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FREEVOLUME 7 ISSUE 5 • JUNE 2011

June 2011 focuslakeland.com2 FOCUS Magazine lakeland June 2011FOCUS Magazine lakeland June 2011

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Volume 7 Issue 5 • June 2011focuslakeland.com

Licensing OppOrtunity

8-12LOcaL

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

on The Cover

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

16-17featurePrepare to be inspired to take your reading up a notch and help others who may need a little reading help to do the same. Polk County leaders are readers and Read Polk is doing its part to make certain Central Florida has more than its share. Get involved to up the literacy levels in your neighborhood.

18-19spOtLight interviewEric Hoyer loves his work as a consulting forester and arborist. In October he will compete in this year’s week-long, 500 mile Tour des Trees from Virginia Beach to Washington, D.C. to raise money for research.

8 10 12eriC hoyer

Arborist and avid bike rider

Photographer: Anthony Sassano

all neWfoCUslakeland.Com

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

23dining prOfiLeFor a refreshing take on the going green theme, be sure to visit Fred’s Southern Kitchen for some amazing down home cooking delights and a potential discount to boot. Be sure to read the dining profile this month to see what all the buzz is about.



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

Floyd Publications, Inc. 702 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd.Plant City, FL 33563

Office 813.707.8783 Fax 813.764.0990

www.focusplantcity

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 Mike [email protected]

Office Manager Dede [email protected]

Copy Editor Cheryl [email protected]

Credit Manager Angel [email protected]

Sales Sophia Hyde | Holly FarmerJulie Hasting | Erik Butler | Linda SimmonsBrent Simmons

Production Anthony SassanoTony Cartagena

FOCUS TV Shana Johnson

Distribution Byron SpradlinBelva DeVane

Photographers Billy FriendLori Blaser | Stephanie Humphrey

Staff Writers Cheryl JohnstonBrian West | Joe BowlesDerek Maul | Kelleigh Klein Heather Davis | Laura Estes | Dan Conrod | Kristi Lin-baugh | Heather Davis Megan Braglin | Brittany Cerny

Contributors Al Ruechel | Gil Gott Bruce Rodwell | Jo-An Lusk | Nate Davis

My son’s preschool class recently did the mini science project where they plant seeds in egg cartons and watch the plants grow. He was so excited to water his plant and it was only a matter of days before there was already some greenery and the grass started to grow inside his little carton.

There is instant gratification when planting grass and other small plants, but not everything can be grown so quickly. For example, if you were to plant an orange tree from the seed, it will take years before it will pro-duce its full capacity of fruit. However, much like in life, what we want the most tends to require the most waiting. More often than not, it’s worth waiting for.

Eric Hoyer knows this more than anyone. For more than 30 years he has been working with trees. His roll is to help determine the population of trees and protect the life of the ones that should not be torn down. He discovered his love very young and found a way for his passion to turn into a career. Make sure you check out the spotlight interview this month to

read how Eric is now taking his passion to make an impact on a larger scale.

Shirley Whitney also understands this concept quite well. We interviewed her this month for our feature article on the READ Polk program. Shirley and her team of volunteers help teach adults how to read who either completely illiterate or below a 4th grade reading level. The stories she shares are phenomenal about the difference it can make in an adult’s life who may have spent 30 or 40 years not understanding the world they live in and then all of a sudden being opened to new ideas.

Sometimes the planting of seeds is literal like in my son’s school project or in the trees that Eric protects, but more often it’s metaphorical in the opportunities we are given to plant into others’ lives. When we take the time to share our experiences, knowledge and time with those who need it we can help them grow, just like the little green blossom in the egg carton. However, if we keep our resources to ourselves then everything stays stagnant. We are each called to share our water, soil, seeds and time. If we all share a little we can tremendously impact the world around us when our resources are combined. Are there any resources you’re holding onto that could be helping someone around you? I encourage you to plant.

Mike Floyd - [email protected]

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Polk Public SchoolS

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Science is thriving in Polk County Public Schools. Two local students have garnered special recognition in regional,

state, and international competitions recently, which in turn has inspired potential entrants for the 2012 events.

Trevor Monroe, a senior at Chain of Lakes Collegiate High School in Winter Haven, was a fourth place Grand Award winner at the Intel Science and Engineering Fair, held May 8-13, 2011 in Los Angeles. His project, titled “Boosting Central Heat-Air Conditioning Through Evaporative Cooling”, won 4th place and a $500 prize in the electrical and mechanical engineering competition. CLHS teacher Suzanne Halverson served as his advisor during project development.

Bridget Fetter, director at Chain of

Lakes, expressed appreciation for the accomplishments of Monroe and his advisor, saying, “At Polk State College’s Chain of Lakes Collegiate High School, we offer students an opportunity for rigorous academic study. Trevor’s commitment to his project and Dr. Halverson’s commitment to mentoring students are shining examples of what a commitment to excellence in education can produce.”

Monroe, a Lakeland resident, was one of two Polk students to compete at this international event, where more than 1,600 high school students from nearly 60 countries gathered to showcase an amazing array of research for top prizes of $75,000 and $50,000.

