www.FredsSouthernKitchen.com 2
Eat Better. Love Life. Live Longer.
february 2011 myfocustv.com
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table of contents
february 2011 volume 3 issue 9
702 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563 Phone 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990 PUBLISHER Mike Floyd
FAMILY OF COMMUNITY MAGAZINES
OFFICE MANAGER Dede Floyd COPY EDITOR Cheryl Johnston ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Brent Simmons SALES Sophia Hyde Holly Far mer Linda Simmons PRODUCTION Anthony Sassano Tony Cartagena DISTRIBUTION Doug McGee Belva DeVane
ONTHECOVER larry and Janey poWell
PHOTOGRAPHERS Suzanne Gallagher Billy Friend Lori Blaser
photo by brent simmons
8 FOCUS
Plant City Lakeland Brandon Winter Haven Lake County South Tampa
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LOCaL
Winter Haven and the surrounding areas are such great communities where the residents 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 Winter Haven an amazing place to live.
FeatUre
Larry and Janey Powell work tirelessly to help others. Their newest project is Angels Care Center of Eloise, a free medical clinic opening this month to to serve those in need. The Powells demonstrate that the golden years are best lived as the giving years.
FOCUSTV
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OWN YOUR OWN FOCUS MAGAZINE
Licensed territories are available. If you are interested in owning your own Focus Magazine call Mike Floyd at 813-707-8783 ext. 26
CONTRIBUTORS Al Ruechel Bruce Rodwell Gil Gott Jo-An Lusk Nate Davis Natalie Sweet Felix Haynes EDITORIAL INTERNS Raven Leverett
SPOtLight
Focus Magazine has a challenge for you. After you read this interview with two pastors who serve at The Mission, check it out personally by offering to volunteer for a few hours. We promise, it will change your perspective about the homeless and people in need.
MYFOCUSTV.COM Local Community Stories
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STAFF WRITERS Cheryl Johnston Brian West Joe Bowles Phil Neary Derek Maul Kristi Linbaugh Dan Conrod Jane Waters Joy Townsend Mark Page
STANDARDS OF ACCURACY The goal of the writers at FOCUS Magazine is to provide heart-warming stories that are accurate from the start. Being human, however, we sometimes make mistakes. Please forgive us. So if you notice anything that is incorrect, then please do not hesitate to contact the editorial department and inform it about the fact error. To do so, call (813) 707-8783 or e-mail editorial@ fl oydpublications.com. The staff will fi x the error in a timely manner.
BUSineSS PrOFiLe
For those special gifts and uniquely creative floral arrangements, make The Wild Hare Florist and Gift Shop your family’s go-to source. Heather Coscia, owner, works alongside friends and family to design creations that “wow” the recipients. Bookmark this one for sure.
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 businesses, restaurants and many local venues. Letters, questions and comments can be sent to us at editorial@fl oydpublications.com.
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Dining PrOFiLe
With 30 flavors of wings and the Focus Readers’ Choice Award for the Best Hamburger in Winter Haven, it’s no wonder Hurricane Grill & Wings is a busy local favorite. For tasty food, great service, and a Cheers sports bar atmosphere, families and friends gather often. Invite yours this week!
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:
17 - Medical 22 - Main Street winter haven
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27 - City of winter haven 28 - al reuchel
30 - event Calendar
floyd publications, Inc.
702 West Dr. Martin Luther King jr. Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563 Phone 813.707.8783 • Fax 813.764.0990
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FOCUS Magazine winter haven february 2011
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I
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 nat 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 kart. 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 spotlight interview this month is Pastor Tom Beauregard and Pastor David Berry. Pastor Tom is the founder of The Mission, an organization that does a tremendous amount of work helping those in need in our community. When you read Pastor Tom’s story you will learn that he started off in seminary school, dropped out and formed a drug addiction. Later on in life he turned things around focused his life back on God again. Then, he saw a need in lives around him and started meeting them. How many of us look at the world around us, see a need, and stay on the sidelines? A new adventure doesn’t always have to be an adrenaline rush or a one-day experience. Pastor Tom is a wonderful example of someone who stepped out of his comfort zone and took on something new. Read this incredible story about how many lives are regularly touched by the mission.
Mike Floyd Publisher
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february 2011 myfocustv.com
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local » focus Thomas’ staff took a lead role in putting on the event, but volunteers showed up before 6:00AM to get things ready. The cold weather didn’t seem to put a damper on the enthusiasm of either the volunteers or the participants. The Marine ROTC from Ridge High School was on hand to present the colors and we found them after the opening ceremonies, milling about and smartly dressed, along the course route shouting encouragement to the runners. All the participants gave positive feedback on the course and the event’s location. A few
citrus classic run W Written by: brent simmons
hen most of us think of the Winter Haven Hospital, we think of sick folks being treated for serious aliments, injuries, and diseases. However, the Winter Haven Hospital, and its supporters at the Hospital Foundations are also concerned about wellness. On Saturday, January 22, 2011, over 60 volunteers and 300 participants gathered at the Lake Marion Sports Complex in Auburndale to celebrate health and wellness by putting on and participating in the Citrus Classic Run. Folks from all over Central Florida braved the cool, windy morning to take part in races of varying lengths. They ranged in age from small children (the tot trot) to folks well into their eighth decade. Medals were awarded to
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the top three finishers, grouped together by age and distance run. From what we heard and witnessed, everybody was a winner. It is an event that for over 30 years has celebrated the effort of all, as well as the ability. Some walked. Some ran. Some wore expensive running shoes, while as one young man of 10 told us, he ran in the same shoes he wore to school everyday. Why does the hospital and its staff put on the event? “We want to focus on healthy living and this event showcases exercise, which is a key element of our community’s wellness,” said Joel Thomas, VP of Marketing and Public Relations for the Hospital. “It is also a great way to gain exposure for the important work the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation does,” Thomas added.
