01.16.14 Plant City Times & Observer

Plant City Times &

Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

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INSIDE

SPOTLIGHT

Bicyclists show pedal power at Dean’s Ride.

Meet the Florida Strawberry Festival queen contestants.

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OUR TOWN

FREE • THURSDAY, JANUARY 16, 2014

SPORTS Plant City High baseball team reveals new digs.

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investment by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

New owner plans to flip Red Rose Pinellas Park-based businessman Louis Spiro bought the hotel as a short-term investment.

+ Marshall FFA shines at contests FFA students at Marshall Middle School brought home plenty of awards so far this year. In preparation for their sub-district Career Development Events, the students earned accolades in several categories: • Opening and Closing Ceremonies, first place.

Team members include Destiny Cox, Alexa Diaz, Kenzie Shelby, Serenity Jopek-Miller, Zoe Odom, Reghan Telfer and Sienna Bradberry.

• Prepared Public Speaking, first place: Hannah Spivey • Extemporaneous Public Speaking, second place: Destiny Cox • Public Speaking, third place: Kenzie Collins • Parliamentary Procedure, third place.

Team members include Destiny Cox, Hannah Spivey, Kenzie Collins, Chad Grassel, Michael Merrill and Alyssa Johnson.

Teams were coached by Adviser Alicia Price and Valerie Donatiello.

It’s been a long time coming, but the Red Rose Inn & Suites has finally sold.

The buyer, LBMT Properties LLC, is led by Louis Spiro, of Pinellas Park. Spiro purchased the 261room Red Rose for $1.5 million.

But, despite the new owner, Plant City residents won’t see any major overhaul or “coming soon” signs.

Spiro only bought it as a short-term investment.

“We’re going to remodel it, resell,” Spiro said. “That’s what we do: We buy things and re-market.”

The Red Rose has been sitting vacant for the past 18 months. Spiro said it needed to be cleaned before

selling it. He hopes to put it on the market in the next month or so. He doesn’t have an idea of what the asking price will be or any potential buyers at this point.

“Still researching and finding out the best feasibility,” Spiro said.

Spiro did not attend the Aug. 16 auction last year, in Lakeland, which featured the Red Rose, as well as a plethora of other properties and equipment owned by Evelyn and Batista Madonia. At the auction, a $2.1 million bid was placed for the Red Rose but not accepted. It was $100,000 less than the Madonias paid in 2002, not to mention the $4 million they spent in renovations.

The Madonias had made their fortune in the tomato business as East Coast Brokers & Packers. The real estate and equipment assets of East Coast Brokers & Packers have been sold off through several auctions handled by Murray Wise through Crosby and Associates Inc., Woltz & Associates and Weeks Auction Co. Inc. The sales, including the Red Rose, generated $77.3 million, but creditors are owed at least $100 million.

But, it was the Red Rose that captivated the attention of Tampa Bay. After the pricey renovations,

SEE RED ROSE / PAGE 4

HISTORY LESSON

by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

Plant City kicks off annual MLK celebration Drew Knotts won the Queen title.

Tory Wegner took the Princess title.

COMPETING FOR THE

CROWNS

+ Calling all local artists The East Hillsborough Art Guild is already planning for the 2014 Florida Strawberry Festival Fine Art Show. With less than two months until entry day, the group now is accepting artists’ submissions.

All art entries will be accepted from noon to 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21.

Artists are encouraged to take advantage of the early entry option, printed on the rules side of the form.

Although this is not a juried show, space is limited. For complete rules and forms, visit the East Hillsborough Art Guild website, ehagfinearts. com, or contact Debra Bryant, stfestartshow@ gmail.com.

Kayla Troupe It was all glitz and glamour Jan. 11, at the Florida Strawberry Festival’s Junior Royalty Pageant. More than 100 girls competed for the titles. All wore dazzling smiles and sparkling gowns — much to the delight of the parents, siblings and friends in the audience. For complete coverage, visit PlantCityObserver.com.

2014 JUNIOR ROYALTY

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

, 3&

2014 WINNERS

QUEEN Queen: Drew Knotts Runner up: Deanna Alexis Rodriguez Court: Ariel Anai Navarette, Kiersten Faith Struth, Kayla Troupe PRINCESS Princess: Tory Wegner Runner Up: Kendall Gaudens Court: Lacie Lynn Collins, Avery Laverne Surrency, Kaily Marie Yacinich DUCHESS Duchess: Giselle Gutierrez Runner up: Trinitee Michele Davis Court: Milee Hasting, Sara Grace Sparkman, Paige Zarecor BARONESS Baroness: Abigail Lee Mullis Runner Up: Kaylynn Morie Woodard Court: Kiera Folsom, Ava Rose Futch, Madelynn Hardwick

This week’s winner is

Erin Carter

See her photo on PAGE 14.

Courtesy of Tampa Bay Times

New Red Rose owner Louis Spiro said he plans to clean the hotel and then put it back on the market.

Taylor Brianne Grimes

Emma Leiss

SEE MORE PHOTOS ON PAGE 4

INDEX Calendar.......................2

The celebration will feature a parade, live music, carnival rides and much more.

The staff of the Martin Luther King Recreation Center has big plans for this coming weekend.

The recreation center will host its annual four-day MLK Festival, celebrating the life and achievements of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. And, this year, the plans are as big as ever.

To kick things off, the center will host the opening ceremony from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17. The Rev. Maxie Miller will be speaking at the event, after a welcome by Plant City officials. There also will be performances by the Lincoln IB Elementary Choir and Marshall Middle School’s Gentlemen’s Quest group. This event is free to the public, and the center staff encourages city employees to stop by whenever they can and have lunch.

Also on Friday will be Youth Night at the carnival midway, held at the MLK Sports Complex. From 5 until 10 p.m., Plant City youths will enjoy all their favorite carnival games and have a little fun after dinner.

Jan. 18 will be the most actionpacked day of the festival. The carnival midway will open at 10 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. Then, the parade will be held from 1 to 2 p.m., starting at Waller Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and ending at the sports complex.

Bettye Goodwine, local retired teacher and Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority alumna, will be this year’s parade marshal. This parade will feature appearances by the Tampa Bay Pose Cor-

SEE MLK / PAGE 4

INSIDE

For a complete schedule, see Community Calendar, page 2.

Vol. 1, No. 25 | One section Crossword...................14

Obituaries...................10

Sports.........................11

Weather ......................14

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COMMUNITYCALENDAR THURSDAY, JAN. 16 Born to Run — weekly run takes place at 5:30 p.m. Thursdays, at Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City.

(813) 752-9100.

Business After Hours — takes place from 5:15 to 7 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 16, at Fairfield Inn, 4307 Sterling Commerce Drive, Plant City. Visit plantcity. org.

Diabetes Self Management Education — takes place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. Glenda Williams. (813) 307-8015, Ext. 7111.

Joint Pain? Resolve It in 2014 — takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16, at First United Methodist Church of Plant City, Wesley Centre, 303 N. Evers St. Drs. Scott Goldsmith and Jeff Watson will discuss the newest orthopedic treatment options available for painful shoulder, hip, knee and rotator cuff conditions. Heavy appetizers will be served. Registration required; free. (813) 644-6720.

Read with Bonnie the Therapy Dog — takes place from 4 to 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. (813) 757-9215.

Ribbon Cutting: AWCoffee.com — takes place from 11 to 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 16, at the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, 106 N. Evers St., Plant City. Visit plantcity.org.

FRIDAY, JAN. 17 AARP Driver Safety — takes

place from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. (813) 757-9215.

Board Game Night — takes place from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. Attendees will play Zombicide, an exciting board game where you try to survive the zombie apocalypse. (813) 7579215.

Uncork Your Weekend with Skip Frye — live music from 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17, at Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City.

(813) 752-9100.

SATURDAY, JAN. 18 Strawberry Ball — takes place at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, at the Florida Strawberry Festival Agricultural Center, 2301 W. Oak Ave. Strawberry Classic Car Show — takes place from 4 to 9 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 18, at 102 N. Palmer St. For more, visit plantcity.org.

Uncork Your Weekend with Wilder Road Boys — live music from 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, at Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. (813) 7529100.

SUNDAY, JAN. 19 Trevor Thomas Jubilee Day — takes place 6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19, at Shiloh Baptist Church, 905 W. Terrace Drive. This special day will be a celebration of the previous year of ministry for

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: meng@plantcityobserver.com. Photos are welcome. Deadline is noon Thursday.

Trevor Thomas Drama Ministries.

There will be no charge for admission; however, a love offering will be received. (813) 7547445 or trevorthomasdramaministries.com.

Wild Horse Ministries — takes place from 12:30 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19, at the Hillsborough County Fair, State Road 60 and Sydney Washer Road. Event features a free barbecue dinner, horse demonstrations, Cowboy Up Ministry service and more. All proceeds donated to Wild Horse Ministries.

For more, visit wildhorseministries.com.

MONDAY, JAN. 20 Beginner Square Dance Lessons — classes take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Mondays, at Strawberry Square, 4401 Promenade Blvd., Plant City.

First class is free. Plus Square Dance Lessons begin from 8 to 9:30 p.m. (813) 752 0491.

Diabetes Management Series: The Journey for Control — Class begins from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 20, at the South Florida Baptist Hospital Community Conference Room, 301 N. Alexander St., Plant City.

Registration and pre-payment require; $10 for series. (813) 644-6720 or BayCareEvents.org.

