredible play

due to her skills as well as his coaching on where and when to move,” Seifert explained. Seifert has coached baseball for many years before deciding to coach softball and has been coaching girls’ teams for the past two years. The excitement of traveling to the State Finals gave a tremendous amount of encouragement and confidence to these young ladies. They have really come a long way this season and proved to be an outstanding team. I am also very impressed with their level of academic skills in school. It makes me happy to see such well-rounded individuals that have a drive for success not only on the field but in

the classroom as well. Many of their players are straight “A” students and all of them have Honor Roll status. It is so refreshing to see the importance of academics and athletic skills combined in the drive of success in these young ladies. Many of the players continue developing their skills throughout the year on a travel team and have played together for many years. Bloomingdale All-Stars Softball Team deserves the Team of the Month and I wish these young ladies all the success in years to come.

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SPORTS » ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

RACHEL SEIFERT

ATHLETE OF THE MONTH R Article by Deana Garrison

achel Seifert, number 15 of The Bloomingdale Majors All-Stars Softball Team, is the Athlete of the Month. This young lady began her journey in softball following gymnastics at age 9 after she realized that she wanted to follow in her sister’s footsteps and interact with other kids her age since at that time she was homeschooled. Since then, Seifert has developed the skills necessary to become an outstanding pitcher. With her hard work and dedication she is determined to achieve the goal of becoming an even better pitcher than she is now. She has set her standards high for herself and seems to have no trouble meeting her goals.

In this past season, Seifert was able to go with her team to achieve the status of a State SemiFinalist. On her way to the top she pitched a perfect game this season proving to everyone she has what it takes to help her team succeed. Her dad, Paul Seifert, as well as Coach D.J. Pena are very impressed with her work ethic as well as her drive and dedication to be the best softball pitcher she can possibly be all the while keeping her grades up. Teamwork and dedication is very important to her. When asked what game stands out to

her the most she replied, “The game against Land O’ Lakes when we went into extra innings. I pitched 6 or 7 innings and it was a very hard game. Everybody played their best and although we lost that game, it stood out to me because everyone played their hardest.” Winning isn’t the key point, it is the teamwork and dedication that is major idea behind her thinking. What a concept. She definitely has it all figured out and that is the very reason her team didn’t lose very many games and made it to the top. She is now an eighth grader at Seffner Christian Academy and plays on the travel team. Both academics and athletic skills are very important to her, and she hopes to take them both to an even higher level than what she has already achieved. Something tells me she will do just that. This young lady seems to have the skill and drive it takes to succeed. Paul Seifert is impressed with his daughter and said, “She has matured a lot through softball. She is very dedicated and works really hard at it.” We wish Rachel all the best in her future years throughout her softball journey. September’s Athlete of the Month is Rachel Seifert, pitcher for the Bloomingdale Little League 11-12 All-Stars. Photo submitted

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON SEPTEMBER 2013

EXTRA » BRANDON CHAMBER

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 813-689-1221.

BRANDON CHAMBER

BUSINESS BRIEFING BRANDON CHAMBER PARTNERS TO HOST THE HEART OF NASHVILLE LIVE

In partnership with The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, this fall FOCUS Magazine presents The Heart of Nashville LIVE hosted by Cliff Brown. This concert series is co-sponsored by The Tampa Tribune, TBO.com & Brandon News, 99.5 WQYK, FOCUS Magazine and Russell’s Western Wear, Inc., and is the ultimate acoustic performance featuring three Nashville upand-coming singer/songwriter sensations: Jesse Keith Whitley, Jaida Dreyer and Chad Warrix. Hear their stories behind the songs and messages from the heart as they take The Winthrop Barn Theater’s stage (11349 Bloomingdale Ave., Riverview) September 12, October 10 and November 7. Seating for these events begins at 6:30 p.m., with dinner at 7:00 p.m., followed by a 7:30 p.m. performance. This first of three concerts in this series features a third generation singer/songwriter, Jesse Keith Whitley. He has many years of country music in his DNA. The son of Lorrie Morgan and the late Keith Whitley and grandson of Opry legend George Morgan, Jesse is an incredible talent. He takes the stage Thursday, September 12. Join us! Individual tickets are $40 and include dinner and non-alcoholic beverages. Party tables of eight are available for $300. Only 15 total tables are available for the intimate and exclusive setting. VIP Series Packages are available for $900 and include a table with

SEPTEMBER 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

seating for eight during all three events, primary parking, primary seating, priority meet and greet sessions, and complimentary beverage packages. Purchase tickets to this concert by visiting http://conta.cc/18JVo4c. For more information about the entire concert series visit http://tinyurl.com/ heartofnashvilleLIVE or contact Christie Lemar at 813-689-1221, ext. 8812, or clemar@brandonchamber.com.

