FOCUS Lakeland 06-12

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LOCAL STORIES • DINING • REAL ESTATE • ENTERTAINMENT • BUSINESSJANUARY 2011VOLUME 6 ISSUE 12

LAKELAND EDITION

CHAIRMAN OF LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

FOCUS Magazine lakeland January 2011

Eat Better. Love Life. Live Longer.

www.FredsSouthernKitchen.com

facebook.com/FredsSouthernKitchen

FOCUS Magazine lakeland January 2011 3

Get Your Advance Tickets Today! www.flstrawberryfestival.com

MAR. 3 - MAR. 13, 2011 - PLANT CITY, FLORIDA

Cool Whip • Stingray Chevrolet • TECO • Premium Leisure • Southern Ford Dealers • CF Industries • Patterson Companies Mahaffey Tent Rentals • Verizon Wireless • Candyland Warehouse

.38 SPECIAL

TRACE ADKINS

KENNY ROGERS

RICK SPRINGFIELD

CHARLEY PRIDE

BILLY RAY CYRUS

CLINT BLACK

TANYA TUCKER

THE DOOBIE BROTHERSGEORGE JONES

CHRIS YOUNG

JENNETTE MCCURDY

TRACE ADKINS

KENNY ROGERS

CLINT BLACK

TANYA TUCKER

THE JUDDS (The Last Encore)

LADY ANTEBELLUM

Thu. Mar. 3 10:30 am Jimmy Sturr & Orchestra FREE Thu. Mar. 3 3:30 pm Bobby Vinton $10 & $15 Thu. Mar. 3 7:30 pm Kenny Rogers $15 & $20 Fri. Mar. 4 3:30 pm John Conlee $10 & $15 Fri. Mar. 4 7:30 pm .38 Special $20 & $25 Sat. Mar. 5 1:00 pm Suite Caroline FREE Sat. Mar. 5 3:30 pm Jeremy Camp $20 & $25 Sat. Mar. 5 7:30 pm Gaither Vocal Band $20 & $25 Sun. Mar. 6 3:30 pm Trace Adkins $25 & $30 Sun. Mar. 6 7:30 pm The Judds (The Last Encore) $45 Mon. Mar. 7 3:30 pm Charley Pride $15 & $20 Mon. Mar. 7 7:30 pm Clint Black $20 & $25 Tues. Mar. 8 3:30 pm Chubby Checker $15 & $20 Tues. Mar. 8 7:30 pm Chris Young $20 & $25 Wed. Mar. 9 3:30 pm Tanya Tucker $15 & $20 Wed. Mar. 9 7:30 pm Rick Springfield $20 & $25 Thu. Mar. 10 10:30 am The Guy Lombardo Band FREE Thu. Mar. 10 3:30 pm George Jones $15 & $20 Thu. Mar. 10 7:30 pm The Doobie Brothers $25 & $30 Fri. Mar. 11 3:30 pm Ray Price $10 & $15 Fri. Mar. 11 7:30 pm Josh Thompson/ Justin Moore $15 & $20 Sat. Mar. 12 3:30 pm Allstar Weekend & Jennette McCurdy $10 & $15 Sat. Mar. 12 7:30 pm Billy Ray Cyrus $20 & $25 Sun. Mar. 13 3:30 pm Easton Corbin $15 & $20 Sun. Mar. 13 7:30 pm Lady Antebellum $45

Free Grandstand seating, 3:30 & 7:30 pm are on a first come, first seated basis.

Order: www.flstrawberryfestival.com or 813-754-1996

Artists Appearing on the Wish Farms Soundstage:

Concert dates and times are subject to change

FOCUS Magazine lakeland January 2011

702 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Plant City 33563

Phone 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990

PublisherMike Floyd

Offi ce Managerdede Floyd

Copy Editorlynne WarrenCheryl Johnston

SalesSophia HydeSheryl VitelliHolly FarmerBrent Simmonslinda Simmons

Productionanthony SassanoTony Cartagena

PhotographersBilly FriendTony Cartagena

Staff WritersBrian WestJohn RossCheryl JohnstonBrent Simmonskristi linbaugh

Contributorsal RuechelBruce Rodwellgil gottJo-an lusknate davisnatalie SweetFelix haynesderek Maul

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Licensed territories are available. If you are interested in owning your

own Focus Magazine call Mike Floyd at 813-707-8783 ext. 26

7 lOCalLakeland and the surrounding areas are such great communities where the residents seem to understand what is important in life - it is all about community. Find out about several events, and local people that continue to make Lakeland an amazing place to live.

14 FeaTUReTh is month meet Matthew Oliver, an 18-year-old pianist who was been blind since birth. As the state winner for the Florida Very Special Artists competition, he will next compete nationally in Washington, D.C.

18 - al Reuchel 19 - derek Maul 27 - event Calendar

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

26 dining ReVieWNot only will the name of the Chop Shop restaurant need to be posted in your contact info, but you’ll probably want photo images, too. Read this review and prepare to be hungry enough to jump in the car with the family and head down for an incredible experience. Ty and Abby will be waiting for you.

tABle of Contents

ONTHECOVER aLice huntphoto By BiLLy Friend

January 2011voLuMe 6 issue 12

STANDARDS OF ACCURACYThe 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 [email protected]. The staff wil l f ix the error in a timely manner.

Readers who wish to respond to an article – not correct facts – can do so by writing a letter to the editor. If you need any other type of assistance, then please view the directory for the appropriate department. The staff at FOCUS Magazine is committed to serving their consumers and customers to the fullest of abil it ies. You’re paying attention to our words. Let us pay attention to yours.

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FOCUS Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Plant City businesses, restaurants and many local venues.

Letters, Questions and Comments can be sent to us at [email protected].

Advertisers warrant and represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. FOCUS Magazine assumes no responsibil ity 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 necessari ly those of Floyd Publications, Inc. Use or duplication of material used in this publication is prohibited without approved written consent from Floyd Publications, Inc.

702 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563

Phone 813.707.8783 • Fax 813.764.0990

FOCUS Magazine lakeland January 2011 5

January 2011 thefocusmagazine.com6 FOCUS Magazine lakeland January 2011FOCUS Magazine lakeland January 2011

last January I wrote my letter from the publisher about goal

setting. I shared that I had started a dream board and in 2010 wanted to hone in on where I was taking my life. I would have to say that it worked. By constantly reminding myself of what I wanted in the long run, I was able to look at every small decision to be made and ask “Is this going to get me closer to a goal?” If not, it was a distraction. In retrospect, I believe that this year I was better than usual at looking at my long-term goals and saying no when I needed to.

However, as I look into 2011, I am doing a lot of refocusing on my business. Any business owner is constantly analyzing how to become more eff ective. One way to do that is to create a stronger bond amongst the staff . If everyone in the company is passionate about the product they are producing, committed to working hard, and able to work as a team, the entire company is more successful. As they say, “A rising tide lifts all boats.”