TUESDAY, JAN. 21 Enrollment Assistance Program (Affordable Care Act) — takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 21, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. For more information, call Machelle

6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 21, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. Nicole Halle, (813) 8542414 or nhalle@elite-management.net.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 22 Windows 7: File Storage and Devices — class takes place from 11 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Jan. 22, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. (813) 757-9215.

PLANT CITY MLK FESTIVAL FRIDAY, JAN. 17 11:30 a.m.: Opening ceremony at Plant City MLK Recreation Center, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Plant City. Cermony will feature the Rev. Maxie Miller, the Lincoln Elementary IB Choir and Drummer Club, and Marshall Middle School’s Gentlemen’s Quest. Carnival rides and midway will be open to the public.

SATURDAY, JAN. 18 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.: Carnival rides and midway will be open to the public.

1 p.m.: MLK Parade through Historic Downtown Plant City.

Parade marshal will be Bettye Goodwine, a local retired Tulalian, (813) 422-4917 or email to machelle.eaptampa@ gmail.com.

Evening Book Discussion — meets from 7 to 8 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 21, at Bruton

teacher and AKA sorority member.

1 p.m.: Jre concert 4 p.m.: Gospel Extravaganza at Plant City MLK Recreation Center, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Plant City SUNDAY, JAN. 19 7:30 a.m.: Leadership Breakfast at Hillsborough Community College Plant City’s John R. Trinkle Center, 1206 N. Park Road, Plant City. Cost is $25. Midway will be open to the public.

MONDAY JAN. 20 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Freedom Walk at Sam Cooper Park, 900 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City.

This month’s book is “A Land Remembered” by Patrick Smith. (813) 757-9215.

Royal Hills HOA — meets from

THURSDAY, JAN. 23 Casey Stidham — performance takes place from 6 to 9 p.m.

Thursdays, at Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. (813) 7529100.

Diabetes Self Management Education — takes place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 23, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. Glenda Williams. For more information, call (813) 3078015, Ext. 7111.

FRIDAY, JAN. 24 “Beautiful Creatures” — screening takes place from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 24, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. (813) 757-9215.

ONGOING Babytime — takes place from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Thursdays, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City.

(813) 757-9215.

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governance by Michael Eng | Editor

SWEET DREAMS by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Commissioners approve revised Songbird to bring Historic Preservation ordinance Patsy Cline to town The ordinance now includes language that helps define time limits on renovation projects in Plant City’s three designated historic districts.

Following feedback from residents regarding Plant City’s historic preservation ordinance, city commissioners approved Jan. 13 changes that further define the duration of the ordinance’s certificate of appropriateness, the document required during a renovation project in the city’s three historic districts.

The ordinance now stipulates that a certificate of appropriateness is good for one year. However, once the homeowner obtains an also-required building permit, the certificate of appropriateness then would mirror the time limits associated with building permits. Time limits on building permits are extended for six months following every inspection.

Although the new language will help eliminate certificates of appropriateness that are issued but never followed by any construction, it won’t necessarily alleviate some residents’ concerns. Linda Miranda said a home across the street from her has been under construction for 18 months.

“When I look from my front porch, I have a lovely view of a port-o-let and a Dumpster full of trash,” she said. “I would think you might want to entertain the addition of some kind of end date.

This will go on forever, and it has been a worry to all of my neighbors and myself.”

City Manager Greg Horwedel said the building permit guidelines are mandated by the state.

“If there is a valid building permit and

IN OTHER NEWS • The city authorized the purchase of land from Walden Woods Village LTD. for the construction of turn lanes at State Road 39 and Alexander Street. The city contracted with the Florida Department of Transportation to purchase the stormwater pond servicing North Park Road. In lieu of an outright purchase of the pond, the city and FDOT agreed the city could provide a project utilizing the funds. The purchase price was $35,000.

• The City Commission recognized the Plant City Dolphins organization for its 2013 season, which included wins at the 2013 United Youth Football League National Championships, the 2013 Superbowl and the 2013 Turkey Bowl.

• City Manager Greg Horwedel said the United Youth Football League National Championships, held Dec. 7 to 13, at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex, brought

in more than $5 million in local economic impact.

• Fifteen crepe myrtle trees have been planted in the median of South Alexander Street near Timberlane Drive, as well as in the median of West Alexander Street near East Timberlane Drive and in front of Plant City High School. These trees replace the magnolias that were previously placed along Alexander Street and did not survive. The crepe myrtles were received from Tampa Electric Company as mitigation for trees removed during the installation of power lines along East Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.

• Two crosswalks serving Hillsborough Community College have been installed and the road reopened. Project costs so far are $90,000; additional landscaping work along the corridor will bring the estimated cost to about $100,000 of the original $200,000 budget.

there are inspections every six months, then the building permit would stay in effect,” he said. “Once they miss the six-month threshold, the building permit — at the discretion of the building official — could be withdrawn. And once that occurs, the certificate of appropriateness also would cease to be in effect. The applicant would have to go back to get a new certificate of appro-

priateness and building permit.

“We have to abide by what the state guidelines are for timelines for building permits,” Horwedel said. “We try to make sure there is a good-faith effort on the property owner’s part. We certainly don’t like to hear thing like (projects) dragging on for years.”

Contact Michael Eng at meng@plantcityobserver.com.

Barbara Van Eycken’s tribute performance will raise money for Plant City Entertainment.

Country music is a mainstay of the South. So, it’s not often that a native New Yorker falls in love with country music. But, Barbara Van Eycken has spent the past 12 years touring the Southeast with her Patsy Cline Tribute show.

Van Eycken’s next stop is Jan. 25, on the Plant City Entertainment stage.

“I love everything about her songs,” Van Eycken said. “I love that she was innovative enough to cross over into pop.”

Singing is in Van Eycken’s blood. Her grandmother and father both were songbirds.

Her father sang on the radio, and her grandmother sang in a nightclub she and her husband owned. When Van Eycken was 3, her grandmother sat her on top of the piano to serenade.

Growing up on Long Island, Van Eycken continued her love of the arts. In her teens, she appeared in numerous starring roles in community theater until she went to college.

After graduating, she eventually rose in the fashion industry ranks as vice president of administration for Christian Dior.

Retiring in Florida, Van Eycken rekindled her dream of the spotlight.

“I always thought that I’d wind up on stage as a performer,” Van Eycken said. “I’m the epitome of never giving up on your dreams.”

With her community theater background, Van Eycken offers to do a couple shows a season as a fundraiser for local theaters. This is her first time at the Plant City theater.

“I’m looking forward to bringing Patsy to Plant City,” Van Eycken said.

The first act will focus on Cline’s country hits. Van Eycken will don the famous whiteand-red tasseled getup, complete with a cowboy hat. The second act will feature pop hits.

“If I didn’t perform ‘Crazy,’ no one would come to the show,” Van Eycken said.

But one of her favorites is “Sweet Dreams.”

“What’s surprising is how many Patsy Cline fans there

PATSY CLINE TRIBUTE SHOW WHEN: 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 25; doors open at 6:30 p.m.

WHERE: Plant City Entertainment, 101 N. Thomas St. TICKETS: Adults $14; students/seniors $12; members $10, groups (10 or more) $10. Available at the door for each performance.

Group and advance tickets available at Hardee’s Fashions, 1501 N. Wheeler St. (813) 754-4929.

BENEFICIARY: Plant City Entertainment

ABOUT BARBARA VAN EYCKEN

A Long Island native, Barbara Van Eycken developed a big love for community theater in the Big Apple. As a teen, she traveled with a theater troupe and performed in many community theater productions, until she went to college.

When she retired and moved to Sun City Center, she rekindled her love of performing. For 12 years, she’s toured the Southeast with two of her tribute shows, Patsy Cline and Legends of Song.

still are,” Van Eycken said. “It’s 50 years after her death.”

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

business by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor Courtesy of Ed Verner

SMOOTH SURFACE Although it wasn’t slated to open until early this year, the extension of Alexander Street from Interstate 4 to State Road 39 opened to motorists just before Christmas.

“Our goal was to open it a little earlier than the scheduled completion date to allow residents and other commuters access to the extension, which should offer more con-

venience on their daily travels through the area,” said David Botello, Florida Department of Transportation public information specialist. “With some remaining shoulder work to be completed, road striping, hand-rail installation and other final touches, the

NEWSBRIEFS

The high school grades are released later than elementary and middle schools, because factors other than test scores — such as graduation rates — are factored into the grades.

For a complete list of high school grades, visit schoolgrades.fldoe.org.

+ Police identify accident victims The Plant City Police Department is mourning the loss of two of its extended family members as it continues to investigate a fatal traffic crash that occurred Jan. 13, at the intersection of James L. Redman Parkway and Johnson Road.

The driver and passenger who died in the crash have been identified as 83-year-old Alicia Cranie Pruet and 84-year-old Charles C. Pruet. Both were from Plant City. The Pruets were the parents of Plant City Police Capt. Susan Pruet.

According to investigators, Alicia Pruet was attempting to make a left turn from Johnson Road onto James L. Redman Parkway, when the 2009 Hyundai she was driving was struck on the driver side by a southbound semi tractor, driven by Morgan Davis, of Plant City.

Alicia Pruet died at the scene. Charles Pruet was airlifted to Tampa General Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

No charges have been filed in this case.

As word spread around the police department, members of the Plant City Police Department found themselves both shocked and saddened by the sudden loss of the Pruets. Capt.

Susan Pruet joined the Plant City Police Department in 2009 and has com-

entire project is currently slated for completion by the end of April or first part of May.” The nearby work on Knights Griffin Road, west of State Road 39, is complete, but the eastern portion won’t be finished until the end of January or first week of February.

