Plant City Times &
Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
A PARTNERSHIP WITH
OPENING
SHOWSTOPPERS
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SPORTS
Duke’s Brewhouse Festival Fashion Show rocks sweet opens doors at designs. Walden Woods.
OUR TOWN
+ Queen to be crowned The annual Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Competition begins at 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, at the Grimes Family Agricultural Center, 2301 W. Oak Ave. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at the door. Fifteen girls will be competing for the crown and court designations to be the 2015 representatives of the Florida Strawberry Festival. The contestants are: Payton Raye Astin, Emily Benoit, Samantha Black, Morgan Boykin, Olivia Brosky, Zoee Renae Causey, Carly Knox, Abigail Lauren Miller, Kellen Alysse Morris, Deanna Rodriguez, Heather Marie Ross, Holly Anne Shuff, Samantha Mei Sun, Kayla Elizabeth Troupe and Vaviel Michele Verner.
FREE • FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2015
MMA Fighter kicks for new championship. PAGE 12
real estate nightmare by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor
Walden Lake residents file class action suit against golf course Residents who oppose the redevelopment of the Walden Lake Golf and Country Club are hoping to stop a potential rezoning by filing suit. Once a pristine setting that attracted hopeful homeowners looking for their dream property, the 18-hole Hills course at Walden Lake Golf & Country Club is now overrun with weeds, and its fairways are indistinguishable from the
residential lots that back up to it. The Hills was closed in May 2013 from a steady decline in membership and troubles from the economy, General Manager Steve Mercer said. After filing Chapter 11 bank-
ruptcy in 2011 and emerging a year later, Mercer planned a new route for the country club — to redevelop the Hills into an assisted-living facility, and single- and- multi-family units. But the vision has been
thwarted. Residents filed a class action lawsuit Jan. 25 to stop the entity that owns and operates the country club, Visions Golf Inc., from rezoning the golf and country club to be redeveloped. In the suit, the residents, under Walden Lake
SEE GOLF COURSE / PAGE 4
New Burger King soon opening A parking issue that had delayed progress was resolved this week. A new fast food restaurant is expected to open in Plant City, after the Board of Adjustment voted Tuesday, Jan. 27, to approve a variance to parking requirements in the city code. Bravotampa has filed preliminary plans for a Burger King on the west side of Tho-
BURGER KING / PAGE 4
FUNDRAISER
+ Call for auditions
by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
Catherine Sinclair
Ann and Barry Grahl retired to Plant City about 20 years ago.
POWER COUPLE
Barry and Ann Grahl met while serving in the Navy in the 1950s, and love soon followed. At first, the United States Navy was about the only thing Barry and Ann Grahl had in common. Barry was enlisted. Ann was an officer. They weren’t suppose to fraternize with each other. Barry was a Christian. Ann was a non-believer. And it was a Bible study class that ultimately united them. Maybe it was a twist of fate that brought them
together. Or maybe it was chance. But now, retired and living in Plant City, the couple can look back on their lifetime of thrilling memories and agree their meeting was an adventure in itself. After all, that’s why Barry enlisted in the Navy to begin with.
HIS WORLD
“It started when I was a young boy,” Barry said. “In
front of the post office was a big sign that said, ‘Join the Navy and see the world.’ I said, ‘That’s for me.’” In 1951, at the height of the Korean War, Barry’s draft number was called. But his dream for that adventure was jeopardized. He failed the color blindness test. “I looked at every page in the book, and I never found a number,” Barry said.
The test administrator had never met anyone that colorblind. But he sent Barry with some of his friends to Chicago, for another round of tests. When Barry realized he had to take the same color blindness test again, he started laughing. His goals of traveling in the Navy would never be reached, he thought. The test administrator seemed offended by the laughter and immediately sent Barry on his way — to the next test booth. Barry had gotten past
HOMETOWN HEROES 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.
Diane Ritchart
INDEX Calendar.......................2
Student hosts fundraiser for organ donor Brianna Massey is organizing a car show as a benefit for the woman who has agreed to donate a kidney to her. Though a surprising diagnosis changed Brianna Massey’s world two years ago, a generous family friend has agreed to make a sacrifice that will enable Massey to transition
FUNDRAISER / PAGE 4
SEE HEROES / PAGE 4
This week’s winner is See his photo on PAGE 15.
In the suit, the residents said the original intent of the premiere neighborhood was for it to be modeled around the
by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
Plant City Community Chorale will be performing a winter concert, “Songs For A New Day.” The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, at First Presbyterian Church, 404 W. Reynolds St.
, 3&
THE ORIGINAL INTENT
DEVELOPMENT
HOMETOWN HERO by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
+ PCCC to perform concert
Plant City Entertainment is holding auditions for “Tavern Tales 2” from 7 to 10 p.m. Monday, Feb. 9, at the theater, 101 N. Thomas St. There are 16 available parts, 11 roles for women and five roles for men. For women, you must be 16 or older and for men 18 or older. Be prepared to sing part of a character-driven song, Celtic style preferred. Also reading from script will be required. Costumes are not required for auditions. The musical comedy follows the adventure of a medieval innkeeper and his barmaid as they entertain the princess and her entourage during a surprise visit and keep a rowdy band of pirates from kidnapping her. Performances will be in May. For more information contact Director Derek Abbott at (813) 600-9736.
Community Preservation Inc., are seeking to maintain their rights as homeowners and keep Walden Lake a 36-hole golfing community.
Catherine Sinclair
Brianna Massey and Brenda Rayborn will be wearing and selling their custom t-shirts at the fundraiser tomorrow.
Vol. 2, No. 28 | One section Crossword...................15
Obituaries...................11
Sports.........................12
Weather ......................15
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COMMUNITYCALENDAR FRIDAY, JAN. 30 Acoustic Happy Hour — live music takes place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818. Christian Contemporary Music — takes place from 6:33 to 8:13 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. (813) 752-1220. Knife Show — takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 1, at the Lakeland Center, 701 West Lime Street, Lakeland. There will be an auction Saturday night at 7 p.m. Admission is $5 for a one-day pass. Custom handmade knives, raffles and free parking. Hosted by the Gator Cutlery Club. (813) 754-3908. Live Music — takes place from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday, Jan. 30, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818. Uncork your Friday! — live music takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. (813) 7529100.
SATURDAY, JAN. 31 Dale and AB — live music takes
place from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 31, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818. Heart Health Screening — takes place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, at the main Lobby of South Florida Baptist Hospital, 301 N. Alexander St. Connect to good heart health with a heart-healthy screening that includes blood pressure, blood sugar/glucose, body mass index and cholesterol. There also will be a nurse and nutrition specialist on hand to answer your questions. The event is free, but registration is required. (813) 644-6720. Mark Barrios Band Live! — takes place from 6:30 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. (813) 7529100. Paul Daily Horse Whisperer — takes place beginning at 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, at Lebanon Baptist Church, 110 N. Forbes Road. Paul will give sermon while breaking a horse, demonstrating the relationship people have with God and the devil. (813) 752-2006. Walk with a Doc — takes place beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, at the Walden Lake entrance Oracle Home Health Office, 1602 W. Timberlane
Drive. The guest speaker will be Barbara Roberts with the Florida Department of Heath Fitness & Nutrition in the Aging. The event is free. WalkWithADoc.org. Young Adult Nite — takes place from 7:33 to 10:33 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. Enjoy live music from local artists. (813) 752-1220.
SUNDAY, FEB. 1 Beginning English for Speakers of Other Languages — takes place from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 1, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McClendon Street. The new class is offered by the Hillsborough Literacy Council and is limited to 10 adult students. The class is free, but each student must purchase his or her workbook, which is $5.00. Students must register through the Hillsborough Literacy Council by calling (813) 2733650, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
TUESDAY, FEB. 3 GriefShare — takes place beginning at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 3, at Hope Lutheran Baptist Church, 2001 N. Park Road. Following the death of a loved one you may have found that there are not many people who understand the deep hurt you
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.
BEST BET We Relay <3 You — team party begins at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 2, at Plant City’s First Baptist Church, 503 N. Palmer St. Relay for Life will be honoring teams, survivors and caregivers. facebook.com/ plantcityrelay. may feel. Those feelings of hurt and emptiness seem to make it harder and harder for you to face each new day. Each GriefShare session includes a video seminar and group discussion. (813) 752-4622. Plant City Women’s Connection — takes place beginning at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 3, at the Plant City Elks Lodge, 1501 N. Alexander St. Penny Zee will be the speaker and ROAK Boutique will be featured. Reservations are requird, (813) 752-5537. $15. The Recovery for Life — takes place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 3, at the Lorena Jaeb Rainbow House, 504 N. Palm Drive. It is a 12-step Bible-based program to help free individuals from all forms of addiction. Debbie Ray, (813) 763-1562.