years ago the event was moved to the Sports Complex. Thomas explained, “We moved it here because the facility is just incredible. It represents our community’s commitment to health and sports, and quite frankly, the City of Auburndale is a great partner.” The Winter Haven Hospital, and the Hospital’s Foundation is vital to our community, but not just when we’re sick. Their goal is a happier, healthier community and this annual event is a celebration of that.
a
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 winter haven february 2011
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Local » Focus
Home team takes first place O n Saturday, January 7th, 14 teams from central Florida joined 15,000 teams worldwide to participate in the First Lego League Challenge at Ridge Middle School in Dundee. The competition is the brainchild of Dean Kamen, famed inventor and entrepreneur, and Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen, owner and vice-chairman of the Lego Group. Since 1998, the competition has challenged teams of 9 to 12-year-olds to solve real world problems using science, technology, and teamwork. The goals are to get kids interested in science and engineering, teach and reinforce a set of core values, and let them have fun.
The competition is made up of two parts. First, the teams are given a problem, for which they research and develop a solution. Then they must develop a creative way to present their results. At the same time they are given the building blocks (Legos) from which they must build and program a robot that will perform a series of tasks. Teams are judged and earn points their research, their solutions, their teamwork, their robots, and their adherence to the competitions core values. Stacey Gideons, principal of Ridge Middle School, jumped at the chance to show off
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her school and volunteered it to host the competition. “This is a fantastic way to provide hands-on learning for our students. It is a way to add something to the learning experience, and our staff and students are excited to show off our school,” Gideons said. Mark Schweim, a teacher himself, volunteered as the competitions director and master of ceremonies. “Getting students interested in science and engineering is a personal passion of mine. This is our fourth year, and this year the challenge is biomedical engineering. The teams had to pick a part of the body and develop solutions that either improve or heal it,” Schweim told us. The result of his passion was evidenced in the number of participants at the competition attending that he worked with at USF Polytech’s Science and Engineering summer camp. Ridge Middle School’s own team, made up of Michael Wilcox, Bryan Roecker, Steven Parris, and Brandon Burchett, took home top honors for the performance of their robot. This team only had two weeks together to do the research and build, program, and test their robot. When asked what they had learned, the replied, “Teamwork, people skills, and a respect for other peoples’ ideas.”
Written By: Brent Simmons
Wilcox added, “When we ran into a problem one of us would step up and lead the rest of us through it. We couldn’t have done it without the whole team.”
other teams. They all wanted each other to be successful, but you’d expect that from a competition that has the motto, “What you learn is more important than what you win.”
The core values of the First Lego League are as important as the competition; in fact, one thing we saw was each team cheering for the
To learn more about the Lego League checkout www.firstlegoleague.org
FOCUS Magazine winter haven february 2011
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larry powell in
Love Action
W
e are so lucky, so blessed. Our job requires us to get out and meet people who are so wonderful, so giving, so loving, and who are making a difference in our community. It is easy for us at Focus Magazine to be positive because we get to do this everyday. Recently we met a man and his lovely wife who fit the bill perfectly. After meeting them, their friends, and some of the people they have touched and listening to their plans, I was left reminded of the verse from the Bible that I will paraphrase here, “No greater love has any man, than he lay down his life or dedicate his life in service of another.” This describes these two remarkable people, and even though we normally don’t feature individuals, we thought since our focus in this issue is love, it was entirely proper to feature Larry Powell, his work to benefit others, the love of his life Janey and their new project, the Angels Care Center of Eloise.
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Larry was raised in Lakeland and Janey was raised in Davenport. They were married 39 years ago, and decided to split the difference by moving to Winter Haven four years later. Janey, a retired teacher has worked at local elementary schools, while Larry has worked in various capacities with non-profit organizations like the Boys and Girls Club and most recently as a senior program specialist with the Alzheimer Association of Polk County. They are both fixtures in the community supporting civic organizations and their church. We attended a great party given by his friends to celebrate both his retirement from the Alzheimer Association and the “redirection of his energy to the Angel Care Center.” The event was held at the Arts Ensemble Education Facility in Eloise, which housed Larry’s former office at the Alzheimer Association. Larry and his co-workers at the Association had teamed with Jane Waters Thomas to create a program where Alzheimer’s patients used art as a therapy. We spoke to several volunteer counselors from the association who described Larry as, “dynamic, dedicated, caring, and a man of
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continued from page 12 strength and great faith.” “He cared about the caregivers and those of us that were
in the trenches. He knew from his own experience what a toll this disease took on caregivers and those of us that worked with them,” said Duane Wallace. Larry’s sincerity and passion for the community allows him access to resources, and he doesn’t mind asking for help. Even though fundraising was not part of his official job description, Larry reportedly took on any and all tasks that needed to get done. When asked how he had been so successful asking others to donate to the association or other projects he worked with, he said, “I’m brief,” but we know it is more than that. Everybody knows where Larry’s heart is. Just spend a few minutes with him and his humble nature and passion for helping others becomes crystal clear.