Kirstie Tandberg, a sophomore at Lake Region High School, competed in the

environmental sciences category at Intel. The Winter Haven resident’s project, “Cacti Mucilage And Reverse Osmosis Membranes: A Solution For Water’s Phosphate Problem” was developed under the advisory assistance of Lake Region teacher Lisa Weeks. This is the 3rd year in development, continuation, and competition with this particular project, which attracted much attention and offers of advice from scientists who hope to see it developed to fulfillment. Tandberg was also a state winner in 2010.

Tandberg’s description of the Intel experience bears reading and repeating: “ I love science, so it was an honor to have this chance to compete internationally. We made friends and exchanged souvenir pins symbolizing our states/countries with kids from all over the world. Many plan to stay in touch. To see how students from other countries interacted with each other was fascinating. One group of finalists from an island in the Pacific, I think, blew a conch shell and chanted before they went into judging! In L.A. we were treated like royalty when people found out we were IISEF finalists. The work and dedication of sponsors and volunteers was impressive. So many people were excited for us and said that we could change the world. So many brilliant people gave me tons of ideas and

different directions to take my project… Sometimes negative people comment on how this generation is incapable of leading the world progressively, but they should take some time to talk to these finalists and look at their projects. Students are spending time to find cancer cures or detect land mines because they want to make our world a better place.“

The first step to Intel for both Monroe and Tandberg involved winning Best of Show Awards at the Polk Regional Science and Engineering Fair in January. Next, they won awards in March in Orlando at the 56th Annual State Science And Engineering Fair. For a complete list of winners, visit http://www.polk-fl.net/news/newsreleases/040811.htm.

Obviously, Polk science teachers deserve more than a little credit. Of more than 850 sixth through twelfth graders in Florida competing at the 56th Annual State Science and Engineering Fair in Orlando, ten Polk public school students won awards. Statewide, more than 11,000 students enter projects in 37 regional events, hopeful of a chance to participate at the international level. Our kids and local educators did us proud.

Produces InternatIonaL scIence FaIr comPetItors

WrItten By: Cheryl JohnSton


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Sanctuary for neglected and abuSed horSeS

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not far off Dixie Highway in Auburndale, near Exit 18 of the Polk County Parkway, is a place of

refuge for neglected, severely abused and voluntarily surrendered horses. Whether folks innocently purchase one as a pet without knowing the care involved, breed them for racing and discard once their career has ended, become ill, or lose a job and just cannot care for them anymore, the horses that end up at Hope Equine Rescue are fortunate.

Hope Equine Rescue, Inc. was born out of a desire to not only rescue horses, but to educate the public on the proper care involved in horse ownership. Dani Horton, founder, has been involved with horses and horse rescues her entire life. Her husband Wayne is a ferrier, one who shoes horses. At one time heavily involved with rodeos and

barrel racing, now Dani devotes the majority of her time caring for and training the rescued horses to get them ready for adoption. “Our biggest concern is finding the right home for a horse once it has been completely rehabilitated,” she explained.

Currently the rescue has two

yearlings, Jedediah and Evan, ready for adoption. Dani works closely with other horse rescues in the State of Florida. She says they always have a long list of names waiting for stalls to become available at her operation. In order to be eligible to adopt one of Hope Equine’s rescues, a reference and background check are required, and a visit to the property where the horse will live is imperative. “We can tell a lot about a person or family’s adoptability by the other animals at their property and how well they’re cared for,” elaborates Dani.

Besides the Horton’s personal horses, a few of the rescues not quite ready to be adopted include 29-year old Pretty Boy, a sweet 13-year old mini horse called Sonny, and a 14-year old named Little Bit, who will be available for adoption in about a month. A 13-year old mare used for breeding was

rescued not long ago. Mara is a retired thoroughbred race horse used strictly for breeding since her racing days ended. She was with foal when she came to Hope. Six weeks ago Mara gave birth to a long legged foal that will be ready for adoption at the end of summer or early fall, once he has been gelded. A “no-breed” contract is mandatory.

Hope Equine Rescue, Inc. pays for all medical and maintenance care for the horses until they are adopted. An average rescue costs approximately $2000. Some are higher depending on the condition of the animal and medical needs when it arrives. Adoption fees are only $200 and $500. “I’m not in this to make a profit,” says Horton. “We keep

adoption fees low because the market for horses is low right now. There are too many out there.” To help pay for the care of the rescues, Dani gives riding lessons and trains horses for others.

Supply donations are especially welcome. Items such as fly spray, medicated shampoo, vitamins, supplements, lead ropes, etc. can be purchased at participating local feed stores. For a list of needed items, information on participating stores, other ways to help, or adoptions, phone 863-287-7503, visit www.freewebs.com/hopeequinerescue, or contact Hope Equine Rescue, Inc., 1200 Dixie Dr, Auburndale, FL 33823.

Photos courtesy of Polk Public Schools

HoPe equIne rescue, Inc., auBurndaLe, FLorIda


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At Focus, we set out to try 11 adventures in 2011. So far, our trips have included a bouncy trip to Boing Jump Center, a speedy day of go kart racing at Ambassador Racing School in Wimauma, an exciting angling session of off shore fishing with Lyons Charters and a tactical day of pain at Action Paintball in Winter Haven. After all that excitement, we were all ready for a little relaxation. So we grabbed our shades, sunscreen and swimsuits and set sail... Parasail that is! For our 5th adventure, the Focus team headed to Anna Maria Island and met up with YOLO Parasail for a day of fun in the sun. With their acronym motto, “You Only Live Once”, we knew it would be an unforgettable trip.

