FOCUS South Tampa 02-08

Habitat Hillsborough to Build Homes and Hope at 4th Annual Suzie Q Blitz Build

Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County Florida, Inc. thanks the generous sponsors and volunteers who have made this build possible, including: Citi, Lowe’s, Regency Centers, Nancy Slade, the Nu Nu Chapter of Sigma Phi Gamma Sorority, the Sheraton Riverwalk, and Olive Garden. Donations and breakfast, lunch, and dinner are still needed! Please contact Kathy Brogli, Community Relations Director, at 813.239.2242 to arrange a donation.

About Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County Florida, Inc.

Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County Florida, Inc., in partnership with God, mobilizes people to help neighbors by renovating and building homes, thereby improving and transforming families and communities. At Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County Florida, Inc., our focus is on showing the love of God to first-time homebuyers and families in Hillsborough County by giving them a hand up, not a hand out. Habitat homebuyers must donate 300 “Sweat Equity” hours, be able to assist with closing costs, and make monthly mortgage payments. Habitat homes are sold to our homeowners at no profit with a no-interest mortgage.

We invite donors and volunteers from all walks of life to come together with our future homeowners to build relationships and to realize dreams. Since 1987, Habitat Hillsborough has built more than 135 safe, affordable homes in partnership with hard-working families and the community. Together we BUILD HOMES...BUILD LIVES...BUILD HOPE.

Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County Florida, Inc. will build two homes in one week during the 2011 Suzie Q Blitz Build. The Piper and Murphy families have partnered with Habitat Hillsborough for the 4th Annual build for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The homes, built by volunteers from the community, as well as the partner families,will be the second and third homes in Providence Pointe, Habitat Hillsborough’s newest neighborhood. Construction will commence with a Wall Raising ceremony on Saturday, October 15 at 9:00 am.

“During this time of change and adversity in our county, we are grateful for supporters who give of their time and energy to help us build houses in order for a family to make their home, create hope and awareness for a cure, to empower those in our lives who are in the midst of cancer treatment and to honor and celebrate the strength of those who have gone before us,” said Brian Hastings, Habitat Hillsborough’s Executive Director. “Because of the generosity of these wonderful volunteers, staff, donors and event sponsors, we are able to serve our partner families and contribute to the community.”

The Suzie Q Blitz Build is in memory of Suzanne Hastings, who endured breast cancer, and in 2008 passed away surrounded by her loving family and friends. The build celebrates her and all breast cancer patients who are examples of living a full life and their love of helping others.

Each year, Habitat Hillsborough hosts a “Survivor Day” on the Friday of the blitz build. Breast cancer survivors are invited to volunteer on Friday, October 21, and share their stories of perseverance and growth in our “Courage and Hope” tent. Suzie Q Blitz Build participants are also encouraged to share their stories and pictures of those they wish to honor.

Volunteers are needed to make the blitz build a success! Register to volunteer and create a fundraising page at www.FirstGiving.com/HabitatHillsborough suzieq2011.com. Contact Yvonne Meredith, Volunteer Coordinator, at 813.239.2242 for more information.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Habitat Hillsborough to Build Homes and Hope at 4th Annual Suzie Q Blitz Build Volunteers will construct two homes in one week (Oct. 15-22) for Breast Cancer Awareness

TAMPA, FL September 16, 2011 – October 15-22, Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County

Florida, Inc. will build two homes in one week during the 2011 Suzie Q Blitz Build. The Piper and

Murphy families have partnered with Habitat Hillsborough for the 4th Annual build for Breast Cancer

Awareness Month. The homes, built by volunteers from the community, as well as the partner families,

will be the second and third homes in Providence Pointe, Habitat Hillsborough’s newest neighborhood.

Construction will commence with a Wall Raising ceremony on Saturday, October 15 at 9:00 am.

“During this time of change and adversity in our county, we are grateful for supporters who give of their

time and energy to help us build houses in order for a family to make their home, create hope and

awareness for a cure, to empower those in our lives who are in the midst of cancer treatment and to

honor and celebrate the strength of those who have gone before us,” said Brian Hastings, Habitat

Hillsborough’s Executive Director. “Because of the generosity of these wonderful volunteers, staff, donors

and event sponsors, we are able to serve our partner families and contribute to the community.”

The Suzie Q Blitz Build is in memory of Suzanne Hastings, who endured breast cancer, and in 2008

passed away surrounded by her loving family and friends. The build celebrates her and all breast cancer

patients who are examples of living a full life and their love of helping others.

Each year, Habitat Hillsborough hosts a “Survivor Day” on the Friday of the blitz build. Breast cancer

survivors are invited to volunteer on Friday, October 21, and share their stories of perseverance and

growth in our “Courage and Hope” tent. Suzie Q Blitz Build participants are also encouraged to share

their stories and pictures of those they wish to honor.

Volunteers are needed to make the blitz build a success! Register to volunteer and create a fundraising

page at www.FirstGiving.com/HabitatHillsborough/suzieq2011.com. Contact Yvonne Meredith, Volunteer

Coordinator, at 813.239.2242 for more information.

Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County Florida, Inc. thanks the generous sponsors and volunteers

who have made this build possible, including: Citi, Lowe’s, Regency Centers, Nancy Slade, the Nu Nu

Chapter of Sigma Phi Gamma Sorority, the Sheraton Riverwalk, and Olive Garden. Donations and

breakfast, lunch, and dinner are still needed! Please contact Kathy Brogli, Community Relations Director,

at 813.239.2242 to arrange a donation.

About Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County Florida, Inc.

Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County Florida, Inc., in partnership with God, mobilizes people to

help neighbors by renovating and building homes, thereby improving and transforming families and

communities. At Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County Florida, Inc., our focus is on showing the

love of God to first-time homebuyers and families in Hillsborough County by giving them a hand up, not a

Contact:Kathy Brogli, Community Relations DirectorEmail: [email protected]: (813) 458-6468

Volunteers will construct two homes in one week (Oct. 15-22) for Breast Cancer Awareness

OctOber 2011 focussouthtampa.com4

tABLe oFCoNteNtS

Volume 2 Issue 8 • October 2011focussouthtampa.com

LICENSING OPPORTUNITYLicensed territories are available. We are looking to expand the family and are looking for motivated individuals to join our award winning team. If you are interested in owning your own Focus Magazine contact Mike Floyd at 813.707.8783 ext 26.

oN the CoVer

13HIDDEN HISTORYIf you’re a Tampa sports fan, this one is for you. We’ve compiled the history of Tampa’s favorite sports teams to show you where we’ve been, what we’ve done and where we’re going. Choose the history you like and support your Tampa teams.

10SPOTLIGHTHeartbeat International shares their passion for preventing Heart Disease through awareness and treating the less fortunate through free Pacemakers and lifelong treatment across the world. Learn about their newest upcoming event Over the Edge where participants will repel down a Downtown Tampa building in support of those living with Heart Disease. Learn about their cause and become a part of it.

16FEATUREDress for Success Tampa Bay opened up their store to FOCUS to share with the community how they help women get their feet in the door for new business opportunities. From resume tutorials, to mock interviews to clothes shopping, this Organization is preparing women for the business world.

oN the CoVer

ArtUro A patient of

Heartbeat International

ALL NeWFoCUSSoUthtAmPA.Com

Online Features Include:• Full digital version of the current and past magazines• Extended features, interviews, dining profi les and business profi les with extra content• Community news updates• New home of FOCUSTV

7EDITORIALTo pump our readers up before the Holiday season, our writers have compiled a mini Triathlon training schedule in the Better You column, and an overview of the Rotary Club’s gala to aid children with Heart Disease. Our newest column Get Fit provides encouragement and ideas from a certifi ed Sports Nutritionist to get you going in the right direction.

it’s not neWs, it’s liFe.

it’s about you.Have a Story to tell? We are always looking for a good story on people or organizations making a positive

diff erence in the community

- email us at: [email protected]

6LOCALSouth Tampa watercolorist Roxanne Tobaison explains her love for artwork, it’s meaning to her and the interpretation others give it. She is a self taught artist with award winning work just looking to share it with the community.

23DINING PROFILELooking for a place to have dinner tonight? We’ve given you two excellent options this month, but why not try both? Renzo’s Gourmet recently celebrated their 2nd year anniversary and served up delicious food to their faithful patrons. Read through their unique offerings and stop by for dinner. Rigatoni’s dishes out authentic Italian food in a home-cooked dinner environment. They have a ton to offer and it will leave you feeling connected to your family and theirs.

FOCUS Magazine SOUth taMpa OctOber 2011 5

Christina MusialEditor-in-Chief

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information.

www.focussouthtampa.com

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 [email protected]. The staff will fix the error in a timely manner.

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

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.

Publisher Jim Duke

Editor in chief Christina Musial

Advertising Director Harrison Tropp

Sales Sophia Hyde | Holly Farmer | Harrison Tropp

Production Anthony Sassano | Tony Cartagena

Photographers Ben Drummond

Staff Writers Christina Musial | Harrison TroppJodi Lokay

Contributors Al Ruechel | Kim Francis | Emery JonesTeal McKenzie | Rachel Drummond

My Husband and I recently drove to Chipley, Florida for my cousin’s wedding. If you’re anything like me, you probably don’t have the slightest idea where Chipley is. Now, we may have broken the speed limit a few times and made the drive in 5 ½ hours, which is pretty impressive. This amount of time alone in a car together allowed for some great bonding time. We talked for hours about our hopes, dreams, goals for this upcoming year, what we want our marriage and family to be, etc. It was just a great

exercise for us. Too often we get wrapped up in our busy lives and forget to talk about the futuristic stuff because the present has us so preoccupied. While we were driving we were marveling at how large the state of Florida is.