Not long ago Larry and Janey felt God was calling them to do something different. Separately they felt the need to open a faith-based, free medical clinic to serve the poor of our community. St. Mark’s had just taken over the operation of a building in Eloise and Larry and Janey, neither of whom has any medical training or experience, set our to make God’s call to action a reality. The building has been remodeled and this team put their love in action. Now they have an experienced Gessler Clinic surgeon, Dr. Rick Honer, as the Angels Care Center’s medical director, and Mary Hulverson Weppelman, a former supervisor of EMTs for Polk County has stepped in as the clinic director. Our community has so many folks in the medical fields that go on missions to poorer countries and provide needed medical services to those without, that it no surprise more than 20 doctors signed up to provide these same needed services in our own backyard. “I hear from at least two nurses or doctors each week that have learned what Larry and Rick are doing, and they want to volunteer,” said Andy Horner, Rick’s wife. Larry and his team have raised the money required to refurbish the building from private sources and have developed a network of 15 churches that support the center. “God’s people taking care of God’s people is our motto,” Larry told us. The clinic is scheduled to open January 30, 2011. “We don’t want it to be just a medical clinic, but a resource for those in need,” Larry said, and when Larry and Janey put their love in action you can be confident they will make it happen. A larger question is why? Why would these two give up what others call their golden years. Larry is 65, and although Janey is much younger, she is still retired. So why would they take on something like this after working hard all their lives? I’ll tell you what I think the answer is – Love - Love of God, and Love for his creation. After meeting these two, I am reminded of all the times God has called people, ordinary people to do extraordinary things. I am humbled, as were many of those at the retirement party, by the life and accomplishments of this man, but Larry isn’t puffed up or proud. He represents what is best of us, a servant leader with a humble heart, and a giving spirit. Meeting folks like Larry and Janey is the highpoint of what I get to do, and if you’re missing that in your life, if your not inspired by the great number of folks like Larry in our community – then put your love in action and get involved. Find ways to be around people who are up to something. Do something this month that makes a difference, and I’ll bet you’ll find inspiration. Larry and Janey, I’m going to steal a line from Bruce Springsteen’s tribute song to the first responders on 9/11 as my prayer for you: “May your strength give us strength, may your hope give us hope, may your faith give us faith, may your love give us love.” Thank you for hearing the call and putting your love in action.
the mission: Love Making a Difference
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By Brent SImmonS
O
ur Focus this month is on Love because February is the month of love. There is the commercial side of Valentine’s Day, the single biggest day for the sale of roses, and we want to celebrate that and encourage everyone to remember your sweethearts with gifts and kind deeds. However, there is another kind of love, a love that makes a difference in our community, not just on Valentine’s Day, but everyday. In East Polk County we are blessed to meet people who express this kind of love as part of their occupation: ministers, doctors, volunteers, and leaders. There will be a lot said about the first kind of love over the days and weeks leading up to Valentine’s Day, but we wanted to Focus on the second kind of Love, because not a lot will be said about it during that time. This is a love affair with a community and the people in it, a love affair with some of our neighbors who are most in need. We met Pastor David Berry recently at a presentation of a $3,000 check representing funds raised at the First Annual Fall Fancy (Focus Magazine, January). We sat down with Pastor David Berry and Pastor Tom Beauregard at The Mission in Downtown Winter Haven to learn about God’s Love Making a Difference.
Focus: Pastor Tom, you founded The Mission, how did you come to this ministry? I was raised Catholic and had always felt the calling to be a priest, but I left seminary without being ordained. I joined the Navy and after that I drifted away from God and found myself deep in sin. Drugs ruled my life and I couldn’t see God. I moved to Winter Haven and my neighbor was persistent in inviting me to church, so – to shut her up – I consented. I went to three or four services before I was touched by God and was saved. Then one day I heard God ask me if I loved him – three times he asked just like he did Peter, and after the third time he said, “Feed my People.” So, in 1973 I began helping those who lived near me, and from there it has grown to what it is today.
Focus: David, how did you become involved? I came to Winter Haven to function as a youth minister after doing prison ministry for 8 years. I kept driving by The Mission and one day decided to stop. I started volunteering, serving salad, and after a while I felt like I should be more involved. I had a conversation with my senior pastor and he agreed that my calling was to do missionary work, so I gave up my job – stepped out on faith and joined Tom at The Mission full time six years ago.
Focus: What is the purpose of The Mission? Jesus would sit on a rock or under a tree and talk to people. He shared the good news of the gospel with them. We want to be the tree where people can gather, have their physical needs met, but more importantly, hear the good news. We believe that without a relationship with Christ people will continue to only exist, survive and never really live.
Focus: What is your relationship with local churches? We get no funding from government sources. Most of our funding is from private donations, but we do get some support from some local churches. We feel it is our mission to reach out to folks in need, minister to their needs and preach the gospel, but then it is important to get the new believer plugged into a local church. We refer them to local churches that have an emphasis on ministering to people in their situation. If we are helping a single mother, then we want to get her to a church with that kind of ministry. We are called to grow the kingdom of Christ and help the local churches grow, as well.
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Focus: A lot of folks think of organizations like yours and they think of homeless people. What is important for the community to understand about your ministry? We help thousands of people a month and feed hundreds everyday, but only 25% of these people are homeless. Most are families in need, and most are working but just can’t make ends meet. We would love to help the community see the homeless as we see them, and we want them to know that we don’t just hand out food, but we tell folks the truth, in love. If we are working with a homeless man, we are working to get him a job – we are straight with him. We’ll tell him the reason you can’t get a job is because you look like a crack addict, get cleaned up. We will help, but we understand why local businesses don’t want them hanging around and we explain that to them in a very straightforward way. If they’re looking for work and can’t find it, we give them a broom to sweep the street or our neighboring businesses’ parking lots. We know that if folks see them being productive, they see them showing up everyday, being responsible, then there are those business people who will give them a chance.