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 4 Fresh Market — takes place from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday,
Feb. 4, at McCall Park, in Historic Downtown. Open Mic Night — takes place beginning at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818. The Wine Down — takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. The special is $4 glasses of wine from any open bottle. (813) 752-9100.
THURSDAY, FEB. 5 Flower Show — takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, at the Walden Lake Country Club, 2001 Clubhouse Drive. The Flower Show is hosted by the Plant City Garden Club. The theme is, “Plant City Agriculture Rides the Rails.” The show is open to the public and is free. For more information call (813) 752-5874.
Smoking Cessation — takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, at the Cancer Resource Center, 1708 Palmetto Ave. The two-hour class provides tools to help participants quit using tobacco and includes four free weeks of patches, gum or lozenges. The class is free, but registration is required. (813) 644-6720.
SATURDAY, FEB. 7 Celebrity Chef Dinner — takes place beginning at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at the John R. Trinkle Center, 1206 N. Park Road. Cocktails and a social hour will kickoff the evening followed by dinner prepared by Fabio Viviani from “Top Chef” and “Top Chef All Stars.” The event will benefit the United Food Bank of Plant City. Tickets are $100. For more information call (813) 764-0625. The Honey Hole Market — takes place Saturday, Feb. 7, at 2201 Thonotosassa Road. The market offers antique picking and more. Mia, (813) 484-1127. Strawberry Distance Challenge — takes place beginning at 7:20 a.m. in Walden Lake, 3035 Griffin Boulevard. The race supports The Youth Alliance, a non profit organization providing antibully, choices presentations all over the country. strawberrydistancechallenge.com/.
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governance by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
Building projects introduced to commission IN OTHER NEWS • There will be a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Midtown Village Green at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 6. • The first of two public hearings regarding the prohibition of bars and liquor stores in the Midtown District occurred Monday night. The second public hearing will be at the commission meeting Monday, Feb. 9. • Cody Talbert Distribution, a leading wholesale RV parts and accessory supplier for dealers, service centers and campgrounds, has announced that it will be moving its headquarters from Kissimmee to Plant City. City Manager Mike Herr has promoted this type of economic development since he started his position September 2014.
The projects consist of a commercial and industrial development on County Line Road and a new governmental building downtown. City commissioners were presented with plans for two building projects at different locations during the Plant City Commission meeting Monday, Jan. 26. The locations are considered “hot spots” in Plant City. The projects consist of a commercial and industrial development on County Line Road and a new governmental building downtown. Jeff Lucas from Central Florida Development briefed the commission on the County Line Commerce Center, a new development that will be located at U.S. Highway 92 and County Line Road. There will be six buildings at the commerce center, the two largest of which will each be about 97,000 square feet. Central Florida Development owns a number of sites at the location, and Lucas said they will likely be used for res-
LEADERSHIP by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
Michael Cameron instated as new chamber chairman
100,000-square-foot speculative building in the same region, but north of Interstate 4. The company has filed for permits and expects to start turning dirt this week. The investment for this project will be between $20 million and $25 million. “We wouldn’t do that in a place that, frankly, wasn’t good to do business in,” Lucas said. Lucas expects the speculative building to be complete in June, and it will hold one to six customers. After the building is leased or mostly leased, work will begin on the commerce center. Commissioners also showed support for a new building that will be located along Mahoney Street, just across the street from the courthouse: the Hillsborough County Regional Service Center.
Catherine Sinclair
Mayor Rick Lott recognized the Plant City High School Unified Raiders Basketball Team with a proclamation at the commission meeting last Monday, for winning the gold medal at the USA Special Olympics. taurants, gas stations, offices and warehouse distribution. “We think the sites are perfect for those types of uses,
and we think the location is as well,” Lucas said. Central Florida Development also has plans for a
FOOD AND FAME
a novel idea by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
‘Top Chef’ to cook at food bank fundraiser
Cameron, the 2014 Citizen of the Year, will serve as chairman until February 2016. Though Michael Cameron was Plant City’s Citizen of the Year last year, his reputation as a prominent figure in the community will continue in 2015 as he serves as chairman of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce. Cameron was instated at the annual Chairman’s Banquet Thursday, Jan. 29. “My whole attitude is, if I’m going to be involved with something, it might as well be in a leadership position,” Cameron said. As an Edward Jones financial adviser at Cameron Financial Management, Cameron has been a member of the chamber of commerce for 14 years. He has chaired or served on many of the chamber’s committees, but Pig Jam was one of his favorites. The chamber has presented numerous awards to Cameron over the years, including Growing Business of the Year (2008) and Ambassador Team of the Year (2010, 2012 and 2014). He also received the Good Egg award in 2003. “The relationships I’ve built through the chamber have given me a medium to grow my business,” Cameron said. During his one-year term as chairman, Cameron hopes to build relationships among the members of the chamber. He also hopes to strengthen the chamber’s communications, both internally and externally, “so that the rest of the world can find out how wonderful Plant City is.” “I want us to grow so that we’re a destination for other people, but maintain our small town feel,” Cameron said. “I would like to see us have a vibrant downtown and a vibrant Midtown.”
This year’s guest for the Celebrity Chef Dinner will be ‘Top Chef’ Fan Favorite Fabio Viviani.
CAMERON FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
Michael Cameron began his finance career with Edward Jones in 2001. His office is located in Historic Downtown. He offers services related to investments, financial planning, insurance and tax planning.
Cameron is a fifth-generation Plant City resident who has continually demonstrated his dedication to the community. In addition to the chamber, he currently is a leader within the Plant City Lions Club and First United Methodist Church of Plant City. In the past, he has served as president of Friends of the Bruton Memorial Library, Plant City Toastmasters and Plant City NPI. “This is my hometown, these are my people. This is what I know and love,” Cameron said. “I love all aspects of it. ... It’s kind of neat to be in the vacation mecca of the world, and still have a small town feel.” Cameron has a background in agriculture, but because his father was an educator, he approaches financial management from an educational angle. He tries to explain investments in a way that all of his clients can understand. “I keep things simple,” Cameron said. “I like explaining. I do very well at taking extremely difficult concepts and breaking them down and making them easy.” Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver.com.
Catherine Sinclair
In his office, Michael Cameron proudly displays a print of a mural by local artist John Briggs. Cameron helped paint a section of the mural, and his father is depicted in it as one of the townspeople.
This two-story building will house the clerk of circuit court, health department, property appraiser, sheriff, social services and other county-level offices. It is currently in the conceptual design stages, and project manager Bill Hand said it would blend well with the surrounding downtown architecture. The building will cost $8 million to complete, which will come from CIT funds and state grants. City Commissioner Mike Sparkman said he would like to have permitting services at this service center. He said he often hears complaints from Plant City residents about having to drive to downtown Tampa to get a permit. Hand said the building might be able to house permitting services at some point in the future, but probably not at the onset. Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver.com.
Kate O’Neill recently published her first novel, “Her Spirit Moon.”
Catherine Sinclair
Local author publishes historical fiction novel ‘Her Spirit Moon,’ by Kate O’Neill, takes place in Chicago in the 1830s. Kate O’Neill, a Plant City author originally from Chicago, has recently published an adult fiction novel that explores the history of her hometown and poses questions about what happens when two cultures collide. O’Neill did extensive research before writing the book, “Her Spirit Moon,” which is set in Chicago in the 1830s. “There wasn’t a whole lot going on back then, so it’s a frontier town,” O’Neill said. But, she created a dynamic plot and characters who evoke a host of emotions. The novel’s protagonist is Cora Bell, a 17-year-old girl whose mother is Native American and whose father is a French trapper. “During that time, you had a lot of the more eastern native people being pushed farther and farther west,” O’Neill said. There were conflicts between tribes that had never interacted before. Cora Bell is torn between the two cultures she is rooted in, but also must face these inter-tribe conflicts. Though O’Neill has tried to write several novels, this is the first that has been completed and published. She began writing it in 2008. She sought feedback from a writers’ group she meets with in Tampa. She took their suggestions to change the opening, which she thought was a big improvement. “Originally, it didn’t open as it does now,” O’Neill said. “It was much more bookish. It didn’t have a good hook.”