+ Tire blowout causes fatal crash Alicia Cranie and Charles C. Pruet manded the department’s Investigative Services Division since that time.

“The Plant City Police Department is a strong family,” Chief Steven Singletary said. “Any time we lose an extended member to a tragic event such as this one, we are all affected. Our thoughts and prayers are with Captain Pruet and her family in this difficult time.”

+ Plant City-area high schools earn A’s Durant, Plant City and Strawberry Crest high schools all earned A grades for their performances on the 2013 Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test.

The Florida Department of Education released the letter grades late last month.

This year, more than half of Hillsborough County’s traditional high schools earned the top grade. No Hillsborough high school received a D or F grade.

Plant City has earned the top grade for three consecutive years; and Durant and Strawberry Crest for two.

A Longwood man died and two others were injured after a tire blowout caused their car to crash Jan. 10, on eastbound Interstate 4, near Plant City.

According to Florida Highway Patrol reports, at about 4:01 a.m., Marcus Anthony Grubb, 19, of St. Petersburg, was driving a 1999 Ford Explorer, when his right tire blew out at the 22 milepost.

Grubb lost control of the vehicle, which traveled into the center grass median. The vehicle overturned several times and came to final rest on the right side.

Passenger Miguel Javier Figueroa Marzan, 19, of Longwood, and a second passenger were ejected from the vehicle.

All three occupants were transported to Lakeland Regional Medical Center. Marzan died at the hospital. Grubb and the second passenger are in serious but stable condition.

+ Correction Walden Lake Community Association Director Bruce Rodwell’s name was misspelled in the story, “The Hole Truth,” in the Jan. 9 edition.

We regret the error.

Sunshine State Federal Savings plans conversion The Plant City bank hopes to file for its mutual-to-stock conversion in March.

The Sunshine State Federal Savings board made a decision to file for a mutual-tostock conversion in December.

The bank plans to file in midMarch.

The initiative requires regulatory approval and must go through the Office of the Comptroller of Currency before being finalized.

“If everything goes right, we could be consummating in July,” President Floyd Hall said.

After its approval, proxy documents outlining the specifics and prospectives will go out to account holders for approval.

“I can’t speak to the financial part yet, because there are moving pieces,” Hall said. “We will know more when we have those documents.”

If approved, account holders will get the first right of pur-

chase. Federal and state banking regulations require that the bank or savings association give depositors first priority to purchase the stock over all other interested investors, according to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. These priority subscription rights allow depositors to purchase up to a set amount of shares at the “subscription price,” the value the company assigns before the shares trade publicly.

Sunshine State has posted notifications at its branches.

So far, there haven’t been many inquiries about the conversion.

Hall expects more comments once more finalized materials have been mailed. The earliest that could be is May. “We want to raise capital to allow us to grow,” Hall said of the change. “In anticipation that the economy is going to get better, we want to support future efforts.”

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

ABOUT THE CONVERSION Many banks and insurance companies in the U.S. are organized as mutual companies. A mutual company is one that is owned — and sometimes governed — by its members — instead of being owned by public or private shareholders. In the case of a mutual savings bank or association, the members are the financial institution’s depositors.

Throughout the past two decades, a number of mutual companies have converted to a stock form of ownership — either to raise money, expand operations, enhance employee benefit options or some combination of these or other reasons. A host of federal and state banking laws govern “mutual-to-stock” conversions of banks and savings associations, including the rights — and responsibilities — of depositors.

SOURCE: U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission

ª 3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP MLK / PAGE 1 vette Club, Strawberry Crest High School’s entire JROTC Battalion and Color Guard and the CowBros — a group of local African-American cowboys.

After the parade, a few concerts will be held around town. The sports complex will host several R&B artists and deejays from 2 to 8 p.m., and gospel singers will perform at 4 p.m. at the center.

Headlining the main event is Jre Riley, known for his spot as a competitor on rapper Diddy and MTV’s “Making the Band.” Riley, now a solo artist, is gaining some momentum from his latest single, “Movin’ In.” The co-headliners are Shemida J, a Bahamian-born crooner, and Artist Franky. Deejays from the Plant City area will take over at 6 p.m. and play their own sets until 8 p.m.

The center also will host its Gospel Extravaganza at 4 p.m. This event, sponsored by Edith Langston and Gospel METS, will feature gospel singers from throughout Florida celebrating King’s legacy in the way they know best — through praise and song.

The festival continues Jan. 19, with the MLK Leadership Breakfast, at the HCC Plant City John R. Trinkle Center. Bay News 9’s Erica Riggins will be the mistress of ceremonies, and Dr. Gladys Wright, a retired educator from Gainesville, will be the guest speaker.

Following a military tribute by Durant High School’s JROTC Color Guard, three Community Awards will be presented: one for HCC English Instructor Dr. Maribeth L.

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COMMUNITY AWARDS

E.L. Bing Education Award (Dr. Maribeth L. Mobley). Recognizes an individual or organization whose actions support improvement in the areas of education involving at-risk youth and young adults in the Plant City area.

MLK Leadership Award (Stanley Glover). Recognizes an individual or organization that has supported or committed to the overall mission of the Improvement League and its programs.

Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Service Award (Sister Evalina Scott). Recognizes an individual or organization that contributes to the community through their community service, such as performing volunteer work or serving as a representative on a civic or government committee.

Mobley, one for Marshall Middle School Gentlemen’s Quest founder Stanley Glover, and one for Sister Evalina Scott, First Lady of St. Mary’s Missionary Baptist Church, in Bealsville.

The carnival midway also will be open from 2 to 8 p.m. Sunday.

The festival concludes Jan. 20, with the Freedom Walk, which will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Sam Cooper Park. There also will be free Zumba lessons, fitness information, and free tours and a movie shown at the Bing House Museum.

Contact Justin Kline at jkline@ plantcityobserver.com.

Abigail Lee Mullis’ sassy interview won her the Baroness title.

Giselle Gutierrez wowed the judges to take the Duchess title.

Deanna Alexis Rodriguez was runner-up for Queen.

Morgan Pierce

RED ROSE / PAGE 1 the hotel was transformed, oozing with Southern, “Gone with the Wind” charm from a bygone era.

The two-story hotel was built in 1973 and stretches across six buildings on 7.8 acres south of Interstate 4. The ballroom could sit up to 500 guests and was a popular venue from

parties, dances and fundraisers.

When the Madonias’ daughter, Laurie, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008, the family took a step back from the business to care for her.

They searched for a cure taking her everywhere — from Johns Hopkins Hospital, in Baltimore, to the Vatican.

She died two years ago. Her illness, coupled with bad harvest seasons

from freezes, a hurricane and a battle with cheap Mexican tomatoes, led to the family’s financial difficulties.

It was this fall from riches that caught the attention of Spiro. He first heard the story of the Red Rose on the news. It piqued his interest in investing in the forgotten hotel.

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com.

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COPS The following information was gathered from incident and arrest reports obtained from the Plant City Police Department.

DEC. 23

HOT WHEELS

500 block of Lindsey Anne Court. Burglary/Theft. The victim reported someone stole his 2007 Yamaha four-wheeler from his garage. It was described as a faded camouflage color with gun rack on handle bars, stock rack on back and a two-inch tow ball. The suspect(s) also stole a Troy-Bilt self-propelled lawn mower.

TRAILER TAKEN

400 block of Abigail Road.

Theft. The victim reported that someone stole her black, openstyle trailer with a red floor between 11 p.m. Dec. 22, and 6:20 a.m. Dec. 23.

HE SAID, SHE SAID

600 block of North Dort Street. Injunction Violation.

Officers responded to a disturbance called in by neighbors. The officer made contact with a male and female arguing in the female’s apartment. The female had an active injunction for protection against the male, which did not allow him to be within 500 feet of the female. The suspect advised the female told him she dropped the injunction and he had been staying with her for three days. However, the database showed the injunction was still valid until October 2015. The suspect was arrested and transported to Orient Road Jail.

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MANATEE

CORNER

DEC. 23

TIRE TROUBLE

4600 block of Airport Road. Grand Theft. A business representative reported that between Dec. 20 and Dec. 23, unknown suspect(s) stole two 22-and-one-half-inch rims and Yokohama 587 tires from under two separate semi-trailers that were parked about 20 feet north of Airport Road. The suspects cut the fence to the fenced compound on the south side of the business to gain entry.

FEW TOO MANY

Intersection of East Alsobrook and South Collins streets. DUI. An officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle that was driving without headlights on.

The officer detected the odor of alcoholic beverages on the driver, who was unable to successfully complete field sobriety exercises.

DRUG PROBLEM

2100 block of James L. Redman Parkway. Retail Theft.

Store loss-prevention officials advised the suspect concealed $691.08 worth of items in her oversized purse. She passed all points of sale without paying for the concealed items. The suspect was arrested and transported to Orient Road Jail.

Intersection of Leaning Palm Court and West County Road 574. Drug Arrest. An officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle that was driving without visible tail lights. The officer made contact with the driver, the sole occupant of the vehicle. The officer detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. A police K-9 conducted a search of the vehicle and found 1.6 grams of crack cocaine. The suspect was arrested and transported to Orient Road Jail.

DIGITAL DILEMMA

THAT’S MINE!

FIVE-FINGER DISCOUNT

1303 Tennessee Street. Burglary. The victim advised an unknown person entered the residence through an unlocked window and took a Toshiba laptop and an unknown brand tablet.