Focus: What is the most rewarding things about what you do? Pastor Tom: Seeing something taken from the trash heap of life and transformed into a new life, a productive life, a life in a relationship with Jesus. Pastor David: I get to be real honest and straight. I can be real with the people we help. Sometimes in ministry you have to worry about what you say because the people you’re dealing with are important to your ministry, but here I can tell like it is.
Focus: The Mission isn’t what I think about when I think about feeding the homeless. How do you see what you do as different? First and most importantly, we are a Christ-Centered organization. We have a great board of directors that helps us oversee our work and keeps us focused on this. Second. we aren’t a soup kitchen. Our facility is created to look like a home. We want to treat those we help with dignity and making them feel like home is one way we do it. Third, we understand the community’s concerns about the problem of homelessness and the negative impact it can have on a community and local businesses. We want the community to see these people like we do, but we want those we help to understand the community’s concerns and to act in a way that lessens the impact. We want them to be responsible for the way they are perceived.
Focus: What do you want from the community? What do you need? We could always use more money and volunteers, but that isn’t what we want most. We want relationships with churches, business leaders, and the local governments. We want to know what they think and what they need. It all starts with relationships and from that we believe we will see more volunteers and more donations as a natural outcome of these deepening relationships. We seek a closer relationship to God and believe he wants us to have closer relationships with each other. We believe that by forming these bonds, these relationships, our community can become a model for other communities in dealing with the problems they all face regarding the homeless and those in need. We believe that God is glorified when love is in action. Love in Action Challenge – After this interview the writer will be volunteering at The Mission. It would be great if every pastor of every church in our community would volunteer a couple of hours there, at least one time, as well. This would be a great start to building the relationships that Pastor David and Pastor Tom desire and fulfill the Bible’s command to feed the hungry and care for the poor. FOCUS Magazine winter haven february 2011
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february 2011 myfocustv.com
BIG
BASS
Bash
A benefit for the Winter Haven Hospital Regency Center for Women & Infants Presented by:
Saturday, February 26, 2011 Lake Shipp Park, Winter Haven
Tournament starts at safe daylight with weigh-in at 1:00pm
First Place - $2,500
Second Place - $1,000 | Third Place - $500 Tournament award ceremony starts at 1:30pm followed by a huge raffle. Entertainment starts at 11:00 am and goes until 2:00 pm. Come early! Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy an afternoon by the lake! • Live music • Great barbecue provided by • FREE admission to the public Smokin’ Jim’s House of BBQ • Fun for the whole family • Kid’s Casting Contest • Stop by and visit the many outdoor boating & fishing equipment vendors
For sponsorship or vendor information contact the Winter Haven Hospital Foundation at 863-292-4138.
Since inception the Big Bass Bash has raised over $30,000 for the mothers and infants served by Winter Haven Hospital’s Regency Center for Woman & Infants Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Join us again this year and help us raise more funds for our tiniest of patients.
Register in advance for the tournament at:
863-956-4990 380 S. Lake Shore Way • Lake Alfred, FL 33850
OKIN' JIM 'S
SM
Sponsored by:
House of Bar-B-Q
FOCUS Magazine winter haven february 2011
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february 2011 myfocustv.com
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FOCUS Magazine winter haven february 2011
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T H E M O S T A D V A N C E D H E A LT H C A R E I S B A S E D O N T R U S T.
Nationally recognized heart care is right here.
That’s the Bostick advantage.
Winter Haven Hospital’s Bostick Heart Center is recognized by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons as being in the top 10 percent of Heart Programs in the United States, and ranked one of the nation’s Top 50 Heart Centers by a leading consumer advocacy magazine. We give our heart patients every possible advantage by combining the best clinical experts with the latest technologies and the most effective rehab services available. And it’s all backed by the hospital you trust, Winter Haven Hospital. Learn more at www.winterhavenhospital.org or call 863-292-4688.
Compassion. Innovation. Trust. We’re your family’s choice. AN AFFILIATE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA COLLEGE OF MEDICINE AND SHANDS HEALTHCARE
FIND A BOARD CERTIFIED DOCTOR CLOSE TO HOME: Call the Winter Haven Hospital Physician Referral Line. 800-416-6705.
business » business profile
The Wild Hare T he week before Mother’s Day in 2009, Heather Coscia – a native of Winter Haven – along with friends, and family moved into their new location at 200 1st South. The Old Home had been a flower shop for decades starting in the 80’s with Jean and Reba’s Flower Shoppe. Heather and her mother, Aleta Burgett, had been running a floral and gift shop in Auburndale, but jumped at the chance to move to the location in Winter Haven.
