Seretha Tinsley expects great things of others – especially young people

Interview by Brian West | Photos by Aldo Trevino

Seretha Tinsley has experienced a lot of success in her life, and it wasn’t handed to her. She and her husband worked hard and started their own business. They’re Franchisees for KFC and TGI Friday’s, and they’ve been successful enough to involve both of their children in the business. But Tinsley is also known for her volunteer work in the community.

She is known as the one who shows up with her sleeves rolled up to help when she’s needed most. At its 30th anniversary conference in Indianapolis, the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. Seretha was surprised to be awarded the national President’s Award for exemplary service.

Focus: Tell me where you’re from originally.
Tinsley: Louisville, Kentucky.

Focus: What brought you to Florida?
Tinsley: It was a lot of moves. I was offered the position of General Manager of WPDQ Radio Station in Jacksonville, Florida. So I moved to Florida and my family moved here three months after that. We were in Jacksonville for three years.

Focus: Do you have any brothers and sisters?
Tinsley: Yes. I have two brothers and a sister. One brother is in Miami and he owns a social media business. My other brother is in Louisville and he is the Assistant to the Mayor. And my sister owns a nail business in Louisville.

Focus: Tell me about your immediate family.
Tinsley: We have two children, Penni and George. Penni is 35 and George is 33. Our first company, PenGeo is named after them. That’s the KFC side of our business. George II runs our Tinsley Family Concessions side of the business.

Focus: How did you meet your husband?
Tinsley: He’ll tell you one story, and I’ll tell you the truth. We both went to Male High School in Louisville, Kentucky. I didn’t really know him in high school, but we both went to the same college. I didn’t really know him there, either. There were 11 African American men at the college I went to, which was Kentucky Wesleyan College in Louisville, and I was the only African American girl. You might imagine that everyone on campus was trying to pair me up with someone. On Sadie Hawkins Day I was paired up with George. All the girls chased him down for me because they thought we’d make a good couple. I got paired up with him and we dated and eventually got married.

Focus: What’s the story he would tell everyone?
Tinsley: He would say that I chased him in high school and followed him to college.

Focus: How did you get started in your businesses?
Tinsley: My husband, George, had worked for Kentucky Fried Chicken as a Trainer, in Louisville. When I was transferred to Florida with my job, he became a franchise representative with Kentucky Fried Chicken. His job at the time was setting up Franchisees in the state of Florida. As he was traveling, he saw a location in Auburndale, and said we needed to look at it. So we came to Auburndale and sat on the corner and counted cars. He said that was the place for us to start our business. In 1982, we made an offer with them. So I quit my career in the radio business. You needed to have knowledge to run a successful restaurant, so I went to chicken school to learn about chicken. I knew nothing about the chicken business. I went to work for a Franchisee in one of their restaurants for a couple of weeks so that I could get hands-on experience.

George Sr. and I started with the KFC side of the business and that’s PenGeo. Auburndale was our first location, then Haines City and then Baseball City. The story about Baseball City is very interesting. I often share this story with people, because today you may be in business, but tomorrow you may be out of business. We purchased the land at Baseball City when everything was alive and going strong. A month later they closed their doors with no notice. We kept the business, but closed it after about three years. One thing about business is that you have to know when to close.

Focus: Tell me about your involvement in the community.
Tinsley: It started when I was very, very, young. I wanted to do missionary work because at that time, it wasn’t the norm for a woman to be a minister. When I graduated from college, I went to Africa because I wanted to learn more about what people needed in the world. I realized after I went there that other countries were more versatile than we were. I realized that we needed more help here in America.

So I have three philosophies that I live by – to whom much is given much is required, do unto others, as you would have others do unto you, and to thy own self be true. Those are the things that my mother and father instilled in me, and it’s how I live my life. All of my life I’ve given back.

I was the Youth Advisor for the NAACP and I work with the YMCA Achievers. My philosophy when I was working with the youth was that if you expect a lot from a young person, they’d give you that and more. My expectation of everyone around me is that I’m going to give them everything I have, so I expect them to give me everything they have. I get to touch the lives of young people that others may not expect to do anything. That’s the payback. These are the ones that when I expect them to do something, they exceed all my expectations. I’ve worked as a judge in the Vocational category for the Silver Garland Awards for several years now, and that’s probably one of the greatest things I get to do. I get to see all these young people in our community who are doing wonderful, wonderful things.

I was a teacher for three years. I taught 5th grade elementary. Although I left the education system years ago, it was still my passion, even in our businesses. Most people may not understand that our livelihood depends on teenagers on the KFC side of the business. So we’re still educating everyday. We’re usually their first job. So we want to use the opportunity to prepare them for the world. So community service is just something that’s in me.