WHERE TO FIND IT “Her Spirit Moon,” by Kate O’Neill, is available on Amazon Books. It will also be available at Barnes and Noble and most other online bookstores, or directly from the publisher at thistlewoodpublishing. com. The novel will also be available for Kindle.
O’Neill continued editing and revising, and eventually got the book down from 611 to 300 pages. “None of it was easy, but it was very fun,” she said. At the library, O’Neill once found a book that contained a list of small publishers. She submitted “Her Spirit Moon” to a number of them. Gail Westover, one of the owners of Thistlewood Publishing, responded positively to O’Neill’s request. “I was captivated by the story the moment I started to read it,” Westover said. “Kate O’Neill is a gifted writer. We at Thistlewood Publishing are very proud of this novel.” Tika Newman founded Thistlewood Publishing in 2008 and has published a limited number of novels and
children’s books. “We deal with only a few books at a time,” Westover said. “When a book is ready, we release it. We do not rush to put out an inferior quality story.” “Her Spirit Moon” was released to the printer Dec. 24, and is still in the process of being distributed to major bookstores and other sellers. The artwork on the book’s cover was created by O’Neill’s husband, Juan Sanchez Ramos. He is professionally a neurologist, but has a background in art. O’Neill said it took a number of trials to create a piece that she, her husband and the publisher agreed on, but she is satisfied with the final product. The portrait depicts Cora Bell, and the overlaid animal is her pet, a wolf-dog crossbreed. O’Neill said there will be no sequel for “Her Spirit Moon,” but she intends to work toward publishing more novels in the future. “My best days, I spend writing and trying to get it right,” O’Neill said. She is already working on a novel whose setting jumps between St. Paul, Minnesota, in the 1870s, and modern-day Florida. She has written the first six chapters so far. “Her Spirit Moon” will be available from a number of distributors, but the only place to get a copy autographed by O’Neill is from the publisher, at ThistlewoodPublishing. com. Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.
The United Food Bank of Plant City will host its seventh annual Celebrity Chef Dinner, one of its major fundraisers, Saturday, Feb. 7, at Hillsborough Community College. Guests will enjoy cocktails and a delicious meal, but the star of the show this year will be Fabio Viviani, who grew up in Florence, Italy — one of the world’s known hot spots for culinary masters. “The most fun part of the event will be the live entertainment, where Viviani will interact with the audience through a live cooking demonstration,” Christine Miller, director of the food bank, said. Viviani is best known for his appearances on the reality TV show “Top Chef,” where he was named a “Fan Favorite.” He has opened restaurants in the United States and launched his own wine collection. He is a frequent headliner at food festivals around the world. Guests at the food bank fundraiser can pick up some of Viviani’s best cooking tips during his demonstration, where he will prepare sea bass. After feasting on a threecourse dinner of recipes from Viviani’s award-winning cookbook, “Fabio’s Italian Kitchen,” guests will have the opportunity to bid on items in a silent auction, such as a dinner for four at Viviani’s restaurant, Siena Tavern, in Miami Beach, autographed copies of his cookbooks, and a set of his new signature cookware. This year, the food bank’s fundraising goal is $70,000. Tickets to Celebrity Chef are $100 per person and can be purchased from the food bank, by calling (813) 7640625.
Courtesy photo
Fabio Viviani, an internationally acclaimed chef, is coming to Plant City.
IF YOU GO Date: Saturday, Feb. 7 Time: Cocktails at 7 p.m., dinner at 7:30 p.m. Location: HCC Trinkle Center Tickets: $100, (813) 7640625
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GOLF COURSE / PAGE 1 Walden Lake Golf & Country Club — and that it was to stay that way. “Everything on what was planned for Walden Lake was the intent that the courses were suppose to be there,” Harley Herman, the attorney representing Walden Lake Community Preservation, said. “It was clearly the intent of the developers.” The suit references a Restrictions and Easement Agreement that was signed in 1993 when Walden Lake Inc. and its affiliate entity, Sun City Center Corp., sold the properties within Walden Lake that comprised the two 18-hole golf courses to Fairways Group LLC. “To preserve the common plan and general building scheme of Walden Lake was so critical to the developer, Walden Lake Inc. … (the) Restrictions and Easement Agreement (required) these properties to be ‘utilized solely and exclusively as a golf course, golf club and uses ancillary thereto only,’” according to the suit. “All portions of the Golf and Country Club shall continue to be operated and open for use by members during the term of the restriction … Fairways (or successors) shall not attempt to initiate any change in the existing community unit zoning district pertaining to the Golf and Country Club pursuant to the Plant City zoning regulations,” according to the portions of the agreement quoted in the suit. The restrictions are the
FUNDRAISER / PAGE 1 back to normalcy in just a few months. After a blood test when she was in high school, Massey, now 20, was told by doctors her kidneys had been destroyed by an uncommon strain of influenza. They were dysfunctional. Since then, Massey has survived through peritoneal dialysis, which she is able to do at home. Fluid consisting of sodium, chloride, lactate or bicarbonate, and glucose is introduced into her body through a permanent tube in the abdomen and flushed out either every night while the patient sleeps or throughout the day. “I really haven’t let it get me down or anything,” Massey
HEROES / PAGE 1 his biggest obstacle and was bound for bootcamp by the first week of January 1952.
HER WORLD
While Barry was serving in Korea, Japan and China, a young woman he had never met had just graduated from college and was starting a career as a schoolteacher in North Carolina. She had no idea that she would become Mrs. Ann Grahl in just a few short years. A friend of Ann’s sister had recently joined the Navy. “She had been in it and enjoyed it so much,” Ann said. “She talked me into joining the Navy.” Ann entered as an officer because she had graduated from college, which was the only major requirement at the time.
BURGER KING / PAGE 1 notosassa Road at Goldfinch Drive. The building will be about 3,100 square feet, and developers believe it will need just 34 parking spaces. But because of an August 2014 amendment to the city code, the new Burger King would
amount of time that the golf course should be maintained: for a period of 25 years from the date of the agreement, or 15 years after Walden Lake Inc., Fairways or its successors stop selling lots or property located within Walden Lake, whichever comes first. Hampton Place was platted in 2001, putting the earliest development could even begin in 2017.
THE TOLL
Herman is teaming up with Texas attorneys Matthew Kornhauser and Dylan Russell of the law firm Hoover Slovacheck. They have worked on three similar cases in Texas involving golf course communities. Kornhauser toured the golf course and was surprised at its mismanagement. “The look on his face when he saw how badly the course had been destroyed — he was shocked and appalled at what happened,” Herman said. “We would not have filed the case if we didn’t think we had good legal principles to go on.” The closed golf course decreases property values, but getting rid of it all together would be detrimental to some homes bordering the course. Herman said some of the residents could lose as much as $50,000 in depreciation. “Regrettably for people who spent a half million dollars or more to get their dream home … there’s patches of dead grass, broken bridges,” Herman said. “Weeds, snakes, rodents — it’s supposed to be a golf course. This is one of those things that should never have happened, and we
hope to reverse it.” Once Mercer responds to the suit, an injunction hearing to stop Visions Golf from rezoning will be scheduled in about four months. The injunction hearing would take place in Plant City. “We can stop things in the interim and at least give homeowners some relief,” Herman said. Mercer’s attorney, Ron Weaver, at Stearns Weaver Miller Weissler Alhadeff & Sitterson, did not wish comment this week. They received the suit Jan. 27 and were served Jan. 26.
