FOCUS Lakeland 07-01 by Floyd Publications

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FeBruary 2011 voLuMe 7 issue 1

702 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Plant City 33563 Phone 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990

Publisher Mike Floyd

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Their year is about to take flight

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ONTHECOVER 7 FOCUS

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lOCal

Lakeland and the surrounding areas are such great communities where the people who reside there seem to understand what is important in life - it is all about community. Find out about some things and local people that continue to make Lakeland an amazing place to live.

FeaTURe

Educators are always on the lookout for unique ways to engage their students. Such is the case of Lori Bradner, the Science teacher at Central Florida Aerospace Academy at Kathleen High School. With assistance from Sun ‘n’ Fun, the FAA Studios, and Florida Air Museum, her diligence resulted in a downlink from the International Space Academy to the school’s 150 students.

Staff Writers Brian West John Ross Cheryl Johnston kristi linbaugh Contributors al Ruechel Bruce Rodwell gil gott Jo-an lusk nate davis natalie Sweet Felix haynes derek Maul

SPOTligHT

The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce gavel will soon pass to fifth generation Lakelander, local business woman Alice Hunt. With her passion for the community and her experience in owning a construction company with her husband Chuck, Alice Hunt has what it takes to reinforce the business support Lakeland needs in the current economic conditions.

STRaWBeRRY FeSTiVal

It’s that time of year again when our wonderful community welcomes visitors from all over the nation and the world. Have your calendar ready when you read this portion of Focus so you can plan to include the many great and many even free offerings into your schedule.

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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.

Readers, beware. If you read this review of Grill Smith, and especially if you’re hungry when you read, your taste buds and imagination will force you to make a quick trip to the restaurant for a dining sensation. Find out why diners return again and again.

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 february 2011

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n my letter last month, I wrote about how we started a new challenge for the new year. We are going to take on 11 adventures in 2011 and force ourselves to step out of our comfort zone to do something that we may not otherwise experience. There is a full article in this issue covering the story. Our first adventure was go kart racing at Ambassador Racing School in Wimauma. I think that each of the adventures will be a different experience for everyone on our staff. For me, this challenge was pure excitement. I grew up racing motocross so this was just a different type of adrenaline rush, and I was excited to get behind the wheel. However, we had one person on our staff get behind the wheel, put on her helmet, and before the cars were all started she had to get out. She said she couldn’t handle the feeling of the helmet and being in such tight quarters. Someone else got in her kart and the races continued. A little while later, a few of the drivers who were staying in the back of the pack and not really aggressive on the track decided to go out for a few laps together to try and warm up to the course. She decided she would go out with them. She did a few laps and felt accomplished that she gave it a whirl and didn’t just sit on the sidelines. On the other hand, we have a few adventures planned for later in the year that I would prefer to watch from afar. Skydiving is on the list, and I have never had a desire to jump out of a plane. I have no idea how I am going to pull that one off, but I know I too cannot sit on the sidelines. Our feature this month is on the Central Florida Aerospace Academy. Recently, the opportunity was achieved for them to have a live chat with astronauts at the International Space Station. Make sure you read the fascinating story on this school and this opportunity the students had. The most interesting part to me is that the first time Lori Bradner, one of the science teachers at the school, sent in an application to NASA, they lost. Many people would have stopped there. They applied and weren’t chosen, end of story. However, she was persistent to find out why they were not chosen and other schools were. She learned of an additional opportunity, applied and the school made it through several cuts until they became one of the chosen few. Many people may give something a try and fail, then simply move on. Whether it’s getting back in the go-kart or re-applying after you get rejected, the only way to live a life of adventure is to keep risking it.

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Local » Focus

15th Annual Lakeland Pigfest BBQ, Music, Friends, Charity P

Lakeland and Girls, Inc., the event strives to increase the local quality of life. Corporate and individual donations and sponsorships support this never-ending endeavor.

Written By: Cheryl Johnston

lan now to attend the 15th Annual Lakeland Pigfest on January 28-29, 2011 at the Tiger Town Complex in Lakeland. Come enjoy one of the best BBQ festivals of 2011 with plenty of food, music, and friends for the benefit of local charities! Whether you’re competing among the 150plus teams or just enjoying, this festival is worth your time and money. Admission into the 2011 Lakeland Pigfest is free, but attendees purchase Pigbucks on site to enjoy the savory barbecue prepared by some of the country’s best competition teams. Over the past 15 years, the Lakeland Pig Festival has contributed nearly $500,000 to local charities and is recognized nationally as one of the Top-10 Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS) events in the country. Approximately 50,000 people attended in 2010.

Thanks to the dedication of community volunteers, each successive year has brought more contestants, more sponsors, and greater attendance. Strong sponsors maximize the outreach efforts and are the key to inspiring the efforts of the organizations that partner with Pigfest. The Lakeland Pig Festival idea was conceived in 1994 when a small group of local businessmen, vacationing in North Carolina, attended a Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS) sanctioned barbeque championship in Tryon. As community interest grew, then Governor Lawton Chiles signed the formal sanctioning request on November 19, 1996 for the Lakeland Pig Festival to become a Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) State Championship event. Finally, the first competition took place on March 21, 1997. In 2004, a Kids-Q Contest was added that follows all KCBS Kids rules and regulations. Children cook on their own grills in a designated area, competing for awards

presented at the main stage.

In 2008, Pigfest expanded to include Friday evening activities with live music and entertainment. according to its website, KCBS is “the largest international organization of barbeque enthusiasts” and has sanctioned the Lakeland Pig Festival since its first contest in 1997. Over 200 professional teams travel from all over the U.S. to compete in four categories: Ribs, Chicken, Pork and Brisket. They come for camaraderie, Florida sunshine and prize money. Many return year after year. KCBS trained and certified judges also travel great distances to determine the best of the best at the Pigfest. Since 1997, 183 people from throughout the U.S. have completed the Judging School right here in Lakeland, held a few days prior to the contest. Proceeds benefit a variety of charitable interests throughout the community. Together with the Junior League of Greater

Publix, a major sponsor since 1997, offers the Publix Backyard Competition, the largest KCBS sanctioned backyard competition in the nation. Teams compete in the same four categories: Ribs, Chicken, Pork, Brisket. The backyard cookers, who compete for bragging rights, ribbons and trophies, also follow KCBS rules and regulations. Many teams attend Judging School to learn about the four elements the judges consider. Some amateur competitors even move into the pro realm. Other 2011 sponsors for include CF, CocaCola, Budweiser, Constellation, Kingsford, McDonald Construction, Badcock Home Furnishings, Comanco Environmental, Southern Industrial Constructors, Ardamamon & Associates, Baron Realty, Inc., Lakeland Electric, and Springer Peterson. Applications are now available! For more information and directions to the event, contact Lakeland Pigfest at 863.450.3322 or info@lakelandpigfest.org.

FOCUS Magazine lakeland february 2011

Local » Focus

From left, Shakondra Brown, Kevin Miller, Jaylese Driver. Photo courtesy of Justin Troller

Lakeland High School Students Receive President’s Volunteer Service Award T Written By: Cheryl Johnston

hree Lakeland High students are among 137 in Florida to receive the President’s Volunteer Service Award.

On behalf of the President of the United States, the award is issued by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation. During the Florida Learn & Serve Conference held in Orlando, Shakondra Brown, Jaylese Driver and Kevin Miller received letters of appreciation from President Obama. The 137 students honored were from five Florida schools including Lakeland High. Other schools with students receiving the award were from Kissimmee, Miami, Panama City and Orlando. Brown, Driver and Miller are students

february 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

of LHS teacher Justin Troller, who instructs Lakeland High’s Learn and Serve curriculum. Learn and Service combines an academic component with community service and leadership.

Shakondra Brown received the bronze level award for 133 hours served working with the Police Athletic League (PAL), joining neighborhood clean-ups, painting neighborhood homes, and helping younger children with homework. Brown is a senior and president of PAL Young Directors Conference who considers “Giving back to my community an essential part of my life.” Her mother, Cassandra Simpson, said, “I am so proud of my daughter for the outstanding job she is doing in the community and I’m proud of all the work she’s done.”

As a result of her volunteer experiences at Watson Clinic, senior Jaylese Driver has decided to pursue a career in medicine. She received the silver level award for 247 hours volunteered during a 12-month period in the Watson Clinic MRI, cardiology, and urology departments handling clerical duties and assisting elderly patients. Driver said, “I love making a difference in my community.” Her mother, Kimberly Pollard, confirmed this when she complimented her daughter: “Jaylese has served her community since elementary school and I am so proud of her contributions.” An accomplished wrestler, junior Kevin Miller uses his abilities and talents to teach and train youngsters in the sport. Miller spends summers teaching young wrestlers the skills and discipline necessary to excel

and he spends many weekends coaching at tournaments. He achieved the gold level award for volunteering 272 hours over a 12-month period and describe the experience as “one of the most rewarding I’ve ever had.” His father, Rick Miller, also expressed appreciation for his son’s efforts. He said, “I’m proud of my son for caring for the community and for realizing there’s a bigger picture.” Troller, now in his 8th year of teaching, guides three LHS leadership classes and 14 groups volunteering on community projects. He agreed with Rick Miller’s affirmation and praised these three for being “sterling examples of our community’s future leaders,” adding, “We’ll be in good hands.”

Adventure One Go Kart Racing!

s you may have read in the Letter from the Publisher in the January issue, Focus Magazine has decided to take on 11 Adventures in 2011. The purpose of the New Years Resolutio n was to not only create staff camaraderie, but to challenge people to step out of their comfort zones and try new experiences. The first adventure of the year was go kart racing. The whole staff headed dow n to Ambassador Racing School in Wim auma. Not a single person in our grou p had ever been there before, much less raced a go kart on a track. They were extremely helpful in walking ever yone through the rules and coaching us on what to expect. The first group to hit the track were the ladies. The first couple laps were a warm up to get used to the feeling behi nd the wheel. After putting on her helmet and sitting in the kart, Angel Carter, our receptionist, started feeli ng too claustrophobic. She climbed out before they started the engines. The other five women took to the track and start ed the warm up laps. After two laps they waved the flag and the racing bega n. Some of them slowed down, othe rs couldn’t figure out how to pass other cars, but it was clear DeDe Floyd, one of the magazine owners, knew what she was doing. Maybe it was her experienc e as a pee-wee motocross champion, or just a need for speed, but she quickly passed ever yone and took first place by a long shot in the practice race. Then it was the gentlemen’s turn. As they put on their helmets, you could see the egos climbing behind the wheel. As should be expected, there was trash talk and teasing about who was goin g to lose or crash. They wheeled out onto the course for some warm ups but coul dn’t start as soon as the ladies. One race r had already spun out trying to make a turn. They realigned, finished the warm up and the race began. On the track you had Mike Floyd, Tony DeVane, and Vince DeVane, all former motocross racers. There was no clear dominant racer on their track, ever yone was passing so much you couldn’t keep up with who was in first, especially after they lapp ed a couple of the others.