For this year, our staff came up with the idea to take on 11 adventures in 2011. We are in the process of mapping out 11 out-of-the-box things to do together that we otherwise wouldn’t experience. A few items on the list are getting scuba diving certifi ed, sky diving, driving a racecar, barrel racing and several more. Not only is this list inspirational on an individual level, but we will be a stronger team by experiencing them all together.

Th is month our spotlight interview is with Alice Hunt, the new Chairman of the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce. She is a wonderful example of a woman who has led many teams, whether they be for the business she and her husband own or the plethora of philanthropic work she has done. She will be bringing a lot of experience and talent to the table for the coming year. Read her interview this month to get to know a little more about her background and her plans for the coming year.

Letter FroM the puBLisher

Mike FloydPublisher

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15th AnnuAl lAkelAnd Pigfest

LocaL » Focus

Written By: Cheryl JohnstonBBQ, Music, Friends, charity

Plan now to attend the 15th Annual Lakeland Pigfest on January 28-29, 2011 at the Tiger Town Complex in

Lakeland. Come enjoy one of the best BBQ festivals of 2011 with plenty of food, music, and friends for the benefit of local charities!

Whether you’re competing among the 150-plus teams or just enjoying, this festival is worth your time and money.

Admission into the 2011 Lakeland Pigfest is free, but attendees purchase Pigbucks on site to enjoy the savory barbecue prepared by some of the country’s best competition teams.

Over the past 15 years, the Lakeland Pig Festival has contributed nearly $500,000 to local charities and is recognized nationally as one of the Top-10 Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS) events in the country. Approximately 50,000 people attended in 2010.

Thanks to the dedication of community volunteers, each successive year has brought more contestants, more sponsors, and greater attendance. Strong sponsors maximize the outreach efforts and are the key to inspiring the efforts of the organizations that partner with Pigfest.

The Lakeland Pig Festival idea was conceived in 1994 when a small group of local businessmen, vacationing in North Carolina, attended a Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS) sanctioned barbeque championship in Tryon. As community interest grew, then Governor Lawton Chiles signed the formal sanctioning request on November 19, 1996 for the Lakeland Pig Festival to become a Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) State Championship event. Finally, the first competition took place on March 21, 1997.

In 2004, a Kids-Q Contest was added that follows all KCBS Kids rules and regulations. Children cook on their own grills in a designated area, competing for awards

presented at the main stage.

In 2008, Pigfest expanded to include Friday evening activities with live music and entertainment.

according to its website, KCBS is “the largest international organization of barbeque enthusiasts” and has sanctioned the Lakeland Pig Festival since its first contest in 1997. Over 200 professional teams travel from all over the U.S. to compete in four categories: Ribs, Chicken, Pork and Brisket. They come for camaraderie, Florida sunshine and prize money. Many return year after year.

KCBS trained and certified judges also travel great distances to determine the best of the best at the Pigfest. Since 1997, 183 people from throughout the U.S. have completed the Judging School right here in Lakeland, held a few days prior to the contest.

Proceeds benefit a variety of charitable interests throughout the community. Together with the Junior League of Greater

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

Publix, a major sponsor since 1997, offers the Publix Backyard Competition, the largest KCBS sanctioned backyard competition in the nation. Teams compete in the same four categories: Ribs, Chicken, Pork, Brisket. The backyard cookers, who compete for bragging rights, ribbons and trophies, also follow KCBS rules and regulations. Many teams attend Judging School to learn about the four elements the judges consider. Some amateur competitors even move into the pro realm.

Other 2011 sponsors for include CF, Coca-Cola, Budweiser, Constellation, Kingsford, McDonald Construction, Badcock Home Furnishings, Comanco Environmental, Southern Industrial Constructors, Ardamamon & Associates, Baron Realty, Inc., Lakeland Electric, and Springer Peterson.

Applications are now available! For more information and directions to the event, contact Lakeland Pigfest at 863.450.3322 or [email protected].


sAntACon 2010 one oF santa’s eLves (david McdonaLd), santa hiMseLF (Brian dockery), and coWgirL

santa (krista hakes) posed For a picture aFter the 80 person FLip-cup gaMe.

LocaL » Focus

Written By: taylor FlumerFelt

the streets of downtown Lakeland brimmed with Santas, elves, and other holiday characters Saturday, December

18th. Lakeland’s 2nd annual SantaCon proved to be the perfect way to commence this year’s holiday season.

SantaCon, short for Santa Convention, first began in 1994. This part bar crawl, part flash mob event encourages attendees to enjoy each other’s presence while dressed in Santa suits and joining in creative ways to bring good tidings to all. San Francisco is home to the first SantaCon, which was backed by The San Francisco Cacophony Society. Now it’s held in 181 locations in 25 various countries. Some of those locations, such as Adelaide in Australia, Kathmandu in Nepal, and Honolulu in Hawaii, hosted their 2010 SantaCon’s on December 18th as well. Each location has put distinctive twists on the original idea that reflects the culture of the site.

Chad Lindsey, Jen Lysak, and Krista Hakes are to thank for the introduction of SantaCon to Lakeland. Lindsey, the main organizer of the event, was inspired a few years ago by his friend Cristie Castaldi, who planned to attend the New York City SantaCon Flash Mob. When Lindsey discovered Castaldi wasn’t going to be able to take part in the event, he decided to bring this unique function to her. Lysak admitted that “It was about time it was brought to Lakeland.” Castaldi’s mention of SantaCon fused with the inspiration of the numerous other SantaCon’s held worldwide. This combination provided an ideal starting point for welcoming this phenomenon to Lakeland.

Hakes commented, “There is no ‘cause’ associated with the event except for spreading holiday cheer.” Lindsey added, “The purpose of the event is for people of all ages to come together in the spirit of revelry.”

Linksters Tap Room served as the new starting point for the afternoon’s festivities. Attendees gathered at 3 p.m. and an 80-person flip-cup game followed at 4 p.m. in Preservation Alley. The group traveled down to Molly McHugh’s Irish Pub at 5 p.m. to sing carols. From 6 p.m. on, Santas and elves alike danced the night away at 210 City Club Martini and Wine Bar.

The only costs associated with this event are the price for whichever version of Santa’s suit attendees choose and drinks throughout the night to keep the merriment alive.

Participants were asked to follow a few simple guidelines, such as dressing in outfits resembling various interpretations of Santa. Other rules included remaining cheerful throughout the duration of the festivities and keeping up with the crowd when moving from location to location.

Even though Lakeland’s first SantaCon only ushered approximately 20 people onto the streets of downtown Lakeland, the marketing work of Lindsey resulted in an attendance of over 250 people this year. This provides hope and excitement for the

future of Lakeland’s SantaCon, as well as the legacy it is creating through the lives of those who take part in the event. “In a small town like this, we have to make sure to focus on the bigger picture and make sure the event is adding to our culture and community and not taking away,” explained Lindsey. “Something happens to people when they put a Santa outfit on. They drop their guard and really enjoy socializing with the other Santas who join the event.”


“I Didn’t Want To Dig To China, I Just Wanted To Tend To My Garden.”