I’m also the Director of Leadership Training for COLA – Chain of Lakes Achievers. COLA is an organization that Faye Bellamy and I started. We do an outreach to all the youth in the community. They come to us and I work with them on leadership skills and Faye works with them on tutoring, and we do it all for free. So it gives us a way to give back. I’ve found that people will give what you expect of them. If you expect bad, they’ll give you bad. If you expect good, they’ll give you good.

Just in the past few years we started something called Clothe the Child. My mother had an organization called Clothe the Child Food for the Elderly. All of my life as a child, on Christmas day, we couldn’t have Christmas in our home until we did something for someone else. We had to get up on Christmas morning and go pick up other kids and take them to shop and then back home. A local store opened just for us to provide Christmas for over 200 kids. We started the same organization in Polk County. Our COLA kids pick up other kids on the week before Christmas and take them shopping. We give the COLA kids calculators. We give them a budget, and they’re only allowed to buy clothes and one gift for someone in their family, and then we take them to breakfast. We find that it is probably the most phenomenal thing we do, teaching young people to give back. And we’re teaching those that don’t have anything, that they have to give back too. When a kid comes to COLA, the only thing they have to do is sign a contract that they will do what has to be done. That’s it.

Focus: Where do you think community involvement is headed for future generations?
Tinsley: I think the system is trying to keep community involvement in the forefront of the minds of our young people. My philosophy is a little bit different. I think young people today will duplicate what they see. They will repeat what they hear if that’s all you want them to do. I think we have to be careful that we don’t create a system that just encourages a young person to simply regurgitate what we teach them. That concerns me. We have to teach and challenge them to think.

Take community service hours as an example. That’s why I love the Silver Garland Awards. We’re not just awarding the number of hours they have, we’re looking at what they’ve done with their talents and skills and how they’re giving back. I think if we don’t go back to the basics and start giving young people what they need to survive and expect them to rise to the standards we’ve set, then we’re failing them. If the standard is that you need 200 hours of community service, many young people will simply work to get those hours. But if the standard is to do community service work to give back and make a difference, then the end result is that that the reward will mean more. Someone said it best, ‘If we don’t invest in the knowledge, faith and expectations in young people, then we will be rolled around in wheel chairs that won’t work.

Focus: What were your challenges as minority in business?
Tinsley: We would not have been successful getting into business if it had not been for the Jesse Jacksons that were pushing for capitalization for minorities. But no matter what gift or opportunity you’re given, it’s not the gift or the opportunity; it’s what you do with it that matters. We went into business together, which was very challenging at best – going into business with your spouse, not to mention being minorities. We were very assertive individuals, and he was an athlete so he was about winning. But what kept us in business was working at it. We were there 24/7, 365. We’re still there every day. We may not be at the restaurant, but we’re still working the business. You have to give your best. The average business, regardless of what it is, will go out of business within the first 5 years. As an African American, sometimes when you start to have money come in you feel an obligation to give it away; that other minorities may think that because you’ve made it you need to give them some. That was the hardest part to manage. You have to budget and know what to give and what to keep. That’s why I try to support other African Americans who’ve gone into business.

Focus: Can you share a lighthearted moment for you, in business?
Tinsley: When George and I started working together, we quickly realized that we were going to have to learn how to tell each other off without saying anything to each other. We didn’t want the employees pitting one of us against the other. One day he said, “Do this!” And I said, “I’m not going to do that. I quit!” He said, “You can’t quit.” I said, “Why not?” And he said, “Because you own the business.”

Tinsley is one of those people that you just can’t help but want to be around. She’s just easy to like. Her efforts in the community have paid great dividends in the lives of those she’s worked with, both directly and indirectly. Thanks so much for all your efforts. We wish you continued success in all you do.

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Celebration is set for February 16, 2012 at Keel & Curley

Ten years ago this month, Focus Magazine published its first issue. It’s hard to believe how quickly that time has passed. As we look back over the stories we’ve covered, one emotion overwhelms us – gratefulness. We’re grateful for you – our readers, advertisers, vendors, and contributors.

From one edition in 2002 to the six we publish monthly now, it’s been a growing and learning experience. Just like any business, we’ve faced challenges and experienced some ups and downs. Thankfully, mostly ups. But here we are today, still thrilled to be doing what we love – sharing your joys and connecting our community.

Thank you, Winter Haven (and Brandon, Lakeland, Plant City, Lake County, and South Tampa) for your support and encouragement, for your cooperation and enthusiasm, for your suggestions and critique – your input has been critical to our company. We feel privileged to report our community good news and honored that you trust us to do it right. We could not have done it without you.

And it seems like “thanks” is just not enough to show our appreciation. We’ve tried to help in practical ways, too.

As we’ve grown, we’ve worked to add tools to help our advertisers and our readers utilize the media we present to their best advantage. For example, bi-weekly e-blasts keep folks reminded of local events, great deals at restaurants, and business specials. We also post coupons on myfocuscoupons.com, just in case you’ve missed or deleted an e-blast.

