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CONTENTS

06-10 Local

Business: We Fix It

Dining: Wok Chi

This month in our local section, we highlight a couple of events that have passed and one to come. Read our review of Center Place Fine Arts and Civic Association’s—in partnership with The Community Roundtable—Holiday Cards for Troops event as well as the Food Truck Food Drive benefitting ECHO. Brandon residents also look forward to hosting the stars of Lifetime TV’s “Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition.”

Feature: Small Business Success

For the 32nd year, the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce has celebrated the area’s best small businesses by hosting an annual awards gala. Nearly 300 guests attended this year’s event and watched local businesses take home the titles of Home Based Business of the Year, Minority and Woman Owned Business of the Year, 1-5 Employees Business of the Year, 6-15 Employees Business of the Year, and 16+ Employees Business of the Year. Learn a little about the winners and the status of small business in Brandon.

Spotlight: Honor Flight of West Central Florida

With Veterans Day on the horizon, we felt it fitting to shine a light on one of the area’s most giving nonprofits—Honor Flight of West Central Florida. What makes Honor Flight stand out is that it gives WWII veterans the opportunity to visit their war’s monument in Washington, D.C. for free. We were able to speak with the president of Honor Flight’s West Central Florida branch on what you can do to help fund even more trips!

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Our society is more connected than ever, making smart phones a huge necessity in our lives. However, when your smart device breaks, it can become a detriment to your work and social life. Don’t spend hundreds of dollars on a new phone when the damage can be easily fixed. Stop by We Fix It, located in the Verizon Wireless store on Bloomingdale Avenue in Valrico, to get your phone fixed for less today.

Wok Chi is redefining Chinese food in America by offering healthy wok-seared dishes without the additives and preservatives. Everything at Wok Chi is made fresh right in front of your eyes while you sip on a complimentary cup of organic green tea and munch on some strawberry fortune cookies—yes, they’re free! Stop by and fill your life with Chi. You won’t regret it.

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

ONTHECOVER Photography by Anthony Sassano

Front Row (L to R): Ben Yocom, HFWCF co-founder Leonard Black, Nat Storms Second Row (L to R): Marie Gilmore, HFWCF President James Haake, Tammy Holmberg

November 2013 | Volume 7 Issue 3 | focusbrandon.com

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER Happy Holiday Season!

November is the month for Thanksgiving gatherings, those special times we set aside to express our gratitude for life’s blessings and each other. We’re all looking forward to the traditional dinner with all the trimmings, and it’s always interesting to hear of the unique recipes that grace another family’s table. In our multicultural community, meals can include not only turkey or ham with dressing, but also specialties such as roast pork, boliche, paella, enchiladas, collard or turnip greens, egg rolls, tres leches cake or flan and many, many others. If your family enjoys something special, feel free to name it or share the recipe on our Facebook page. So, are you hungry yet? To ensure that families in need in this community wouldn’t go hungry, area folks donated more than 1,000 pounds of food in October during the Food Truck Food Drive to benefit ECHO. A big thanks to The Revolution Ice Cream Company and other local food trucks who collected your contributions. It’s also the month in which we especially honor our military Veterans. Hopefully you will visit one of the local commemorations. And please don’t miss our Spotlight Interview with volunteers from Honor Flight of West Central Florida. This non-profit group exists to fly older Veterans on organized trips to visit the military monuments and war memorials in the nation’s capitol. For an incredible treat, find out how your family can help to welcome our elderly heroes home. And for those still serving, The Community Roundtable and Center Place recently sponsored its annual Holiday Cards for Troops event. Many gathered to handcraft Christmas cards that our overseas troops can then send back to their families in the states. Can you spell G-R-A-T-I-T-U-D-E? Each November, our magazine showcases the Small Business Award winners announced by the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce at its annual banquet. Read to learn some great tips from five successful enterprises and then shop local to show your support. As always, Brandon readers, once again we say “Thank you” for supporting our monthly efforts to bring you the best local stories. We are grateful beyond belief. Enjoy your holidays.

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

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Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990

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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 NOVEMBER 2013

LOCAL

THE SWEET SIDE

OF GIVING ECHO AND THE REVOLUTION ICE CREAM CO

TEAM UP TO STOCK SHELVES Article by Darcie Jarrett

CHO received some help with building up their pantry supply on Sunday, October 13. From 1 to 7 p.m., the parking lot at 220 W. Brandon Blvd was roped off for the First Annual Revolution Food Truck Food Drive. The event consisted of about five local food trucks such as South Pacific Grill, Hot Box’d Steamed Cheeseburgers, Seven7Tables and Kind Grinds; a bouncy house; face painting; merchandise tables; and, of course, ice cream. Bill and Leslee Workman, owners of The Rev, approached ECHO a month ago because they wanted to help. “I said I wanted to have a food drive and I needed somewhere to get the food to,” said Bill Workman. With ECHO being right around the corner from the shop, his choice was easy. To entice residents to get involved, Bill gave a little something in return. For every two food

items donated, a ticket was given—worth $1—toward the purchase of food or ice cream. Bill’s goal with the event was to raise 2,000 food items to help feed the hungry in the Brandon community. Not only did he meet his goal, but even exceeded it—with over 1,000 pounds of food being reported! This was a big help to the ECHO organization. The last food drive was back in May, and it is this time of year the pantry shelves start to become bare. Gene Edwards, a volunteer for the organization, said, “This is a good thing here because it helps us when we are not in a food drive. Believe it or not, we get very little corn, very little green beans in a food drive. We have to go buy them.” He was happy to see a lot of Sunday’s donations were just that. “We are a non-forprofit,” explained Gene. “We do have a food budget, but if we buy all that, we still have to

ECHO set up a tent for donations. Photo by Darcie Jarrett

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A young attender gets her face painted after dropping off her donation. Photo by Darcie Jarrett

buy eggs, produce, meat—we can’t take any perishable foods—it takes away from that. So this is extremely helpful.” One of the more recent, larger contributions has come from Walmart. The company provided ECHO with a $40,000 grant which provided them with a truck and a year’s worth of insurance. “We got it,” said Gene “because they wanted us to put out fresh produce to the clients.” ECHO has been helping people in the community since 1987. Its main goal is to get people back on their feet and into society.

