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november 2010 volume 6 issue 11
101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563 Phone 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990
Publisher Mike Floyd
FAMILY OF COMMUNITY MAGAZINES
Office Manager dede Floyd Copy Editor lynne Warren Cheryl Johnston Sales Sophia Hyde Sheryl Vitelli Holly Farmer Brent Simmons linda Simmons
ONTHECOVER brandy lansford and mandy petcoff photo by tony cartagena
7 FOCUS
Plant City Lakeland Brandon Winter Haven Lake County South Tampa
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MYFOCUSTV.COM Local Community Stories
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FOCUSTV Brandon Hyde kelleigh klein Distibution doug Mcgee Belva deVane
lOCal
Lakeland and the surrounding areas are such great communities where the residents there seem to understand what is important in life - it is all about community. Find out about some events and local people that continue to make Lakeland an amazing place to live.
FeaTURe
Energize your body, mind and soul through dance lessons at Sapphire Dance Studio. For great social events or to train for “Dancing with the locals,” see the Suttons!
FOCUSTV
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Production anthony Sassano Tony Cartagena
SPOTligHT
The Junior League of Greater Lakeland works year ‘round to benefit numerous charitable organizations. This can only be accomplished with the help of dedicated women volunteers like Brandy Lansford and Mandy Petcoff, co -chairs of this very successful year’s Christmas Parade.
dining ReVieW
In 1975, three friends opened the first CDB Italian Restaurant near USF in Tampa. From that humble beginning, eventually six more locations were added. If you’ve never eaten at a CDB’s gathering place, don’t wait any longer to try some of the best Italian food and pizza in Polk County.
Photographers Suzanne gallagher Billy Friend lori Blaser Tony Cartagena Staff Writers Brian West John Ross Cheryl Johnston Brent Simmons kristi linbaugh Contributors al Ruechel Bruce Rodwell gil gott Jo-an lusk nate davis natalie Sweet Felix haynes derek Maul STANDARDS OF ACCURACY The goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-war ming 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 infor m 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. Readers who wish to respond to an article – not correct facts – can do so by writing a letter to the editor. If you need any other type of assistance, then please view the directory for the appropriate department. The staff at FOCUS Magazine is committed to serving their consumers and customers to the fullest of abilities. You’re paying attention to our words. Let us pay attention to yours. FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants and many local venues. Letters, Questions and Comments can be sent to us at editorial@floydpublications.com. 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. published by:
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FOCUS Magazine lakeland december 2010
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letter from the publisher
O
ne of my favorite things to do with my family is load up the truck and boat and hit the lake. We love to go wake boarding, water skiing, and tubing. We have gotten better over the years, but we still have some good crashes from time to time.
It’s not NEWS, It’s LIFE. It’s about you. Have a Story to tell? We are always looking for a good story on people or organizations making a positive difference in the community - email us at: editorial@floydpublications.com
My youngest, Zy, is about three-and-a-half and we’ve been taking him out on the boat with us for a couple years now. Before he could even talk, he would crawl into the kiddy pool at the house dragging along a wakeboard handle. He would hold it out and then crash into the water, just like he had seen his dad and brother do. He would make you pull on the rope as he continuously crashed into the water. He’s still not old enough to get his own pair of skis or board, but we’ll put him in the tube and ride him around. However, we’re facing a new challenge right now. Every time we ask him what he wants for Christmas this year, he gives the same detailed response. He wants a truck that looks exactly like dad’s truck but his size that he can actually drive. Plus, he wants a boat that looks exactly like dad’s boat (and he even describes the red stripes). He says that he wants to hook his boat to his truck, climb in with his best friend, and drive the truck out to the swimming pool. Then, he and his best friend are going to get into their own boat and wakeboard in the swimming pool. Yes, I agree with you that this sounds adorable, but as parents we can’t figure out how to remotely come close to pulling it off. He is so excited about Santa bringing him his own truck and boat just like daddy’s, and we don’t want to disappoint him. I’m sure my wife and I will find wonderful gifts for him, and on Christmas morning he will be so enthralled by those that he will completely forget about the wakeboarding boat. But his repetition of this desire has left a real impact on me. Zy describing the details of the truck and boat, and seeing him imitate my crashes before he could even imitate my words has really opened my eyes to see how closely our children are watching us. Actions truly do speak louder than words and our children are watching everything we do. For most of their childhood, they want to be just like mommy and daddy, regardless of the flaws they somehow don’t notice. Being a parent is a lot of responsibility in general, but sometimes I feel a tremendous weight of pressure when I realize the significant impact I am leaving behind in these children who are watching my every move. To all of the parents reading Focus this month, isn’t this such a humbling experience? It’s both flattering and scary at the same time. This month we featured the Junior League of Greater Lakeland. An organization full of individuals who are leaving a legacy not only in children’s lives, but the entire community. Make sure you check out their in-depth interview to get a full grasp of the impact they are making on the greater Lakeland area.
Mike Floyd Publisher
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Local » Focus
23rd Annual Lakeland Margarita Ball Benefits Children for Christmas T Written By: Taylor Flumerfelt
he Lakeland Margarita Society hosted its 23rd Annual Lakeland Margarita Ball on Saturday, November 20th at the beautifully lit Lake Mirror Complex. The venue has provided the perfect atmosphere for the event since the 4th annual Lakeland Margarita Ball.