For more information or for a physician referral,

call (813) 402-2331. For a list of orthopedic seminars or to take an online Orthopedic Risk Assessment, visit MobilityIsEverything.org.

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Ordinary tasks don’t have to be impossible. Jane didn’t want to spend the rest of her life in pain, so she chose the skilled orthopedic team at South Florida Baptist Hospital to repair her knee.

Years of kneeling in the garden took a toll on my knee – when I had to have it repaired, I trusted South Florida Baptist. � anks to them, I’m able to do what I love again!”

� e comprehensive orthopedic program at South Florida Baptist Hospital will take care of all your needs, from diagnosis to treatment to rehabilitation. And you’ll receive dedicated care from a team that handles only orthopedic patients.

Advanced technology. Great patient outcomes. We’ll make the ‘impossible’ possible again.

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19th AnnuAl Polk senior gAmes

LocaL » Focus

Written By: Cheryl Johnston

creating unForgettaBLe senior MoMents

seniors, get your game on! Show your stuff at the 19th Annual Polk Senior Games by competing or volunteering.

Th is annual two-week series of 36 athletic and recreational Olympic-style events is for men and women 50 years-plus. Competitions at various locations throughout Polk County happen from February 26 - March 13, 2011.

Advance registration is required. Polk County residency is not required.

Th e Games promote an active lifestyle, an interest in sports, and volunteerism. For 16 days, over 2,500 seniors - serious competitors, the fun at heart, seasoned athletes, and the physically challenged - compete in 85 events. Some events qualify top fi nishers to advance to the Florida Senior Games, which lead to the National Senior Games.

Registration extends from January 3 - February 11, 2011. Download forms from www.polkseniorgames.org or request the packet/rules from Deena Wilbur, Executive Director. Phone (863)533-0055 or e-mail

[email protected]. Mail or deliver application and fees to 515 East Boulevard Street in Bartow.

Th e entry fee is $10 for the fi rst event and $3 for each additional, up to a maximum of $28. Fee includes a T-shirt, refreshments, and a closing celebration. (Some events have additional facility fees or team fees.)

Events include: Badminton, Basketball, Billiards, Bocce, Bowling, Bridge, Checkers, Chess, Cribbage, Ballroom and Social Dancing, Square Dancing, Darts, Euchre, Field Events, Fishing, Golf, Putt & Chip, Horseshoes, Lawn Bowling, Pepper, Pickleball, Power Lifting, Punt-Pass-Kick, Racquetball, Road Race 5K, Scrabble, Senior Smarts, Trap & Skeet Shooting, Shuffl eboard, Softball, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Track and Walking.

More than 600 volunteers get involved: distributing posters/brochures, soliciting door prizes, event check-in, refreshments, sport timers, monitors, health/safety personnel, and more. All receive a T-shirt and the joy of promoting healthy aging.

19th AnnuAl Polk senior gAmes Written By:

sTh is annual two-week series of 36 athletic and recreational Olympic-style events is for men and women 50 years-plus. Competitions at various locations throughout Polk County happen from February 26 - March 13, 2011.

Advance registration is required. Polk County residency is not required.

Th e Games promote an active lifestyle, an interest in sports, and volunteerism. For 16 days, over 2,500 seniors - serious competitors, the fun at heart, seasoned athletes, and the physically challenged - compete in 85 events. Some events qualify top fi nishers to advance to the Florida Senior Games, which lead to the National Senior Games.

Registration extends from January 3 - February 11, 2011. Download forms from www.polkseniorgames.org or request the packet/rules from Deena Wilbur, Executive Director. Phone (863)533-0055 or e-mail

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- email us at: editorial@fl oydpublications.com


Culture roCk 2010

LocaL » Focus

Written By: Cheryl JohnstoneQuips teens to Be diFFerence Makers

more than 1,000 teens and many parents attended the motivational Culture Rock event this month at the

Lakeland Center.

The focus of the January 8, 2011 conference was to “Equip a Generation, Connect with Parents, and Encourage a Culture” by inspiring youth through a greater understanding of God’s best plan for their lives.

This Polk County annual event began originally to teach teen girls about fashionable, yet modest dress. The next year a guys’ event was added. Last year the 2009 conference for boys and girls, grades 7-12, drew 1,200 attendees.

Bill and Pam Mutz co-chaired the committee of parents, youth pastors, counselors and community leaders concerned about unhealthy portrayals of dating and relationships that seem prominent in teen-targeted media.

This year students and parents determined that “It’s Time to Take a Stand.” They

learned together through general sessions and gender/grade level breakout workshops, which subsequently will provide open doors for relevant discussion.

Teens connected with the speaker, Mike Donahue, because he shared personally about enduring an abusive family and his self-medicating the pain with drugs and alcohol. USAF military service provided some guidance and direction, but he didn’t discover his life’s purpose until he developed a relationship with Christ. Life and four children with his wife Andrea, along with 18 years of youth ministry, have prepared him for the work of his last eight years.

Today, his R5 Productions group delivers one of the most sought after non-religious school assembly programs in the nation. He advises teens that, “Nobody hands you your dream. If you really want to live on a higher level you have to go after it.”

Three R5 speakers tackle subjects like Self Medication, Bullying and Respect. To date, they’ve offered truth and offer hope to touch more than one million students where they live. Mike Donohue’s two popular books,

Reinvent Your Normal and Hidden Scars: A Conversation about Cutting, are available online at www.mikedonohue.net.

Shelly Donahue (unrelated to Mike), National WAIT Trainer and a Love and Relationship educator who speaks at national and medical conventions, has done previous training events for Polk County. She presented the cold, hard facts about disease and emotional pain that can result from sexual relationships outside of marriage. This 19-year veteran high school health/PE teacher, and volleyball/basketball/track coach also co-created WAIT Training, (Why Am I Tempted?), an abstinence and relationship public school curriculum.

Music provided by Christian rock group Fiat Lux, composed of Southeastern University students, was a big hit with the crowd, as was emcee Ben Strawbridge.

Vendors offered resources to reinforce the message. Nancy Fitzgerald, who has created a public school curriculum addressing worldview differences met with parents to provide pointers about how they can help their teens maintain a biblical

worldview. Check it out online - www.anchorsawayministries.org.

Conference registrants also received T-shirts and a box lunch. Most importantly, they heard truth that inspired them. Facebook comments posted that evening from students included these: “… it was awesome! In learning all of what I got (from the speakers), I had to a make a difficult decision and I did, and I’m happy for myself... I’m def coming back next year:)”

Another wrote, “Thank you, Culture Rock, for opening my eyes to the adult side of the story, and telling me that I matter and reminding me there is a God who cares for me. The non-judgmental approach was a mindset I could understand and that was not the same thing as we hear from everyone else.”

To schedule an R5 Productions program for your school or conference, visit www.mikedonahue.net. To offer help with next year’s Culture Rock or e-mail Katie DeLoach at [email protected].


Mrs. Evelyn Madonia - Owner/General ManagerWWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COM

TEL: 813.752.3141I-4 Exit 21 • 2011 N. Wheeler St.• Plant City, FL 33563

Remember Valentine’s Day!Make Your Reservations Today.