Besides the food pantry, they also have clothing, housewares, baby items, as well as computers available for people to apply for jobs and even finish their GEDs. “We just do what He tells us,” said Leslee Workman about her and her husband’s involvement in the community, while pointing upward. The Rev opened their doors March 6 of this year and does as much as it can, as often as it can, to bless others and show their love for the Lord.

Attenders enjoy ice cream and good company. Photo by Darcie Jarrett

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FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON NOVEMBER 2013

LOCAL

A MEMORABLE DAY LOCAL DANCE STUDIO OPENS ITS DOORS TO STARS Article by Darcie Jarrett

Abby Lee Miller (far right) is the host of Lifetime TV’s hit show, Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition. Participants from the show will visit Kim Hall’s School of Dance on Saturday, November 2. Photo courtesy of Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition Website

oung dancers are in for a treat as Kim Hall’s School of Dance will be hosting cast members from Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition on November 2. The show’s second season started on September 3 and airs every Tuesday at 9 p.m. on Lifetime TV. Eleven dancers are selected from over 1,000 national title holders to win $100,000 and a scholarship to the Young Dancers Program at the Joffrey Ballet School in New York. The show features the famous dance instructor Abby Lee Miller from the hit series, Dance Moms. The chosen few are boys and girls ages 6 to 13 who are accompanied, and coached, by their moms as they compete against each other every week with one contestant being voted off by the panel of experienced judges. Hall’s dance studio has been teaching the art of dance for 31 years in the area. Laura Perez, one of the studio’s instructors, stated, “This is an exciting opportunity for our studio; to be associated with a nationally known program and just to have been asked—there are over 30 dance studios in the Brandon area alone.”

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The studio has a heavy presence in the dance world and rumor has it they were recommended to the dancer’s agents by a “friend of a friend.” The studio will have sessions to include a meet and greet, photo session, autograph session, and “Dance Showcase” where the cast members will perform for the participants. For ages 11 and under, the time slots will be from 1 to 3:30 p.m. and 12 and over will be from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Dancers can reserve spots by purchasing tickets on the studio’s website or by calling their office. Perez added, “Each session will have an optional master class with Alyssa—a New York Knicks choreographer coming to us from NYC! The five cast members will be assisting Alyssa with her classes.” The studio wants to invite every fan, dancers and non-dancers alike, to come out and enjoy this “opportunity to mingle with kids,” said Perez, “who are currently living their dreams on TV.” For more information, or to reserve your child’s spot, you can visit Kim Hall’s website at kimhallsschoolofdance.com.

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON NOVEMBER 2013

LOCAL

MAKE A CARD, MAKE A SMILE

HOLIDAY CARDS FOR TROOPS Article by Taylor Thomas

Three selfless ladies smile for the camera as they prepare holiday cards for our military personnel overseas. Photo courtesy of Center Place

n Saturday, October 5, local residents of Brandon were invited to the Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association lobby for a little early holiday spirit in the form of postal cards for our U.S. military personnel that are stationed overseas. Starting at 9 a.m., all willing participants ages 16 and up were welcomed to the establishment where they found tables with a variety of cards to choose from. The blank cards were lovingly decorated by those who attended and then promptly packaged in boxes to be sent to U.S. personnel overseas. Military family members were especially prominent over the course of the day. For those who wanted to support the cause of the event but didn’t have the time to partake in the card-creation process, donations were allowed to sponsor the costs of supplies and postage. In addition to this, a variety of food sponsors came out to show their patriotism by sending catering services free of charge to the venue. Both big corporations and small, familyowned businesses alike banded together to bring fresh pizza, subs, salads, pastas, and a

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plethora of desserts including cookies, cakes, pies, and much more! As the day went on, participants cycled busily in and out of the building in a similar fashion to what one might think of Santa’s workshop. The ages of the card makers varied greatly, producing a unique array of cards. Although many card outlines were offered, a few people went against the grain to create their own cards from scratch. Some of these cards really stood out as it was easy to see that the creator put in a dash of emotion to accompany their work. As the bulk of the cards were finished, piles were spread across the tables of one particular backroom, signifying the success of the event. It protruded a genuine holiday glow to everyone who had a part in making this happen. All in all, by the end of the day everyone advocated their satisfaction with the outcome of the gathering. With hundreds of cards to be shipped, there is much more work to be done before the cards are given the opportunity to see the warfront. Needless to say, a labor of love will be the most essential tool to putting a smile on our troops’ faces.

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FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON NOVEMBER 2013

SMALL BUSINESS

SUCCESS Brandon Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year Finalists gathered for the annual gala on Thursday, October 17.