2100 block of West Baker Street. Stolen Vehicle. The victim advised she left the keys in her white Dodge van when she went in the store. When she came out of the store, she saw her vehicle driving away.

DEC. 24

MISSING MUSIC

4500 block of County Road 574. Residential Burglary. The victim reported that the family returned from out of town and discovered a sound system was stolen from their patio.

CRIME ON CHRISTMAS EVE

900 block of East Baker Street. Business Burglary.

Unknown person(s) entered the fenced compound and attempted to break in to several cars on the premises. It is unknown if anything was taken.

BAD BEHAVIOR

1700 block of Hughes Drive.

Battery. The victim advised she was driving to her home, when kids were playing in the roadway at Essex Street and McLeod Drive. The victim beeped her horn when they did not move. A Hispanic male juvenile, estimated by the victim to be about 15 years old, began to yell at the victim. The victim exited her vehicle and the juvenile slapped her on her forehead. The victim attempted to defend herself, but the juvenile picked her up and threw her down to the ground, before fleeing the scene on foot.

DEC. 27

WHEELS RETURNED

Intersection of Jerry Smith Road and West Griffin Road.

Stolen Vehicle Recovery. Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office located a white Dodge van that was stolen from the 2100 block of West Baker Street. The owner was contacted and responded to the scene and took custody of the vehicle.

DEC. 28

SCARY SITUATION

1000 block of North Johnson Street. Aggravated Assault/ Battery. The victim reported the suspect pushed him and threatened to kill him. The suspect then went to his car and pulled out a rifle and again threatened to kill everyone.

The suspect was arrested and transported to Orient Road Jail.

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DEAN’S RIDE by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

Bicyclists show strength, support

Joanna Cheshire, Frank Cheshire, Lindsay Cheshire and Frank Cheshire Jr.

Laura Spaulding and Lauren Koppel Left: Diane Taylor was ready to ride.

Gene and Scarlett Lenihan

Plant City Times & Observer Locally Owned The Plant City Times & Observer is published

by Plant City Media LLC, a joint-venture of the Tampa Bay Times and Plant City Observer LLC.

110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A Plant City, FL 33563 (813) 704-6850 www.PlantCityObserver.com &RS\ULJKW 3ODQW &LW\ 0HGLD //& $OO 5LJKWV 5HVHUYHG

Although last year’s event was a success, the annual Dean’s Ride: Strength and Honor bike ride grew stronger in 2014.

The Jan. 11 ride, which featured courses of 18, 38 and 62 miles, attracted more than 150 cyclists — up from last year’s total of 125.

The event raised more than $5,000 for the Plant City Family YMCA’s Livestrong program, which provides a wellness program for Plant Cityarea cancer survivors.

The rides started and ended at HCC Plant City Campus’ John R. Trinkle Center.

Right: Participants in the 62-mile ride prepared themselves for a long day.

Victoria Bishop, Steven Wolfe and Stephanie Wolfe

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CONTACT US The Plant City Times & Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. It provides free home delivery to several neighborhoods in Plant City.

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Neighborhood 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 U A R I E S | G A M E S | FA I T H | S P O RT S

PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

THURSDAY, JANUARY 16, 2014

+ Rotary Clubs of Plant City Dr. Dennis Digamon and his wife, Delores, will make a trip to the Philippines this month on a dental mission.

In the process, they also will help rebuild homes that were destroyed by a typhoon in November.

Both the Daybreak and Noon clubs have donated money to the cause, $4,000 in total.

The couple, along with a Rotary Club in the Philippines, plans to repair the roof on about 26 homes.

Each roof costs about $150, and the homes average 300 square feet in size.

+ Plant City Church of the Nazarene The Plant City Community Church of the Nazarene is planning a huge garage sale from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Jan. 25, at 2402 Mud Lake Road, Plant City.

The purpose of the sale is to raise money for the youth to particpate in the T.N.T. Youth Talent Contest April 9, at Trevecca Nazarene University, in Nashville. The young people who will participate finished first in the Competition on the Central Florida District in November, beating out more than 90 churches.

KATHLEEN ADKINS PARENTS: George and Marleen Adkins SCHOOL: Senior at Plant City High School; dual-enrolled at Hillsborough Community College ACTIVITIES: Member of Civinettes, National Honor Society, Senior Executive Council and the track team FUTURE: Plans to attend HCC and pursue a degree as a diagnostic technician

MACALEY BARROW PARENTS: Stacy and Connie Barrow SCHOOL: Senior at Durant High School ACTIVITIES: Member of the Student Government Association, National Honor Society, LEO Club, varsity cheerleader and the 2014 Cover Girl for Durant FUTURE: Plans to attend USF, major in biology and pursue a degree in dentistry

ASHLEY BISHOP PARENTS: Mark and Alicia Bishop SCHOOL: Senior at Plant City High School; dual-enrolled at HCC ACTIVITIES: National Honor Society, Senior Executive Council, president of Skills USA for Cosmetology FUTURE: Plans to attend Florida Gulf Coast University and double major in psychology and legal studies

MORGAN BOEHNING PARENTS: Geoffrey and Angel Boehning SCHOOL: Senior at Strawberry Crest High School ACTIVITIES: FFA, Veterinary Assistant Program, member of the Strawberry Crest Goat Team and placed first in showmanship at the 2013 Hillsborough County Fair FUTURE: Plans to attend UF and enroll in the veterinary science program

KRISTEN BOZEK PARENTS: Melissa Bozek SCHOOL: Graduate of Strawberry Crest High School ACTIVITIES: Member of the National Honor Society, Dean’s List, National FFA organization FUTURE: Attends Hillsborough Community College and plans enroll at a major university to become a pediatric dentist

CAROLINE BIRTHISEL PARENTS: Robert “Chip” and Mary “Mimi” Birthisel SCHOOL: Senior at Newsome High School ACTIVITIES: Editor-in-chief of the yearbook staff for two consecutive years, senior class council and varsity golf team FUTURE: Plans to attend a the University of Tampa and pursue a degree in the medical field

KALLEE COOK PARENTS: Kent and Cindy Cook SCHOOL: Graduate of Durant High School; sophomore at Hillsborough Community College ACTIVITIES: FFA, Florida and American Angus Association and a volunteer for American Cancer Society FUTURE: Plans to attend Florida Southern College to pursue education

LINDSEY ENGLISH PARENTS: Chrystal English SCHOOL: Senior at Plant City High School; dualenrolled at HCC ACTIVITIES: President of Plant City Senior FFA Chapter, ambassador of the Florida Strawberry Growers Association, Relay for Life, works at Johnson’s BBQ FUTURE: Plans to attend a four-year university to study law

HERE THEY ARE … by Michael Eng | Editor

MEET THE 2014

QUEEN CONTESTANTS Twenty young women will compete for the title of 2014 Florida Strawberry Festival queen at 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, at the Florida Strawberry Festival’s Grimes Family Agricultural Center, 2301 W. Oak Ave., Plant City.

Tickets, which go on sale Jan. 17, are $15 each and will be available at Hardee’s Fashions, 1501 N. Wheeler St.; Sunshine State Federal Savings and Loan, 102 W. Baker St.; and Regions Bank, 2302 Thonotosassa Road. Pending availability, tickets also will be sold at the door.

Reigning queen Kelsey Fry will crown the winner of this year’s pageant, which is organized by the Plant City Lions Club.

Photos of this year’s contestants are courtesy of Stephanie Humphrey, Stephanie Humphrey Photography.

+ Plant City Optimist Club The Plant City Optimist Club held its annual Youth Appreciation Ceremony, recognizing eight local high school students for their outstanding accomplishments. A banquet in their honor was held Nov. 18, at the Recreation & Parks Department administrative office conference room.

Plant City High School recipients included Jacob Dube, Jordan Genevie, Kellyanne Hurst, Madison Keene, Ericka Lott, James Orso and Dhara Patel.

+ Wild Horse Ministries Paul Daily will present his Wild Horse Ministries on Jan. 19 at the Hillsborough County Fair, on State Road 60. The ministry will start at 10:30 a.m. and end with horse demonstrations at 5 p.m. A barbecue lunch will be available at 12:30 p.m.

Daily uses horses to demonstrate faith, trust and obedience to God. He breaks a wild horse during the ministry. An auction will take place, selling the horse Daily breaks. Funds will benefit Cowboy Up Ministry and Front Line.

For more, visit wildhorseministries.com or cowboyupministry.com or call (813) 764-8064 or (863) 5593093.