FREE Working Smarter Workshops led by counselors of the Hillsborough County Small Business Information Center. “Smart Start Your Business” will be held on Tuesday, September 10 from 9 to 11 a.m. In this session, attendees will receive general information on mandatory licenses, legal entities, zoning issues, marketing, grant availability and financing options. This seminar will be led by certified business counselors from the Hillsborough County Small Business Information Center (SBIC). For more information or to register please contact Suzanne Dowdy at sdowdy@ brandonchamber.com or 813-689-1221, ext. 8836.

SEPTEMBER NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

Business After Hours – Tuesday, September 10, 5:30 p.m., hosted by Parwani Law, P.A., 9905 Alambra Ave., Tampa

Networking at Noon – Tuesday, September 17, 12 p.m., hosted by Ed Morse Cadillac of Brandon, 11024 Causeway Blvd., Brandon Coffee Club – Tuesday, September 24, 8 a.m., hosted by Wok Chi, 2420 W. Brandon Blvd., Brandon

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS BRANDON

Are you under 39 years of age…or feel like it? Then this group is for you. YP Brandon inspires young professionals to Lead by example, Grow by association, and Give back to the Brandon community. Come join the Young Professionals at Lee Roy Selmon’s, 11310 Causeway Blvd., Brandon, Thursday, September 5 at 5:30 p.m. for a Networking Social. This event is FREE for YP Brandon members and $5 for guests. Can’t make the networking social? Come join us for a “Straight Up” Networking Lunch on Wednesday, September 11, 11:45 a.m. at Square 1 Burgers, 2042 Badlands Dr., Brandon. This event is OPEN TO ALL Brandon Chamber members. For more information on YP Brandon or its events please contact Suzanne Dowdy at 813-689-1221, Ext. 8836 or sdowdy@ brandonchamber.com.

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PLEASE CALL 813-689-1221 FOR MORE INFORMATION. FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON SEPTEMBER 2013

D & E » DINING PROFILE

PAPA MURPHY’S

PIZZA

BRANDON DINING PROFILE B ye-bye, old American pie…pizza, that is. Now you can think pizza fresh from your own oven without the hassle. Delight in the smell, the sight, the tastes of cheese, sauce, veggies and meats, baked at home with family or friends. Papa Murphy’s Pizza offers just such a treat. It’s a fresh “take and bake” concept. Owner Cole Kilen said, “What makes us different is that we make everything fresh in the store from scratch. We mix the dough, shred the cheese, cut the veggies. Then we put together your custom pizza in front of your eyes and you take it home and pop it in the oven. Our main emphasis is on the freshest possible ingredients.” And—depending on your oven—it’s ready to eat within 30 minutes of walking it in the door. I talked with Jacy Vigness as she made our pizzas in the Brandon store. I noted the very generous quantity of cheese and toppings she

Profile by Janice Doyle piled on the crusts. My two grandsons were visiting me at the time, and we took home a large original pepperoni pizza ($9). Just before it went in the oven, they counted the number of pepperoni slices and lost track at 50!

The Herb Chicken Mediterranean deLITE pizza is delicious, featuring olive oil, garlic, herb chicken, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and Feta cheese. Photo courtesy of Papa Murphy’s Website

We also took home and baked a large Herb Chicken Mediterranean deLITE ($10), and I loved the blend of oil, garlic, spinach and sundried tomatoes with herby chicken and Feta cheese. What a treat! Kilen says that particular pizza is one of their best sellers. Hands down, I agree. For breakfast the next morning, the grandsons unwrapped and baked a Papa Murphy’s Cinnamon Wheel ($3). Ah, the aroma as it baked! Kilen says their average pizza costs the customer between 8 and 12 dollars. “We offer 27 different toppings, everything from artichokes to zucchini. We can customize pizza to fit family eaters. We can do one with

The Cinnamon Wheel is just one of several sides you can Take ‘N’ Bake from Papa Murphy’s Pizza. Others include Cheesy Bread, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, and S’mores Dessert Pizza, among others. Photo courtesy of Papa Murphy’s Website

a quarter just cheese, for example, or half this and half that, even if it needs different sauces.”

2-topping pizza for $6. Jayce said, “Our text specials are very popular! Customers love it.”

Customer Bob S. buys a large 5-Meat Stuffed pizza ($13) to bake for his three teenage boys. He and his wife get the Taco Grande ($12) to share.