Guests could either pay $50 in advance or $75 at the door. In addition, guests were required to bring an unwrapped toy, valued at $10 or more, for a child in the community between age two and 17. Manifold organizations throughout the area receive those toys and then distribute them to Polk County children for Christmas. A few of those organizations include Big Brothers & Big Sisters, Speak up for Children’s Guardian-Ad- Litem Program, Polk County Christmas Angels, The Salvation Army, Heartland for Children, Central Florida Speech & Hearing Center, and numerous
others.
Clinton Wallace, one of the Lakeland Margarita Society’s original founders, describes the purpose of this event to be “to make the Christmas season a little brighter for the underprivileged children in the Lakeland area.” He brought the Margarita Ball to Lakeland after he was inspired by a similar function in Orlando to benefit children who are less fortunate. “It is the most fun party to attend in Lakeland, and for a fantastic cause,” explained Wallace.
ball through a green balloon arch where they were able to drop off their toys. Local vendors including Fred’s Market Restaurant, Grillsmith, Texas Cattle Company, and Mojo’s Wings, Burgers, & Beer lined the area surrounding Lake Mirror and its brightly lit, floating Christmas tree. While indulging in refreshments, guests enjoyed the classic rock and roll music of Cactus Jack and the Cadillacs, who have provided entertainment for this event for the past 22 years.
Wallace is only one of 25 men who made the Lakeland Margarita Ball possible. Their willingness to contribute to the community in an extraordinary way has changed thousands of lives.
The City of Lakeland, the Lakeland Police Department, and Badcock Home Furniture and More are just a handful of sponsors that aid the Lakeland Margarita Society in continuing to host the Lakeland Margarita Ball.
The festivities began at 8:00 p.m. with food and beverages, one of which was none other than a margarita. Guests entered the
The Lakeland Margarita Ball has grown from hosting 700 to as many as 3,000 people. Over the 22 years, thousands of toys and 1.7
million dollars have been graciously donated toward this cause. This year, approximately 2,000 guests attended the event. Over 1,800 toys and $30,000 were furnished. The ball has helped shape Polk County’s character and distinctiveness. It has also contributed to the sense of community existent in Lakeland. The function has become a vital charity as well as tradition for the City of Lakeland. Margaret Parry, event coordinator for the Lakeland Margarita Ball, noted that “5,000 children in Lakeland [will] have a brighter Christmas” due to “the generosity and hard work of the Lakeland Margarita Society and especially the generosity of the restaurants who provide the fabulous food” for the event. “The Lakeland Margarita Ball is a model of communities working together to help its youngest citizens…we are indeed blessed to live in such a caring and generous city!”
FOCUS Magazine lakeland december 2010
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Local » Focus
Jeff Jackson Charity GolfHosted by Tournament Bridgewater Written By: Cheryl Johnston
Jeff Jackson, center, is surrounded by his wife Susan (L), daughters McCall Stringer and Shawn Wallace in foreground, and son Logan Stringer (R).
L
ogan Stringer simply wants to honor his stepfather, Jeff Jackson, the one he describes as a “great man who did something he never had to do.” That something was to embrace his role as a dad to Logan, 20, and his sister McCall, 17, when Jackson married their mother Susan ten years ago. The blended family also includes Jackson’s daughter Shawn Wallace, 30. Today, Jackson, 48, is fighting the biggest battle of his life, non-Hodgkins (NHL) Stage 4 Mantle Cell Lymphoma. Having just come home after 48 days in the hospital, Jackson would like nothing better than to play golf with Logan, enjoy his daughters, and grow old with Susan. Only about 6% of NHL cases are Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), one of the rarest of the non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas. Presently, there are only about 15,000 patients in the U.S.
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Stringer, who works in maintenance at The Golf Club at Bridgewater, organized a November 6 tournament with the help of Gino Reed, a club member. The goal was to raise money to help his parents with medical bills and to show his father how many people were rooting for his recovery. Reed planned and Stringer promoted the event through a network of co-workers, club members, family and friends. In just three months, all player slots were filled and a wait list developed, such was the show of support. Springer said the event was “Great, except for the hard fact that we had to turn people away.” (The winners included: First Flight - Gary Newcomb/Tom Elfson/Justin/Ricky 54; Second - Scott Sumner/Fred Sumner/ Greg Durden/Joe Durden 65; Third - Greg Bryant/John MacMillan/A.J. Allemang/Alex Henry 67.) Jackson, who is employed by Atlantic Filter in Lakeland, was diagnosed May 27, 2010.
Friends, family, and other supporters joined the Jacksons at the Jeff Jackson Charity Golf Tournament hosted by The Golf Club at Bridgewater on November 6, 2010. The family, whose faith is strong, appreciates the prayers of other believers that chemo can begin again after Christmas. Susan Jackson is encouraged through this experience and offered, “I know how much God loves us. I can’t be mad at Him for this because He gave me a man who truly loved me, and who fell as much in love with my children as he did with me.” Stringer said, “It’s in God hands.” His sister McCall, a Tenoroc High School junior, will never forget all her stepdad Jackson has done “to point me in the right way, toward college.” His daughter, Shawn Wallace, has tremendous admiration for some changes her father had made in his life, and is also trusting God for His best. Stringer and Jackson played golf together almost every afternoon after work. In fact, he shared, “Jeff is the one who introduced me to golf. We enjoyed the time together.” In the meantime, Stringer may have found his calling - organizing charity golf events.