We took 2 interstates and an Expressway to get to our destination, passed through multiple counties and were close to the Florida-Georgia line more than once. We were wondering about how long it would take you to drive the perimeter of the whole Florida peninsula. While we tossed the idea around and threw some numbers out there I realized how much of this state I haven’t seen.

I have high hopes of travelling all over the place, but for the most part, my in-state travels involve stops at a few different cities and everything in between is either neglected due to great music or a great book. It’s never occurred to me to learn about the places I’m driving through. Then, I thought, I probably don’t know much about my city either.

I know I’ve brought this up before and you’re probably tired of hearing it, but South Tampa is full of some amazing people, organizations, and opportunities. This month, FOCUS dedicated the issue to Pre-Holiday Health and Fitness concepts. While we want you to know your city, we also want you to know yourself…who you are, how to be healthy, how to be better, and how to stay wonderful so you can contribute to the community.

We’ve included a mini Triathlon training in the Better You column and added a new monthly column titled Get Fit where our go-to Sports Nutrition Coach provides tips and ideas on how to be healthy. Our Spotlight this month is Heartbeat International who have a mission of providing Pacemakers to the less fortunate throughout the world, but are also dedicated to raising awareness of Heart Disease to everyone.

As a group here at FOCUS, we want to be better and more aware of who we are. We hope that this month’s issue inspires you to reexamine your health and what you can do to be better for YOU. Now is the best time to start!

Letter From the editor


Roxanne Tobaison is an accomplished watercolorist who sometimes uses her art for personal reflection. This was the

case when she painted “Out of the Ashes .. a New Resolve.”

Tobaison remembers, “The week of 9/11 was traumatic for us all. My way of coping that week was to paint.” Like most of us, she

needed some distraction from the tragic news. We all needed a release for anger, sadness, and frustration at feeling helpless. We needed some hope.

“Later,” Tobaison explained, “a neat story unfolded that involved the painting. At a Ruskin gallery exhibition a corporate representative purchased it as a gift for

their convention speaker whose speech, unbeknownst to the purchaser, was titled – Out of the Ashes! The speaker was a Wall Street stockbroker, so this painting had special meaning to him.”

That’s one of the most beneficial things about artwork. It speaks to different people in different ways, as if it’s always alive and

evolving. And most notably, it can help people and nations heal.

Tobaison has lived in Brandon for more than 36 years after moving from Tampa, where she graduated from Chamberlain High School. She was born in Mississippi and adopted. She and her husband Jim have two grown daughters who live locally and a “granddog”, too. “As a self-taught artist, I thank God for the ability He has given me,” said Tobaison. She describes her style as “representational and predictable, but nonetheless a distinct form of artwork.” She also credits numerous local instructors and peers for sharing techniques and influencing her art. In particular, she said, “My first instructor Leona Towle, an oil painter, was very instrumental in getting me started. Also, Jo Tarabula, previously from Ruskin, was my first watercolor teacher.”

The artist thoroughly enjoys her artist friends and community. “I belong to the Old Hyde Park Art Center and have been involved with the Brandon League of Fine Arts since 1979. She also volunteers with Center Place Fine Arts & Civic Association and maintains memberships in The Greater Brandon Arts Council, Tampa Regional Artists, Hillsborough County Visual Arts Alliance, and the National League of American Penwomen.

Of her award-winning work, which is displayed in numerous corporate and private collections around the state, Tobaison said, “I love the freedom it allows, to be able to paint what I love and be appreciated by people. It’s very rewarding emotionally.”

She continued, “I never tire of doing my painting and find that I am more inspired every day. Most of my subjects are near and dear to me. I feel that my artwork is more than paint and paper - it’s a way of life and expression. Since 1979, I have gone through this process of reflecting the life and beauty of my surroundings. In addition, living in Florida almost all of my life has afforded me a never-ending amount of reference material. I love the Historical Landmarks of the Tampa Bay Area, the wildlife, birdlife and Florida scenes. I have tried over the years to complete at least one local landmark scene a year.”

As to the future, Tobaison said, “I really don’t see much difference in the years ahead as I love what I do and will continue and hopefully improve.”

To view her work online, visit www.artgally.com/roxanne or www.watercolorsNmore.etsy.com.

LocaL» Focus

RoxAnne ToBAiSon out oF the ashes WatercoLor commemorates 9/11

story by: CheRyl JOhnstOn

“Out of the Ashes, a new Resolve” was painted by award-winning watercolor artist Roxanne tobaison the week of 9/11 in 2001 as her way of coping with the national tragedy.


A Better YOU!

TIPS FOR YOUR FIRST TRIATHLON

Go short- distance that is, I am a bigger is better kinda girl, but you are definitely going to want to go short for your first tri.

Stay close to home- the Tampa Bay area has tons of local triathlons to choose from. Check out the upcoming local triathlons in the Tampa Bay area.

A swimsuit that stays put and goggles you have tested before. Your bike is fine, no need to spend thousands of dollars on a new bike

until you know its something you are going to enjoy and be able to commit to.

A good pair of running shoes.

Week Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun

1 Bike & strength

Run

30 min Strength &

swim Run

30 min Rest

Run

30 min

Bike

60 min

2 Run

30 min Strength &

swim Run

30 min Bike &

strength Rest Walk

60 min

Run

35 min

3 Strength & swim

Run

35 min

Bike

60 min Run &

strength Rest Run

40 min

Walk

60 min

4 Run

30 min Strength &

swim Run

30 min Bike &

strength Rest Run

45 min

Bike

70 min

5 Strength & swim

Run

40 min Bike &

strength Run

30 min Rest

Run

50 min

Walk

60 min

6 Run

30 min Strength &

swim Run

30 min Bike &

strength Rest Walk

60 min

Bike

80 min

7 Strength & swim

Run

45 min

Bike

60 min Run &

strength Rest Run

55 min

Walk

60 min

8 Run

30 min Strength &

swim Run

30 min Bike &

strength Rest Run

60 min

Bike

90 min

Suncoast Triathlon Saturday October 22nd—Ft Desoto Park Race for the Booty Triathlon & Dualthon Sunday October 30th—Safety Harbor, Florida 5150 Clearwater/Series Finale Saturday November 12th—Clearwater, Florida

The best thing about a triathlon is carb loading!!!!

The sport of Triathlon is an event made up of three separate sports: swimming, cycling and running. And of these, only two warrant the shaving of body hair: swimming and cycling. The benefits are physical and psychological: physically removing body hair enhances ones speed in the water by reducing the resistance or drag existing hair may cause. Psychologically, shaving gives the swimmer a slippery feeling in the water. Cyclists are also known for having shaved legs. And of all the reasons I have heard why cyclists shave their legs, the one that makes the most sense to me is for medicinal/healing purposes. There is no dirty or oily hair to get into road rash abrasions…should your body ever come into contact with the asphalt.

Honeymoon Island Clearwater Beach Sand Key Beach Madeira Beach St Pete Beach Ft Desoto Beach

great websites that offer free training schedules for what-ever level and race you want to compete at

http://www.trinewbies.com/index.asp http://www.beginnertriathlete.com/ Here is an example of an 8-week training schedule for a sprint triathlon

Swimming gives you sculpted arms but straw like hair, chlorine is the culprit. Give thirsty hair a shot of moisture twice a week. Look for conditioners with specific ingredients that will moisturize and strengthen your hair.

BY: Angela Hall

A triathlon is a sport event involving the completion of continuous and sequential endurance events. Triathlons involve swimming, , and running in succession over various distances. With each sport being an endurance event training for a triathlon provides tremendous cardiovascular exercise benefits not to mention the benefits you'll see in your drive, competiveness and your rear-end in those skinny jeans.

a better you » Focus


throughout the course of our publication, the staff of FOCUS Magazine- South Tampa has been overwhelmed by the

inspirational stories of our community’s charitable outreach. From small condensed causes to national galas, Tampa offers no shortage of simple kindness. Debuting in last month’s issue, our editors have decided to dedicate a column each month, highlighting a particular event, organization, or cause, as a way to promote charity and encourage our readers to do the same. While the amount of organizations is seemingly endless, each one possesses its own uniqueness, and most importantly, passion to help others.

For the month of October, I was given the opportunity to include an editorial on the Gift of Life Groovy Gala, sponsored by the Interbay and Downtown Rotaries. The gala itself benefits the Gift of Life charity and will

be held on the evening of October 22, 2011.

Among the charitable organizations in Tampa Bay, the Rotary Club is a pronounced and developed organization in the area. The club’s roots have extended to various causes with a membership of many prominent Tampa businesspeople and activists. The charity itself has contributed to different causes throughout the year, with their upcoming gala benefiting children in need of cardiac treatment. The Gift of Life Groovy Gala will be held on October 22nd at the Mainsail Pavilion. The Gift of Life organization benefits children around the world in need of heart surgery and other medical related heart issues.

The Gift of Life funds medical projects in developing countries while simultaneously creating cardiac surgery programs to benefit children with heart disease. According to

their website, the care provided to these children is absolutely free. Other projects provide financial and logistical support to partner hospitals abroad through grants and medical equipment. The charity further teaches cardiac surgical techniques and health care management.

This year, the upcoming gala will benefit a hospital in Jamaica. According to Laura Webb, Chairwoman of the gala and Rotary member, “the Rotary clubs take pride in a variety of causes and perpetuates their motto, ‘service beyond self.’” According to Webb, all the money raised will be sent to the Jamaica which will pay for particular goods. “It costs approximately $5,000 for this surgery in Jamaica. That money goes to supply items such as bandages and gauze since most doctors donate their time” says Webb.