We all enjoy reading your comments on our Facebook fanpage and we’ve been excited to see how many more of you are following regularly. You are the heartbeat of this magazine, so please keep those comments coming.
We’ve strived to make our websites user friendly and we’ve incorporated periodic Focus TV segments for your interest. This year our goal is to provide video tours of every advertiser so our readers can go inside and be inspired to buy local.

Like any small business, we’ve faced challenges through the years and we understand the difficulties of a tougher economic climate. Thank you for continuing to believe in our mission and for helping our community to stay connected as you’ve shared your events, stories, trials, challenges, and triumphs.

Speaking of challenges, we had a goal this year. To bond our staff together a little more, we planned to tackle “11 Big Adventures” in 2011. Sometimes plans from one year have to roll over into the next. Such is the case with our big adventures dream. We started strong by go-cart racing, parasailing, deep-sea fishing, BOINGing (trampolining), and paintballing together (and we’ve heard that you liked the reports). But busy schedules, publication deadlines, and family obligations meant we had to postpone some. So, in 2012 this plan continues.

Focus editorial content has always been built around our readers’ suggestions for great stories and their feedback. What touches us most is how you respond to specific issues throughout the year. We always have fun planning the cover shoots for the new Strawberry Festival Queen and Court and for our Makeover issue. We’re always touched with the appreciation shown by the four Makeover winners each year and we love celebrating their new looks at the evening’s dinner. This year was especially touching to us because of the death of winner Vicki Hannah, Her son Taylor still holds a special place in our hearts.

We love firsts, too, and had a great time showcasing the 1st Annual Cutest Kids contestants on Facebook and in the magazine. We’re expecting it to be an even bigger event this year.
We have a responsibility to report on as much local news as we can fit into the magazine each month. To do this, we will strive to build our advertising base so we can add more editorial content, as this is what makes that possible. Here’s a shout out to those loyal advertisers who run ads with us each month. That loyalty makes Focus possible.

To celebrate our Ten Year Anniversary, we have a plan and we hope you will join us.

If there is one thing our readers, advertisers, and the subjects of our stories have taught us, it’s the power of giving back and of caring about our neighbors, especially when there’s a need.

Our plan this year involves an effort to benefit the United Food Bank of Plant City through an adjunct to their annual signature fundraiser, the Celebrity Chef Dinner.

Join us Thursday, February 16, 2012 for our Annual Reader’s Choice Awards when we will recognize the winners from the votes cast by locals for favorite restaurants in several different categories.

This evening also involves the monthly After Hours celebration with the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, which makes it one of the largest Thursday night gatherings of the year. Several hundred usually attend to mix and mingle and have a little fun. We’d like you to be there.

To help the United Food Bank, we encourage everyone to make a donation as they enter the party at Keel and Curley Winery on the night of the 16th. The celebration will include live entertainment and great food from some of the local favorites. It’s a great chance to catch up with your friends in the community and it’s a great cause.

We also encourage you to purchase tickets for the Celebrity Chef Dinner, scheduled for Saturday, February 18 at the Trinkle Center, and also to consider becoming a sponsor.

Once again, Winter Haven, we’re proud to serve this wonderful community. Without you, there would be no Focus. Here’s to even greater years ahead. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

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Written By: Valerie McCutcheon

We visited The Seasoned Stone recently for their Signature Saturday Island Branch and knew immediately this would not be a typical chain dining experience.

The cheery yellow house with fuchsia trim has a welcoming green door. Strains of island music drifted down from the covered patio dotted with paper lanterns and we discovered Chef Rex Harris cooking authentic Caribbean roti on the front porch.

The Seasoned Stone, opened in August 2011, expands on the success of R & R Chutney, a company Rex and his wife Kim started in 2009 to sell homemade island versions of traditional Indian chutneys such as the popular Pineapple-Mango Chutney.

Originally from Grenada, the “Isle of Spice,” Rex has lived throughout the Caribbean, including Trinidad and The Bahamas. He also served 24 years in the U.S. Navy, which allowed him to travel worldwide. He incorporates this varied culinary knowledge into every creation. Even the restaurant’s name came from his early childhood memories of cooking on three flat “seasoned stones” recessed in the ground.

The interior decorations make you feel like you’ve just been invited to stay awhile in a trendy yet intimate home. Bright yellow walls, “but not too bright, just the perfect shade to reflect our personality,” explains Kim, are set off by black and white furniture and turquoise accents. Comfy armchairs, small tables and a functional bench accompany a funky black and white pub table and more traditional table for four. Further inside, the Mango Room beckons with pops of purple, green, and orange.

On this particular beautiful Florida afternoon, we sat at one of the outdoor tables in the front yard and were soon served glasses of a refreshing mint infused water. Flavors for the waters change daily, as do menu selections. Menus are released weekly that feature specials for each day. Always available are fresh options in the deli display such as chicken and pasta salads, antipasto, hummus and salsas.

The Seasoned Stone’s fresh ingredients are taste-apparent in every dish. Local ingredients are used whenever possible and seafood is never farm-raised.

The Saturday Island Brunch features made to order sweet and savory crepes and Rex’s specialty: homemade roti filled with vegetarian or chicken curry. Roti is a type of unleavened bread made from flour and ground split peas, similar to naan. Prepared fresh each Saturday, they have become so popular that some regulars drive over from Lakeland to pick up to-go orders.

Our dining experience began with a meatless antipasto. Not your traditional heavy Italian antipasto, this featured fresh greens, olives, artichokes, chickpeas, onion and fennel, mixed with the perfect amount of dressing.

Next came the main course – a savory crepe stuffed with orzo, asparagus, feta, carrots and juicy fresh tomatoes wrapped in a light and fluffy batter. Also delicious was the strawberry/pineapple filled sweet crepe topped with a decadent berry glaze with a hint of rum. We also sampled a delicately-crusted, perfectly-spiced vegetarian curry roti with potatoes, sweet potatoes, onion, chickpeas and red peppers. The portions were generous, and our take-home box of roti tasted just as good reheated at home.

The Seasoned Stone prides itself on featuring hand-selected wines hard to find anywhere else in Polk County. Don’t bother asking for a Bud Light…here, it’s more appropriate to kick back with an ice cold Carib or Red Stripe! They also make their own red and white sangrias. We sampled the deliciously fruity white sangria with splashes of Noble Brand tangerine juice and lemonade, as well as the refreshingly sweet non-alcoholic guava lychee nectar.

The popular spot to grab a quick, healthy weekday lunch or spend a relaxing Saturday afternoon is also a great venue for bridal or baby showers and birthday parties. The Mango Room, which comfortably seats eight, is often reserved for meetings and book clubs. Free Wi-Fi is also available.

At $9.50 for lunch and $11.50 for dinner, The Seasoned Stone is definitely affordable. This great addition to the downtown Winter Haven area eateries provides a unique dining experience. We thoroughly enjoyed our relaxing brunch with new friends, and we’re certain the ever-changing menu will keep us coming back for more!

The Seasoned Stone

132 Avenue B SW
Winter Haven, FL 33880
info@theseasonedstone.com
Facebook: The Seasoned Stone
863-875-5756
Fax Orders: 863-232-5046
Hours of Operation:
Monday & Saturday: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Tuesday -Thursday: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Friday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

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Written By: Cheryl Johnston

An impressive list of clients credits the “2011 Small Business of the Year” award-winning marketing firm of Clark/Nikdel/Powell (CNP) for their organizations’ successes. And that’s exactly what CNP strives for – success for its customers.

One sure sign that a firm accomplishes its mission is increased business through word-of-mouth referrals and networking recommendations. These have proven invaluable in CNP’s 20 years of solid growth. According to partner and Web Development Director Alex Nikdel, the firm is proud of its “long history of long-term client relationships.”

Clark/Nikdel/Powell, established by Christine Nikdel and Jerry Clark in 1991, evolved from a graphic design studio into today’s integrated marketing agency. CNP’s 16-member team provides expertise in advertising, design, public relations, brand development, Web and social media services. From research and concept development to communication and measurement, the team works to ensure clients effectively reach their target audiences.

In every step of the process, CNP strives to “deliver more than is expected” and to “respond immediately to its clients needs with creativity and flexibility.” The firm designs and coordinates numerous services for creative branding, public relations, and web development. Be sure to visit www.clarknikdelpowell.com for an exhaustive list of the full service advertising agency’s capabilities.

CNP also “gives back” in big ways to its Polk County home base. Over the last several years, the team has donated hundreds of hours through pro-bono services, active volunteerism, marketing help and board memberships for numerous non-profits. According to the youngest partner Alex Nikdel, “We love sharing our skills with organizations and causes we feel passionately about.”

The music-loving outdoor enthusiast and company president Chris Nikdel describes herself as “passionate about great design and the value of art in our culture.” With art degrees from the University of Massachusetts and University of Florida and more than 30 years of experience in advertising/design studios in Los Angeles, Hartford, Gainesville and Melbourne, Australia, she is an expert in creative planning, campaign concepts and execution/supervision of all print materials, package/signage and trade show exhibit design.

The Lakeland native vice-president, Anne Powell, is also a proud Florida Gator (B.A. in Graphic Design). With more than 30 years of agency experience in print media for tourism, business and industry, clients benefit from her fresh and original work that has garnered numerous local and state advertising awards, including two best-of-show designations. Powell serves CNP as vice-president.

Winter Haven native, “rabid Gator Fan” and web development director Alex Nikdel, 26, is active in the Winter Haven Young Professionals (YP) Group and Leadership Winter Haven Class 32. Alex earned a Bachelor’s in Industrial and Systems Engineering (2007) and joined CNP in 2009 after Walt Disney World work as a practicing industrial engineer.

CNP adds “substance + style” to their clients’ marketing efforts. The firm’s website says it best: “We strive to go beyond expectations for our clients every day … every time. We are always fair and act at the highest level of integrity in our business practices. We focus on strategic and tactical solutions we believe are right for the client. We create a work culture for our team that encourages collaboration, support, teamwork and positive spirit.”

Alex Nikdel offers wise advice to clients: “In advertising and marketing, we must understand our clients’ businesses to provide them with solid recommendations. Advertising shouldn’t be viewed by a business as COSTING it money, but rather as MAKING it money. We’re essentially consultants, and my favorite part about this job is learning those little nuances in our clients’ businesses.”

Whatever your company’s needs might be, Clark/Nikdel/Powell will produce results to increase your market presence or fundraising efforts and establish unique branding for your products and name. Money invested wisely, for sure.

CNP • Clark/Nikdel/Powell

62 4th Street N.W.

Winter Haven, FL 33881
863.299.9980


http://clarknikdelpowell.com

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Mayor of Davenport

Interview by Cheryl Johnston | Photos courtesy of the Rust family

Perhaps the most important thing that contributes to the success of Polk County’s communities is people – those who serve and those who believe that giving back will make a difference that counts for the future.

Pete Rust is one such man. As the current Mayor of Davenport, Rust works tirelessly, along with Harriet, his wife of 49 years, to ensure that the City continues to thrive and grow. She describes him as “a man of his word whose family and city are his greatest concerns.”

Pete has loved this town since he moved here 60 years ago and that zeal is greater than ever. Enjoy his responses to our questions this month and be inspired by a man who puts thoughts into action.

Hello, Pete! First, let us congratulate you and your lovely wife Harriet on 49 years of marriage. Thank you also for responding to our questions on the day of your anniversary, December 27. We trust you had a great celebration.

Focus: Would you first describe your family?
RUST: As you’ve mentioned, I’ve been married to Harriet for 49 years. We have three children living in close proximity of which we are very proud: John who works with Center State Bank; Michael who works with Verizon; and Sara Roberts who works with the Randy Roberts Foundation. We also have three grandchildren.

Harriet and I met in high school and were married in the now 100-year-old Davenport United Methodist Church, which we attended. That building is gone, but we’re still members today.

She owned Azalea Hill, a florist and gift shop on South Boulevard, for 45 years. We also opened a seasonal shop in the ‘90s called Just Christmas and enjoyed every minute of that time. Harriet is skilled at machine embroidery and has always enjoyed showcasing/learning the city’s history. She is very community-minded and also an excellent event planner for City events, which she implements with the help of others as well. Two words describe her essence – family and community. She is my right hand and we are a team.

Focus: How did you come to live in Davenport?
RUST: I was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and lived during my 4-1/2 year military service term in San Diego, St. Simons Island off the Georgia coast and Beaufort, South Carolina. I moved to Davenport when my father retired from the Philadelphia Electric Company in 1952.

Focus: What about your education and military training?
RUST: I graduated from Haines City High School in 1958 and attended the University of Florida from 1958-1961. In the United States Marine Corps I served with the long range and ground control radar teams.

Focus: So, how did you become involved with the City Commission?
RUST: I served on the Davenport City Council from 1968-1970 in order to change the makeup of the Council to a Commission. After my military retirement there was more free time to become involved again. I served then as Mayor from 1993 to 2002, when I resigned to attend to my sister. Later, I was appointed by the Council to fill a vacant seat in 2006. This current term is from 2008 until 2013.

Focus: Would you give us an overview of this Commission’s personality and membership?
RUST: We changed to Commission structure from the prior Council structure with a Charter revision in 2008. I would describe the Commission today as conservative in its discussion, with very little dissention regarding the concerns of the Community.

Focus: What is the most challenging part of your work? The most inspiring part?
RUST: The challenges include keeping the community moving forward in a positive direction; creating commercial as well as residential growth without falling backward with the infrastructure in the current environment. The most inspiring part is to see how well the activities of the city meet with positive attitudes and an appreciation for giving something back to the community from the residents and employees participating.

Focus: How do you spend your time when you’re not working?
RUST: Since retiring, I spend most of the time maintaining our property, but I have found a new hobby. That is assembling LEGO kits for myself and for my grandchildren.

Focus: What do you enjoy most about the work you do with the Commission or Council?
RUST: Presently it is seeing plans finally come to fruition within our community: i.e. Police Station and City Park Restoration, as well as advancing our infrastructure, such as water and sewer.

Focus: Are there particular civic or local projects or efforts that you enjoy more than others?
RUST: I enjoy working with my wife and others on the yearly events, such as the November events of Quilts & Tea and the Horse Creek Festival, and the upcoming Original Florida Highwaymen Weekend Extravaganza to be held the first Friday & Saturday in March. She is also the current president of The Davenport Historical Society, which has been active since 1995 when our historic district was added to the National Historic Registry of Historic Places.

Focus: What do you enjoy most about the eastern Polk County and Davenport community?
RUST: I enjoy just being a longtime part of the Ridge section of Polk County and I have especially enjoyed being a long-term resident of Davenport for 60 years. Harriet loves its quaintness and family-oriented flavor. This is our home.

Focus: Why would you encourage others to become involved?
RUST: If you care about your community and wish to see it thrive and be active, you need to be involved personally, either by volunteering to serve on boards or committees or just becoming a part of the action. The success of anything is always measured by the commitment of its participants.

Focus: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
RUST: Hopefully, we (the City) will be better that we currently are, with some new growth in the areas of commerce and residential development.

As we close this out, Cheryl, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize all those persons who have come to serve before me and who were instrumental in keeping the community alive and moving forward. People who have and do love Davenport have made this happen.

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A Tiny Town with a Big Heart for People, History, and Art

By Cheryl Johnston

The small but lively city of Davenport, Florida is a busy place. One only needs look at the City’s webpage to discover a variety of well-organized family events throughout the year.

Located in the Central Florida Highlands area of the Atlantic coastal plain, Davenport’s charm and warmth draw visitors into another time. A vibrant historic and business district provides character and stability for the families who’ve chosen to call the “Gateway to the Ridge” their hometown.

The history began in January 1839 when the U.S military set up Fort Davenport. The fort only lasted a few years, but the settlement remained and the city was incorporated in 1915.

Strategically positioned in the Ridge area of the Sunshine State with US Hwy 17/92 the main north/south thoroughfare, Davenport is only eight miles south of Interstate 4. Easy access in every direction makes travel east to Orlando, west to Lakeland/Tampa, north to Kissimmee and south to Haines City a simple process. The good news is that the “busyness” of traffic and the explosive growth north of I-4 along US 27 have not affected the City’s charm.

At 138 feet above sea level, Davenport proper occupies only 1.7 square miles, with 0.1 square mile of that being the beautiful Lake Play. Gentle rolling hills intersperse the flatland terrain.
As of April, 2010 the University of Florida estimated the population at 2,961 for the incorporated area.

Economically the City continues to grow as redevelopment of various family amusement parks and entertainment venues continues. Creativity abounds here as well, as evidenced in art, crafts, mechanics, and technology.

The City is well managed with a City Manager, who is Amy Arrington, Commission, Mayor, who is Pete Rust, and employees who care deeply about their community’s heritage and future. Add to that an organized infrastructure and strong public support and you have a town with its act together.

And those events throughout the year weave a ribbon of connection between business and family, tradition and progress, and people and place. To discover the bonds for yourself, do plan a trip soon to check out one of the following:

Cruise In

On the second Saturday monthly, folks gather on Bay Street downtown to admire antique and other vehicles and share news with their neighbors from 2-6 PM in winter and 4-8PM during the summer.

The Hotel Davenport and Hotel Tea Room

This Southern classic experience offers refined elegance in a historic location filled with collectibles. The restored Victorian-style dining room provides an unforgettable stroll down memory lane.

The Hotel serves Southern Family Style on Tuesday nights with reservations only.

Friday night steak night, according to locals, is “a biggy – the best steaks around.” Reservations though not required, are suggested, since it’s a local favorite.

The award winning cupcakes and desserts of Hilton Gourmet baker Andy Hilton are offered at the hotel. Andy and Samantha participated in the Cup Cake Wars for Food Network in 2011, although they did not win.

Carriage rides available also.

Breakfast is served on Tuesdays through Fridays.

Call toll free 888-355-1287, or e-mail thehoteldavenportfla@yahoo.com for information. Visit 301 West Maple Street in Davenport, Florida 33836-0097 and bring friends.

Annual Highwaymen Art Reception and Festival

The Original Florida Highwaymen Weekend Extravaganza event will feature 9 of the original Florida Highwaymen artists, March 2-3, 2012. On Friday night, dine with an artist at your own table, with an auction afterwards of original art, by each artist.
The proceeds of this 2nd annual event will benefit the Arts/Culture of Davenport. For tickets, call the Davenport City Hall: 863-419-3300.

Also enjoy the free art show open to the public in the historic downtown on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Trash to Treasure Sale

Annual Community Yard Sales on Bay Street in Davenport; Usually 1st Saturday in February, May, and October from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.; $5.00 per space (Vendors do their own set up)

Davenport Safe Place to Trick-or-Treat

Trick or Treat in downtown Davenport on Bay Street. FREE hot dogs and drinks, cotton candy, haunted house, wagon rides, costume contest and other activities.

Horse Creek Festival

The creek still runs clean and clear a little outside of Davenport, which was originally named “Horse Creek.” The 2nd annual festival focuses on the town’s history as the birth of citrus confections – candy, sweets – in Central Florida and its activity today as a burgeoning center for the arts. The festival will feature a Baking Contest, Florida Quilt Display, Antique Cars, Invitational Art Show, Youth Art Show, Vendors of Florida Citrus Labels, DSA Art Display, Children’s Heritage Games, Historical Displays & Demos, Florida Foods, Native Gardens and UF Master Gardeners’ workshops. Two special luncheons occur in conjunction with the festival activities: Grandma Emiline’s Porch Luncheon and the Florida Cracker Luncheon.

Davenport is home to Webb’s Candy Factory, established in the 1920s when Miss Blodgett and Miss Stilman created “Citrus Candies,” believed to be the first such confection in the U.S. Their Tea Room, sold in 1931 to C.S. Taylor, was then sold in 1971 to Paul and Nadine Webb. November’s festival will also feature candy-making demonstrations by Webb’s and other area candy makers, with tastings for the visitors.

Festival admission is free. Visit the Historic District of downtown Davenport on Friday and Saturday, November 3-4, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 pm. Check for updates at www.horsecreekfestival.org.

Florida Heritage Invitational Art Show

Dozens of the state’s finest artists compete in the area’s 2nd annual Florida Heritage Invitational Art Show, which is held in conjunction with Davenport’s Horse Creek Festival on November 3-4, 2012.

From painters to sculptors, jewelers to photographers, the main streets of Davenport are lined with booths displaying creations of the best of the best in this by-invitation-only juried and judged “Florida’s Heritage” show which awards an assortment of prizes including cash.

The stunning life-size horses of famed woodcarver Bill Snyder, the masterful landscapes of Daniel Butler, the realistic cattle-ranch studies of Hoppy Campbell, the amazing “wildlife art” by Dawn Rae Carver, top-notch wildlife photography by Arthur Morris-and the equally exquisite work of many more, too numerous to list, will be displayed and available for purchase.

Davenport’s Hometown Christmas

Festivities in Downtown Davenport at Lake Play & Bay Street include a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, electric night time parade, cookie decorating, Lighting of Lake Play Park, Cruise In with classic cars, vendors and SNOW.

The Biennial Quilt and Tea Festival

The 2012 event is the 11th (now biennial) and is set for November 9-10, 2012 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily at locations indoors and outdoors throughout the historic district (not a traditional quilt show). Admission is a donation of $5.00. Attendees may walk or ride via horse and carriage or tram.

Each year some of the festival income benefits different charities locally and internationally. Hosted by the City, the event is sponsored by the Quilts and Tea Committee and the Davenport Historical Society. The committee helps plan other events related to “Florida Remembered” – festivals, workshops, and educational opportunities. Visit www.quiltsandtea.com or phone 863-258-7800.

Make it a point to visit soon. Enjoy some family-friendly fun and see why residents are proud to call Davenport home. For additional information, phone 863.419.3300 or visit www.mydavenport.org.

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Written By: Cheryl Johnston

Magnify Credit Union takes the “Pay It Forward” philosophy seriously.

John Santarpia, company president and CEO, believes an organization should do as much giving in its community as receiving, if not more.

Magnify has become known now for its generosity as well as its approach to service. It’s known for doing things differently. And in the process its customer base is growing.

But company growth was not the motivation on the December day recently when Santarpia shared a little Christmas spirit by offering $100 gift cards to some unsuspecting shoppers who looked like they might be able to use a little help.
An online video and published report by Fox 13 News reporter Ken Suarez details Santarpia surprising grocery shoppers at a Lakeland Winn-Dixie store. He offered $100 gift cards to five different people with only one condition – if given the opportunity, they were to help someone else in need by paying it forward.

Rebecca Harris, 28 and a mother of six children, was overwhelmed by the free gift from a stranger. Twins born three months prematurely meant the family would struggle to live on only one income. On this day, she felt blessed and planned to help someone else, too.

The video also captured one of the recipients when she returned to the store and paid for another stranger’s groceries with what remained on the gift card she had received. To catch a bit of this Christmas contagion, view the video at http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/dpp/news/local/polk/ceo-gives-away-gift-cards-12052011, but warning: have the tissues handy.

Be on the lookout, too, because the Mulberry-headquartered company plans more surprise giveaways between now and the 25th.

The energetic Santarpia has transformed Magnify (formerly IMC Federal Credit Union and then Community First) since he joined the company in 2003. The CPA, real estate broker, and former CEO of the DVA Federal Credit Union in Washington, D.C., is a self-taught marketing specialist who believes people deserve more than in-your-face advertising campaigns. That 12-year experience with the Department of Veterans Affairs had a positive effect. He prefers that Magnify and its employees serve customers by demonstrating hospitality, compassion, and friendship. And he models it, too.

Magnify Credit Union Centers act and feel different than most. The company’s slogan captures the corporate philosophy in only four words: “Simplify banking. Magnify life.” At its five locations, customers experience a more casual “community gathering place” atmosphere. Magnify events such as gardening or couponing workshops, among others, enhance the relationship building approach to business. It’s a “serve more than sell” mentality that has established Magnify as a leader in local banking.

Magnify belongs to a Shared Branch Network with over 4,000 branches throughout the U.S. available for Magnify customers to use for their banking needs. Anyone living or working in Polk County and Hillsborough County (west of I-75) can join Magnify. Magnify branches are even open on Saturdays and ATMs are located in most CVS Pharmacy stores in Polk, which adds to the convenience factor. For company details, visit www.magnifycu.org or phone 863-425-5611 / 800-470-8742.

When it comes to managing money, word of mouth promotion goes a long way. And in tighter economic times, free gift cards are definitely something to talk about.

All Santarpia asks this Christmas is that the receivers magnify the generosity. He’s betting that they will.

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The Heuvel family knows food and their Iam Pasta Café in Winter Haven is dishing it up nicely.

The casual eatery is definitely a family affair. Since moving from Amsterdam in Holland to Central Florida, the Heuvels have owned two prior establishments – the Café Doughmonde, a bakery/cafe in Haines City, and the Iamsterdam Panini Café in Winter Haven, neither of which allowed room for expansion.

Opened in Spring 2011, the recently expanded family-friendly Iam Pasta Café seats up to 50 at its location a few miles east of Legoland on Cypress Gardens Boulevard.

Dave and Karin Heuvel work with his brother Val and his parents Harvey and Joan to offer a selection of pasta dishes, panini sandwiches, soups, salads, pizza and three scrumptious desserts. Fresh made breads and a choice of three pasta sauces allow diners plenty of variety.

We visited for dinner recently and enjoyed sampling three pasta dishes and the cheesecake that lures customers back again and again.

In fact, regular customers Sal and Dolly Aguilino, who were leaving as we entered, encouraged us to “try the cheesecake. It’s the best anywhere.” Then he added, “Dolly likes the lasagna and I like the cheesecake, good food, good service, and great prices.”

Harvey seated us and Dave explained the menu selections. We were excited to learn of the gluten-free options for pasta, pizza, and Val Heuvel’s specialty bread for paninis, affectionately called “Protini.”

The process for pasta decisions is simple. First, choose your pasta from among bowtie, fettucine, penne, spaghetti, stuffed shells, whole wheat or gluten-free. Next, select one of the red, white, or pesto sauces and any accompaniments you’d like.

Our meal started with the Bruchetta appetizer, an excellent choice because of the toasted bread and tomatoes’ freshness. Then we sampled three different specialties: Creamy Mushroom Pasta with mushrooms and green onions sautéed in a garlic butter/ white wine cream sauce, the Chicken Basil Pesto topped with parmesan cheese, and the Iam Pasta Meatballs in delicious marinara.

Shirley Starling, another first-time diner that evening, claimed the Chicken Basil Pesto as a favorite and said, “I’ll be bringing the whole family with me next time. They will love this.”

We were impressed with the uniqueness of each, and with the prices also. Dave Heuvel explained the family’s determination to hold prices so more folks can afford to enjoy Iam’s offerings.

As we ate, three other family members stopped by our table to check on us – mom, dad, and brother Val, the nutritionist, who took time to explain the gluten-free/carb-free products from which customers can select. Gluten-free pastas and paninis and gluten-free/zero carb pizzas are available upon request. From the family’s healthful appearances, it was obvious that gluten-free is a great dietary choice. We were inspired to try it when we return soon.

After visiting the café’s website at
www.iampastacafe.com, we have decided to sample the Pasta Primavera on our next trip. The pictures of the vegetarian dish combining fettucine with fresh broccoli, zucchini, onions, black olives, and tomatoes priced at only $7.89 had us marking the calendar.

See for yourself. Come soon to try temptations like the authentic pressed Cuban sandwich turkey panini on rosemary focaccia bread, King Salmon Pasta, Shrimp Scampi, Chicken Parmesan, and the low-carb choice called “Sauce Your Salad”. The soups are also homemade and at least once, you must try the amazing cheesecake or tiramisu. Bet it won’t be your last.

Iam Pasta Café also offers especially affordable catering service for small or large group functions and karaoke dining on Saturdays from 6-9PM. T

The Heuvels know food and family fun and Winter Haven is the better for it.

Iam Pasta Café

7220 Cypress Gardens Boulevard
Winter Haven, FL 33880
(863) 508-7433
www.iampastacafe.com
Hours: 11AM-9PM, Mon-Sat

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