A BRIEF HISTORY
Walden Lake’s two golf courses date back to the 1970s, when original developer Walden Lake Inc. constructed the first 18 holes. The first nine holes of the second course were built in the 1980s, followed by the final nine holes in the 1990s. Visions Golf purchased the course from Fairways Group in 2006. In every year since Visions Golf has operated Walden Lake Golf & Country Club, it has lost money. Mercer said he would need about 400 golf memberships to run a profitable 18-hole operation, or 700 to operate all 36 holes. In 2013, he told the Plant City Times & Observer there were only about 100 memberships. “We understand their expectations were that when they bought the house on the golf course, it would always be there,” Mercer wrote in a letter to the editor. “But, we also had expectations that when we bought the golf course, the
residents on the golf courses would be members. Unfortunately, in the end, we were both disappointed.” After emerging from bankruptcy in 2012, Visions Golf had plans to develop or sell the country club. In April 2014, it revealed Bridgepoint Capital as a potential buyer during the Walden Lake Community Association’s Annual Meeting. Two Bridgepoint Capital principals — developer Curtis Crenshaw and golf pro Jimmy Wright — spoke at the meeting. The day before Bridgepoint Capital’s introduction, Visions Golf submitted to the city a revised rezoning map. The revision includes a decrease in the number of residential units — from 868 to 627 — throughout all four parcel units included in the project. The revision also capped the assisted-living facility at 120 units; multifamily at 320 units (on two different parcels); and singlefamily units at 187 lots. Changes to the golf portion of the property would include a new clubhouse, an 18-hole championship golf course, nine-hole executive-style course and a couple of holes reserved for a new golf academy. WLCA Director Bob Hunter iterated the rezoning application was for the residential component of the project, and that there were no guarantees about fixing up the remaining golf courses or clubouse. At the time, the sale was pending whether or not Visions Golf could get the rezone. Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.
said. “I haven’t stopped doing the things I love.” She is currently studying education at Polk State College and keeps up with her hobbies, such as fishing and photography. And she is still involved at her church. But to have a functioning kidney would help Massey return to a more normal daily routine. And fortunately for her, she has found a donor: family friend Brenda Rayborn. Rayborn’s husband and Massey’s father have been friends since junior high school, so Rayborn has known Massey since she was a baby. Rayborn decided to make the sacrifice for Massey because her husband was ineligible. “I just feel that God’s guided me in this way,” Rayborn said.
Massey will receive Rayborn’s kidney March 11. Massey’s insurance will cover the costs of both women’s procedures, but Rayborn will have to take a few weeks off from work during the recovery process. To help Rayborn recover the financial losses during that time, Massey’s family will be hosting a fundraiser Saturday, Jan. 31, at Krystal in Plant City. The main attraction at the fundraiser will be a car show. Massey likes old cars and is a member of an interest group in Plant City. Each car at the show will pay a donation to register. There will also be raffles, a bake sale and a live deejay. More competitive visitors will enjoy the corn hole tournament. Bracelets and t-shirts will be sold, as well.
“(Rayborn) is giving up something that she doesn’t have to,” Massey said. “I was very excited that it’s coming from somebody that I know, so it’s that much more special.” Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.
After completing a class called Universal Code of Military Justice, in which she was the only woman and the only non-lawyer, she worked in the legal office at the naval base in Great Lakes, Illinois. “Mostly what I did was for evidence. I would have papers where these sailors would go AWOL, and so all I had to do was show the papers that showed they didn’t report back to duty when they were supposed to,” Ann said.
completed his education, and he had begun to teach a Bible class at a local church. So he decided to stay in Great Lakes. Though Ann did not yet follow the Christian faith, she started going to church with another woman who was an officer. And, she started attending the Bible study that Barry was teaching, which is how she met both Barry and Jesus. “You weren’t supposed to fraternize with the enlisted people, but I did anyway,” Ann said. She even invited Barry and other enlistees to the women officers’ quarters for a Christmas party. In 1955, Ann and Barry were married, and soon after, Ann was pregnant with their first child. In that era, women were not allowed to serve if they were mothers of children under 18 years of age.
Both retired from the Navy that year. Barry attended seminary, and the couple moved among Midwestern churches for a few decades. When their daughter moved to Brandon, Florida, they retired in Plant City. Ann also had Florida roots, so the move fit. Now, Barry preaches from December until Easter at The Oaks, an RV camp on Highway 92. “I love it. It’s mostly people from Canada, and up in Michigan and Minnesota, come down for the winter to get out of the snow,” Barry said. “They’re from Catholic backgrounds, reformed, Presbyterian, all kinds of churches. But I don’t care about what church they come from. I just want them to know about Jesus.” Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.
center was built under the old requirements for parking. In August 2014, an amendment was made to this section of the code, so that 1.5 parking spaces were required per 100 square feet. The lot cannot be expanded to increase the parking area, because its four sides are occupied by roadways and a conservation easement. Bravotampa designed the Thonotosassa Burger King to be smaller than others, which would decrease the number of required spaces, but it did not make enough of a difference. Phillip Scearce, director of the Planning and Zoning Division, made the amendment to the code last summer. “I was looking at parking and bringing it closer to what other codes have, but I’ve been doing some research and there are definitely some different standards for fast food and there are different standards for sit-down (restaurants),” Scearce said. “I have to admit, 47 spaces is quite a
bit for a fast food restaurant.” Bravotampa applied for a code variance so that Burger King could open with just 34 spaces. At Plant City’s established stand-alone Burger King on James L. Redman Parkway, about 65% of sales are from the drive-through. This fits most Burger Kings’ figures of 60% to 70%. Because of the high percentage of drive through sales, Mike Longley, a spokesman for Bravotampa’s parent company, Quality Dining, said fewer parking spaces would be necessary. “The parking that we have on this site, we believe is adequate for the building and the amount of seating,” Longley said. The board of adjustment voted unanimously to approve the variance, so that Burger King may operate with just 34 parking spaces. Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver. com.
THEIR WORLD
Barry returned to the U.S. after the war ended in 1953. He had been a dental technician in the Navy, but needed formal education in the field in order to continue serving. He attended school in Great Lakes, Illinois. There wasn’t a need for overseas naval dentists when Barry be required to have at least 47 spaces. The city code used to require one parking space per 100 square feet at any eating or drinking establishment. The currently wooded area that will become Burger King is part of a bigger parcel that includes the adjacent shopping center. The shopping
IF YOU GO CAR SHOW & FUNDRAISING EVENT When: 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Jan. 31 Where: Krystal, 2615 James L. Redman Parkway, Plant City Ways to contribute: Raffle tickets, bake sale, purchase of t-shirts and more
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OPEN HOUSE by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
Raulerson Castillo Westlake celebrates move to new office Raulerson Castillo Westlake & Company hosted an open house Tuesday, Jan. 13, to celebrate its recent move to a new office at 1907 S. Alexander Street. Guests took tours of the spacious suite and congratulated the CPAs who lead the firm: State Representative Dan Raulerson, Irene Castillo and Rob Westlake.
State Representative Dan Raulerson led guests on tours of the new office.
vogue by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor
Strutting in Strawberry Style Record-breaking numbers turned out to this year’s Strawberry Festival Fashion Show Thursday, Jan. 22. The show took place at the Grimes Family Agricultural Center. The latest fashions from RAOK Boutique, Stein Mart, Bealls and more strutted down the catwalk. A luncheon took place before.
Rob Westlake, one of the leaders of the firm, brought Tate Westlake to the event. The Solomon sisters
Glittering headbands were a popular item from RAOK Boutique. Left: Whitney Humphrey Jim Baggett, Susan Baggett, Tim Conway and Terry Ballard
Right: It wouldn’t be a Plant City fashion show without some Gator pride.
John Dicks, Sharon Dicks, Darryl Williams and Gwen Ford
Statement necklaces are a huge trend again this year.
Left: April Messick, the firm’s billing coordinator, greeted guests and helped them check in.
Right: Tropical prints stood out on the catwalk.
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FAN FAVORITE by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
DUKE’S BREWHOUSE Menu: Traditional American bar fare, such as chicken wings and hamburgers; various Italian, Mexican and seafood dishes; 24 different beers on draft. Address: 2212 James L. Redman Pkwy. Phone: (813) 752-2700
THIS WEEK’S CROSSWORD ANSWERS Duke’s Brewhouse opened its doors on Jan. 15.
Justin Kline
Duke’s Brewhouse opens
The sports bar, formerly known as Daisy Dukes, will have some menu items created by Strawberry Crest High School’s culinary team.
THIS WEEK’S CRYPTOGRAM ANSWERS 1. A man doggedly dug his heels in when his kids kept hounding him to get a new puppy. 2. A track coach was dating a very positive and bright lady who wanted to settle down and get hitched but he kept on giving her the run-around.
Plant City Times & Observer Locally Owned by Ed Verner, Nate Kilton and Felix Haynes 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
The first thing customers will notice about Duke’s Brewhouse it that the restaurant dropped the “Daisy” from its name. The next thing may be that the owners have blended the old in with the new. Formerly Daisy Dukes, the new restaurant switched over to the Duke’s Brewhouse brand Jan. 15. Chuck Jamieson and his operating partners are working to create a franchise that can eventually branch out around the Tampa Bay area. In their minds, Plant City was the
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perfect place to start. “We just kind of found a deal out here that we couldn’t refuse,” Jamieson said. “It was a great opportunity.” The goal was to turn it into what Jamieson calls a “modern brewhouse,” putting more emphasis on the beer selection and bar food. Duke’s currently has two dozen beers on tap, many of which are craft beers from breweries around Florida, including two of its own house brews: a blonde lager and a brown ale, dubbed Duke’s
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.