The Gift of Life Groovy gala will encompass ten restaurants from the Tampa Bay area, as well as wine and spirit vendors. For further information, their website provides an abundance of information regarding the gala and The Gift of Life Charity.

better commuNIty » Focus

“THe GifT of Life” GeTS GRoovyrotary cLubs host gaLa For chILdreN WIth heart dIsease story by: hARRisOn tROpp

Gift of life Gala813-802-9676www.rotarygiftofLife.com

Advertise with FOCUs

Get your business/organization in front of the community

Call or email us to learn more about advertising in FOCUS

Jim Duke 813-390-5526

[email protected]


Recently I came across the following quote in an article: “you are what you eat.” That quote got me thinking

about my own eating habits and the habits of many people I work with to help them achieve their fitness goals. More often than not, when someone expresses to me their difficulty with achieving their weight loss or body composition goals, we discover that they have not fully committed to changing their behavior when it comes to eating healthier.

Proper nutrition and exercise is more about changing your behavior than anything else. However, changing your behaviors and habits when it comes to eating healthier and utilizing supplemental nutrition is not easy for everyone. Make small healthy changes in your habits, then make them consistent, and those small changes become your healthy norm. Small changes in your habits can mean big results towards successfully reaching your fitness goals.

Here are some examples of small habit changes that I think make a huge impact:

1. A few days a week, instead of your shot of 5hour energy or coffee, get up early and start your day with some egg whites with multigrain toast or oatmeal.2. Stop guessing and write things down. Keep a food and exercise log to see if you are making progress, or cheating too much.

3. Join a running group or exercise class at your local gym. People will look forward to you coming and that can be a great motivator for you.4. Set goal objectives that start with “I will …” and commit to them, such as: “I will lose 2lbs per week,” “I will gain 2 lbs of muscle per week,” “I will eat 4-5 small meals per day,” “I will fit into those J Brand Skinny Jeans.” 5. Commit to someone other than yourself: your child, spouse, best friend, or lover. When we are accountable to someone else we are more likely to follow through.

Being healthy is a long-term commitment. It is human nature to look for the quick fix or the “magic pill.” When it comes to losing weight, gaining muscle, and being healthier there are no shortcuts or fast rides. Get off the rollercoaster and develop healthy habits that become normal habits that you will keep for the rest of your life. This way takes more discipline, hard work, and consistency, but it will last a lifetime and you’ll be happier with the results.

Fred Pressley, M.Ed., Esq., CSNC provides nutrition education for individuals, schools and groups and meets with clients at the local Max Muscle Sports Nutrition store in South Tampa at 1540 South Dale Mabry, Tampa, FL 33629.

get FIt » Focus

SmALL CHAnGeS = BiG ReSuLTSstory by: FRed pRessley, nestA CeRtiFied spORts nUtRitiOn COACh


Photo courtesy of Tampa General Hospital

PassionFor A

HEaRTBEaTHeartbeat International provides

Pacemakers and Lifetime Care

Written by Christina MusialPhotos courtesy of Heartbeat International

shown here is an x-ray of an implanted pacemaker...


Photo courtesy of Tampa General Hospital

spotLIght » heartbeat INterNatIoNaL

every day, we take for granted that the heart, one of the hardest working muscles in our bodies is pumping blood

to and from the heart in its intricate design/pattern. Unless it’s not working properly, we barely even notice it’s functioning until we get angry or emotionally distressed and it’s change in rhythm reminds us it’s pumping. Otherwise, it beats on its own with very little recognition and receives very little appreciation.

Unfortunately, there are people all over the world who did not awake to that luxury and they are already at a disadvantage because they are in poverty stricken countries where cardiovascular care is still developing and not nearly as accessible as in America. For these individuals, the passion of Heartbeat International has literally saved their lives. Heartbeat International is a Tampa based 501c3 non-profit organization with a cardiovascular specialty. Their mission: to provide Pacemakers and a lifetime of cardiovascular care to people around the world who could not otherwise afford it. Executive Vice-President of Heartbeat International, Laura DeLise is convinced their passion for their work coupled with their dedication to follow-up and long term care is what sets them apart as a non-profit medical organization.

Heartbeat International was started over 25 years ago as the result of a very enlightening moment between two Cardiologists. Dr. Federico Alfaro was a doctor in Guatemala treating a young patient for an issue called “Heart Block” in which the heartbeat continually slows until one day it just stops. This young man needed a Pacemaker to correct the issue; however he wasn’t able to afford one. Dr. Alfaro tried to raise funds for the boy, but was unsuccessful and watched his patient die. This experience stressed to Dr. Alfaro the need to help those requiring Pacemakers but without the adequate resources to acquire them.

Many years later, Dr. Alfaro was in the United States for specialized Cardiology training and was working under Dr. Henry McIntosh when they made rounds and met

with a patient in need of a Pacemaker. Dr. McIntosh turned to the students and told them to put in a Pacemaker by the end of the day, as if it was nothing. Dr. Alfaro was visibly upset and when confronted by Dr. McIntosh, he shared the story of the patient who died not being able to afford the Pacemaker.

Later, Dr. McIntosh went to Guatemala visit Dr. Alfaro who had since returned to his home country and they attended a Rotary Club Meeting together and someone associated with Intermedics, a large Pacemaker manufacturer was present and asked to help.

“Intermedics donated devices and the Rotary Club made a donation so doctors could buy the accessories that went with the devices. From that point on Heartbeat International was born. It wasn’t until years later that we became a 501c3 and formalized and became an official non-profit organization. But it was born of those 2 doctors and their desire to help the patient that did not have access to

the devices,” said DeLise.

Heartbeat International is made up of a network of Heart Centers where patients come for their initial health and economic screenings, scheduling and coordination with the doctor performing the surgery and for follow up care with their physician. Heart Centers are located in countries such as Guatemala, Pakistan, India, Trinidad, Barbados, and many others. “Currently we have 14 heart centers around the globe. At any time we go up and down in numbers. That’s’ because we have very strict requires as to what our heart centers have to comply to which is driven by the need to track all of our devices and all of our patients. One thing that we are committed to within our

relationship to the industry which produces the devices and donates them to us is we do the tracking of the devices. We also provide a lifetime of follow-up care to our patients,” said DeLise.

The beauty of this program is that these patients have access to cardiovascular care. Pacemakers require continual monitoring and maintenance which would not be received without the Heart Centers. “Our doctors who are in country have Pacemaker clinics where patients come back on a scheduled interval to have their health checked, their Pacemaker checked. We have some patients who are on their 3rd devices. And, we always are able to do that,” said DeLise.

To become a certified Heart Center receiving supplies and funds from Heartbeat International, a country has to put several things in place and meet a certain list of credentials. “In order to become official, they have to have the right doctors in place, the right clinics, and the right credentials. They have to show they have the right partnerships in place to make this work. It’s a tedious process, but one that’s necessary to ensure the health and safety of our patients,” said DeLise.

Many countries begin their Heart Center application based on physicians they met, programs they saw or were introduced to at the many annual meetings of the professional cardiology associations Heartbeat International belongs to. “We have the endorsement of the American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association, American Heart Rhythm Society, and all of the different professional societies that are within our field. We participate in their annual meetings as well. So, one way they can learn about us are through those. A lot of the international physicians who are able to come to America to our professional society meetings do,” said DeLise.

The range of patients helped through the work of Heartbeat International is very large and a testament to their commitment to help as many as possible. “We have implanted in a day old baby to a 90 year old grandparent. There’s no age discrimination, gender discrimination, there’s no religious or political, or any other kind of discrimination. Our mission is to help those in need in our

niche,” DeLise said.

The Heartbeat International program is widely successful because they use “In-Country” doctors to perform the services and manage the care of the patients. In most countries the program is managed mostly through physician referral. “Typically a patient will go to the public hospital and they’ll probably see a general practitioner, talk about their symptoms, run tests. If that doctor sees it’s a cardiovascular issue, there are different mechanisms for him to refer that patient. If it’s a Pacemaker that the patient needs, the hope is they will turn to Heartbeat International if the patient can’t’ afford the device,” DeLise said.

These “In-Patient” doctors are vital to the program. “We as a non-profit could not always guarantee that we would be able to make continual trips. Some of these patients come in monthly, every 6 months. It’s also important that they see the same doctor. That doctor gets to know the patient, their family. For us and our Pacemaker program it’s important that we have doctors in that country to oversee their care,” said DeLise. Knowing that it may not always be possible for a member of the Heartbeat International staff to travel to the Heart Centers, the Board of the organization has dedicated Directors who manage different areas. For example, there is a Director of the Western Hemisphere, one for the Eastern Hemisphere and one for the Caribbean Basin and a Worldwide Board of Directors available to oversee the global operations. As mentioned before, patients are screened for eligibility for the program. The requirements for care are quite simple. “Our two requirements are that the patient has the medical need and they are not able to afford it. That level of poverty is different in every country because every country has different standards of living. Our stand on if you meet the requirements is that you will become


indigent if pay for this treatment yourself, or you are already indigent. It’s very important to us, part of our mission, that we bring these people back to a situation where they can contribute to society. Obviously if we make them become indigent by buying the device, they won’t have the opportunity to it,” said DeLise.

Once a patient receives a Pacemaker and recovers from the surgery, the hope is that they will be able to get back into society and the community, contribute and do well, aspire to be more. “Our number one priority is to give them the medical care, but we also want to give them the opportunity. There was a Patient in Mexico who was 7 or 8 when he got his device. He lived in a little dirt floor hut. They were just getting by. His mother used to stay awake at night making sure his heart stayed beating. Fast forward, he’s a boy who plays soccer now; he goes to school with his friends. He continues to say that he wants to become a doctor so he can provide to his community what was given to him,” said DeLise.

