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FOCUS Magazine south tampa march 2012
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tABLe oF CoNteNtS
Volume 3 Issue 1 • March 2012
focussouthtampa.com
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EDITORIAL
We have a wide array of editorials for you this month. In an issue dedicated to Jesuit High School, our very own Harrison Tropp has contributed his view of his first-class education and how beneficial it has been. Our Better You column gives you a few ideas for hosting a St. Patty’s Day party or lists potential events if you feel more like going out. Fred Pressley has some eating lean tips while Dan encourages golfers to push through and develop a routine for an amazing putt.
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LOCAL
If you’re looking for a great extra-curricular activity for your teenager where they can be surrounded by others their age driven to change the world, the South Tampa chapter of Young Life gives them that opportunity here and in Africa. This group is doing great things for young people and we hope you’re inspired by their Mission. In a similar goal, Jesuit Sophomore Trevor Sayers partners with Jesuit Alumni Andre Kerwin to bring community service to a new level in the community. They have a passion for the homeless in this city and are taking to the streets to do what they can with the blessings they’ve been given.
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SPOTLIGHT
FOCUS Magazine is proud to share the pages of this publication with Jesuit High School and the great environment and legacy they’ve created here in the Tampa Community. For years they’ve been mentoring young men and building a reputation of excellent education, Christian dedication and community service – teaching young men they are here to serve others. We’ve partnered with their staff and student body to bring you a glimpse of Jesuit’s Mission and success.
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EVENTS
If you’re looking for something exciting to do this month, check out the event calendar before you make your plans! Also, read our article on MaSquerade of Tampa Bay and one family’s fundraising efforts in hopes of finding a cure for MS. The Felder’s story will touch your heart! Share their experience and success and read about their upcoming events!
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DINING
This month we bring you American food…just good, classic food we love, but with a twist. Michael visited EATS American Grill on South Dale Mabry and gives you his favorites you absolutely NEED to try! MidWest BLT, Fried Pork Chop Sandwich, and Neapolitan Cheesecake…what’s not to love? Check out the sweet and heat in this month’s dining review. Jodi brings you a wine choice and tapas recipes to make your next get together a success. Her party was a huge success – make sure you read it and take some pointers!
LICENSING OPPORTUNITY
Licensed territories are available. We are looking to expand the family and are looking for motivated individuals to join our award winning team. If you are interested in owning your own Focus Magazine contact Mike Floyd at 813.707.8783 ext 26.
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march 2012 focussouthtampa.com
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Letter From The Editor
I’m one of those New Year’s Resolution people who resolve each January to lose weight, eat better and exercise more…usually I’m in line at the YMCA the first week of each year asking for a replacement member card as I’ve lost mine from LACK of use! This year though, I vowed to be different. I needed to lose some weight and I have a new puppy who needs the exercise. My downfall?? I LOVE food and HATE exercising, but more than anything, I don’t feel I have time to eat well, shop well and exercise, so I just quit them all. Before I could decide to commit or fail, my new friend and fellow columnist in this magazine, Fred Pressley from Max Muscle in South Tampa approached me about doing a revamp/makeover and featuring it in our magazine. The challenge will eventually be open to the public and we will solicit a reader to join their own challenge, but until then, they needed a guinea pig, and I’m it. The Challenge: follow a Nutritional Guideline set by Fred Pressley and use one of the Max Muscle Protein shakes once a day and to couple this with a new revolutionary, one-of-a-kind workout with Bob Kissel of MaxQ Fitness. Fred has me on a 1300 calorie/day diet that is a balance of Protein and Carbs with Low Fat. It’s taken some adjustment, but I feel better and a bit lighter…not necessarily in pounds, but just in my overall feel. Bob has me on my dream workout. Weight Lifting and Stretching geared toward Strength Training on five custom machines. The dreamy part of the work out? I’m in and out in 15 minutes two times a week – I can spare 30 minutes a week!! I’m on week 3 and that muscle in my thigh (I think it’s my quad) is hard as a rock and I can see the fattier/flabbier portions of my body thinning out a bit. My weight loss this month equaled the increase of muscle mass, so I’m making progress. The key to the success of this workout is that the workout forces you to reach muscular failure more often within a set, so your body triggers Anaerobic Energy System quicker. According to Bob, ANES is a high-octane fuel source within me that allows my body to produce immense strength in emergency situations as well as forces me to struggle through those last few repetitions in my workout – and trust me, it’s hard work! Through this process, small micro-tears form in my muscle so I can grow in strength between my two workouts. Bonus #2, no workout sessions needed between my sessions with Bob! Over the next few weeks, I will update you on my progress and hopefully you’ll see great changes from me and I’ll see them in me!
thai
For More on Nutrition, read Fred’s article in this month’s issue – he has some good pointers in there I plan to follow. If you’re interested in changing your body, but don’t have time to do it the traditional way, check out http://maxqfitness.com/. Or, keep reading and we’ll give you an opportunity to win a challenge of your own!
Christina Musial Editor-in-Chief Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information.
Publisher Jim Duke Editor in chief Christina Musial
www.focussouthtampa.com Advertising Director Harrison Tropp Standards of accuracy: The goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-warming stories that are accurate from the start. Being human, however, we sometimes make mistakes. Please forgive us.
Sales Sophia Hyde | Holly Farmer | Harrison Tropp Production Anthony Sassano | Tony Cartagena Photographers Ben Drummond
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So if you notice anything that is incorrect, then please do not hesitate to contact the editorial department and inform it about the fact error. To do so, call (813) 7078783 or e-mail focus@dukepublications.com. The staff will fix the error in a timely manner. FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local South Tampa businesses, restaurants and many local venues.
Staff Writers Christina Musial | Harrison Tropp Jodi Lokay Contributors Al Ruechel | Kim Francis | Emery Jones Teal McKenzie | Rachel Drummond
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 Duke Publications, Inc. Use or duplication of material used in this publication is prohibited without approved written consent from Duke Publications, Inc.
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better community» Focus
The Jesuit Experience T
Jesuit High School Represents a Beacon of Academic Achievement in Tampa Bay
Story by: Harrison Tropp
ampa is littered with exceptional schools. Whether the choice is private, public, international baccalaureate, or a form of specialized education, there is no lack of educational opportunity. Growing up in Tampa my parents, like most, performed countless hours of due diligence before selecting schools for me. High school, however, was an exception. While the input of my parents was certainly necessary and warranted in choosing a high school, the ultimate decision was my preference. My suggestion was natural and instantaneous; I wanted to attend Jesuit High School. Upon hearing my proposal, my parent’s initial reaction was mixed. They knew Jesuit was a fine academic institution but both had attended Plant High School, as did my grandfather, and my faith in Judaism was a stark contrast to the teachings of a Catholic
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March 2012 focussouthtampa.com
high school. Understanding their concerns, I chose to appease their apprehension and decisively choose. My choice of Jesuit was one of the most deliberate decisions I had made at the time and certainly since. I could not determine the actual reasoning except strong feeling to attend. I knew the fit would be more than acceptable and I began school in August of 2002.
Beginning Jesuit was no easy task. Students unused to a structured academic program were essentially catapulted into an environment of discipline and challenge. Jesuit’s arduous curriculum and regarded reputation forced students to apply themselves not only in the classroom, but in the variety of programs offered. Each student was encouraged to sample the school’s assortment of clubs, programs, and athletics, while maintaining an ever-present faith in
God. If the above was not met, for better or worse, students were asked to forfeit their opportunities and seek education elsewhere. I understood early on that the latter outcome was simply not an option. I made a conscious effort to meet as many people as possible and develop a personal relationship with those teachers around me. Perhaps the most important relationship I formed over my four years was with the school’s President, Fr. Joseph Doyle. I had the opportunity to meet Fr. Doyle prior to my acceptance and he instantly became a devout source of direction and wisdom. I will always be appreciative for his guidance. In reflecting on my experience at Jesuit, embracing the school’s many challenges gave me the opportunity to succeed in academics and beyond. Like all students in my class, I was placed in a school whose
faculty and administration considered my individual achievement among its highest priorities. These achievements were not only reflective in grades or test scores, but in my development as a person. The teachers I had genuinely cared and placed challenges along my academic career to test the boundaries and limits of my individual character. Jesuit was not an institution that rewarded immature defiance but challenged students to become the best within themselves. The mantra of Jesuit is “Men for Others.” This simplistic phrase never grew old and served as a constant reminder of my responsibility to the school and the community. While there are undoubtedly many schools where a student can develop and thrive, Jesuit High School is responsible for the person I am today and I offer the school my sincere gratitude.