Blonde and Duke’s Brunette. The bar is also stocking Labatt, Canada’s version of Budweiser, for Tampa Bay Lightning hockey games. The menu has been simplified, tweaked and tailored for more than just wings and burgers. It has unique plans to build upon it with help from chef Paul Bonanno and the Strawberry Crest High School culinary program. The Crest students helped Jamieson design the new menu, among other things, but haven’t
been able to get back in the kitchen and experiment with new dishes yet. That will be happening soon, and Bonanno hopes that the partnership can last beyond the school year and into the summer. “As far as Chuck and I are concerned, we want this to be a continued relationship,” Bonanno said. “We do internships with culinary schools already, so we’re hoping to have some students work in the kitchen at Duke’s and gain realworld experience.” Fans of Daisy Dukes restaurant will be pleased to know that much of the restaurant remains the same — including the staff. “There was a lot of real good people that worked here, and were kind of carrying this thing at a point where it wasn’t doing so well,” Jamieson said. “We kept them on.” There are also plans to make the restaurant into a musicfriendly venue, hosting country and rock acts. Perhaps most importantly for a sports restaurant, the Duke’s staff is hoping to stay connected with the local sports scene — especially with Plant City High School up the road.
Plant City Times &
Observer
General Manager/Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@PlantCityObserver.com General Manager/Advertising / Stacey Hudson, shudson@tampabay.com Managing Editor / Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@PlantCityObserver.com Assistant Managing Editor / Jess Eng, jeng@PlantCityObserver.com Staff Writers / Justin Kline, jkline@PlantCityObserver.com; Catherine Sinclair, csinclair@PlantCityObserver.com Advertising Executives / Veronica Prostko, vprostko@PlantCityObserver.com; Joanna Verga, jverga@tampabay.com Circulation/Office Manager / Linda Lancaster, llancaster@PlantCityObserver.com
“If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.” — Friedrich Hayek, “Road to Serfdom,” 1944
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THE STYLE FILE by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor
At the end, the buddies gathered on stage to sing a song.
Sports was one of the themes.
A tiara made Amanda feel beautiful.
DRESSED TO IMPRESS The annual Every Buddy’s Beautiful Fashion Show at Plant City High School featured some fabulous fashions and amazing talents from the cosmetology department’s Skills USA team and the Raider Buddy Club. The Jan. 23 event was a fundraiser and is a night that focuses on members’ beauty and personality.
Jade Curran
A talented dancer, one buddy did a routine to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.”
These buddies repped the Bucs.
This trio switched wardrobes.
Clockwise from above: This duow did a dance to a Faith Hill and Tim McGraw song. One buddy was in FFA. Dapper dress was all part of the show.
Some buddies danced with their cosmetology partners.
The buddies had a lot of attitude.
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ª 3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP BREAKING FREE by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer
Dover church starts addiction recovery outreach program The program is open to anyone, religious or not, who hopes to recover from a substance addiction.
Holy Protection Orthodox Church, a congregation of about 70 parishioners in Dover, is set apart from other local churches not only in its denominational practices, but also in its efforts to offer a 12step program for local people who want to overcome their addictions. Church leaders have worked to develop the program for about a year, drawing ideas from Alcoholics Anonymous, but hoping to incorporate a spiritual element to the recovery process. Harry Linsinbigler, pastor of Holy Protection, is responsible for developing the program’s curriculum and inviting guest speakers to share their insight. He said it was not meant to replace programs like Alcoholics Anonymous, but to supplement those programs with spiritual guidance.
FLORIDA ALCOHOL & DRUG STATISTICS • Florida has the 11th highest drug overdose death rate in the U.S. • 70% of Florida teenagers say their parents are the most significant influence on their decision of whether to drink alcohol. • Alcohol is the thirdlargest cause of death in the U.S., and it is a significant risk factor for heart disease and cancer. • 50% of suicides in the U.S. are linked to alcohol or drug abuse. Information from healthyamericans.org, alcoholstats.com and Florida Institute of Technology.
“We call it recovery ... but it’s really healing, and the ultimate healer of our souls and bodies is Christ,” Linsinbigler said. The first meeting was Dec. 1. There will continue to be one meeting each month for a year that introduces a new step of the recovery process, and supplementary meetings will explore the month’s step in depth and teach participants how to apply it in their own lives. Although each monthly meeting builds on previous steps, new members can join at any time. They will be integrated at their own pace. The program is for both men and women, but each participant will be matched with a church member as a mentor and accountability partner, who will be of the same gender. “The program got started because people in our parish are in need of a program such as this,” he said. “So it was our intent to train, learn and apply the principles that have gotten people sober and kept them sober.” As someone who has had close relationships with recovCatherine Sinclair ering alcoholics, the program Harry Linsinbigler has worked with parishioners to establish leader, who wishes to remain outreach programs at Holy Protection Orthodox Church. anonymous outside of the church, has seen how effec- overcome an addiction to al- and wherever we are, we are the Church.” tive a 12-step program such as cohol or drugs. Linsinbigler said that the For more information or to Holy Protection’s can be. “When you think about it, a church has recently been fo- express interest in joining the very big number of people in cusing more on outreach than program, contact Linsinbigler the United States are addicted it has before. Its two other out- at fatherharryL3@yahoo.com, to some form of a chemical — reach ministries emphasize or call the church at (813) 659drugs, alcohol, those sorts of prayer for parishioners’ work- 0123. The church is located at places and co-workers, and 3820 Moores Lake Road, Dothings,” he said. ver. Regardless of religious be- care for the sick. “You don’t come to church. Contact Catherine Sinclair liefs or lack thereof, the program is for any member of You are the Church,” Linsinbi- at csinclair@plantcityobserver. the community who hopes to gler said. “Wherever we meet com.
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COPS CORNER WEST ORANGE
The following information was gathered from incident and arrest reports obtained from the Plant City Police Department.
JANUARY 2
GUN-SWIPER
600 block of East Alexander Street. Vehicle Burglary. Suspect(s) broke into a Saturn and took a 1944 Mossin Gnagant rifle and 20 rounds of armor piercing ammo. The items were valued at $225 for both. An Xbox 360 valued at $200 was also taken.
PILL POPPER
Police Place. Grand Theft. Complainant met with an officer at the station to report the theft of medicine. A package of oxycodone, valued at $300, was taken.
EXPLORING
2300 block of North Johnson Street. Vehicle Burglary. Complainant advised that a 2000 white Ford Explorer had been burglarized.
WHO ARE YOU?
2000 block of East Baker Street. Identity Theft/Scheme to Defraud. Suspects attempted to purchase a vehicle with another person’s identification. They were charged with attempting to procure property with false information and scheming to defraud. They were both transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.
NOT A ‘FAIR-WAY’
400 block of Concord Way. Burglary Residence. Complainant advised that some golf clubs were taken from the residence.
QUICK BUCK
East Tomlin Street/North Maryland Avenue. Robbery. Complainant advised he was robbed of $20 by three suspects.
SHEAR STUPIDITY
2800 block of James L. Redman Parkway. Retail Theft. A suspect stole table saw blades, valued at $39.88.
NOT PUMPED
500 block of North County Line Road. Lost Property. Complainant reported that she lost her wallet near pump #10.
DOWN THE TUBE
1100 block of East Ohio Street. Burglary. Suspect(s) kicked open the front door and took three flat screen TVs, valued at $2,000.
WHAT A PANE
1100 block of East Calhoun Street. Criminal Mischief. A suspect broke the windows of the victim’s front door.
JANUARY 3
TECH PROBLEMS
3700 block of Crystal Dew Street. Burglary Vehicle. Complainant advised that someone took a Lenovo Model M-400, 19-inch laptop, valued at $1,000 and an Apple iPhone 4s, valued at $400, from his Jeep Cherokee.
NOT ‘WRECK-OMMENDED’
West Strickland Street/South Tyler Street. Fleeing to Elude. An officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a vehicle with an expired tag. The vehicle refused to stop and left the area at a high rate of speed, then crashed.
HIT THE ROAD JACK
2400 block of James L. Redman Parkway. Trespass after warning. A male was trespassed from the business, but refused to leave after being repeatedly told to do so. An active trespass was in effect, and he was arrested. A CRA was completed and he was released on his own recognizance.