Just recently, Heartbeat International was given a great honor which ensures they will be able to continue on with their mission for quite awhile. “Biotronic who is one of our largest, broadest supporters right now has said to Heartbeat International that they are only going to donate devices to us. This is a huge step for the industry and for us as a non-profit,” said DeLise.

What this means to Heartbeat International is that other doctors who take missions trips to other countries and implant Pacemakers into patients will need to coordinate with Heartbeat International to ensure those patients are able to receive follow-up care. Heartbeat International receives their devices from all four of the Major suppliers: Medtronic, St. Jude Medical, Boston Scientific and Biotronic. Currently Biotronic is the largest donor in terms of numbers; however, they recently received a very nice grant from St. Jude Medical to cover operational costs.

Over the Edge

As part of their existing program, Heartbeat International is hoping to very soon introduce a Global Cardiovascular Alliance which will allow them to do a bit more for those with needs in their specialty. One of the many additions will be a focus on Heart Disease Awareness.

In September, the UN is holding a summit

regarding non-communicable diseases. Heartbeat International hopes to be a large part of the push against these diseases. “We realize that we have to participate in that and we want to more broadly educate our patients locally and in the global community about cardiovascular disease. We are forming what we call the Global Cardiovascular Alliance. We have been in discussions with various other non-profit organizations, medical institutions, government around the world where we have basically gone to them and said this is our vision, mission. We want to create this Alliance and we want you to be a part of it where we can offer the whole spectrum of cardiovascular care,” said DeLise.

Through the Alliance, cardiovascular care and screening will be mainly focused on the International level. However, education will happen right here in America as well as overbroad. The goal is to make people aware of the effect Heart Disease has worldwide, how dangerous it is and how important it is to treat.

To kick off the creation of this Alliance and their new goal of awareness, Heartbeat International is hosting an event right here in Tampa Bay called Over the Edge.

Over the Edge is a rope access company based out of Nova Scotia Canada and has a goal and mission of helping non-profits raise funds for their cause. While they have shifted their focus into the USA, Tampa had never been a market for them. DeLise received a promotional email last year and presented it to the board. The Tampa Downtown Partnership loved the idea and have pledged their support to the event and Heartbeat International.

The Over the Edge event gives people who raise funds for Heartbeat International the opportunity to rappel down a building in Downtown Tampa. “Due to the height of the building and the rappel route, we will have

a maximum of 76 participants on Saturday the 19th. We are advertising 75. We will also have 10 special VIP/Media rappels the day prior to the event for the media to get a chance to get close-up coverage, but that is not part of the general, public event,” said Heartbeat International Marketing & Event Coordinator, Christine Conley.

Each participant is required to raise a $1,000 minimum. That combined with potential sponsorships, Heartbeat International has a goal of raising $100,000 from this event alone. “The funds raised from this event will help fund Heartbeat International’s Pacemaker Program, which provides

pacemaker devices and surgeries to indigent patients around the world, and to the enhancement of our heart health education, awareness, and training programs,” said Conley.

Should the event prove successful, there is potential for this to become an annual fundraiser in the Tampa Bay area. “If this event proves to be as successful as we hope (both as a fundraiser and as an awareness

campaign for HBI and cardiovascular disease), then yes, it could possibly turn into an annual event. However, as this is a first-year event for HBI and for Tampa Bay, we are not making any promises until this year’s event is complete and assessed,” said Conley.

Conley, along with a Dedicated Board Member and a few volunteers make up the Event Planning Committee for this event. While they are working diligently to make this event a success and get everything planned on the back end, more help will be needed in the days leading up to the actual event. “Moving forward, I am always looking for volunteer support, including

administration support leading up to the event. For the day of the event, it will be ‘all hands on deck’ with our staff and local Board helping out. We will also need 10-12 Rope Volunteers and at least 20 additional volunteers to help the event run smoothly. Our volunteer opportunities can be found on our website. For financial support, we are hoping to attract Tampa Bay businesses for our sponsorship opportunities, including the ‘Toss Your Boss’ sponsorships,” said Conley. This event should be quite exciting and get the attention of everyone involved. However, Conley, DeLise and Heartbeat International are hoping it will do more than just make for a great experience. “This event is not only a fundraiser for HBI but also an awareness event for the Tampa Bay community. We want Tampa Bay to be educated about cardiovascular disease, so we are partly doing this event to get the community’s attention. As such, we want the community to be involved, and there are many ways to be involved: rappel (no experience necessary!), sponsor, spread the news, come out to watch and cheer others on, visit the ground-level festivities to get educated about heart disease and how to prevent it,” said ConleyIf you’re looking for a great way to be involved with a local organization doing good for the community and making the

world a better place, Heartbeat International is it. For more information about their programs, offerings, volunteer opportunities and the Over the Edge event, visit their website at www.heartbeatsaveslives.com .

“This is a call to action” – Christine Conley, Heartbeat International.

spotLIght » heartbeat INterNatIoNaL


tampa has a youNg, rIch sports hIstoryHeRe’S To SpoRTS

hIddeN hIstory» Focus

in an effort to tag onto Focus’ ‘Get fit’ theme, it is only appropriate that we brush up on our Tampa Bay sports history. If we dare to

call ourselves Buccaneers, Rays or Lightning fans it’s about time we take a look at where they came from.

BuccaneersWell into our 4th decade of a football franchise, the Buccaneers hold one Super Bowl title in hopes of regaining the title every season.

Football was brought to the Tampa Bay area in 1976, born as the 27th franchise by the National Football League. The Bucs joined the NFL along with the Seattle Seahawks as an expansion program. They began in the AFC and after the first conference made a switch with the Seahawks into the NFC.Entering the franchise the Bucs lost their first 26 games, the gloomy start led to a brief winning streak in the 70’s and 80’s, not lasting long they then suffered fourteen consecutive losing seasons.

Ending a season of profitability in the 80’s the Bucs still struggled on the brink of bankruptcy. Doubt surrounded the future of Tampa’s franchise. There were several offers

for the franchise including those from George Steinbrenner and the owner of the Baltimore Orioles, Peter Angelos who had hopes to move the team to Baltimore. Malcolm Glazer, however slid in for the highest bid of $192 million, the highest sale for a franchise up to that point in history.

The Bucs were once again encouraged under the leadership of Coach Tony Dungy who led the team to our first Super Bowl victory in 2002.

Today the Bucs are coached by Raheem Morris, this year his third consecutive season. And they’re looking for victory.

RaysThe Tampa Bay Rays, formally known as the Devil Rays became a Major League Baseball franchise in 1998, one of the youngest teams today. The Devil Rays played their first game on March 31, 1998 against the Detroit Tigers. Wade Boggs starting the team off with their first home run, unfortunately opening day was a loss, followed by a tiny winning streak before the team fell below .500. Only a year after the franchise’s start, Wade Boggs hit his 3000th homerun in Tropicana Field, the first

player to ever do so.

The Devil Rays have only finished outside of last place four times. The team has lost season after season, until their sudden surge of victories in 2008. With new uniforms, new players, and a new name the Rays took it all the way to the World Series. They’re first chance at an off season wasn’t taken lightly, the Rays lost in the 2008 World Series against the Philadelphia Phillies, but were an accomplished team at the end of the season.

The Rays play in a domed field in St. Petersburg, Tropicana Field. The field, finished in 1990 sat without any tenants for a lengthy period of time. It was home to both the Lightning and the Storm for several seasons but never a permanent home to any team. ‘The Trop’ became home to the Tampa Bay Rays in 1998 and is still our home advantage.

LightningThe NHL sought to start a new franchise in 1980, several team owners battled it out for the team. The team was bought and introduced in 1992-93 with several partners participating in the purchase, including George Steinbrenner. The Lightning stepped on the ice for the first time on October 7, 1992, playing in an expo hall on the Florida State Fairgrounds. Later playing several seasons in the unoccupied Tropicana Field.

The team took off with great success even with a chance for the playoffs in the 95-96 season and even moved into their own arena, The Ice Palace in the 96-97 season. The Lightning slipped into consecutive losing seasons with

the retirement of player John Cullen.

With a huge profit loss, Art Williams sold the team in 1999 for $115 million. The next few seasons provided success for the Lightning including their Stanley Cup victory in the 03-04 season led by many young and energetic players.

Today, the Lightning are recovering from another slump which occurred in the 08-09 season. However, they competed in the 2011 Stanley Cup playoffs, just missing their chance at championship again.

FC Tampa BayThe FC Tampa Bay Rowdies were originally a franchise in 1975 playing ten consecutive seasons in Tampa Stadium. It wasn’t until 2008 that the soccer team renamed and began playing in the USL First Division. The team played for a season and later decided that they would pursue a new North American Soccer League which would begin play in 2010.

It was in 2010 that Rowdies was dropped from their name, and they are now FC Tampa Bay. The team played their first official game April 16, 2010 and took home a victory. This year the FC Tampa Bay play in AL Lang Stadium at Progress Energy Park.

Since the FC Tampa Bay are still a growing franchise they have more history to build than to recall, Tampa Bay should be excited to watch them grow.

story by: RAChel dRUmmOnd


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

The Premier Showplace for Talent in Florida

SEPTEMBER 16RICHIE MERRITTRichie Merritt, formally of the Marcels, will beperforming in the Red Rose Dining Room. Also,P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before andafter the show.

SEPTEMBER 17 & 23RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

SEPTEMBER 30JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK&ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Soundsperform before and after the show.

SEPTEMBER 24THE MYSTICSThe Mystics, including, originalmembers of the group, GeorgeGalfo and Phil Cracolici, willperform their hits, includingtheir number one chart topper“Hushabye.” P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds performbefore and after the show.