Since that Mother’s Day in 2009, The Wild Hare has become one of Winter Haven’s premier flower and gift shops. It has taken a lot of hard work, and still does. Changing the displays and look of the shop every season is no small task, but Heather and her co-workers are a perfect example of the old adage, “Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.” This business wasn’t always in Heather’s plan. Heather worked at Publix while in high school and someone noticed her talent for creatively setting up displays in the storefront. Next she got the chance to work in the flower department. As she puts it, “I washed buckets and cut flowers.” She was given the opportunity to began to work with the flowers, and soon she was called
Florist and Gift Shop
The Wild Hare Florist and Gift Shop
Written By: Brent Simmons
on to help open the flower department at a new Publix, and that eventually led her to Juanita’s store on Dundee Road. Juanita Abercrombie taught her the old fashioned way of doing business. She learned how to treat each type of flower the way that made them last longer, and the technical side of building a great arrangement. She also learned the value of great customer service and the importance of satisfying each and every customer.
creative and while they can and will sell you a dozen roses or a Teleflora arrangement, what they really want to give you is a unique floral arrangement that has as they say, “a wow factor.” Heather explained, “We want someone who gets an arrangement from us to say, “wow!” when they see it.” This Valentine’s Day and on any occasion, stop by and visit Heather and the team at
200 1st Street South Winter Haven, FL 33880 813.307.1161 www.wildhareflowers.com The Wild Hare for flowers and gifts that will get your loved one to say WOW. You’re sure to see the difference it makes when a person follows their heart and has the courage to do what they love.
Heather attended college and earned a degree in English Education, but one year of teaching was enough to convince her it wasn’t for her. So instead of staying in a job that she didn’t like, even though she was heavily invested in it, she returned to what she loved, and through tough times and the struggles all entrepreneurs face, she hasn’t regretted her decision. As Heather will quickly tell you, it isn’t all about her. She’s had the constant support of her mother and partner, Aleta Burgett, and they’ve been joined by florist Shelly Braswell, former owner of the golden Petal and Colena Brewer former Lightner’s employee. Together this seasoned team has over 55 years experience. They also share a vision of what they do. They are modern and FOCUS Magazine winter haven february 2011
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Main Street Winter Haven www.mainstreetwh.com
n w o t n w o D r You
focus on doWntoWn Quality of life What factors determine the Quality of Life in a community? Availability of goods and services, esthetic beauty, healthy activities for Karen Thompson, diverse interests Director Mainstreet and ages, and Winter Haven the education and outlook of the population are some of the key factors that come to mind. There are numerous entities dedicated to enhancing Quality of Life in Winter Haven, including non-profit organizations like Main Street, as well as the City itself along with our elected officials. Now, what about you? Did you know that you are the key to unlocking a higher Quality of Life in this community? It does not require all of your time and money. It only takes a little focus to understand that goods and services will only be available when there is a market for them. If you like having charming, locally-owned restaurants and a high end organic-focused outdoor market, you need to support them or they will go away. Every week you can find special events in our community for every taste and budget. Our own Winter Haven Library has numerous programs for children and adults. And speaking of the library, here is an important note: IT’S FREE. A college degree is not the only path to being an educated member of society. The entire inventory of the Polk County Library Cooperative is at your disposal. This year will bring us so many opportunities. Let us embrace them with open arms and ensure that the Quality of Life in Winter Haven continues to develop and, indeed, blossom.
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Welcome to The Official Newsletter of Main Street Winter Haven
february 2011 myfocustv.com
OTT LAUGHLIN FUNERAL HOME CELEBRATING 76 YEARS OF SERVICE
“We’ll be there when you need us.”
PRE-NEED COUNSELING AND FINANCING LOCAL OR DISTANT BURIAL ARRANGEMENTS CONSULTATION WITHOUT OBLIGATION EDDIE G. ALLEN, MANAGER 645 WEST CENTRAL AVENUE WINTER HAVEN (863) 293-2133
AT GLEN ABBEY 2198 K WILLE AVENUE AUBURNDALE (863) 967-8558
2010 FOCUS
Thanks for voting for us Best Breakfast & Best Cuban Congratulations Donna - Best Server
WWW.DIGNITYMEMORIAL.COM
329 west central avenue winter haven, florida 33880 863.297.5898
DOLCE vintage modern bottega
tues & wed 10am - 4pm thurs & fri 10am - 7pm sat 10am - 2pm
Elmo & Linda's Magical Dinning
Dining Hours: Monday - Saturday 11am - 3pm Old Town Square 353 3rd Street NW Winter Haven, FL 33881
Reservations Accepted 863-514-5382 molinda1983@aol.com FOCUS Magazine winter haven february 2011
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february 2011 myfocustv.com
Thank you, Winter Haven, ven, for your Reader’s Choice Award. We are proud to serve you!
2009 2010 FOCUS
NOMINATED FOR:
Best Salad
1100 3rd Street S.W. · Winter Haven, FL · 863-293-0069 www.SundownRestaurant.com FOCUS Magazine winter haven february 2011
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extra » auto review
Solid, Stable and Roomy I n 2010, the Chevrolet Traverse was a Consumers Digest “Best Buy.” It was selected in the full-size crossover SUV category with 3 foreign models as the only competition: Toyota Highlander, Mazda CX-9, and HyundaiVeracruz. Three trim levels are available: LS, LT and LTZ. Like other SUVs, the choice of captain’s chairs has a big impact to the functionality of the vehicle, and every time, the expense seems to be a seat, which is no different with the Traverse. Just don’t expect to be seating 6-footers in the rear – at least comfortably. Seat everyone tallest to shortest, from front to back and you should be fine.