AMBER HAM PARENTS: Audie and Deena Ham SCHOOL: Senior at Plant City High School; dualenrolled at Hillsborough Community College ACTIVITIES: Historian for Skills USA for Cosmetology and a member of the NHS FUTURE: Working to earn cosmetologist license while continuing work on a business degree

CAITLYN KENT PARENTS: Jay and Judith Kent SCHOOL: Senior at Florida Virtual School; dual-enrolled at HCC ACTIVITIES: Member of Future Business Leaders of America and the National Honor Society FUTURE: Plans to attend UCF, majoring in marketing and minoring in fashion design

MORGAN LEWIS PARENTS: John and Barbara Guerriero SCHOOL: Senior at Plant City High School ACTIVITIES: Captain of the debate team, co-president of the Drama Club, Civinettes, National Honor Society FUTURE: Plans to attend the University of West Florida to study environmental science and policy and pursue a career in environmental law

LILIANA MARTINEZ PARENTS: Jesus and Rosalinda Martinez SCHOOL: Graduate of Plant City High School; freshman at Hillsborough Community College ACTIVITIES: Works at Courtney Paat’s State Farm Agency and interns at Barbizon Modeling Schools FUTURE: Plans to transfer to the USF and earn a degree in elementary education

KELLEN MORRIS PARENTS: Melinda and Robert Morris III SCHOOL: Junior at Plant City High School; dual-enrolled at HCC ACTIVITIES: Member of the Civinettes, yearbook staff and the Plant City High School varsity flag football team FUTURE: Plans to attend UF, pursuing a law degree, specializing in juvenile adjudication

HEATHER ROSS PARENTS: James and Lisa Ross SCHOOL: Senior at Durant High School ACTIVITIES: Member of the National Honor Society, Senior Council, Students All Connected Community Service Club, Marine Science Club and FFA FUTURE: Plans to attend USF, majoring in marine biology

SHELBY ST. AMANT PARENTS: Whitney and Robert St. Amant Jr. SCHOOL: Honors graduate of Newsome High School; freshman at HCC ACTIVITIES: Volunteer at Shriner’s Children’s Hospital in the public relations department FUTURE: Plans to transfer to Florida State University to obtain a joint degree in sports management and law

MEGAN SHULMISTER PARENTS: David and Janeel Shulmister SCHOOL: Junior at Plant City High School ACTIVITIES: Junior class president, varsity cheerleader, member of “Best Buddies” service club, Civinettes FUTURE: Plans to attend UF and major in marketing and hopes to find a career that allows her to travel

KIERSTAN THOMAS PARENTS: Garth Thomas and Angela Creech SCHOOL: Junior at Plant City High School; dualenrolled at HCC ACTIVITIES: Member of the National Honor Society and Health Occupation Students of America, Plant City Dolphin volunteer FUTURE: Plans to obtain a master’s degree in nursing at USF

MARISSA THOMPSON PARENTS: Jack and Anissa Thompson SCHOOL: Senior at Durant High School ACTIVITIES: Durant High’s 2013 Homecoming Queen and Calendar Girl, member of the track team and the Criminal Justice Mock Trial Club FUTURE: Plans to attend Florida State University and then pursue a law degree

JESSI RAE VARNUM PARENTS: Scott and Katie Varnum SCHOOL: Senior at Durant High School ACTIVITIES: Outstanding Teen 2013, National Honor Society, vice president of Student Government, captain of the varsity cheerleading squad FUTURE: Plans to attend Florida Southern College and major in sports medicine

CASSIDY WRIGHT PARENTS: James and Deana Wright SCHOOL: Senior at Plant City High School; dualenrolled at HCC ACTIVITIES: Member of the Senior Executive Council, National Honor Society and Civinettes, cheerleader, track, flag football FUTURE: Plans to attend a four-year university and major in elementary education

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IT’S READ EVERYWHERE! MT. RUSHMORE: Elizabeth and Billy Pate and Larry and Diane Martin tool their favorite newspaper to Mt. Rushmore.

Snap a photo of you with the paper at your destination of choice and email it to Editor Michael Eng, meng@ plantcityobserver.com.

Make sure you include your full name and where the photo was taken.

top dogs by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Antioch Little League won Best Overall in the 2013 Plant City Christmas Parade.

2013 Christmas parade winners receive trophies The Plant City Christmas Parade committee presented the winners of the 2013 Christmas Parade with their trophies Jan. 6, in front of SASSI. Winners for the 2013 parade, as selected by a panel of judges, include: Overall Parade Winner: Antioch Little League Best Marching Band: Strawberry Crest High School Best School Entry: Durant Alpha Cougar Step Team Best Church Entry: Shiloh Baptist Church

Durant Alpha Cougar Step team won Best School Entry.

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LASTING LEGACY by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

BITTERSWEET

SUCCESS

For anyone who has taken the test, earning the GED is a huge accomplishment. But, none has worked harder than Demonde Ragins — and under such adversity — the death of his father.

The day that Demonde Ragins finally learned he passed his GED test was the best and worst day of his life.

For months, the Simmons Career Center student had been trying to pass. It was his last chance before the deadline at the end of 2013.

But in the midst of his joy, tragedy struck. His father, Willie Ragins, had gone missing from Lake Tarpon several days earlier. When he called his family to share the good news of his test score, they told him that his father was found. But not alive.

“He was dead,” Ragins says. “That threw me down. I couldn’t feel anything. Not the good moment or bad moment. I was numb.”

It was a dark day for the teenager.

But, he knew he had to push through.

He gathered his inner strength, something he had done many times before.

SOMETHING SPECIAL

Ragins was from a tough neighborhood. When he first came to Simmons Career Center, he had been kicked out of Plant City High School.

When Ret. 1st. Sgt. Jerry Betancourt met Ragins, he knew he carried a lot of baggage with him. His mother had to move to another rough area. A cousin, to whom he was close, died.

“He was not very trustworthy of people,” Betancourt says. “I guess he had been let down so many times.”

When Ragins smart-mouthed to him one day, Ragins was sent to the office. He came back and apologized.

That’s when the two established a mutual respect.

By Ragins’ second year in ROTC, he was commander for competitions and in charge of the cadets. Betancourt started encouraging Ragins to stick with ROTC. He told him that joining

the National Guard comes with education benefits.

“He’s going to be a successful person, because he wants to get out of the neighborhood,” Betancourt says.

“He wants to take care of his mom and siblings.”

Courtesy photo “I basically wanted something bet- From left: Andrea Jean, Andrea Thurston, Ret. 1st. Sgt. Gerardo Betancourt, Demonde Ragins, Laurel Simpson and ter for my life,” Ragins says. “After talk- Jama Hoffman ing with first sergeant, he inspired me Thurston took him to her family’s to do better.” selor Andrea Thurston spent hours ville. So, Jackson put him on a bus to So, when Ragins wanted to get his on the phone and computer, even on meet Thurston, who was in Jackson- house for dinner. Ragins made calls GED, the whole school rallied behind the weekends, to find testing sites. She ville visiting her family for the holi- to his family. His father still was misshim. sent Ragins to St. Petersburg and even days. She was to meet him at the bus ing.

On the bus home, he learned that “I always felt there was something looked at a site in Ft. Myers. stop and take him to the testing site. special about him,” ELP teacher AnWhen she exhausted local sites, she Rightfully so, Ragins was worried authorities had called off the search for the night. drea Jean says. “I saw the potential began to look further. She found one about his father and his family.

On Jan. 1, Thurston encouraged to get him to where he wanted to be. in Wauchula, but Ragins needed a ride.

If you don’t do it now, you’re going And, apparently, all of us saw the same Jackson stepped up once again. He al- to have regrets for the rest of your life, Ragins to look up his score online.

Thurston walked him through the thing.” ready had driven Ragins to other sites. Jackson told him. Get on the bus.

But, he was willing to make a farther “It was a painful ride,” Ragins says. login process.

Dead silence. trip to see the success of his student.

THE RALLY “But, I enjoyed it in a way. I got to see Did you find it?

Ragins had not traveled outside of a lot of things. Met some cool people Jean and teacher Hasani Jackson I think so. began to push him in his school work. Plant City often. Riding into the inte- on the bus. It was my first bus ride.”

More silence.

But, Ragins came to social studies rior of the state, he was tense but also Ragins remembers seeing the ma“Then I heard, ‘Oh my God, Oh my teacher Laurel Simpson on his own. captivated by the changing scenery. jestic courthouse in downtown JackWhen he didn’t pass, Jackson gave sonville. It was monumental to his God,’” Thurston remembers.

He didn’t have her as a teacher, but He had passed. he had heard she was the person who him some advice. small-town eyes. If he could pass his “It’s almost like a make-you-want“‘If a rock falls in your path right GED, one day he may have a chance could help.

“A lot of students don’t try to un- now, what are you going to do?’” Jack- to work in such a place. He was inter- to-cry moment,” Jackson says. “I told him, ‘Today marks the first day of derstand the material,” Simpson says. son says. “Turn around? No. You’re go- ested in studying criminal justice. your 365-page book.’”

“But, he listened. Here’s a kid who was ing to find a way around it.”

But, when Ragins called his famAgain Ragins and Jackson traveled THE LEGACY willing to do what it took. He came out on his own. He took my advice and ran farther, to Gainesville.

When Ragins arrived to the testing ily to tell him about his scores, he And again, Ragins didn’t pass. with it.” room, he was filled with prayer and learned of his father’s fate. He allowed himself time to think, to register.

This time, Ragins was sure he was hope.

Ragins had to run. He only had “At first, I thought I was being punmere months to pass when he started finished. Time was running out. But, “A lot of things were running testing in October. The deadline was at the last minute, Thurston found a through my mind,” Ragins says. “If I ished for something,” Ragins says. site in Jacksonville. the end of the year. didn’t pass, then what’s next? If I did, “But, now that I think about it, it’s At the same time, Ragins’ father had then what steps to I need to take to another strength or muscle to push But, once again, obstacles arose. myself in life. I know my dad wanted With each test he took, he just couldn’t gone missing. His father took a fish- get to where I want to be?” ing trip with friend Willie Hightower pass. He started to get disheartened.

After Ragins walked out of the test- me to do something with my life. I can continue the legacy he wanted to “He didn’t want to let everyone here on Lake Tarpon. When the pair didn’t ing room, Thurston saw a change. come home that night, family alerted down,” Ret. Lt. Col. Don Gunn says.

“He seemed like a huge weight had start.”