OCTOBER 11861 BALLIn cooperation with“Gone With The WindMemories” of Plant City,it’s a Tribute to one ofAmerica’s top novels andfilms! Come see and meetoriginal Gone With theWind cast members,Mickey Kuhn and PatrickCurtis. Music from the 97th Regimental String Band.Period costumes welcome, but not required.Doors open 6:30, Dinner served at 7:00,1861 Ball Events at 8:00.

OCTOBER 2“JUST CALL ME PEGGY”A TRIBUTE TOMARGARETMITCHELL

Join this special Sunday Tea with a reading byMarjorie York with her one woman show of“Just Call Me Peggy,” a tribute to Gone With The Windauthor, Margaret Mitchell; cast members will also bein attendence to sign autographs and talk about theirexperience of being in one of the greatest films of alltime! (In cooperation with “Gone With The WindMemories” of Plant City)

OCTOBER 7, 14, 22 & 29RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

OCTOBER 8LOLA & THE SAINTSDoo Wop At Its Best! Relive the 50s & 60s as thoughit was yesterday. “Forever in Love,” “Just Over theBrooklyn Bridge.” Plus, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds.

OCTOBER 15 & 21JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK&ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Soundsperform before and after the show.

OCTOBER 28COVER TO COVERThe trio covers the top hits from yesterday to today!Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before andafter the show.

NOVEMBER 12FROM THE SAHARA HOTEL IN VEGAS –A SALUTE TO THEPLATTERS, COASTERS, DRIFTERSAND TEMPTATIONS FOR ST. JUDEMyles Salvage’s act from Las Vegas comes to Plant Cityto help benefit St. Jude Children’s Hospital. The annual

event includes Dinner in a Supper Club atmosphereand great musical talent to dance the night away...for a very good cause.Call about our new Tiered Pricing!

NOVEMBER 18COVER TO COVERThe trio covers the top hits from yesterday to today!Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform beforeand after the show.

NOVEMBER 19 & 25RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

NOVEMBER 26LOLA & THE SAINTSA Red Rose favorite. Great hits from the 50s & 60s.Plus, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds.

Coming Soon !DECEMBER 10CHRIS MACDONALD “ELVIS”The magic of “the King or Rock-n-roll” in a trulydynamic performance celebrating the life and musicof one of the greatest entertainers and pop cultureicons of our time. Destiny opens and closes the show!

DECEMBER 16THE FOUR ACESIt’s a “Winter Wonderland Dinner Dance”in the Ball-room as the dynamic group perform their hits: ThreeCoins in a Fountain, Shangri-La, Tell Me Why, andmore!

DECEMBER 31NEW YEARS EVEIt’s a celebration not to miss! Ballroom and Diningroom performances of The Legacy of the Temptationsand the World Famous Platters. Be part of the bigCOUNTDOWN... Call for pricing and details.

RRCalendar_Sept11:Layout 1 9/2/11 12:00 PM Page 1


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

The Premier Showplace for Talent in Florida

SEPTEMBER 16RICHIE MERRITTRichie Merritt, formally of the Marcels, will beperforming in the Red Rose Dining Room. Also,P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before andafter the show.

SEPTEMBER 17 & 23RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

SEPTEMBER 30JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK&ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Soundsperform before and after the show.

SEPTEMBER 24THE MYSTICSThe Mystics, including, originalmembers of the group, GeorgeGalfo and Phil Cracolici, willperform their hits, includingtheir number one chart topper“Hushabye.” P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds performbefore and after the show.

OCTOBER 11861 BALLIn cooperation with“Gone With The WindMemories” of Plant City,it’s a Tribute to one ofAmerica’s top novels andfilms! Come see and meetoriginal Gone With theWind cast members,Mickey Kuhn and PatrickCurtis. Music from the 97th Regimental String Band.Period costumes welcome, but not required.Doors open 6:30, Dinner served at 7:00,1861 Ball Events at 8:00.

OCTOBER 2“JUST CALL ME PEGGY”A TRIBUTE TOMARGARETMITCHELL

Join this special Sunday Tea with a reading byMarjorie York with her one woman show of“Just Call Me Peggy,” a tribute to Gone With The Windauthor, Margaret Mitchell; cast members will also bein attendence to sign autographs and talk about theirexperience of being in one of the greatest films of alltime! (In cooperation with “Gone With The WindMemories” of Plant City)

OCTOBER 7, 14, 22 & 29RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

OCTOBER 8LOLA & THE SAINTSDoo Wop At Its Best! Relive the 50s & 60s as thoughit was yesterday. “Forever in Love,” “Just Over theBrooklyn Bridge.” Plus, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds.

OCTOBER 15 & 21JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK&ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Soundsperform before and after the show.

OCTOBER 28COVER TO COVERThe trio covers the top hits from yesterday to today!Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before andafter the show.

NOVEMBER 12FROM THE SAHARA HOTEL IN VEGAS –A SALUTE TO THEPLATTERS, COASTERS, DRIFTERSAND TEMPTATIONS FOR ST. JUDEMyles Salvage’s act from Las Vegas comes to Plant Cityto help benefit St. Jude Children’s Hospital. The annual

event includes Dinner in a Supper Club atmosphereand great musical talent to dance the night away...for a very good cause.Call about our new Tiered Pricing!

NOVEMBER 18COVER TO COVERThe trio covers the top hits from yesterday to today!Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform beforeand after the show.

NOVEMBER 19 & 25RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

NOVEMBER 26LOLA & THE SAINTSA Red Rose favorite. Great hits from the 50s & 60s.Plus, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds.

Coming Soon !DECEMBER 10CHRIS MACDONALD “ELVIS”The magic of “the King or Rock-n-roll” in a trulydynamic performance celebrating the life and musicof one of the greatest entertainers and pop cultureicons of our time. Destiny opens and closes the show!

DECEMBER 16THE FOUR ACESIt’s a “Winter Wonderland Dinner Dance”in the Ball-room as the dynamic group perform their hits: ThreeCoins in a Fountain, Shangri-La, Tell Me Why, andmore!

DECEMBER 31NEW YEARS EVEIt’s a celebration not to miss! Ballroom and Diningroom performances of The Legacy of the Temptationsand the World Famous Platters. Be part of the bigCOUNTDOWN... Call for pricing and details.

RRCalendar_Sept11:Layout 1 9/2/11 12:00 PM Page 1


south tampa based orgaNIzatIoN gIves WomeN tooLs to succeed

DReSSinG TAmpA BAy foR SuCCeSS

tampa houses a strong, consistent and growing non-profit organization likely unknown by the public. On the corner

of N. Howard street what was once a police station, now offers service to women seeking to enter the work force. Operated solely through donations and volunteer work, the company has managed to provide services to over 7,000 women in its lifetime. Dress for Success is a unique program that not only provides women with the tools they need to gain employment, but it also gives them the confidence.

The first Dress for Success center opened in New York in 1997, the Tampa location was the first in Florida and is now one of 114 nationwide. This program allows women to work through referral agencies to gain the support they need to enter the work force.

“We work with 119 referral agencies in Hillsborough county, including Metropolitan Ministries, Salvation Army, Crossroad, they referral all of the clients we have here. We then give them professional suits to start them on their way,” Tampa operator Katie McGill said.

McGill says that while they are willing to work with anyone, the only requirement is that the women come through an agency. She also says that, their goal is to make these women look professional. If they are seeking a career they deserve to have the right clothes to make a good impression.

“A lot of people donate to us and we make sure it’s interview appropriate because a lot of women will come in here at nine in the morning and her interview is at one so she literally has to get dressed and go from here.”

Because Dress for Success does not get any

government funding they are constantly seeking organizations and individuals to donate. They have partnerships with many churches and clothing closets in the community that donate to one another, Dress for Success will take what they can’t use for their clients and give that back to the community.

McGill says that one things she likes to do is make sure that when clients do come to pick up their suits they can actually feel like they are shopping and less like they are being given charity.

Walk through of your shopping experience

1. They get their suits. “So, they come in and they have a professional shopper, that’s what we call our volunteers. They help them pick out suits; they get two suits a pair of shoes and a purse when they first come in. And we have nice things.”

2. They accessorize.

“We try to give everyone

Feature» dress For success

WrItteN by: RAChel dRUmmOnd


pearls, after they begin working they can come back and get fun stuff. After they have been working for thirty days they can come back to get more stuff.”

3. They pick out a purse

“ When people do clothes and purse drives we get them to put a note in the purses, so each client gets a note in their purse. They all love the big bags.”

4. Shoes are a must.

“We just recently had one of our volunteers build us new show racks, because the plastic ones couldn’t hold everything we had!”

5. Specialty Work attire.

“Now we started carrying scrubs, we have a lot of women going into the medical field so it was necessary for us to start carrying scrubs.”

6. Hygiene.

McGill says that a lot of women are coming right out of jail or are homeless, so providing things like deodorant and hygiene products is a must. Aside from necessities, they also provide hair dye, perfumes and makeup to help their clients look their best.

McGill says that because so many of the women they work with have never been employed it was completely necessary that they build a computer lab to give women an

opportunity to create their resumes.

“We had to start a computer lab, a lot of women were coming in and didn’t have a resume. So Macy’s helped us with this, IBM donated computers.”

Not only does the computer lab offer a change to create a resume, but they have also started conducting mock interviews to prepare their clients for the interview they are actually shopping for.

McGill says that doing this makes them more comfortable about the whole idea of their actual interview.

“The suit is only the beginning I would hate for some to come in and get a suit and [not be able to use it]. You know, they need the tools to help them get a job and then keep that job.”

A program created by Walmart has also helped women with their journey towards profession.

“Walmart has started a program called, Going Places by Walmart, women that have been unemployed for a while go through an eight week program we have HR people come in alone with special speakers. They get a mock interview, a job coach, and along with all of this when they leave it is a very good program.”