GREATER BRANDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SELECTS SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS | Feature by Amanda Deck | Photos by Huth & Booth Photography |

Since the community of Brandon was founded in 1957, residents have always worked hard to uphold family values. Over the past few decades, the Brandon population has expanded immensely—now well over 100,000 according to the 2010 U.S. Census. However, although the community continues to grow on a daily basis, Brandon is still built upon those same family values, and one of the main components of the area’s growth is its unwavering commitment to supporting small, family-owned businesses. In other words, instead of looking elsewhere for entrepreneurial success, prospective business owners are finding it in Brandon, which only helps boost the local economy. “Small business in Brandon has been a key factor of Brandon Chamber membership,” said Chamber President and CEO Laura Simpson. “Over 85 percent of our members own small businesses, the bulk of them having just 10 employees or less.

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Brandon is a tried and true small business community from retail, to restaurants, to the service industry and beyond. Our entire community is served by small business.” The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce plays a huge role helping small businesses in the community grow. Through chamber participation, business owners gain plenty of perks, including educational services. Through their partnership with the Hillsborough County Small Business Information Center (SBIC), Chamber members can take advantage of free small business counseling sessions and can participate in the free monthly SBIC Working Smarter Workshops, focusing in November on “Doing Business With

Local Government” and “MBE/SBE Certification.” Each year, the Chamber also takes time to celebrate those businesses that have gone above and beyond through its Small Business of the Year Awards Gala. The 32nd annual celebration took place on Thursday, October 17 at the Sheraton Tampa East hotel. Nearly 300 guests attended to hear the announcement of the 2013 Small Businesses of the Year in the categories of Home Based Business, Minority and Woman Owned Business, 1-5 Employees, 6-15 Employees, and 16+ Employees.

Finalists in each category included:

HOME BASED BUSINESS

- Sandy Cannington with ION Apparel and Advertising - Erik Butler with TakeOut Butler, LLC - Candice, Anne, and Sam Alford with Traventours Travel Designs and Traventours Group Tours

MINORITY AND WOMAN OWNED BUSINESS

- Dr. Natalie Carr with Carr Pediatric Dentistry - Julianne Pomeroy with Julie’s Walk-In Closet - Ingrid Hooglander with The Law Office of Ingrid M. Hooglander

1-5 EMPLOYEES

- Judith Lambert with Lambert Law Offices, P.L. - Julie and Mike Arndt with Minuteman Press - Brad Bridges with You Say When Yogurt Shoppe

6-15 EMPLOYEES

- Daryl Brown and Stacey Adkins with Crosstown Stor-NMore Self Storage, LLC - Jeffrey Stone with Brandon Open MRI - Bob Bivins and John Hemenway with Bivins and Hemenway, P.A.

16+ EMPLOYEES

- Chris and Bernadette Pello with Livingstone Academy - Paul Senory and Stacie Senory Miller with Sencommunications, Inc. - Anne Renee Rehm and Sue Smith with Delaney Creek Lodge

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS Home Based Business - TakeOut Butler, LLC Minority and Woman Owned Business Carr Pediatric Dentistry 1-5 Employees - You Say When Yogurt Shoppe 6-15 Employees - Brandon Open MRI 16+ Employees - Sencommunications, Inc.

ALL ABOUT THE STORIES

According to Simpson, what set this year’s group of winners apart were their stories: “The process of choosing the winners remains the same each year, but what generally had people rising to the top this year were their stories—the obstacles they’ve overcome to find success…On the night of the gala, they were able to show their personalities and motivate others in the process.” One story that stood out was the winner of the 1-5 Employees category, You Say When Yogurt. What started as a small frozen yogurt shop in the Westfield Brandon Mall has grown to over 23 locations nationwide—with 19 in Hillsborough County alone, and others springing up around parts of Central Florida, Georgia, and even Maryland. A You Say When Yogurt franchise is also currently under construction in North Carolina. “Our initial Brandon location has been critical to the overall success of the business,” said owner Brad Bridges. Sencommunications, Inc. also boasts a great, feel-good story when it comes to family-owned business.

Owner Paul Senory moved to Brandon back in 1971. During that time Route 60 was composed of just two lanes. With little development, Senory’s wife didn’t want to leave her South Tampa home for a new one in Brandon. “She said, ‘There’s not a shopping center, a grocery store, a doctor. There’s nothing in Brandon except cows,’” said Senory. However, they finally made Brandon their home and started a telecommunications business from there that now does millions of dollars in sales each year. “It’s not something we’ve ever planned,” said Stacie Senory Miller, who runs the business alongside her father, brother, and husband. What makes Sencommunications’ story even more impressive is that they won the Chamber’s Small Business of the Year award 17 years ago, and by continually innovating and evolving their company, they’ve been able to survive and succeed in a highly competitive market and won yet again.

PASSION FOR THE COMMUNITY

This year’s group of finalists also stood out in community service. “Our winners can be considered Brandon’s ‘hidden gems,’ businesses our residents don’t really know about, but do so much for the community,” said Simpson.

wouldn’t be where it is today without the help of the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce. Not only do they provide great educational opportunities to improve their day-today operations, but the Chamber offers several networking sessions each month where members are able to meet, mingle, and build important relationships. Sandy Cannington of ION Apparel and Advertising—a home based business finalist—stated, “The Chamber really gave us a center to network and build business really quickly. That led to a lot of referrals and word of mouth business, and it has just really blossomed into the strongest business force we could have.” Bridges added, “The Chamber has put us in touch with our T-shirt designer, our contractor, our accountant, and so much more. These are all relationships that started, developed, and were nurtured through the Chamber.” Each month, Chamber members can enjoy Business After Hours (Nov. 12, 5:30 p.m., Bahama Breeze), Networking at Noon (Nov. 19, 12 p.m., Fred Astaire Dance Studio), and Coffee Club (Nov. 26, 8 a.m., Chamber of Commerce) events. A special congratulations goes out to all small business finalists and award winners. We appreciate all the work you do to sustain and grow our local community and economy. Keep up the great work!