The drive to Anna Maria is a pleasant interstate drive, less than 90 minutes from Plant City. Although parasailing is a popular activity at nearly all beautiful Florida beaches, what sets it apart at Anna Maria is the breathtaking views of sparkling blue waters and bright white sandy shores, colors that will make you feel as though you’ve traveled to the Caribbean. However, no passport is needed for travel to this Floridian paradise in our backyard.

YOLO owner Ryan Davis never takes his dream job for granted. Sure, he makes a living soaking up the sunshine, but what he finds most fulfilling is the people. “Everyone is always happy, smiling, ready to have a great time.”

The Focus Magazine fun-seekers are no different. We have been jumping, racing, fishing and shooting. Now we can cross another action verb off our bucket list: “flying.” Mike and DeDe Floyd, Julie Hasting, Angel Carter, Tony Cartagena and I, Shana Johnson, took flight with the seagulls as a smiley face yellow parachute hoisted us in tandem pairs 500 feet in the air. Noticeably missing from the group was the king of kung fu and office IT guru, Anthony Sassano, who conveniently fell ill the morning of the high flying outing.

Despite how it may seem, parasailing is a delightfully tranquil activity. Ryan Davis explained that many of YOLO’s visitors have a common misconception. “Most people do not expect parasailing to be so relaxing. They think it will be a stomach-dropping adrenaline rush like a roller coaster when actually, you feel weightless. You feel like you’re flying like a bird.”Angel and I were the first pair to take flight. Having done it before, I knew what to expect. Angel, on the other hand, had no clue. She had to psyche herself into it, so shortly after boarding the boat she was eager to get up in the air before her resolve acquiescd into second thoughts. It didn’t take long before she was all smiles, as she gracefully soared into the sky. She said the ride was smooth and calming - not what she expected. Surprisingly, her favorite part was the most thrilling... being lowered down to dip her feet in the water.

Julie Hasting also flew with a newbie. Having parasailed many times before, this seasoned pro helped to calm graphic designer Tony during the flight by singing. “I loved experiencing it with Sweet T. He was a little anxious, but he overcame his fear!”

As it was for Angel, the dip was also the highlight for DeDe Floyd. As Julie, Angel, Tony and I shouted, “Take them down. Soak them!” the boat captains followed orders and let Mike and DeDe dip a little more than just their feet. “I loved it!” said Mike. “If I didn’t have that head camera on I would have wanted to be in the water even more!”

The head camera that caused a downplay of DeDe’s dip is our innovative device to capture amazing aerial views for the FOCUSTV video of the trip. Along with leg harnesses and life jackets, it is the perfect parasailing accessory. After checking out our bird’s-eye shots online at focusplantcity.com/category/focustv, grab your camera and capture your own memories at YOLO Parasail of Anna Maria Island! After all, “You Only Live Once!”

Adventure five

Go Online To Check Out THe full Video atwww.focusbrandon.com

Parasailing

focuS takeS flight!WrItten By: sHana joHnson


Parasailing

.com


Mrs. Evelyn Madonia - OwnerWWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COM

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

ThePremierShowplace forTalent inFlorida

JUNE 17 & 25RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

JUNE 18THE MYSTICSThe Mystics, including,original members of thegroup, George Galfo andPhil Cracolici, will performtheir hits, including theirnumber one chart topper“Hushabye.” P.J. Leary’sLas Vegas Sounds performbefore and after the show.

JUNE 24JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary’s Las VegasSounds perform before and after the show.

JULY 1BOBBY PALERMOBobby Palermo brings youa night full of humor,impersonations and highenergy audience interaction.Bobby has received numer-ous National Awards andhas been selected TampaBay’s Entertainer of theYear – 2 years in row!Destiny will open andclose the show.

JULY 2, 8, 16, 29 & 30RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

JULY 9 & 29JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN

ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser!P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Soundsperform before and afterthe show.

JULY 15COVER TO COVERThe trio covers the top hits from yesterday to today!Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before andafter the show.

JULY 22RICHIE MERRITTRichie Merritt, formally of the Marcels, will beperforming in the Red Rose Dining Room.Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform beforeand after the show.

AUGUST 5COVER TO COVERThe trio covers the top hits from yesterday to today!Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before andafter the show.

AUGUST 6, 12, 19 & 27RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

AUGUST 13 & 26JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary’sLas Vegas Sounds perform beforeand after the show.

AUGUST 20LOLA & THE SAINTSDoo Wop At Its Best! Relive the 50s & 60s as though itwas yesterday. “Forever in Love,” “Just Over theBrooklyn Bridge.” Plus, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds.

JUNE 19 is FATHERʼS DAY! Check our Website forinfo on our Fatherʼs Day Brunch and events!