It was almost time for the real races to begin, but some of the drivers still felt a little unconfident behind the wheel and wanted to try another warm up. This time Angel decided to try again and successfully got out on the track and did the laps with ever yone else. Clearly thes e were the timid drivers because their race ended with ever yone finishing in the same place they began, but we were all proud of Angel for not staying on the sidelines. Then came time for two preliminaries . The top three from each of these race s would compete in the final race. The highlight from the prelims was watc hing Anthony Sassano, one of the graphic artists, spin out and end up crashing in the grass. He got a little too cocky com ing around a curve and lost control. Finally it came down to the final race , and as expected, our four motocross racers qualified for the finale, along with Brandon Hyde and Jason Stone. Mike Floyd started off in a strong fi rst but DeDe quickly came from the back of the pack. Pretty soon Mike started falling back and the race came down to DeDe and Vince neck and neck thro ugh the final lap. DeDe took the victo ry, followed by her brother Vince, and then Brandon Hyde, the spouse of account executive Sophia Hyde. Former race rs Mike and Tony had to eat a lot of dirt from the staff for losing to a girl, but it was all in good fun.

Log into www.myfocustv.com to watc h the video of the day. Ambassador Racing School can be contacted at 813634-1076. They are available for priva te lessons, corporate events, and public racing. Thank you to the friendly staff at Ambassador for an incredible afternoon !

Go Online To Check Out THe full

Video at

www.myfocustv.com FocusTV > Plant City

FOCUS Magazine lakeland FOCUS MAGAZINE WINTER HAVEN february FEBRUARY 2011

Local » Focus

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

Achievement Academy Pigeon Pull and Evening Round-Up Taking Aim to Raise Money Written By: John Ross

he Achievement Academy, a PreKindergarten Charter School providing education and therapy services to children with developmental delays/ disabilities in Polk County, held its 5th Annual Pigeon Pull and Evening Round-Up on Saturday, January 15, 2010. The four man flurry skeet shoot event, held at the home of Marty and Angela Higgenbotham, brought expert marksmen and their friends together for a day of fundraising. Twenty-seven teams of four shooters competed for prestige and cash prizes. The sport involves shooters standing ready approximate1y 15 yards from a clay trap machine which shoots a clay projectile into the air. Shooters then take aim and shoot the target out of the air for points. Sponsorship levels ranged from $1,000 to $5,000. Individual tickets were available for $100 for the evening event. Stacy, event organizer, was proud of the event. “It was an awesome tournament. Everyone had a lot of fun.” Mosaic employee Joe Bennet, a frequent participant of Achievement Academy activities and winner of both the Turkey Shot and Redneck Golf, was proud of his victories. Still, he remembered why he was there. “It’s a phenomenal event. It feels great winning; you just turn around and give it back. We’re not here to get rich.” He thought

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the site of the event, the home of Marty and Angela Higgenbotham, was “a great place, a huge ranch. Can’t thank them enough.” After the shooting ended and everyone had their fill of marksmanship for the day, they walked to the other side of the ranch to enjoy the evening party with cocktails, an Outback Steakhouse dinner and live entertainment by Williams Road. The Achievement Academy assists children through age six and their families with education, support, resources and advocacy at each of its three locations - Lakeland, Bartow and Winter Haven. Sponsors for the 6th annual Pigeon Pull and Evening Round-Up included: Beretta Sponsor - QQ INC. / The Koutny Family Browning Sponsors - Brookstone Securities, Inc, Community Southern Bank, Mosaic Shirt Sponsor - Bul-Hed Corporation Colt Sponsors - Caudill Heating & Air Conditioning; Custom Drilling Services, Inc.; First Southwest Company; Graphic Systems Installers; Lilly, O’Toole, and Brown, LLP; and UBS Thornhill Group/ Putnam, Creighton & Airth And special thanks go to Marty and Angela Higgenbotham for hosting the event.

Local » Focus

Sounds of laughterWednesday, liftedJanuaryto19ththe rafters Mark Lowry took the of the Polk Theatre stage for a good cause. L Written By: Taylor U. Flumerfelt

owry is a Christian comedian and artist who, for 13 years, was a member of the Gaither Vocal Band. For two years the Department of Communication at Lakeland’s own Southeastern University has served as the headquarters for his webcasts named “Saturday’s with Mark and Tony.”

John Pierce, Department of Communication chair at Southeastern University, met Lowry three years ago at an on-campus event. “We struck up a great conversation and had an immediate rapport. I showed him our broadcast studio and talked about the type of work our students do. He had mentioned that he does a webcast discussing the hot-potatoes of Christian topics. I offered the use of our studio and the help of the Introduction to TV and Advanced TV student crews and he jumped at the chance to utilize our facilities… He was so

impressed with our studio and the caliber of our students, that he wanted to continue working with us… It was during this time that a friendship was cultivated.”

As the relationship between Lowry and the Department of Communication grew, Pierce asked Lowry about the possibility of hosting a benefit concert. Lowry gladly agreed and later explained that “because they have given so graciously,” he “wanted to give back to this department, in particular.” In response to Lowry’s generosity, Southeastern University students volunteered their time during the event helping guests to their seats, working the concession stand, selling Lowry merchandise, accommodating all needs backstage, and even performing with Lowry and his pianist, Stan Whitmire. The night began with several songs

performed by Lowry and Whitmire with pieces of Lowry’s comedy interspersed. As the night progressed, performances such as “There Will Come a Day,” originally by Faith Hill, featuring Southeastern University’s Theatrical Dance students and “Yes, My Jesus Loves Me,” originally by Mary McDonald, featuring Southeastern University’s Chamber Singers filled the line-up. A VIP meet-and-greet event followed and featured refreshments by Fresco’s Bakery & Bistro and an opportunity to not only get Lowry’s autograph, but also to have a picture taken with him. Ticket sales were brisk, with 913 sold for approximately $10,000 in profits to benefit the university’s Department of Communication. “An immediate blessing is that the funds

raised have enabled us to attend the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Regional Festival. Our students who were nominated to participate in Irene Ryan Scholarship Competition and the Stage Management Fellowship programs will have the opportunity to perform for a national audience as well as learn from professionals from all over the world,” Pierce gratefully remarked.

The genuine relationship between Lowry and Southeastern University has had a positive impact on both parties. When asked what Southeastern University means to him, Lowry responded “Well, first of all, it’s one of the most beautiful campuses I’ve ever been to. If I was a young person I would definitely consider attending there. Also, it’s the students. I love their hearts for discovering God and how to live life.

FOCUS Magazine lakeland february 2011

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st u d e n ts d oW n - L i n k W i t h s pa c e s tat i o n C E N T R A L F L O R I D A A E R O S PA C E A C A D E M Y S T U D E N T S TA L K L I V E W I T H S PA C E S TAT I O N A S T R O N A U T S Written By: BrIan West

february 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

Feature» centraL FLorida aerospace acadeMy

id you know there is a Central Florida Aerospace Academy at Kathleen High School?

All of the high schools in Polk County now have workforce academies. They are called Cape-Work Workforce Academies. The goal of the academies is to target the interest of middle school students. The high schools serve as the umbrellas for the Cape-Work Workforce Academies, and Kathleen High School has several of the academies. One of those is the Central Florida Aerospace Academy. The Central Florida Aerospace Academy is a 9th-12th grade academy. Although the academies are operating under the umbrellas of the schools, the campus for the Central Florida Aerospace Academy is located on-site at the Lakeland Linder Airport. They have a brand new building under construction that they will be moving into in March. The goal of the Central Florida Aerospace Academy is to focus on engineering, avionics, aeronautics and aerospace and science. Some of the academies are schools within a school. When the Central Florida Aerospace Academy was established, it quickly became apparent that they needed to be located at, or near, an airport. The academy is public and presently has about 150 students. It is not considered as a charter or magnet school, so anyone can apply. They do have slightly higher standards for enrollment. Students must have at least a 2.5 GPA to even get into the door. Students must be very serious about what they’re doing, given the intricacies of the materials covered in the program – engineering, aerospace, avionics and the sciences they teach to get students into the aerospace industry. Anyone can come as long as they can meet the minimum requirements. Some parents bring their children to the academy and others are bussed from Kathleen. Fortunately, because the campus is all-encompassing, the students are able to get their electives and core courses at the academy. Lori Bradner is the Science teacher at the academy. Since the academy operates under the umbrella of Kathleen High School, Bradner is considered faculty of Kathleen. A little over a year ago, Bradner was made aware of a program that NASA offers that would allow students to downlink with the Space Shuttle. Bradner wrote an application for the program a couple of years ago. They later learned that they were not accepted for the down link with the Space Shuttle,

but Becky Kamis, Director of Educational Outreach for NASA, said that everyone who reviewed the application thought that our school would be a fantastic candidate. Bradner said, “One of the things I’ve learned from life is that it’s not a failure as long as you learned from it.” So when she learned they were not accepted for the down-link with the Space Shuttle, she decided to contact NASA to understand what went wrong, and how she could make things better. Bradner had a phone conversation with Kamis and she told her about a similar opportunity, but with the International Space Station. Kamis sent the application to Bradner. Bradner completed the application and the rest is history. The whole process was about a year in the making, but ultimately, NASA selected the Central Florida Aerospace Academy to be one of five schools in the nation to participate in the down-link with the International Space Station. Applicants from all over the nation participated in the process, but our local school continued to make it through the cuts. In July of 2010, Bradner received a message at home, “Bradner, this is Becky Kamis. I think you might want to call me back.” That’s when Bradner knew they had been selected to participate. It’s such a great feeling when you accomplish your goals. The school is relatively new, but given their focus and all the things they attempt to do for their students, this was an unbelievable opportunity and accomplishment. But this downlink would be no small feat. Several people and organizations were involved in making this happen, including partnerships with FAA Studios, the FAA, Sun-n-Fun and the Florida Air Museum. Obie Young, now retired Director of FAA Studios was a key player in helping to organize the event. Bradner said, “Imagine trying to establish communication between the International Space Station and a classroom of students on the ground. It’s a technical nightmare. They were able to use the studio for the downlink but had to use several NASA centers, with producers working from the studio and Johnson Space Center. Now imagine the excitement of 150 students when Commander Scott Kelly came over the line and said, “Central Florida Aerospace Academy, this is the International Space Station. We hear

you loud and clear.” Bradner pumped her fists and jumped up and down. The kids cheered. It was a triumphant moment because this was a year in the making. A lady from Harvard was even present and she has been attending or listening in on these downlinks around the nation as research for her dissertation. She told Bradner there was one distinct difference this time. She said that when Commander Kelly made his opening announcement, the students cheered for more than 10 seconds and that had never happened before. What a great way to acknowledge the importance of the event and the value the students placed on it themselves. And the astronauts showed their appreciation by doing back flips in their zero-gravity environment. The students were also scheduled to go see a launch, but with the delay of the Discovery launch, the new date intersected with the date they were