Under the hood, the Traverse has a 3.6-liter V-6 with 281-horsepower. Couple this with
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february 2011 myfocustv.com
a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control and you have all the power you need in an SUV. If you bump up to the LTZ trim, you get a little more horsepower, 288-horsepower to be exact. One of the interesting options with the trim levels on the Traverse is that all levels give the buyer the option of front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. The Traverse delivers 16-17 mpg in the city and 23-24 mpg on the highway. And with gas prices on the rise again – predicted to hit $4/gallon by summer 2011 – ouch, mileage is important. On the exterior, the Traverse didn’t see much change for 2011. Although Chevrolet calls the Traverse a midsize SUV, its 205 inches of overall length make it slightly longer than the Chevrolet Tahoe. But the long
2011 Traverse Delivers review By: Brian West
wheelbase and wide wheel set provide for a smooth and stable ride. It feels really solid. Something unique to the Traverse in its class is 7.2 inches of ground clearance. Talk about not having to worry too much about what you drive over. The body has soft, rounded edges, unlike some of the competition, which may explain the popularity of the Traverse. It keeps the same sleek styling with 17, 18 or 20 inch wheels, depending on the trim level. On the interior, Traverse is equipped with satellite radio, MP3/CD player with an auxiliary audio jack and the 2LT trim package includes a 10-speaker Bose stereo system, and a rearview camera. I haven’t found a Bose system yet I didn’t like, and the rearview cameras are becoming more and more popular. The interior is roomy when
the seats are folded down – more than 117 cubic feet of cargo space. Minivans have power side doors, but the Traverse has a power rear liftgate, which is very convenient when your arms are full with groceries or little ones. Driving the Traverse was fun. It’s very stable and responsive. The transmission is smooth through all six gears. One nice feature I can speak to is the size of the fuel tank. The 22-gallon capacity is well suited for long drives before fill up, which is great for family road trips. If you’re interested in a Traverse, stop by Stingray Chevrolet. Tell them you read the review in Focus Magazine.
extra » city of winter haven high school for black teen-agers in Winter Haven. A 1943 graduate of the city’s new Jewett High School, Geathers grew up doing odd jobs for local well-to-do white families. His duties included washing cars and yard work. During summers, Geathers said he worked construction where foremen would usually not allow black workers to drink water until white workers had their fill first. “I had a work ethic to do anything I could find,” he said. “As a boy, my mother would send me to the dime store downtown – McCrory’s. As long as whites were in line, the clerk would not wait on me. I had to stand there until a kind white woman might say, ‘Wait on this boy, he’s been waiting a long time’.” It was experiences like these that influenced Geathers as he later became involved in race relations. “I always had some serious questions about the way things were. There was no respect for blacks, especially black men. German prisoners held in downtown Winter Haven received more respect. They called us ‘boy’.”
Pughsville residents gather around the Historic Pughsville Neighborhood marker, which was dedicated near Post Avenue and Third Street SE in Winter Haven.
Pondering Winter Haven’s Black History F Written By: Joy Townsend
ebruary is Black History Month, and Winter Haven is celebrating its centennial; it’s appropriate to discuss the history of the black community in Winter Haven. According to Josephine Burr’s “History of Winter Haven, Florida,” the first blacks in Winter Haven settled in the downtown area, along Central Avenue. Lemuel Geathers and his family have a long history in Winter Haven. Geathers was Winter Haven’s first black mayor, serving on the City Commission from 1975-80; some may also remember Geathers as an administrator at Winter Haven High School. Geathers’ grandfather came to the area in the 1880s, settling in the downtown area. Geathers’ mother was born in 1900 at home on Lake Howard. Not long after that,
blacks who lived in the downtown area were forced to move to the Pughsville area, in the city’s southwest area around Avenue O and U.S. 17 South, Geathers said. Listen to Geathers and other black senior citizens from Winter Haven as they ponder the history of the city’s black community, 6 to 8 p.m., Feb. 15, at the Winter Haven Recreational and Cultural Center, 801 Ave. T NE. attendance is free.
For Geathers, life in Winter Haven is very different in 2011 than it was in the years following his 1924 birth. Although he lived in Pughsville, there were poor white people living on the other side of the railroad tracks, Geathers, now 87, remembers. “We had to live with segregation laws as they were, but my mother and father never let us feel
inferior to anybody. We got along good with white families who lived near us.” While black and white children would shoot marbles and play other games together in the neighborhood, it was different when they went out in public. “In public you spoke, but you didn’t mix and mingle,” Geathers said. That was also true when it came to education and worship. “We didn’t go to school together. We didn’t go to church together,” he said. “We didn’t even really work together. In the 1930s, they didn’t even let blacks work in the citrus canning plants.” In the Geathers family, education took priority. During segregation, even though schools weren’t equitable, all the older Geathers children attended high school in Lakeland or Bartow because there was no
Race relations can still be improved, but change began to occur after World War II, said Geathers, who served in the Navy and went to college on the GI Bill, graduating from Florida A&M in 1954. While improvements in race relations would have been hindered without laws being adopted, people of all races and classes must strive forward so their children can be the best they can be,” Geathers said. “I served my country. After World War II, I started getting involved – poking my head in, letting everyone know we’re here and we’re capable.” Before retiring, Geathers served as special assistant to former Congressman Andy Ireland. It was a job he enjoyed because he helped people. “That’s a big step from the black boy in Winter Haven who wasn’t able to go to school, church and work with white neighbors,” he said.
Bond Clinic, P.A. is proud to be one of the oldest businesses in Winter Haven. Founded in 1948 by Dr. Benjamin Bond, the clinic has grown throughout the years from our four doctors to more than 50, encompassing 23 specialties. While many things have changed in the last 60 years, our values remain the same. We will deliver high-quality health care in a compassionate, ethical and efficient manner. We will always attempt to treat our patients, our employees and our colleagues with dignity. We will promote our community by being a model corporate citizen and provide value to our business partners.