In fact, Jeffrey Stone of Brandon Open MRI (winner of the 6-15 employees category) stated, “If you can’t run a business that helps the community, there’s no use running the business in the community.” You Say When Yogurt is one business that’s been highly involved in the local community: “I’m proud of the jobs we’ve been able to create over the past five years in this economy, and I’m proud of our community involvement through churches, schools, and sports teams,” said Bridges. “We’ve done over 500 events in five years and have been able to give back a percentage of our sales to the local community.”

Minority and Woman Owned Business of the Year: Dr. Natalie Carr with Carr Pediatric Dentistry. (3rd from left)

Winner of the Home Based Business category, Erik Butler of TakeOut Butler added, “It’s being out with the public that energizes us, that gives us a purpose in the community and establishes credibility with our great restaurant partners and our customers.”

INFLUENCE OF THE CHAMBER

Many winners and finalists suggested that their business

16+ Employees Business of the Year: Stacie Senory Miller and Paul Senory with Sencommunications, Inc. (3rd & 4th from left) FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON NOVEMBER 2013

NOVEMBER 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

AKES THE DREAM WORK M K R O W M A E ” “T - Story by Cheryl Johnston -

Some stories are too big for words —and this is one of those. Most agree that American military Veterans have paid an inestimable price for the freedoms we share and expected little in return. Thankfully, the grateful citizen volunteers in more than 142 community-organized “hubs” of the National Honor Flight Network donate countless hours to demonstrate appreciation for their sacrifice, before it’s too late. Honor Flight of West Central Florida guardians and WWII Veterans take a moment to pause at the entrance to the World War II Memorial during a day trip to Washington, D.C. Photo courtesy of Marie Gilmore, Osprey Observer

“We can’t all be here. Some of us have to stand on the curb and clap as they go by.” - Will Rogers

The program that began in 2005 offers willing WWII Veterans an all-expenses paid trip to see America’s tribute to their service, the magnificent memorials on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Honor Flight of West Central Florida, our regional 501(c)(3) hub chartered in early 2011, will sponsor Honor Tour #15 within two weeks, a remarkable accomplishment. For a visual treat, visit the HFWCF Facebook page and honorflightwcf.org to see heartwarming photos and updates from the public “Welcome Home” celebrations for returning Veterans at the end of each daylong trip. To shine a spotlight on the Brandon area communities’ roles and contributions, Focus met recently with HFWCF President Jim Haake, co-founder Leonard Black, three other WWII Veterans and four volunteer guardians. Their dedication will inspire you. FOCUS MAGAZINE: Have you made the trip with the Veterans and volunteers? JIM HAAKE: Not yet, because my job is to ensure that all functions pre-flight, during the flight, and after the flight are in place. We have trained Flight Leaders and Bus Captains who ensure the care and safety of our veterans. I will start flying in March 2014.

WWII Veteran Ben Yocom stands with his guardian Rob Silver at the World War II Memorial during Honor Flight of West Central Florida’s day trip to D.C. to thank the veterans for their service during WWII. Photo courtesy of Marie Gilmore, Osprey Observer

FOCUS: What missions are coming up and which have seats still available? HAAKE: We completed four in our inaugural year (2011), with four more in 2012. Mission #14 flew from St.Petersburg-Clearwater on October 29, 2013 and Mission #15 FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON NOVEMBER 2013

departs November 12, 2013, the first from Lakeland Linder Regional Airport. Mission #16 will fly in March. We have eight to ten more planned for 2014, if grateful Americans continue to supply funding. The wait list by the end of 2013 will be about 250. Prior to Mission #14, HFWCF had flown 941 veterans to see their memorials. Think of HFWCF having all the functions of a small company: Admin, HR, transportation, media, operations, logistics, fundraising, community outreach, etc. Each mission touches more than 1,000 people when you account for Veterans, guardians, family, relatives, friends, patriotic citizens, our board of directors, and our most important asset, our volunteers.

FOCUS: Volunteers love Honor Flight, too! MARIE GILMORE (editor, Osprey Observer): Honor Flight is one of the more rewarding projects I’ve ever have been involved in. To spend the day with a member of our living history books is an amazing experience, and these “Greatest Generation” men and women are still here to teach us the patriotism and work ethic that made our country great. I encourage people—get involved as a volunteer, as a guardian or even to attend a “Welcome Home” reception, and experience the awesome honor of welcoming our World War II Vets home from their final mission. SANDI BEST (The Pillow Ladies and Sew Much Comfort seamstresses create pillows for Veterans to use on the trip and modify clothing for Veterans at James A. Haley VA Hospital): What a privilege to be an Honor Flight guardian and volunteer. Spending the day with a member of the “Greatest Generation” at the World War II Brandon and Riverview area businesses teamed together to support Mission #13 Honor Flight of West Memorial is an honor you’ll cherish forever. Central Florida to fly 80 World War II Veterans and 80 guardians on a once-in-a-lifetime trip