scheduled for the downlink. Typically, when the date comes, if you’re not able to do the downlink for whatever reason, you simply miss your window of opportunity. However, NASA decided to reschedule the downlink. Once everyone was connected, there was about a 20-minute window of time to communicate through the downlink. You have to remember that the International Space Station is in orbit traveling at several thousands of miles per hour. It doesn’t take long before they are out of range and are unable to communicate. Bradner said, “Unfortunately, they can’t stop and park.” So to prepare for the event and to make the most of the little time they had, students submitted questions in advance of the event. NASA reviewed them and selected 20 questions to be asked during the downlink with the goal of covering as many as possible before communication was cut off. They also give the astronauts a heads up by sharing the questions with them in advance, and allowing them to choose which questions they’d like to answer. Again, this

is more about making the most of a very small window of opportunity than anything else. The students researched the scientists who were on board and the engineering of the space station. When it was time to begin asking questions, the students approached a microphone in the studio, introduced themselves and asked their question. The students had video and audio feed from the space station, but the space station only had audio capability. So the students were able to see and hear the astronauts, but the astronauts could only hear the students. The astronauts took turns answering questions. One of the most interesting questions was asked by Ashleigh Suter. Suter asked, “If I want to have a career in the aerospace industry and I want to be an astronaut, what can I do to better prepare myself? Colonel Coleman said, “Don’t limit yourself. Experience as much as you can and diversify in what you’re learning and take every opportunity you have and make the most of it. That is what NASA is looking for; well-rounded individuals with a broad-base education and varied experiences.” Bradner said, “I could see the look on the students faces and they were happy to hear the answer. You could see the light bulbs going off in their heads. What a wonderful message that what they’re doing is worthwhile. It was probably one of the most poignant questions.” Senator Bill Nelson, a former astronaut himself, prepared a video spot for the event that was shown just before the downlink, which was also a special treat. Bradner wanted to encourage all science teachers and all STEM teachers to take advantage of NASA as a resource. Bradner said, “I don’t think they’re being used as much as they should be. Not only for these downlinks, but also for their Explorers school, their educational materials and the programs they offer these students.” Months later, Bradner’s students are still talking about their experience with the downlink, and of course they’re applying a little pressure by asking Bradner what’s next. Bradner said, “I’m working on it.” Most recently, NASA has sponsored a new program – the NASA Endeavor Fellow. The program is offered by NASA in conjunction with Columbia University. Bradner is in the third cohort group. They chose 50 people nation wide with a long-term goal to provide a National Certification in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Education.

FOCUS Magazine lakeland february 2011

Fighting a dreaded disease

American Cancer Society help patients deal with Cancer intervieW By: BrIan West photos By: danny CrUz PhotograPhy

he american Cancer society was founded in 1913 by 15 physicians and businessmen in new york City. It is a nationwide community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer. eunice hutto is the Unit director for the local oďŹ&#x192;ce and I recently spoke with her about her role and their work in the community.

february 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

Focus: Tell me a little about your family.

work of the American Cancer Society.

Hutto: My father was a veterinarian in El Salvador and had his own private practice. He also worked for the university system as a professor. My mother was my father’s secretary. That’s how they met. We moved here [to the United States] during the civil war in El Salvador. My mother became a homemaker and was always there for us through our school years when we would come home. Like any other family, we love each other and drive each other crazy. Since my father was so involved with animal care, we were always kind of drawn to something where we could help others. Monica works for the Hillsboro County Court System and Cinthya is a nurse at Tampa General.

Hutto: Locally and nationally, we have a lot of the same programs, although we’re part of the Florida division here. As for our local office, we want to make sure people know we have a presence in the community. We’ve just moved to a new location: 1920 S. Florida Avenue and we’re open MondayFriday 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. I like to tell people where we’re located because we have a room full of resources: free gift items for ladies who’ve had mastectomies, bras, wigs, hats, turbans, scarves, etc. There are a lot of items available to help when the budget is getting tight with medical bills. Wigs can cost a couple of hundred dollars. It can be a difficult time when someone is newly diagnosed. They can come to our office and in a very private setting, be fitted for a wig and walk out knowing they didn’t have to pay anything out of pocket and feeling a little better about their outward appearance. We also have transportation assistance through our Road to Recovery Program. It could be someone driving from one side of the county to the other coming to Lakeland for treatment, or even to Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa. For whatever reason, they’re not able to drive. So we provide them with transportation. We have a group of volunteers that will drive them to their treatments. If a driver’s not available, we’ll pay for their bus or cab fare. We also have a group of programs under the Rock Program. Through the Rock Program, we have scholarships available to kids who want to go to college, had cancer as a child and can’t afford to go to college in the state of Florida. This year I think we gave out six scholarships. This really helps those families whose funds were depleted when they were going through their cancer treatments. There is also a week-long summer camp experience for kids who wouldn’t otherwise have this experience – not being sick children. It’s nice to give something that helps the parents have piece of mind.

Focus: Tell me about your immediate family. Hutto: I’m married to Jason and we’ll be celebrating our 8th anniversary in March. We’re high school sweethearts. We have a daughter that will be four in March. Focus: How did you get involved with the American Cancer Society? Hutto: I stayed in Tampa after college and was working at Tampa General, looking to work in health care and trying to see what I could do in philanthropy. I started to look at non-profit work and came across the American Cancer Society. I was drawn to their organization because they had a position for a Educational Manager in their Cancer Control area. This was right after September 11, 2001, but they had a hiring freeze at the time. I’m currently the Unit Director and have been in this position for about five years. I’ll have nine years with them this May. Focus: Tell me about the

Focus: Tell me about your national programs. Hutto: As far as the national programs, we have something called “Look Good, Feel Better.” We partner with the Cosmetology Association of America where we provide a 1 ½ hour long makeup session for women undergoing cancer treatment and maybe their hair or eyebrows have fallen out. We provide them time with a cosmetologist and a free makeup kit that’s valued at about $300.

It’s very nice. They’re able to leave feeling so good about ourselves. Focus: Tell me about your fundraisers? Hutto: Our CEO says, “No money, no mission. No mission, no money.” What we mean by that is that we have to fundraise to support our mission and programs. If it wasn’t for our mission and our programs, our donors wouldn’t see the value in where their

dollars are going. We want people to see the value in what we’re doing and utilize events for their friends and family and get the word out for others who may need our services.We have three signature priority special events, which is really how we make all of this happen. Such events are Relay for life, the Making Strides against Breast Cancer walk, which is our Polk County breast cancer walk, and also our Cattle Baron’s Ball which is our signature gala. Focus: Tell me more about the Cattle Baron’s Ball. Hutto: It is a western-themed event. What’s nice about it is that a lot of people enjoy going to parties and charitable events, and we really enjoy our event because you have the ability to come out and dress up. We tell everyone it’s denim to diamonds. A lot of ladies will come out in great western attire and wear jeans and boots, and the men will wear the same thing, plus a hat. It’s held outdoors in Highlands City at the Bunch Ranch at the home at David and Jean Bunch. It’s really wonderful because we’re outside at the ranch and you’ll see cows all around you. It’s a working ranch. We have live entertainment, an auction and great food. In fact, the meal this year will be catered by Grillsmith. There’s an open bar sponsored by Spunky Spirits. We also have Bernie Little Distributors as an underwriter for what we call our Saloon. It’s a really great way for us to highlight some of our programs. We usually get about 300 guests, and the majority of those are through corporate sponsors. Our presenting sponsor is Brighthouse Networks. They’ve sponsored

the event for 10 years now. We’re calling this year’s event our 10th birthday party. Tickets are $100 each. We’re very excited about the event this year. If you haven’t heard, the America Cancer Society national campaign is the official sponsor of birthdays. We want to be the official sponsor of your birthday and everyone’s birthday. We want to help people live a longer, healthier life. Focus: Can you share some specific experiences you’ve had in your role? Hutto: We’ve had so many people volunteer with us over the years, and most of them are cancer survivors, but two stories really stick out to me. One in particular was a young girl who came in. I think she was 10 years old. She was very shy and quiet. She came in with her mom. She was having treatments for abdominal cancer and lost her hair. She was very quiet. She just kept looking down at her feet the whole time. They came in looking for a wig because they were having school pictures the next day. If you could imagine, it’s tough enough being a kid in school and add to that a battle with cancer. We fitted her with this adorable little wig with long black hair and bangs. She walked out with the biggest smile on her face. It just made us feel really good. And last year I had the chance to meet a really great young lady who is a survivor of childhood cancer. She had a brain tumor when she was very small. I met her because we needed her to come out and speak to us at the Cattle Baron’s Ball. She is a scholarship recipient of the American Cancer Society and she’s currently attending Florida Southern College. I spoke with her just before the ball and we had a little interview to prep her. I asked her to tell me about her experience with the American Cancer Society and tell me a little about you. She said, “I’ve always known I could do anything. My mom and dad never even told me that I had cancer because they didn’t want me to dwell on it. They just told me about everything that was happening, but they never told me it was a cancerous tumor.” She just had this will about her. She just wanted to go to school to be a nurse so she could help others. It really touched me. She thanked all of the donors for sending her to college and that because of the economy, both her parents had lost their jobs last year and the only way she would be able to finish school was for us to renew her scholarship. So I’ll probably never forget her and her story. Cancer is such a dreaded disease. You probably know several people who’ve suffered from cancer, and some that did not survive. Support the American Cancer Society and their efforts. They’re making such a positive impact through their work. Eunice, thanks for all your efforts and keep up the great work.

FOCUS Magazine lakeland february 2011

february 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

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Charley Pride Clint Black

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february 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

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whAt’s fRee in 2011? s

stingray chevroLet entertainMent tent scheduLe oF events

trawberry Festival organizers know how to pack the house and there’s no doubt about it. One of the secrets to that success is the lineup of local talent and fun-towatch performances at the Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent.