ON THE HUNT
1400 block of Larrick Lane. Vehicle burglary. The complainant advised his vehicle was ransacked, but nothing was taken. There was no forced entry into the vehicle. The victim signed a waiver of prosecution.
STRAIGHT SHOOTER
600 block of East Alexander Street. Vehicle burglary. Complainant advised a black Taurus Polymer Revolver handgun, valued at $500, was taken from the glove box of his vehicle.
THAT BYTES
3200 block of Crystal Dew Street. Vehicle burglary. An HP laptop, valued at $1,500, was taken from a vehicle. The laptop had been inside a black case, which was also taken.
JANUARY 4
TRIGGER HAPPY
600 block of North Vermont Street. Vandalism. Complainant advised he heard several shots earlier in the morning during dawn from a vehicle. Several subjects shot a combination of a shotgun and hand guns into the driver’s side door, front fender and windshield of a 1972 brown Chevrolet Caprice.
TAKEN
3000 block of Azalea Blossom Drive. Vehicle Theft. Complainant advised a red 2005 Nissan Altima was stolen from his driveway.
UN-MERRY CHRISTMAS
1700 block of North Orange Street. Petit Theft. Several Christmas yard ornaments, valued at about $50, were stolen from the yard.
NOISE MAKERS
East Alabama Street/South Morgan Street. Shooting. Officers responded to the area reference possible shots heard.
JANUARY 5
BUSTED
1300 block of South Gibbs Street. DWLSR/ Recovered Stolen Vehicle Arrest. An officer got behind a red 1994 GMC Sonoma truck. After running the license plate, it was determined to be stolen. The driver was arrested for DWLSR.
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OBSERVER OBITUARIES Freda Ann “Annie” Blackwell
Freda Ann “Annie” Blackwell, 61, died Jan. 22, 2015, in Temple Terrace.
She was born in Colquitt, Georgia, to Norman and Katie Braswell. She loved to garden and write poetry. Ms. Blackwell is predeceased by daughter, Margie Blackwell; brother, Buddy Braswell; and sisters, Frances Brittle and Paula Braswell. Loving family who survive are daughter, Felicia Fox (David); brothers, Tommy, James and Tim Braswell; sisters, Marsha Haynes and Pamela West; and grandsons, David Fox Jr. and Dylan Fox. A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, at Wells Memorial and Event Center. Condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com.
Wallace Edwin (Ed) Britt
Wallace Edwin (Ed) Britt, 96, died surrounded by family Sunday, Jan. 18, 2015. A native of Crawford, Georgia, Mr. Britt married Virginia (Ginny) Williams Dec. 24, 1939. He served in the Navy during WWII. Upon his discharge, the young family moved to Plant City to begin a long career as owners and operators of Nu Way Cleaners. Mr. Britt devoted himself to his first love, our Lord Jesus Christ. He tirelessly proclaimed God’s word as His servant at Cork Church of Christ for 45 years. For much of that time, he was the host of a local radio program, “Bible Talk.” He served on the Board of Directors at Florida College where he and Ginny earned the Friend To Youth Award in 2002. Mr. Britt was preceded in death by his beloved Ginny after 68 years of living and loving side by side; grandson, Ronnie Britt; parents, Robert Lee and Mattie Mae (Johnson); and siblings, Herman, Fred and Willie Lee (Smith). He is survived by sons, Dr. Larry Britt, Dr. Randy Britt (Pamela) and Dr. Robert Britt (Pamela); sister, Dorothy Koulouris and her children; grandchildren, Jenny Fowler (David), Luke Britt (Bonnie), Seth Britt, Erin Hardy (Nick), Adam Britt and Dakota Britt; great-grandchildren, Amanda and Katie Fowler, Kole and Adason Britt, and Kye and Max Hardy; step-grandchildren, Brooke Westerfield (Josh), Dustin Richardson (Sara) and Sgt. Blake Richardson; stepgreat-grandchildren, Erin Westerfield, and Blake and Bentley Richardson; other extended family; and his church family. Funeral services were held Saturday, Jan. 24, at Cork Church of Christ. Burial at Oak Hill Cemetery, Lakeland. The family extends special thanks and appreciation to the staff of Columbiana (Alabama) Health and Rehabilitation for their loving care. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Ed and Ginny Britt Scholarship Fund, Florida College, 119 North Glen Arven Avenue, Temple Terrace, Florida 33617. Condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com.
Debra Jane Brown
Debra Jane Brown, 50, of Thonotosassa, died Jan. 24, 2015, at her home. Born Jan. 4, 1965, in Plant City, she was the daughter of the late Billy Brown and Shirley Fowler Brown; she survives. She was predeceased by son, Billy Earl Brown. Also surviving are daughter, Sarah Comerico (Joseph); brother, William Brown; and sister, Delores Clayton (Bobby). Ms. Brown was a school bus driver for Hillsborough County Schools and loved butterflies, her children and Super Nintendo. A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 6, at Haught Funeral Home Chapel. The family will receive friends for one hour prior to service. Condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.
Lucia Grace Corsiglia
Lucia Grace Corsiglia, 97, died Jan. 16, 2015. Born Lucia Grace Ferrara, but known to all as “Nonnie,” she leaves behind two children, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. She received a bachelor’s in
nursing from New York University, graduated first in her class from Brooklyn & State Hospital and was on the staff of New York Hospital and Cornell University. After marrying Albert Corsiglia, she moved to Miami to start a family, but continued her career at Miami Baptist Hospital (1963-1981), eventually becoming Head Nurse of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. She was active in her community, serving for many years as a Cub Scout and Girl Scout leader, and for three years as PTA president. After the death of her husband, she moved to Temple Terrace to be near her grandchildren. From early on in her life, she was a patron of the arts, particularly dance and opera. She often assisted at her daughter’s school, Firethorn School of Dance, and was much loved by students and parents alike. Though raised as a Catholic, she was drawn to the teachings of The Baha’i Faith, and joined the faith at age 84. She particularly loved the prayers and the teachings regarding the oneness of humanity, was an active and beloved member and served on the first Local Spiritual Assembly of Temple Terrace. In 2004 she moved to Plant City, where she lived with her daughter (Lucia C. Hatcher) and son-in-law (Dr. John S. Hatcher). Condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.
Nellie Clark Jarvi
Janet M. Dougan
Earl Dwayne Jent, 52, of Plant City, died Jan. 20, 2015. He was preceded in death by his father, William Earl Jent. He is survived by his mother, Alice Jean Jent; sisters, Sandra Sweeney (Dennis) and Dara Jent; nephew, Christopher Sweeney; niece, Lindsay Kennedy; and great-nieces and nephews, Jordan, Jasmine, Austin, Bryce and Chevy Kennedy. A celebration of life was held Monday, Jan. 26, at Faith Temple Assembly, Plant City. Interment at Mt. Enon Cemetery. Condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.
Janet M. Dougan, 85, died Jan. 25, 2015, in Plant City. Mrs. Dougan was a native of Connecticut and moved to Florida four years ago. She is preceded in death by her husband, Charles Dougan; and son, Ronald Dougan. She is survived by her daughter, Kathleen Stone (Leverett); daughter-in-law, Katie Dougan; and grandchildren, Kathryn and Michael Stone.
Robert “Bob” Goddertz
Robert “Bob” Goddertz, 81, died Jan. 20, 2015, in Plant City. Mr. Goddertz was born in Madison, Wisconsin, and retired to Plant City in August of 1989. He was a big Chicago Cubs fan and liked to play shuffleboard. He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Marlene Goddertz; son, Rick Mattern; daughters, Debra Mattern, Teri Mattern and Susie Mattern (Danny Lambert); and grandchildren, Danny, Nikki, Tiffany, El lie, Robert and Abbie. A celebration of life was held Monday, Jan. 26, at Wells Memorial and Event Center. Condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com.