Dress for Success has a program called

‘Professional Womens Group’ that continues to support their previous clients. It works to keep them both motivated and involved in their community. Once women have been to three meetings they are considered a member of the group. McGill says that every year one woman is chosen to go to a leadership conference and upon her return home she must organize a charitable event. Each person involved in Profession Womens Group works to make that event a success.

“That opportunity really allows these women to build up their leadership skills.”

McGill says that this program is really a learning experience. She has seen a switch in clientele in the past few years and is thankful that the program is not income eligible, that restriction would keep so many of they people they help away from the services they provide.

The next goal for the organization is to start a job shadowing program that will allow these women to actually see first hand what they will be doing in the work force, McGill is confident that an opportunity like that will give these women more of a desire to get to that goal even sooner than anticipated.

“A lot of the women that come here have never had a suit on, and when they put that suit on it makes them feel like they can do anything and that is what really makes a difference.”

Feature» Focus

dress For success1705 North howard avenuetampa, FL 33607-3429(813) 259-1876


eNtertaINmeNt » eveNt caLeNdar

SouTH TAmpAcaLeNdaroF eveNts

If you have an upcoming event and would like us to add it to our calendar of events please email the information to [email protected]

oCToBeR 1-29Busch Gardens Howloscream, “Th e Dark Side

of Th e Gardens”. Visit howloscream.com for

information on select nights and park hours.

oCToBeR 1Event Planning Expo

Hundreds of event planners will fi ll the Tampa

Convention Center for the Its My Party -

Event Planning Expo Extravaganza. Guests

can participate in mini-seminars, view live

demonstrations, sample foods and desserts.

With live entertainment for the family. It will be

located at 333 S Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602

at 11:00am. For more information call 813-274-

8511.

Kids Ahoy!

Bring the little ones aboard the SS American

Victory -- one of only four fully-operational

WWII ships in the country -- for a fun deal.

Enjoy a scavenger hunt, walk the planks like the

soldiers and sailors did, create an arts-and-crafts

project, and relax with a snack, all for $2.50

-- that’s half-off the regular admission price for

youths ages 12 and younger. It will be held at

705 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602, for more

information visit their website at

americanvictory.org.

Spectator Saturday Story time

Barnes & Noble Booksellers hosts a weekly story

hour for the little ones. Located at 213 N Dale

Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33609 at 11:00 a.m.

Octoberfest Celebrations

Join MacDinton’s Irish Pub with Mac’toberfest

Saturday October 1st (2:00 PM to 3:00 AM).

Enjoy German Beer, food, music, and games! $10

Open Beer bar from 4pm-6pm. Other specials

from 6pm – Close. Including: $5 Jagermeister, $6

Jager Bombs, $6 Octoberfest Litres

oCToBeR 2Hyde Park Village Fresh Market

Enjoy local foods, hand crafts, and live music on

the fi rst Sunday of every month at the Hyde Park

Village Fresh Market. Located in the Hyde Park

Village Shopping Center. Visit hydeparkvillage.net

for more information.

Target America: Opening Eyes

to the Damage Drugs Cause

New Exhibit opening at MOSI (Museum of

Science and Industry) for one whole year that will

explore the consequences of drug usage along with

its impact on the environment. Be sure to visit

MOSI.org for more information.

oCToBeR 3Class: Music together

Geared toward children up to age 4, these classes

build on their natural enthusiasm for music and

movement and include songs, rhythmic rhymes,

clapping, dancing, and playing instruments.

Activities are informal, developmentally

appropriate for children, and easy for parents

and caregivers, regardless of musical ability. CDs,

illustrated songbook, DVD and parent guide

included. Located at 1605 W Snow Ave, Tampa,

FL 33606.

Buccaneers vs. Indianapolis Colts

Come watch Tampa Bay’s own Buccaneers take

on the Indianapolis Colts in Raymond James

Stadium. Visit buccaneers.com for information

concerning tickets.

oCToBeR 4$2 Target Tuesdays at Glazer Children’s Museum

Glazer Museum opens doors for children for just

$2 from 2 to 6. Visit glazermuseum.org for further

information.

Fit Kid’s playground: “Playin’ in the park”

Come enjoy a free exercise class for kids in

the park on the fi rst Tuesday of each month.

Content varies and includes karate, cheerleading,

gymnastics, using a hula-hoop, zumba, and hip-

hop dance. Located at 600 N Ashley Dr, Tampa,

FL 33602 from 4 to 7.

oCToBeR 6Rock the Park

A free monthly music series showcasing Tampa’s

musical talents of all genres. Located at Curtis

Hixon Waterfront Park on Ashley Dr. from 6:30

p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

oCToBeR 9Taste of Westshore

Experience the fi rst ever Taste of Westshore which

will off er live music and entertainment while you

enjoy the best variety of food and drinks that

Westshore has to off er.

oCToBeR 116th annual Women’s Symposium (WIN)

Women In Networking (WIN) will hold the 6th

annual Women’s Symposium on Tuesday, October

11, 2011, from 5pm - 8:30pm at HCA Patient

Account Services, 31975 US Hwy 19 N in Palm

Harbor.

oCToBeR 14Florida Aquarium’s Brews By Th e Bay

Th e Florida Aquarium’s Brews By Th e Bay features

Oktoberfest brews & craft beers from Pepin

Distributing and is the Aquarium’s annual beer &

food festival.

Enjoy one of the best parties in Tampa while

sampling more than 85 diff erent types of beer,

excellent food from bay area restaurants and live

entertainment! Event will be held from 8pm-

11pm, Rain or Shine.

Th ere are no crowded streets or long beer lines at

this party, only cool exhibits and the kind of fun

that can only come from a full barrel of beer!

Featuring:

• More than 85 craft beer samplings

• Delicious foods from top restaurants

• All Aquarium exhibits open for viewing

• Live entertainment

Buy your tickets now at http://www.

brewsbythebay.com/

Warsteiner Keg Tapping

Start your weekend early, head downtown to

the river and catch the tapping of the offi cial

Warsteiner keg. We’ll be celebrating all night long,

singing, dancing and enjoying great food from

Datz on South Macdill. Seriously, the best thing

you can do for yourself that night is enjoy some

ridiculously great food from Datz; wash it down

with liters of Warsteiner on the Hillsborough river,

singing and cheering with friends and neighbors.

Event starts at 4pm. For more information: http://

www.oktoberfesttampa.com/

oCToBeR 14-16KONIG LUDWIG OKTOBERFEST

SPEZIAL, THE ORIGINAL ROYAL

WEDDING MARZAN

Celebrate with German cheer, dancing and

singing to cooler weather and colder beer along the

Hillsborough river downtown at the heights this

October 14th, 15th, and 16th. Oktoberfest Tampa

2011 is a time to unwind and make new friends.

For more information visit Oktoberfesttampa.com.

oCToBeR 15Why argue when you can laugh?

Learn how to develop better relationships with

your partner. Located at 100 Riverfront Blvd,

Bradenton, FL 34205, visit betterrelationships.net

for more information.

2nd annual Tampa Bay Veg Fest

Th e Bay Area’s only vegetarian and vegan festival

returns with food booths, exhibitors about healthy

and eco-friendly living, live music, games for

kids, local nonprofi ts, animal adoptions, and guest

speakers, including Los Angeles-based comedian

Carol Leifer. Leifer, a writer for “Saturday Night

Live,” “Seinfeld,” and “Modern Family,” will

speak about following a vegan lifestyle. Located

at Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park on Old Water

Street from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.


oCToBeR 16Buccaneers vs. New Orleans Saints

Come watch Tampa Bay’s own Buccaneers take

on the New Orleans Saints in Raymond James

Stadium. Visit buccaneers.com for information

concerning tickets.

oCToBeR 21Art after dark

For Art After Dark - held the third Friday of

every month - the museum partners with area

organizations, volunteers, and artists for an evening

of music, live entertainment and, of course, fine

art. Located at 120 W Gasparilla Plz, Tampa, FL

33602. For more information visit tampamuseum.

org.

oCToBeR 21-22Ghost Tour: Tour of the Grey Lady

Step aboard the SS American Victory (one of only

four fully-operational WWII ships in the country)

for an evening of paranormal investigations. At the

SS American Victory on Channelside Drive.

October 22

Kid’s Ahoy!

Bring the little ones aboard the SS American

Victory -- one of only four fully-operational

WWII ships in the country -- for a fun deal.

Enjoy a scavenger hunt, walk the planks like the

soldiers and sailors did, create an arts-and-crafts

project, and relax with a snack, all for $2.50

-- that’s half-off the regular admission price for

youths ages 12 and younger. It will be held at

705 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602, for more

information visit their website at americanvictory.

org.

University of South Florida vs. Cincinnati

Watch the USF Bulls take on Cincinnati in the

Big East Game of the week at 12 p.m. For more

information and tickers visit gousfbulls.com

oCToBeR 23Preview Concert: “A Celebration

of the Life and Music of Robert Helps”

Four University of South Florida music professors

will offer a special preview of their upcoming

Carnegie Hall performance, “A Celebration of the

Life and Music of Robert Helps” at the University

of South Florida’s School of Music Concert Hall,

at 4 p.m.

Guppyween

A fun time where kids can trick-or-treat at the

Florida Aquarium. For more information visit,

flaquarium.org.

oCToBeR 28-30Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest brings the best of Old Bavaria

and New Florida together for three full days of

authentic German food, drink, music and dancing

... along with a spectacular carnival & midway, a

great arts & crafts show, and the wildest array of

audience participation contests that the Tampa

Bay area has ever seen! Event will be held weekend

of October 28-30 at Tampa Bay Downs Also this

year, they are adding Thursday night to the mix

with Rocktoberfest from 6-10. Carnival, food, beer

and some Classic Rock.For more information, call

the Upper Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce at

(813) 855-4233.