FOCUS Magazine south tampa march 2012
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health » Focus
A RECIPE FOR EATING THE MAX MUSCLE SOUTH TAMPA WAY LEAN E Story by: Fred Pressley, M.Ed., NESTA CSNC
ating healthy can be a challenge for a busy person. If you’re a parent, it gets even more difficult as your kids bring snack foods into the house. All the fast food restaurants and TV dinners available often leave you wondering: What exactly is and is not healthy? Is there something we can eat that will give us the physique we want and still eat things that taste good? The answer is yes. The first step is recognizing what is and what is not healthy to eat. We may choose to eat unhealthy items from time to time, but at least we will know when we are doing it and can then compensate for it later.
the day, and should be your largest. So, what if you’re someone who can’t stomach a lot of food first thing in the morning? Drink a protein shake, then wait an hour and have a large mid-morning meal that consists of quality protein (such as egg whites, fish or lean chicken) and carbohydrates (such as oatmeal or grits). Bonus: Prepare your meals the night before so that you have everything you need for the day at your fingertips. You can even prepare your meals a few days before and freeze them if that is easier for you. Being prepared eliminates the temptation.
Top 10 Tips For Healthy Eating
Recipe Suggestions: Here are some recipe suggestions to get you started on your new healthy eating plan.
1. Anytime you can eat fresh food, do so. Even if the TV dinner you are heating up claims to be a health food, it isn’t. Avoid fast food. The preservatives and sodium often required to help food last in its frozen or packaged state can be unhealthy when consumed in large quantities. 2. Buy organic meat whenever possible. Look for meats that have not been pumped full of growth hormone or preservatives. Organic food may cost a little more, but your health will benefit from it. 3. Avoid foods that are high in sugar, sodium and trans fats. If you are going to eat a food that you know is not healthy for you, make certain you adjust the rest of your diet. 5. Drink lots of water to help flush toxins from your system. 6. Do not skip meals! Skipping meals actually slows your metabolism down. Your body thinks it is being starved and will look to conserve body fat and dump lean muscle. 7. Eat some form of protein approximately every three hours. Even if you’re a vegetarian, you can mange this by consuming a protein shake. Not only will protein help you maintain valuable muscle, it will also help regulate your insulin levels. Keeping insulin under control helps you control your cravings. 8. Breakfast is the most important meal of
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March 2012 focussouthtampa.com
Garden Egg White Omelet: 4 egg whites 2 sliced mushrooms 1 tablespoon of diced onion 2 tablespoons of diced tomato 1 teaspoon of fresh basil 2 tablespoons of low-fat cheese Spray a canola oil based spray on your cooking pan. Sauté mushrooms first. Then add in the egg whites and your other ingredients. Once the omelet is almost finished, sprinkle cheese across the top.
mix. Add bananas to the top and to the mix if desired. Orange Vit-Acell Chicken: A lean chicken breast 1⁄2 a cup of fresh-squeezed orange juice (directly from the orange) 1 tablespoon of Max Vit-Acell 1⁄2 cup of broccoli 1⁄2 cup of carrots 1⁄4 sliced almonds (optional) 1 cup of steamed white rice Sauté diced chicken breast in a pan that has been sprayed with a canola oil spray or olive oil. Mix in the broccoli, carrots, Max VitAcell and orange juice. When the chicken is fully cooked, place over a bed of steamed white rice and sprinkle with almonds. Dessert Suggestions: We all need something sweet on occasion. Here are some recipes that will satisfy your sweet tooth without
hurting your progress. Max Gourmet Protein Ice Cream Pie: 4 cups of low-fat vanilla ice cream 6 scoops of Max Gourmet 4 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter 1 graham cracker crust pie shell Whip together the ice cream, Max gourmet protein and peanut butter until creamy. Pour your mix into the pie shell and place in the freezer over night. In the morning you will have a protein ice cream pie. You can substitute other flavors if you wish and eliminate the peanut butter. Adding whip cream is optional. If you don’t want the graham cracker crust, use an ice tray to pour the mixture in. Insert popsicle sticks in each or just keep as cubes. For those who are true chocolate lovers, you can drizzle low-fat chocolate syrup across the top. Just keep it in moderation.
Max Gourmet Oatmeal: 1 cup of instant, plain whole oats 1 1⁄2 scoops of Max Gourmet protein 1 cup of water (add more or less depending on how you like your oatmeal) Mix whole oats and water in a large bowl and place in the microwave for one minute. When finished stir contents and heat again if needed. Once oatmeal is cooked, stir in your favorite flavor of Max Gourmet Protein Pancakes: 1 scoop of Max Gourmet with your pancake
Fred Pressley, M.Ed., NESTA Certified Sports Nutrition Coach For more information you can contact or visit Fred at Max Muscle Sports Nutrition in South Tampa, 813-253-2300.
golF » Focus
puTTinG under pressure H story by: don CosTanZo, golFTEC TaMpa, dirECTor oF insTruCTion
ow to become a great pressure putter, may simply come down to having a ROUTINE, every putt. Consistently performing the same pre-putt routine allows you to execute when the heat is on. The first step happens before the round begins. If you pay close attention you will notice that most tour players mark their ball with a thin black line to help them aim consistently. After reading a putt a tour player picks a line that he/she intends to start the golf ball rolling on. He/she then aims the line on their golf ball down their intended line. You will also notice they adjust the ball on every putt. They are aligning the black line to their intended line before putting. After aiming their golf ball they use the site line on their
putter to align it directly with the line on their golf ball. This ensures their putter face is aimed exactly where they want the golf ball to start rolling. A great device to help you draw a straight line on your ball and therefore aim your golf ball correctly is called the Spotliner. It is best to use a permanent marker to ensure that the line doesn’t smudge. Before every putt place your ball-marker behind the ball and clean off any mud that may throw the ball off line. After cleaning your ball; use the line you have drawn on the ball to aim your golf ball in the direction that you want the putt to start. Leave your ball-marker on the ground behind the ball and take a step back to ensure that the line on your ball is aimed exactly
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where you want it. Once you are sure that the ball is aimed in the right direction remove your ball-marker and take a couple practice putting strokes to get a feel for the correct stroke length needed to roll your ball. Then approach the ball from the side and place your putter head behind the ball aligning the line on your ball and the putter head exactly. You can now confidently take your stance knowing that you are aimed correctly. Once aimed correctly you can focus on the distance you need to hit the putt and ultimately make more putts.
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consumer » Focus
ThAnK YOu Mr. may i Have anotHer? BAnKer, sir! o story by: sE day
n October 3, 2008 Banks were deemed “Too Big to Fail” and President Bush signed into law TARP (Troubled Asset Relief Program), a $700 billion government capitalized fund to bail out banks with troubled assets (i.e. toxic mortgages and faulty mortgage-back securities). The government was to purchase these assets and equities from financial institutions to strengthen its financial sectors. This act was signed into law one month before the 2008 presidential elections, a parting gift from George Bush to his buddies in the banking industry.
Here is where the parting gift gets interesting! The U.S. government gave ‘our’ (as in U.S. tax payer’s) money to the banks to purchase the “troubled assets” but the banks did not honor the agreement. Instead, the banks held the money for an extended
period of time and made billions in regular overnight trading with the money provided by the government. When the Obama administration asked for the troubled assets, the banks said “NO! We are going to keep the assets but repay the borrowed money to settle our debt with you!” The Obama administration then pressured the banks to help the troubled homeowners by refinancing their mortgages and to start lending again to move the economy forward. However without any leverage and with continued support in the U.S. congress, the banks said “NO! Thank you for the TARP money and allowing us to make billions on the interestfree loan. However, we are not stable enough to start lending again and since we gave you back your money you can’t make us.” It was a very smart move on the bankers who had insider help and a very dumb move on the government, the inside helpers. Score
it with a very slippery substance called ‘greed.’ My hope is that Americans take the time to become finance literate, demand accountability, and create calls to action or we will find ourselves saying, “Thank you Mr. Banker, may I have another? Sir!”