500 East Central Ave. • Call 293-1191 today for an appointment www.bondclinic.com FOCUS Magazine winter haven february 2011
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extra » al reuchel So when you tell your elected official we need to trim our spending and lower taxes and increase wages--- you are asking that person to do something you can’t in your own life. I know! Life happens! We have emergencies, deaths, Chinese drywall, blah di blah. So here is my challenge. Folks in Washington say we need to freeze salaries. So freeze yours. Take the same amount of money you made last year and use it to cover all your expenses this year. Put the extra away in an “Oh my gosh, I can really do this fund”. Now, reduce your spending by 10 percent, that’s the minimum amount the Congressional Budget Office estimates it would take to keep up with the current level of services. Cut the number of haircuts you get! Don’t go to so many movies. Eat out less often. Forget the vacation. You figure out where it’s going to come from. Oh, and while you are at it, how about putting aside a few extra dollars to pay off your national debt (home or car loan) a bit sooner. That’s impossible you say? No it’s not. Sure it will hurt and you won’t be happy about it… at least right now.
BIG AL’S I
BUDGET CHALLENGE Written By: Al Reuchel
know you’ve heard a lot of political leaders complain about government not living within its means and overspending. As our national debt rushes headlong to the 14-trillion dollar mark, the new folks we elected to serve in Washington are trying to come up with ways to avoid Armageddon. “After all,” they say tucking their hands in their back pockets, “Families all have to live within their budgets, so should government.” I like that thought. Sort of hits home, doesn’t it? Problem is, according to a new financial consumer survey, the vast majority of Americans don’t live within their means.
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Come the end of the year when you find you have a few extra dollars for Christmas and you didn’t get so skinny you blew away in the wind… and your wife and family still love you.. you may have made a great discovery. Putting together a budget, sitting down and putting it on paper instead of guessing and hoping you have enough to cover your bills can bring you peace of mind. It also makes you a responsible citizen.
february 2011 myfocustv.com
“
Reality in America is that “we the people” on our own--- without government-- are spending an average of 6 percent more per year than we earn. We can all list a dozen reasons for that: kids going to college, you’ve got to have a car to get to work, buying a home isn’t cheap, the girlfriend needs an engagement ring equal to three months of my salary, your tooth just cracked and you need a crown. I’ll stop there.
”
Reality in America is that “we the people” on our own--- without government-- are spending an average of 6 percent more per year than we earn. That’s an average and some folks do better than others and some even worse.
However, if you can’t stomach this, if the math drives you crazy, if you feel like you are being deprived some kind of national right to spend like a crazy man, then stop demanding leaders in Washington get our national books in order. Heck, what’s the difference between 14-trillion and say, 20-trillion. It’s all just a bunch of zeros anyway, isn’t it?
dining & entertainment » dining profile
Hurricane Grill & Wings Written By: Brent Simmons
Think about a cool sports bar with great food, a Key West décor, and the friendly atmosphere of the famous TV bar Cheers, and you have the Hurricane Grill & Wings. The concept is a franchise with restaurants located throughout Florida, but local owners Stan and Irene add a flavor to this location that makes it seem one of a kind. After 30 years in the mortgage business in Maryland, they decided to move south. In 2008 they bought the restaurant and settled in Winter Haven. Stan is a big guy with a friendly outgoing manner and one who tries to greet every guest. He is quick with a joke, or even a little self-deprecating humor. Irene is a wonderful lady and a new friend, who concentrates on running the business and making sure everything is up to her high standards. They have an awesome staff that makes you feel welcome and at home. This year Focus readers voted the Hurricane’s burger the Best Hamburger in Winter Haven. While I am a true lover of hamburgers and agree that theirs is incredible, the menu offers a wide variety of other dishes to please your taste buds, including grilled fish and salads for the health conscious. If you’re in it for the taste,
Hurricane Grill & Wings
and you don’t mind a few extra calories, then let their signature Garlic & Parmesan Fries be the start of your meal.
and give the Hurricane a try – Remember to tell them you read about it in Focus Magazine.
During our visit I had, guess what, a burger - and I was not disappointed. Linda gave the wings a try and true to the advertising, she thought they were great. The Hurricane boasts over 30 flavors of the sports bar favorite, and their takeout service is a great way to serve great wings to your family and guests during the Super Bowl or any event. Let them do the work and you can sit back and enjoy. If wings aren’t your thing, then try their Wood Smoked Fish Dip Platter or the Philly Platter loaded with either chicken, steak, or Mahi-Mahi. All sides are available in takeout portions, as well.
P.S. The Hurricane will be hosting a Super Bowl party with all-you-can-eat and drink specials. Give them a call to learn more.
6370 Cypress Gardens Blvd. Winter Haven, FL 33884 863.324.5157 www.hurricanewings.com
Dining in you can enjoy a great selection of ice-cold beer, and views on the eleven flat screen TVs that offer your favorite sports all year long. On Tuesday nights they host Winter Haven’s original trivia game that has become a local favorite. I spoke to Hurricane regular Sue Knight who summed it up this way, when asked what she liked about the Hurricane: “I like the atmosphere. The food is great, and it’s a fun place.” I couldn’t say it better. Stop by FOCUS Magazine winter haven february 2011
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entertainment » event calendar
Winter Haven
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
tuesday, feb. 01, 2011 » Minimum Property Maintenance Standards 2:00pm - 4:00pm 452 Third Street This is an opportunity to learn about the changes to the City’s Code for property maintenance standards. These changes include more clarity, inclusion of commercial structures, and higher maintenance standards.