FOCUS: Can you name a few organizations that have provided exceptional support to HFWCF? HAAKE: Allegiant airlines- 13 missions; McDonald’s- flight day breakfast, 15 times; Suncoast Hospice- hosting orientations, 14x; Support the Troops- food service, 15x; Knights of Columbus- donated 100-plus wheel chairs to HFWCF; recently deceased Representative C.W. Young; Tampa Bay Lightning- $50,000 donation; Lakeland Community Foundation- $35,000 donation; America Legion 252$25,000 donation; St. Petersburg Clearwater Airport-12 departures/arrivals; and the list could go on and on. FOCUS: Has any one experience in particular impacted you? HAAKE: Recently a daughter who had made the trip with her father called me after his death. She said, “I want to thank Honor Flight for giving me the best day I ever had with my Dad.” Until then, I’d not realized how much the Veteran’s trip impacts the family. I can’t stop thinking about her words.

FOCUS: Tell us about our area’s effort and results. HAAKE: As part of the Network, HFWCF provides “Honor Tours” for Veterans in the Tampa Bay area. The Brandon community group has embraced this mission, which is indeed an urgent one, because approximately 700 area Veterans die each day. In memory of their fathers and grandfathers, more than 23 Greater Brandon businesses and 200 volunteers have now fully sponsored two flights and raised $60,000 so far in 2013. For each flight they’ve been involved with and through significant corporate sponsorships and individual donor support, the Brandon group not only secures donations of $25,000, but also supplies their own guardians who pay $400 each to fly. I can’t say enough about how much this community has helped to make this dream a reality for so many Veterans. FOCUS: OK, so now let’s hear from the Veterans: Leonard Black, Nat Storms, and Ben Yocom. LEONARD BLACK: I served in the Air Force, 1945-1970, with duty tours in France, Belgium, Germany, England and then stateside at Long Island, NY; Shaw AF Base in South Carolina; the Pentagon and with the Air Commandos in Louisiana. I was a Chief Master Sergeant. After helping Fred Olson establish the West Central Florida hub, I flew as an Honor Flight observer in June 2011. When I flew again as a Vet, myself and another Vet didn’t have guardians, so we toured together. The highlight for me was being joined by Ann Left, a 100-year-old Women’s Army Corps Veteran, to

NOVEMBER 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

present the wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington. My older brother took the flight in 2006, but he died before I became involved. The thank you letters we’ve received from appreciative Veterans who made connections with others who had lived those military experiences always give me new energy for the effort.

to Washington, D.C. Photo courtesy of Marie Gilmore, Osprey Observer

NAT STORMS: I was an Army-Air Force corporal, serving as an aircraft mechanic crew chief. We worked on the B-29s in the Philippines during the period they gained independence. Although I’d been to Washington several times previously, my Mission #7 tour was the first time I saw the beautiful WWII Memorial. The cleanliness and the respect visitors showed by not sitting on the memorial or tossing money into the fountains really impressed me. This event was the most well-organized I’ve ever attended, from start to finish. It was wonderful meeting so many WWII Veterans and all the guardians were so helpful. I’ll remember this trip for the rest of my life. The Lord’s been good to my family and we’ve tried to do what He expects. This whole experience humbled me because I didn’t deserve any recognition. I did my part, but it wasn’t much. The “mail call” letters we received from family, schoolchildren and even strangers during the flight home were tearjerkers. BEN YOCOM: I was a Sergeant in General Patton’s 3rd Army, 178th Combat Engineers. On November 4th my beautiful wife Betty and I will celebrate our 69th anniversary. She’s been beside me every step of the way. After Europe, I ended my term as a motorpool sergeant at the Nuremberg supply depot. HFWCF is a first-class, exceptionally organized operation from beginning to end, with so many helpful people working toward one goal. Even at the orientation, it was “Can I get you a cup of coffee or water?” From then on, it was, “Can I…can I…(do whatever you need...).” Several things impressed me. The breakfast buffet conversations with our guardians and other Veterans helped us get acquainted. Then in Baltimore, hundreds of ordinary people welcomed and surprised us with flags, smiles, handshakes and hugs. We had ample time at the monuments. On the return flight, the pilot stepped into the cabin and announced, “Mail Call.” Each Veteran received a manila envelope filled with letters and artwork from children, family members and even strangers. There wasn’t a dry eye on the plane after that. Later, my great grandson Nic Randall’s teacher, Mr. Fuller, invited me to share for 90 minutes with two 5th grade classes at Collins Elementary. They listened well and asked great questions afterward. Then I was able to send thank you letters to each child, along with a Chick-fil-A coupon, generously supplied by the Holmbergs. I would say that 99 percent of Honor Flight Veterans call this trip the high point of their lives. We had never felt so appreciated.