3-0 Banks (1-point for the parting gift; 1-point for making money overnight on our money; 1-point for refusing to lend.) On February 9, 2012 the Obama administration in conjunction with several states’ attorney generals, the Security and Exchange Commission, and the Justice Department reached a $25 billion National Mortgage Settlement deal with five of the nation’s largest banks over charges of systemic and widespread mortgage fraud. Ally/GMAC, Bank of America, Citi, JP Morgan Chase, and Wells Fargo were all willing participants in this systemic and widespread fraud. Score 4-1 Banks (I had to give the banks an additional point. They avoided prison and they are repaying $25 billion cumulatively from the money they made on the use of our money in overnight trading.)
I would love to hear your feedback and your agreement or disagreement to my OPED. Feel free to write me at OPED@legallysteal. com. S.E. Day is a personal finance expert and a consumer advocate radio host of the Legally Steal Show.
Good Job Mr. Obama for earning a point but the banks are still ahead by 3 points. The banks will remain ahead until “We the People” take control of our personal financial lives and tell the banks, “Don’t Ignore US!” because we have a voice. Financial corporate executives and detached politicians have created a 70 degree slope and coated
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Local » Focus
YoungPromoting Life Provides Teen like-minded relationships Haven around the world I Story by: Rachel Drummond
n the midst of a society caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, my largest group was forty and my smallest there is a safe haven for teenagers in the was 25 in seven years. People of all ages South Tampa area. An organization which started joining the trip,” Conner said. began in Tampa in 1972 has managed to Conner says it all started with a mission’s trip maintain stability not only in Tampa but all and then the opportunity of a lifetime arose over the country, and even better – all over “Three years ago I was asked to join the the world. This organization has a mission Young Life Africa staff. My job is training to allow teenagers the opportunity to gain and development – I take teenagers and a relationship with like-minded peers, but families to Africa once a year, where we work more importantly a relationship with God. with Young Life there. I go about three more Young Life has become a home for teenagers times a year to run training to African Young – as clubs in high schools and also as a Life staffers, all over the continent.” weekly gathering place, and a summer get Conner says her job is to teach and train away. Kathy Conner, former Young Life people involved in Young Life – Africa. South Tampa director, says that Young Life “I’m [teaching them] the DNA of how to do is designed to take any type of teenager ministry with teenagers,” Conner said. and allow them to recognize their Photo provided by Kathy Conner potential and build a relationship with God. “We are committed to all kids – we want to reach every teenager. We are working with teenagers in inner city areas, suburban areas and we even have a club for disabled kids,” Conner said. The task at hand is large, Conner says, “We are seeking to reach every kid, every teenager.” Young Life does this through an assortment of camps throughout the summer, weekly programs and even missions trips. The mission to reach all kids has even led to the development of a club geared towards middle school aged kids called Wyld Life. As South Tampa directors continue to make an impact locally, former director Kathy Conner has taken it across the Atlantic. Welcome to Young Life – Africa. “Seven years ago I was taking teenagers from South Tampa on a missions group to Africa,
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programs that re-committed to helping kids change their entire lifestyles. “Young life even Photo provided by Kathy Conner has a program “Developing Global there for a season and end up being leaders Leaders” where we are discovering sharp in their country because that’s what their teenagers who have intelligence to go to parents are and they ultimately do that as college and succeed. We have raised money well.” to send them to college in Africa and also assigned a mentor so they do well in school Conner says that with everything they do and also learn how to work with young Life.” they are seeking to make an impact, even if that means working in the worst conditions. Conner says the ultimate goal of the “The ministry is very broad how we are program is to train these young adults to trying to address all the major issues in their lives, but also in their hearts. When I take a group of teenagers [to Africa], we work in a Sokoine 1, a slum. We built a preschool for children whose parents died of Aids. But that same place holds Young Life and Wyld Life events every week – mentoring, teaching, things like that.” Conner says that giving those children hope is the most important thing they can offer them. “I’ve seen kids who didn’t have any hope about their lives at all, now have hope and are being equipped to succeed in their life and find the way to succeed in a continent where that is a hard task.”
Conner says that Young Life – Africa is roughly 12 years old, and in this short span of time it has managed to find great success. She says that separate staffs have flourished all across Africa that are run by other Africans teaching the grace of God. “It is growing like wild fire across the continent- we are in 15 countries and we are even developing into places that people might consider dangerous. But, people in these areas want teenagers to have hope. It’s been amazing.” Young Life has further developed the
actively work within Young Life. She says that the idea is for them to take all that they have learned and turn around to take it back to their home countries or communities. Along with ‘Developing Global Leaders’, Young Life has an International School Staff. Conner says that this program is so beneficial because it gives Young Life staff an opportunity to work with young adults from all over the world who have parents in leadership positions in their countries. “Reaching them is so profound because these kids are coming from India, China, The United States; all over the world. They are
Conner says that they have also run many drives that have provided shoes and necessities for these children in Africa. A student this past year, even raised enough money on his own to provide kids with their own soccer jerseys to wear in recreation. Conner says that even at this point, a Young Life soccer team in Africa found great success and won a trophy, which they selflessly gave to her. Conner said that moment touched her heart because those kids were willing to give something they had earned on their own to someone that they had invested their trust. She said they do what they do for kids to be impacted in the way that this soccer team was, and for these words; “We want you to always remember that God is good – because you have shown us that God is good.”
Local » Focus
No Strings Attached Jesuit Student & Alumni join hands to give to others in a big way
Story by: Christina Musial
I
t’s not often the typical sixteen year old thinks of anything other than driving, a new car, athletics and themselves. However, it seems that young men who graduate from Jesuit High School have a different view of the world and their part in it.
in return. “We give them the tangibles, essentials we take for granted. My garage is full every year of donations. We want to do something tangible to fill the void,” Kirwan said. Trevor was no stranger to community and charity work prior to attending Jesuit and striking up a bond with Kirwan. His family has a strong Christian and Godly influence in which giving back is key and vital to their success. In fact, his dad, Dr. Neal Sayers, owns HealthSource Chiropractic in Tampa, and each month the office sponsors a different charity through raffles, events, and flyers distributed to patients. So, when he
As a graduation requirement, Jesuit students must complete at least 150 hours of Community Service. The school offers opportunities for students to accrue these hours, however many choose to branch out on their own and find their own cause or passion to dedicate their time to. One such student is Trevor Sayers, currently a sophomore at Jesuit. Awhile back, Trevor Photo provided by Dr. Neal Sayers was introduced to Jesuit Alumni Andre Kirwan who was serving as a sports trainer. While their relationship began merely as a training session, it grew to be much more. This story starts with Kirwan. Five years ago, Kirwan came to the realization that he had so much compared to the little others had and was compelled to do something about that. “I woke up feeling fortunate and blessed. So many people have little. We don’t even realize the surplus we have. The plight of the unfortunate has always tugged at my heartstrings,” Kirwan said. In an effort to do something for people he had never met, he sent an email to friends and family to collect clothing for the homeless and distribute on Thanksgiving and Christmas. The first year, he collected 3,000 items. He calls the event “No Strings Attached” and hopes to apply for nonprofit status soon tin order to create an organization that aids the efforts. The name is exactly what it says – giving the homeless of Tampa tangible items expecting nothing
only does Trevor support and help Andre with No Strings Attached, but he dedicates Photo provided by Dr. Neal Sayers every Tuesday night to feeding the The amazing part of No Strings Attached homeless with his local church. is that every article of clothing donated and received is given out. If it’s not distributed Dr. Sayers attributes this outlook of Trevor’s on Thanksgiving or Christmas, it is given to to a Biblical teaching they, as a family, stand Metropolitan Ministries for their clothing by and that Jesuit teaches to their students as bank. But, the people downtown look well. “Everyone is in Ministry in some way forward to the distribution and they know or other. At some point we will all hopefully Andre and Trevor are coming. have Time, Talent and Treasures. We are required to use at least one of those to help Andre Kirwan and the Sayers family have had great success working together as they live by the same philosophy; the gifts they’ve been blessed with were not gained on their own merit, and they don’t belong to them anyway, they are given by God and are to be used for His purpose. Their favorite scriptures are evidence of this. Andre: Luke 12:48 – “To whom much is given, much is required.” Dr. Sayers: Proverbs 11:25 – “He that watereth shall be watered also himself.” As they will tell you, there is nothing wrong with profit and having good things, but money is not always what makes one wealthy. “There are different ways to measure wealth. It’s about how you use it. I was told money is a byproduct of good intentions. And there’s something good if you live life like that,” said Dr. Sayers.
heard of this opportunity, he jumped at the chance.
others. Right now, Trevor has time and he’s giving that,” said Dr. Sayers.