JANUARY 14 – RICHIE MERRITTRichie Merritt of the Marcels will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room with P.J. Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds.

JANUARY 15JIM STAFFORDSinger-songwriter and comedian, Jim Stafford will grace the stage in the Red Rose Ballroom on this evening for his special birthday celebration. His hits include: Swamp Witch,Spiders and Snakes, and My Girl Bill. Jim’s music has been covered by George Jones and Jerry Reed and he has contributedto several movie soundtracks. Also performing - PJ Leary &The Las Vegas Sounds before and after the show. Space is limited, so please RSVP for this great dinner show soon!

JANUARY 21 & 29

RALPH ALLOCCO & SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

JANUARY 22BOB ANDERSON“A Night in Vegas” Las Vegas Hall of Fame Entertainer! Rich, smooth voice- and great impressionist! PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds will also perform.

JANUARY 28JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Soundsperform before and after the show.

JANUARY 29THE FABULOUS HUBCAPS“One of the Nation’s Most Sought After Oldies Show Bands.”Tributes to Bobby Darin, Ray Charles, Sinatra, Sonny &Cher... and much more! Plus, PJ Leary & The Las VegasSounds.

FEBRUARY 4, 12, 19 & 26


FEBRUARY 5 & 25JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Soundsperform before and after the show.

FEBRUARY 12THE WORLD FAMOUS PLATTERS –“ENCHANTED” VALENTINE SHOWEnjoy a romantic evening of continuous hits – “Smoke GetsIn Your Eyes,” “Only You,” “Twilight Time,” “Enchanted”...and more in a supper club atmosphere. Plus, PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds in the Red Rose Ballroom.

FEBRUARY 12RALPH ALLOCO & SECOND WIND –“UNFORGETTABLE” VALENTINE SHOWIt’s a three hour Las Vegas style show, in the Red Rose DiningRoom, featuring adult contemporary music including showtunes and those special romantic songs for just the right Valentine’s atmosphere!

FEBRUARY 18

RICHIE MERRITTRichie Merritt of the Marcels will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room.

FEBRUARY 19

THE VAN DELLS50s & 60s Rock and Roll – The Van Dells are a unique blendof comedy, choreography and tight harmonies... the group isnonstop action from start to finish! Plus, PJ Leary & The LasVegas Sounds will also perform before and after the show inthe Red Rose Ballroom.

FEBRUARY 26

THE LEGACY OF THE TEMPTATIONSBack by popular demand. This group will thrill you with thehits that we have loved for so long... including: “Ain’t TooProud to Beg and “Papa Was A Rolling Stone!” Plus, RichieMerrit and PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds.

MARCH 5

LOLA & THE SAINTSDoo Wop At Its Best! Relive the 50s & 60s as though it wasyesterday. “Forever in Love,” “Just Over the BrooklynBridge.” Plus, PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds.

MARCH 11 & 12

DOOWOP WEEKEND - VOL. 5The annual is event is underway for another spectacular extravaganza! The celebrity line up includes: The DelPrados,George Galfo’s Mystics, The Edsels (performing Saturdaynight only!), Terry Johnson’s Flamingos, P.J. Leary & The LasVegas Sounds, Destiny andRalph Allocco & Second Wind.Many activities areincluded to enhance the weekend and totake a trip down Memory Lane, including Hula Hoop, Danceand Costume contests!

MARCH 19 & 25JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Soundsperform before and after the show.

MARCH 26

BUDDY HOLLY & BEATLESTRIBUTE SHOWCome get boppin & rock’in for this fabulous show that willmake you yearn for the days of ... (as Paul McCartney wouldsay) – Yesterday! Space is limited, so please RSVP for this greatdinner show soon!

APRIL 2BOB RYMAN “THE FIDDLER”Bob Ryman “The Fiddler” was a legend in the area for manyyears when The Red Rose was Lanny Purcell’s Holiday Innand was also a favorite at Florida The Strawberry Festival®. Because of his fans’ request, The Red Rose Inn is bringing“The Fiddler” back. P.J.Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds willopen & close the show in the Red Rose Ballroom.

SHOW RESERVATIONSPlease call for ticket prices. Shows in the Red Rose Ballroom are in a supper

club atmosphere with a four course meal (seats also available for the show only – for a lower price!)

NO COVER CHARGE for shows in the 5-Star Red Rose Dining Room withthe purchase of dinner. Show Guests - inquire about our special room rates

when staying overnight after a show!

The Premier Showplace for Talent in Florida

RRCalendar_FocusPC_Dec2010:Layout 1 1/10/11 8:10 AM Page 1


Mrs. Evelyn Madonia - Owner/General ManagerWWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COM

TEL: 813.752.3141I-4 Exit 21 • 2011 N. Wheeler St.• Plant City, FL 33563

Remember Valentine’s Day!Make Your Reservations Today.

JANUARY 14 – RICHIE MERRITTRichie Merritt of the Marcels will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room with P.J. Leary and the Las Vegas Sounds.

JANUARY 15JIM STAFFORDSinger-songwriter and comedian, Jim Stafford will grace the stage in the Red Rose Ballroom on this evening for his special birthday celebration. His hits include: Swamp Witch,Spiders and Snakes, and My Girl Bill. Jim’s music has been covered by George Jones and Jerry Reed and he has contributedto several movie soundtracks. Also performing - PJ Leary &The Las Vegas Sounds before and after the show. Space is limited, so please RSVP for this great dinner show soon!

JANUARY 21 & 29


JANUARY 22BOB ANDERSON“A Night in Vegas” Las Vegas Hall of Fame Entertainer! Rich, smooth voice- and great impressionist! PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds will also perform.

JANUARY 28JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Soundsperform before and after the show.

JANUARY 29THE FABULOUS HUBCAPS“One of the Nation’s Most Sought After Oldies Show Bands.”Tributes to Bobby Darin, Ray Charles, Sinatra, Sonny &Cher... and much more! Plus, PJ Leary & The Las VegasSounds.

FEBRUARY 4, 12, 19 & 26


FEBRUARY 5 & 25JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Soundsperform before and after the show.

FEBRUARY 12THE WORLD FAMOUS PLATTERS –“ENCHANTED” VALENTINE SHOWEnjoy a romantic evening of continuous hits – “Smoke GetsIn Your Eyes,” “Only You,” “Twilight Time,” “Enchanted”...and more in a supper club atmosphere. Plus, PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds in the Red Rose Ballroom.

FEBRUARY 12RALPH ALLOCO & SECOND WIND –“UNFORGETTABLE” VALENTINE SHOWIt’s a three hour Las Vegas style show, in the Red Rose DiningRoom, featuring adult contemporary music including showtunes and those special romantic songs for just the right Valentine’s atmosphere!

FEBRUARY 18

RICHIE MERRITTRichie Merritt of the Marcels will be performing in the Red Rose Dining Room.