PAUL & TAMMY HOLMBERG (Chick-fil-A owners): WWII military veterans of the USA are heroes. The task before them was almost beyond our comprehension. What they did for their country and the world continues to be a source of liberty and hope for all, especially today. Their physical stature may be less than what it was, but they are and will remain giants of our country’s history. What an honor and privilege it has been to be Honor Flight guardians and to spend even one day with them. FOCUS: Thank you, Jim and friends, for sharing your stories. Tell us now how we can best help. HAAKE: Be aware that our freedoms today are a direct result of what 16 million WWII Veterans accomplished, not only for us, but also for the world. Only approximately 1.3 million remain. Approximately 32,000 of Florida’s 321,000 survivors reside in the West Central Florida district, and we must enable those who wish to see their memorials to the nation’s capitol. Approximately $55,000 per flight is needed to cover air transportation, motorcoaches, food and beverages, wheelchairs and other materials. We have a huge challenge. To continue honoring our heroes in the manner they deserve, tax-deductible donations from grateful Americans and area corporations are key! So donate today and often. Also, please volunteer or accompany a Veteran as their trip Guardian. Your energy helps the thousands of local Veterans enjoy their Honor Flight and it will be a lifelong memory for you. To offer your assistance, phone 727-498-5079 or apply at honorflightwcf.org. Note to readers: Presently, first priority for Honor Flight trips is to the most senior warriors and those terminally ill, but future missions will include Veterans of the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and all other wars in chronological order. They, too, have sacrificed much, and HFWCF hopes to demonstrate their efforts are not forgotten.

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON NOVEMBER 2013

NOVEMBER 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

BUSINESS » PROFILE

WE FIX IT BRANDON BUSINESS PROFILE Profile by Amanda Deck

he first electronic computers were developed in the 1940s, originally the size of a large room and used for military applications. According to Time Magazine, the 1946 ENIAC device, composed of 40 eight-foot high racks and 18,000 tubes, helped calculate ballistic trajectories. Another computer developed in 1954, SAGE, weighed 300 tons.

how to fix every part associated with smart phones—from digitizers to LCD screens.

It’s obvious that technology has come a long way, as computers can now fit in the palm of our hands. In fact, the current smart phone can ultimately do more than a standard PC. It’s a PDA, television, camera, video camera, walkie-talkie, sound recorder, web browser, GPS, gaming system, mp3 player, and more all rolled into one tiny portable device.

“We don’t just fix iPhones,” said Chris, “but any brand from any carrier. Basically, we repair any smart phone—all makes and models.”

While technology has evolved, society has evolved right alongside of it as today’s population needs to be in constant contact with one another. As a result, damaged mobile devices can cause severe problems in our working and social lives. And when your phone breaks and your warranty is up, resorting to purchasing a brand new phone can cost hundreds of dollars. Four years ago, when devices like the HTC Dream and iPhone were flying off the shelves, Chris Rodriguez understood the power smart phones would eventually have on our lives. He enrolled in a one month class in San Antonio where he learned

However, Chris prides himself in giving customers another choice—fixing their device at a lower, more reasonable price. With much education under his belt, Chris can repair almost anything from software to charging ports and can perform phone reloads and unlocks.

mouth advertisement, which Chris attributes to We Fix It’s high quality work and quick turnaround time.

“We usually beat competitors’ prices and also do price matches,” said Chris.

If your phone’s screen is cracked or your tablet’s digitizer is broken, stop by We Fix It, located in Verizon Wireless, today. Chris and Robert will be happy to put your life back on track by fixing your handheld electronic device.

We Fit It also offers a 90-day warranty on parts and labor, where most mobile device repair shops only give 30 days.

INFORMATION

Because of We Fix It’s low prices— along with the rise of smart phones and tablets purchased—the repair shop has seen tremendous growth. It has also been attracting more business through word of

We Fix It 1019 Bloomingdale Ave. Valrico, Florida 33596 Phone: 813-388-1651

Now Chris can do more than simply sell phones at the Verizon Wireless location at 1019 Bloomingdale Avenue in Valrico. He brings a little extra to the table and has established “We Fix It” with Robert Reese, a center for repairing mobile devices.

We Fix It, which was started in October 2012, also repairs tablet PCs like the popular iPad, Google Nexus, and Samsung Galaxy Note. And what a better time for Chris to start We Fix It as, earlier this year, the International Data Corporation (IDC) market research firm calculated that smart phones now outsell the traditional, cell phones worldwide— capturing 51.6 percent of the mobile market. Accidents seem to happen at the most unfortunate times, and when it comes to smart devices, damage tends to occur right when the warranty is up. The cost to fix the device or purchase a new one usually falls near the same price point. Therefore, buying a new device is usually the wisest option. FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON NOVEMBER 2013

SPORTS » TEAM OF THE MONTH

ARMWOOD VARSITY FOOTBALL TEAM

SPORTS TEAM OF THE MONTH Article by Deana Garrison

n searching for the right team to represent the Team of the Month, I have to say, I am usually very picky. However, this month the choice was really easy. It didn’t take much thinking to realize the Armwood Varsity Football Team deserved this title. Their skills shine on the field, and their teamwork is quite amazing. To have an undefeated team is the dream of every coach around. Sean Callahan is living that dream currently with an 8-0 overall record. Callahan has been the Hawks’ head coach for over 20 years. His success is believed to be stemmed from the longevity of the staff—he has had assistants stay for over 15 years. Prior to this season, Callahan’s

Defensive Coordinator of 10 years left to take the head coaching job at Jesuit. Darrell Palmer took over as the Defensive Coordinator, and the defense has not missed a beat. Assistant Coach Evan Davis has been with the Hawks since 2005. He was a player for the Hawks for three years prior and started coaching the JV team before joining Callahan with Varsity. Davis admires Callahan for his hard work and dedication to the team. Davis said, “Callahan is a phenomenal motivator. He lets his coaches coach and puts his players in the best position to be successful.” His positive role certainly shows in their season’s outcome. This team is ranked number two in Class 6A. They pull through with a rank of 77 in

the nation. Their defense—led by Safety Kyle Gibson, Vanderbilt commit Hyriam Fredricks, and Juniors Byron Coward and Jordan Griffin—ranks number two in the state and has let up an average of 3 points a game through eight games. The offense, headed by junior quarterback Noah Johnson, is outstanding as well scoring an average of 28 points a game. With a 7-0 district record, the Hawks won the Class 6A District 8 championship in the eight-team district labeled the “District of Death” that includes King, Lennard, Leto, Jefferson, Robinson, Hillsborough, and Blake High Schools.