This year, through their solicitation of friends, family, Dr. Sayers’ patients, and just word of mouth, they gathered 10,000 items to distribute to the homeless. “Trevor and Andre sorted the donations in Andre’s garage. It’s great to see the stuff that was planted in Andre’s heart is now being planted in Trevor’s”, said Dr. Neal Sayers. After being part of this program, Trevor took on his own burden for helping those in need. “After Thanksgiving, I looked at my house and all my stuff and I knew my Dad had worked hard for it. The least I can do is give my time, my love and my effort. It’s just about being their friend,” said Trevor. Not
Kirwan definitely attributes some of his passion for service to his education at Jesuit, but he also says it has just become something enjoyable and worthwhile for him. “Community Service is infectious. Once you get bit, it’s with you. It doesn’t become work, and then it’s just engrained in you to give back,” said Kirwan. Although the clothes are the tangible items given out, Kirwan says there is more to the gift. “Clothing is a means to an end. We don’t want to just give them a handout, we want them to know God has a plan for their life.”
Kirwan believes the key to their current and continued success is that it has become their heartbeat. “When you have a passion for something, it’s not work. Trevor is in the grind thinking about who he can touch next, and that encourages me. This has wrecked me for life in a good way. It’s about leaving a legacy – impacting hearts, minds and souls,” said Kirwan. In 2012, Trevor and Kirwan are preparing to be an even larger blessing to those in their community – giving everything they can in recognition and thanks for all they’ve been given.
FOCUS Magazine south tampa march 2012
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spotligHtÂť Jesuit HigH scHool
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Spotlight» Jesuit High School HISTORY OF JESUIT SINCE 1899 Founded by St. Ignatius de Loyola in 1540, the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits) are one of the oldest orders in the Catholic Church. Therefore, it only makes sense that Jesuit High School is one of the oldest schools in the Bay area. A Tampa tradition that focuses not just on the routine day-to-day academic approach to student development, but one that molds a culture of selfless service to others – “men for others” – a common phrase that is used and put into daily action at the only all-male high school in the region. But any successful organization knows that to withstand the test of time it must be able to adapt to change. Originally founded as Sacred Heart College (the European term for a secondary school) in downtown Tampa in 1899, the school began from very humble beginnings. Initially schools for young boys, students as young as nine years old were considered for admission “so long as they could read and write.” Just five students were enrolled on the first day of class. Today, the college preparatory school boasts a full enrollment, a vibrant student activities program, and is considered by many as one of the finest academic institutions in the state. By Steve Matesich, Director of Admissions, Jesuit High School At 7:55 a.m. a bell rings and the doors of St. Anthony’s Chapel are opened. Conversations are ended, ties are pulled tight and straight, lines are formed and fed neatly and silently into the chapel—a rock of a building, the heart and center of the Jesuit High School campus. Look at these young men. A student body of full enrollment. They come from 98 different feeder schools and four counties. Each day they arrive here – in a number of different cars from a number of different neighborhoods. Count them as they pass through the doorway and side-step to their assigned seats. Nearly one in three of these young men have received need-based financial aid. The places they come from are as varied as what they look like, what they laugh at, what they’re good at and Jesuit committed over $1.5 million dollars in financial aid this school year alone to make sure that such a variation doesn’t keep any boy from his spot under the chapel’s roof. Keep your eyes on these young men because while the story of how each of them got to Jesuit is inspiring, the stories of where these young men go after Jesuit are the stories that will impact the entire community long after they’ve graduated. Jesuit students hear about what kind of men they ought to be every morning in this chapel. They are driven to be open to personal growth, to be intellectually competent, religious, loving and to be committed to doing justice. Jesuit alumni often visit morning Convocation to share how they have lived out these pillars in their lives as adults. Today in the chapel is no different. Watch him as he points out into the sea of current Jesuit students and singles out his old seat—“I used to sit right there, right where you are sitting right now.” Now listen to the leadership and change that he has brought to those around him as an adult in the community. He is showing the students that they each have the power to make a difference in the lives of others. A message that doesn’t sit unstirred. Look around. You are looking at the future leaders of this city, this community, and, likely, this country. Soon, the bell will ring again and this sea of students will rise like a wave and pump out of the heart, the chapel focused and determined to give the day all that they have. They know that this campus, and the brotherhood that they have with one another, has a funny way of transforming lives, of changing boys into men. With the ring of that bell starts a day of academic rigor, strong faith, and a passion for one another that has been part of Jesuit High School in Tampa since 1899. Yes, once that bell rings, these young men will stand and leave the chapel, but don’t think for a moment that you won’t see them again.
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Spotlight» Jesuit High School THE IGNATIAN INFLUENCE AT JESUIT The Ignatian philosophy for which the school was founded stresses the importance to “find God in all things.” That focus remains clearly evident throughout the campus. In fact, the student chapel is literally and figuratively the center of campus. The entire student body gathers there in silence every morning before the start of classes for prayer. All students attend Mass (wearing coat and tie) at least once each month, and are required to take Theology each year. In addition, all students are also required to participate in annual retreats, which help to develop the student both intellectually and spiritually. By Brian Greenfield, Director of Campus Ministry, Jesuit High School St. Ignatius said that “Love is shown more in deeds than in words.” At Jesuit High School we do our utmost to make that a reality. Being a follower of Christ requires an effort to live in imitation of Christ. Our goal is to form our students to become men of God, who testify to the truth of the Gospel through the lives that they live. We do this through a demanding theology curriculum, through liturgies, and finally through our retreat program. Through the work in the classrooms and through community service, Jesuit students learn that in the service of our brothers, we serve Christ. Inspired by this knowledge, we strive to be “men for others.” In addition to serving others we recognize that all of our actions begin with, end with, and have their existence in God. All of our endeavors, whether they are in the classroom or on the field of play, are done Ad Mejorem Dei Gloriam, a Latin term meaning “for the greater glory of God.” The liturgy is the living out of our faith. In addition to offering daily Mass, before school for those who desire, a school-wide Mass is offered at least once a month. In addition to Mass we also have adoration as a community monthly. We provide opportunities for the sacrament of reconciliation, and we also begin our days with a daily Convocation; an extremely unique experience where the whole school family gathers in St. Anthony’s Chapel. Convocations are a time in the morning when the school gathers to pray and receive a message that will challenge and encourage us to grow in the image of Christ. The goal of the convocation is for the Jesuit community to gather to receive a spiritually uplifting message that will enhance their day and their lives. Convocation can consist of a meditation, uplifting message, personal testimony, spiritual teaching, or an informative message about some aspect of life. The convocations are powerful because they promote reflection and bring about the growth of the individual. The Retreat Program is a more deliberate way that we attempt to strengthen the faith of our students. The retreats are led by the Campus Minister and assisted by the school’s peer ministers. The peer ministers lead the retreats and put their faith into action in service of their brothers. As freshman, our students have a retreat as an entire freshman community. This retreat is designed, like all retreats, to strengthen the students’ relationship with God. It also introduces the student to what it means to be part of a Jesuit school, it strengthens their bonds of brotherhood, and finally, it introduces students to reflection. Throughout their next three years they attend, class level, days of reflection where they focus on virtues in which they will need to grow as men of God. In addition to the days of reflection, juniors are able to take part in the three day Kairos retreat. Kairos means the “Lord’s Time.” In our busy, and noisy society, Kairos, gives our students a chance to meet God in silence. It is a prayerful and reflective time where students are able to get away from their normal cares in order to learn how to hear the voice of God in their lives and discern God’s movements. The Kairos retreat has been known to be one of the most memorable and powerful experiences that Jesuit students have in their four years. It has been a way for students to deepen their faith, grow in the confidence that they are indeed loved, and solidify their bonds of brotherhood. Kairos is a living example of the motto by St. Ignatius of Loyola that, “Love is shown more in deeds than in words.” Seniors are given the option to take part in a day of reflection, similar to the ones that students attend in previous years, a Father-Son retreat, and a Silent Directed retreat. The Father-Son retreat is a time to the student to attend a retreat with their fathers. The goal is for them to grow in relationship, communicate, and encourage one another. The Silent Directed retreat pairs a student with a spiritual director. It teaches the seniors about discernment and how to hear the voice of God in silence.