From music and dance to exercise and eating contests, the free venue offers something everyone can enjoy. What parent, grandparent, friend, co-worker, neighbor, teacher, or church member doesn’t want to come and see the people they know and love take the stage and inspire an audience? School choirs, choruses, bands, and orchestras always draw a crowd, as do young dancers, baton twirlers, and karate kickers. The 2011 lineup also includes several serious competitions, such as the Celebrity Dessert Challenge, the Youth Parade Awards, and the Youth Strawberry Stemming Contest.

marCh 3, 2011

11:00 .........Springhead Elementary School............................................ School Chorus 1:00...........“Celebrity Dessert Challenge”.................. Sponsored by: GFS Marketplace 3:30...........Klassic Kountry Kloggers ...................................................Clogging Group 4:30...........Steve Selby ........................................................................................ Soloist 6:00...........Strawberry Squares .............................................................Square Dancing 7:00...........Brandon School of Dance Arts ..............................................Dance School

marCh 4, 2011

11:00 .........J.S. Robinson Chorus ........................................................... School Chorus 12:00 .........Shining Knights ................................................................... School Chorus 1:00...........Ella Jet .............................................................................................. Soloist 3:30...........Buddy Brown .......................................................................................Band 5:00...........Double Trouble ..................................................................... Country Duet 6:00...........Double Barrel Band .............................................................................Band 7:30...........Heather Leigh & 2nd Chance Band ....................................................Band

marCh 5, 2011

11:00 .........At His feet Ministries ............................................................ Dance Group 12:30 .........Youth Parade Awards ................................ Sponsored by: The Civitan Club 2:00...........Youth Stemming Contest........................Sponsored by: SunnyRidge Farm 3:30...........Celebration Singers .................................................... Gospel Music Group 5:00...........T.A.G. Team ................ Kid’s Worship Team - Plant City Church of God 6:00...........Central Florida Academy of Etiquette................................... Dance Group 7:00...........Carol Grayson’s School of Dance ...........................................Dance School

With the incredible amount of talent sure to be displayed by local performers and musicians, it’s no wonder there might be a few scouts in the audience. Be sure and check out the 1st Ever Mega Corndog Eating Contest and the Strawberry Shortcake Eating Contest, too. If you plan to compete, you’ll need to practice in advance by sampling all the fine food the festival vendors have to offer. Should you eat too much, don’t worry. Be happy. Seniors can teach us all a thing or two about staying in shape or tightening the belt a notch as the YMCA Silver Sneakers group demonstrate ways to have fun and stay fit. Stingray Chevrolet has sponsored the entertainment tent for the last 3 years and finds it a great form of exposure and advertisement. Since the community minded dealership actively supports many of the great happenings in our town, it’s our hope that when locals need another vehicle, they will shop local with Stingray.

marCh 6, 2011

11:00 .........Gospel Truth Quartet ................................................ Gospel Music Group 12:00 .........Sonshine Quartet ....................................................... Gospel Music Group 1:00...........Spirit Wind Trio ........................................................ Gospel Music Group 3:00...........Peace River Quartet ................................................... Gospel Music Group 4:00...........Heavenly Hope .......................................................... Gospel Music Group 5:00...........Judy’s Dance Academy ...........................................................Dance School 6:30...........Heanon Tate ................................................................ Gospel Music Band

marCh 7, 2011

11:00 .........Durant High School Choruses ............................................ School Chorus 1:00...........Grand Parade- Viewing available inside Tent 4:00...........Lincoln Elementary School Chorus.................... School Chorus/Ensemble 5:00...........Ashley Shannon ................................................................................ Soloist 6:00...........Buckshot Cloggers .............................................................Clogging Group 7:30...........Dance Carousel ......................................................................Dance School

marCh 8, 2011

10:30 .........Bryan Bulldog Chorus ......................................................... School Chorus 11:15 .........Bryan Ethnic Performers ........................................... School Dance Group 12:00 .........Bailey Chorus and Drum Ensemble .................................... School Chorus 2:00...........Strawberry Stemming Contest.................Sponsored by: SunnyRidge Farm 3:30...........Wilton M. Stokes...................................................................Gospel Music 5:00...........The O’Brien Sisters .......................................................................... Singers 6:30...........Performer’s Edge Dance Studio .............................................Dance School 7:30...........Eden Regained ........................................................... Christian Rock Band FOCUS Magazine lakeland february 2011

marCh 9, 2011

11:00 .........Amanda Massey ................................................................................ Soloist 1:00...........1st Ever Mega Corndog Eating Contest ........... Sponsored by: Super Dog 2:30...........John Summerall ................................................................................ Soloist 4:00...........Lithia Springs Lynx Choir ................................................... School Chorus 5:00...........Shelly Stark .............................................................. Country Music Singer 6:00...........Resilience Road ....................................................................................Band 7:30...........Jackie’s Dance Theatre ............................................................Dance School

marCh 10, 2011

entertaInment revUe

11:00 .........Burns Middle School Chorus .............................................. School Chorus 12:00 .........White Lightning Cloggers.................................................Clogging Group 1:00...........YMCA: Silver Sneakers ......................................... YMCA Exercise Group 3:00 Strawberry Shortcake Eating Contest Sponsored by: St. Clements “Make Your Own Shortcake” 5:00...........Charlie Ries .........................................................................................Band 6:30...........Patrick Patriots Twirling Corps............................................ Baton Twirling 7:45...........Faces South ........................................................................Rockabilly Band

ella Jet-sInger

klassIC koUntry kloggers

amanda massey - soloIst

marCh 11, 2011

11:00 .........Progress Village Middle Magnet ......................................... School Chorus 12:00 .........Trapnell Elementary Chorus................................................ School Chorus 1:00...........You and Me ........................................................................... Country Duet 3:00...........Billy T. Elvis ...................................................................................... Soloist 4:00...........Bianca Swilley ................................................................................... Soloist 5:00...........L.A.D.....................................................................................Dance School 6:30...........Entertainment Revue .............................................Song and Dance Troupe 7:30...........Rave Revue.............................................................Song and Dance Troupe

marCh 12, 2011

11:00 .........Plant City Church of God ...... Gospel Music Group - Worship Arts Team 1:00...........Strawberry Express Cloggers .............................................Clogging Group 2:30...........Orlando Cloggers...............................................................Clogging Group 4:00...........South Shore Rising Stars .......................................................Dance School 5:30...........Julestarz Academy .................................................................. Dance Group 7:00...........Chris Welbon Karate ............................................... Karate Demonstration 8:15...........The Academy of Dance Dynamics .........................................Dance School

marCh 13, 2011

BUCkshot Cloggers PICtUred: tIny tot team

Plant CIty ChUrCh oF god ChoIr 22

february 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

11:00 .........Clogging Connection .........................................................Clogging Group 12:00 .........Glee.................................................................................................. Singers 1:00...........Gulf Coast Cloggers ..........................................................Clogging Group 2:30...........Nate Maloney .............................................................. Gospel Music Band 4:00...........Music Showcase Elite ...................................................................... Singers 5:00...........June and John .......................................................................................Duet 6:00...........Brian Bracey and One Reason ...............................................Gospel Music 7:00...........Leonard’s Leonard’s Dance Academy..................................................... Dance Group

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february 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

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Written by: Brian West | Photos courtesy of: The Plant City Photo Archives

The Florida Strawberry Festival parade is one of the largest parades in Hillsborough County. This event for the people of Plant City also deserves credit for its longevity. But over the last few years, the parade just hasn’t been the same. The tragedy of the Christmas Parade a few years ago cast a sorrowful shadow, and people seemed afraid to have a little fun during the parades. This year, the Florida Strawberry Festival has arranged with Berry Fine Productions to produce this year’s parade. Jodi Smith founded the 501(c)(3) organization and created a board in her own personal attempt to establish a philanthropical group. Smith said, “I am excited to be a part of such a fun-filled event that really demonstrates what Plant City is all about. The Parade is a family fun day; a day everyone looks forward to all year!” This year will be a little different. You’ll see Brown’s Florist handing out flowers and Uncle Joe’s Roasted Corn giving out corn-on-the-cob nibblers. Smith really wants this year’s parade to be more interactive, rather than just people waving at each other during a drive by procession of cars and floats. The reigning Miss Florida, Jaclyn Raulerson, will serve as this year’s Grand Marshal. Al Berry is working with Smith to re-establish a tradition that his sister, the former City Manager, Nettie Draughton and City Commissioner Betty June Barker, started years ago. The two would meet in Draughton’s office at City Hall, just prior to the start of the parade. They’d put on makeup and clown suits and slip into the parade unnoticed. Berry is working to revive the “City Clowns” for this year’s parade. Several city officials have already secretly volunteered to participate. Berry and Smith are hoping more will get involved.

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february 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

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february 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

FEBRUARY 18 RICHIE MERRITT

Richie Merritt, formally of the Marcels, will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room.

FEBRUARY 19 THE VAN DELLS

50s & 60s Rock and Roll – The Van Dells are a unique blend of comedy, choreography and tight harmonies... the group is nonstop action from start to finish! Plus, PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds will also perform before and after the show in the Red Rose Ballroom.

FEBRUARY 26 THE LEGACY OF THE TEMPTATIONS

Back by popular demand. This group will thrill you with the hits that we have loved for so long... including: “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg and “Papa Was A Rolling Stone!” Plus, Richie Merrit and PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds.

MARCH 11 & 12 DOOWOP WEEKEND

- VOL. 5

The annual is event is underway for another spectacular extravaganza! The celebrity line up includes: The DelPrados, George Galfo’s Mystics, The Edsels (performing Saturday night only!), Terry Johnson’s Flamingos, P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds, Destiny andRalph Allocco & Second Wind. Many activities areincluded to enhance the weekend and totake a trip down Memory Lane, including Hula Hoop, Dance and Costume contests!

MARCH 19 & 25 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

A dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

APRIL 2 BOB RYMAN

“THE FIDDLER”

Bob Ryman “The Fiddler” was a legend in the area for many years when The Red Rose was Lanny Purcell’s Holiday Inn and was also a favorite at Florida The Strawberry Festival®. Because of his fans’ request, The Red Rose Inn is bringing “The Fiddler” back. P.J.Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds will open & close the show in the Red Rose Ballroom.

APRIL 8, 16, 23 & 30 RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WIND

Performing in the Red Rose Dining Room

APRIL 9 & 22 JOHNNY ALSTON’S MOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUE

A dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds perform before and after the show.

MARCH 5 LOLA & THE SAINTS

APRIL 24 EASTER SUNDAY

Doo Wop At Its Best! Relive the 50s & 60s as though it was yesterday. “Forever in Love,” “Just Over the Brooklyn Bridge.” Plus, PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds.

BUFFET

APRIL 29 RICHIE MERRITT

Richie Merritt, formally of the Marcels, will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room.

SHOW RESERVATIONS

MARCH 26 BUDDY HOLLY & THE BEATLES TRIBUTE SHOW

MARCH 11 & 12

A tribute to two of music’s historical cutting age acts Buddy Holly & The Beatles. BeatleBeat previously performed at Disney’s Epcot and was a big crowd pleaser. If you loved Holly and the Beatles, this is an act not to miss! Plus, Holly’s Cadillac, which also took the Beatles to Shea Stadium in the 60s, will be here to see!

Please call for ticket prices. Shows in the Red Rose Ballroom are in a supper club atmosphere with a four course meal (seats also available for the show only – for a lower price!) NO COVER CHARGE for shows in the 5-Star Red Rose Dining Room with the purchase of dinner. Show Guests - inquire about our special room rates when staying overnight after a show!