FEBRUARY 19

THE VAN DELLS50s & 60s Rock and Roll – The Van Dells are a unique blendof comedy, choreography and tight harmonies... the group isnonstop action from start to finish! Plus, PJ Leary & The LasVegas Sounds will also perform before and after the show inthe Red Rose Ballroom.

FEBRUARY 26

THE LEGACY OF THE TEMPTATIONSBack by popular demand. This group will thrill you with thehits that we have loved for so long... including: “Ain’t TooProud to Beg and “Papa Was A Rolling Stone!” Plus, RichieMerrit and PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds.

MARCH 5

LOLA & THE SAINTSDoo Wop At Its Best! Relive the 50s & 60s as though it wasyesterday. “Forever in Love,” “Just Over the BrooklynBridge.” Plus, PJ Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds.

MARCH 11 & 12

DOOWOP WEEKEND - VOL. 5The annual is event is underway for another spectacular extravaganza! The celebrity line up includes: The DelPrados,George Galfo’s Mystics, The Edsels (performing Saturdaynight only!), Terry Johnson’s Flamingos, P.J. Leary & The LasVegas Sounds, Destiny andRalph Allocco & Second Wind.Many activities areincluded to enhance the weekend and totake a trip down Memory Lane, including Hula Hoop, Danceand Costume contests!

MARCH 19 & 25JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary & The Las Vegas Soundsperform before and after the show.

MARCH 26

BUDDY HOLLY & BEATLESTRIBUTE SHOWCome get boppin & rock’in for this fabulous show that willmake you yearn for the days of ... (as Paul McCartney wouldsay) – Yesterday! Space is limited, so please RSVP for this greatdinner show soon!

APRIL 2BOB RYMAN “THE FIDDLER”Bob Ryman “The Fiddler” was a legend in the area for manyyears when The Red Rose was Lanny Purcell’s Holiday Innand was also a favorite at Florida The Strawberry Festival®. Because of his fans’ request, The Red Rose Inn is bringing“The Fiddler” back. P.J.Leary & The Las Vegas Sounds willopen & close the show in the Red Rose Ballroom.

SHOW RESERVATIONSPlease call for ticket prices. Shows in the Red Rose Ballroom are in a supper

club atmosphere with a four course meal (seats also available for the show only – for a lower price!)

NO COVER CHARGE for shows in the 5-Star Red Rose Dining Room withthe purchase of dinner. Show Guests - inquire about our special room rates

when staying overnight after a show!

The Premier Showplace for Talent in Florida

RRCalendar_FocusPC_Dec2010:Layout 1 1/10/11 8:10 AM Page 1


Feature» MattheW oLiver

Written By: BrIan West

p L a y i n g p i a n o i s n ’ t J u s t F o r t h e s i g h t e dMATTHEW OL IVER WINS VERY SPECIAL ARTS FLOR IDA YOUNG SOLOIST COMPET IT IONMATTHEW OL IVER WINS VERY SPECIAL ARTS FLOR IDA YOUNG SOLOIST COMPET IT ION


many children take up a musical instrument at an early age; some by choice and others by the choice

of their parents. At the age of 6, Matthew Oliver chose to start playing piano, which may not seem too different than many other children learning piano, until you realize that Oliver is blind. Oliver, a Winter Haven native, said, “When I was little I’d listen to music and I liked a variety of music. I noticed certain patterns in music, but my parents couldn’t explain it to me because they weren’t musicians.” His parents eventually offered him piano lessons, and he accepted. The first challenge was to find a teacher. As easy as that may sound, it wasn’t. Oliver said, “Not many instructors, music or otherwise, are too willing to accept a blind person.” They eventually found Mr. Walter Billingsly, and he agreed to teach Oliver. He currently studies with Christine Arenas.

You might wonder, “How does someone who’s blind actually learn to play piano?” Oliver says there is sheet music made for those who are visually impaired. Braille music is made up of symbols that represent notes, and different symbols represent different octaves. Oliver must read the music memorizing it section by section and listen to it several times before learning to actually play it on the piano. One of the most recent pieces Oliver learned to play took almost two months to learn.

Oliver has been blind since birth. He was born with micropthalmia, which is a developmental disorder of the eye, which literally means, small eye. Oliver’s eyes were too small. He has very slight vision in one eye that allows him to see only bright colors. So he wears traditional glasses to attempt to preserve that vision.

Oliver said, “When you’re born blind, you automatically adapt to certain things.” So something that is new, you adapt to it as a blind person would. The pattern of the keyboard with its alternating flats and sharps, may have made learning the piano a little easier than the challenges of other instruments. This keyboard pattern allowed Oliver to get a feel for the location of the notes.

Oliver has always attended public school, but he attended a magnet school early on that allowed him to concentrate on music. He now attends Harrison School of the Arts as an 18-year-old senior with a 4.18 GPA, where he continues to play piano. He likes to listen to a variety of music and is quick to admit that Classical is, “Ok.” He liked the band Queen when Freddie Mercury was the

lead singer and other music from the 1980’s, and he’s also a fan of Michael Jackson, pointing out his talents with Thriller. He has perfect pitch which gives him the ability to play a song after hearing it enough times and figuring out the notes. Right now he’s working on Ballade, a piece by Samuel Barber.

Back in November, Oliver had to arrange a Christmas piece for his ensemble class at Harrison. He chose to do Sleigh Ride, arranging the work for eight hands. Oliver said, “My teacher was so impressed with it, and the other students liked it so much, that it was featured as the piano number for our “Music of the Seasons Concert.” Currently, he is working on an arrangement of “Singing in the Rain” for piano and soprano for the Polk County school board.

Oliver’s most recent accomplishment, which seems to have given him celebrity status – at least at Harrison, was being selected as the co-winner of the Very Special Arts Florida (VSAFL) Young Soloist competition. VSA Florida provides arts, education and cultural opportunities for and by people with disabilities. It is headquartered at the University of South Florida and is a member of the international network of VSA, which is an affiliate of the John F. Kennedy Center of the Performing Arts. For more information and to see VSA’s very active calendar, you can visit their website at www.vsafl.org They also boast an impressive list of accomplishments for the past year, including: 220 different programs in 63 countries and 22,435 students with disabilities participating in programs.

Although the competition is for people who are disabled, Oliver is very quick to point out that he doesn’t consider himself disabled. The competition consists of three recorded pieces that each contestant submits for judging. The judging team is made up of various college faculty members, and Oliver believes one of the judges was from the University of South Florida.

Oliver learned of the competition through an e-mail from the Director of the Arts at the Polk County School Board forwarded to him by his piano teacher. He’d never heard of the competition, but he thought he’d give it a try. The pieces Oliver sent in for the competition included Gershwinn’s Second Prelude, Frank Schubert’s Impromptu No. 3 and Mozart’s Second Movement of Mozart’s sonata, K-280. Oliver described the Romantic period composer Franz Schubert’s Impromptu No. 3 saying, “It has a nice melody on top and a nice accompaniment. It’s probably

my favorite in piano literature.” In addition, Oliver was also selected as one of two contestants to give opening performances for the Florida Orchestra in St. Petersburg’s Vinoy Park. Although he doesn’t know the number of contestants, since it was for the State of Florida, he’s sure there were at least several. And because he was selected as the winner for the Florida VSA competition, he’ll now be competing nationally in Washington, D. C. at a future date to be determined.