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Spotlight» Jesuit High School INTELLECTUALLY COMPETENT The academic standards of Jesuit High School include a college prep curriculum that truly models that of higher learning institutions. Seventy-six percent of the faculty has advanced degrees. And many members of the faculty or staff, (25 to be exact), are either current Jesuit parents, or parents of Jesuit grads. This means, academically, Jesuit may be in a class its own. The average ACT score for a Jesuit student is a 27 (the national average is a 21), and Jesuit’s average SAT scores are 320 points above the national average. This year, six students have been named National Merit Semifinalists; one of the highest academic honors attainable for a high school senior, representing the top one percent of nearly 1.5 million applicable college bound seniors! And Jesuit’s student-athletes are truly students first. In fact, last year the athletic program finished the year ranked in the top five in the state in terms of overall grade point average (GPA) with 3.396. The school maintains the traditional grading scale, so you won’t find their top students with overinflated GPA’s. But according to senior guidance counselor, Joe Kijanski, college admissions officers fully understand the unique style of Jesuit educational institutions when reviewing applicants. And judging by the stats of last year’s graduating class, colleges seem to prefer Jesuit students. Of the 151 graduates from the Class of 2011, 100 percent were accepted into 145 colleges and universities. One hundred forty six (97 percent of the class) earned 501 academic or athletic scholarship offers, including 127 Florida Bright Futures Scholarships. The total value of these scholarships exceeded $19 million! This is proof that a Jesuit education is a sound investment for both parents and students. By Barry Neuburger, Principal, Jesuit High School Jesuit High School is part of a network of outstanding universities and high schools across the United States. Although each academic institution has its own unique identity, there is great similarity found in each school. The reason for this commonality is due to the foundational beliefs that permeate Jesuit education. The Jesuit education is a much a deeper experience than mastery of academic content. Jesuit education is a formational journey, a collaboration that engages students in an ongoing personal relationship. Students come to Jesuit at different levels of spiritual, intellectual, emotional and physical maturity. Students are valued as individuals and treated with empathy. It is in those personal relationships that each of us is called to maximize learning opportunities and asked to work to our fullest potential. Any chance for success begins with authentic relationships that develop among students and the adults in the Jesuit community. Jesuit education often speaks of “cura personalis” a Latin term meaning care for the individual. No term more accurately defines the brotherhood that forms here. Our students come to Jesuit to share our commitment to the pursuit of excellence in all things as a lifelong endeavor. They come to join a community whose members – stakeholders – believe that education must encompass the whole person: spiritually, morally and intellectually. This is an experience of the heart which asks much of its students. The culture of Jesuit education can be described in these terms, “high expectations in a supportive environment.” This can only work in a setting that offers personal attention and care to each member of the Jesuit community. Through an academically rigorous, values-centered curriculum, our graduates leave us academically prepared and confident to continue their studies at the university level, ready to engage the increasing complexities of their world. In the best traditions of Jesuit education, our students are presented with opportunities which foster a spiritual awakening; a transformational experience as a means of discovering God. We work to develop a set of values that go beyond self which includes a concern for the needs of others. These young men care about each other and give much of themselves through service opportunities throughout the Tampa Bay community. Simply put, the Jesuit experience is unlike any other. We are educating leaders, men of action with the knowledge, skills, and abilities that will work for the betterment of society. FOCUS Magazine south tampa march 2012
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Spotlight» Jesuit High School COMMUNITY SERVICE: ONE OF THE PILLARS THAT JESUIT STANDS ON Simply stated, Jesuit students are committed to doing justice. In an effort to expose students to the importance of understanding the needs of others, and as a means to put Gospel readings into action, Jesuit students are required to participate in a strict community service program that involves working hands-on directly with the poor, sick, elderly, disabled, or at-risk youth. All Jesuit students must complete no less than 150 hours of service prior to graduation. Many student clubs also devote themselves to social causes and helping others. Just last month 34 students of the Pro-Life Club participated in a pilgrimage to Washington, DC for the annual “March for Life” protesting the Supreme Court’s 1973 Roe v. Wade decision to legalize abortion. The Agmen Christi, a spiritual-service orientated group, frequently travels to Belle Glades tending to the families of migrant workers. The Environmental Club, in addition to participating in Coastal Cleanup, initiated a campus paper recycling program that has collected 13.4 tons of paper/cardboard that has been recycled and saved 227 trees! The Key Club, Jesuit’s largest service organization, participates in service projects every weekend and has been recognized internationally for excellence in community service. Although these are just a few of the clubs mentioned Jesuit High School is a blessing for our community. By Arthur Dupree, Director of Community Service, Jesuit High School A college preparatory school that was founded in 1899, Jesuit High School is an institution steeped in tradition and brimming with history. For nearly 113 years, the sole purpose and mission of Jesuit has been to offer an unparalleled experience of formation and growth in mind and heart for the young men of the Tampa Bay community. There is a standard of excellence and a tradition of charity and service that are the bedrock of the Jesuit experience. The Jesuit Community Service program embodies the core mission of the school—to mold and foster “men for others”—through challenging and encouraging students to excel in their service of others. The basic premise of the program is that the young men are going out into the Tampa Bay community, to the people in most dire of situations, and working and interacting with them directly. Jesuit students completed nearly 40,000 hours of community service during the 2010-11 academic year. There are no limits, no boundaries, no hindrances that will inhibit Jesuit students from pursuing greatness in their service and extending sincere hope and compassion to those they serve. And they are not alone. The entire Jesuit community – from the faculty and staff, and the Mothers’ and Dads’ Clubs, to the vibrant and loyal force of Jesuit alumni, embraces and upholds the great responsibility and calling to serve the needs of our neighbors. Due to an inspiring, collaborative, community-wide effort, Jesuit provided well over 100 underprivileged or at-risk families with Thanksgiving dinners and raised over 16,000 pounds of canned food and dry goods for local food pantries in just two months. In just over eight weeks, the school annually raises between $15,000-$20,000 to fund educational programs and housing for destitute communities in Central America. But as necessary and valiant these aforementioned efforts are, the students do not opt to simply give money or food; rather, the young men give of their time, of their emotions, and of their heart. The men of Jesuit seek to replace hardship with hope and desolation with dignity. Every spring, Jesuit sons and fathers help coordinate the Special Olympics—an event that enlivens the mentally and physically disabled in Hillsborough County through the scope of sports. Jesuit also provides a summer school program for high-achieving and high potential youth known as the Jesuit Summer Bridge Program. Jesuit students help coordinate and lead a unique experience that cultivates growth through faith, academics, arts, and athletics. Tradition carries expectations and standards that can sometimes be considered burdensome or unattainable. But the mission of Jesuit High School, much like its students, is distinctive and driven. The young men take tremendous pride and purpose in preserving and promoting the ideals of Jesuit’s founder, St. Ignatius of Loyola.
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Spotlight» Jesuit High School
OPEN TO GROWTH The normal high school experience for Jesuit students is very different from most high schools. For example, students not only adapt to an environment without girls, but a dress code that requires students to be clean shaven, shirts tucked in and neatly pressed dress pants, in addition to the neatly groomed hair. But this discipline allows students to find their way during their four years at Jesuit. It allows them to overcome obstacles, and go from ordinary to extraordinary. By Victor Oberschall, Class of 2012 As a freshman, in the fall of 2008, I arrived at Jesuit as average guy – average height, average grades, and an average commitment to service. I had helped my mom at her elementary school, but never considered a life of service or leadership before coming to Jesuit. When I started at Jesuit I didn’t know a lot of people but my dad’s friend and his son recommended joining Jesuit’s Key Club so that I could meet people and get my required service done. So I joined. In my first week of Key Club, I decided to sign up for a service project every day for a week. We went to elementary schools, to the V.A. Hospital and to other sites around the Tampa Bay area. It gave me a chance to try and experience everything, and I loved every minute of every service project. Doing service gave me joy. During my time with the Key Club I got so involved that the moderator, Mrs. (Eileen) Charette, invited me to join the leadership team after only two months. That was quite an honor. It was then that I found out that this new role required public speaking. Although I was a good student who loved service, I feared speaking in front of groups. This leadership position required that I speak in front of more than 100 of my peers every week. I did the only thing I could think of and tried to disappear from leadership. It almost worked, but I ended up trying some small speaking moments – like leading prayer for the club and helping other leaders with their announcements. After a while, I forgot to be nervous. Since then, I have spoken in front of the club almost weekly; I have helped lead workshops at state conferences, spoken at the Kiwanis Club of Tampa, and recently led Convocation for our whole school. I have attended dozens of leadership trainings and conventions for Key Club and love every minute of my leadership. Easily, this has led me to become more confident; I worked hard and am taking honors and Advanced Placement classes. I have challenged myself to apply to colleges that demand the strongest academic and extracurricular requirements. Through my volunteering and community service I have developed a true love for working with special needs children and adults. They may have taught me to become fearless as well. My experience at Jesuit, with our Key Club, and taking advantage of my leadership opportunities moved me out of my shell and into an arena of excellent friendships, challenging situations, and an understanding that I can offer the world talents that I never knew existed. (Victor Oberschall was awarded the James Francis Parker Award in October of 2011 by Up with Downs of Pinellas County. He was recognized for outstanding contributions to the lives of young people and adults who have cognitive challenges.)