TEL: 813.752.3141

I-4 Exit 21 • 2011 N. Wheeler St.• Plant City, FL 33563

WWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COM

Mrs. Evelyn Madonia - Owner FOCUS Magazine lakeland february 2011

february 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

Meet the

Queen & Court 2011 Florida Strawberry Festival

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that time of year again. On Saturday evening, February 5th, the 2011 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen and her court were named. This year, Victoria Watkins was named Queen, Victoria Garren is the First Maid and Taelor Highland, Kori Lane and Summer Norris were selected as court members. Every year, we seem to get such a great group of young ladies, and this year is no different. They are each so different and unique, and yet there are so many endearing qualities they share; they are genuine, sweet and kindhearted. I had a few minutes recently to meet the court and hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what they had to say.

Interviews by Brian West Photography by Stephanie Humphrey Photography

FOCUS Magazine lakeland february 2011

Meet the Queen

Victoria The Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s pageant is always a big even in Plant City. This is the 76th anniversary of the Festival, and it was a special night. Victoria Watkins was crowned as the 2011 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen. Just three days into her reign, I had an opportunity to speak with Victoria about being crowned Queen. Focus: Tell me about your family. Watkins: My family has been here for 5 generations. I actually learned when I was getting ready for Strawberry Queen, that my great-great-grandfather helped lay the railroads right along side Henry B. Plant. That was a cool piece of history to learn. So my family wasn’t just here, they were a part of it. And that just got me more excited about the pageant. Focus: How many siblings do you have? Watkins: I have two older sisters, Ashlee and Allie, and a younger brother, Michael. Ashlee is married and lives in Colorado and Allie is in college at Florida State University, so they’re not here with me now. But I also have a cousin, Joie, that is older than me too, and she’s lived with me for most of my life, until she graduated, so she’s really like a sister to me.

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february 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

d time? make wings an Favorite Family with my dad. We . I love to cook games. the ing Football season tch wa t d just hang ou cheese sticks an y? e to meet and wh tch his show n you would lik en I do, I wa wh t Who is one perso bu , TV of e watch a lot my own diner on Guy Fieri. I don’t I’d like to have ins and Dives. t experience. tha – Diners, Drive gh ou thr to meet him day and be able

Focus: Was this your first pageant? Watkins: No. I competed in Little Miss Plant City when I was 10 years old. Victoria Garren and I both got in the court and Ashlyn Robinson was the Queen. So it’s cool that I’ve known them for so long, I guess that‘s Plant City for you! I tried doing Junior Royalty like 5 years in a row, but I never got drawn in the lottery, so I couldn’t do it. The last year I was eligible, I just decided that I wouldn’t get drawn, so I didn’t enter. Two years ago, I did Miss Teen Plant City USA. That was really fun. It was the first time they’d ever done the Plant City Miss Teen. It was held at the Red Rose. I was supposed to go on to represent Plant City in the Miss Teen Florida USA pageant, but I just wasn’t as interested in the USA circuit. Strawberry Queen had drawn my attention more because of what the Queen represents. Focus: Did your sisters try to impart anything on you to help you prepare for the pageant? Watkins: They’re both busy, but they’d stay in touch with me asking how things are going. During Christmas time, they came down. They were there when I got my dress. They got to be a little part of it but not as much as I would’ve liked. Ashlee told me over and over again, “Just have fun. If you win or lose, it doesn’t matter because these are girls you get to make friends with.” When we were backstage waiting for the announcement of the top ten, I was so nervous. Then we started watching Jeopardy and were trying to guess the answers. It was like we totally forgot about the pageant. We were just enjoying being with each other. And that’s something I miss. I miss that girl time with my sisters. I definitely made friends, so Ashlee was right about that.

Watkins Focus: You and your sisters are so well grounded. Is there something that your parents did that stands out to you? Watkins: Yes. They’ve lightened up now that we’ve gotten older, but they used to be really strict. At the time, when they were strict, I wouldn’t be allowed to go somewhere or see a certain movie because of the rating. As a 13 year old girl, not being allowed to go along with your friends seems like the end of the world. But now when I look back on it, I’m so glad that they kept me protected the way that they did, and that they’ve talked to me about the things that they don’t want me to experience. I know those things are there, but I know to stay away from those things. That’s something that I hope I can do when I have kids. Not shelter them too much so that they’re completely blindsided by things in this world, but make sure that they know what not to experience. I honestly think the biggest key for me to have a chance at winning, was to be humble. I cannot tell you how surprised I was that I won. I know that if it wasn’t for the fact that I thought that I didn’t have a chance in the world, I wouldn’t have done as well. If I had gone out thinking, “I’m ready for this. My sisters got it, so I can.”, there’s just no way I would have done a good job. If I had expected it, it would have never happened. I think that’s something else my parents have taught me. You have to work your hardest for what you want, and you still may not get it. Focus: Tell me what things have been like for you in your first few days as Queen. Watkins: It’s been a whirlwind. Honestly, I keep forgetting that I have the crown on my head. So when people look at me and smile, I think, “Oh, how nice. People are smiling at me.” I wore my sash to school on Monday and it was so great. People were so nice. They were coming up to me and congratulating me. And that’s so hard to believe that even girls my age that I didn’t know were excited for me. In Plant City, people just care about each other, and we get excited for each other. This is a great experience. I know that I’m going to be so involved with the community this year even after high school. I’ll still be able to be involved. It’s just such an honor that I’m getting this experience and getting to meet all the people that run our great city.

Focus: Tell me your plans after high school. Watkins: I’m a senior at Plant City High School. In the past I’ve taken a lot of AP classes but this year I only took one. Right now I have a 5.5 GPA, so I’m kind of done with the AP classes; I need a break. I’m planning to go to HCC first after graduation. I work at Beef O’Brady’s and this month I’ll have been with them for a year. I can’t imagine leaving there. I really enjoy my job. I enjoy working with all the girls and they want me to stay, which means a lot to me. After HCC, I plan to attend a Culinary School and open my own diner some day. I need to learn more about cooking, but it will be an amazing journey. Focus: Is there something you’re looking forward to in your year as Queen? Watkins: I think for me, I’m really looking forward to the whole Festival. It’s going to be really exciting. Every year, my family has one day that we all load up and go together. We just eat and ride the rides; except for me because I’m scared. We haven’t been able to do that as much as a family since my sisters are growing up and aren’t at home as much. So I think I’m just looking forward to the whole Festival experience every day, actually being able to find my way around the Festival. It’ll be an honor to be a part of it and actually know what I’m doing. I also love food. My favorite at the Festival is chicken on a stick. It’s basically just a giant chicken tender, but because it’s on a stick, it just makes it better I think. Focus: Tell me something about yourself that not everyone knows. Watkins: I think the fact that I’m very different from my sisters. We’re all completely, almost opposites from one another. Ashlee is so, so sweet. We call her Jesus’ sister because she’s just syrupy sweet all the time. You can’t make Ashlee mad. And if you do, you feel so bad because she’s just so sweet. And Allie’s got this spunk that she doesn’t let everyone see. It’s come out a little more that she’s gone off to college. I think that I’m just a mixture of them is something that’s unique. I get along with them so well now that I’m older, and you don’t always see that in families. We can all pick on each other, use sarcasm, whatever, and we’re all loving at the same time. Even though I’m a lot like my sisters I think I see the world a little differently sometimes. It is so clear that Victoria will do a wonderful job as Queen. She has a level of maturity a few years beyond her age. She’s very focused in what she wants to do with her life. She’s thankful for the way she and her sisters and brother have been raised, which is a testament to her parents. Congratulations Victoria. We wish you all the best in your year as Queen. Take it all in and enjoy every moment.

FOCUS Magazine lakeland february 2011

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First Maid

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Court Member

Taelor Highland

february 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

Court Meet the

Focus: Are you originally from Plant City? Highland: No. I was born in Texas and my family moved here when I was 4 years old. My dad is from Plant City and my mom was always coming to Plant City to visit her friend. After my parents met, they started dating and eventually moved here. Lane: Yes. I live in Pinecrest, a little south of Plant City. I’m really close with my family. Norris: Yes. I grew up here in Plant City. I’ve been here all my life. My grandfather lived in Alabama and moved back and forth, but I’m the third generation. My grandparents live in the backyard and my sister lives an acre away. Garren: Yes. I’ve grown up around Plant City all my life. Focus: Do you have any brothers or sisters? Highland: I have a baby brother. He’s three. Lane: I have an older brother whose 25. He and his wife have an 18-month-old boy named Jackson. I also have a sister who is 22. I’m the baby of three, but we’re really close. We spend a lot of time together. Norris: I have a sister. She was in the court in 2003, Shana Norris. Shana’s married and she has a daughter Gracie. She’s two and she’s amazing. Garren: I have a brother named Kyle, and he’ll be 20 years old in March. He kind of looks over me. I love him to death. Focus: Was this your first pageant experience? Highland: No. I competed in Little Miss Plant City in 2004. Then I didn’t do any pageants for a while until this past year when I competed in Calendar Girl at my school. Lane: No. When I was eight, I competed in the Junior Royalty pageant. I was in the top 5, so I got in the court and then I did it again two more years in 7th and 8th grade and I got on the court both times in the Queen division. My sophomore year, I competed in Calendar Girl and was the first underclassmen to win cover girl. Norris: I did Little Miss Plant City and Junior Royalty and got into the court a long time ago. This is my third time competing in the Queen’s contest. The first time, my family wanted me to do it since my sister got into the court. Last year was a tough year because the Tuesday before the pageant my great-grandmother passed away. I was really close to her. She was in a nursing home and I was even closer to my great-grandfather. The Wednesday before the pageant I got laryngitis. When I wasn’t selected, it was almost a relief. It was a blessing in disguise. That night, we left to go to Alabama to my great-grandmother’s funeral. I was able to talk at her funeral, and I was surrounded by my friends and family. And it meant so much that I was there for my great-grandfather. Even though I lost an opportunity with the Queen’s contest, I gained an opportunity with my family. It was such a blessing. You just never know what God has in store for your life. This year, I went out for it. I gave it my best and knew that God had a plan. Garren: I’ve done pageants since I was really little. After my first pageant, there were girls crying because they didn’t make it, and my mom said, “If you ever do that, I will never put you in a pageant again. You don’t do pageants to win. You do pageants to have fun and for the experience. They’re a great way to interact with the community and earn scholarships. Focus: What interested you in competing for Strawberry Queen? Highland: When I competed in Little Miss Plant City, Katie Sharer was Queen. I idolized her. I remember she had a Volkswagen Beetle and I told my mom that I wanted to be just like Katie. So I was so excited when I went to the mandatory orientation for Strawberry Queen contestants and learned that Katie was going to be the emcee and she would be going on the trip to New York. That’s when I decided it must be a sign, and I had to go for it. Lane: Like most girls, just growing up in Plant City, I always wanted to do it. I’ve always been really shy and the talking portion scared me. But when I was in