Coming Soon! Wednesday Nightʼs “Southern Family Buffet”starting the evening of JULY 6, 2011

Good for Thursday nights only.Coupon expires - July 15, 2011

Must bring in this coupon for discount.One coupon per person / per check.

FCS

Bring in this coupon to receive

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When you join us for

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Come dressed comfortable... Bowties not required!

RRCalendar_May11:Layout 1 6/1/11 9:27 AM Page 1


Mrs. Evelyn Madonia - OwnerWWW.REDROSEINNANDSUITES.COM

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

ThePremierShowplace forTalent inFlorida

JUNE 17 & 25RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

JUNE 18THE MYSTICSThe Mystics, including,original members of thegroup, George Galfo andPhil Cracolici, will performtheir hits, including theirnumber one chart topper“Hushabye.” P.J. Leary’sLas Vegas Sounds performbefore and after the show.

JUNE 24JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary’s Las VegasSounds perform before and after the show.

JULY 1BOBBY PALERMOBobby Palermo brings youa night full of humor,impersonations and highenergy audience interaction.Bobby has received numer-ous National Awards andhas been selected TampaBay’s Entertainer of theYear – 2 years in row!Destiny will open andclose the show.

JULY 2, 8, 16, 29 & 30RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

JULY 9 & 29JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN

ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser!P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Soundsperform before and afterthe show.

JULY 15COVER TO COVERThe trio covers the top hits from yesterday to today!Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before andafter the show.

JULY 22RICHIE MERRITTRichie Merritt, formally of the Marcels, will beperforming in the Red Rose Dining Room.Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform beforeand after the show.

AUGUST 5COVER TO COVERThe trio covers the top hits from yesterday to today!Also, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds perform before andafter the show.

AUGUST 6, 12, 19 & 27RALPH ALLOCCO& SECOND WINDPerforming in the Red Rose Dining Room

AUGUST 13 & 26JOHNNY ALSTON’SMOTOWN ROCK & ROLL REVUEA dynamite crowd pleaser! P.J. Leary’sLas Vegas Sounds perform beforeand after the show.

AUGUST 20LOLA & THE SAINTSDoo Wop At Its Best! Relive the 50s & 60s as though itwas yesterday. “Forever in Love,” “Just Over theBrooklyn Bridge.” Plus, P.J. Leary’s Las Vegas Sounds.

JUNE 19 is FATHERʼS DAY! Check our Website forinfo on our Fatherʼs Day Brunch and events!

Coming Soon! Wednesday Nightʼs “Southern Family Buffet”starting the evening of JULY 6, 2011

Good for Thursday nights only.Coupon expires - July 15, 2011

Must bring in this coupon for discount.One coupon per person / per check.

FCS

Bring in this coupon to receive

$5OFFYour Entree

When you join us for

Dinneron Thursday

Choose any entreefrom our menu

Join us on Thursday nights this summer in the Polo Club Lounge forfriendly gatherings, great drink specials, dancing and more!

Come dressed comfortable... Bowties not required!

RRCalendar_May11:Layout 1 6/1/11 9:27 AM Page 1


Feature» read PoLk

r e a d P o L k Changes Lives



leaders are readers and READ Polk is doing its part to make certain that Polk County has more than its share.

The countywide non-profit coalition utilizes volunteers from businesses and the community-at-large who are dedicated to improving adult literacy through individual tutoring and instruction. READ Polk has councils in Fort Meade, Lakeland, Haines City/Auburndale, and Lake Wales. Councils arrange for the volunteers and READ Polk does the training.

People who read at or below 4th grade level are considered to be functionally illiterate. Florida has the third lowest adult literacy level of all 50 states, behind California and current reports indicate that approximately 30% of adults in Polk County are marginally literate.

Read Polk works with adults 16 years and older. Grace Vallier is the coordinator in Lakeland. She is currently tutoring an 84-year-old who’s discovering the joy of reading. The teaching strategies used employ phonics. After Grace assigns a trained tutor to a specific student, the two might meet at the Learning Resource Center or in the local library. Weekly sessions are approximately 90 minutes long. For more information, feel free to contact Grace at 863-802-1512.

September is National Literacy Month. This and any month is the perfect time to get involved in making sure that children and adults in your community can read! In honor of this, the annual adult Spelling Bee is held in the Nora Mayo Hall in Winter Haven. This year the fierce but friendly competition is September 22 from 6-9:30 p.m. As the largest fundraiser to benefit READ Polk, the event is always well attended. Corporations sponsor tables at the venue, which allows them a representative who competes in the bee. The traveling trophy is displayed by the winning organization and is always a source of community pride in the fierce but friendly competition. Each year a TV personality emcees the event and two surprise celebrity bartenders that potential attendees won’t want to miss serve up drinks and charm. A silent auction adds to the fun. John Small’s Polk County School Board Workforce Education currently displays the trophy and will have to relinquish it in September unless they prevail again this year!

Shirley Whitney is the new Executive Director of READ Polk. Among her duties are fundraising, community relations,

public relations, and volunteer and board recruiting. She is accountable to the READ Polk board of directors. Her passion is reading and helping others to find enjoyment through reading. She said, “We are proud to provide one-on-one tutoring for adults who want to learn to read and improve their lives.”