JESUIT ALUMNI: TAMPA’S BIGGEST FRATERNITY The Jesuit High School Alumni Association often refers to itself as “Tampa’s biggest fraternity.” This is meant to convey the life-long bond of camaraderie that is forged on the campus. As for leadership, the school has produced 14 federal, city or county judges, more than 100 Eagle Scouts, six elected public servants, and two military generals. Over the past five years, 15 students have accepted appointments to United States service academies. Four schools in Hillsborough County have been named for Jesuit grads or their families. Despite the vast differences they all share, the same common thread that they all appreciate is their understanding of the importance for giving back to their alma mater. By Derek B. Alvarez, Class of 1989, Lawyer I frequently explain to people that I grew up when I was a student at Jesuit High School. Jesuit taught me a lot, but what Jesuit taught me the most was how to balance my time between academics, athletics and community service – Giving Back. Today, as I balance life between being a husband, father, business owner and someone who likes to spend time giving back to my community and to those in need, I reflect frequently on my time at Jesuit High School. Without question, it was four of the best years of my life. Jesuit is the place where I made my best of friends. Jesuit is the place that gave me the foundation for the things I accomplish today. The special bond that is shared between Jesuit grads is remarkable. When you learn that a colleague or business adversary or someone else with whose path you cross is a Jesuit graduate, you have an instant connection. This is very special and unique. Although I was taught from a young age the importance of helping others and the importance of giving back, Jesuit emphasized being a “man for others.” Being a man for others can mean a lot of things in different contexts, but it encompasses giving back. Having recently served on the Alumni Committee campaign for the amazing new Paul Straub Field at Hyer Family Park, having been part of a small group that started the Jesuit Bar Association (JBA) and serving as a member of the Jesuit High School Foundation, I spend a lot of my time giving back to Jesuit High School. Giving back is something that I enjoy doing, but it is also necessary and tremendously critical to the continued success of Jesuit. Giving back to Jesuit is crucial so that other young men can have the same opportunities that I was afforded. Presently, more than one in every four students at Jesuit receives some form of financial aid. This year – during the 2011-12 academic year – over $1.3 million was provided in financial aid to students. This is accomplished only by committing to give back to Jesuit so that young men now, and in the future, can have the same unique experience.
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Spotlight» Jesuit High School
A TRADITION TO REMEMBER The lasting effect of the familial relationship that exists at Jesuit High School is one that is seen and felt long after students graduate. Perhaps the best example of this can be found at the Jesuit Alumni Memorial. There, surrounding the base of St. Anthony’s Statue, lay cobblestones etched with the names and year of graduation of all the school’s alumni that have died. These bricks are installed once each year as part of the annual Alumni Memorial Mass, which is held in conjunction with the Feast of All Souls. The bricks are paid for by the school in grateful appreciation to the families of our alumni for their loved one’s successful graduation from Jesuit High School and ensure those that have gone before are never forgotten.
JESUIT’S MISSION The school’s mission statement, which hangs prominently in every class room, locker room, and in other large meeting areas, as well as in the foyer of the gymnasium, states: “Jesuit High School, in its mission as a Catholic, Jesuit, college preparatory school, labors to form men engaged in the world who are dedicated to serving God by being open to growth, intellectually competent, religious, loving, and just.” The five characteristics for ways in which Jesuit students serve God as mentioned in the mission statement reflect “the profile of a graduate at graduation.” A true worldwide network, (there are 3,730 Jesuit educational institutions throughout the world, and 58 high schools in the United States) the “grad at grad” (as it is more commonly known) is a living universal gauge by which Jesuit high schools determine the graduating senior’s ability and desire to attain those characteristics as a young adult. The “grad at grad” is constantly reinforced in all areas of school life; from the class room, in athletics and other extracurricular activities, to community service. Jesuit students understand the unique criteria to be considered successful in terms of how Jesuits deem success.
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Spotlight» Jesuit High School JESUIT ATHLETICS: A SOURCE OF PRIDE By Terry Rupp ’84, Director of Athletics. Jesuit High School Jesuit High School has set a standard for academic excellence and performing community service that is second to none. But another part in Jesuit’s culture is its tremendous athletic tradition that also continues to keep the school’s faithful beaming with pride. Used as another tool for students to build and refine their leadership qualities and team work skills, Jesuit High School has long had a dominating athletics program. However it began to make its name in 1950 when the Tigers won the state Class A (highest classification) basketball title under the direction of legendary coach Paul Straub, the first time any Catholic school won a state title. That same school year, Jesuit teams also won the city and South Florida Conference tennis championships. Since taking home its first state championship in 1950 Jesuit has not slowed down finding itself among the top teams in the state in almost every sport, and is regularly in the hunt for district, regional or state titles. In all, Jesuit has recorded 17 state championships and two national championships – with each of those coming in baseball (1997) and soccer (2001). In addition, the Jesuit athletics program has been named the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) Program of the Year five times (1998, 1999, 2001, 2006, and 2011). Jesuit’s most recent FHSAA sanctioned sport comes by way of the lacrosse field. Although the lacrosse program has enjoyed success in the past as a club sport – playing in the Independent state championship game last season – there is a tremendous buzz around campus and in the community with the move to the FHSAA and optimism about the program now being able to compete for a state title this year. It’s also no wonder that Jesuit’s athletics teams and student athletes are so successful, when they are able to train and play in some of the finest facilities around. Al Lopez Sports Complex (basketball, wrestling) – affectionately known as the Tiger Palace – Alumni Field at Corral Memorial Stadium (football, soccer, lacrosse), and Jesuit’s newest crown jewel, Paul Straub Field at Hyer Family Park (baseball) give the Tigers an almost unbeatable home court or home field advantage. In addition, Paul Straub Field at Hyer Family Park was recently named the National Field of the Year” by the National High School Baseball Coaches Association. Jesuit’s student-athletes are truly that, students first. Seven times the FHSAA has recognized one of the Tigers’ sports teams as its Outstanding Athletic Team Champion. Basketball was the first team to earn it during the 2006-07 season, and then again in 201011, followed by soccer (2006-07 and 2008-09), football (2008-09), baseball (2009-10) and this year bowling.
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Spotlight» Jesuit High School STUDENT LIFE AT JESUIT Jesuit High School is much more than expanding its students’ mind and soul, it’s also about watching its student’s blossom socially with brothers from all different walks of life. Jesuit offers many social and service activities to suit a variety of student interests. All students are encouraged to participate in extra-curricular activities that help them to discover and use their talents, and inspire social development and personal initiative. And, of course, these activities are about having fun and being creative! In addition to the numerous events that are held throughout the year, Jesuit students recently held a Costume Night at one of its basketball games against its most fierce rival. The students weren’t short on creativity, with the night proving to be one of the more memorable ones of the year. The freshmen class also took advantage of an “All Nighter” where they had the opportunity to come together as a class and forge new friendships under the banner of Jesuit High School and becoming “men for others.” Traditional high school dances are also held for Homecoming and Proms. Jesuit’s annual Prom is held at the prestigious Tampa Club, with it being the only school afforded that honor. If becoming involved in a student club is your thing, then there is no shortage of ways to get involved. Student Clubs, which are all moderated by a faculty member, offer opportunities in music, theater, athletics, student government, student publications, robotics, special interest and service groups, and forensic debate among others, so that each young man can find an activity that fits his interests and talents.
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Proud supporter and graduate of Jesuit High School
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entertainment » event calendar
sOuTh TAMpA
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 focus@dukepublications.com
MArch 1 – 4 » “Boeing Boeing”
The Straz Center presents this “high-style, kneeslapping romp through the age of glamorous, jet-setting air travel” as an architect and bachelor juggles relationships with three flight attendants -- until their airline schedules change just as a friend of his decides to pay a visit.