Evan Davis is very proud of the team. He proclaimed, “The team came in with question marks as the previous season they had gone 9-4 and lost in the regional finals… the worst finish for the Hawks since 2009. This season started with Armwood’s toughest games in the coming weeks 2-5, facing Hillsborough, Robinson and Jefferson back to back to back. The Jefferson game was the game that propelled the team into the level that they believed they would be successful. Finishing these games undefeated set the season on the right track as the Hawks won their district and sealed a playoff berth for the 13th consecutive season.” The school spirit is in full swing right now at Armwood. With playoffs in their future, the Hawks stand a great chance of becoming State Champs yet again. With their hard work and dedication, this team certainly deserves the title. We can’t wait to see the final results of the season. Good luck Hawks. Show them your talent!

The undefeated Armwood High School Varsity Football Team, who recently captured the district title, looks forward to a successful playoff run. Photo courtesy of Armwood High School

NOVEMBER 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

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SPORTS » ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

KARLIE REED

ATHLETE OF THE MONTH W Article by Deana Garrison

ho said a girl can’t play football? If you have the assumption that girls are just not cut out to play on a football team, you may want to meet 12 – year-old Karlie Reed. Reed is number 99 on the J.V. Dover Patriots and has the greatest respect from all of her teammates. She is a sweet young lady off the field, but put her in football gear and it’s game on! She plays offensive and defensive tackle and definitely holds her own. You will never hear any whimpering from her; however, you may hear some sounds of the other players after she takes them down. Many boys don’t want to admit they have been taken down by a girl, but Reed doesn’t give them any slack.

Dalton McMath knows both sides. He has played against Karlie on an opposing team and now plays with her on the same team. McMath says, “I have learned to never underestimate Karlie just because she’s a girl. She is a tough, hard-working player, as well as well as a great team leader. She will take you down on the field!” Reed started out playing flag football when she was five years old. When that season was over, her dad, Scott Reed received a call

from a coach asking him if he would consider letting his daughter play tackle. When asked, Karlie quickly agreed and has been playing tackle for six years. Since then, Scott has received more calls which include the Plant City Raiders Elite Travel Football Team that she recently joined which included players up to 300 pounds. She was the only girl and had no problem holding her own against many bigger boys. She is definitely not intimidated and certainly not afraid. She says, “I like football. It is a lot of fun.” Karlie seems to be a well-rounded athlete with many skills. Not only is she a football player, but she also participates in basketball, soccer, track, and softball. The best part about this skilled athlete is her academics. She is a straight “A” student and takes her academics very seriously. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for this outstanding athlete. Congratulations Karlie Reed, for being FOCUS Magazine’s Athlete of the Month!

Karlie Reed of the Dover Patriots is Focus Magazine’s November Athlete of the Month! Photo courtesy of Scott Reed

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON NOVEMBER 2013

EXTRA » BRANDON CHAMBER County Small Business Information Center (SBIC) holds FREE small business counseling every Tuesday and Wednesday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Chamber. For more information, or to schedule an appointment please call 813-689-1221.

BRANDON CHAMBER

BUSINESS BRIEFING BRANDON CHAMBER RECOGNIZES 2013 SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS!

The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce congratulates the area businesses that have been named 2013 Small Business of the Year Award winners! Nearly 300 guests celebrated the winners that were announced during a gala held October 17 inside the Sheraton Tampa East Hotel’s Grande Ballroom. The winners were: 1-5 Employees – You Say When Yogurt Shoppe 6-15 Employees – Brandon Open MRI 16+ Employees – Sencommunications, Inc. Home Based Business – TakeOut Butler Minority and Woman Owned Business – Carr Pediatric Dentistry Annually, this awards gala recognizes and honors small businesses within the Greater Brandon area that have demonstrated leadership, positive growth and development, creativity, and integrity in operating a business, as well as a commitment to community services. The 2013 event is the 32nd annual celebration of local businesses that featured an innovative theme and program including a video tribute to the 15 finalists and past winners. The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce’s 2013 Small Business of the Year Award Gala Title Sponsor was Bank

NOVEMBER 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

of Tampa-Brandon Division. Additional sponsors included Hanna, Lemar & Morris, C.P.A.’s, P.A., Tampa Bay Times, Brown’s Trophies, Inc., Celestar Corporation, Fancy That Specialty Linens, and Sheraton Tampa East Hotel.

SMALL BUSINESS EDUCATION In partnership with the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, the Hillsborough

FREE Working Smarter Workshops led by counselors of the Hillsborough County Small Business Information Center “Doing Business With Local Government” and “MBE/SBE Certification” will both be held on Tuesday, November 12 from 9 to 11 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This two part series features information about registering with Local, State and Federal Government agencies, how to find bidding opportunities and where assistance can be found. Small, Minority, Women-Owned and Veterans Business will also learn the eligibility requirements and steps to submit an application to be registered and/or certified with Hillsborough County. 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.