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurGoing above and beyond, the fac- the authorities. been lifted off his shoulders,” ThurRagins didn’t have a ride to Jackson- ston says. “He looked like, ‘I got this.’” gensen@plantcityobserver.com. ulty at Simmons had none of it. Coun-

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OBSERVEROBITUARIES Mary Alice Kendall Adams

Mary Alice Kendall Adams, 67, of Plant City, died Jan. 9, 2014, after 16 years of her battle with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

She was born in East Liverpool, Ohio, and was a registered nurse in Florida for 45 years. Mrs. Adams was passionate about nursing and making a difference in the lives of children for whom she provided care.

She is survived by her husband, Bill Adams; four children, Gregg Ganas Jr. (Melanie), Heather Patrick (Chuck), Teresa Adams and Kristi Dean (Robbie); and five grandchildren, Evan Ganas, Garrett Ganas, Kennedy Dean, Dillon Patrick and Haydon Patrick.

A Celebration of Life was held Jan. 13, at Hopewell Funeral Home, Plant City. Interment in Pelote Cemetery, Lithia.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to UF Hematology Oncology Education and Research Fund #F001057. Check made payable to UF Foundation Inc., P.O. Box 14425, Gainesville, FL. 32604.

Online condolences may be

made to the family at wecare. io.

Stephen Henderson

Stephen Lewis Henderson, 52, of Plant City, died Dec. 30, 2013, at the Life Path Hospice House, in Sun City Center.

Mr. Henderson was born July 26, 1961, in Brooksville.

He was a petty officer in the U.S. Navy from 1984 to 1988.

He was a journeyman electrician of IBEW Local 915, working for J.H. Ham Engineering Inc.. He was a member of ABATE of Florida and Sunshine Swampers. He attended First United Methodist Church.

Survivors include his parents, Lewis Jack Henderson and Dorothy McDaniel Tucker; brother, Eric Dell Henderson (Rose); wife, Cheryl Henderson; stepson, Josh Alderman; stepdaughter, Charity Alderman Gray; stepgranddaughters, Laela and Victoria Gray; uncles and aunts; and nieces and nephews.

A funeral service was held Jan. 4, at First United Methodist Church, Plant City.

Online condolences may be made to the family at wellsmemorial.com.

Rachel Lorene Nobles

Rachel Lorene Nobles, 75, of Plant City, died on Jan. 5, 2014.

Born Monday, Dec. 19, 1938, she was the daughter of the late Henry and Pauline Mooney Henderson. She was the wife of the late Ernest Nobles Sr. Mrs. Nobles had been the manager at the Presto Station deli. She enjoyed gambling, bingo and yard sales.

Survivors include a son, Ronnie (Victoria) Nobles, of Plant City; daughters, Sara Matthews and Barbara Gayle (Raymond) Swilley; brother, Jimmy W. Henderson; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Online condolences may be made to the family at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Joyce Carlton Payne

Joyce Claire Carlton Payne, a resident of Tallahassee and formerly of Plant City, died Jan. 6, 2013.

She was born Sept. 10, 1925, in Plant City, to James DeWitt Carlton and Maude Griffin Carlton.

Mrs. Payne graduated in 1947, from Florida State College for Women/Florida State University, with a degree in social work. Later that year, she married the love of her life, Robert Payne. Following his ordination as a Methodist minister, they moved to Bridgeport, Conn., where he served as a pastor while continuing graduate work at Union Theological Seminary in New York.

Mrs. Payne was an active partner in their shared ministry there and in churches in Connecticut, New York, New Jersey and First United Methodist Church, in Plant City.

Known for her gracious hospitality, Mrs. Payne spent many hours baking and cooking and entertaining friends and family. Her lovely alto voice was

part of many church choirs, the Plant City Community Choir and a soloist for numerous weddings. A highlight for her was singing in the Lakeland Choral Society and performing, at Carnegie Hall, under the direction of John Rutter.

A lifelong Methodist, Mrs. Payne was a woman of strong faith and character. She was active in United Methodist Women and held offices at the local and district levels. Prior to moving to Tallahassee, she was a member of First United Methodist Church, Plant City, and the Seekers Sunday School class.

She is survived by daughters, Gloria Colvin, of Tallahassee and Carol Brinkley, of Williamsburg, Va.; sons-in-law, Jesse Colvin, Kent Brinkley and Paul Meers; grandchildren, Emily Adkins (Melvin), Kara Colvin, Michael Meers and Matthew Meers; great-grandchildren, Ayden Fryar and Mason Adkins; brothers, Bruce Carlton (Annelle) and George Carlton (Marie); sisters-in-law, Patricia Swails and Ann Payne; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Mrs. Payne was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, the Rev. Robert Payne; daughter, Patricia (Patty) Meers; and brother, DeWitt Carlton.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Jan. 17, at Trinity United Methodist Church, in Tallahassee.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the music program at Trinity United Methodist Church, P. O. Box 1086, Tallahassee, FL. 32302; the Robert and Joyce Payne Scholarship, Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, 2121 Sheridan Road, Evanston, IL.; or the Florida United Methodist Children’s Home, 51 Children’s Way, Enterprise, FL. 32725.

James Devon “Bubba” Sheffield

James Devon “Bubba” Sheffield, 47, died Dec. 20, 2013.

He was a lifelong resident of Plant City.

Born on Jan. 24, 1966, to Roy and Betty (Blanton) Sheffield, he was a volunteer and then became captain of the Midway

Fire Department for the last 12 years.

He is survived by his parents, Roy and Betty Sheffield; wife, Paula Lemley; brother, Keith Sheffield (Tabatha Harper); aunt, Sandy Easters (Tony); two special nieces, Kandice Sheffield (Travis Horn) and Brittany Sanders (Luther); and many cousins and friends.

Funeral services were held Dec. 26, at Mt. Enon Primitive Baptist Church.

David “Ron” Sprouse

David “Ron” Sprouse, 58, of Plant City, died Jan. 10, 2014.

He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Kay; sons, Anthony (Donna) and Andy Joe (Jessica); grandchildren, Foxx and Lilia; and siblings, Bob (Sandy), Kay and Dino.

He was preceded in death by mother, Hazel; and brothers, Larry, Gary and Ernie.

A Celebration of Life was held Jan. 15, at Hopewell Funeral Home, Plant City. Interment in Hopewell Memorial Gardens, Plant City.

Online condolences may be made to the family at wecare. io.

Mary Alice Warden

Mary Alice Warden, 91, died Jan. 5, 2014, in Thonotosassa.

She was born March 2, 1922, in Arkansas, to James Pierce and Minnie Lou (Poole) Pierce.

A graveside service was held Jan. 9, at Oaklawn West.

Online condolences may be made to the family at wellsmemorial.com.

Frederick Lee Williams

Frederick Lee Williams, 69, of Lithia, died Jan. 11, 2014.

Mr. Williams served in the U.S. Navy and worked as a roofer for more than 30 years.

He enjoyed raising and showing pigeons. He was a loving husband, dad and papa.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Cathy; children, Ronald Williams (Jo), Elizabeth Williams, Sonya Williams, Amy Zeller (Richard), Lisa “Danielle” Frank (Steve), Sarah Williams and Paula Ebdrup (Ryan); siblings, Wayne Dixon

(Penny), Mittie Middlebrook, Diane Heiston (Ace), Jeanette Patterson and Donnie Stalls (Karen); grandchildren, Megan, Ian, Shelby, Lindsay, RJ, Austin, Marquis, Carly, Noah, Jacob, Lyric, Devyn and Hailey; great-grandchildren, Faith, Isaiah and Conner; nephew, Nathan Crowder (Deny); and many loving family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Ruth Price; brother, Howard Stalls; and uncle Willis and aunt Bertha Mae Stansbury.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16, at Hopewell Funeral Home, 6005 C.R. 39 S., Plant City. The family will receive friends beginning at 6 p.m.

Online condolences may be made to the family at wecare. io.

Paul Frederick Woods

Paul Frederick Woods, 95, of Plant City, died Jan. 10, 2014.

Born Dec. 12, 1918, in Worcester, Mass., he was the son of the late Eugene and Blanche Sullivan Woods. He was the husband of the late Paula Tershansy Woods.

He was employed by Hillsborough County Public Schools, where he was a principal.

Mr. Woods was a U.S. Army veteran, serving during World War II and Korea. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Hillsborough County Principal Association, and the Florida Education Association.

Survivors include a son, Paul D. (Barbara) Woods; daughters, Pamela (Dave) Sarich and Patricia (Bobby) Mondoux, 11 grandchildren, Shannon, Kellie, Kasey, Jacob, Alexandra, Nicholas, Bobby, Zachary, Tyler, Hailie and Kinslie; and his extended family of Emeritus at Oakbridge.

He was predeceased by brothers, Roger Kavanaugh and Eugene T. Woods.

A Funeral Mass will be at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16, at St. Clement Catholic Church, 1104 N. Alexander St., Plant City. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Online condolences may be made to the family at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Sports

YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | COMMUNITY | TENNIS

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Pedro Mendoza helped guide Raiders to its 4-1-2 district record. 12

PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

SIDELINES

THURSDAY, JANUARY 16, 2014

raider renovation by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

PCHS baseball refreshed, renewed

Although head coach Mike Fryrear and many of his players were around last season, 2014 represents a new beginning for the Plant City’s baseball team. Everything else — from the clay to the coaches — is new.