MArch 1 – 12 » Tampa: A Town With A Past
Florida Museum of Photographic Arts continues their photographic walk through Tampa’s history until the 12th. Visit fmopa.org for more information.
MArch 2 » Tampa Downtown Market
Be sure to stop at Tampa’s Downtown Market at Twiggs and Franklin Streets. For more information please visit tampadowntownmarket.com.
MArch 3 » High Society 1930’s Party
Historic Hyde Park Neighborhood Association’s... High Society 1930’s Party. From 7 until 10 located at 1715 Bayshore Boulevard, Tampa, Florida. This party includes: Open bar, bountiful hors d’oeuvres, live music, silent auction and hand-rolled cigars
» Harlem Globetrotters
The Harlem Globetrotters bring their mix of comedy and athleticism to the St. Pete Times Forum. This year’s outstanding rookies include Paul “Tiny” Sturgess (at 7-foot-8, the world’s tallest pro basketball player), Jonte “Too Tall” Hall (at 5-foot-2, the shortest Globetrotter ever), and Fatima “TNT” Maddox, the team’s first female player since 1993.
MArch 3-4 » Gasparilla Festival of the Arts
The Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts, one of the nation’s top-rated outdoor fine
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art shows, is now accepting applications from emerging artists interested in participating in the festival, which will return to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in downtown Tampa on March 3 - 4, 2012. The Gasparilla Festival of the Arts Emerging Artist Program will provide up-andcoming artists who are interested in pursuing a professional career in visual arts with the opportunity to showcase their work to the more than 100,000 art enthusiasts who are expected to attend. For more information, please visit www. gasparilla-arts.com
MArch 4 » Fresh Market
The Fresh Market at Hyde Park Village is operated by Tampa Bay Markets, Inc. If you are interested in becoming a vendor or would like more information about the market, please visit www. tampabaymarkets.com.
» Pets about town at MacDinton’s
MacDinton’s welcomes leashed dogs on the first Sunday of the month. Owners can enjoy drink specials such as $2.50 Blue Moon bottles.
MArch 5 » IKEA Tampa Kids’ Academy Crafts
IKEA Tampa offers a free activity today (about 20 minutes long) for children under 12. Participants receive a free IKEA Tampa Kids’ Academy T-shirt and can eat a free kids’ combo meal in the IKEA Tampa cafeteria. Additional dates include March 12-16.
MArch 6 » Tampa Preparatory School All That Glitters Gala Auction and Dinner
Tampa Preparatory School’s annual Gala Auction and Dinner takes place March 3, 2012, at A La Carte Event Pavilion. Join us to celebrate Tampa Prep’s mission to provide students a place to think, create, be themselves, aspire to excellence and go beyond. Visit www.tampaprep.org/auction for details.
» Target Tuesdays at Glazer Children’s Museum
Target Tuesdays, held during the first Tuesday of each month, are an ongoing effort to make the Museum accessible to all members of the community. Admissions during these special hours are normally at the reduced cost of $2 but is FREE for the months of January, February and March. In addition to the discounted prices, the museum has given away 500 free tickets each month for this event.
MArch 11 » Tommy Tune – “Steps in Time”
A Broadway Biography In Song And Dance Featuring The Manhattan Rhythm Kings Broadway’s legendary song and dance man Tommy Tune hits the stage high stepping through his nine time Tony Award winning career celebrating 50 years on the Great White Way. He sings, dances and laughs his way through those glorious musical moments that made him a theater legend. Call 727-892-5767 for more details.
MArch 12 » Meditation at the Tampa Museum of Art
Enjoy a regular meditation practice at the Tampa Museum of Art.
MArch 15 » Block PAWty
It’s the St. Patty’s Day-themed Block PAWty, a free pet party featuring live music, drink specials, pet photos, raffle prizes, shopping specials, pet first aid + CPR demos...and lots of doggone fun! All proceeds benefit The Humane Society of Tampa Bay. A donation of $10 is suggested at the door. The PAWty takes place in the courtyard Via Way at the Snow Circle Shops by Downtown Dogs! Flicks and Food Trucks Tampa Bay Markets, Inc. a local company that operates the open-air fresh markets in the Bay area, and the Tampa Downtown Partnership present this event showcasing local independent short films, 10 to 15 food trucks, beer and live music.
MArch 16-18 » Chalk Walk
Chalk Walk is a free, family friendly, public art display of chalk drawings on the sidewalks of Hyde Park Village. Support the local arts community with your family, friends, and furry
ones too, and celebrate art in the Village. There will be live music and entertainment, food and drink specials, games, a kid’s Chalk area with a bounce house and face painting and don’t miss the Chalk Walk Artist Gallery!
MArch 18 » Spectacular Story Time
Barnes & Noble Booksellers on N. Dale Mabry Hwy hosts a weekly story hour for the little ones.
MArch 24 » Oldsmar Day and Nights 2012
Oldsmar’s longest running festival. Held every year at the end of March in the legendary R.E. Olds Park. The event features fiery foods, collector cars, classic rock music, a great carnival, parade,dozens of vendors and warm spring sunshine. Admission and parking is free! So come out and plan to have some fun with 14,000 or so of your best friends. You don’t want to miss the Wing Wars contest on Sunday where you decide who has the best wings in the Upper Tampa Bay. Bands line up for this year include Greg Billings, The Black Honkeys, Dive Bar Stalkers, Stormbringer, Trigger City Trio and Cross Eyed Larry.
MArch 24-25 23rd Annual Hyde Park Village Art Festival This popular outdoor festival is consistently ranked among the top art shows in the country. Enjoy unique creations from award-winning artists.
MArch 31 » Bunny Hop
Kid’s Easter event with Easter Bunny, bounce house, face painting and kid’s entertainment.
entertainment » ms walk
MaSquerade for a Local family is dedicated to Cure raising funds for a cure E Story By: Christina Musial
very year, the Tampa Bay area holds a walk to raise awareness and funds for the National MS Society and participants in the walk fundraise as an extra means of support. Each year an Individual and Team are announced as Top Fundraisers. For the past four years, that spot has belonged to Ande Felder and her family. When Ande’s daughter Megan was 19 years old, she began to display symptoms of MS and was diagnosed shortly after. A few years later while her sister Jenna was away at school, Megan suffered a major exacerbation. Jenna wasn’t home to provide physical or emotional support and felt a bit useless. So, she formed a team “Megan’s Marchers” to participate in an MS Walk and pledged $5,000. This spawned their first fundraising event with a local restaurant donating a banquet room and appetizers. Between the Silent Auction and Cash Bar, they raised $6,000. Over the years, the event has grown and traveled to different venues throughout the Tampa Bay area. About five years ago, they settled on a Casino Night theme called “MaSquerade” and have seen great success. “Our group has grown to 200 to 225 people every year. Most of what we get for the event is donated. This year, we only paid for the venue and bar,” said Ande Felder. In 2012, the event was held at the Tampa Garden Club and Burger Monger donated the food. The below live auction items were donated and drew a large profit: - 2 roundtrip Spirit Airline tickets - Tampa Bay Rays Box Suite - MS Kids Camp Registration (a child who lives with a parent suffering from MS is
given the opportunity to attend camp with other children sharing this same life). - Autographed Hockey stick and jersey from the Tampa Bay Lightning’s Steven Stamkos - Jenna & Ande Felder! – they will be walking in the MS Challenge Walk in Charleston, SC and need to raise $1500 each, so they auctioned themselves off. This year’s event raised $27,000 and they couldn’t have done it alone. “We’ve been very lucky in cultivating relationships in the community,” Felder said. This year, among their sponsors were Fowler White Boggs law firm and Suncoast Schools Federal Credit Union. Through their partnerships, friendships and fundraising efforts, the Felder family has raised $127,000. They’ve raised enough that they were recognized in November 2011 at the Dallas Tour of Champions which is for people who have raised of $10,000. The Felders even presented a lecture on how to create a foundation and run an event such as MaSquerade. Although Megan is the family member diagnosed with MS and living life with the illness, the Felder family as a whole is looking and hoping for a cure. “Our whole family walks and volunteers at the event,” Felder said. If you’re interested in joining the Felder family in the Tampa MS Walk on March 24th at Lowry Park Zoo, you can visit www. midfloridamswalks.org. To read more about the Felders, their event and fundraising efforts, visit their website at www.masqueradeoftampabay.org.