At this moment another friend, age 22, has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukemia. Because of the success of the tournament held to honor his father, Stringer organized one for his friend on December 5 at Bridgewater. So, what can the compassionate people of Lakeland do to help? First and foremost, pray for Jeff Jackson and for the young man with leukemia. Donations are also still being received in an account established at Mid-Florida Bank. Any branch can accept your contributions simply mention Jeff Jackson. Thank you, Polk County golfing enthusiasts. You have demonstrated that the best thing we can do for life, our own or another’s, is to get involved in the game.
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www.jessandersontalentandmodelagency.com FOCUS Magazine lakeland december 2010
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Local » Focus
Ride for the Red Polk County T Written By: Taylor Flumerfelt
he 6th annual Polk County Ride for the Red was held Saturday, November 20th. Ride for the Red is a “pick your own” motorcycle Poker Run in which riders can choose from the Central Florida, Coast to Coast, Polk County, and Space Coast rides. Each Poker Run features a number of stops from which bikers can pick from, all of which offer various perks. The benefits of each location are listed on riders’ card pages, which allows participants to decide whether they want to partake in a short or long ride. Single riders were able to register for $20 and a rider plus a passenger for $30. Linda Scialo, event coordinator for the Polk County Chapter of the Red Cross, was inspired in 2004 by a Red Cross volunteer from Arizona to bring Ride for the Red to
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the Polk County Red Cross Chapter. Linda explained that she was determined “to do everything possible to convince the Polk County Chapter to try this event.” This function helps The Red Cross raise money in the midst of poor economic conditions and its popularity, as well as success, has made it an annual event for the Polk County Chapter. “Every year, for the past five years, watching a few hundred motorcycle riders ride with pride wearing their “Ride for the Red” red shirts as they start the ride, I couldn’t imagine this event with any other name,” Linda admitted. This year’s Polk County ride started at Honda of Winter Haven with a continental breakfast at 8:30 a.m. Riders lifted their kickstands at the end of the morning ceremony that featured the raising of
the Red Cross Flag, announcements and special acknowledgments by Eric Carroll, the posting of colors by the Boy Scouts of America, and the National Anthem by Jack Farley. Also, Chaplin Bill Sullivan from the Polk County Sheriff ’s Office wished everyone a safe ride, Eric Carroll gave a speech as well as read a poem, and Linda Scialo led the “ramp up.” After kickstands were raised at 10:00 a.m., riders traveled to a combination of four stops that included Harley-Davidson of Lakeland, Grove House Visitor Center, Bartow Chevrolet, Beef O’Brady’s Family Sports Pub in Bartow, Recreation Station at Eagle Ridge Mall, Davidson of Dundee, 2nd Gear, and Polk Outpost 27 Visitor Information Center. All riders had to meet at Mojo’s Wings, Burgers, and Beer by 4:00 p.m. The families of riders could meet them at Mojo’s to be a part of
the final festivities. At 5:00 p.m. the winners of the best, second best, and worst poker runs were announced. The winner of the best poker won received a $250 cash prize. A $150 cash prize was given to the winner of the second best poker run. The winner of the worst poker run received a $100 cash prize. Every rider had a chance to win a door prize, though, through the random drawings conducted after the awarding of the cash prizes. A total of 366 riders took part in the Poker Run, raising a sum of approximately $15,000. Each year, a number of sponsors contribute to the effectiveness of this event, including the manifold hosts of the stops along the ride, Mosaic, “The Ledger,” Florida’s Natural Growers, Indian River Transport, Fun Bike Center, and several others.
Local » Focus
Charly, a USO pin up girl with candy from the WWII era. Photo by John Ross
SUN ‘N FUN N ovember 11, 2010- The Sun ‘n Fun Campus in Lakeland hosted an eventful and creative day of activities in honor of those who have served in our nation’s military.
The day began with the first annual “Wounded Warrior Race/Walk,” hosted by the Kiwanis club of North Lakeland. Comers enjoyed some exercise while displaying recognition for our veterans as they walked the path that wound through the SUN ‘n FUN site, and proceeds were donated to the Wounded Warrior Project. “The term ‘Wounded Warriors’ refers to American soldiers who were wounded in combat,” said Roxanne Towner, a race organizer and herself a retired United States Air Force Colonel. The project’s aim is to
Hosts Themed Veterans Day Programs Written By: john ross honor and empower Wounded Warriors by raising awareness and enlist public support for their cause. At noon the Florida Air Museum (FAM) at SUN ‘n ‘FUN was filled with the patriotic sounds and voices of the Kathleen High School Band and Chorus. The free concert began at noon and featured familiar songs and music focusing on America’s proud and colorful history in honor of all veterans of military service. Members of the Central Florida Aerospace Academy and the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps represented the American flag as part of the concert. In the evening, a truly honorable and patriotic event was held - the Hangar Door Canteen Dinner/Dance & Live Auction. Upon entering, the JROTC snapped at
attention for each person to enter the hangar. Inside, the hangar was decorated to reflect the “Hangar Door Canteen” socials made famous by the United Service Organization during the World War II years. The “Over 55” Band played throughout the evening, adding to the theme. Women dressed in 1940’s costume, hairstyles and all were giving away candy dating back to the time and speaking with the veterans. While veterans and their loved ones snacked on hors d’oeuvres, we at FOCUS Magazine had the honor of interviewing some of them. Mr. Raymon Daniel, a pilot in World War II attended the dinner with this wife and was very pleased to be there. “I think it’s wonderful. A real honor, “ he said. “I flew combat in the Pacific in a Black WidowB-61,” he said, of which only a few in the
world remain. “I joined in ‘41, a year before the attack on Pearl Harbor.” He put a total of 26 years in the U.S. military and was then called to Korea to fight the war there. Ray Kruerr, infantryman of the Korean War said the event was fantastic. Asked about what he thought of his time spent in Korea, he said with a smile, “I was real happy to get out of there.” He was positioned in Okinawa at the time. Everyone enjoyed drinks at a bar and a live auction was held. Pictures were taken next to a plane with women in 1940’s dress. SUN ‘n FUN plans aviation themed activities regularly and will host a similar event next year. Their website is www.sun-nfun.org.