Oliver has already been accepted for admission to both Stetson University and Florida State University, and is quick to clarify that he’s only been accepted to the college. He’ll still have to audition for the respective music programs. He’s leaning toward Stetson University and ultimately would like to major in Elementary Music Education. He likes the idea of attending a smaller school with smaller class sizes. The prospect of having more interaction with the teachers is most appealing. And not unlike many high school seniors looking for a college education, when I asked why not attend a local college like Florida Southern or maybe even the University of South Florida, Oliver said, “I’d just like to go away from home.” Sound familiar? Sounds like someone may be ready to expand their horizons.

Oliver believes he’d like to teach music when he graduates from college. He said, “In elementary school, there just wasn’t enough of an emphasis on music as I think there should be, at least not at my elementary school. Music was mostly reading song books. I want to try to make things different.”

Oliver has other interests. “When I visit my grandparents in Michigan and Colorado each summer, I really like to spend time outside hiking. There’s a lot more woods and nature in Michigan and Colorado than in Florida, or at least this part of Florida. And I like to watch Tru TV.” He’s also interested in radios that operate on different frequencies – like walkie talkies and such. He also likes computers and learning about

new technological advances. Over the summer, he worked at Sykes Call Center taking apart computers. He also enjoys nature; just being outside.

One other hobbie Oliver likes is maps and roads. He has always been interested as to where certain highways go in the United States and what towns they go through. Oliver said, “Sometimes, I look up interstates or United States highways on Google just to see where they go.” Sounds like a great curiosity for a young man.

Just a few weeks ago in his Art Appreciation class, students watched an A&E Biography on Amadeus Mozart and the movie Amadeus from the 1980s. He saw how Motzart got involved in drinking and drugs and how it really destroyed him, and at a relatively young age. So Oliver has taken that as a lesson - he’s not going to allow himself to get caught up in destructive behaviors. He composes music also. He composed his first work at age nine, so the Mozart lesson really spoke to him to just keep the course, stay focused on music and pursue his own dream.

When asked if there was anything he really wanted to say to people through this story, Oliver said, “If you’re blind, or have any kind of handicap at all, don’t let it get in the way of life. If you have a dream, pursue it. If you’re interested in something, then go for it. Don’t let anyone tell you that’s it’s not

going to help you. So many times I’ve been to concerts and I’ve seen parents say, ‘I wish my child was involved in music.’ But if you have to wish for it, maybe that’s not what you’re child wants, like sports or something. Don’t let anyone tell you that it’s not going to pay off or be beneficial. Who knows, maybe that’s your calling in life.”

As we finished our time together, I asked Oliver if he’d play for me. He sat at a piano just outside the office at Harrison and played the Schubert’s Impromptu No. 3. It was wonderful. And as I was leaving the school, a News Channel 8 reporter and her cameraman were walking in to see Oliver. No doubt his celebrity status may last just a little while longer.

We’d like to wish you the best of luck at the National VSA competition. We know you will represent our community well.

Feature» MattheW oLiver

January 2011 thefocusmagazine.com16 FOCUS Magazine lakeland January 2011FOCUS Magazine lakeland January 2011January 2011 thefocusmagazine.com16

the lakeland area Chamber of Commerce is

preparing to pass the gavel for 2010, and this

time, alice hunt will take over as Chairman.

hunt has lived in lakeland since she was in high

school, although her roots go much deeper. she

is a fi fth generation lakelander who really has a

heart for making lakeland a better community.

she and her husband have spent many years and

countless hours building their own successful

business and believe she knows what it will take

to lead the lakeland chamber through one of the

toughest economic times in history. I recently

had an opportunity to meet hunt and get to know

her a little better.

AliCe hunt BeComes only the third femAle to fill ChAirmAn role

lakeland Chamber may Be a little

Pink

for 2010

photos By: BIlly FrIend


Focus: Are you from Lakeland?

Hunt: I am. I wasn’t born in Lakeland, I was born in West Palm Beach. My father was in the army and we spent a short time there. My mother is fourth generation and I am the fifth to make Lakeland home.

Focus: Tell me about your family.

Hunt: My great, great grandfather came to Lakeland in a covered wagon. He bought a lot of property between Lake Hollingsworth and Lake Morton. The family donated quite a bit of property to the city later because they did not realize that the grass grew so fast here. My great, great grandfather wanted to grow oranges, but he was a peanut farmer by trade. When he found out that the land was so sandy, he stuck to growing peanuts. My grandparents had an insurance business on Orange Street just down from the Lakeland Center. My mother grew up running around downtown. Her brother has been an art teacher in Polk County for almost 40 years and is recognized at Harrison School of the Arts gallery, the Joe P. Mitchell Gallery. My father was in the military so we traveled the world until he retired in Lakeland. I am married to Lakelander Chuck Hunt and we have three children. Our son Neil has his masters degree from the University of Florida in aerospace engineering. His is presently teaching at the Aerospace Academy with Kathleen High School. He is the entire math department. Our daughter, Alyssa recently graduated from Southeastern University. She is a soccer player and is now coaching at All Saints Academy. Our youngest daughter Abby is a hair stylist at Studio 323 in downtown Lakeland. She has an adorable 3-year-old daughter.

Focus: You work with your husband in construction. How is that working out?

Hunt: I started out teaching elementary school. Chuck operated the construction company. As our business grew we made decisions on the side of quality and customer care. Chuck chose to supervise the jobs himself with his own crews to ensure the quality he expected for each job. I slipped into the business doing office management and customer care as well as marketing. Chuck has been in business 30 years and is licensed for residential and commercial new construction, as well as residential and commercial remodeling. His specialty is historic renovation. He is a talented wood artisan and has an incredible design process.

Focus: How is your business faring?

Hunt: We are doing well. Doing more with less as is most everyone. We are a service focused company, which is important when you work on projects that start as a dream for a customer. Many of our customers are

second and third time buyers, doing both commercial and residential work or remodels and additions on homes we previously built. We build relationships and remain friends. Chuck has gone into homes ten years later to change light bulbs. That is what business is really about.

Focus: As incoming Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce, tell me about your community involvement prior to this year.

Hunt: I’ve always loved Lakeland and the people who live here. This is a generous and benevolent community. I am in the community a lot, marketing our business, but when my children were in school I spent much time volunteering in the classroom. My daughter’s senior year I received a county Volunteer of the Year Award and she had opportunity to introduce me at a graduation program. She introduced me jokingly, I think, as stalker of the year. But I have participated with Paint Your Heart Out, the American Heart Association, The Freedom Center and many political and educational

committees with the Polk County Builders Association and the Florida Homebuilders Association. We also have many Future Builder of America clubs throughout the state and Hunt Construction has sponsored the club at George Jenkins High School for years. I have always participated in chamber activities; it offers so many networking opportunities. I am a graduate of Leadership Lakeland class 17 and joined the chamber board five years ago.