Other specials include Military Mondays (30% off ) and $10 Tuesdays (any pizza, any size).

There’s a Signature and Gourmet line of pizzas for customers with a more sophisticated palate. Other customers have discovered the readyto-bake lasagna, breads, chocolate chip cookie dough and salads. Kilen says their most expensive pizza is one he calls “Football day pizza.” It 16 inches across, weighs five pounds, is two inches thick, feeds six adults, is full of goodies and costs $58. Customer service is important to Papa Murphy’s. Kilen said, “It is our goal and pleasure to make people feel good about their experience with us.”

Jacy Vigness adds some of the dozens of pepperoni slices to a pizza at Papa Murphy’s. Photo by David Lalmond

SEPTEMBER 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

Value is a big factor in the popularity of Papa Murphy’s. Special ways to save money include coupons (look online) as well as joining their text club. Text papamurphys4 to 95323 and receive exclusive offers, such as a recent large,

In 2003, Papa Murphy’s was voted “Best Pizza Chain in America” by Restaurants and Institutions Magazine and have been voted the same every year since. Other awards include best cheese pizza in America. So, bye-bye old American pie. You’ll find the local Papa Murphy’s on Lithia Pinecrest Road (near the WalMart Neighborhood Store), and you’ll never want another lukewarm pizza delivered. It’s best to take it and bake it yourself. Orders are available by walk-in or call-in.

INFORMATION Papa Murphy’s Pizza 859 Lithia Pinecrest Road Brandon, Florida 33511 813-689-8090

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON SEPTEMBER 2013

event

can’t miss

Bands for SEPTEMBER Brooklynn 08 SUNDAY

Five-year-old Brooklynn Santos was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy—a disease that destroys the body’s nerve cells which control movements such as crawling, walking, head and neck control, and swallowing—just 13 days before her first birthday. The Noise Box, a nonprofit organization that features local bands, will be joining together with Brooklynn’s family to host “Bands for Brooklynn” on Saturday, September 7 from 5 to 10 p.m. at Christ Community Church, located at 1310 John Moore Road in Brandon. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Brooklynn’s medical fund. The community is invited to join together for a night of dancing, raffles, a bake sale, and much more. Tickets are $4 in advance and $6 at the door. Contact Shawn Welsh Santos (813-495-1045) or Jayson Santos (813-784-2657) on how you can help. Also search for the “Bands for Brooklynn” event page on Facebook for more information.

Brandon Area High School

Varsity Football Home Games

Friday, September 6 Brandon High School Eagles vs. Bloomingdale High School Bulls Brandon High School | 7 p.m. 1101 Victoria St., Brandon Riverview High School Sharks v. East Bay High School (Gibsonton) Indians Riverview High School | 7:30 p.m. 11311 Boyette Rd., Riverview Friday, September 12 Riverview High School Sharks v. Brandon High School Eagles Riverview High School | 7 pm. 11311 Boyette Rd., Riverview Newsome High School Wolves v. Sickles High School (Tampa) Gryphons.

SEPTEMBER 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

Newsome High School | 7:30 p.m. 16550 Fishhawk Blvd., Lithia Friday, September 27 Bloomingdale High School Bulls vs. Plant City High School Raiders Bloomingdale High School | 7 p.m. 1700 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico Newsome High School Wolves. V. Jesuit High School (Tampa) Tigers Newsome High School | 7 p.m. 16550 Fishhawk Blvd., Lithia Friday, September 29 Brandon High School vs. Chamberlain High School (Tampa) Chiefs Brandon High School | 7 p.m. 1101 Victoria St., Brandon

Celebrate Grandparents Day California Pizza Kitchen at Westfield Brandon | 11 a.m. 459 Brandon Town Center, Brandon Join Westfield Brandon for a special Family Fun Day. Kids and grandparents will enjoy fun activities including balloon twisters, arts and crafts, and special meet and greet with Bearemy from Build-A-Bear. Reservations are required by calling 813-684-2375.

11 WEDNESDAY

Community Roundtable Monthly Meeting Center Place | 6:30 p.m. Membership is open to all and a light snack is provided to members. Each month an $100 donation is made to a raffle winner’s local selected charity. Find out how you can make a difference in your community. For more information, contact Janine Nickerson at 813-6614350 or at roundtable2008@aol.com.