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: focus@dukepublications.com FOCUS Magazine south tampa march 2012
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entertainment » dining profile photo by Michael Musial
EATS American Grill Looking For Good Eats? This is the Place written By: Michael Musial
J
ust north of Gandy on Dale Mabry you will find a nationally featured dining treat. Eats American Grill, just recently featured on Food Networks new show Heat Seekers, is a friendly, warm, and exciting dining location. I stopped in with a new eating partner to enjoy some of EATS cuisine. Walking in from the outside is a very clean well spaced dining area, surrounding a slightly off set Bar and kitchen pass through, featuring tables and a few booths lining the wall. Every wall has a TV with various sports and news programming. We were encouraged to seat ourselves and our waiter was right with us. As a complimentary pallet warm up we were brought some chips with a mayonnaise style dip. The chips were a nice start - what isn’t American about a good potato chip. Thankfully they are a Coke place, so we ordered our drinks, and set in to look at our menu. The menu features a fine collection of cherished dishes from all across our great nation. For example there’s a Philly cheesesteak (Pennsylvania), a Crab Cake dish(Maryland), and even a Waldorf Salad(New York). Many of the entree’s were suggestions of food that guests had back home, and Chris the owner/manager has
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made it a point add these to his menu. He informed us he would be expanding his menu to include some more seafood options, including fish tacos. He sees all food from this great nation as a possible award winner to put on his menu. One such award winner is his spicy Midwest BLT creation. Using his signature 5 pepper sauce, this is a BLT with heat! The sandwich can also be prepared without the spice for those looking for a “cooler” Midwest BLT experience. My dining partner, Dan, elected to get the Fried Pork Chop sandwich without the heat, and I went for the featured Midwest BLT. We both ordered fries with melted cheese for our side. We then sat back and enjoyed the chips, TV’s, and the relaxed atmosphere, and before we knew it, our food had arrived. Dan’s sandwich looked great, but my BLT stole the show. Normally I find BLT’s to be lacking in the bacon department, almost as if the chef forgot there was supposed to be a meat on this sandwich and instead decided to “bacon bit” some lettuce, tomato, and bread. This is not the case with the Midwest BLT, the bacon was packed in. Finally, a BLT with some meat! To top it all off, perhaps as a warning, there was a large jalapeño cut in down the middle and skewered on top of each half of my sandwich.
Now for the record I like spicy and hot food, but I don’t like food that is hot just for hot sake. You know the food that feels more college dare than kitchen fare, well the Midwest BLT is kitchen fare at its finest. The heat is there, and it’s not going to let you forget about it, but it provides each mouth savoring bite a bit of kick to what is often a very pedestrian sandwich. Dan made quick work of the Fried Pork Chop sandwich and I worked my way through half of the BLT before I had to call it quits, not from the heat but just from how filling it was and I knew I was going to have to try some of Chris’ new dessert. It was worth saving room for desert. A Neapolitan Dessert Cheese Cake, I am not sure what was in each layer, but it was excellent. As Dante had trouble describing all the wonderful and amazing levels of heaven, I would have to be far more poetic to
information 4502 South Dale Mabry Highway Tampa, FL 33611 813-835-3287 www.eatsamericangrill.com describe the layers of this spectacular desert. Chris informed us it was a new edition and that we were one of the first to try it. It is an inspired effort and I challenge every reader to try it and prove to me it’s not one of if not the best cheesecakes you ever have had. So if you find yourself on Dale Mabry near Gandy, you should do yourself a favor and visit Tampa’s Finest anachronistic dining establishment. Try the Cheesecake, and if you like the heat, grab some of that 5 pepper sauce, but don’t get mad at me if you get burned!
photo by Michael Musial
entertainment » Wine!
A complex evening with Las Rocas Bringing you the key to Garnacha an excellent evening B Story By: Jodi Lokay
reaking out of my winter hibernation, I decided to have a few friends over for a small dinner party featuring Tapas and Spanish Wine. The problem was I didn’t feel like cooking. Before arriving, I warned my fiends it would be a mandatory participation event. I never said I was a great Hostess. Before my friends arrived I opened a few bottles of 2008 Las Rocas Garnacha and poured them into my decanter to aerate. Immediately I noted the deep purple and red colored wine splash into the decanter. The Las Rocas Garnacha is made in Las Bodegas San Alejandro. Founded in 1962 when local farmers established a co-operative and today they utilize over 3,000 acres of this wine making region to support them and culture. 350 farmers of the 530 total populations in Miedes, Spain cultivate their grapes to supply Las Rocas Garnacha. The bodega is located in Miedes, Spain which is in the autonomous region of Aragon in Northeastern Spain. Coupling with American and French enthusiasts, Las Rocas has a wide variety range of wines and over the past few years has exponentially appealed to the American market. Las Rocas’ philosophy is all about the varietal expression of the grape: Garnacha or Grenache. This grape is very present in the northern regions of Spain. As it is very similar to varietal grapes in Rhone, France it shares some of the same complexities. The Grenache is known to be low in flavor and high in alcohol, therefore it is commonly used in blends. Las Roca’s uses lightly toasted oak in order to bring the hint of spice in the wine without masking the original flavor of the grape. This is one of the few wines that truly dedicate its flavor to the Garnacha flavor without compromising it. Once my guests arrived, I debriefed them
about the menu and passed them the tapas torch. I made sure everyone had a full glass of wine before lifting a finger. On deck: Patatas Bravas and Gambas a la Plancha. Patatas Bravas
• • • • • • • • • • • •
3 tablespoons of olive oil 4 large Russet potatoes, peeled, and cut to 1-inch cubes 2 tablespoons minced onion 2 cloves garlic, minced Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 1/2 tablespoons Spanish paprika 1/4 teaspoon Tabasco Sauce 1/4 teaspoon ground thyme 1/2 cup (4 fl. oz) Ketchup 1/2 cup (4 fl. oz) mayonnaise Chopped parsley, to garnish 1 cup (8 fl. oz) olive oil, for frying
The Brava Sauce Preparation In a saucepan, heat 3 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is soft. Turn off the heat, and add the paprika, Tabasco sauce, and thyme, stirring well. Transfer to a bowl and add the ketchup and mayonnaise. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside. The Potatoes Preparation Sprinkle the potatoes lightly with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet fry the potatoes in 1 cup (8 fl. oz) olive oil until cooked through and golden-brown, stirring occasionally. (Take care when adding the potatoes to the saucepan because the oil will splatter due to the salt). Drain the potatoes on paper towels, check the seasoning, add more salt if necessary, and set it aside. Hint! Mix the potatoes with the sauce immediately before serving to ensure that the potatoes retain their crispness. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm. Gambas a la Plancha • 1/2 cup olive oil • Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 teaspoons sea salt • 24 medium-large shrimp (about 1 pound) in the shell with heads intact Preparation In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and salt until well blended. Dip the shrimp briefly into the mixture to coat lightly. Heat a dry skillet over high heat. When the pan is very hot, working in batches, add the shrimp in a single layer without crowding. Sear for 1 minute. Decrease the heat to medium and continue cooking for 1 minute longer. Turn the shrimp, increase the heat to high, and sear for 2 more minutes, or until golden. Keep the shrimp warm on an ovenproof platter in a low oven. Cook the rest of the shrimp in the same way. When all the shrimps are cooked, arrange on a platter and serve immediately. Finally sitting down with my guests, we passed the prawns and potatoes around the table and began to enjoy our wine. While bold to the nose, the deep ruby colored liquid definitely enticed us to judge our food pairing. Hopefully we would find a match. When I let my nose peer over the edge of the
glass, I could pick up the radiant aromas of raspberries, peppers and licorice. Other guests commented about the tobacco, strawberry and black cherry scents. Upon taste, the 2008 Las Rocas Garancha had a medium to full body with great subtle textures. The Garancha grape left a long and spicy after taste which leads you wanting another taste. The medium yet rough tannins made the taste absolutely lively with acidity. Although finishing a little bitter, Las Rocas, was still very well balanced and had the complexity to leave a long lingering complex finish. The 2008 Las Rocas Garancha had very defined tasting notes that were distinctly smoky, dusty, earthy and were able to perfectly balance with fruity perfumes leading to an savory wine. Of course, this wine was excellent in value. Picking it up for only $12 at a local wine store. All in all great evening and Recipes thanks to: http://www.spain-recipes.com
FOCUS Magazine south tampa march 2012
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