Focus: What plans do you have for your year as chairman?

Hunt: Kathleen Munson, chamber President, told me that it is funny how every incoming chairman and their special niche or talents are perfect for the time period they serve. We are a small business and we are also in the construction business, which has been hit really hard by the economy. So I feel I have a responsibility to focus on business success and economic opportunity. I hope to share the member benefits the chamber offers. I understand how difficult it is for

small business owners to get the time to get out and network and seek the help they need. The chamber offers so many programs and opportunities for business improvement. It is a matter of getting the word out…we are here for you! It is as important to get the message out that we must Buy Lakeland. We can keep our sales tax dollars local to support our colleges and keep businesses open if we buy locally. I will always be passionate about education as well. It is a no brainer that if you can raise the education level in a community that there will be more money to spend, more homes built. And statistics show that when people own homes, they volunteer in their community, there is less crime, and graduation rates increase. Every college, university and education facility in our community is engaged with the businesses and the chamber. We are excited that this year, Dr. Sheri Nickell, superintendent of Polk County schools will be joining the board. And finally, I think we still need to work with our neighboring communities. There are so many great things happening outside our community that we need to support and work with. Legoland will open this year and the University of South Florida Polytechnic school will soon break ground. Both will be good for Lakeland as well.

Focus: What are some of the biggest challenges for the chamber this year?

Hunt: Membership.. I think 2011 is going to be a difficult year. We are very blessed to have a Mayor who loves the chamber and has economic opportunity on his mind. Kathleen and her staff are amazing. The board is engaged and understands. It is a matter of working together to get through this.

Focus: I understand you are only the third woman to fill the role of chairman?

Hunt: Yes, but Lakeland does seem to be turning pink this year. The new hospital administrator is female, Dr. Thompson. The new Police Chief is female, Lisa Womack. And of course, Dr. Sheri Nickell, the new Superintendent of Schools is female. All of our college presidents are female. I am honored to be in company such as this.

As you can see, Hunt is experienced, and has the experience necessary to help lead the Lakeland chamber through this tough economy. She is full of energy. Her dedication to her company and the Lakeland community has paid off; she’s helped to keep her company busy during slow economic times and establish herself as someone who understands the struggles of small business and what it takes to stay in business. There’s no doubt her experience will help in her new role as Chairman. We wish you the best of luck in your new role.


extra » aL reucheL

Big Al’s Budget ChAllengeI know you’ve heard a lot of political leaders

complain about government not living within its means and over spending. 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 Armagedon.

“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. 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 girl friend 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.

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 a “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 hair cuts 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 of 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.

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.

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?

Written By: al reuChel

“take the same amount of money you made last year and use it to cover all your

expenses this year.”


Choosing who to follow in 2011

extra » derek MauL

two years ago I started my first blog. The eponymous site is an on-line journal, where people look over my

shoulder and read what’s going on with my life.

I’ve posted over 600 entries to date, around five new items per week. The experiment has generated some interest, somewhere around 1,000 hits every month. You can check it out if you’re interested - just log in via DerekMaul.com and click on “Today’s Blog Entry.”

My blog features great photographs, plus some of my best writing – the same kind of content presented on this page. But it’s a journal, so most people don’t even bother

to take the first look. The sites people go to in droves tend to feature scandal, controversy, juicy gossip, famous people or writing of more topical interest.

Well, I’m not that interested in negatives. But it does make sense to write about topics that generate attention. So I scratched my head and came up with a subject I’m well qualified to address but may well raise a few eyebrows. The new blog is called, “The Preacher’s Husband;” you can find it at www.preachershusband.blogspot.com.

Bingo! I had more hits in the first couple of days than I’d hoped for in a month. It turns out that people are interested in what it means for a guy to be married to the

pastor of a church.

To tell the truth, I’d like to have known the answer to that question back when Rebekah and I started dating. But, occasional incidents of prejudicial thinking and lapses into male chauvinism aside, the overwhelming weight of my experience has been positive. I’ve been married to a preacher for close to three decades – and I have the stories to prove it!

No stereotype:

Probably the best thing about the preacher’s husband gig is the absence of stereotypical expectations. Simply put, people don’t have preconceptions regarding

what I’m supposed to do: there is no well-worn path to follow.

We may be in Twenty-first Century, but I still talk with ministers’ wives who say they’re expected to, “Play the piano, teach Sunday-school, run the women’s group, clean the church kitchen, organize Vacation Bible School and be their husband’s secretary.”

Not so for yours truly - because nobody knows quite what to expect from the preacher’s husband. True, I am excluded from invitations directed to “ministers and their wives”, but the beauty of not occupying a culturally pre-assigned role is the freedom it gives me to simply follow Jesus.

My mother-in-law, Nell Alexander, gave me this advice when Rebekah was called to her first church. “Derek: love the Lord, love the preacher, love the people. If you get that right, everything else should fall into place.”

The other thing she said was, “If the preacher brings home extra folk for dinner unannounced, you can always cope by cooking extra biscuits.”

My freedom has given me pause. So much of what we do in life, cradle to grave, happens under the unyielding scrutiny of social norms. Many of these standards have less to do with what is “right”, or “Christian” than they have to do with what has become de rigueur for North American culture.

That’s why neither my wife nor I complain about the challenges of our non-standard life. Everything we’ve done, from my years as stay-at-home dad to her position as senior pastor at a vibrant church, has been free from the strictures of cultural stereotype.

The apostle Paul put it this way: “If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the universe, why do you live as if you still belonged to the world? Why do you submit to regulations?” (Colossians 2:20).

It’s a good question for this New Year.

- DEREK

Written By: derek maul


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Business proFiLe» oxygen express

oxygen exPress Written By: Brent sImmons

oxygen exPress

147 ave. a, se WInter haven, Fl 33880 863-293-0000 WWW.oxygenexPress.Com

like most independent, locally owned businesses Romie Campbell and team at Oxygen Express, a medical equipment

supplier in Polk County for over 5 years, competes on service. They provide quality service that really is personal, because the owners live here. In many cases like Romie, they grew up here, and they know they are caring for someone’s grandmother or father. They also have to look for new services to grow their businesses, and that is how Romie met Debbie Nelson.

Debbie Nelson, Certified Mastectomy / Orthotic Fitter, is native to Polk County, but followed her husband’s job to South Florida, where 21 years ago she started fitting mastectomy patience with prosthetic products. She is passionate about what she does and the care she gives each woman. “The first thing I was told was that I had to be a people person. Everyone that comes to you is not feeling well, and you have to listen. I love what I do. It is important work. A right fitting means the difference between being comfortable, or not. When customers leave our visit feeling uplifted is how I

measure success,” Debbie said.

When her husband retired, they returned to Polk County so they would be closer to their grandson. Debbie wanted to immediately offer her 21 years in the fitting business to the women of Polk County. She started by looking up some of the medical equipment businesses she remembered. Her quest took her to downtown Winter Haven, but the business she was looking for wasn’t there anymore. As she was leaving she saw Oxygen Express and went in to talk with Romie. He was looking for new ways to serve the community and she was looking for just such a place.