middle school, I joined FFA and that really helped me come out of my shell. I did public speaking contests and that really helped me open up and help me prepare for Strawberry Queen. Garren: It’s just a great opportunity to represent Plant City. Focus: Where are you currently attending school? Highland: I’m a junior at Durant High School. I went to an International Baccalaureate School in Tampa, so when I transferred to Durant, I didn’t know anyone. It took a little getting used to, but I’ve made a lot of friends and I like Durant. Lane: I’m a senior at Durant. It’s great. I love it. I’m in Leo Club and I’m a varsity cheerleader and this is my second year cheering. And I’m a part of the senior council, which is a lot of fun. It keeps me busy doing community service stuff and getting kids involved in school spirit and getting ready for pep-rallies and all kinds of stuff. Norris: I’ll be graduating from HCC with my Associate’s degree in Elementary Education and then transferring to the University of South Florida in the fall. Garren: Yes. I’m attending Florida Southern College. I’m the co-captain of the cheerleading squad, and I just got a letter in the mail last week that I made the Dean’s list my first semester. It was a big accomplishment. I’m working on a double major in Broadcast Journalism and Advertising. Focus: Do you know what you want to do next with your lives? Highland: Yes. I want to go to the University of Florida and major in pre-medicine. I want to be a plastic surgeon. I’m always watching Discovery Health and reconstructive surgery really interests me. I just think it would be so cool to be that person that’s able to help people boost their confidence. I think it would be the best job ever, getting to do something different every day. Lane: I plan to attend Hillsboro Community College and work on my business degree. I’m really interested in cosmetology, so I want to get my license. I’ll probably do that through Plant City High School. They have a night program and I’ll probably do that while I’m getting my business degree. When I finish at HCC I’d like to transfer to the University of Central Florida. Norris: I’m volunteering at Walden Lake Elementary in Mrs. Gifford’s 3rd grade class. When I graduate, I really want to teach 3rd grade. Garren: The Miami Dolphins are my favorite team and I’d really like to be a Dolphins cheerleader. But eventually I want to end up being a sports broadcaster on the sidelines covering football or baseball. Focus: Tell me something about yourself that not everyone knows. Highland: [With a straight face] I tend to think that I’m the best singer in the world. I’m always running around my house hitting the high notes. I could even be in the shower. My parents are always like, “Taelor! It’s not good.” For me, it takes someone to videotape me before I have my own realization that I’m really not that good. I love Kenny Rogers, so I’m really excited that he’s coming to the Festival this year. I love “Lady.” Lane: Since I’m shy, it takes a little while for people to get to know me. But when they do, I think I’m really funny. My parents always joke with me. I like the Saturday Night Live skits and the Tyler Perry movies. I’m always quoting movies and being goofy, and a lot of people wouldn’t expect that from me. Norris: Most teenagers like to listen to the radio. I don’t. I love listening to people talk. Everyone hates riding with me, especially when Dr. Tony Evans comes on 90.1 at 11 o’clock. I just love hearing people preach or talk. It’s just so entertaining to me. And the news! I love the news. What 19-year-old likes to listen to the news or traffic reports? I know what’s going on. Garren: I’m fluent in American Sign Language. When I was little, I watched a Christian video where they signed the alphabet. So when I got to high school, I thought it would be cool to learn. I love it. They have deaf nights in the food court at the Brandon Mall. It’s really cool to be able to walk past them and be able to communicate with them. It’s always a pleasure to spend time with the new Queen and her court, and this time was no different. They’re all excited about their trip to New York City to shop for outfits for their year representing our great city and the Florida Strawberry Festival. They’re also looking forward to spending time watching the entertainment, meeting the headline entertainers, and even supporting their friends in the steer show. They’re a great bunch of girls, and once again, we can be proud they’ve been selected to speak on our behalf. Thank you, ladies. We wish you the best of luck this year and hope you enjoy these once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

ming anything to ng, ﬁshing, swim outdoors. Hunti be to s. ve rou Lo ntu ve Lo adve ors I love being do with the outdo thout? leave home wi n to ng you will not Have been know What is one thi my cell phone. t ou th wi me with me. It is my it ve ha I re Will not leave ho su ke d go back to ma turn around an lifeline.

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time? ns every year to Favorite Family r family vacatio a blast. uld have to be ou and we all have er eth Family time wo tog ts ge e whole family Englewood. Th y? e to meet and wh e such a n you would lik God chose to us t tha Who is one perso ng azi am It is ge and le. ura bib co the th, m fai r will. He Esther fro accomplish his to n ma wo l . beautifu is amazing ch a trying time obedience in su

Court Member

Summer Norris I love to dance & play with my

little nephew. What is one thi ng you will not leave home wi My cell phone thout? Favorite Food? I’m deﬁnetly no t a picky eater, so its hard to pic but i love my mo k a favorite ... m & grandma’s southern-style cooking! Would you rathe r be rich, famou s, smart or gorge (You can only pic ous? k one) Smart, because knowledge can ge t you a lot furthe then being rich , famous, or go r in life rgeous. Whats the bigge st risk you’ve ev er taken? I’m not much of a risk taker, but i think living in thi world, everyda s crazy y is a risk. Favorite Family time? I love spending time with my fam ily, especially wh all over for dinne en theyre r & we spend ho urs sitting at the telling stories & dinner table laughing. Who is one perso n you would lik e to meet and wh I would love to meet my Prince y? Charming ! ( ha ha )

Court Member

Kori Lane

FOCUS Magazine lakeland february 2011

february 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

FOCUS Magazine lakeland february 2011

2011 florida strawberry festival Schedule of Events FREE GRANDSTAND: Limited stadium seats “FREE” for all shows with general admission. Seating is on a first-come, first seated basis. Stadium shows are at 3:30 pm and 7:30 pm daily. Stadium cleared after each 3:30 pm show. Reserved seat tickets available at the Ticket Office located at 2209 W. Oak Ave., Plant City, FL 33563. An additional ticket office adjacent to east side bleachers open during Festival to sell any remaining reserved seat tickets. Reserved concert seat Tickets DO NOT include gate admission. Ages 3 & up require a ticket for shows. You can purchase reserved seat Tickets online at www.flstrawberryfestival.com. Gates open at 10:00 am & close at 10:00 pm daily. Children 5 & under are admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. Children 6 to 12 require a youth ticket purchase of $5.00. General admission is $10.00 for patrons 13+. Dogs and/or other animals are not allowed on the festival-grounds unless they are a service or guide dog, non-human primate or animals in a show or contest. Certified trainers (with ID stating same) of companion dogs/animals will be allowed. All animals in shows or contests are to be removed immediately after the close of the event. No illegal drugs, firearms, alcoholic beverages, or pets are allowed on the Festival grounds. Because of the early printing of this events schedule, changes, errors, deletions, or omissions may occur, in which case the Florida Strawberry Festival® reserves the right to construe its own rules and regulations and to decide all matters and differences in regard thereto.

Thursday, March 3rd Senior Citizen’s Day | Ride-A-Thon Day

Patrons 60 years of age or older get $2.00 off the gate admission of $10.00 all day. Senior Day is Sponsored By: The Simplicity Plan. Ride-A-Thon from 3:00pm until 11:00 pm. A wristband purchased at the Midway for $19.00 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides for this one low price. Celebrity Dessert Challenge Sponsored By: GFS Marketplace. 10:00 am.................... Gates Open..............................Midway Opens at 12:00 noon 10:00 am – Close...... Poultry & Rabbit Shows........................ CF Industries Ag Tent 10:30 am – Noon....... Jimmy Sturr & Orchestra•.................. Wish Farms Soundstage Noon............................ Senior Citizens’ Drawing• ................... Wish Farms Soundstage (One drawing only-MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN) 1:00 pm...................... Celebrity Dessert Challenge...................... Stingray Chevrolet ......................................................................................................Entertainment Tent 3:30 pm...................... Bobby Vinton.................................. Wish Farms Soundstage 7:00 pm...................... Youth Swine Show................. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 7:30 pm...................... Kenny Rogers................................. Wish Farms Soundstage

FRIDAY, March 4TH Moonlight Magic Night

Moonlight Magic – Ride most mechanical rides for one special price of $20.00 per person. All patrons entering the Midway for this event will be required to purchase a $20.00 wristband, 11:00 pm until 3:00 am. All patrons entering the grounds are subject to search. Dairy Shows Sponsored By: Tractor Supply Company. 10:00 am.................... Gates Open.............................. Midway opens at 12:00 noon 10:00 am – Close...... Poultry & Rabbit Shows ....................... CF Industries Ag Tent 1:00 pm...................... Dairy Contestant Judging....... Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 3:30 pm...................... John Conlee................................... Wish Farms Soundstage 7:00 pm...................... Youth Swine Sale................... Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm.. Hola Plant City........Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent 7:30 pm...................... .38 Special...................................... Wish Farms Soundstage 11:00 pm – 3:00 am... Moonlight Magic........................................................... Midway

2011 florida strawberry festival Schedule of Events Saturday, March 5TH Kids’ Day

Kids through high school age admitted free all day. Youth Stemming Free Contest Sponsored By: SunnyRidge Farm. 10:00 am.................... Gates Open................................. Midway Opens at 10:00 am 10:00 am – Close...... Poultry & Rabbit Shows........................ CF Industries Ag Tent 11:30 am.................... Youth Parade............................................ Downtown Plant City Noon.......................... Dairy Show Showmanship..... Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 1:00 pm...................... Suite Caroline................................. Wish Farms Soundstage 2:00 pm...................... Youth Strawberry Stemming...................... Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent 2:00 pm...................... Dairy Show............................. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 3:30 pm...................... Jeremy Camp................................. Wish Farms Soundstage 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm.. Hola Plant City........Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent 7:30 pm...................... Gaither Vocal Band........................ Wish Farms Soundstage

SUNDAY, March 6TH Mountain Dew Family Day

Bring a Mountain Dew can to the Festival and receive a voucher for $5.00 off the $25.00 wristband and ride all day for only $20.00. Mountain Dew can is not valid for gate admission. 10:00 am.................... Gates Open................................. Midway Opens at 10:00 am 10:00 am – Close...... Poultry & Rabbit Shows........................ CF Industries Ag Tent 11:00 am.................... Adult Showmanship (Dairy)... Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 11:30 am.................... Pee Wee Showmanship (Dairy)........ Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 12:30 pm.................... Dairy Costume Ball................ Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 2:00 pm...................... Youth Plant Sale................................... CF Industries Ag Tent 3:30 pm...................... Trace Adkins................................... Wish Farms Soundstage 3:45 pm – 4:45 pm.... Registration for Baby Contest.............Sweetbay Supermarket ................................... (Hillsborough County Babies Only).................. Showcase Tent 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm.... Baby Contest: Decorated Diaper Contest; Baby Features Contest; Diaper Derby (Hillsborough County Babies Only) 7:30 pm...................... The Judds....................................... Wish Farms Soundstage