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featureÂť sapphires dance studio
c r e at i n g a c e l e b r at i o n o f t h e s o u l SapphireS TeacheS Dance To all ageS Written by: BrIaN WEST
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Feature» Sapphires Dance Studio
D
ancing is experienced all over the world, and in many different cultures, and people have varying ideas and opinions about it. But there’s one saying that definitely applies; don’t knock it until you try it. People of all ages experience dancing for a myriad of reasons. It’s a social experience while attending events and occasions like weddings and fundraisers, or it can be something you do when you’re just spending time out with friends. Sapphires Dance Studio is working to help everyone experience the joy of dancing. Sapphires Dance Studio is located on South Florida Avenue directly across the street from the Reece Cliff Restaurant. The studio opened September 17, 2007 – and moved to its current location in March 2010. Now, more than 3 years later, the studio is experiencing success and finding its place in the community. Faye Sutton and her husband, Carlos, were about to celebrate a special occasion a few years ago and she wanted to learn to dance. She looked through the phone book and found the Author Murray Dance School. Carlos called the studio to inquire about lessons. Rios answered the phone, and because he sounded nice, they scheduled an appointment. They met with Rios and took several lessons. Sutton wanted to learn a Waltz to “Don’t you Know” by Della Reece, although she says, “I’m still trying to learn that dance.” She and Carlos did learn the dance, and later danced outside in their backyard for that special occasion – their 30th wedding anniversary. Lynda Taylor had always wanted to dance, even as a child, but played piano instead. A few years ago, she called around town and found Rios. Feeling comfortable with him, she started taking lessons. She eventually met Sutton and the two became friends. They eventually learned that the Author Murray studio was closing, and Sutton found herself wanting to open a studio, but she wanted Rios to come along as the instructor. Sutton said, “And I did have to convince my husband to do this. He kept saying, ‘Faye, this isn’t good business. You’re not going to make any money.’ It took me about a year, but I convinced him to do it.” Rios agreed to come on as the instructor, and Sapphires Dance Studio was born. Rios said, “We were all at a point where we were high on life. We were all thinking, ‘We can do this.’ The next thing you know, here we are.” Taylor also became part of the staff as a dance instructor.
The story of Rios becoming a dance instructor is pretty interesting. He’d never danced in his life; never even stepped on a dance floor. Rios said, “I was pretty much the chubby, awkward kid.” He answered an ad in a newspaper that read, “No experience necessary. Will train.” He didn’t know what the job was. He went into the office, not knowing where he was and had a seat. He began talking to the couple next to him. As they talked, he got so excited about the dancing that was taking place, when the franchisee walked around the corner, the couple Rios had been talking with asked if he was going to be the new instructor. Rios laughed thinking it was a mistake. The franchisee for Author Murray asked Rios to come in Monday – Friday from 4:00 – 9:00 p.m. She agreed to train Rios everyday for 13 weeks. At the time, Rios was college bound. The class Rios worked with had 13 people, and each one of them had dance experience, except Rios and one other person. His first day, he could barely make a box – a basic dance step. Everyone thought he wouldn’t be back. He did, and within 6 or 7 weeks, he was helping to train other classes. At the end of the 13 weeks, Rios finished with 3 other people. Everyone else had dropped out. It’s kind of a testament that once he put his mind to it, he showed himself that he could do it. To make things more interesting, this was all taking place in New Orleans – 2005. Rios said, things were going well and he was talking with franchisee about opening a second school when it started to rain – 22 feet of water. Hurricane Katrina was moving across New Orleans, and things would never be the same. Rios came back to Lakeland and began instructing at the local Author Murray Dance School, and the rest is history. Today, Sapphires has five instructors – Rios, Taylor, Doerte Blake, Ric Colbum and Amanda Michie. Karen Hollon is the Chief Financial Officer, and takes care of a lot of the behind the scenes support for the Studio. The instructors are all exceptionally talented and friendly. It makes learning to dance a lot of fun, which is exactly what it should be. I asked the instructors what they like most about being dance instructors, and Ric said, “Dancing is magic. When people are dancing, they’re always smiling. A lot of good things are happening when people are dancing.” And this contributes directly to the atmosphere of Sapphires. At Sapphires Dance Studio, clients typically
come in wanting to learn to dance for a special occasion, much like Sutton did a few years ago for her wedding anniversary. Once the clients come in for lessons, it’s the instructor’s responsibility to teach them to dance, and to keep them coming back for more. And the instructors make the difference at any dance studio. Rios said, “Sapphires has taken on a life of its own now. And the instructors are the ones who have made it that way. Now when people come, they don’t want to leave.” People of all ages have been through the studio. Sutton is quick to point out, “There really isn’t an age limit.” They offer Cotillion class for children year-round, and they currently have a student that is in their mid 80’s. Unfortunately, a lot of people think dancing just isn’t something they’re capable of. Michie said, “One of the comments I get a lot is, ‘I’ve always wanted to do that.’ So I encourage them to come, maybe to a group class. Once they do, they’re hooked.” The first hurdle people have to get over is themselves. They have to get over that fear that might exist because they’ve never done it before. Rios said, “We can teach the steps, but we can’t teach confidence. Confidence will develop as they start to dance.” Colburn said, “I think our soul celebrates a little more when we dance.” And dancing alone is completely different than dancing with a partner. Blake said, “Sometimes it’s harder for people to understand that although they’ve been together for years, dancing with each other, or with someone else in front of them, is completely new and different. And then as an instructor, I have to figure out the best way to teach them because everyone learns differently.” One of the nice things about Sapphires is that they have frequent socials – typically Friday or Saturday evenings. The socials provide an opportunity for current and former students to spend time together dancing. The socials typically begin at 7:00 p.m. and last until for a few hours. They encourage everyone to bring a covered dish, and they often have 30-40 people that participate. It’s a nice way to meet others, and its just good clean fun. Rios or one of the other instructors will call out a dance style each time the music changes. Rios said, “When people come out on a Friday night, dancing in the group setting really kind of takes away the intimidation factor.” People have to get past they’re own mental barrier that can keep them from being great dancers.
long without participating, they’re likely to approach and drag them onto the floor. My wife and I recently spent several weeks taking lessons to learn a specific routine – the Bolero. But when the socials were taking place, we found ourselves shy about getting on the dance floor. It was actually nice to find that the instructors cared about us, and cared that we were enjoying ourselves. They’d pair us up with someone and give a few quick instructions for that dance, or they’d take us on the dance floor themselves as our partners. I think this approach works for them because it gets people out of their comfort zone. Not only do you find yourself dancing all kinds of different dances, but also with different people. It’s just a lot of fun. Rios said, “When you’re outside the door, you’re a student, but once you’re inside, you’re family.” Sapphires has also become involved in community activities, and they’re working hard to make a positive impact. They understand that because they live in the community, they need to give back to make it better. They’ve made donations to the local burn unit, donations to help cancer patients with the medications, participated in toy drives and food drives, and even worked with Lighthouse Ministries. All in all, Sapphires understands that they can’t truly be a part of the community without giving back, and they’re certainly doing their part. For the past 3 years, Sapphires has helped the Plant City Rotary Club with their “Dancing with the Locals” event. Ten couples are chosen to learn different routines to perform at the event, held in November at the Red Rose Ball Room. The couples were given 3 locations to choose from for lessons: Sapphires, an instructor in Plant City, and an instructor in Tampa. To the credit of Sapphires, and Rios, this year, 7 of the 10 couples chose to take their lessons with Rios. Rios had already developed a solid reputation over the previous few years as being a great instructor for the event, and as someone who has a lot of fun with the clients in the process. If you’re interested in learning to dance, you can contact Sapphires at 863-644-9828. You may have to leave a message, but they will get back with you. Tell them you read the Feature in Focus Magazine. They’ll be happy to hear from you, and you’ll be happy you’ve taken that first step – to dancing.
Everyone is encouraged to dance whenever they like, but beware. If any of the instructors notice someone sitting too FOCUS Magazine lakeland december 2010
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Junior League of greAter lAkelAnd photos by: TONy CarTagENa
The Junior League of greater Lakeland has been making a positive impact in the Lakeland community since its establishment in 1933. The organization has made a direct contribution through such projects as The Learning resource Center, the polk museum of art, the Salvation army’s halo Child Enrichment Center, and more. But most recently, the League capped off several months of planning and preparation with the City of Lakeland to organize the Christmas parade. I recently spent a few minutes with the Chairs of the event – Brandy Lansford and mandy petcoff.
Focus: How did you get involved with Junior League? Lansford: My girlfriend was in the league and spoke very highly of it. She proposed me and this is my third active year. Proposing is the process of bringing new members into the Junior League. Petcoff: We have Proposor Parties where an existing League member proposes to bring someone they’ve known for 6 months or more. They’re brought to the party to be introduced to the Junior League, to learn what the League is about, and to view a presentation on our projects and the time commitment required if the person chooses to be a member. Focus: So it’s kind of an orientation to the Junior League? Petcoff: Exactly. Then they go through a year-long provisional course. Every month they meet to get a taste of the different
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projects. The provisional year is the only time members must be involved with the Christmas Parade, unless they participate in later years as committee members or as Chairs for the event. This year, the 2010 provisional class volunteered at the Christmas Parade. Focus: The Junior League is only for females. Petcoff: Yes. It’s for females only. In the spring, we have a fair where active members can review the committees and projects to see what they might like to help out with the following year. Depending on your schedule, your commitment can be big or small. We have committees that work well for the stay-at-home mom, as well as those who work full time. As for the Christmas Parade this year, Brandy and I were the Chairs. We had two Assistant Chairs - Gina Butler and Ann Yasalonis. We also had three committee members: Kelly Abad, Melissa Gaa and Debra Wright.
Focus: How long has the Junior League been organizing the Christmas Parade? Petcoff: The League hasn’t always been involved in the Christmas Parade; Anne Furr started it 30 years ago. After heading the event for about 5 years, she brought it to the Junior League and thought it would be a great project for the League to carry out. This was our 25th year to bring this event to the community, along with the City’s Parks and Recreation Department. It is a partnership that we are very proud of.
route, and then we meet with the city to review the applications to determine who can participate. We can’t accept everyone or the parade would be just too long. So we’re very objective about only discussing what they want to do with their entry idea without discussing who they are. Those
Lansford: Magnolia Tea Room did the sugar plums from the Nutcracker and they had a really beautiful float. McKeel Academy did a Charlie Brown Christmas that was really great as well. Focus: At what point did you finally start to
Lansford: Turned out that I’d just misplaced this one file in the process of having a rental car. It was easily fixed.
Petcoff: Last year I served on the committee. It was a lot of fun to be a part of that night.
Lansford: Mandy asked me and I said, “Yes.” Having grown up going to the parade and participating in it as a child and teen, I was excited to be a part of it again! Petcoff: We had to come up with a theme. Brandy had the idea to do Christmas Stories as the theme. We went to several people to see if the theme made sense, and it did. The applicants understood it, and the participants had so much fun with it. And we we’re worried about getting repetitive stories, because we knew that people would do different interpretations. From there, we did online applications beginning June 1, 2010. Businesses, schools, churches, and non-profits all participated. We accepted applications until September. We had well over 130 applicants and ended up with 107 entries in the lineup. Lansford: It’s a difficult event to do because there’s so much planning and organization involved, and it takes about 6 months to put it together. We’re coordinating schedules and interpreting e-mails and making decisions. We have to work with the city to determine the size limitations for the entries, because we have to consider what sizes can make the turns in the route. The Parks and Recreation Department determines the
Lansford: I received an e-mail that about 30 of our media forms were missing. And you have to realize that I’d had the worst two weeks leading up to the parade. I got sick, broke a tooth and had a car accident, all within just days of the event. By the time I got this e-mail, I was spent. I broke down and started crying. All I could do was cry and say, “I don’t understand why she doesn’t have them.” Petcoff: I see her falling apart and I’m telling her, “No. We’re almost there. This is going to be fine.”
Focus: What were some of the struggles in organizing the parade?
It was something that I had a great time with. At the time, the Assistant Chairs decided they did not have enough time to fill the role of Chair the following year, so the President, Kim Elmhorst, asked me if I’d be interested in chairing the event. I must have said, “No.” at least three times. She finally said, “This is something I know you can do.” I agreed only if I could bring someone along with me to co-chair that I knew would be dependable.
parade we played tennis together and had lunch with two friends. They’ve had to listen to us this entire time.
Petcoff: And the Tuesday before I got a sinus infection. I had a high fever. I found myself at the walk-in clinic saying, “You have to make me better by Thursday.”
with the lowest votes aren’t included and the others get to participate. It is very hard to tell someone no, but those turned down are given feedback to help them for the following year. Focus: Tell me the categories and the winners this year. Lansford: There are 8 categories. The categories and winners this year were: Judges’ Choice – Polk County Veterans Council, Best Professional Float – Lakeland Pediatric Dental Care, Most Outstanding Band – Lakeland Christian School, Best Theme Float – Clark and Daughtrey Medical Group, Most Original Float – Elks Lodge, Best Youth or Educational Group Float – McKeel Elementary Academy/Cheerleaders and drum line, Best Community Float – Medulla Baptist Church and Best Business Float – Family Fun Center. A panel of judges that rate them as they drive by, and their job isn’t easy. Focus: What were some of your favorite entries? Petcoff: My personal favorite was the Polk County Veterans Council. They ended up winning an award. Their theme was a soldier’s Christmas. They had a large military vehicle pulling a trailer. Half of the trailer showed a traditional Christmas here in the states and the other half showed a typical Christmas setting in barracks where soldiers are stationed around the world. I have a nephew serving in the military right now, and that just really hit home with me.
relax after all your hard work? Petcoff: Everything up until the night of the parade was all about enforcing the rules. Rules, rules, rules, rules, rules. When it was time to start the parade, we were standing on the street watching the fireworks display over Lake Mirror. That was the first moment we were able to sit back and just experience the parade. Just before the last float with Santa and Mrs. Claus, we got to ride the parade route. We got to see the kid’s faces and it was just really special to see all the hard work come together.
The Junior League of Greater Lakeland is working hard to support the community enhancing the area to make it a better place to live. Brandy and Mandy have definitely done their part this year, and we’d like to thank them for all their hard work. If you’re interested in joining the Junior League of Greater Lakeland, visit their website at www. jlgl.com.
Focus: As you reflect on your hard work over the last 6 months, what was the most memorable moment for each of you? Petcoff: When I’d be down, Brandy would get me back up, and when she’d be down, I’d get her back up. But the Monday before the FOCUS Magazine lakeland december 2010
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Make a difference and be a volunteer
Watson Clinic Foundation, Inc.
B
eginning the summer of 2007, the Watson Clinic Foundation introduced a new program at the Center For Cancer Care & Research (CCCR) which involves wonderful outreach opportunities for cancer patients and their families. "Arts In Medicine” (AIM) is a nationwide movement that integrates the expressive arts in all forms into health care settings to provide creative outlets for patients, families and staff. The inherent goal in AIM is to humanize the care provided while offering creative channels for expression, stress reduction and enhancement of positive thought processes. There is an "artist" within each of us and no talent or training is necessary to experience the rewards of creative expression. Trained volunteers offer music, visual art, story time, lobby presentations and outreach craft programs.. These activities can be experienced on many levels. Some patients may just want to relax and listen to music during their treatment while others may need to go deeper into themselves to gain a better understanding of their situation. Whether involving painting, poetry or musical celebration, the Arts In Medicine volunteers are open and receptive to the needs of patients and their family members. “Research actually shows that creative outlets reduce anxiety in patients with cancer and blood diseases,” says Caueny Bamberg, Executive Director the Watson Clinic Foundation. “The Arts in Medicine program,” Bamberg continues, “creates an environment that is more conducive to healing, both physically and psychologically.” Further research indicates that artistic expression raises circulating endorphin and natural cancer-fighting cell levels, while cooperative play-acting and theatre games raise pain thresholds and creative writing lessens the physical symptoms of asthma and arthritis. The Arts In Medicine Team is privileged to work with patients and families at the CCCR. “Our program runs on the talents of our volunteers. Crafty, artsy or not, our volunteers compassionately give of their time and talents to benefit the wellbeing of our patients,” says Julie Boon MM, MT-BC AIM Coordinator. If you are interested in supporting this program thru the Watson Clinic Foundation, please contact Cauney Bamberg, Executive Director at (863) 802-6221 or at cbamberg@watsonclinic.com. Inquiries of becoming a volunteer or donating supplies contact Julie Boon AIM Coordinator at (863)603-4718 or at jboon@watsonclinic.com
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FOCUS Magazine lakeland december 2010
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Business profile» Lighthouse Ministries Lighthouse Ministries phone (863)687-4076. 215 E. Magnolia Street in Lakeland www.lighthousemin.org. Lighthouse Ministries was established in 1977 to serve “the last, the least, and the lost.” The core values of Jesus Christ, Truth, Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Discipline, and Unity guide every program and every decision. The ministry desires to see the individuals reach an overall outcome of God’s peace, life purpose, and fulfillment of potential. Four pathways to success serve as markers: Spiritual Growth, Community, Industry, and Education. H.O.P.E. Outreach relies on donations from community supporters. You can help by serving, too. Volunteer to work in the kitchen, at the front desk, sort clothes at the thrift shoppe, provide haircuts, or prepare/distribute food boxes in order to share Christ’s love and help those in need.
Children intuitively understand the love of Christ Photo courtesy of Lighthouse Ministries
Christmas at Lighthouse Ministries L
Lighthouse Ministries continues distributing vouchers to local churches in an effort to meet the needs of the homeless, poor, and at risk individuals and families in the community.
Written By: Cheryl Johnston
akeland is a town filled with compassionate people and compassionate organizations.
Lighthouse Ministries, Inc. is one that exemplifies the practice of hospitality, as expressed in its website welcome: “Whether you need help or you’d like to help, we have room for you here.” They also take their mission outside the walls to go where the need is, whether it’s on the street, in the company stores, or in the community. Christmas is always a busy time at Lighthouse. This year is no exception. Show your support for this amazing outreach by attending one of these December events. If you missed Holiday Fest on December 10 in Downtown Lakeland, there’s still opportunity to celebrate at the annual Lighthouse Ministries Winter Wonderland. This celebration begins Monday, December 13 and extends nightly through Wednesday, December 22 from 6-7:45 p.m. at The Jay
& Eloise Troxel Family Life Center at 215 E. Magnolia Street. Everyone is welcome to this free holiday event that includes a live nativity, animals, photos with Santa, and free toys for all kids who attend.
On Tuesday, December 21 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., the ministry will host a Christmas Food & Toy Distribution to the Community for those who made prior application. A Christmas Eve Service and Dinner on Friday, December 24 is also free and open to the public. Come to the 11:30 a.m. service to hear the message of Jesus’ birth and get a Christmas meal with all of the trimmings, served until 6:00 p.m. at the Men’s Gospel Rescue Mission at 117 E. Magnolia Street.
Brandon - 535 E. Brandon Boulevard (SR60) and Plant City - 2410 W. Baker Street (US92). Phone numbers are listed on the website. Through these stores Lighthouse provides products and clothing at reasonable prices. Within the stores, the H.O.P.E. Outreach operates to provide free case management, food, clothing, household items, furniture, toys for children, and referral services to those in need.
To learn more about its extensive work, plan a visit. Tours are scheduled from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday. Bring friends or co-workers along to see how you, your community group, your business, or your church can partner with Lighthouse Ministries to “Give Hope That Changes Lives.” For additional information or volunteer applications, phone (863)687-4076., visit In person at 215 E. Magnolia Street in Lakeland, or online at www.lighthousemin. org.
In addition to donations, another way the public can help to support the ministry’s multi-faceted work is to shop at one of its five thrift shops in Polk and Hillsborough counties. Locations are as follows: Lakeland - 114 E. Parker Street; Winter Haven - 840 6th Street NW and 3094 Havendale Boulevard; FOCUS Magazine lakeland december 2010
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entertainment » dining review apprehensive brace when you expect the biting of Cuban bread to tear up the roof of your mouth. I braced. There was no roughness. The ultimate Cuban bread. This same bread was served beforehand as an appetizer and is buttered fresh every morning. A visit to CDB wouldn’t be complete without ordering pizza. The “A-T-FM” is made with mushrooms, artichoke hearts, spiced grated Romano cheese, oregano, garlic, and Vigo oil. The name of the game with the pizza is the cheese (as it was with the Chef Salad and Hard Hat special). The large, 18-inch wide by one inch tall pizza wide is enough food to feed a family with leftovers, especially after having the salad beforehand. “You can also get the A-T-FM in the White pizza and that is phenomenal,” said Jodie.