To be a part of Oktoberfest as a sponsor, vendor

or volunteer please contact us at 813.855.4233 or

email Mark [email protected]

oCToBeR 30Dubliner Irish Pub Art Party

Enjoy live painting and live music at the pub

on the last Sunday of the month. Located at

2307 W Azeele St, Tampa, FL 33609. For more

information visit thedublinirishpub.com.


Advertise with FOCUs

Get your business/organization in front of the community

Call or email us to learn more about advertising in FOCUS

Jim Duke 813-390-5526

[email protected]



ybor city; the aroma of hot Cuban sandwiches, reggae drums beating in my ear and an ice cold Landshark on the way... I

know what you are thinking, man this girl goes out a lot, but you are wrong, It’s 2:00 pm on Sunday, August 28th and I’m about to work out.

I am at the inaugural Tour de Tampa presented by onbikes. onbikes is a nonprofit organization that was started by 5 guys one night sitting around trying to think of a way to give back to the community. Now President Drew Weatherford, an

avid bicycling enthusiast, offered the idea of doing something “on bikes.” As they talked the ideas kept coming of great ways to get involved and step up to the responsibility each one of them felt to the community. By the end of the night onbikes, the organization, was born.

After talking to the founders it’s clear they really believe this is something they were called to do. An idea you hear frequently when talking to each of them is that “giving is greater than getting.” They each seem to feel a sense of responsibility which is probably best captured in the onbikes mission statement. “At onbikes we are committed to making everyday choices that improve the lives of our children, our families, and our communities. Whether these choices are made for health, the environment, or to simply put a smile on

someone’s face – it is onbikes mission to serve others and to positively impact our world and the people who inhabit it.”

The entry fee for the event was $30.00 and with that you get about a 4 mile tour from the historic Ybor City to the bustling downtown Channelside district, a t-shirt and the proceeds go to The Dream Center of Tampa Bay. I know one of the founders of onbikes personally, Light Townsend. I’ve always enjoyed grabbing a beer with him in the past but today was different. Today I was proud

to be his friend. As I looked around at over 160 people and thought about all of the money that was raised for The Dream Center I felt a sense of pride and selflessness knowing the effect these guys were going to have on our community.

Pit stop one- Gaspars Grotto, 1805 E. 7th Avenue, live band, hot Cuban sandwiches, plantains, sangria and an outdoor patio with views of the beautiful red brick buildings and rod iron balconies that line 7th avenue. You can tell this bar has some history. This bar has it all from beer pong tables to a pirate theme to an incredible spread for Sunday brunch. After enjoying the music and hot food we get back on the saddle and headed over to New World Brewery.

New World Brewery, 1313 8th Avenue, once again

shows you why Ybor city is a landmark and a must see of Tampa Bay. Dave Mathews jams on the juke box, fresh, hot stone seared pizza and a stocked bar with over 40 beers to choose from. After my sneak peek into what New World Brewery has to offer, it’s back on the saddle to Hattricks. Hatricks, located in downtown on 107 S Franklin Street is the kind of bar that knows what they are and makes no apologies for it. They are a sports bar with high definition TV’s, hot wings, Philly cheese steaks and a packed happy hour list to ensure you’ll stay hydrated throughout the game.

While enjoying my Philly cheese, I look around at the faces and realize that this is not like any race I’ve ever participated in. This race was more important than all of us. We all were spending our time and money to help our community become a better place. Hattricks is definitely on my list for the next game day, they are voted one of the best sports bars in town and I can see why.

Less than a mile away is Taps, located at 777 N Ashley Drive. Taps has been my go to Friday night stress reliever on several occasions. I love the diversity of wine and beer they offer. They have over 250 beers, which makes me divert from the ol’ faithful and experience something new. Today it was a Val-Dieu Blonde that caught my eye. This wine and beer bar has always done the job, whether I want to sit outside and people watch or

belly up at a bar and de stress from a long day at work.

Still on 2 wheels, we head to our last pit stop. With no need for a description, we head to one of the most famous sports bars around. Hooters in Channelside. Orange, wings, girls, and sports, What else would you need? They reserved the entire porch for us, which is the perfect spot to park the bike, belly up and enjoy the rest of my Sunday. I order my Hootersizers of Chicken quesadillas and fried pickles and bask in the

euphoric feeling I got from doing something good.

With as much fun as this tour was, it was for a more important reason and that was to raise money for The Dream Center of Tampa Bay. onbikes cruised past their fundraising goal with more than 150 participants for the Tour de Tampa, and they are just getting started. I hope that everyone took away the same lesson I did that Sunday and realized that each one of us can make a difference in our community. Grab your cruiser, mountain or tandem bike and join onbikes for their next fundraising event. To learn more about onbikes visit www.facebook.com/onbikes




eNtertaINmeNt » dININg proFILe

RenzO’s ARGentine steAkhOUse

3644 W kennedy BOUleVARdtAmpA, Fl 33609 phOne: 813.870.3606 - 813.870.0006

Renzo’S ARGenTine STeAkHouSeFor the Love oF Food

Wednesday, August 31, 2011, Renzo’s proudly opened its doors to introduce the full range of Renzo’s Gourmet,

including their unique Argentine style grilled meats, house-baked breads, pastries, and desserts, and uniquely sourced wines.

This family restaurant dishes out different flavors from all across South America including Uruguay, Chile, Venezuela and primarily Argentina. Owned and exceptionally operated by the Menzerotolo family, they cordially invited guests to a feast of grilled delights and specialty wines. The occasion was to join Renzo and his family in order to celebrate the 2-year anniversary of Renzo’s Argentine Steakhouse.

Guests were excited to experience the new Vinoteca, with unique wines from Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile. The new Vinoteca will always be stocked with their choice Malbec, Carmenere, and Torrontes wines.

Additionally, there was a tasting of grilled delights in the Argentine tradition, including a variety of tapas. I had the opportunity to try

their chicken empanadas that were baked to flaky perfection, as well as, Renzo’s famous Tequeños. Inspired by Venezuelan cuisine, this rich pastry dough delicately wraps itself around cheese and is deep fried to a golden crisp. Lastly, I grabbed one of the little Caprese tapas that was served on a French baguette and topped with fresh basil, sliced tomato and Mozzarella cheese.

Speaking with Renzo about the recent success and his reflection of the last two years of the restaurant he mentioned the popularity about one of his specials that he will soon turn into a permanent menu item. He explained his patron’s love the Argentinean Steak Dinner for two special which includes: two salads, Argentinean grilled steaks, two sides, a bottle of specialty wine, and two desserts…all for approximately $40. Wow!

Check out Renzo’s Argentine Steakhouse as it quaintly sits on W. Kennedy Blvd. between Himes and Dale Mabry Hwy. As you can read, it is much more than an Argentinean Steakhouse it’s a European bakery too!

story by: JOdi lOkAy


Benefitting

Media Day and VIP Rappel November 18, 2011

Over the Edge Event November 19, 2011

Heartbeat International Foundation, Inc.

www.HeartbeatSavesLives.com

Get your heart racing for Heartbeat!

The Wilson Company

Franklin Exchange Building

655 N. Franklin St.

Tampa, FL 33602

Building Partner &

Event Host


eNtertaINmeNt » dININg proFILe

RiGAtOni’s RestAURAnt & lOUnGe

WWW.RiGAtOnitAmpA.COm 813-879-7000

mAnGiA! mAnGiA!! rIgatoNI’s dIshes up autheNtIc ItaLIaN dIshes

i’m Italian and we are known for being very sensual people and that translates over into our food. Every meal turns into a social

gathering at an Italian dinner table. There is always laughter, a heated debate and the occasional tear (which usually happens mom says the prayer), but that makes a meal for me. Today’s occasion is a date. My father and I have gone on what he calls a “date night” since I was a little girl. It’s just some time that we get to spend together while feeding my love affair for food. I’m a great cook, my mother is a great cook and I can count the number of times on one hand that I have had an Italian meal at a restaurant and not in my own kitchen. Whether it’s the atmosphere, ambiance or the care taken in the preparation

of the food, very few restaurants can capture the beauty of a real Italian meal. But, my father wants Italian and my kitchen is closed for the night so Rigatoni’s it is.

Rigatoni’s is a family owned restaurant located at 3437 West Kennedy Boulevard. The appearance has always caught my eye with its quant, Tuscan style feel.

Upon entering I hear the familiar sound of “Ol’ Blue Eyes.” When the moon hits your eyes like a big pizza pie, that’s amore… and love at first sight it was. It’s peaceful and romantic with a family vibe. We are immediately greeted by an Italian waitress (beautiful, dark haired, dark eyed, olive skin).

story by: AnGelA hAll

As we slide into our booth I am mesmerized by the family history that adornes the walls. There are hundreds of family photos framing memories that like any typical Italian meal were captured around food. I order the house wine which is a full-bodied sophisticated red that will compliment my meal. To no surprise of mine, my boring father ordered a Jack straight up.

“Salu! To my father and another date” Brought to the table is a basket full of hot, mouthwatering Garlic Knots. After my first bite I know that without a doubt these are going to be in my heaven. The only time there wasn’t a knot in my hand was when I was licking the juice off my fingers. I was going to savor every piece of these knots.

“You sure do eat a lot” is not something anyone wants to hear while enjoying some quality time with your garlic knots, but that’s my father. My mother would have ordered a second meal to go “because I’m looking to skinny”. I quickly realize that’s who I should have brought with me.