NOVEMBER NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES Business After Hours – Tuesday, November 12, 5:30 p.m., hosted by Bahama Breeze

Island Grille, 805 Brandon Town Center Dr., Brandon Networking at Noon – Tuesday, November 19, 12 p.m., hosted by Fred Astaire Dance Studio, 1076 E. Brandon Blvd., Ste. 114, Brandon Coffee Club – Tuesday, November 26, 8 a.m., hosted by Manpower at The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, 330 Pauls Dr., Brandon

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS BRANDON Are you under 39 years of age…or feel like it? Then this group is for you. YP Brandon inspires young professionals to lead by example, grow by association, and give back to the Brandon community. Come join the Young Professionals at O’Brien’s Irish Pub, 701 W. Brandon Blvd., Brandon, on Thursday, November 7 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, November 13 at 11:45 a.m. at Wok Chi, 2420 W. Brandon Blvd., 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.

FOCUS MAGAZINE BRANDON NOVEMBER 2013

D & E » DINING PROFILE

WOK CHI BRANDON DINING PROFILE O

ne of Brandon’s newest restaurants is working hard to reinvent the concept of Chinese food in America. Wok Chi, located in the Regency Square Plaza, has gone back to the basics when it comes to serving food fast. Therefore, rather than deep frying ingredients, Wok Chi utilizes the authentic Asian art of wok searing. “What you see is what you get at Wok Chi,” said Associate Manager Daniel Williamson. “No hormones, no preservatives, no byproducts— we use only good, natural ingredients the way they are meant to be cooked.” Associate Manager Melany Petrella added, “We’re not a buffet line. Our food doesn’t sit in a steam table. Our guests can see everything going on in our open kitchen. They can see exactly what’s going into the wok for their specific order.” Wok Chi’s menu is easy to navigate. Start your order by choosing your flavor: Zesty Orange, Ginger Sesame, Sweet and Sour, Spicy Szechwan, Kung Pao, and General Not-So-

Profile by Amanda Deck Tso’s (Wok Chi’s take on the original). Guests can also try one of Wok Chi’s two newest flavors—Citrus Lemon Plum and BBQ Black Bean.

After selecting your stir fry flavor, pick your protein (chicken, pork, beef, shrimp, or organic firm tofu), your favorite vegetables, and a rice or noodle base. If you’re feeling extra hungry, add on a delicious dim sum appetizer such as spring rolls, wonton soup, BBQ pork baos, and more. Another option, the crispy crab rangoons—filled with cream cheese, scallions, and crab meat—are absolutely amazing! Satisfy your sweet tooth with Wok Chi’s trademark Chi-Bon desserts. We suggest the custard version, filled with warm coconut custard and topped with a powdered sugar dusting. Once you’ve completed your order, serve yourself at the Coca-Cola Freestyle machine, which features over 100 soda options, or try one of Wok Chi’s refreshing fresh-brewed organic teas. A sauce bar is also available to

Pictured here is General Not-So-Tso’s stir fry, a custard Chi-Bon, and Crab Rangoons. Photo by Amanda Deck

help add an extra “kick” to your stir fry or dim sums. While you’re waiting for the Wok Master to complete your order and for a staff member to bring it directly to your table, relax with a cup of hot tea, compliments of Wok Chi’s Green Tea Initiative “Any time you are invited into someone’s home in China, you’re welcomed with a cup of green tea,” said Petrella. “At Wok Chi, we welcome you into our home and our family by offering complimentary green tea.” Be sure not to pass up this extra treat. It’s delicious, especially the organic jasmine flavor. Wok Chi also offers complimentary strawberry fortune cookies – be careful not to spoil your meal! By offering fresh, healthy dishes in a clean, modern atmosphere, Wok Chi truly keeps the “chi” flowing, which is the restaurant’s mission. Their goal is to help increase your chi—the life energy force that helps you reach your full potential.

Once you place your order, take a seat and allow the wok masters to make your dish in the wide-open kitchen. Photo by Amanda Deck

NOVEMBER 2013 thefocusmagazine.com

Wok Chi also strives to spread chi outside of its four walls by participating in the community. Although the Brandon Wok Chi is the brand’s first location, each future establishment will partner with non-profit organizations in its

immediate area. Wok Chi Brandon has helped sponsor community outreaches to benefit the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center and will be donating to ECHO, a non-profit that provides food to Brandon families in need. “If you take all of our special ingredients that go into each wok and the wok gets anywhere between 900 and 1,200 degrees, you’re taking all those diverse seasonings, sauces, ingredients, and making them one,” said Petrella. “In the same way, Wok Chi works to take everyone— all personalities, cultures, and lifestyles—in the surrounding area and making them one community. We want to impact everyone’s palates and everyone’s personalities.” Wok Chi was established to make your life stress-free and full of chi. Make your day a little better and treat yourself to a healthy bowl of authentic Asian stir fry. Dine in, or order online or by phone to carry out.

INFORMATION Wok Chi 2420 West Brandon Boulevard Brandon, FL 33511 Phone: 813-315-9877 Web: wokchi.com

‘88 & Older Cars & Trucks Nov Feature: Mustangs & Thunderbirds Antiques, Customs, Classics, & Hotrods 50’s, 60’s, & 70’s Music Vendors & Crafters Kids Activities For More Information Contact the Local Shops & Plant City Chamber of Commerce Restaurants open late 800-760-2315 or 813-754-3707 www.plantcity.org (click on events)

PLANT CITY 11TH Annual

PIG JAM

WIN A: