Plant City Times &
Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2016
FREE
SQUAWK
ON A ROLL
COMPETITION
Unusal birds have been sighted in P.C.
The Lady Raiders basketball team has ballin’record.
See the ladies in the Strawberry Queen Pageant.
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GOVERNANCE by Emily Topper |StaffWriter
Keel won’t seek re-election Business owner Nate Kilton has announced his candidacy for the vacant seat.
Emily Topper
Plant City Commissioner Billy Keel, with his wife, Donna Keel, announced Monday he will not seek re-election for his commission seat.
OUR TOWN + Internships available The Plant City Photo Archives and History Center has announced that its Intern Program is open for applications for the 2016 spring and the summer terms. The program is designed to provide students the opportunity to learn museum, archives and history center skills in a real-life setting. The Intern Program was initiated in 2010 and has provided high school-level students, college undergraduate students and graduate students learning opportunities in institution operations, accession and documentation procedures, historical research and writing and archiving techniques. The program is structured to be flexible in scheduling and each intern will be monitored by both a mentor and by the organization’s executive director, Gil Gott. Programs of work are set out in advance and interns are provided with formats for daily journal entries and checklists. After the completion of the schedule the intern is presented with an evaluation and a final report. Applications may be submitted beginning Jan. 25 for the spring term and May 31 for the summer term. Interested students can obtain additional information and an application form by visiting the Photo Archives, 106 S. Evers St., or by emailing the executive director at gil@plantcityphotoarchives.org. The office is open for business Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The office telephone number is (813) 754.1578 and the website is PlantCityPhotoArchives. org.
City Commissioner Billy Keel announced at the City Commission meeting Monday, Jan. 11, that he will not seek re-election for his Commission seat in June. Nate Kilton, Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce immediate past chairman, announced his candidacy for Keel’s seat following the meeting. “I have always tried to make
decisions on what I truly believed to be the best for this community, which I love so much,” Keel said. “It has been an honor to do so.”
Keel has served on the City Commission for four years, but his service to Plant City goes far beyond the walls of City Hall. Keel served eight years on the
“I have always tried to make decisions on what I truly believed to be the best for this community, which I love so much. It has been an honor to do so.”
City of Plant City’s Planning Board and is the owner of W. J. Keel Holdings LLC. On Monday, Keel’s company was announced as one of the newest general members for the Plant City Economic Development Corp. Keel, who turns 47 next month, decided not to seek
— Plant City Commissioner Billy Keel
SEE KEEL / PAGE 4
HOMETOWN HERO by Emily Topper |StaffWriter
Victories for Vets
Abby Baker
Pauline Haskins’ birthday is Jan. 7, 1917.
Plant City woman turns 99 Pauline Haskins celebrated her birthday at Stone Ledge Manor.
Rob McGregor stands under the green light outside of the American Legion. McGregor, who served in the Army National Guard, has focused his retirement on helping veterans in Plant City.
Rob McGregor’s service in the military led him to his newest profession: helping fellow vets.
T
he front doors of the American Legion building on Baker Street are marked by two green light bulbs: a nationally recognized sign of thanks and appreciation for veterans. In Plant City, the service organization is known for helping vets through fundraisers and community projects. Inside, finance officer Rob McGregor is hard at work making sure veterans are taken care of outside the Ameri-
can Legion’s walls. McGregor is a family assistance coordinator and technology guru for the Florida National Guard Family Program, an organization dedicated to helping veterans and their families with financial assistance, legal issues and medical benefits. He began working with the program after his wife, Pam, became a volunteer. Often, military veterans have
SEE HERO / PAGE 4
Emily Topper
“Sometimes peoplehavetrouble understanding activedutyNational Guard. They don’t understand their benefits, they don’t understand their entitlements. … ” Rob McGregor
SEE HASKINS / PAGE 4
CHAT TIME
What memory is most important to you? Having my children.
HOMETOWN HERO
INDEX Calendar........................................2
Many family members and friends gathered around Pauline Haskins Saturday, Jan. 9, to celebrate Haskins’ 99th birthday and almost a century of memories. Though Haskins has lived at Stone Ledge Manor, an assisted living and memory care center in Thonotosassa, since 2011, she was born in Madison, Florida Jan. 7, 1917. Haskins’s father worked in the strawberry packing business, causing Haskins and her siblings to move frequently through the state of Florida. But when she was 19, she insisted on staying on a family farm with her cousin. She had just acquired a position as a nanny and didn’t want to lose the job. When she was 22, Haskins attended a dance in Lakeland. There, she caught sight of Hen-
What is your secret to life? I don’t know, the Lord just blessed me I guess.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Hometown Heroes is a recurring feature in the Plant City Times & Observer in which we profile veterans from Plant City. If you have a loved one currently serving or who has served in the past, please contact Managing Editor Amber Jurgensen by email at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com or by phone at (813) 704-6850.
Courtesy of the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center
99 AND COUNTING
by Abby Baker | Staff Intern
Favorite food to cook? Chicken and dumplings.
Vol. 3, No. 23 | One section Crossword.................................15
Obituaries..................................11
Sports...........................................12
Weather......................................15
PlantCityObserver.com
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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER
FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2016
COMMUNITYCALENDAR
To publicize your event in our Community Calendar, please send by mail: 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A, Plant City, FL 33563; or by email: ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com. Photos are welcome. Deadline is noon Thursday.
FRIDAY, JAN. 15 Plant City MLK Fest Opening Ceremony — takes place beginning at 11:30 a.m. at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Sports Complex, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Lincoln Elementary Magnet School’s drummer ensemble, Marshall Middle School’s Jazz Ensemble and Gentlemen’s Quest Marshall Middle School will perform. PlantCityMLKFestival.com.
SATURDAY, JAN. 16 Strawberry Classic Car Show — takes place from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, in Historic Downtown Plant City, 100 N. Collins St. PlantCity.org. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Parade — takes place beginning at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, in Historic Downtown Plant City, on Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. For more information call William Thomas at (813) 757-6760. Plant City MLK Fest Drumline Battle — takes place from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Sports Complex, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. PlantCityMLKFestival.com.
Plant City MLK Street Festival — takes place beginning at 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Sports Complex, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Enjoy vendors, food, games and entertainment. PlantCityMLKFestival.com. Plant City MLK Fest Custom Car Show — takes place beginning at 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Sports Complex, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Featuring 94.1 WLLD and more. PlantCityMLKFestival. com.
SUNDAY, JAN. 17 Plant City MLK Fest Leadership Breakfast — takes place beginning at 7:30 a.m. at Hillsborough Community College John R. Trinkle Center, 1206 N. Park Road. The cost is $30. The guest speaker is HCC President Dr. Ken Atwater. PlantCityMLKFestival.com. Plant City MLK Gospel Fest — takes place beginning at 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 17, at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Sports Complex, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. PlantCityMLKFestival. com.
MONDAY, JAN. 18 Plant City MLK Day of Community Service — takes place from 8 am. to 12 p.m. Monday, Jan. 18. Help a neighbor by joining in a community service project. PlantCityMLKFestival.com.
TUESDAY, JAN. 19 Astronomy Program — takes place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. The program on astronomy will be conducted by Tampa resident Craig MacDougal. There will be a short presentation, and then patrons will be able to go outside and view the night sky by telescope. The family-friendly program was a spectacular success last year. (813) 757-9215.
THURSDAY, JAN. 21 Library Board Public Meeting — takes place beginning at 9 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 21, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. (813) 7579215. Plant City Republican Women’s Club Meeting — takes place beginning at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 21, at Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill, 106 E. State Road 60.
BEST BET YMCA Open House Festival — takes place from 8 to 11 a.m. and 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19, at the Plant City Family YMCA, 1507 YMCA Place. The carnival-style party is free and open to the public. Guests are invited to enjoy light refreshments, games and entertainment while talking one-on-one with Executive Director Rick Gould and Membership Director JJ Myers about the Y’s programs, events, volunteering, membership, discounts, wellness, community engagement and more. (863) 370-8389.
SATURDAY, JAN. 23 Dean’s Ride — takes place beginning at 7:45 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 23, at the Hillsborough Community College Plant City Campus, 1206 N. Park Road. The bike ride raises money for the Plant City Family YMCA’s LIVESTRONG prgram. The
cost is $35. You must be 14 or older to ride. Register at TampaYMCA.org or Active. com. Light breakfast and lunch is provided. Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Pageant — takes place beginning at 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23, at the Florida Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds Grimes Family Agricultural Center, 2508
W. Oak Ave. Tickets are $15 each and can be purchased at the door. FlStrawberryFestival.com. Healing Emotional Wounds Seminar for Women — takes place beginning at 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Hillsborough Community College, 1206 N. Park Road. Among the facilitators will be a health and wellness coach from the Spring of Tampa Bay, a chief financial officer, a health educator from the Florida Department of Health, a certified fitness instructor, a licensed minister and a leadership development consultant. Free. Seating is limited. Contact Dr. Pauline Rivers, at (813) 759-0260 or by email at pmrivers@aol.com.
ONGOING Acoustic Happy Hour — takes place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Fridays, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub & Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 7648818. Christian Contemporary Music — takes place from 6:33 to 8:13 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. (813) 752-1220.
PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER
PlantCityObserver.com
FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2016
2015 Florida
ABIGAIL MILLER
ASHTYN STEELE
AALYHIA WATSON
Senior, Plant City High School Parents: Gary and Cherity Miller Future plans: To attend a university in Florida and double major in public relations and dietary nutrition.
Junior, Plant City High School dual enrolled; at Hillsborough Community College Parents: Christopher and LaDonna Steele Future plans: To attend the University of Central Florida and study film
ARIEL NAVARRETE
JULIA STRICKLAND
Senior, Plant City High School; dual enrolled at Hillsborough Community College Parent: Stacey Hunter Future plans: To attend the University of Florida and pursue a degree in marine biology
Junior, Plant City High School Parents: Juan and Lucy Navarrete Future plans: To attend Southeastern University and pursue a degree in education and possibly play soccer
Senior, Strawberry Crest High School Parents: Donnie and Tina Strickland Future plans: To attend Florida State University and pursue a degree in forensic science
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StrawberryFestival QueenContestants Photos by Stephanie Humphrey
Twenty-three girls will compete to be the next reigning royal. KENDRA ALLEN
ATHENA BATTEN
Senior, Plant City High School Parents: Wade and Rhonda Allen Future plans: To attend Florida Gulf Coast University and major in history
Junior, Durant High School Parents: Scott and Alison Batten Future plans: To obtain a degree in forensic science to become a crime scene investigator
JAILINE ALVAREZ
OLIVIA BROSKY
MADISON DOWDY
Senior, Newsome High School; dual enrolled at Hillsborough Community College Parents: Barry and Jennifer Dowdy Future plans: To attend the University of Tampa honors to obtain a bachelor’s degree in marine biology and then attend vet school to become an aquatic veterinarian
KASSANDRA FIGUEROA
HALEY RILEY
KAYLA TROUPE
ARDEN WHITE
Junior, Plant City High School; dual enrolled at Hillsborough Community College Parent: Lisa McGrath Future plans: To attend the University of Tampa and double major in communication and international business
ASHLYN YARBROUGH
Senior, Durant High School Parents: Leonel and Patricia Alvarez Future plans: To attend Florida Polytechnic University and major in mechanical engineering
ALEX APONTE
Senior, Plant City High School; freshman, Hillsborough Community College Parents: Lt. Col. and Mrs. Carl Brosky Future plans: To earn an associate’s degree at Hillsborough Community College and transfer to Florida Southern College to pursue a degree in history and pre-law
Student at Hillsborough Community College Parents: Noelia and Oscar Figueroa Future plans: To get a degree in elementary education and become a teacher
MORGAN GAUDENS
Junior, Durant High School Parents: William and Heather Riley Future plans: To attend the University of Florida and obtain a residency in pediatric anesthesiology
KENDALE SELLERS
CALAYDRIA TRICHELLE CALLINS
Senior, Newsome High School Parents: William and Mary Aponte Future plans: To attend the University of Florida and major in biology to become a cardiothoracic surgeon
MARLEE ARN
Senior, Plant City High School Parents: Pastor Calvin Callins Sr. and Dr. Tandria Callins Future plans: To attend Florida State University and pursue a degree in sports medicine and physical therapy
Freshman, Hillsborough Community College Parents: Henry and Melissa Gaudens Future plans: To attend the University of South Florida and get a degree in business management
ALLISON LANE
Senior, Plant City High School Parents: Kevin and Ellen Sellers Future plans: To attend Paul Mitchell The School of Tampa to become a hair stylist and makeup artist
CARLEY SMITH
Freshman, Hillsborough Community College Parents: James and Sheryl Cline Future plans: To pursue a doctorate in physical therapy
Junior, Plant City High School Parents: Mark and Lori Yarbrough Future plans: To attend the University of Florida and major in public relations
The Florida Strawberry Festival’s 2016 theme, “Royal Fun for Everyone,” will mean even more to one lucky girl on Saturday, Jan. 23. The annual Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Competition will take place at the Grimes Family Agricultural Center on the festival grounds. 2015 reigning Strawberry Queen Samantha Sun will pass on her crown to one of 23 girls, and four more will be sashed on the court. FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL QUEEN’S COMPETITION
WHEN: 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23 WHERE: Grimes Family Agricultural Center, 2508 W. Oak Ave. COST: $15 INFO: FlStrawberry Festival.com
DALLAS DENISE CLINE
Junior, Plant City High School Parents: Edward and Michelle Arn Future plans: To attend Samford University and major in vocal performance and interior design
Senior, Strawberry Crest High School’s International Baccalaureate Program Parents: United States Navy Commander Kary Troupe and Kelli Green Troupe Future plans: To study neurological psychology
Junior, Plant City High School Parents: Emmett and Stephenie Lane Future plans: To graduate from PCHS with a cosmetology license and use it while pursuing a degree in psychology, specializing in counseling
Senior, Plant City High School Parent: Windy Faith Hope Ford Future plans: To attend Florida State University in hopes of becoming a physician’s assistant
4 PlantCityObserver.com HASKINS / PAGE 1
KEEL / PAGE 1
ry “Jack” Haskins, a man that she would be married to for 49 years. “I said, ‘That’s a beautiful boy, and on the first date I kissed him,’” Haskins said. “I didn’t mean to be any harm.” Jack won her hand in marriage after a year of dating. When she was 23, they had a small wedding at a pastor’s parsonage in Lakeland. Again, Haskins was on the move around Florida. But this time it was because of her husband’s career on the railroad. The Haskins settled permanently at a home in Seffner. “It had a huge, beautiful yard with roses,” Sherry Reilly, one of Haskins’s grandchildren, said. “I remember she always had clotheslines up and there was a small kitchen with a lot of good food.” Even though Haskins has since moved out of her Seffner home and Jack died of a heart attack in 1990, her family visits and calls her frequently at Stone Ledge Manor.
re-election to pursue further business endeavors. He sold his company, Matrix Medical, last year. Since then, he has purchased Beach House Real Estate, a business based in Anna Maria Island. He has other real estate investments in the area. “I plan to spend more time there over the next few years,” Keel said in a statement. “That has played a major role in my decision not to continue as commissioner for another term ... I have enjoyed my time as a city commissioner, and I have especially enjoyed working with a wonderful group of commissioners and a fantastic staff.” Though Keel will devote much of his time to his new business, he and his wife, Donna, will remain rooted in the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World. Donna Keel is the Strawberry Queen coordinator chairman for the Florida Strawberry Festival. The couple’s youngest son, Bryson, is a junior at Plant City High School.
COOKING UP TALENT
Haskins’ mother died when was 16, leaving the seven children to take care of each other when their father was working. The third born, Haskins learned to cook to keep dinner on the table for her family. Once a necessity, cooking evolved into a lifelong passion. Haskins has three daughters, six grandchildren, 17 greatgrandchildren and seven greatgreat-grandchildren. They agree cooking is her talent. “My mom always made any holidays special,” her daughter, Faye Haskins, said. “She really is a wonderful cook.” When a friend recommended her for a job in the Franklin Elementary School lunchroom cafeteria, she took it. Abby Baker is a journalism student at Hillsborough Community College and an intern with the Plant City Times & Observer.
Read more about Haskins at PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM
HERO / PAGE 1 trouble accessing their benefits or are unaware of the benefits they have. It is an issue that strikes a personal note with McGregor.
SENSE OF PURPOSE
The Southern California native retired in 2005 after serving in the United States Air Force for 22 years. Although McGregor’s uniform had an Air Force badge, he worked in the Active Guard Reserve as part of active duty in the Army National Guard. “Sometimes people have trouble understanding active duty National Guard,” McGregor said. “They don’t understand their benefits, they don’t understand their entitlements … We all wear uniforms, but we’re being paid out of different pots of money.” While many view National Guard members as patriotic volunteers who give up one
PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER
FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2016
“We will continue to live here,” Keel said. After his announcement, Keel’s fellow commissioners expressed their appreciation for his service. Besides serving on various boards and committees, including the city’s police and fire pension board, Keel also helped both the City of Plant City and the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce in times of financial despair. “We go way back,” City Commissioner Mike Sparkman said. “I’ve always looked to you for (financial) guidance. I hate to see you go, but you’ve done a fantastic job. Thank you for your time here.” “You’re the numbers man,” City Commissioner Mary Thomas Mathis added. “You were able to look at those numbers and dissect it. I know you won’t be too far away.” Mayor Rick Lott, a longtime friend of Keel, also expressed his gratitude. “I’m very sad to see you not run for re-election,” Lott said, noting the numerous organizations that he has served on with Keel. “Every single one of
weekend every month, McGregor’s service was full time. When he first enlisted in the military, he was a teletype operator. As technology advanced, so did his position. He eventually helped install some of the first computer networks used in the Air Force and reached the rank of master sergeant. “The planes didn’t fly unless we provided them with computer support,” McGregor said. McGregor comes from a military family. His father and his uncle both served in the U.S. Navy. Before enlisting, McGregor talked to recruiters from all military branches. Eventually, his Navy veteran uncle encouraged him to join the Air Force. “I wanted to learn something, but I didn’t necessarily want to learn (through college,” McGregor said. “When I joined it was, ‘I’ve got to do something with
IN OTHER NEWS • City commissioners accepted a bid with Evergreen Solutions LLC to perform a comprehensive pay plan study, which compares the City of Plant City’s employee pay rate to that of neighboring counties, including Pasco, Polk and Pinellas counties. The last time the pay scale was adjusted to current market rates was in the 2008-09 fiscal year. The contract amount for the pay plan study is $38,000.
them ended up being a better organization with your leadership.” Keel said that he hopes the next city commissioner will be one who is willing to talk through the issues to come to a consensus. “We have a wonderful group of commissioners,” Keel said. “I hope that the person who fills this seat will continue in that regard.”
my life,’” he said. “The sense of duty made me re-enlist. I found a calling, I was part of something bigger.”
CONTINUED SERVICE
Before McGregor retired from active service, he made the decision to get laser eye surgery. The procedure was covered by his military benefits. Though his ID card said that he was active duty Air Force, he had trouble getting the surgery when he explained his service with the National Guard. The confusion, which he has faced frequently before and since his retirement, has allowed him to offer his own advice and assistance to fellow veterans through the Family Assistance program. “Nothing happens out of malice,” McGregor said. “Our job is to advocate.” Besides helping veterans with their benefits, the program also offers financial as-
ON THE BALLOT
Keel’s potential successor, plans to run for election in June. He is the owner of Sedita Kilton Life & Wealth Management LLC and Sedita Kilton & Company, Certified Public Accountants PL. In January, he became a sales associate with Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate. Kilton, who is a co-owner of the Plant City Times & Observer, is a graduate of both Florida State University and the University of South Florida. He obtained his MBA at the University of Tampa. He is heavily involved in the Plant City Economic Development Corp. and the chamber. He’s also active with GracePoint Church, the Plant City Noon Rotary Club and the Plant City Planning Board. “For years, I’ve thought about serving our community as a city commissioner,” Kilton said in a statement. “I believe that it’s important to give generously of my time and talents, and I know that I can make a positive impact as a city commissioner.” Kilton added that he is ap-
sistance to veteran’s families and active duty families. “They don’t need to be worried about their family back here,” McGregor said. McGregor uses the American Legion as his full-time office. He’s been a member of the American Legion since his retirement, but became heavily involved in 2006. His wife is a member of the American Legion’s Auxiliary Unit 26. Following his retirement from active duty, the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World became McGregor’s first non-base home in 20 years. As McGregor continues to help American Legion members and Plant City vets, he hopes to see the American Legion grow. The unit has 120 members, with about 10 attending regularly. McGregor has been the unit’s finance officer since 2006. “This post is very financially
“I’ve thought about this andprayedaboutitfora longtime.I’mexcitedfor theopportunitytoserve the City of Plant City.” — Nate Kilton preciative of Keel’s commitment to the community. “I’ve thought about this and prayed about it for a long time,” Kilton said. “I’m excited for the opportunity to serve the City of Plant City.” Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver. com.
stable,” he said. “When I was retiring ... I wanted to be with other veterans. I picked the Legion (because) of the strong emphasis on supporting military families. The Legion seems to be more apt to do that than some other veteran organizations.” Because of McGregor’s prior service, the Plant City American Legion post focuses many of its fundraising efforts on raising money for National Guard families in Plant City. “It’s shaped every aspect of (my life),” McGregor said. “It’s affected my whole family.” McGregor said he would encourage anyone who is thinking about joining the military to enlist. “I’d tell them to do it,” he said. “The best part is just the feeling that I made a difference.” Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver. com.
PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER
PlantCityObserver.com
FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2016
5
UPDATE by Emily Topper |StaffWriter
BREWER BIRDS by Emily Topper |StaffWriter
EDC announces new businesses, budget at second meeting The organization now has more than 40 members and continues to grow.
The Great Migration Don Phillips
In the winter, American white pelicans migrate south and are primarily found on the coastline, not inland.
American white pelicans are not normally found in lakes in the winter. Usually, they migrate from the northern states to the coastline. Birds of a feather flock together — even in unusual weather. On Sunday, Dec. 27, about 100 American white pelicans were seen at Brewer Park. They have continued to return throughout January. According to the Southwest Florida Water Management District, over 1,500 American white pelicans migrate to Florida in the winter. However, these birds typically stick to the coastline. In the past, they’ve been seen in bay areas and on coastlines such as Sanibel Island. The birds, which are identified by the black under their wings, target inland lakes and ponds or islands mainly during the summer. The shallow areas of these bodies of water are perfect for fishing during the breeding season. The pelicans, who primarily gather in large groups, help one anoth-
er with feeding. Among Plant City residents who spotted the pelicans were Don Phillips and Ann Trinkle. “I couldn’t believe it,” Phillips said. “There were over 100 of them. Five or six sat in the middle by the fountain ... it’s very unusual, but good for Plant City.” Phillips spotted the birds again in Lakeland at Kelly Lake, though only five or six were present. “Nobody could believe that there were that many of them in one place,” he said. “I’ve never seen them before (inland). I only saw one to two at a time at the beach in the summertime. We were right up close to them.” Ann Trinkle saw the birds during the same span of time as Phillips. The birds were gone by Tuesday, Dec. 29, but Trinkle said they returned once more on Sunday, Jan. 11.
Employees with the Plant City Recreation and Parks department saw them on Wednesday, Jan. 13. “It was incredible,” Trinkle said. “They were beautiful.” Trinkle has not seen the American white pelicans before, but has seen the more common gray and brown pelicans. The latter live in Florida year-round. Trinkle added that she also frequently sees blue herons and ducks at the lake. “Those are there all the time,” she said. “But these white pelicans, never.” There is no definite reason why the birds selected Brewer Park as a temporary winter habitat. The state has seen warmer winter temperatures than usual, with a December average of 61 degrees. During winter, the birds traditionally travel from North America to warmer climates, including Central America. Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver. com.
BIRD NERD AMERICAN WHITE PELICANS Habitat: Typically found in North America during the summer, when they breed, and migrate to Central America during the winter. Features: Mostly white, but have black feathers that can be seen when they spread their wings Body length: 50 to 65 centimeters Wingspan: 96 to 114 inches Source: AllAboutBirds.org
The newly formed Plant City Economic Development Corp. hosted its second meeting Monday, Jan. 11, at Stingray Chevrolet. During its meeting, several businesses announced plans to move their facilities to Plant City. Those businesses include SparkleSkirts and AgFreeze. As business in Plant City continues to grow, so does the EDC. It announced that it is up to 40 members. Publix is its newest. “I think we’re on a good track to having a well-funded organization,” President and CEO Jake Austin said. The EDC also approved its first budget at the meeting. This year, the EDC has a total expected revenue of $395,000. Of that, $195,700 will be used for fixed expenses, including salaries. A total of $95,280 will be used for operating expenses, and $40,000 will be used for start-up expenses. The remaining $64,020 will be used as the organization’s reserves. The organization’s next meeting will be held at 4 p.m. Monday, Feb. 8, at Sunshine Bank. Following the February meeting, the EDC will move its meetings from the second Monday of the month to the third Monday of the month.
TRENDSETTERS
Recreation and Parks Department
SparkleSkirts, a rapidly growing athletic wear company, will be moving into 15,000 square feet at the corner of U.S. Highway 92 and County Line Road. The facility is currently under construction by Central Florida Development. That same corner, located near the Interstate 4 corridor, is host to
Fitlife Foods and Appalachian Insulation. SparkleSkirts currently has 20 employees and sells athletic, anti-ride skirts for women. The skirts are geared toward women who compete in running events, such as half marathons, but the company’s market is growing. With pockets and customizable options, the skirts are being purchased by women for a variety of sports: golf, tennis, yoga and more. The company currently has sewing facilities in St. Petersburg, Miami and California but will use the Florida location to make custom and relay team skirts.
SWEET AS STRAWBERRIES
A prospective company, AgFreeze, also announced that it hopes to build roots in Plant City. Co-founders Rob Rieke and Amy Entress are interested in freezing fresh fruit, especially Plant City strawberries, to reduce the amount of fresh produce that is thrown away each year. The company’s ultimate goal is to have zero waste. “We can put a lot of money back in Florida growers’ pockets by doing this,” Rieke said. The company hopes to be open for freezing by Oct. 1. Though they have no definitive address yet, both Rieke and Entress have Plant City as their primary location on their business cards. Once open, the company plans to operate year-round, primarily focusing on freezing strawberries, blueberries, peaches and mangoes. Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobser ver. com.
6 PlantCityObserver.com
NEWS BRIEFS + Motorcyclist killed A motorcyclist was killed at the intersection of North Wheeler Street and West English Street Thursday, Jan. 7, after his HarleyDavidson rear ended a pickup truck. At 9:20 p.m. David Desorcy, 25, of Plant City, was traveling north on North Wheeler Street when he hit a Ford Ranger truck driven by Thomas Fender, 18, of Plant City. Fender, who was stopped on North Wheeler Street, was waiting for southbound traffic to clear so he could turn onto West English Street. Prior to impact, Desorcy made no attempt to brake or maneuver away from impact, according to the Plant City Police Department. Desorcy was thrown from his bike and died. Fender was not injured. No charges are pending at this time.
+ Man dies in Subway parking lot A Dover man died in his vehicle outside of Subway on James L. Redman Parkway Tuesday, Jan. 5. The man was Dustin Sumner, 29. An autopsy will be done to determine the cause of death, according to the Plant City Police Department. “He expired in his vehicle, no visible signs of trauma or foul play,” Sgt. Al Van Duyne said. “It definitely was not a shooting.” This story will be updated as more details are released.
PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER
FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2016
FIT FOR A KING by Emily Topper |StaffWriter
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Festival continues this weekend The 30th year of the festival will be marked with new activities and annual favorites. Last Friday kicked off the 30th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Festival in Plant City, but this upcoming weekend will feature most of the festival’s activities. “We are just in high speed right now,” William Thomas Jr., president of the Improvement League of Plant City, said. Thomas hopes that the festival, which this year has a theme of faith, community and unity, will be able to raise $40,000 this year. All proceeds will go to the Bing Rooming House. On Friday, Jan. 15, Plant City residents can attend the opening ceremonies for the festival at the Plant City MLK Recreation Center. The event is free to the public, and will include performances by area schools, including the Lincoln IB Drummer Ensemble and Marshall Middle School’s Jazz Ensemble and Gentleman’s Quest club. “That’s essentially our formal welcome,” Thomas said. “Thirty years is a long time for a festival of our type. We’re making efforts to recognize that.” To commemorate 30 years, three local pastors will speak at the opening ceremony. Pastor Calvin Callins, of Greater New Hope Anointed Ministries, Rev. Henry Simmons, of Mt. Moriah Baptist Church and Rev. Shafter Scott, of St. Mary Missionary Baptist Church, will speak for five minutes each before the festivities begin. That evening, a teen dance will be held at the MLK Center following the Durant versus Plant City basketball game.
Emily Topper
Organizer William Thomas Jr. stands outside of the Bing Rooming House Museum. All proceeds from the MLK Festival will go toward the museum. The Improvement League will present a trophy to the winning teams, and teens can get in to the dance for just $2 if they show their stamp from the game. Saturday, Jan. 16, will kick off events with an all-day vendor and street festival at the Plant City MLK Sports Complex. This year, festival attendees also will be able to enjoy a carnival, complete with live music, rides and games. “It’s unique that a carnival is coming back this year,” Thomas said. “It says a lot about what we do.” Thomas added that it is the community support of the festival that made the carnival possible. “We’ve gotten a lot of support this year,” Thomas said.
“Plant City is becoming more diverse. The business and church communities have increased support this year. The church was the anchor 30 years ago and still is today.” The church might be the anchor, but the festival has grown in sponsorships. This year’s festival is sponsored by Bright House Networks, TECO Energy, the City of Plant City, Florida Blue, Mosaic, Sunshine Bank and Felton’s Meat and Produce Market. Also on Saturday, Plant City residents can head to Historic Downtown to watch the annual MLK Freedom Parade, sponsored by Stingray Chevrolet. The event, a favorite of the festival, will begin at 1 p.m. with band appearances by Durant and Strawberry Crest high schools, and Tom-
lin, Marshall and Turkey Creek middle schools. Parade-goers will also see the Tampa Bay Posse Corvette Club and Buffalo Soldiers. The parade will be led by the Plant City High School Raiders Football team, in recognition of its success this past game season. If music lovers are still itching for more after the parade, they can watch the high school and middle school drumline showdown, which begins at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday. Area bands will compete for cash prizes for first, second and third place winners. On Sunday, Jan. 17, festival goers can start off the morning with a 7:30 a.m. leadership breakfast at the John R. Trinkle Center on the Hillsborough Community College campus. Dr. Ken Atwater, HCC president, will be the guest speaker. Community awards will be presented at the breakfast, including the MLK Leadership Award and the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Service Award. Sunday’s festivities will end with an MLK Gospel Fest, held at the MLK Recreation Center. On Monday, Jan. 18 — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day — Plant City residents can grab their work boots and hammers for a day of service to conclude the five-day festival. The Improvement League of Plant City encourages residents to adopt leftover projects from CareFest, a community service day that was held in September. Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobser ver. com.
IF YOU GO OPENING CEREMONIES When: 11:30 a.m., Friday, Jan. 15 Where: Plant City MLK Recreation Center, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Cost: Free TEEN PARTY When: 9:30 p.m., Friday, Jan. 15 Where: Plant City MLK Recreation Center, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Cost: $2 with Durant/ PCHS basketball game stamp; $5 at the door STREET FESTIVAL & CARNIVAL When: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 16 Where: Plant City MLK Sports Complex, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Cost: Free; additional costs for carnival rides and vendors MLK FREEDOM PARADE When: Begins at 1 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 16 Where: Down Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, through Historic Downtown Plant City Cost: Free LEADERSHIP BREAKFAST When: 7:30 a.m., Sunday, Jan. 17 Where: John R. Trinkle Center, 1206 N. Park Road Cost: $30 MLK GOSPEL FEST When: 4 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 17 Where: Plant City MLK Recreation Center, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Cost: Free
HOPEWELL FUNERAL HOME & MEMORIAL GARDENS HAS PARTNERED TO SPONSOR AROUND TOWN.
AroundTown
Reporters from the Plant City Times & Observer hit the streets of Plant City to ask residents a little about themselves. Will we spot you around town next?
This week, we asked: What is your favorite movie?
Dylan Tice, 18 “‘Maleficent.’ I’m a Disney person.”
Jared Brown, 17 “‘Inception’ because I wish that was how dreams worked.”
Julicia Crespo, 10 ‘Inside Out.’ It’s a really funny movie.”
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We want to hear from you. Let us know about your events, celebrations and achievements. To contact us, send your information via: Email: Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@PlantCityObserver.com. Mail: The Plant City Observer, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A, Plant City, FL 33563
Luis Arellano, 19 “‘Hunger Games.’ All of them. I feel like the director translated them well.”
Nathan Brown, 17 “‘Forrest Gump.’ I cry every time.”
Samantha Phillips, 9 “‘Home Alone’ because it’s just funny.”
CONTACT US The Plant City Times & Observer is published once weekly, on Fridays. It provides free home delivery to several neighborhoods in Plant City. The Plant City Times & Observer also can be found in many commercial locations throughout Plant City and at our office, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A. If you wish to discontinue home delivery or if you wish to suspend home delivery temporarily, call Linda Lancaster at 704-6850.
Publisher / Karen Berry, kdberry@inthefieldmagazine.com Managing Editor / Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@PlantCityObserver.com Staff Writers / Justin Kline, jkline@PlantCityObserver.com; Emily Topper, etopper@PlantCityObserver.com Editorial Design / Terry Chapman; tchapman@YourObserver.com Circulation/OfficeManager/LindaLancaster,llancaster@PlantCityObserver.com
“Ifwearetobuildabetterworld,wemustrememberthattheguidingprincipleisthis—apolicyoffreedomfortheindividualistheonlytrulyprogressivepolicy.”—FriedrichHayek,“RoadtoSerfdom,”1944
PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER
PlantCityObserver.com
FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2016
MY VIEW by Donna Bollenbach
Resolve to add native plants to your landscape A few years ago my parents decided that they could no longer keep up with the maintenance of their home. They moved in with my sister and asked my husband and I if we would like to live in their house. As we were between homes, we accepted. The move from a country home on two wooded acres to a suburban home on a 1/3-acre lot with a tropical landscape was a change for us. We missed our native trees and shrubs and all the wildlife they attracted. The tropical vegetation was pretty, but had very little attraction for the wildlife. Shortly after moving, we joined the Suncoast Native Plant Society. We learned that the native plants we took for granted in our rural home attracted more wildlife because wildlife prefers natives for food and shelter. In our rural landscape we had very little grass, but lots of oaks, longleaf pines, beautyberry, firebush, pokeweed, dewberry, holly, sweetbay, Carolina willow, elderberry and other native plants. The wildlife in our yard included nesting owls and hawks, woodpeckers, a variety of songbirds, hummingbirds, snakes, frogs, toads, gopher tortoise, an occasional deer or bobcat, and an abundance of bees and butterflies. While we knew we would not be able to attract all these animals to our suburban home, we did want to bring in the birds and butterflies. There are two approaches to planting natives.
ALL OR NONE
Some people rip up their entire yard, nix the lawn and replant everything with natives. Unless you can afford to hire someone to do most of the work, the all-or-none approach is not practical. Furthermore, many people are not willing to give up their bougainvillea, bird-of-paradise and bottle brush. We had the added consideration that my dad, a veteran gardener, was proud of this lawn and tropical landscape, and his feelings would be hurt if we ripped it up in one day.
INTEGRATION
The more practical approach is to integrate native plants into your current landscape. This is the method we adopted, and it is still a work in progress. Our first project was a previously landscaped area of front yard near a loquat tree. While not native, the loquat tree provides edible fruit for us and the wildlife, so we decided to keep it. But underneath it was a thick blanket of snake plant and philodendrons, which seemed to have little value for wildlife, except perhaps for Cuban (non-native) lizards to hide.
Photos courtesy of Donna Bollenbach
Monarchs are attracted to native plants.
WHERE TO FIND NATIVE PLANTS?
To find the native plant nursery closest to you visit PlantRealFlorida. org or come to the SNPS Native Plant Sales at the USF Botanical Gardens on April 9 and 10 and Oct. 8 and 9. We pulled up the plants in the bed, added a little topsoil and went shopping for native plants.
THE PROCESS
Unfortunately, Hillsborough County does not have a native plant nursery, and while the big box stores have a Floridafriendly section, very few of the plants are true natives. We purchased our first natives from a native plant nursery in Sarasota County. Since then we have purchased most of our plants at the Suncoast Native Plant Society semi-annual native plant sales, and we’ve picked up a few at the native plant auction following our chapter’s meetings. We wanted plants that were suitable without any added fertilizer or pesticides. One, pesticides are harmful to the birds, butterflies and bees that we were trying to attract. Two, when it rains, the chemicals in pesticides and fertilizers wash into the ground and end up in our lakes, rivers and eventually, our drinking water, so they are not good for people either. Our soil was average, neither moist nor dry, and drained well. There were areas of shade, part sun and full sun in the bed. In the shaded areas we planted wild coffee. In the areas that received part sun we put in Simpson’s stopper. In the sunny areas we planted firebush, cassia, blue porterweed, blue mist and a native mimosa. We planted red, white and pink salvia throughout. We watered the plants daily for a few weeks to establish
them. (If planted in the right place, native plants need little irrigation, but like any potted plant, they do need water when they are first put in the ground or in the case of a drought.) Our plants grew like crazy, especially the blue porterweed. It turns out the porterweed we purchased was not the native species which stays low, but a non-native that grows tall and unwieldly. It did attract lots of butterflies though, and hummingbirds, as did the firebush and the salvia. We allowed the blue porterweed to stay until it started toppling over on the firebush. Then I removed it and replanted it next to a fence line where it is just as happy. A native garden, like any garden, is trial and error. The integrated approach to planting natives works for us. It allows us the time to evaluate and enjoy each new area. And, our native plants did bring in the birds and butterflies. Sometimes the whole garden seems to be filled with the color of wings and the buzzing of bees. The Suncoast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society invites the public to join for its monthly meetings and field trips. The chapter meets every third Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Hillsborough County Extension Services Office, 5339 County Road 579. Our field trips are usually held the Saturday following the meeting, but may vary. For additional information visit SuncoastNPS.org.
CUTESTCRITTER
T
his is Chicken, so named by its three little girl mamas. They found her as a tiny kitten and bottle fed her. Submit your entries to Managing Editor Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com; subject line: Cutest Critter.
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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER
FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2016
MONEY MATTERS by Emily Topper | StaffWriter
Local schools scheduled for needed improvements Hillsborough County allots more than $13 million for Plant City school improvements through 2019. City Commissioners adopted a five-year work program for Hillsborough County schools at a Commission meeting in December. If funding is available, Hillsborough County will allot $13,925,023 for improvements at Plant City elementary, middle and high schools and career centers. Improvements range from infrastructure repairs, such as re-roofing, paint jobs and asphalt repairs, to full renovations. Out of the five-year plan for Plant City, Walden Lake Elementary School is set to receive the biggest funding in the 2017-18 school year, with $5,844,100 allotted for a complete renovation for the school’s heating and air-conditioning systems. Durant High School has the second highest-priced renovation. The school district has budgeted $3,203,400 for a new roof in the 2018-19
Out of the five-year plan, Walden Lake Elementary School is set to receive the biggest funding in the 2017-18 school year, with $5,844,100 allotted for renovation for the its heating and air-conditioning systems.
school year. The school also is set to receive an exterior paint job in the 2017-18 school year. “We’ve had some leaks,” Durant High School Principal Pam Bowden said. “We’ll take whatever they’ll do.” Durant isn’t the only school in need of a new roof. In total, seven Plant City schools are scheduled to have a re-roof-
ing done in the district’s five year-plan. Schools include Cork Elementary, Knights Elementary, Tomlin Middle, Walden Lake Elementary, Wilson Elementary and Plant City High School. Besides getting a new roof, Plant City High School is the only school getting a new telephone system. The school has received the phones, and they were installed while school was out for the holidays. The new phone system will connect the whole school, from classrooms to the main office. “The phones have been there since the nineties,” Plant City High School Principal Susan Sullivan said. “We’ve upgraded the system.” A complete list of school improvements for all schools in Hillsborough County can be found on the school district’s website. Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver.com.
SCHOOL PROJECTS Projects that take place between the 2015-16 year and onward are contingent on available funding. PROJECT YEAR TOTAL SCHOOL Drainage improvements 2015-16 $30,250 Bryan Elementary Bryan Elementary Asphalt repairs 2018-19 $120,000 Cork Elementary Fencing 2015-16 $36,000 Cork Elementary Re-roofing 2017-18 $428,970 Cork Elementary Asphalt repairs 2018-19 $48,000 Dover Elementary Exterior paint 2018-19 $240,000 Dover Elementary Playcourt replacement 2015-16 $81,967 Dover Elementary Security upgrades 2015-16 $30,000 Durant High Exterior paint 2017-18 $360,000 Durant High Re-roofing 2018-19 $3,203,400 Asphalt repairs 2018-19 $93,170 Knights Elementary Knights Elementary Re-roofing 2017-18 $472,095 Lincoln Elementary Exterior paint 2018-19 $240,000 Plant City High Re-roofing 2015-16 $33,090 Plant City High Telephone replacement 2015-16 $148,000 Robinson Elementary Fencing replacement 2015-16 $54,000 Robinson Elementary Security upgrades 2015-16 $30,000 Simmons Career Center Canopy replacement 2018-19 $83,525 Trapnell Elementary Asphalt repairs 2016-17 $78,600 Trapnell Elementary Drainage improvements 2016-17 $36,000 Tomlin Middle Asphalt track 2018-19 $82,280 Tomlin Middle HVAC gym 2017-18 $185,000 Tomlin Middle Re-roofing 2017-18 $265,680 Tomlin Middle Exterior paint 2015-16 $169,569 Turkey Creek Middle Replace smoke doors 2016-17 $92,160 Turkey Creek Middle Bleacher replacement 2016-17 $100,000 Turkey Creek Middle Walkway canopy 2015-16 $148,267 Walden Lake Elementary HVAC renovation 2017-18 $5,844,100 Walden Lake Elementary Exterior paint 2018-19 $240,000 Walden Lake Elementary Re-roofing 2018-19 $757,160 Wilson Elementary Re-roofing 2017-18 $193,740 Total $13,925,023
Neighbors
R E A L E S TAT E | P L A N T C I T Y L I F E | O B I T UA R I E S | G A M E S | FA I T H
PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM
FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2016
Giselle Gutierrez, top five finalist
Royal FUN The Florida Strawberry Festival Grimes Family Agricultural Center was packed with guests, who cheered on 120 girls in the 2016 Junior Royalty Pageant Saturday, Jan. 9. There were four age categories, with each naming 10 top contenders, five finalists, a first maid and a winner. — Emily Topper
Winners were Kendall Gaudens, Skyler RaeAnn Barber, Peyton Hobbs and Aubrey Duncan
Olivia Claire Frazier, top five finalist
Florida Strawberry Festival
Ivy Belle Garner, top five finalist
WINNERS Baroness: Aubrey Duncan Baroness First Maid: Kennedy Duncan Duchess: Skyler RaeAnn Barber Duchess First Maid: Abigail Lee Mullis Princess: Peyton Hobbs Princess First Maid: Kate Daigle Queen: Kendall Gaudens Queen First Maid: Olivia Claire Frazier Callie Rae Smith, top 10 finalist
Kendall Spencer, top five finalist
McKenna Davis, top 10 finalist
10 PlantCityObserver.com
PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER
FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2016
REAL ESTATE by the Observer staff
Thonotosassa Road home tops December sales The home at 4906 Thonotosassa Road sold Dec. 1, for $615,000. Built in 1986, it has seven bedrooms, five and two half baths and 4,820 square feet of living area on 6.23 acres. The price per square foot is $127.59.
Alexander Woods
The home at 105 Alexander Woods Drive sold Dec. 17, for $110,000. Built in 2014, it has two bedrooms, two and one half baths and 1,466 square feet of living area on 0.05 acres. The price per square foot is $75.03.
Country Hills
The home at 4704 N. Dawnmeadow Court sold Dec. 23, for $136,900 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1998, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,290 square feet of living area on 0.14 acres. The price per square foot is $106.12. The home at 4714 S. Dawnmeadow Court sold Dec. 29, for $139,900 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,611 square feet of living area on 0.20 acres. The price per square foot is $86.84. The home at 4733 S. Dawnmeadow Court sold Dec. 28, for $104,900 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1986, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,432 square feet of living area on 0.15 acres. The price per square foot is $73.25. The home at 4624 Eastwind Drive sold Dec. 31, for $79,000. Built in 1985, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,038 square feet of living area on 0.11 acres. The price per square foot is $76.11. The home at 4507 Ethan Way sold Dec. 9, for $102,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two and one half baths and 1,408 square feet of living area
on 0.14 acres. The price per square foot is $72.44. The home at 4512 Reynolds Creek Ave. sold Dec. 18, for $157,000. Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 1,568 square feet of living area on 0.14 acres. The price per square foot is $100.13.
Highland Pines Estates
The home at 8404 Franklin Road sold Dec. 18, for $140,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1982, it has six bedrooms, four baths and 3,046 square feet of living area on 4.93 acres. The price per square foot is $45.96. The home at 6005 Ike Smith Road sold Dec. 24, for $141,513. Built in 1982, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,695 square feet of living area on 1.56 acres. The price per square foot is $83.49.
Hillsborough
The home at 2816 Annie Smith Trail sold Dec. 1, for $280,000. Built in 2008, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,091 square feet of living area on 1.16 acres. The price per square foot is $133.91. The home at 8005 S. County Line Road sold Dec. 23, for $245,000. Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,134 square feet of living area on 1.03 acres. The price per square foot is $114.81. The home at 3320 Evelyn Lakes Drive sold Dec. 8, for $244,000. Built in 1995, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,470 square feet of living area on 2.46 acres. The price per square foot is $98.79. The home at 3223 Rimes Road sold Dec. 31, for $154,900. Built in 2004, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,312 square feet of living area on 2.38 acres. The price per square foot is $67.00.
Emily Topper
A home on Thonotosassa Road sold for $615,000. The home at 2850 W. Sam Allen Road sold Dec. 4, for $144,900. Built in 2001, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,800 square feet of living area on 1.05 acres. The price per square foot is $80.50. The home at 1706 Williams Road sold Dec. 4, for $450,000. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,442 square feet of living area on 13 acres. The price per square foot is $130.74.
The home at 3709 Crystal Dew St. sold Dec. 30, for $200,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, two and one half baths and 3,068 square feet of living area on 0.15 acres. The price per square foot is $65.19.
THE STATS Minimum: $15,000 Maximum: $615,000 Average: $175,682 Median: $152,780
The home at 3105 Magnolia Meadows Drive sold Dec. 4, for $179,900. Built in 2009, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,965 square feet of living area on 0.15 acres. The price per square foot is $91.55.
Ridge Drive sold Dec. 21, for $144,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 1,789 square feet of living area on 0.16 acres. The price per square foot is $80.49.
The home at 3126 Azalea Blossom Drive sold Dec. 18, for $103,001 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,530 square feet of living area on 0.15 acres. The price per square foot is $67.32.
The home at 3226 Magnolia Meadows Drive sold Dec. 23, for $205,990. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, two and one half baths and 2,432 square feet of living area on 0.15 acres. The price per square foot is $84.70.
Walden Lake
The home at 3224 Azalea Blossom Drive sold Dec. 18, for $171,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, two and one half baths and 2,348 square feet of living area on 0.15 acres. The price per square foot is $72.83.
The home at 3230 Magnolia Meadows Drive sold Dec. 16, for $214,990. Built in 2015, it has five bedrooms, two and one half baths and 2,807 square feet of living area on 0.15 acres. The price per square foot is $76.59.
The home at 3903 Fairlea Circle sold Dec. 22, for $319,000. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, two and one half baths and 2,808 square feet of living area on 0.32 acres. The price per square foot is $113.60.
The home at 3405 San Moise Place sold Dec. 25, for $206,990. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, two and one half baths and 2,432 square feet of living area on 0.15 acres. The price per square foot is $85.11.
The home at 2703 Forest Club Drive sold Dec. 22, for $350,000. Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,178 square feet of living area on 0.47 acres. The price per square foot is $110.13.
Magnolia Green
The home at 3424 San Moise Place sold Dec. 30, for $182,990. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,672 square feet of living area on 0.15 acres. The price per square foot is $109.44. The home at 3429 San Moise Place sold Dec. 23, for $177,990. Built in 2015, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,672 square feet of living area on 0.15 acres. The price per square foot is $106.45. The home at 3430 San Moise Place sold Dec. 17, for $199,990. Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, two and one half baths and 2,263 square feet of living area on 0.15 acres. The price per square foot is $88.37.
Oakview Estates
The home at 2110 Oakview Lane sold Dec. 7, for $106,000. Built in 1977, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,506 square feet of living area on 0.28 acres. The price per square foot is $70.39. The home at 3008 Oakview Lane sold Dec. 30, for $75,500. Built in 1974, it has three bedrooms, one and one half baths and 1,275 square feet of living area on 0.25 acres. The price per square foot is $59.22.
Pinehurst North
The home at 611 Short St. sold Dec. 4, for $15,000 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 1947, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 864 square feet of living area on 0.15 acres. The price per square foot is $17.36.
Trapnell Ridge
The home at 3406 Pearl Dove Lane sold Dec. 28, for $128,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,626 square feet of living area on 0.15 acres. The price per square foot is $78.72. The home at 3512 Trapnell
The home at 2409 Clubhouse Drive sold Dec. 8, for $329,900. Built in 1995, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,038 square feet of living area on 0.34 acres. The price per square foot is $108.59.
The home at 2907 Forest Club Drive sold Dec. 11, for $295,000. Built in 1988, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,851 square feet of living area on 0.43 acres. The price per square foot is $103.47. The home at 1700 S. Golfview Drive sold Dec. 24, for $194,000. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,736 square feet of living area on 0.20 acres. The price per square foot is $111.75. The home at 2607 Lakeview Way sold Dec. 8, for $356,800. Built in 1985, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,153 square feet of living area on 0.64 acres. The price per square foot is $113.16. The home at 4203 Longfellow Drive sold Dec. 8, for $169,900. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,631 square feet of living area on 0.23 acres. The price per square foot is $104.17. The home at 3301 Kilmer Drive sold Dec. 18, for $202,980. Built in 1996, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,847 square feet of living area on 0.35 acres. The price per square foot is $109.90. The home at 3519 Kilmer Drive sold Dec. 17, for $295,000. Built in 1997, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,616 square feet of living area on 0.39 acres. The price per square foot is $112.77. The home at 2814 Pine Club Drive sold Dec. 18, for $299,000. Built in 1988, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,675 square feet of living area on 0.37 acres. The price per square foot is $111.78. The home at 2013 Preservation Drive sold Dec. 18, for $150,000. Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,549 square feet of living area on 0.05 acres. The price per square foot is $96.84.
The home at 809 Sandalwood Drive sold Dec. 7, for $147,900. Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,556 square feet of living area on 0.20 acres. The price per square foot is $95.05. The home at 1202 Sandalwood Drive sold Dec. 17, for $160,000. Built in 1987, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,822 square feet of living area on 0.22 acres. The price per square foot is $87.82. The home at 3006 Spring Hammock Drive sold Dec. 17, for $189,000. Built in 1999, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,816 square feet of living area on 0.28 acres. The price per square foot is $104.07. The home at 2712 Spring Meadow Drive sold Dec. 4, for $299,000. Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, three and one half baths and 3,157 square feet of living area on 0.38 acres. The price per square foot is $94.71. The home at 306 Valencia Court N. sold Dec. 16, for $130,000. Built in 1979, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,329 square feet of living area on 0.06 acres. The price per square foot is $97.82. The home at 1905 W. Washington St. sold Dec. 30, for $40,000. Built in 1962, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,610 square feet of living area on 0.15 acres. The price per square foot is $24.84.
Walden Pointe
The home at 3001 Via Siena St. sold Dec. 16, for $280,000. Built in 2010, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,540 square feet of living area on 0.28 acres. The price per square foot is $110.24.
Walden Woods
The home at 1876 Greenwood Valley Drive sold Dec. 3, for $121,000. Built in 2014, it has two bedrooms, two and one half baths and 1,521 square feet of living area on 0.02 acres. The price per square foot is $79.55. The home at 2056 Greenwood Valley Drive sold Dec. 16, for $130,000. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 1,572 square feet of living area on 0.02 acres. The price per square foot is $82.70. The home at 704 Wiltonway sold Dec. 3, for $152,780. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, two and one half baths and 1,579 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $96.76.
Whispering Woods
The home at 2619 Walden Woods Drive sold Dec. 10, for $189,000. Built in 2011, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,857 square feet of living area on 0.19 acres. The price per square foot is $101.78. The home at 2627 Walden Woods Drive sold Dec. 10, for $224,000. Built in 2011, it has four bedrooms, two and one half baths and 2,736 square feet of living area on 0.25 acres. The price per square foot is $81.87. Read more listings at PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM
PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER
PlantCityObserver.com
FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2016
Observer
Obituaries Stewart “Stu” Angel
Stewart “Stu” Angel, 79, of Plant City, and born in Michigan, died Jan. 2, 2016. Mr. Angel was a successful real estate realtor/broker with CRS and CRB Designations, and a veteran of the United States Army. He was a volunteer for many civic and community endeavors. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Karen Angel; and many other family and friends. A celebration of life was held Jan. 9 at Hopewell Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society - Prostate, at Cancer.org. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral. com.
Ellen Blankenship
Ellen Blankenship, 77, of Plant City, and born in Moultrie, Georgia, died Dec. 26, 2015. Mrs. Blankenship is survived by her husband of 44 years, Gary Blankenship; daughters, Debra Doolittle, of Tampa, Brenda King (Kenny), of Plant City, Linda Sansom, of Plant City and Robin Christensen (James), of Lakeland; father, Laurent Dorsey, of Plant City; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and dog, Happy. She was preceded in death by her son, Ricky Brock; and mother, Versa Dorsey. A service was held Jan. 5, at Hopewell Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to LifePath Hospice, Development Dept., 12470 Telecom Drive, Suite 300, Temple
Terrace, FL 33637. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral. com.
Patricia “Tricia” Jean Cauley
Patricia “Tricia” Jean Cauley, 54, of Plant City, and born in Fullerton, California, died Dec. 20, 2015. Mrs. Cauley was active in the community and touched many lives. She loved her family, and she enjoyed reading, sewing and dancing. She is survived by her husband, J.D. Cauley; sons, Jarrod Cauley (fiancee Tracey Winters), of Valrico, and Ethan Cauley (fiancee Taylor Pettys), of Plant City; granddaughters, Harper Jean and MacKenzie; siblings, Sheila Lyons (Barry), of Ohio, and David Sherron, of Arizona; and many other family and friends. A celebration of life was held Dec. 23, 2015, at Hopewell Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society at P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 73123. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral. com.
David Desorcy
David Desorcy, 25, of Plant City, died Thursday, Jan. 7, 2016. A native of Plant City, Mr. Desorcy was the son of Paul Desorcy and Theresa O’Connor Desorcy. He was a graduate of the Plant City High School class of 2008, where he was a member of the ROTC. He enjoyed math, computers, playing pool, target shooting and singing in a bar-
bershop quartet. He played the cello and viola, and taught himself to play the piano. He enjoyed puzzles of all types, especially the Rubik’s Cube. He is survived by his parents; brother, Daniel Desorcy; sister, Claire Desorcy; and grandparents, Ann and Albert O’Connor. Services will be private. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.
Dane Freddie Dreggors
Dane Freddie Dreggors, 23, of Plant City, died Dec. 20, 2015. Mr. Dreggors was a member of First Baptist Church of Plant City and attended East Rogersville Baptist Church during his childhood in Tennessee. He was a very active young man and had a great passion for baseball. He was employed at Patterson Companies and was a coach of the Plant City Angels youth baseball team. He also played on a softball team with his dad on Wednesday nights. He will be remembered for his huge heart and love of adventure. He is survived by his fiancee, Krista Ramsey; parents, Keith and Lisa Dreggors; sister, Lauren Gladson (Forrest); nieces, Tinsley and Landry Gladson, of Rogersville, Tennessee; grandparents, Freddie and Janice Dreggors, and Donnie and Norma Price; aunts, Kristi Wetherington (Ken) and Michelle Schmitt (Mike); and cousins, Brock and Ericka Wetherington, and Matthew and Joseph Schmitt. A celebration of life was held Dec. 23, at First Baptist Church of Plant City. In lieu of flowers, donations
may be made to The American Heart Association, P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, Texas, 75284-0692, or the Plant City Angels Baseball Team. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral. com.
Tommy Ellison
Tommy Ellison, 63, of Lake Wales, and formerly of Plant City, died Jan. 4, 2016. Mr. Ellison was born in Jessup, Georgia. He retired from Rigsby’s Auto Salvage. He loved his family, and he enjoyed fishing and playing cards. He was preceded in death by his wife, Maureen N. Ellison. He is survived by his children, T.J. Ellison (Nikki), of Zephyrhills, and Amanda Grossman (Leo), of Plant City; grandchildren, Kristin, Jakob, Garrett, Hayden and Liam; brothers, Jimmy and Sam Messick; and many other family and friends. A celebration of life was held Jan. 11 at Hopewell Funeral Home. Committal followed at Hopewell Memorial Gardens. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral. com.
Stephen “Porkchop” Webster Fox
Stephen “Porkchop” Webster Fox, 46, of Plant City, died Dec. 21, 2015. Mr. Fox loved spending time with family, and traveling with work. He is survived by his mother, Carolyn G. Buechler (Joe), of Plant City; siblings, Angela Reese and Christy Dawn Fox, of Plant City, and Adam Teichner (Julie), of Navarre; and grandmother, Helen Gallagher, of Starke. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Barry Fox; brother, Michael Barry Fox; and grandfather, LaVaughn Tyner. A memorial service was held Dec. 30, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral. com.
Dorothy Glaros
Myrtle “Teat” Pizzi
Juanita R. TurnerMcLaughlin
Sarah Jane Robison
Dorothy Glaros, 90, of Plant City, died Saturday, Jan. 2, 2016, at her home. A native of Plant City, Ms. Glaros was the daughter of Jack and Margaret Griffith Glaros. She was a typesetter and press operator for Quality Printers and worked for Wimberly Florists. She is survived by her brothers, George and Billy Glaros. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Virginia Laacksonen, Ewanna Billings, Eileen Waits and Jack Glaros Jr. A funeral service was held Jan. 6 at Haught Funeral Home. Interment followed at Memorial Park Cemetery. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Good Shepherd Hospice Aqua Team. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.
Juanita R. Turner-McLaughlin, 97, of Plant City, died Dec. 30, 2015, after a courageous battle against cancer. Mrs. Turner-McLaughlin was born July 24, 1918 in Bower, West Virginia to the late Aubrey and Thelma Westfall. A lifelong Methodist, she attended Grace United Methodist Church in Plant City, where she lived and worked as a homemaker and a cosmetologist. She also enjoyed waterskiing and square dancing. She is survived by her husband, Joseph McLaughlin; daughter, Marianne Carpenter (Watson); daughter-inlaw, Jeannie R. Turner-DeGain; grandsons, Matthew D. Barker (Deborah Ortiz), Paul S. Barker and James L. Turner; and great-granddaughter Katarina Barker-Ortiz. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Stasel P. Turner; and son, Robert L. Turner. A service was held Jan. 13, at Grace United Methodist Church. Arrangements entrusted to National Cremation & Burial Society, Ruskin, Florida.
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Myrtle “Teat” Pizzi, 92, of Plant City, died Jan. 2, 2016. Mrs. Pizzi loved her family and she loved to garden. She will be missed. She is survived by her son, Larry Pizzi (April Ray-Pizzi), of Atlanta; daughter-in-law, Laura Currier; sister, Gloria Straz (Joe); grandchildren, Meranda, Dustin, Victoria, Adrienne and Annmarie; and great-grandchildren, Elijah, Isaiah, Jaden, Kaisen, Marshall and Aubrey. She was preceded in death by her husband, Daniel Pizzi; son, Maurice Nicholas Pizzi; and daughter, Kathrine Gallotta. A service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 24, at Hopewell Memorial Gardens, 6005 S. County Line Road 39, Plant City. Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial. com. Sarah Jane Robison, 72, died Dec. 24, 2015, in Plant City. Ms. Robison is survived by her sister, niece and two nephews. There are no services scheduled. Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial. com.
Dustin Sumner
Dustin Sumner, 29, of Dover, died Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2016, in Plant City. A native of Brandon, Mr. Sumner was the son of Kenneth Sumner and Teresa (Amos) Higginbotham. He is survived by his parents; brother, Eric Sumner; step-sisters, Tashell Tallent and Whitney McKay; grandparents, Dorothy Overstreet, Gene (Betty) Sumner and Norma Smith. Services will be private. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.
Sports
YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | COMMUNITY
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Mack Thompson kicks competition to the curb. 14 SPONSOREDBYCOURTNEYPAAT|STATEFARM
FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2016
PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM
SOCCER by Justin Kline |SportsEditor
Soccer wraps up regular season Girls teams are done with district tournaments, but the boys have yet to play. As the regular season has come to an end, many local teams have something to be happy about entering the district tournaments. In particular, the girls soccer picture has been shaken up by the efforts of all three area schools.
LADY COUGARS
Justin Kline
Durant’s girls soccer team was the biggest surprise of the 201516 season.
WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?
For the past few years, Plant City enjoyed life as the top dog in the area. There’s still a dominant, one-loss team in town these days, but it’s on the other end of the Redman rivalry. Durant finished the season with an 8-1-3 (2-0-3 district), earning a first-round bye in the district tourney and sending off its seniors on a hot streak. After playing East Bay
to an 0-0 tie on Dec. 16, the Lady Cougars returned from winter break with 8-0 and 9-0 home wins over Freedom and Lennard, respectively. The Lady Cougars outscored opponents, 48-12, and lost only to Plant on Dec. 10. Susan Peet’s squad mercyruled the Lady Longhorns by halftime in the final game of the season, etching this team in the school’s books as one of the best regular-season efforts in program history.
LADY RAIDERS
The Lady Raiders started out well, as usual. The team outscored Gaither and Lennard, 16-0 in the first two games but faltered around mid-season.
The team did go up big whenever it won, allowing five goals while scoring 46. But when teams either kept it close or went up by two goals, things didn’t go so well. Plant City was outscored, 13-4, in its losses, which include a 5-0 loss to Newsome on Dec. 15 and back-to-back losses to East Bay and Durant on Dec. 4 and 8. It finished with a 7-4-0 (2-3-0 district) record. In the first round of the district tournament, Plant City was upset, 1-0, by Strawberry Crest.
LADY CHARGERS
Things are also looking up for the Lady Chargers. Crest posted a 6-6-1 (1-3-1 district) regular-season re-
SEE SOCCER / PAGE 14
BASKETBALL by Justin Kline |SportsEditor
SEE KLINE / PAGE 13
Do you have a good Sports scoop for us? Email Justin Kline at jkline@ plantcityobserver.com, or Tweet us at @PCTOSports.
SOCCER
+ Lady Cougar scores rare goal In the first half of girls action Thursday, Jan. 7, a Durant player scored one of the rarer goals in the world’s most popular game. Kiara Romero put an exclamation mark on the game by scoring an olímpico goal from the left corner. An olímpico goal is a goal scored directly off of a corner kick without contact by another player. This unique type of goal was named after Argentine striker Cesareo Onzari, who scored on a corner kick in a 1924 friendly against Uruguay. Video of the goal can be found at the following link: Youtu.be/sYFTvSaeS1o.
PARKS & REC
On Plant City’s golf dilemma As my colleague, Amber Jurgensen, pointed out in last Friday’s story about the Walden Lake debate, golf’s going through some tricky times. Although I haven’t ever covered the golf course’s rezoning debate, I’ve been following both sides closely over the past couple of years. As both the resident “Sports Guy” and a completely neutral party, I think now is the time to share my personal JUSTIN opinion. KLINE With the way the numbers look, both in Plant City and across the country, I believe Walden Lake’s course needs to be rezoned and redeveloped — badly. I know there are quite a few readers out there that are opposed to the rezoning, but hear me out: the construction may cause property values to dip for a little while but, once the construction wraps up, they’ll be much higher than they would be if the rezoning movement were to be blocked. Right now — and if nothing happens after a rezoning attempt is denied — we’re looking at a $2 chuck steak on the menu for $20. Getting people to golf these days can be tricky, as we’re learning. I’ve covered the decline of youth golf in the recent past, and I’m of the opinion that the cost of golf is a large reason why. It’s one thing for niche sports like hockey to be associated with high costs, as they can only be played in certain areas under certain conditions, but golf is popular around the world and, in many areas, can be played outdoors all year. It’s one of the few sports that almost anyone can play for their entire life, should they wish. The golf course is a place where some of America’s biggest sports heroes were made, but also the site of many great stories and
SIDELINES
+ Flag football tourney coming
Photos by Justin Kline
Terra Brooks has been a defensive stalwart for Crest.
CREAM
+ Cross Guard MMA does well Plant City-based mixed martial arts school Cross Guard BJJ recently took its competitive team to the NAGA PanAms, in Lakeland, and performed well.
oftheCrop Strawberry Crest’s girls basketball team is on the verge of an undefeated season.
W
ho’s got it better than the Strawberry Crest girls basketball team? Right now, the answer is nobody. The Lady Chargers have made program history by winning all 20 of its games this season, often by a large margin. While the program has been one of the Plant City area’s elite under head coach La’Tosha Lewis, this red-hot start is among the best the area’s ever seen. And now, the team is one game away from calling it an undefeated season. What are these athletes doing out there that’s working so well?
MAKING IT HAPPEN
This year, Crest is making the most out of its loaded frontcourt. Much of its scor-
ing output comes from the Matthews twins, Ayanna and Brianna, who average a combined 28.7 points per game. On their own, that would be enough to win nine of the Lady Chargers’ games thus far. Add in the 11.6 per game from senior Terra Brooks, and the total of 40.3 would win the team 15 games. Ayanna Matthews, a recent Plant City Times & Observer Athlete of the Week, is one of the team’s primary scoring options. But this year, her sister leads the team with 3.2 assists per game, over a full dime more than Ayanna Matthews’ 2.1 per game. Of course, those aren’t the only three players making an impact. Big victory margins wouldn’t have been possible
CHARGERS / PAGE 13
A month after hosting the United Youth Football League National Championships, the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex is set to host yet another football tournament. This time, flag and touch football are the games on deck. The United States Flag and Touch Football League National Championships are set to go from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 15, and Saturday, Jan. 16, and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 17, at both the Otis M. Andrews complex and EllisMethvin Park. Around 400 teams from the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, covering several age groups, will see action. Information about the tournament can be found online at the USFTL website, usftl.com/ nationals/.
CAN THEY DO IT? The last matchup of the regular season will be Wednesday, Jan. 20, at Hillsborough High School. The Lady Terriers have not had a good season, sporting a 3-13 (3-5 district) record through Jan. 6. They started the season with a 1-5 record through Dec. 4, losing their first five, and lost five more games before a Dec. 18 win over Blake. After a 53-28 loss to Middleton Jan. 6, Hillsborough hasn’t posted any further information online. For Crest fans, that’s a good sign. Any that wish to watch the Lady Chargers’ bid for perfection in person should know that tipoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m., at Hillsborough High School, 5000 N. Central Ave., Tampa.
RESULTS Jacob Clark: first place (gi), third place (no gi) Logan Ausburn: first place (gi, no gi) Jayden Ausburn: second place (gi) Madison Felker: first place (gi), second place (no gi) Conner Scott: first place (gi) Nick Scott: second place (gi) Malachi Powell: third place (gi) Shaz Simmons: first place (gi), second place (no gi) Lance Hart: first place (no gi) R.J. Lupton: first place (gi) Bill Saunders: second place (gi) David Lane: second place (gi) Jeremy Platt: third place (no gi) Roko Mateljak: second place (no gi) Shawn Cooney: second place (gi), third place (no gi)
PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER
PlantCityObserver.com
FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2016
FOCUS ON FITNESS
CHARGERS / PAGE 12
It’s not too late for a New Year’s resolution
if not for Crest’s stifling defense, which is grabbing 34.1 rebounds per game, as well as 18.5 steals and 3.2 blocks. This is also where Brooks shines brightest — she leads the team with averages of 9.6 boards and 1.7 blocks. Senior India Corbin’s 6.2 boards per game are also crucial to the Crest machine. The Lady Chargers aren’t a high-efficiency squad, having shot 37% from the field (24% from three-point range). But teams don’t average 63 points per game without taking a lot of shots, and the Chargers put up nearly 56 shots per game. Of these shots, 226 have been threepointers, and sophomore Luz Cruz has both attempted (82) and made (25) the most. Cruz, playing on the wing, has shown potential to improve upon her 30% threepoint shooting mark and be a key for Crest’s future. Taking so many shots also requires getting a lot of pos-
Making a New Year’s resolution can be traced to Roman times with promises made to the Roman god Janus, for whom the month of January is named. Many similar resolution traditions continue around the world today. Let’s look at some ways to use this tradition to improve your life. Common goals include improving JENNIFER health with CLOSSHEY regular exercise, healthy eating and the ever-popular, “let’s lose some weight.” Today, more Americans make New Year’s resolutions than ever before, and estimates show 40% of adult Americans set a New Year’s goal related to their health. But how successful are they? According to a 2007 survey of over 3,000 people conducted by British psychologist Richard Wiseman, 88% of those who set New Year’s resolutions fail. Some don’t remember their original intention. Others set goals so unrealistic they cannot be achieved. And still others don’t know if they’ve achieved their goal because they didn’t keep track of their progress. Here are some simple guidelines to ensure you have success with your New Year’s resolutions this year: STAY GROUNDED | Set achievable goals that are measurable, including a date for completion. Ask yourself, “Can I realistically make this happen?” PLAN | Determine an action plan to see your goals materialize. What do you need to do to “get’er done” by your deadline? DOCUMENT | Write down your goals and action plan. Share your plan with one or two friends. These friends will bring accountability, helping to keep you on track. RECORD | Monitor daily progress of your activity against your plan. Share these results with your friends for accountability.
EXAMPLE n Mary’s goal is to lose 10 pounds by March 31 while toning her body. n Mary’s action plan is to exercise for 30 minutes, five times a week and to decrease her calories by 35%. Mary likes what she eats so she plans to simply reduce her serving size by 35%. Mary believes this plan will enable her to lose one pound per week which will easily get her to her 10 pound weight loss goal before the end of March. n As a back up plan, Mary determines if she misses an exercise day, she will eliminate her sweet tea for that day and the following day. Mary believes this corrective action will keep her on track for her goal completion. If, at the end of January, Mary has not seen results of a 4-pound weight loss, she plans to drop her sugary drinks from her diet in total. Sounds like a great plan, wouldn’t you agree? It’s not too late to make your own plan. Today is the best day to start. Jennifer E. Closshey, Ph.D., is a doctor of integrative holistic health based out of Plant City. She teaches restorative yoga classes at the Plant City Family YMCA on Thursdays.
KLINE / PAGE 12 many more business deals. It can cost a pretty penny to get into the golf scene, and I’m not just talking about how you’ll spend an arm and a leg getting gear that’s just above “decent.” Although there are public courses (and youth programs) that will let you golf without threatening your wallet, many ask for well over $30 per round. That’s not bad when you have the money but, if you’re passionate about getting better and have a tight budget, you could easily be priced out of fun, challenging courses. Here’s what got me going: I pulled up the public rates for Walden Lake over the weekend and, while there were a couple of good things to be found (you could get a Thursday tee time for as low as $20.46), the weekend/ early-week rates are high. From Saturday through Tuesday, you’re not getting on that course before 11 a.m. for under $39. On the weekends, you’re not getting on for less than $42 if you’re not willing to show up after 10:33 a.m., though the prices do dip down to $25 later in the day. I am by no means a decent or particularly dedicated golfer, but I do know a $42 course when I see one. Given its current state, Walden Lake does not have anything close to a $42 course. When I’m visiting friends in Polk County — that is, the guys at my skill level — we like to hit up Lake Bess Golf Course. Lake Bess does not have the kind of course and atmosphere Walden Lake aspires to have, but it’s both player-friendly and wellmaintained. You can get a cart and get on there any time, any day for $21 (or $30 for a full 18 holes). It also offers a $9 fee for golfers age 15 and under. It may not cater to the wants of golf’s more affluent practitioners but, for younger golfers or people on a tight budget, it’s a good look. I know that Walden Lake residents have high hopes for
sessions, and Crest has been adept at forcing turnovers. The Matthews twins, Brooks and senior Sydnie Miller make up most of Crest’s steals totals, but there are only four players that average less than one per game — and three of them are only sophomores. Crest isn’t following the same formula as it has in recent years but, if it’s shown any kind of pattern in the numbers, it’s that the team excels at something different each year.
ACROSS THE BOARD
In the past three seasons, Crest teams have won no fewer than 20 total games and averaged roughly 63 points and 11 assists per contest. Those outputs rarely fluctuate, but other stats do. Last year’s team, led by Brooks and Maiya Trigg, made up for lower steals and rebounding numbers with high scoring efficiency. That team shot an excellent 53% from the field, averaging almost two points per possession.
the future of their course(s) but, at the moment, this outsider sees a lack of selfawareness that’s not doing any good for the near future. Talking to people who play the course more often than I have has reinforced my belief. Perhaps pricing the golf course more appropriately would not only help book some tee times for now, but also bring in some more money to fix at least a few of the problems. Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.
It also averaged a whopping 7.5 blocks per game, swatting more than twice as many shots as the current squad. The 2013-14 team, which starred Aliyah Gregory, gave teams nightmares by averaging 22.4 steals per game. Most of them came from Gregory herself — she averaged 6.6 per game — and that led in part to her scoring almost one third (20.7) of the team’s 62.6 points per game. Although Brooks is set to graduate, the return of the Matthews twins suggests that many of next year’s totals will look similar to this year’s. And, with the way players like Cruz are developing, losing five seniors to graduation this year might not be so devastating. Whether Crest wins or loses its final game, one thing is certain: few coaches in the area know how to maximize talents like Lewis. Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver. com.
I am by no means a decent or particularly dedicated golfer, but I do know a $42 course when I see one. Given its current state,Walden Lake does not have anything close to a $42 course.
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14 PlantCityObserver.com BOYS TOURNEY The Class 5A-District 6 will be held from Tuesday, Jan. 19, through Friday, Jan. 22 at Riverview High School, 11311 Boyette Road, Riverview. The championship game will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 22. Admission is $6 per game, according to the FHSAA.
SOCCER / PAGE 12 cord, that, although forgettable in district play, showed some life against neutral teams. The team started out with a 2-0 record following wins over Wharton (5-3) and Lennard (4-2) and played a solid Newsome squad to a 2-2 tie. The Lady Chargers closed things out with an 8-0 win over Blake on Jan. 7 — the team’s biggest win of the season. In the first round of the district tournament, Crest got revenge for its 6-2 loss at Plant City on Dec. 16. The Lady Chargers were able to score in extra time to pick up a 1-0 win over their crosstown rivals, setting up a Dec. 12 rematch with Newsome.
DURANT BOYS
Things weren’t so hot on the Durant boys’ side, but
the Cougars did get to end regular-season play on a good note. Durant posted a 4-7-1 (13-1 district) regular-season record, struggling to find its scoring touch until January. The team had a 1-6-1 record before winning three of its final four matches. It got back on track with a 2-1 win over East Bay on Dec. 16 and went undefeated in January. The Cougars outscored Freedom and Lennard, 6-3, on Jan. 5 and 7, respectively.
PLANT CITY BOYS
Fortunately for PCHS, the boys have played well throughout this season. The Raiders finished the regular season with a 6-1-4 (11-3 district), only taking a 2-1 loss against Riverview on Nov. 18. Plant City had little trouble scoring goals. The team netted 44 total, including 10 in the final game of the season, and it was generally able to hold big leads. But, when teams played the Raiders close, they were often able to hang in. Three of the Raiders’ four ties — versus East Bay, Newsome and Middleton — held 2-2 scores, and the Dec. 8 Durant game ended in a 1-1 tie. In fact, the only December game that did not end in a tie was the Dec. 11, 4-1 win at Freedom.
PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER
FRIDAY, JANUARY 15, 2016
Having ended the season with a Jan. 5, 3-1 win over Crest and a Jan. 8, 10-2 win over Spoto, Plant City enters the district tourney with plenty of momentum.
CREST BOYS
For roughly half of the season, Strawberry Crest proved to be a streaky team. The Chargers got off to a red-hot start, winning their first four games by a combined score of 11-3. In mid-November, the team went on a cold streak and dropped three consecutive matches — in which Crest was outscored, 7-3. Crest then got in the habit of winning every other game, starting with a 4-1 win over East Bay on Dec. 8. It dropped a 4-0 match at Riverview on Dec. 15, followed by a 3-2 win at Armwood two days later. The team came back from winter break with a 3-1 loss at Plant City Jan. 5. Most recently, Crest picked up a solid 5-2 win at Blake on Jan. 7 — the team’s highest-scoring game of the year. The Chargers are set to host Wharton Friday, Jan. 15, at 7 p.m., in what will be the team’s final game of the year. Contact Justin Kline at j k l i n e @ p l a n t c i t y o b s e r v e r. com.
ATHLETE OFTHEWEEKSPONSOREDBYCOURTNEYPAAT|STATEFARM
MACKTHOMPSON One of the keys to Durant soccer’s great season is its strong senior core. New head coach Susan Peet is quick to point out that, while all have played well, forward Jacquelyn “Mack” Thompson’s soccer IQ and scoring touch are crucial to the unit’s success. It looks to me like you all have had a great season. In your opinion, how did it go? I think, this year, it’s gone very well for us. Especially with new coaches coming in — it’s had a big effect on us. They’ve really helped us a lot as a team, helped us find each other more, been available for us and helped us get comfortable with each other on the field. It’s been easier connecting passes. Also, with most of us being upperclassmen, we’ve just wanted this bad. All five of us seniors, we’ve wanted this for so long. We knew this year was going to be our dominant year. What are some of the changes you’ve all had to make to improve like this? I’ve got to say the effort. We added a lot of new players, only two freshmen, but a lot of new players that have moved here. With their experience, it’s been a big effect. We’ve been very confident in ourselves this year, and we’ve all had positive attitudes on and off the field. We all just get along really well. How have you, personally, improved this season? I think, definitely, the different coaching style — having a new coach almost every year, the last four years I’ve been playing for Durant. With coach (Peet) being my last one here, she’s helped me open up a little more and noticed some things I’ve never noticed. I’ll be able to put these things into my college experience and my club experience as well. You and several of your teammates won a national championship with Tampa Bay United this season too. Yes, we won the U17 national championship. So you all had a little bit of a championship pedigree heading into the postseason. I know this will run after the East Bay game, but how do you like your chances?
I think, with this group of girls, they’re really focused. They’re really excited to be playing in the district games. I think we’re going to be wellprepared. What’s your proudest moment from this season? Everyone can agree — it’s when we tied Newsome, 2-2. That’s a game I think I’ll never forget. I scored both of those goals off of set plays from Cat Headley’s serves into the box. I think the excitement we got, even though we tied, it felt like a win. Their heads went down.
Newsome is a very good team on both sides of the field. It was pretty overwhelming, pretty exciting. Any college plans? In my sophomore year, I verbally committed to UCF, so I will be heading there shortly after graduation to start my college soccer career. How long have you been playing? I started when I was around 4 years old, and started club when I was 9 years old, so, a very long time. About 13 years. What’s the coolest thing you’ve ever done on a soccer field? Scoring off of throw-ins. I’ve been able to score a couple of those goals a season, throughout four years. What’s your favorite position to play? In high school, I like playing forward. I like to score goals. My main position is center back, and I’d say that’s my favorite position. I just like shutting down the players. Are there any sports you’ve always wanted to try, but never got the chance to? I’ve always wanted to try flag football and track. A girl on my team, Rebekah Anderson, and I are going to probably train with the track team. She’s also going off to college for soccer, so her and I are going to train with the track team and practice to get ourselves fit for college. She’s going to USF — she committed this past year. It would be good for us to prepare ourselves for the high level of play we have ahead of us. What do you hope to accomplish between now and graduation? Getting past some of my exams, for sure. I definitely want to get A’s and B’s on these exams, boost my GPA up and go to college knowing I had good grades. My coaches will see that too. — Justin Kline