The Steel Hat!
Photo by Tony Cartagena
CDB Italian Restaurant Authentic Italian Cooking in Lakeland C written By: John Ross
DB has been around for a while. The fact is obvious in the aged Victorian look of the outside of the restaurant. The fact is more obvious when you taste the food.
We at FOCUS Magazine came to see what the age-old talk is about. The inside of the restaurant is regal, to say the least. Orange stuccoed walls, huge everywhere, and lacquered wood furniture set a romantic tone. Seated at a very large, comfortable booth, we met Jodie, the Kitchen Manager and designer of the menu. Jodie was proud to serve up some of the restaurant’s most acclaimed authentic Italian gourmet items- the pizza, of course, along with some salads, the “Hard Hat” sandwich, and some house made sangrias. As the Chef Salad was being brought out in a large salad bowl, my first thought was how huge it was. Before I could make a joke on the size, Jodie said, “This is the
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small Chef Salad.” The best part of it were the thick cut rolls of salami and cheese set atop the salad greens and vegetables. They were asking to be eaten first, our forks stabbing right into them and delcious with salad dressing. For dressing we had a creamy Blue Cheese, and the restaurant also makes their own Italian, Sweet and Sour, and Ceasar dressing.
For drinks we were served the white and red sangria. Sprinkled with cinnamon, they are both light on the alcohol and have a nice homemade taste- perfect for dinner. Besides the taste, the fun part of the sangria is the tiny floating apple slivers on the top of the drink next to the ice- it was unexpected fun to chew on something else in a drink than just the ice! For entrees we started with the Hard Hat Special: Ham, Genoa salami, roast beef, pastrami, and melted cheese. This was a big meat and cheese delight. The Cuban bread the sandwich is served on was soft. The reader might know the subtle, almost
CDB serves up lots of other Italian favorites including Baked Spaghetti, Chicken Parmegiana, Fettucini Alfredo, and several more. Appetizers include Stuffed Mushrooms, CDB Cheese Sticks, and Squid Fra-Diablo (Squid sauteed in spicy red Diablo sauce).
the purple onion deli & Grill Phone (863) 802 - 8600 804 E. Memorial Blvd Lakeland , Fl 33801 Monday - Thursday 11am - 9pm Friday 11am - 11pm Saturday 11am - 10 pm Sunday 11am - 8pm
entertainment » event calendar
lAkelAnd
calendar of events
if you have an upcoming event and would like us to add it to our calendar of events, please email the information to: editorial@floydpublications.com
thursdAy, dec 16 » BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Hosted by: S.P.C.A., Inc., 5850 Brannen Rd S 5:30 ~ 7:30 p.m. $10 Chamber Members ~ $30 Guests Your RSVP is appreciated! Please visit the ChamberStore at LakelandChamber.com to register using a credit card, or bring cash or check to the door!
sAturdAy, dec18 » Breakfast with Santa Wakeman’s Parkview Banquet and Meeting Rm across from Munn Park From : 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM Contact Name : Julie Townsend at (863) 513-3669 Get your picture with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a yummy breakfast for the kids, and a Downtown Lakeland goodie bag filled with coupons and information.
thursdAy, dec 23 » Monty Python’s Spamalot The Lakeland Center 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM For Details contact The Lakeland Center Box Office at 863-834-8111 Contact Email : elizabeth.bass@lakelandgov.net
sundAy, dec 26 » Kwanzaa Celebration & Performance Polk Museum of Art, 800 E Palmetto St., Lakeland 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM for information
call (863) 688-7743 Kwanzaa is a celebration of AfricanAmerican culture, but this party is for everyone! Learn about the principles that Kwanzaa is founded upon, and do a little dancing with the Kuumba Dancers and Drummers of Tampa. FREE Admission
MondAy, dec 27 » Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker The Lakeland Center 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM Contact The Box Office at 863-8348111 Contact Email : elizabeth.bass@lakelandgov.net
sundAy, JAn 9 » Todd Oliver and The Dogs Gone Wild Tour The Lakeland Center 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM Contact The Lakeland Center Box Office at 863-834-8111 Contact Email : elizabeth.bass@ lakelandgov.net
MondAy, JAn 10 » Forever Plaid The Lakeland Center 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM Contact The Box Office at 863-8348111 Contact Email : elizabeth.bass@ lakelandgov.net
thursdAy, JAn 13 » Richard Nader’s Rock n’ Roll Doo Wop Party The Lakeland Center 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM Contact The Box Office at 863-8348111 Contact Email : elizabeth.bass@ lakelandgov.net
fridAy, JAn 14 » Aviation Adventures: An inspirational 8,200 mile trip to Alaska in a J-3 Piper Cub Florida Air Museum at SUN ‘n FUN 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM Contact Gail Taylor at 863-644-2431 Contact Email : gtaylor@sun-n-fun.org
tuesdAy, JAn 4 » The Color Purple The Lakeland Center 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM Contact The Lakeland Center Box Office at 863-834-8111 Contact Email : elizabeth.bass@ lakelandgov.net
thursdAy, JAn 6 » Louie Anderson The Lakeland Center 2:30 PM to 9:30 PM Contact The Lakeland Center Box Office at 863-834-8111 Contact Email : elizabeth.bass@ lakelandgov.net
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