What this means to us, especially Breast Cancer patients, diabetics, and folks in need of orthosis braces, is that Oxygen Express now does all this, as well their full line of medical equipment. Debbie’s compassion, professionalism and 21 years experience combined with the Oxygen Express team’s dedication to providing great customer service means we all have a locally owned resource for these needs.

“Mastectomy prosthetic devices should be

comfortable, natural and fashionable. A lot of the fitting is getting the weight and balance correct. A correctly fitting prosthesis should not feel heavy,” Debbie explained. “It is the same with diabetic shoes and orthosis braces. The fit is critical, and we are proud that we can do heat molding and adjust braces onsite,” Romie added before continuing, “I am so glad to have Debbie here. Her experience is unmatched and the feedback from the community has been incredible.

What she brings to the table is so important and needed in Polk County, especially for women who have had mastectomies.”


extra » auto revieW

solid, stABle And roomy 2011 traverse deLivers

In 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 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 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 filled 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.

suBMitted By: BrIan West


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the ChoP shoPFor this month’s dining profile, we at

FOCUS took the recommendation of a friend and paid a visit to the Chop

Shop in Lakeland. For the reputation of pub-fare food, we thought it would be interesting to give it a try.

Stepping off the busy street of Kentucky Avenue and into the bar, the inside is spacious and colorful. Big cushy booths line the walls and the owner’s art pieces line the walls, along with biker décor.

We met up with Ty and Abby, owners of the Chop Shop. Residents of Lakeland may recognize Ty as the owner of the Scooter’s Skin Art tattoo parlor on S. Florida Ave., and Abby as the food director for the local Salvation Army. They moved together to Lakeland when their daughter was born and in December 2006 opened the doors of the Chop Shop for the first time. With its success comes a new location in another part of Lakeland in the near future.

What sets the Chop Shop apart? “Our food. Abby’s an amazing chef, for one thing. Our food is like standard bus-fare, except way better,” said Ty. “We pretty much make everything fresh - even our dressings. Our soups. Our patties, we hand-make… What we try to do is keep the food quality really high, even though we’re kind of low-brow.”

The Blue Suede World Famous Burger is char-grilled and cooked to order. It comes with lettuce, tomato, pickles, blue cheese crumbles, and a fried onion ring right inside the burger. Abby explained how they get the bread for their burgers (and for everything else) fresh daily from a local baker that they finally decided upon having the quality of bread they were looking for. “Our burgers were [already] over the top, but now that we’ve added the fresh baked bread…” she said, shaking her head. The burger is about four inches tall. The freshness of the bread presented itself even before I bit into it, as it pressed down with

entertainMent » dining revieW

Written By: John ross

the ChoP shoPs’ Bounty oF delICIous gruB! Photo by Tony Cartagena

the ChoP shoP

the ChoP shoP Is FamIly-orIented and they host lIve entertaInment on the FIrst FrIday oF every month. (863) 603-4040126 s. kentuCky ave.lakeland, Fl 33801

ease to fit it into my mouth. The beef quality was incredible. The bread was doughy and warm. I almost didn’t want to use ketchup for fear of masking the beef taste.

We also tried their Chop Shop Wings. I have to give this restaurant two trump cards, the first for pre-mentioned burger, and the other for these wings. If you want to open up a wing shack in downtown Lakeland, be filled

rockaBiLLy FLavor in the heart oF LakeLand

with despair - these wings have already pole vaulted so high into the highest echelons of Wingdom that I almost regretted sipping my soda beforehand for lack of not being able to fit more wings in my stomach. These wings are unreal- a huge amount of meat so tender you could almost push a straw through it. The custom house-made Pirate Wing sauce is unique enough that I can’t associate it with anything else, but it must be tried. It’s tangy and mild with seasonings. The wings are served with blue cheese and celery.

Abby brought us the Burrito Grande filled with chicken (you can choose beef ), lettuce, tomatoes, refried black beans, and shredded cheese. It’s topped with Queso and Mesi-Ranch sauce, and garnished with nachos. I won’t say this is the best burrito I’ve ever had, or that it is as good as the above two entrees, but it was good. It is, however, the biggest burrito I’ve ever seen. It made the Homewrecker at Moe’s Southwest Grille look like a Taco Bell Cheese Roll-Up. It was so big that I stared at it for 15 seconds with utensils in hand, brainstorming about how to go about eating it.

We also had the Cheeseburger Soup, which tastes just as it sounds - delicious!The Chop Shop is family-oriented and they host live entertainment on the first Friday of every month. Make it a point to visit soon.


lAkelAnd caLendaroF events

entertainMent » event caLendar

if you have an upcoming event and would like us to add it to our calendar of events, please email the information to:

editorial@fl oydpublications.com

mondAy, JAn 17» MLK Day of Service 20119:15AM-1:00PMCecil Gober VillasFor more information cal 863-688-8551

wednesdAy, JAn 19» An Evening with Mark LowrySoutheastern University presents An Evening with Mark Lowry at the Polk Th eatre on Jan. 19 at 7:30PM., followed by a VIP reception afterward.

thursdAy, JAn 20Business After HoursWaller Construction, Inc.5:30 to 7:30 PM at 1065 S Florida Ave.,Lakeland, FL 33803(863) 688-8551

sundAy, JAn 23» Toastmasters Club #2262 50th Anniversary PartyCelebrating 50 years as a club. Informative and networking event with select Toastmasters speaking. A short version of our regular meeting event will be presented. Refreshments available.Directions:Florida Southern College, Nina B. Hollis Wellness Ctr., Th rift Alumni Room on 2nd fl oor, parking nearby. 2:30 - to 4:30 PM 863-944-3182

tuesdAy, JAn 25» Hats O� ! To Chamber Members8:00AM-1:00PM

Florida Technical CollegeVolunteering for Hats Off ! off ers you a unique opportunity to visit businesses as a Chamber representative while still promoting your company

» Snowbird Extravaganza9:00 AM to 4:30 PMTh is fun-fi lled event includes hundreds of exhibits, keynote speakers, interactive feature areas, and world-class entertainment at Th e Lakeland Center.

thursdAy, JAn 27» Score Business Roundtable7:30 - 8:30AMLakeland Chamber of Commerce

wednesdAy, feB 9» Ribbon Cutting- Big Cypress Golf Club10:30AM10000 US Highway 98 N

sAturdAy, feB 19» American Cancer Society - Cattle Baron’s Ball6:00 - 11:00 PM Th e American Cancer Society’s Cattle Baron’s Ball is a “denim and diamonds’ event that will host guests for an evening of dining, dancing, great music, gaming, entertainment, auctions, and other special attractions. Come celebrate our 10th Cattle Baron’s Ball Fundraiser and participate in the Biggest Birthday Party in Polk County. Reservations are required. 4641 Hancock Ave. Highland City, FL 33846

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January 2011 thefocusmagazine.com28 FOCUS Magazine lakeland January 2011

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