The new position seems a perfect fit for Whitney, a member of the Florida Public Relations Association. As the Polk County chapter’s community project chairperson, she coordinates the Fill-a-Bucket for Polk Schools campaign and last year, along with Teresa O’Brien from the school board facilitated a community project,“Style Your Sole”, when the founder of California-based Tom’s Shoes (he prefers to be called the Chief Shoegiver) Brent Mycoski was in

Lakeland at Florida Southern as the speaker for their convocation. College students “love” Tom’s shoes and the fact that they donate a pair of shoes to children in the United States and other countries where children have no shoes.

She retired from Good Shepherd LifePath Hospice after working in the areas of fundraising, community relations, and public relations. She enjoys people and networking, and actually came out of retirement because she truly believes in this READ Polk mission. She said, “Reading has always been important to me and this is why it touches my heart.”

Whitney moved to Lakeland from Decatur, Illinois in 1979 with her husband of 44 years, Dick, to escape the cold and snow. The couple has a son and daughter in the Chicago area and two granddaughters in college. As the Whitneys were raising their children, an unspoken rule in the home was this: Anytime the kids wanted a book, they

got one.

One of her immediate duties is to build the board of directors by recruiting local business professionals or anyone concerned about literacy and education.

Another ongoing responsibility for Whitney is the recruiting of volunteers. Folks need only be willing to help and able to commit a few hours each week. READ Polk will make certain they are equipped to tutor. A recent training day for potential tutors was posted five times in The Ledger. As a result, more than 25 were trained and a number were put on the list to wait for the next session.

The workshop organizers got the attention of trainees at the luncheon served that day.

The menu was posted in Russian to help attendees get a sense of what people who can’t read, feel like. Sadly, people who can’t read, can’t follow directions, read the recipe, complete a job application, or help children with their homework.

Community members who want to avail themselves from surrounding areas can contact READ Polk to be directed to the proper council. The office is located in the Polk County School Board in Bartow. For more information on literacy services or how to become a volunteer tutor, please call 863-797-6253 or e-mail [email protected].

For those who would like to learn, Shirley says, “Call me so I can encourage you. It’s the right thing to do at any age. You are never too old and your life will be enriched. All students are afforded the courtesy of confidentially.” She explained that the big stumbling block with adults is “they are ashamed to admit they can’t read and they

think they’re too old.” The coordinators take special care to assign tutors they think will be a complement to the learners’ particular needs.

Once a client has learned to read proficiently, he or she might be directed to obtain their GED and enter the adult tech school to receive training that might help them find work or better work with an increase in wages.

One young woman, Lynn Tanner, volunteers for a special reason. - to pay it forward. As a young child, she had many learning disabilities. A 5th grade reading teacher helped her so much that it changed her attitude towards school and learning.

“If adults can’t read, they can’t help children, and families lose,” said Whitney. Terry enrolled in the READ Polk program as a 31-year-old eighth grade dropout. Two years later, his reading comprehension levels have improved greatly and he’s a greater asset to his business. Now he’s even tutoring his five-year-old grandson.

Lenka came to the U.S. 13 years ago from the Czech Republic with a dream. But her inability to read meant menial jobs and low pay. When she read a yellow brochure at Dollar General, the title grabbed her attention: “Do You Want to Learn How to Write and Read English?”

In February her tutor suggested she submit her writing online for a contest. Her essay was selected for publication in the 2010 Adult Learner Essay Book for Florida Literacy, making her a published author. She said, “Now every day I wake up and feel so blessed. Thanks to READ Lakeland, I have things in my life to look forward to. I have my dreams back.”

READ Polk would like to thank their dream building sponsors - Mosaic, Publix Supermarket Charities, Polk Education Foundation, NCT (CPAs), Florida’s Natural, and the United Way of Central Florida. Dollar General Corporation helps with grant money. Verizon, Walmart, Bright House Networks, Citizens Bank & Trust, and Sam’s are also supporters.

Visit the READ Polk site (www.readpolk.com) or contact Shirley Whitney at 863-797-6253 for training event detail or volunteer information. Teaching someone to read is a gift like no other.

Feature» read PoLk


a lot of people love their job;

not everyone, but a lot. But

I’m not sure how many

would be willing to ride a bicycle

500 miles to further demonstrate

their love for their work. that’s

what eric Hoyer is preparing to do.

Hoyer, an arborist and avid bike

rider, will compete in a week-long

bike ride in Virginia this october.

Arborist Prepares to

Demonstrate his love for

trees

InterVIeW By: BriAn WeSt

500 Mile Bike Ride set to Raise Money for Tree Research


Focus: I know you’re from New York. What brought you to Florida?

Hoyer: My wife and I had been recently married, right after I graduated. Long story short, I’m from western New York and I was working for a tree service company in Syracuse, New York and I went to work for the tree service company right after I graduated in June. In December of the same year, they told me that they only kept one crew on for the winter and because I was a new hire, I wouldn’t be working over the winter; that they’d rehire me in April. So my choice was to sit around and collect unemployment for 4 months, which didn’t thrill me too much, or to seek something else. So at the time this happened, my wife happened to have a brother who was living down in Ft. Lauderdale. So we moved to Florida and I decided to try to get a job with the State Division of Forestry. I came down to south Florida and interviewed with some folks from the State Division of Forestry. I was hired by them and had about a five year career with them until I went into the private practice.

Focus: So what is your occupation?

Hoyer: I’m considered a consulting forester and a consulting arborist. So anything to do with management of trees in either woodland or timberland settings, as well as in an urban setting is what I do for a living. I work for a firm called Natural Resource Planning Services, Inc. It’s a small company. There are about 22 employees in our firm; six in our San Antonio office in Pasco Count three employees in Gainesville, and the balance is in our Lake City office.

Focus: Can you describe your daily job?

Hoyer: Yes. That’s an interesting question that I hear a lot. I kind of wear two different hats; a consulting forester’s hat and a consulting arborists’ hat. The consulting forester’s hat deals with what we call traditional forest management where we’re hired by, primarily private land owners, but also by some public entities as well, to provide various timber management services. Those services could be appraising the value of timber for a number of reasons; such as an Eminent domain case, or an IRS estate situation. Or we could be hired to prepare a site and plant trees for Mosaic as part of their reclamation. We might get hired to write a forest management plan for a land owner who needs to know what direction

to go with his property. The arborist’s hat includes different types of services and generally involves dealing with different types of trees in an urban setting. We might get hired by a city to do a computerized tree inventory for all the trees a city may own

along their various rights of ways along city parks and so forth. We’ll locate the trees with GPS units and we’ll collect data on each individual tree and make notes on the

size and the maintenance recommendations for the ones that may need to be removed. Generally those types of things are grant-driven. A lot of times, we’re hired to plot trees for a developer; that is usually ordinance-driven. In that case, a Certified Arborist has to make a determination about whether a tree is dead, diseased or dying. Generally, those trees can be removed without any penalty against the developer. And then there are ordinance requirements that if a certain number of trees are removed, the developer will be required to plant a number of trees. So we supply information to help the developer comply with the local ordinances. I also get involved in a lot of litigation between homeowners or different parties involving trees. Some of it is for minor reasons and some isn’t. I might be hired by a homeowner to appraise the value of a tree that was lost in a lightning strike or a dispute with a neighbor, or even for an insurance claim.

Focus: What got you interested in forestry?

Hoyer: I guess I was one of the weird kids who actually knew what I wanted to do when I was about 17 years old. I was always interested in the outdoors and I was real involved in Boy Scouts and camping and just really enjoyed the outdoors. And for whatever reason, I was steered into the forestry profession. Like I said, I knew what I wanted to do when I graduated from high school, so I applied to several universities to go to forestry school. I chose the University of Maine for a couple of different reasons, and I’ve maintained an interest in it ever since. So I guess I’m blessed that way, because I knew right away what I wanted to do. I graduated from the University of Maine, with a degree in forestry in 1976 and I’ve been doing this ever since.

Focus: Tell me about Tour des Trees.

Hoyer: Yes. I’ll be participating in a bike ride called Tour des Trees in October this year. I’m doing this bike ride because it’s supporting a cause that centers on my profession. I can’t remember how many years it’s been going; I want to say 14 or 15 years. It’s sponsored by an organization called the International Society of Arboriculture, of which I’m a member and very involved. Every year, the International Society of Arboriculture has a week-long bike ride prior to their annual meeting, and the ride concludes at the location of the annual meeting; so the ride location changes with the location of the meeting. With the International Society of Arboriculture being international, this year the meeting is in Australia, so a lot of people can’t attend that meeting [in Australia]. So they’re having a ride state- side for those of us who can’t make it to Australia. This year the ride is co-sponsored by one of the International Society of Arboriculture’s chapters – the Mid-Atlantic chapter, and I can’t tell you the exact boundaries for the chapter, but it includes several states around Virginia. So the ride starts in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and concludes in Washington D.C. The

purpose of the ride is to generate monies for the ISA’s research arm called the tree fund – TREE, which stands for Tree Research Education and Endowment fund. That money is given to universities, corporations and other entities that are doing research in various aspects of tree maintenance and tree care. Last year’s ride raised about $441,000 and this year they’re trying to raise $500,000. Each rider is responsible for raising $3,500.

Focus: So what kind of participation do they get for the ride?

Hoyer: Well, this is my first one. It’s something I’ve wanted to do for a number of years and I finally decided to go ahead and do it this year. Obviously it’s grown. I’m sure it didn’t have the number of riders that it does now. I want to say there is somewhere in the range of 100-150 riders. It varies each year, so it’s not a huge group.

Focus: Where will the ride take place and how many miles will you travel?

Hoyer: The ride starts in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and there will be stops in Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown and Monticello. We’ll also do a hundred miles along the Blue Ridge Parkway, travel through Reston, Virginia and conclude in Washington D.C. It’s a 7 day ride and is 500 miles long.

Focus: Are you already an avid bike rider?

Hoyer: Yes. You are correct. I’ve been riding a number of years and I’ve done 5 other week-long rides over the years, just not this particular ride. I’ve done this kind of distance before, although this one will be exceptionally challenging because we’ll be going through some pretty strenuous topography in Western Virginia.

Focus: Florida is flatland. What are you doing to train for the topography?

Hoyer: I belong to a local bike club called PABA (Polk Area Bicycling Association). We have rides every Saturday, some of which ride through eastern Polk County where there are some rolling hills. I will also be in Maine for a week or so in June where I hope to ride a few times.

Focus: What have you done to raise your $3,500?

Hoyer: I have sent out numerous “email blasts” to friends, colleagues, clients, and various other contacts. I am involved in Rotary and several other organizations and I am tapping them as well. In addition, the Florida Chapter of the ISA has pledged $1,000 to me and another rider from Florida. Counting the pledge from the Chapter, I have raised about $1,700 so I’m almost halfway there. The TREE Fund is a 501 (c) 3 organization so all contributions are tax deductible which provides an incentive for some people to contribute.

Hoyer has a passion for his work and bike riding, and it shows. We’d like to wish him the best of luck this October, and in his efforts to raise money for the TREE fund. Good luck, Eric!

sPotLIgHt » erIc Hoyer


there iS no god! So did you hear the big news? The

most intelligent man in the world has declared that belief in a God

is a fairy tale. Amazing stuff. I’d been waiting for years for someone to finally clear the air and set the rest of us straight.

I’m talking about wheelchair-bound British theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking. You do have to respect a man whose only way of communicating is through a computer.

He has spent his life thinking and thinking and theorizing about the origins of all of us from the big bang to dark holes to anti-matter. His writings are brilliant because his explanations are fairly understandable.

He has several websites and even has several TV specials on PBS and the Discovery Channel.Here’s what he said. “I regard the brain as a computer which will stop working when its components fail. There is no heaven or afterlife for broken down

computers; that is a fairy story for people afraid of the dark.”

In his book, The Grand Design, he says there is no need for a creator to explain the existence of the universe. And since there is no absolute proof there is a God or an afterlife science alone can provide us with the truth about how it all started and how it will all end.

If you’ve read any of my articles you know I’m a believer. I don’t make apologies for it and I won’t shove it down your throat.My journey to that discovery of a God occurred at a difficult time in my life when I was 19. Within a span of just a few days I lost my best friend and my cousin and his fiancé in a car accident. I had my come to Jesus moment in a pew

in front of Vernal Hagaruds coffin. It hit me like a bolt of lightning and changed everything about me in an instant.Back to Hawking now.

What I find so curious is that Hawking can so quickly eliminate the presence of a God because he can’t find proof there is a God. True. But can you provide me with any proof there isn’t a God.

There you go again, Al. You can’t disprove a negative. It’s a never ending circle that leads us back to the beginning. And as long as Hawking can offer us an explanation of the beginning there is no room for a God in his equation.

In his book, Brief History of Time, Hawking quotes Einstein who said it would be the ultimate triumph of human reason to develop a theory of everything.

Problem is that theory, or the ones floating around don’t and can’t answer some of the most basic questions about our search for significance. Who programmed our brains to want to feel like our lives must have some purpose? My computer doesn’t ask me why it exists or what caused it to exist. It hasn’t asked me a single question ever.And who lit the match to start the big bang?

And here’s the one that drives me nuts: If the universe and everything in it is constantly expanding than how is it that life, our bodies, animals and all living things did just the opposite and developed what appears to be an intelligent or ordered design from the sub-atomic level all the way out to the nearly infinite realm of millions of galaxies?

I’ll leave you with this one thought. If this printed page represented the entire knowledge of the universe what part of that page would represent what we know about it? I’m guessing not much larger than the period at the end of this sentence.

So Hawking is willing to dismiss this entire page of knowledge for his little period universe where God is just a myth and a coping mechanism?

Now, who is being closed minded!

extra » aL reucHeL

WrItten By: Al reuChelor Is tHere?


entertaInment » dInIng ProFILe

lAkelAnD:2120 hArDen BlvD. lAkelAnD, Fl 33803 863-603-7080

hourS oF oPerAtion:MonDAy - SAturDAy 7 A.M. - 8:30 P.M. (6 A.M. in PlAnt City)SunDAy 8:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M.

FreD’S Southern kitChen

fred’S Southern kitchenAcouple of months ago we took a trip to

Fred’s Southern Kitchen in Lakeland and ate selections from the buffet

like we would never be eating again (www.focuslakeland.com). Then we immersed your senses in a detailed report on our experience, and we hope you afterwards got a chance to check out one of their locations. This month, we went to the Plant City restaurant and enjoyed another fulfilling meal. Once again, we talked about the food all the way back to the FOCUS mobile. This time, though, we didn’t just go for the food - what we were most interested to see was the innovative program Fred’s is experimenting with - it’s as fresh an idea as their food is Southern.

Fred’s has just introduced the Waste Not, Want Not program. “Prices of gas have gone up so much, and as a result a lot of restaurants are trying to raise their prices,” said Lauren Elmhorst, Director of Marketing for Fred’s. “But we don’t really want to have to do that, so what we’re doing is providing discounts to people who don’t create an excessive amount of waste.” That’s

right, the rest is what you think it is - simply don’t throw away a bunch of food, and you will actually see a discount on your bill. Sound like a good idea? It is - less waste equals less expense, which equals lower prices. And so far, people are glad to try the program. “We’re getting a positive response,” Elmhorst said.

How exactly is the program implemented? Fred’s wants patrons to know they are still free to do as they wish, since that’s why they pay to eat out. “We don’t want people to feel like they are being watched [in regards to the program]. People can make as many trips to the buffet as they like,” said Lauren. “If your waitress sees you didn’t pile up on food that wasn’t eaten (a large amount), the discount will automatically apply, and that’s it. We encourage our guests to enjoy as many dishes from our buffet as they desire, and we certainly don’t want people to feel like they have to finish every crumb. We are just helping them to be more conscious about the impact that food waste has on prices. We’re doing everything we can to not let our customers feel the brunt of rising food costs.

We find our guests really appreciate this.”

Elmhorst thinks customers should be aware of a key principle that motivates the staff at all Johnson family restaurants: “At Fred’s we understand the importance and value of families eating together. We think about that in every decision we make. We see the Waste Not, Want Not program as a perfect way to partner with families to help their children learn to make healthy and responsible eating choices.”

So, what kind of food will we be saving money on, exactly? Fred’s Southern Kitchen serves food you might expect at a Southern banquet. They stick with the basics and they do them right: Fried Chicken, seasoned and juicy; mashed potatoes with thick gravy; homemade macaroni and cheese which has just as much butter as it does cheese and many other major country staples like large warm buttered rolls, barbeque ribs, and corn bread. During our most recent trip, we tried, among a slew of other things, the Fried Green Tomatoes. They are sprinkled with batter and give a hint of tart. Both butter

and cheese fight for your attention in the macaroni and cheese. The Italian style green beans are tender and also buttery. Generally speaking, the food is rich, but not too much so. Fred’s knows exactly how to serve you hearty, delicious Southern Cooking - the kind you’ll crave and return for over and over again!

WrItten By: John roSSFInds neW Way to keeP PrIces LoW


lakeland caLendaroF eVents

entertaInment » eVent caLendar

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

[email protected]

thurSday, June 16, 2011» Emerge Gets Fit at The Y11:30am - 1:00pm3620 Cleveland Heights BlvdThe Branch Director & Community Director will be sharing the new branding plan recently unveiled for the Y, community outreach programs and volunteer opportunities available. In addition, tours of the new facilities will be given upon request. Make sure you bring your business cards to enter a raffle for a free 1 month membership to the Y! You won’t want to miss this opportunity to get in the know about fitness and health, especially as summer is fast approaching! Please R.S.V.P. by June 14 at 5:00 P.M on the EMERGE website. Member Cost: $15.00 per member. Guest Cost: $20.00 per guest.

thurSday, June 16, 2011» Florida Southern College MBA Open House6:00pm111 Lake Hollingsworth DrTake your career to the next level. As a Florida Southern MBA student, you will develop the skills necessary to lead an organization, a small business, or a large company. Attend an open house to learn more about this innovative program. Choose either our weekday or Saturday option and earn your degree in just 16-months.

Saturday, June 18, 2011» Customer Swap Meet & Disaster Relief Fundraiser10:00am4202 Lakeland Hills BlvdThe Swap Meet is open to all vendors and individuals who would like to participate. Pre-registration is required as space is limited. There is a $25.00 registration donation for vendors and a $10.00 donation for individuals.

Monday, June 20, 2011» Garden Lecture Series: Native Plants and Their Role in Landscape6:30pm1700 N Florida AveThe City of Lakeland Beautification Board and Lakeland Parks & Recreation present a series of Garden Lectures to help keep Lakeland Green & Beautiful. These programs are perfect for the do-it-yourself garden enthusiast!

friday, June 24, 2011» Classic Albums Live Presents: Beatles Help8:00pm - 10:00pm701 W. Lime StreetAdvance ticket price: $20, $25 Pit $25, $30 Pit -Day of show DOUBLE FEATURE INCLUDED WITH CONCERT TICKET! Come early and enjoy a special screening of The BEATLES’ CLASSIC FILM HELP! Movie begins at 6:30 pm - FREE POPCORN Parking $7 The concept behind Classic Albums Live is simple. Classic albums are faithfully recreated live on stage note for note, cut for cut by a group of highly accomplished musicians, assembled specifically for each album presentation. It is not a tribute act however. The performers do not dress up or act the part of the featured artists. It is like a recital, the shows presented just as the New York Philharmonic would perform the works of Mozart. The result is amazing. These presentations have to be seen to be believed.

friday, July 01, 2011» First Friday - Red, White & Kaboom6:00pm - 9:00pm100 S Kentucky AveCome early and enjoy great food, shopping, music and activities along the

streets of Downtown courtesy of The General Store and FastFrame! It’s a great family activity that can be enjoyed all year long.

thurSday, July 14, 2011» Schmooze A’ Palooza11:30am - 1:00pm4810 S Florida Ave

Power networking the Chamber way! Meet up to 20 contacts over lunch while enjoying the delicious food prepared by Beef O’ Brady’s Family Sports Pub. Participants will share their 30-second commercials with a group of 50. Seating is limited. Reservations are Required. This is a Member Only Event.

it’s not neWS, it’s liFe.

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

difference in the community

- email us at: [email protected]


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