FOOTBALL

+ East falls short in All-American Bowl Although Montel McBride and his Semper Fi East teammates didn’t leave California with a win, they were happy to get some national exposure.

Fox Sports 1 broadcast the Semper Fidelis AllAmerican Bowl on Jan. 5, and the West team won, 31-24.

Speaking of McBride, national recruiting website Rivals.com has given the Raider lineman a four-star rating, making him the highest-rated football recruit in Plant City-area history.

Save for a few rough patches of grass near the bullpen, Plant City High School’s baseball field looks immaculate. The ryegrass is fresh, the clay is bright, and everything else looks more like a high school field than the makeshift diamond of “The Sandlot.”

It’s second-year coach Mike Fryrear’s labor of love and, for now, the most obvious feature of his overhauled baseball program.

“We want to give the kids something special,” he said.

When Athletic Director Traci Durrance hired Fryrear before the 201213 season, he was just happy to have

the job. After the Raiders made an appearance at regionals, Durrance gave Fryrear the freedom to rebuild the entire program however he wanted to — and he jumped on the chance right away.

FROM THE GROUND UP

Fans also will notice the Raiders’ new duds this season, which Fryrear designed. The old logo with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers-inspired flag and crossed swords, which some coaches began phasing out in 2013, will be retired by the baseball team in favor of the new, pointy Plant City logo.

The team is going for a slightly more modern look while keeping a few old-school touches — such as brandnew striped stirrups for the players to wear in certain games.

But, Fryrear gets the most animated when he starts talking about the improvements to the field and facilities. He’s got all the enthusiasm of a car guy who was just given an excuse to talk about his pet project, some older-model Chevy Camaro or Dodge Challenger that just came out of the paint garage and had a

SEE BASEBALL / PAGE 12

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

SOCCER by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

Baseball Hall of Fame voting raises questions

BASKETBALL

+ Youth play is under way The Plant City Optimist Youth Basketball Program has kicked off its 45th season of action.

With 39 teams registered, about 370 Plant City youths are playing hoops from now until the end of February.

There are six age groups: co-ed 8-9, boys 10-11, girls 10-11, boys 12-13, girls 12-14 and boys 14-16.

The games are held at three locations: the Plant City Family YMCA gym, the Marshall Middle School gymnasium and the Tomlin Middle School gymnasium.

The co-ed 8-9 group will play Saturdays, and the other age groups will play on weeknights.

For more information, visit plantcitygov.com or call League Director Dave Robbins at (813) 763-2730.

SOCCER

+ Plant City to host alumni night Plant City High School’s third annual Alumni Night now has a time and a date.

Raider alumni are asked to come out to Friday’s Senior Night home game against Riverview, scheduled for 7 p.m., Jan. 17, and support their alma mater in person.

According to boys coach Chris Black, who played for the Raiders’ first soccer team in 1981, about 40 former players attended last year’s event.

“We’re just trying to build on that,” Black says.

The Raiders are 4-3-3 in their last 10 games, while Riverview is on a six-game win streak — including a 5-2 win over Plant City in last week’s King High School Invitational.

Durant High School’s five seniors were honored at halftime.

SEASON OF SUCCESS Durant’s five seniors nearly got to end their final regular-season home game on a good note, but Plant City caught them in the end.

The Lady Raiders took this one, 2-1, early in the second half. After going goal-for-goal with the Lady Cougars in the first half, Plant City slipped one past goalkeeper Sam Wenrich with 30:10 to go. Durant had plenty of scoring opportunities, and held possession of the ball for quite a bit of the match, but couldn’t convert on any of its attempts.

Both teams ended their regular seasons with improvements over their 2012-13 campaigns, but Durant’s squad made the biggest turnaround: a 9-3-2 record this season, as opposed to last year’s 3-6-5 mark. Plant City ended the season 15-2 overall.

Sam Wenrich makes a save on Drew Knotts and the Plant City offense.

The Lady Cougars would not go down without a fight.

Right: Durant’s Sophie Robertson jostles for the ball with a Plant City defender.

Justin Kline

The Raiders will enjoy completed renovated digs this season.

Durant’s Alex Wenrich competes with Morgan Langston for a header.

If you tuned in to any sports network this week, you’ve probably heard something about the Baseball Hall of Fame’s voting process. If you tuned in to ESPN, then you probably witnessed a lot of hand-wringing.

Dan Le Batard’s decision to turn his ballot over to readers of Deadspin.com created a huge controversy in the journalism world, basically splitting sports scribes up into two factions: pro-Le Batard or proCooperstown. For the most part, the old guard took the side of the Baseball Writers Association of America, and they were often the ones who had the tallest soapboxes on which to stand.

Tony Kornheiser, speaking on “Pardon the Interruption,” called Le Batard’s move “egotism run amok,” and accused the “Highly Questionable” host of doing it just to draw attention JUSTIN KLINE to himself. Apparently, there’s something wrong with drawing attention to yourself in order to make a point to a large audience.

But it’s “egotism run amok” that screwed up the voting process in the first place. Le Batard turning his ballot over to the fans is not unprecedented by any means and, according to the BBWAA rulebook, perfectly legal. It appears they’re just angry, because he ripped them to shreds in his defense column, which he published on Deadspin. Given the annual antics of many voters, I’d say he had the right to say the things he said.

I mean, why didn’t anyone cry foul when MLB.com Dodgers beat writer Ken Gurnick made a statement by voting only for Jack Morris? With a ballot boasting names such as Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine and Frank Thomas, that move was “egotism run amok.”

Many of the voters have this strange sense of entitlement that comes with having a Hall of Fame vote, and Le Batard raised a point about this that made me stop and think for a minute.

“I don’t think I’m any more qualified to determine who is Hall of Fame-worthy than a fan who cares about and really knows baseball,” Le Batard said. “In other words, just because we went to journalism school and covered a few games, just because accepted outlets gave us their platform and power, I don’t think we should have the pulpit to ourselves in 2014 that way we did in 1936.”

SEE KLINE / PAGE 12

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BASEBALL / PAGE 11

2013 RECAP

new big-block engine installed.

“We held a golf tourney in the fall, raised $5,000,” Fryrear said. “That was big. Any money that we got from fundraisers, we put into the field.”

The field received a new wind screen and flagpole, and a series of teal and orange flags now line the outfield wall. The batter’s eye is new, as is the warning track, and there are now on-deck circles — marked with the Plant City logo — and three new bullpens for teams to use. “Plant City,” written in script, soon will be painted behind home plate, similar to the setup many Major League Baseball teams have.

“And, we also got new baselines,” Fryrear said. “We don’t have them chalked up yet but, when we do put them on the clay, man, they really pop.”

The dugouts, which were previously hospital-white, are now painted tan with some orange and teal striping, and there are wordmarks beneath the netted windows. The press box also got the same treatment. The locker rooms are also completely redone, although there are still a few finishing touches to be added on.

As for the coaching staff, only Byron Humphrey remains from last season’s squad. Fryrear’s big hire was lauded pitching coach Gary Cates, formerly with Brandon High School.

“I went to a coaches’ convention, a PCA conference, I met with four baseball coaches and that’s all they talked about: this gentleman coming over here,” Fryrear said. “They said, ‘Man, you guys are gonna be a powerhouse!’ I said that we still have to suit up and play.”

Hiring a hot prospect such as Cates certainly seems like a good move on Plant City’s part, as the pitching staff has big shoes to fill.

HEAD COACH: Mike Fryrear (new hire) RECORD: 13-13-1 (5-5 district) RESULTS: Advanced to District Championship, lost to Brandon, 9-1; Lost in Regional Quarterfinal to Lakeland-Jenkins, 3-2.

MVP: P Kevin Long (8-3 record, 0.80 ERA, 76 K; .378 BA, 12 SB) KEY LOSSES: Kevin Long, Nick Rodriguez, Sergio Garcia RETURNING NOTABLES: Sawyer Dawson, Connor Slagill, Trey Mathews, Miguel Martinez

LONG GONE

Although Fryrear is focused on this year’s group, he’s quick to point out the reason for much of the team’s success last season.

KLINE / PAGE 11 To me, this rings so true. I got into sports journalism, in part, because I truly love baseball, but my other duties have kept me from following the game as closely as I did in the past. I don’t always have time to catch a game, nor do I have the means to record anything on TV, so I depend largely on recaps and highlights to get any information

“I’ll tell you the truth: it was Kevin Long,” Fryrear said. “And, the kids buying into the system.”

There was no way Long could have carried a team so far all by himself, which is true of any pitcher in any level of play.

But, it can’t be denied that Long was the lynchpin of the Raiders. He didn’t strike out nearly as many batters as Tyler Danish did for the Durant Cougars, but Long’s 0.80 ERA and 8-3 record were nothing to balk at.

Now that he’s gone, junior Miguel Martinez has been tabbed as the team’s new ace.

Martinez, a middle reliever last season, had the second-lowest ERA on the team with a 1.35 over 31 innings. Center fielder Mikey Wells, who throws a knuckleball, is also going to see some time on the mound as the team’s closer. Other than that, it’s an open competition.

“We may even go with a new pitcher every inning,” Fryrear said.

To help the pitchers out, Fryrear is counting on junior catcher Trey Mathews, an excellent defensive backstop who can call an entire game himself.

Like Danish, Long was also excellent in the batter’s box, leading the team with 29 hits and sporting a .387 batting average.

The team will also miss the offensive presences of Nick Rodriguez and Sergio Garcia,

that I want. I won’t claim to know baseball better than the independent blogger that, as a labor of love, invests all his time and energy into following the game. I fail to see how writers such as Gurnick have a ballot, while Bill James, one of the smartest men in baseball history, does not.