saturday, feb. 05, 2011 » Discovering Beauty in Gardens and Wild Places 9:00am Bok Tower Gardens Exhibit included with general admission. www. boktowergardens.org; 863-676-1408 » Watercolor Painting Class 1:00pm - 3:00pm Lake Wales Public Library » Main Street Market Day 9:00am - 2:00pm Virginia Miller Park For vendor information please call Main Street Winter Haven at 863-295-9422. 7th Annual Smoke on the Water BBQ Competition 10:00am - 5:00pm Citrus Center Boys & Girls Club
Calling all four legged friends to enjoy an afternoon in downtown Winter Haven.Bring your owners and enjoy the wiener dog races, vendors, live band and much more! » Pancake Festival 7:00am - 12:00pm St. Matthew Catholic Church Tickets are $5. Children 6 and under eat free. Tickets are available at the Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce, 401 Avenue B NW, Doty Farm & Garden, 299 6th St. SW or from Kiwanis members. This event includes a raffle style silent auction featuring high quality gift baskets from local merchants and contributors. Contact Amanda-Jo Nicholson at 863-242-6934 or Dave Rounds at 863 287-7677 if you have questions about this event.
monday, feb. 14, 2011
saturday, feb. 12, 2011
saturday, feb. 19, 2011
» Watercolor Painting Class 1:00pm - 3:00pm Lake Wales Public Library
» Live at the Gardens 7:30pm - 9:00pm Bok Tower Gardens Victoria de Lissovoy returns with Doug Mathews, bass; David MacKenzie, saxophone; Paul Butcher, trumpet & flugelhorn and Ian Goodman on drums. An evening of warm jazz atmosphere with
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tHursday, feb. 24, 2011 » The Sound Of Music 7:30pm Theatre Winter Haven For more information or to purchase tickets call 863-294-7469.
» 2011 Polk Senior Games 8:00am Various locations in Polk County Cost: Registration fee – $10 first event; $3 each additional; Team fees vary For more information, contact: Deena Wilbur, Polk Senior Games 863533-0055
tuesday, mar. 1, 2011 » Public forum to discuss a potential Winter Haven Charter Middle School. There is a public presentation to discuss a potential Winter Haven Charter Middle School. This meeting will be held at 7 P.M. at Christ Community Church. The address is 1895 Overlook Dr. SE. Winter Haven, Florida 33884. Anyone interested in fact finding or to volunteer for this project is encouraged to attend this meeting. Additional information can be requested at bsagator515@aol.com
tHursday, feb. 17, 2011
» Ladies’ Night Out at the Pink Chix The Evening of Shopping, Pampering & Good Times! 6:00 - 9:00 pm at The Pink Chix Couture 25 3rd Street, NW, Downtown Winter Haven, Call (863)875-0100 to reserve your free Mini Facial time slot.
» Bark in the Park 2:00pm - 8:00pm Main Street
» Cattle Baron’s Ball 6:00pm - 11:00pm Bunch Ranch 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 and celebrate our 10th Annual Cattle Baron’s Ball Fundraiser with the Biggest Birthday Party in Polk County of its kind benefiting the American Cancer Society. Individual tickets are $100. A “Trail Boss” table, which includes admission for 10 with preferred seating and program recognition, is $1,500.
saturday, feb. 26, 2011
» A Romantic Valentine Evening of Viennese Music 6:30pm - 9:00pm Bok Tower Gardens Strolling “Viennese” musicians bring to life the waltzes of Johan Strauss, Franz Lehar and others. Each table will seat three to four couples. Welcome reception in the garden before dinner (weather permitting). Menu selection available. Limited seating; $180 per couple or members $165 per couple. www.boktowergardens.org; 863-676-1408
» Moonlight Carillon Concert 7:30pm - 9:00pm Bok Tower Gardens The 2011 Moonlight Carillon Concert series continues with an hour-long carillon concerts under the light of the full moon. Visit the Gardens after normal operating hours for half-price admission and have a light dinner at the Blue Palmetto Café. www.boktowergardens.org ; 863.676.1408
Wednesday, feb. 09, 2011
a variety of styles and renditions and many great standards will delight audiences by these popular Central Florida jazz musicians. Limited seating; reservations recommended. $25 or members $20.
Isn’t it beautiful? Let’s keep it that way!
FOCUS Magazine winter haven february 2011
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Ford TrimoTor
Limited Aviation Replica Enjoy a fascinating exemplary collectible from a bygone age
Ford Trimotor 4-AT, the Tin Goose
Between 1926 and 1933 some 200 Ford Trimotors were built in Ford’s own factory. The corrugated metal on great thick monoplane
wings was a German development. The planes were flying the Berlin-Rome-London route by airline companies. The Trimotor was also used by oil companies and wealthy individuals for business and pleasure. The Ford Trimotor were pioneering aircraft that lead to generations of Douglas and Boeing fleets of aircraft, soon to criss-cross the world. Specifications: Length fuselage 26.25”, Wingspan 39.75”, Capacity 12 passengers, Takeoff weight 5 tons, 3 Wright J-6 300 hp radial engines, Solid Cast Flight Stand Included.
Limited Production Offered at $500.00
NOW AVAIALABLE AS WELL “The Spirit of Saint Louis”
The replica is a work of art. This is the plane that Charles Linberg flew solo non-stop from New York to Paris in 1927. Take a peek through the windows into a detailed aircraft. Wing Spain is 19.5” and Length is 12.75”. Limited Production offered at $185.00 View both aircraft on our website. (Click) “Collectables” / Aviation to view video clip at www.AndyThornal.com