Joann Vaughn Godwin
Joann Vaughn Godwin, 75, died Jan. 19, 2015, after a brave five-year battle with ovarian cancer. Mrs. Godwin was born in Wauchula in 1939. Her father, Preston Vaughn, and mother, Catherine, moved their family of seven to Plant City. Mrs. Godwin graduated from Turkey Creek High School in 1957 and the University of South Florida in 1966. She married Frank Godwin in 1972. They enjoyed traveling together, and had many memorable experiences around the world. Mrs. Godwin was a master gardener, specializing in exotic species of fruits and vegetables. She never met a plant she didn’t like and passed that passion on to her family. Her parents; brother, Gary M. Vaughn; and sisters, Eunice Garner and Diana Gohr predecease her. She is survived by husband, Frank Godwin; children, Tony Smith, Annalisa Smith, Mike Godwin and Diane McHugh (Mark); grandchildren, Corey and Liam Khaw, and Chelsea and Taylor McHugh; sisters, Gloria Varnadore, Gay Glover (Buddy) and Rhonda Brownlee (Dirk); and numerous loving nieces, nephews, and extended family. A private remembrance of Mrs. Godwin’s life will be held at a future date. “The dance of the palm trees, the oceans calling, the first rays of sun and heaven is here.” (Mike Dolan)
Nellie Clark Jarvi, 91, died Thursday, Jan. 22, 2015, in Lexington, Kentucky, where she had been living since the death of her husband, Kayo Jarvi, in 2010. She was born May 8, 1923, in Harrodsburg, Kentucky. Mrs. Jarvi moved with her family to DeKalb, Illinois, in 1936 and she graduated from DeKalb Township High School in 1941. She and Kayo married in 1946. She retired from DeKalb Agricultural Association Inc. In 1993, the Jarvis moved to Plant City. Mrs. Jarvi loved God and she served Him faithfully all her life. She loved her husband and her family, taking care of them as long as she lived. She was predeceased by her parents, Graydon and Annie Clark; sister, Dorothy Neilsson; and brother, Graydon Clark Jr. She is survived by her daughters, Claudia Blaylock (Bob) and Celia Taylor (Rudy); grandchildren, Megan Starling (Justin), Macy Andrews and Ian Blaylock (Monica); and greatgrandson, Linus Blaylock. The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 30, at First Baptist Church in DeKalb. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Nellie C. Jarvi Memorial Fund at Anderson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 605, 2011 South Fourth Street, DeKalb, Illinois, 60115.
Earl Dwayne Jent
Beverly Anne Wade Murray
Beverly Anne Wade Murray, 83, of Alpharetta, Georgia, and formerly Plant City, died Jan. 15, 2015, from cancer and other illnesses. She was the first “Little Miss Plant City” and was head majorette at Plant City High School, where she graduated in 1950. She and her husband raised their children in Lakeland. Mrs. Murray enjoyed bridge and bowling, and was an avid Florida Gators fan. She was preceded in death by her husband, James D. Murray, of Lakeland. She is survived by her daughters, Sharon Sullivan (Jerry), of Sugar Hill, Georgia and Leslie Stamps (Jansen), of Marietta, Georgia; and son, James D. Murray Jr. (Chris), of Palm Beach Gardens; five grandchildren and one greatgrandchild on the way; sisters, Bettye Bryant, of Plant City, and Virginia (Jenny) Ellis, of Lake City; and many nieces, nephews and extended family. Memorial services will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, in the chapel at First United Methodist Church on Lake Morton in Lakeland. A reception will follow in the church parlor.
Jean “Nana” Racine
Jean “Nana” Racine, 91, died Jan. 19, 2015, in Plant City. Mrs. Racine moved from Ontario to the United States in 1956. She had made Florida her home since 1978. She loved to knit, crochet and was a devout Catholic who attended St. Clement Catholic Church. She also volunteered for many years with the church for the Strawberry Festival. Mrs. Racine is predeceased by her husband of 71 years, Arthur Racine; daughter, Lorraine Hanson; and son, Eric Racine. Loving family who survive are daughters, Jackie Marcincuk (John) and Donna Burrage (Roger); brother, Alan; sisters, Vera and Mary; 11 grandchildren; and several great- and great-great-grandchildren. There will be a memorial Mass at St. Clement Catholic Church at 8 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4. Memorials may be made to the church in her honor. Condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com.
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Sports
YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | COMMUNITY
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Katie Maddox medals in first karate tourney. 14 SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM
PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM
SIDELINES
FRIDAY, JANUARY 30, 2015
WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?
martial arts by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
Don’t let the media deflate your Super Bowl
Do you have a good sports scoop for us? Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver. com.
SOCCER
+ Boys season comes to a close In the 4A-District 9 tournament, the Plant City Raiders made it to the championship game after defeating Hillsborough, 2-1, Jan. 22. In the Jan. 23 championship game, however, the East Bay Indians were able to get the upper hand and secure a 1-0 victory. In 5A-District 6 play, Durant and Strawberry Crest were both eliminated early. The Cougars dropped their quarterfinal game against George Jenkins, 3-2, Jan. 20, and the Chargers fell to champion Newsome, 5-0, the same night.
BASKETBALL
+ Girls rack up wins to end season Durant, which had previously lost three straight games, ended with a win and some momentum after holding Robinson to 30 points in a 35-30 home win. Led by Tamara Hanson’s 11 points, a win was exactly what the team needed to lift its spirits before going into a tough tournament schedule. Plant City may have dropped its final game by two points, losing to Middleton, but entered the tournament on a two-game district winning streak — three games total, counting a 58-55 non-district win over Armwood Jan. 21. The Lady Raiders finished with a 9-1 district record, tied with Strawberry Crest, the only 7A-7 team to beat Plant City. Tournament host Strawberry Crest hadn’t lost a game since the Seffner Christian New Year’s Tournament and held two of its last four regularseason opponents to under 20 points in blowout wins. The Lady Chargers beat Middleton, 64-53, at home after an 81-40 win over Spoto Jan. 21. Results from the district tournament, which ended Thursday night, were not available at press time. To view the tournament results and photos from the championship game, go to PlantCityObserver.com.
CHEERLEADING
+ SCHS team wins Conference The Western Conference was Tuesday, Jan. 20, at Durant High School. Strawberry Crest High School won for the third year in a row, with a score of 348 in the final championship competition. In the preliminary competition, SCHS scored 355.50, beating secondplace Freedom High School by 40.9 points. Durant High School tied for sixth place with Gaither High School in the final championship competition. Both teams had a score of 288. In the preliminary competition, DHS placed 10th, with a score of 265.25. Plant City High School placed 13th, with a score of 258 in the preliminary competition.
GROUND &POUND
Justin Kline
Kristi Vorce is an MMA titleholder at 22 and trains at her own studio in Plant City.
Plant City-based MMA fighter Kristi Vorce is seeking a second championship — and revenge — in New Port Richey next weekend. Most 22-year-olds who wear championship belts are probably doing so for Halloween or because they’re going to a WWE wrestling show. But Kristi Vorce’s belt is real, and she intends to earn another one Feb. 7 in New Port Richey. Her opponent, Gillian Robertson, is a familiar foe. In Vorce’s most recent fight, Robertson won by submission. And the stakes are higher than before now that a belt is on the line. Nothing else is on her mind. “Other fights have been offered to
me, but if I have a choice between a title fight and a normal fight, I’m taking the title fight,” Vorce says. A lifetime spent training has led to this opportunity, which Vorce could come out of with two strawweight championship belts to her name.
STARTING EARLY
Vorce began training in martial arts when she was 6, after her father placed her in a Shin-Toshi ka-
GET HANDS-ON Kristi Vorce only moonlights as an MMA fighter. By day, she’s a personal trainer operating in Plant City. Vorce and Alicia Hurley run HandsOn Training, where they offer private sessions in their own studio for anyone looking to bulk up, learn some fighting techniques or just get in shape. The two train by the hour, and pricing can be discussed by phone or in person. The studio is located in the plaza at 645 E. Alexander St., Unit 643. For more information, call (813) 326-1643.
SEE MMA / PAGE 14
SEE KLINE / PAGE 13
baseball by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
Prep baseball season hits next week
It’s almost time for local high school teams to dust off their home plates and play ball. How is the boys game looking for 2015? If anything in Plant City comes close to matching the excitement of football season, it’s baseball’s opening day. And with prep baseball season geared to get rolling next week, Durant, Plant City and Strawberry Crest high schools are all looking to make this year’s 7A-District 7 race as tight as ever. By the looks of things, all area fans should have something to cheer for this season.