I order the Pollo Parmesan Ala Rigatoni which promises a plump breast of chicken topped with homemade marinara and mozzerella cheeses seared over rigatoni pasta. Since I am in triathlon training I also order a Greek goddess salad to get my greens in. The goddess salad has baby spinach, iceburg lettuce, vine ripe tomatoes, sweet red onions topped with fetacinni olives and peroncini. My father orders seared salmon, I told you he was boring!! The best way to describe his personality is a veteran of the Korean and Vietnam war, he’s a man that knows what he likes and he likes what he is used to.

The 2nd basket of garlic knots arrive and man they just won’t shut up. Eat me! Eat Me!! Garlic Knots 7, Angela 0. These knots own me.

Like a mirage, I see plates with an abundant array of vibrant colors trailed by a delicate steem and I start to smell home. My kitchen was always engulfed in the aroma of home made sauce simmering on the stove. With my father’s attention focused on the waitress I’m able to see the excellent food that lies in front of me; soft, wet, pasta dripping with a smooth, rich marinara sauce ready to be soaked up and enjoyed with a piece of fresh, hot, moist bread.. This meal has me licking my lips in anticipation of the first bite.

As I pick up my fork I immediately smell the array of aromas that come together and I am taken back to my childhood. You can taste the care and time that was taken in the food. The ingredients are fresh with no elaborate dressings that mask the true mediterranean flavors in their dishes. For the next 15 minutes my father and I enjoy each others company in silence with the occasianal nod confirming the cook did his job.

To much of my delight I realize my father is getting full which will give me a nice snack to enjoy later.

I’ve had a love affair with Italian men and food with the latter once again continuing to never disappoint. If you want a robust, strong, fiery, vibrant, savory, luscious, and delicious Italian meal stop by Rigatoni’s and adopt the Italian attitude towards cooking, eating and family. It truly is living la bella vita.


eNtertaINmeNt » WINe

CHeeRS To enD of SummeRi am just teasing you! There is no way I would

stop drinking Pinot Grigio just because summer ended. But I thought it would

be a nice way to say good bye to the summer weather. I ran up to Publix Greenwise for a quick tour of their small wine and cheese boutique. I skimmed the aisles dialing in on bottles filled with my favorite light yellow nectar. Low and behold my new found friend 2010 Loredona Pinot Grigio was on sale for $11.99. I was sold.

Wait one second, this girl doesn’t drink Pinot with ice cubes and she happens to be impatient. As I contemplated, I found the “Chilla”. The “Chilla” as it turns out chills your wine or champagne to your temperature preference within minutes.

I set it at the coolest level, and headed for the cheese section. If you have never been to Publix Greenwise you should go just for the Cheese and Olive Bar. Inspired by a recent Ceviche dinner, I wanted to replicate the “Queso de Cabra”, which is a baked Goat Cheese, accompanied with fresh basil and warm roasted tomatoes. I scoped out the variety of Goat Cheeses and decided on the Ile de France. It was an easy choice because I remembered reading; Ile de France won in a blind tasting of nine domestic and imported products for the “best fine cooking goat cheese”.

Once I got home, I flipped open my oven and input a ceramic baking dish full of goat cheese with drizzled extra virgin olive oil surrounded by diced tomatoes. I poured the Pinot in a tall glass, took one sip and said

“mmmm..stpsst…ahhh”. You know the sound your mouth automatically makes when it’s really happy with you.

Sitting back on my porch, watching the Tampa Bay sunset, I truly began to indulge in my chilled Loredona. As I twirled the steam from the tips of my fingers, I could smell the fregrant aromas.With just one sip I could taste the fruit characteristics and smell even more scents of orange and nectarine along with hints of green apple, pears, and other tropical citrus fruits. I would say it’s a super easy wine to drink and ends with a clean finish. The citrus notes are refreshing and not too acidic.

As the timer went off, I thought….” I may burn my taste buds, but it doesn’t matter”. I scooped my warm cheese, basil and warm lush tomato onto a bagel chip. It wasn’t Ceviche Amazing, but it was pretty good for my skill set. The Ile de France’s tangy yet slightly salty flavor and its cream crumble texture cheese absolutely paired well with my aromatic white wine. I couldn’t think of a better way to say goodbye to summer.

story by: JOdi lOkAyFareWeLL pINot grIgIo


LeSSonS fRom 9/11We all know where we were and what

we were doing on the day more than 10 years ago. I was on the air

delivering the news when it happened and stayed glued to my anchor chair well into the evening hours.

It was the day the Towers fell, the day terrorism finally reached our shores in a way we hadn’t seen since World War II. It was also the day we learned a number of very

difficult lessons that will likely haunt us into the future.

We learned that life is not fair. So many things happen to us that we can’t control and affect the good, the bad, and the indifferent the same.

Why some people were sick that day or missed a train or were late for work or missed a flight that saved their lives is a mystery. Fairness is one of those inborn

human characteristics that seem to propel us forward through difficulty as long as we can find someone or something to blame. When something is “just not right” based on our morals and values it is unsettling and throws us off balance. Death comes on its own schedule and we can neither control it nor, as in the case with terror attacks, predict when and where it will strike. It isn’t fair.

We learned that revenge is the most destructive motive in the universe. Forget all those stupid Hollywood movies that glorify the heroes getting their pound of flesh from the bad guys. It may feel good for a few fleeting moments but one man’s justice is another’s injustice. We saw generation upon generation of revenge exacted upon us for things none of us even remember or understand. Revenge is an excuse, a license to act with little to no impunity because “they had it coming.”

We learned that there is a religious movement that believes their God-given directive is to kill us… period. There is no conversation, no middle ground, no compromise, and no exceptions to their rule. If we don’t convert we are to be put to death. Radical Islam is real and it is growing. Even sensible Muslims who condemn these radicals can’t slow its march to madness.

We learned that we can’t let our guard down. We must always be alert and vigilant in protecting our shores. National security isn’t just something they talk about in the halls of Congress. It is something that must become part of our daily lives as we watch and listen to what’s happening around us and actively take part in reporting things that don’t seem right.

And, maybe the most important lesson we’ve learned since that horrific day: As a nation we are the most compassionate, the most giving, the most sacrificial, most resilient people in the world. It’s in our DNA as Americans. We climb up into the burning inferno. We climb up to our destiny with faith our God has a better plan.

We joined together even before the dust settled and determined that this event would not dim the light of democracy. Right or wrong, we sacrificed over five-thousand of our nation’s best and brightest… even spending ourselves into a sea of debt to try and make it right.

Lots of what has happened after the attacks doesn’t make sense. Bad intelligence, IEDs nearly impossible to detect, billions of dollars of aid lost or unaccounted for, America still hated even as we free millions from tyranny and death.

Yet, Old Glory waves on. The lives lost in ignorance joined a chorus of generations that believed there is no greater nation on earth than the United States of America. God Bless America! God Bless the heroes of 9/11. We will never forget!

extra » aL reucheL

WrItteN by: Al ReUChel


mARRiAGe:

extra » derek mauL

every summer my wife and I celebrate another wedding anniversary. I’ve written about this before, and I’ll write

about it again. And I always talk about our relationship with enthusiasm because the celebration never gets old.

2011 marks 32 years since we launched this great adventure together. Step aside, Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure; move over, Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride; take a back seat, The Incredible Journey. Our story is more epic by far.

This time I’m writing from the perspective of “The Life-Charged Life.” It’s a concept I’ve been developing along with my latest book and, in my experience, I’d have to say

that this “Life-Charged Life” gains a lot of its energy, its meaning and its vibrancy from the fact that I’m married to Rebekah.

Of course, we had no idea what the next three-plus decades would look like when we walked out of the church together that day in 1979. But we did know that we were committed to taking the journey in unison. Honoring that decision for faithfulness has been pivotal in so many ways.

All AdVentURe, All the time:But saying we have a “life-charged” marriage is not the same as saying that the past 32 years have been easy, comfortable, smooth sailing or trouble-free. Instead it has been – and continues to be – a

wonderful, difficult, passionate, challenging, rich, meaningful, beautiful, life-charged adventure.

I referenced some movies in the first paragraph. Here are some more: The journey so far has been It’s A Wonderful Life, with occasional scenes from Schoolhouse Rock, The War of the Worlds, The Incredibles, and sometimes a little Harry Potter thrown in for good measure.

RelAtiOnships ARe the key tO hAppiness:I really can’t say enough about the connection between great, well-cared for relationships and a great life. But I also can’t say enough about how important

it is to understand what makes a great relationship. Too many people miss out because they have no idea what a relationship either can or should be, or they abandon it without making any substantive effort, or they stay in the marriage but fail to fully invest in one another because:

• They’ve been told that the process should be easy;

• Or they’ve been led to believe they should get it right the first time;

• Or they never understood that “faithfulness” is about keeping all of the vows, not just the one about who you sleep with;

• Or they buy in to shallow definitions of love that are heavy on feelings, or infatuation, or control, or romance, or sex… but light on the things that count, such as commitment, and honor, and honest struggle, and kindness…. kindness: And I really, really, really can’t say enough about kindness. I have seen the lack of kindness kill marriages beyond repair. And I’ve seen consistent, beautifully applied, long-term kindness rescue bad relationships from the brink.

Here’s a big heads-up for all those so-called “spiritual” people out there, especially the ones who like to say that God is on their side when it comes to their relationships. If Jesus really does reside in your heart, then there are some “evidences” you need to be aware of – they’re listed in Galatians 5: The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

This is the heart of 32 years together! Galatians 5:22 in the context of ongoing commitment, enduring faithfulness, and honest struggle.

Easy? Not on your life!

How about wonderful, worthwhile, life-charged, and better for the 32-years of trying? You bet!

IN the eNd, It’s aLL about kINdNessWrItteN by: deRek mAUl

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