Monday, March 7TH Grand Parade Day | Ride-A-Thon Day

Ride-A-Thon from 10:00 am until 11:00 pm. A wristband purchased at the Midway for $19.00 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides for this one low price. Grand Parade Day Sponsored By: United States Marine Corps. Lamb Contests Sponsored By: ASAP Rental Equipment & Sales 7:30 am...................... Farm Credit Strawberry Salute Breakfast............... Invitational 10:00 am.................... Gates Open.................................. Midway opens at 10:00 am 10:00 am – Close...... Poultry & Rabbit Shows........................ CF Industries Ag Tent 10:30 am.................... Invitational Parade Luncheon.... Sponsored by: Regions Bank 1:00 pm...................... Grand Parade Begins............................... Downtown Plant City 2:00 pm...................... Grand Parade Passes by the Festival 3:30 pm...................... Charley Pride.................................. Wish Farms Soundstage 5:00 pm...................... Lamb Jumping Contest......................... CF Industries Ag Tent 6:00 pm...................... Lamb Show........................................... CF Industries Ag Tent 7:30 pm...................... Clint Black...................................... Wish Farms Soundstage

2011 florida strawberry festival Schedule of Events Tuesday, March 8TH Red Hat Day | Ride-A-Thon Day

Ride-A-Thon From 3:00 pm until 11:00 pm. A wristband purchased at the Midway for $19.00 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides for this one low price. Red Hatters get $2.00 off the gate admission of $10.00 all day. Red Hat Day Sponsored By: Red Rose Inn & Suites. Adult Stemming Contest Sponsored By: SunnyRidge Farm. 10:00 am.................... Gates Open..............................Midway Opens at 12:00 noon 10:00 am – Close...... Poultry & Rabbit Shows........................ CF Industries Ag Tent 10:30 am.................... Red Hatters Welcome............................................ Grandstand 2:00 pm...................... Adult Strawberry Stemming Contest............................Stingray .................................................................................... Chevrolet Entertainment Tent 3:30 pm...................... Chubby Checker............................ Wish Farms Soundstage 7:00 pm...................... Lamb Costume Contest........................ CF Industries Ag Tent 7:30 pm...................... Chris Young.................................... Wish Farms Soundstage

WEDNESDAY, March 9th American Heroes Day | Ride-A-Thon Day

Ride-A-Thon from 3:00 pm until 11:00 pm. A wristband purchased at the Midway for $19.00 will entitle wearer to ride most mechanical rides for this one low price. All active, reserve, retired military, veterans, law enforcement & first responders admitted free with valid ID. American Heroes Day Sponsored By: FOX 13 CARE*FORCE 10:00 am.................... Gates Open..............................Midway Opens at 12:00 noon 10:00 am – Close...... Poultry & Rabbit Shows........................ CF Industries Ag Tent 1:00 pm...................... Superdog Corndog Eating Contest............ Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent 3:15 pm...................... Honor American Heroes................ Wish Farms Soundstage 3:30 pm...................... Tanya Tucker.................................. Wish Farms Soundstage 6:00 pm...................... Youth Steer Show.................. Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 7:30 pm...................... Rick Springfield.............................. Wish Farms Soundstage

thursday, March 10th Senior Citizen’s Day | Ride-A-Thon Day

Patrons 60 years and older get $2.00 off the gate admission of $10.00 all day. Senior Day is Sponsored By: The Simplicity Plan. Ride-A-Thon from 3:00 pm until 11:00 pm. A wristband purchased at the Midway for $19.00 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides for this one low price. 10:00 am.................... Gates Open..............................Midway Opens at 12:00 noon 10:30 am – Noon....... The Guy Lombardo Band.............. Wish Farms Soundstage Noon.......................... Senior Citizens’ Drawing . ............... Wish Farms Soundstage (One drawing only – MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN) 3:00 pm...................... Strawberry Shortcake Eating Contest........ Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent 3:30 pm...................... George Jones................................. Wish Farms Soundstage 7:30 pm...................... The Doobie Brothers..................... Wish Farms Soundstage

2011 FlorIda sTrawberry FesTIval schedule oF evenTs FrIday, March 11Th

The Tampa Tribune Day on the Midway Moonlight Magic Night The Tampa Tribune Day on the Midway Noon to 10:00 pm - $2.00 off the regular price of $20.00 Fun Pack Ride Coupon Book. Patrons can receive the coupon from TBO.COM or The Tampa Tribune, which must be presented at time of purchasing the Fun Pack Ride Coupon Book. Sponsored by: The Tampa Tribune. Moonlight Magic – Ride most mechanical rides for one special price of $20.00 per person. All patrons entering the Midway for this event will be required to purchase a $20.00 wristband, 11:00 pm until 3:00 am. All patrons entering grounds are subject to search. 10:00 am ................... Gates Open .............................Midway Opens at 12:00 noon 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm ... Livestock Contestant JudgingPatterson Co. Livestock Arena 3:30 pm ..................... Ray Price........................................ Wish Farms Soundstage 6:00 pm ..................... Showmanship Judging-Beef Breed . CF Industries Ag Tent 7:30 pm ..................... Spirit Song .............Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent 7:30 pm ..................... Josh Thompson/Justin Moore ..... Wish Farms Soundstage 11:00 pm – 3:00 am .. Moonlight Magic.......................................................... Midway

saTurday, March 12Th Farm Worker Appreciation Day

Farm Worker Appreciation Day Sponsored By: Wish Farms. 10:00 am ................... Gates Open ................................ Midway Opens at 10:00 am 10:15 am ................... Baby Parade ............................................................... Stadium 3:30 pm ..................... Allstar Weekend & Jennette McCurdy ..............Wish Farms Soundstage 7:00 pm .................... Youth Steer Sale ................... Patterson Co. Livestock Arena 7:30 pm – 10:00 pm. ............ Rev. Art Jones and the Bible Based Fellowship Church Cathedral Choir ..........................................Sweetbay Supermarket Showcase Tent 7:30 pm ..................... Billy Ray Cyrus.............................. Wish Farms Soundstage

sunday, March 13Th Mountain Dew Family Day

Bring a Mountain Dew can to the Festival and receive a voucher for $5.00 off the $25.00 wristband & ride all day for only $20.00. Mountain Dew can is not valid for gate admission. Beef Breed contest Sponsored By: Purina Mills® 10:00 am ................... Gates Open ................................ Midway Opens at 10:00 am 11:00 am ................... Youth Beef Breed Show ....................... CF Industries Ag Tent 3:30 pm ..................... Easton Corbin ............................... Wish Farms Soundstage 7:30 pm ..................... Lady Antebellum ........................... Wish Farms Soundstage

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WATCH

Check out our daily coverage of the Florida Strawberry Festival Events

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This is your hometown and we are your hometown bank

fAmily RoyAlty What did you eat When you Were pregnant? is there soMething in the Water? Written by: Brian West | Photo by: Sophia Hyde

The home of Michael and Heather Watkins is a special place. They’ve parented four girls and a boy, and they’ve worked very hard to raise caring and respectful children. But every parent knows that parenting just isn’t easy. In 2005, their oldest daughter, Ashlee, was named the 2005 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen. In 2007, daughter, Allie, was selected as the First Maid. Now, youngest daughter, Victoria, has been crowned 2011 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen. So did Heather eat something when she was pregnant with the girls? Heather said, “When I was pregnant, I went to bed every night with each of my pregnancies, listening to classical music. To this day, they all like it. It’s relaxing.”

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Each of the girls are well grounded, approachable, and have excellent social skills. Heather said, “We wanted them to be kids, but we wanted them to be safe. When they were little, I’d let them finger-paint on the kitchen floor, roller skate in the house, even stand on the end tables and dance. Other parents would come over, and they’d say, ‘Oh my gosh! You’re letting them jump on the couches? ’ We just never cared about them doing things kids do to have fun. We just wanted them to be safe.” On the other hand, the Watkins were careful to instill discipline in their children. Watkins said, “What I didn’t approve of was them being sassy to each other or to me. I wanted them to have good manners and a responsibility to themselves to behave in a way that wasn’t hurtful to someone else. Those were the things that were important, not whether or not I’d have to clean up something.”

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Michael and Heather talked a lot about how they’d raise their children. Heather said, “We’ve always been family focused. We wanted our family focused here [at home] as a unit.” It may have had an impact.

Congratulations on a wonderful job of parenting, Michael and Heather. You’ve raised a beautiful family.

FOCUS Magazine lakeland february 2011

february 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

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extra » al reuchel first amendment. You may think it is but there are hundreds of cases going through the courts right now that fall on both sides of the issue. Let’s say you start bad mouthing your place of work. You put a post on Facebook and suddenly it goes viral and everybody in the world knows how unhappy you are... including your boss. Not cool! Your boss sees the post you thought was private or at least only shared within your tight circle of friends and you are fired. One of your friends, friends, friends is related to your boss. OOOpppps! Wait a minute. I thought my post was just to my tiny circle of friends, not meant for viewing by the general public? Sure, but how many times have you gotten a request for someone to join your circle of friends and without thinking you click on the accept button? It happens all the time. Folks want those following numbers to grow and grow. And sharing your college pictures of that huge drinking binge where you ended up dressing like a hooker or stripped to your underwear in a game of strip poker… you didn’t think that would become public? For crying out loud you PUBLISHED the suckers, what did you expect?

Facebook movie real eye opener S

It reminds me of the scene in the movie, Social Network, where Mark’s girlfriend decides to dump him and scars him for life. In anger, he sends out an e-mail trashing her appearance, etc. Somehow it makes the rounds at Harvard... well you know the rest of the story.

Written By: Al Reuchel

everal years ago when my youngest daughter entered UF she told me about something called Facebook. I remember at the time being slightly paranoid (which most father’s of college age daughters are) about the potential for abuse. Stalkers, rapists, communist sympathizers, cats and dogs sleeping together, total conspiracy stuff flooding my ever-protective instincts. I did a story on it on TV and warned parents to monitor the situation carefully. No one, not even Mark Zuckerberg, the

february 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

founder of Facebook had any idea this would become one of the most popular and potential society changing ventures. I’m still not completely sold on the idea of what Facebook has become or is becoming. If you’ve seen the movie about the Social Network you know this idea was born in a cloud of deceit, burned friendships, ultra egos, out of control partying, and simple greed. There was quite a bit of genius tossed in along the way. Considering it doesn’t really create or produce anything I’m stunned it’s valued at about 50-billion

dollars. So what’s good about Facebook? It does allow you to connect to an entire nation of folks who may or may not be your friends. You can share videos, pictures, quick messages and reconnect. That’s what I like most about it. I’ve been able to find friends I lost a zillion years ago in college. And the best part, it doesn’t cost me a dime. Mr. Cheap roaring to the surface. Here’s what scares me. Information you post on Facebook is not protected by the

While the courts battle out the privacy issues here’s a simple suggestion I’ve gotten from several legal Eagles in the Bay Area. If there’s anything on your Facebook page that isn’t flattering our shows you in an unfavorable light get rid of it NOW! Also, pray someone hasn’t already copied it and it is floating out there for some future employer to discover about the moment you think you’ve got the job wrapped up. And finally, if you don’t have something nice to say, as your Grandmother told you, don’t say it. Don’t publish it. Because when you make a Facebook entry, or a Twitter entry… publishing is exactly what you are doing. And publishing has its consequences!!!!!!