So, here’s what I’m thinking: Why not use this idea for Plant City sports?

but this is clear right now: two-sport athlete Sawyer Dawson batted .409 in 13 games played, and .370 hitter Connor Slagill will be back for his junior season. Sophomore Ryan Boyd, a transfer from Durant, is also expected to make an immediate impact.

Tryouts and practices will take up the rest of the Raiders’ time this month, as they try to build upon their new identity.

But Fryrear’s not done with the program overhaul yet.

BUILDING PERCEPTION

One of the things that Fryrear would like to do, taking a cue from some of Florida’s more notable programs, is become more involved in tournament play.

So, with February comes a new tradition: a preseason classic, held here in Plant City.

“We want to get the best of the best teams out here,” Fryrear said.

From Feb. 7 to 8, the Raiders will play host to district rival Strawberry Crest, regional finalist Wiregrass Ranch, and Jacksonville-Trinity Christian.

The Raiders also will play in this year’s Saladino Baseball Tournament and, pending approval, the Florida-Georgia Showdown.

Getting the Plant City community involved in the games is another goal for the program, starting with first-pitch ceremonies.

“We want someone from the community to throw out the first pitch at every other game,” Fryrear said.

This could be anyone from a city commissioner to a prominent local name, but that may not be the extent of the Raiders’ outreach — one of their ideal candidates is Plant City native and former Major League pitcher Kenny Rogers, whose nephew, Cole Rogers, is back in the game after a one-year sabbatical.

So much has changed in so little time, and Fryrear and his team are just eager to suit up, play some baseball and put Plant City on the map.

“We live for this,” he said.

Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

After all, the Deadspin readers showed they took this just as seriously as Le Batard and turned in a perfectly good ballot. There’s nothing wrong with getting the fans involved, especially for the reason that some of you may pick up on things that I wasn’t able to go see in person.

I know it’s only January, but I’m already marking this on my calendar. At the end of 2014, I’ll pick my top three

teams and athletes, and let you all decide the outcome of the final two slots by popular vote. We’ll host a poll on our website a few weeks in advance and remind you all to go vote. I had the most difficult time deciding the fourthand fifth-place winners in 2013, so I’d love to know what the community’s thinking and hear any compelling reasons to vote a certain way.

I trust your judgment.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

PEDRO MENDOZA As a captain, Plant City High School’s sweeper was there for all of the highs and lows of the 2013-14 season. The junior defender played through injury when he had to, and helped guide the Raiders to a 4-1-2 district record — good for second place. For his hard work in this past week’s King Tournament, Mendoza was a worthy nomination for this week’s feature.

For you, what were some of the highlights of this season?

I was glad to be playing with my friends. There were many great moments, but it was great being a captain to everybody, and giving advice. Sometimes, I was getting advice, too.

What was your favorite game this season?

It’s this one with Riverview. Playing top teams like this really gets my blood going up.

Do you have any college plans?

Right now, I’m thinking about going into engineering or criminal justice.

I want to go to HCC for two years then go to the University of South Florida. We’ll see about playing soccer — I’m trying to get a scholarship to play somewhere.

What are some of your hobbies?

I’m in some clubs, but it’s all about soccer. I also play for Houston Dynamo, in Valrico. (Editor’s note: Houston Dynamo, which is based in Texas, owns Tampa Dynamo FC.) What’s your team, and who is your favorite athlete?

My team is Cruz Azul, which plays in Liga MX in Mexico. My favorite athlete is Rafael Márquez — I like watching him, and I also modeled my game after him. He’s also a sweeper.

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PLANT CITY

RAIN

(INCHES) Jan. 8

0.00

THURS.

TEMPERATURES

Jan. 9

0.00

FRI.

Thurs., Jan. 16 Fri., Jan. 17 Sat., Jan. 18 Sun., Jan. 19 Mon., Jan. 20 Tues., Jan. 21 Wed., Jan. 22

Jan. 10

0.00

SAT.

Jan. 11

0.09

SUN.

0.20

MON.

Jan. 13

0.01

TUES.

Jan. 14

0.07

JAN.

TO DATE

0.70 (2013: 0.21)

, 3&

WEATHER

WED.

Jan. 12

0,!.4ª#)49ª4)-%3ª ª/"3%26%2 4(523$!9 ª*!.5!29ª ª

HIGH 54 66 54 67 68 69 59

SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES Thurs., Jan. 16 Fri., Jan. 17 Sat., Jan. 18 Sun., Jan. 19 Mon., Jan. 20 Tues., Jan. 21 Wed., Jan. 22

SUNRISE 7:21 a.m.

7:21 a.m.

7:21 a.m.

7:21 a.m.

7:20 a.m.

7:20 a.m.

7:20 a.m.

SUNSET 5:55 p.m.

5:56 p.m.

5:57 p.m.

5:58 p.m.

5:58 p.m.

5:59 p.m.

6 p.m.

LOW 37 48 37 45 48 47 40

Erin Carter sent us this breathtaking photo, which she calls, “Good Morning.”

The Plant City Times & Observer, State Farm Insurance agent Tony Lee and The Corner Store have partnered to host the I Love Plant City Photo Contest. Winners will have their photo featured and receive a $10 gift certificate to The Corner Store!

To enter, email your photo, along with a caption, to Editor Michael Eng, meng@ plantcityobserver. com; subject line: I Love Plant City.

Winners can pick up their prize at The Corner Store.

MOON PHASES

Jan. 7

Jan. 15

STRAWBERRY PRICES CENTRAL FLORIDA

YEAR

PRODUCT LOW HIGH 8 1-pound containers $14.90 $20.90

TO DATE 0.70 (2013: 0.21)

Statistics courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture

Jan. 23

Jan. 1

WARM HEARTED

By Gary Cooper | Edited by Timothy E. Parker ACROSS 1 32-card game 5 Chalky mineral 9 Eats in the evening 13 Solemn promise 17 Currency abroad 18 Chocolate source 19 Syllables sung while skipping 21 ___ gin fizz 22 “Bonanza” brother 23 Bit of high jinks 24 “Snowy” bird 25 Do a takeoff on 26 Stare at, as a wreck 28 Like a fast driver 30 Emulated a parrot 31 Ski lift 33 Bouncers’ requests 34 Person saying “you’re it!”

37 Remove rinds 38 Serious kind of arrest 42 Emotional upheaval 43 Opera solo 44 Hasty escapes 45 Cowboy boot part 47 Perform penance 48 Is affected by 49 Skip over 50 Amateur’s opposite 51 Women’s counterparts 52 Minimal amount of rain 53 More cunning 55 Narrow groove 57 Reason to gather signatures 60 “Cheers!” alternative 61 Execute, in old France 62 “Cat got your tongue?” e.g.

63 Far from original 64 Cause of a rash reaction?

65 Yell

67 68 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 79 81 83 84 85 86 88 89 90 91 92 93 98 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115

Truth ___ (interrogation injection) Men’s headwear of the 17th and 18th centuries More skilled Bubbly mixer Word with hall or slicker “___ you serious?”

Ewe’s milieu Barber’s symbol Common military color Home of logs Small boys ET carriers Angler’s need Muddied the water Long drive over the wall Sheet-music symbol Berber language Sick Cubicle item Artist’s studio 007 film Tyrannical Flabbergasted Like freakish coincidences Art supporter?

Boxing victory Chimney passage Ancient city near Carthage Metric volume measure They were once together Flowerless decorative plant Exceeded 55 mph, e.g.

Veteran sailors Type of load

SUDOKU PACIFIC Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.

DOWN 1 Burn the surface of 2 African antelope 3 Kuwaiti or Omani 4 Taj Mahal, for one 5 “Full House” surname 6 Was part of the picture 7 Not of the clergy 8 Tom Collins or Rob Roy 9 Burial markers 10 Prodding person 11 Prefix with normal, legal or chute 12 Flexible Flyer, for one 13 Gradual absorption 14 Landed 15 Sao ___ and Principe 16 Sit up and take notice 18 It goes wall-to-wall in some homes 20 In the beginning 27 America’s bird 29 Strange 32 Weapons used by hired muscle 34 Private student 35 Spanish sherry 36 Colt or Magnum 37 Kind of school 38 Saharan “ship” 39 One spelling for a Mideast prince 40 Enough to be estimated or measured 41 Ancient Roman senate 42 Pack down tightly 43 At least two eras 44 Faithful 46 “The Long and Winding ___” 48 As of 52 Christian the fashion designer 54 Rich, dark soil 55 Highway rig 56 Spring melting period

© 2013 Universal Uclick

58 59 60 61 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 72

Run at the curb Big piece of cake Mumbai garment Hide, as a dog’s bone “Seinfeld” character Elaine Alien-seeking project Stop West Indian sorcery Wise Greek statesman Freshwater game fish “Peer Gynt” composer Ship or mail Health-food store staple

73 76 78 79 80 82 85 87 88 89 91 92

Grocery-store vehicle Regular hangout Most big and strong Raccoon cousin Balloon filler Wee bit Frilled strip Teeny toymaker Go over again, as a contract Copy machine supplies Clear before takeoff, perhaps One who weeps, in a saying

93 94 95 96 97 99 100 101 102 103

Fisherman’s handled hook Admire amorously Deep scowl Earns after taxes Get a handle on Pro ___ (proportionally) Throw out of kilter Metered vehicle Word with bug or misty Medication amount

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