12 THURSDAY

The Heart of Nashville Live Featuring Jesse Keith Whitley The Winthrop Barn Theater | Doors open at 6:30 p.m. 11349 Bloomingdale Ave., Riverview FOCUS Magazine, in collaboration with The Tampa Tribune, Russell’s Western Wear, WQYK 99.5, and Yuengling, presents “The Ultimate Acoustic Performance” hosted by Cliff Brown. Cost is $300 for a table of eight, $40 per individual ticket. Price includes dinner and non-alcoholic beverages. Dinner begins at 7 p.m. with show starting at 7:30 p.m. Limited seating available. For more information, call 813-707-8783 Ext. 26. Jesse Keith Whitley concert is first in a series. Other shows to take place Thursday, October 10 with Jaida Dreyer and Thursday, November 7 with Chad Warrix. Don’t miss out on this awesome experience with some of country music’s best singers and songwriters. Order your tickets now for any or all performances!

14 SATURDAY

Dash and Splash Aquathon Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center | 7:30 a.m. 405 Beverly Blvd., Brandon Second annual event run and swim event with proceeds benefitting families who cannot afford swim lessons and water safety instruction. The adult race--2 mile run + 1/4 mile swim + 1 mile run--begins at 7:30 a.m. Kids’ races--1/2 mile run + 100 meter swim for ages 7-10 and 1 mile run + 200 meter swim for ages 11-14--begin at 8:30 a.m. Cannonballapalooza to immediately follow the awards ceremony. Single, team, tandem jumps and more to be judged by local celebrities. Free open family swim, DJ, beverage tent, and food trucks are more event highlights. For more information, contact mybsac.org or 813-361-7450.

Arts and Crafts Show Brandon Moose Lodge | 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 804 S. Miller Rd., Valrico Event will feature over 40 vendors, and will also have a bake sale, snack bar, and raffles. All proceeds go to benefit Women of the Moose charities. For more information, please call Debbie Provost at 813655-0423. Gallery Hop Presented by the Greater Brandon Arts Council, Center Place, and the Brandon League of Fine Arts. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bring Art Alive, find the hidden treasures of Greater Brandon by visiting all six venues. Get your program stamped and put your name in the pot for a drawing of the baskets at Center Place at 5:30 to 7 p.m. Venues include The Green Boutique (1032 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico, Plaza Bella), Orange Home Accessories (1046 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico, Plaza Bella), Pottery Patch (2551 State Road 60 East, Valrico), Beaux Arts Gallery (11252 Winthrop Main St., Riverview, St. Pete Times Building), Sketch and Sip (11248 Winthrop Main St., Riverview, St. Pete Times Building), Bead Boutique (704 W. Lumsden Rd., Brandon, LaViva Plaza), and Center Place (619 Vonderburg Dr., Suite B., Brandon). For more information call 813-685-8888 or email cp@ centerplacebrandon.org. NFL Pass, Punk and Kick Contest North Brandon Family YMCA | 1 p.m. 3097 S. Kingsway Rd., Seffner This free, family-fun event is sanctioned by the NFL and is for boys and girls ages 6-15. Winners of this local contest will then compete a a regional/sectional competition. Register your child at NFLPPK.com or at the North Brandon Family YMCA.

19 THURSDAY

Beach Blanket Bunco for the Arts Center Place | 6:30 p.m. 619 Vonderburg Dr., Brandon Bunco is a game of dice, luck, social interaction, and prizes. No skill or experience is required. In addition to conversation and friendly competition, there will be dinner, refreshments, and a 50/50. At the end of the evening, five exceptional prizes will be awarded. Individuals can win in one category only. Tickets are $20 per person, which includes dinner and drinks. For more information, call 813-685-8888 or visit centerplacebrandon.org.

26 THURSDAY

Strawberry Picks Concert Presented by the Eastern Hillsborough Community Band The Clubhouse at Strawberry Ridge | 7 p.m. 3419 State Road 60 East, Valrico Everyone is invited to attend the Brandon Strawberry Picks concerts with selections ranging from patriotic and jazz to marches and pop. Some of the songs include Sgt. Pepper Lonely Hearts Club Band, Soul Bossa Nova, God Bless the U.S.A. and The Pink Panther. The event is a $5 donation at the door. Reservations are not required. For more information, call 813-569-1771, email info@ehcb. org, or visit ehcb.org.

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON SEPTEMBER 2013

25¢ WALK IN “NEW SUMMER SCHEDULE” (calendar available) SPECIALS THROUGHOUT THE DAY

$250 Jackpots Bolt Bingo Friday and Saturday 6:00PM ‘til ??? $250 jackpot

(with min. # of players)

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Smoking and Non Smoking Section

813-752-2525

1846/1848 J. L. Redman Parkway | Located in the Strawberry Plaza

SEPTEMBER 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON SEPTEMBER 2013