Business profile» The Watson Clinic Foundation

Nations Art Tour on display

Photo courtesy of Julie Boon

Arts in Medicine T he Watson Clinic Foundation exists to enhance the health and wellness of Polk County residents as a non-profit outreach arm of the medical facilities. Through free screenings, health education programs, and scholarships awarded, every dollar donated benefits someone in need.

Generous individuals and corporate partners are a strategic lifeline for the non-profit organization’s four annual events, which serve to raise awareness and funds. This month the 7th Annual “Toast for the Cure,” was held Sunday, February 13, 2011 at the Lakeland Yacht & Country Club. Organized by The Watson Clinic Foundation Auxiliary, the wine and cheese social fundraiser specifically benefitted cancer research, enhanced services for local patients, and educational endeavors at the Center for Cancer Care & Research (CCCR). Other annual events include the Charity Golf Classic, Annual Gala, and the Aprons Fundraiser. An ongoing outreach provided by the foundation is the Arts in Medicine Program (AIM), a comprehensive offering established in 2008. Its purpose is to use healing arts to promote comfort and wellbeing for patients and families at the CCCR. Julie Boon, MM, MT-BC, is the AIM coordinator and was instrumental in its

An Outreach of the Watson Clinic Foundation Written By: Cheryl Johnston

development here. To create awareness of AIM’s benefits to cancer patients and their families, WCF established the “First Friday - Oncology on Canvas” event, in an effort to honor a gentleman named Jim Doig. He loved the arts and AIM for its healing influence. Although Doig recently passed from lung cancer, his legacy lives on in this free “happening” downtown. Artwork and interactive Healing Art activities will be on display April 1st in Munn Park. According to Boon, AIM helps cancer patients and their attending families during treatment to “transform their concern into communication.” Volunteer musicians, artists, writers, performers and educators combine their talents to benefit the patients, families and staff of the Center for Cancer Care and Research. Activities can be found in the lobbies, waiting rooms, and treatment rooms to create a healing, safe environment. Activities include: Story writing, journaling, painting (hat painting, ceiling tiles, scarf painting, Hands of Hope, origami, dried flower artistry, paper hope beads, beading, music therapy, performances, and clown visits.

Performances such as Barber Shop choirs, local string musicians and school singers are featured in chemotherapy rooms for everyone’s enjoyment. Everyone can paint or participate in projects, which help folks relax, escape, and refocus energy into creativity. Painting a scarf or hat to wear, creating a card to thank a caregiver or encourage a patient and rolling beads with a special note written inside are all examples of AIM’s creative healing activities. You can make a healing difference in our

community through donations of cash or art supplies or by volunteering your time and talent. Contact Julie Boon at 863-603-4718 to volunteer time, talents, and supplies, or visit the Arts in Medicine office inside the Center for Cancer Care & Research at 1730 Lakeland Hills Boulevard. Your timely gift is an investment in Polk County’s healthy future.

Watson Clinic Foundation

863-602-6220 1730 Lakeland Hills Boulevard

Music Therapy is an art in itself. At work in the chemotherapy rooms, it provides distraction from the medical procedures and offers patients the opportunity to express anxieties, hopes and dreams. As a Board Certified Music Therapist, Boon facilitates beneficial change in patients’ moods through conversation and music.

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Photo courtesy of Julie Boon FOCUS Magazine lakeland february 2011

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february 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

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entertainment » dining review Tuna appetizer served rare with fresh avocado salad, crunchy wontons and sesame Thai sauce. This is really like two appetizers in one - peppered slices of tuna is never a wrong choice for sushi lovers, and then there is the good sized portion of avocado salad in the middle. Avocado lovers will swoon over the salad made with chunks and mashed avocado, onions and other ingredients mixed in for complexity.

Photo by Tony Cartagena

For dinner we had the Argentinean style Chimichurri Steak, grilled and basted with a spicy citrus parsley and cilantro garlic pesto. Flavor is the name of the game with this steak, and it had great texture. The juice permeated aach bite. The pesto adds a unique take on eating steak. It is served on top center of the steak and you can spread however much you want over each bite. This adds a whole new dimension that I immediately appreciated.

The chop shops’ bounty of delicious Grub! Photo by Tony Cartagena

Grill Smith F

New American Cuisine

written By: John Ross

or our write up this month on a local restaurant, we at FOCUS Magazine thought we would head over to the Lakeland Grill Smith on Town Center Drive to try the restaurant that has carved out a large following for its refreshing take on American Cuisine. Entering the restaurant, the expectations are set for an upscale dining atmosphere: glass window décor, cloth booths, detailed floor tile designs and an open kitchen that seems to be made completely of stainless steel. Executive Chef Shane Bell and manager Lindsey Crowley gave us a run down of what Grill Smith is about. “It’s the favorites you grew up with, with a twist,” said Crowley. “There are influences from Central and South America, Europe, the Far East. We prepare the food with sauces with a little twist.” With sauces prepared from the South Western, Asian, and Pacific regions, they say customers are

february 2011 thefocusmagazine.com

excited to try something new when they come to Grill Smith. Asked what sets their restaurant apart from the competition, he said, “I’ve got the best team in the back, combined with a great menu and a great atmosphere. The people are the key.” Chef Shane Bell was eager to demonstrate the skills at Grill Smith with a food presentation for our tasting. “We’re just better,” he said, prepared to let the food do the talking. For a first appetizer we tried the Spicy Thai Shrimp, tossed in Sriracha aioli, served with a hot and sweet honey glaze. A pair of chopsticks added to the experience. You lift the shrimp off of the bed of lettuce and dip it into the thick sweet sauce. The breading made it crunchy and tart and the soy-based sauce made it sweet - absolutely delicious. These are worth being impolite over if you’re with a group and you want to take more than your fair share. We next tried the Seared Crunchy Ahi

We tried two different side items with the excellent steak - the Jalapeno Mac ‘n Cheese and the Au Gratin Potatoes. Once again, a new chord is struck with the Jalapeno Mac ‘n Cheese. The quality of the pasta is good in itself, and the jalapeno adds an expected kick for a welcome twist. The Au Gratin Potatoes dish was traditional in style, but flavored especially well with a huge amount of delicious cheese. Finally, we had two more appetizers: The Grilled Chicken Flatbread and the Margherita Flatbread. The Grilled Chicken Flatbread would win my award for strongest flavor of everything (and that’s not said lightly). Finished with Italian cheeses,

Photo by Tony Cartagena

caramelized onions, crumbled Gorgonzola, toasted pine nuts and garnished with arugula, one bite of this sent my taste buds into grilled heaven. The tastes of the ingredients blend well and the grilled chicken taste is, after all, very grilled. By then I realized that the cheeses served at Grill Smith are among the best cheeses I’ve had, and it really set off the Grilled Chicken Flatbread. The Margherita Flatbread was similar in quality and very different from the chicken - made with a blend of Italian cheeses, Roma tomatoes, whole milk mozzarella and fresh basil. Overall, we feel that Grill Smith serves refined American Cuisine with great skill with a focus on making perfect flavor through widely different sauce combinations and spices. I recommend trying the Spicy Thai Shrimp and the Grilled Chicken Flatbread for appetizers on your first visit, and the Chimichurri Steak to get a feeling for the uniqueness in the food that GrillSmith serves. For visits after that, the huge menu is yours.

grill smith The restaurant also specializes in catering and hosts a Car-Side to-go service. (863) 688-8844 1569 Town Center Dr. Lakeland, FL 33803 Monday – Thursday - 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday – Saturday - 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday - 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

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

sAtuRdAy, feb 19 » American Cancer Society - Cattle Baron’s Ball 6:00pm 4641 Hancock Ave. The American Cancer Society’s Cattle Baron’s Ball is a “denim and diamonds’ event that will host guests for an evening of dining, dancing, great music, gaming, entertainment, auctions, and other special attractions. Come celebrate our 10th Cattle Baron’s Ball Fundraiser and participate in the Biggest Birthday Party in Polk County. Reservations are required.

sAtuRdAy, feb 19 » 5th Annual Black heritage Festival 12:00pm Medulla Resources Center Admission is free and activities include live entertainment, Black history exhibits, food vendors, and a kids zone with arts & crafts and bounce houses. Food vendors will charge fees but all other activities are free.

tuesdAy, feb 22 » 65th Annual Tiger BBQ 6:00pm - 8:00pm Joker Marchant Stadium

wednesdAy, feb 23 » Alice in Wonderland Student Musical 7:00pm 310 McDonald St The price of admission is $2 and will be well-worth the time to come and see!

thuRsdAy, feb 24 » Alice in Wonderland Student Musical 7:00pm 310 McDonald St The price of admission is $2 and will be well-worth the time to come and see!

thuRsdAy, feb 24 » Ribbon Cutting - End Results a Salon Spa by Victoria Lynne 4:00 pm - 4:30pm 5315 S Florida Avenue

4:00pm - 4:30pm 4620 S. Florida Ave., Ste 103

fRidAy, mARch 11

sAtuRdAy, mARch 05 » Cookin’ Men 7:00pm - 9:00pm 701 West Lime Street The event will feature the culinary talents of local volunteer chefs, cooking up their specialties to raise funds for women’s and children’s services at Lakeland Regional Medical Center and Lakeland Regional Cancer Center.

thuRsdAy, mARch 10 » St. Joseph’s School Foundation 20th Annual Golf Tournament 11:30am 800 Lone Palm Drive

Up With People presents “ A Song for the World” 7:00pm 111 Lake Hollingsworth Drive

sAtuRdAy, mARch 12 » 9th Annual Spring Obsession, Garden and Art Festival 9:00am - 4:00pm Munn Park Enjoy a free family day of activities while exploring the many flowers and plants for sale, attend garden presentations, purchase art for the patio and listen to live music from the jazz band Free Time.

sAtuRdAy, feb 26 » Camp Fire USA Sunshine Council 7:00am 2600 Buckingham Ave All proceeds benefit the programs of Camp Fire USA. Spring Cleaning? Donate your items to Camp Fire! We take almost anything.

sAtuRdAy, feb 26 » Dr. Seuss Birthday Celebration 10:00am - 3:00pm 109 N Kentucky Ave Join in the fun as Explorations V Children’s Museum celebrates Dr Seuss with hands-on “Seussical” activities, stories and fun! Activities included with admission while supplies last!

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