DURANT
The 2014 Cougars, as many probably expected, ended up atop the 7A-7 standings with an 8-2 district record after staving off tough customers in Brandon and Strawberry Crest (both
7-3). As the only team in the area with a total average above .300, it was tough not to like Durant’s odds of making it out on top, which it did with a 1-0 win over the Eagles in the district championship game. However, Durant suffered a 5-3 loss at home to Sickles in the first round of the 7A playoffs, just five days later. Another blow for the Cougars is that no team in the area is taking as big of a hit to the roster. The seven seniors that have graduated — Garrett Wright, Luke Heyer, Paxton Sims, Ryan Barfield, Jacob Scolaro, Corey Hamm and Tyler Long — all played prominent roles for this team. On the bright side, head
coach Butch Valdes has a knack for getting the most out of a roster. Last year saw the emergence of young guns like junior Jake Sullivan and sophomore Jonah Scolaro. Both are .350plus hitters. And on the mound, senior Bryce Gainer looks primed to lead the rotation after a 42-strikeout, 2.52-ERA junior campaign. Winning this district is a tall order, especially after big changes, but Durant can’t be counted out until it’s all over.
PLANT CITY
Injuries got the better of the Raiders in 2014, bringing the team to a .500 record and dashing its playoff hopes with a late cold streak.
Call it what you want: “Deflate-gate,” “Ballghazi,” “same old Patriots.” We’re just days away from the granddaddy of ‘em all, the Super Bowl, and all anyone with a nationally syndicated column, radio show or TV program wants to talk about are New England’s footballs. This is so stupid. I’ve always looked forward to reading up on the Super Bowl JUSTIN matchups every KLINE year, if only because they were the hottest talking point of the two weeks before the game. If there were some matchup exploitation to be found in one of the defenses, a good underdog story, or even the guy with the biggest mouth on his team talking smack about the opponent, I always enjoyed following the media blitz. This year, however, it’s been two weeks since that lopsided AFC Championship Game, and we’re still talking about footballs and inflation specifications and how someone can actually deflate a football if Bill Belichick is really lying to everyone. Two whole weeks, and nothing has changed. I really wanted to write this column last week after Mark Brunell, the second or thirdmost important person in Jacksonville Jaguars history, was given some TV time and nearly brought himself to tears talking about deflated footballs, legacies and how he was too morally sound to ever do such a thing in his playing days. But, I figured I’d wait until this week to see if things would get any better. They didn’t. As regular readers of this column know, I’m a Buffalo native and a huge Bills fan. I don’t like New England one bit. But for once, I’m on their side. Why? They would have demolished the Colts no matter what those footballs felt like. New England scored four rushing touchdowns, and the defense only gave up seven points, so you’re looking at a final score of 28-7 even if Tom Brady didn’t throw a single touchdown pass. The Colts
That’s not to say there weren’t good moments. Thanks to the formidable arms of juniors Ryan Boyd and Billy McKay, the Raiders posted the lowest ERA in Hillsborough County halfway through the season. And at the plate, senior Connor Slagill batted .444 and led the offense in every category through 21 games. Head coach Mike Fryrear now has what he feels is his best team since taking the Plant City job, bolstered in part by the addition of senior Jake Ralyea into the lineup, who transferred from Strawberry Crest. Fans can expect Boyd and McKay, who combined for an ERA of 0.84, to serve as coaces, though McKay will still see plenty of action as a reliever. And with senior Sawyer Dawson returning from a nagging hamstring injury, the bat-
TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALLGAME Need to be in the bleachers on opening day? Plan now, because the first home games are coming soon. Strawberry Crest: Feb. 6 vs. Wiregrass Ranch, 4:30 p.m. (at Plant City, Preseason Classic); Feb. 13 vs. Riverview, 7 p.m. (home opener). Plant City: Feb. 6 vs. Trinity Christian, 7:30 p.m. (Preseason Classic); Feb. 13 vs. Plant, 7 p.m. (home opener). Durant: Feb. 20 vs. Brandon, 7 p.m. (home opener). ting order looks to have more bangers than base-stealers this time around. If Plant City can stay healthy, it’ll be a real threat to get Fryrear his first 7A-7 title.
SEE BASEBALL / PAGE 13
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running the race by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
KLINE / PAGE 12
Plant City teens raising money with YMCA 5K The Plant City Family YMCA’s Teen Leaders club is one of eight in Hillsborough County, and it’s competing with the rest to raise money with the annual Teen Leaders 5K. Eight YMCA Teen Leaders clubs exist in Hillsborough County, and all of them are having a friendly fundraising competition at the end of next month. With the annual Teen Leaders 5K coming up, the Plant City branch is looking for the win — and they could use some help. The Teen Leaders 5K was created in 2013, a year before Plant City’s YMCA got its own Teen Leaders Club. Last year, members like Emily Colburn attended the 5K for the first time and got hooked. “It was really good to see the vibe, the energy, that was put into this,” Colburn said. “It was good to see people actually want to do it, to take a step forward with fitness. We had everyone from elite athletes to people who just got off the couch.” After participating in that event, Colburn and her 10 colleagues are working hard to help make this year’s event a success. The members of the Pamela Colburn eight Hillsborough clubs, ages 12 to 18, meet once a month The 2014 YMCA Teen Leaders 5K had plenty of participants. to plan out every aspect of Plant City residents signed up the 5K, from the venue to the for the 5K through the Plant snacks and t-shirts. All of the SIGN UP City YMCA in 2014, although money goes to the individual Where: Hillsborough River there could have been more. clubs. State Park, 15402 U.S. At the time, the club wasn’t In a mix of car washes, 301 North, Thonotosassa, aware that runners could dance marathon events and Florida 33592 choose to represent Plant City more, the Teen Leaders 5K When: 9 a.m. Saturday, at the click of a button online. is one of the best shots these Feb. 28 (check-ins begin Now, they do. clubs have at raising a lot of at 8 a.m.). The goal for 2015 is to immoney each year. Since none Cost: $20 per person. prove upon that number. So, of the clubs are given money Register online by Feb. the club is doing whatever it from their corresponding 3 with the promo code can to make sure that the $20 YMCA facilities, everything “YMCA” and get $5 off. from every registration fee it’s they want to do as a group has responsible for goes to the to be funded with a strict, doTo register: www.tampaymca.org/leaders5k. Make right place. it-yourself approach. sure to select the Plant They’re also hoping that The big goal for Plant City is City YMCA at the prompt. a bigger turnout can lead to raise enough money for the to more interest in the club, group to take a trip to North which would lead to more Carolina to visit the Blue Ridge Leaders’ School where similar workshops, classes and other members joining up. Contact Justin Kline at YMCA clubs from all over the character-building activities. Colburn said that about 50 jkline@plantcityobsesrver.com. eastern United States go for
BASEBALL / PAGE 12
STRAWBERRY CREST
Crest enjoyed a good year in 2014, going 7-3 in the district and making it to the semifinal against Brandon. Much of the team’s success had to do with its pitching: Six Chargers posted ERAs below 3.00, and three of them were able to keep it under 1.60. Although graduated senior Austin Boatright’s 7-2 record was the best on the staff, current senior Mark Moclair
led the team with a 1.33 ERA and several shutouts. He also proved to be good with a bat in his hands, hitting .290 and leading the team with 17 RBI. Crest lost starters Boatright and Ben Welch, along with several others, to graduation. And it lost Jake Ralyea by way of transferring schools. But head coach Eric Beattie has groomed some solid, young talent. Junior hurlers Alex Kachler and Matthew Trzeciak looked good in over 40 combined innings of action, giving up only
11 earned runs and striking out 31 batters. At the plate, junior Logan Fernandez batted .293 with 15 runs scored and stole seven bases on eight attempts. Also returning to the lineup is senior Jeffrey Murray, who batted .312 with 18 runs and 11 RBI, and stole 10 bases. Although Crest’s future isn’t the clearest on paper, it does have a pitching staff that can help an offense get comfortable. And perhaps make some noise in the district.
had gotten lucky the week before, and the Patriots knew exactly how to exploit its weak defense. It’s also important to know that no two teams have the same preferences when it comes to their footballs. Did anyone see when Super Bowl champion Brad Johnson had no problem admitting that he paid people to rough up his footballs before games? Deflating a football gives a QB a similar advantage as roughing one up: It becomes easier to grip and, therefore, throw accurately. Every player is looking for an advantage in the games, no matter how small. If an opportunity is there, they’ll take it. Is it good practice to deflate footballs before taking the field? Probably not. But, it’s not an offense worth anywhere near the attention it’s been given by the mainstream media, nor is it a crime worthy of the popular “ban them
from the Super Bowl” cries of Twitter’s moral police. If anything, give the Pats a 15-yard penalty to open the Super Bowl. Anything more is going overboard. Now that that’s off my chest, let’s talk about the big game. Before this season, I predicted that Seattle and Denver would have a rematch this weekend. One out of two ain’t bad, I suppose, and I do enjoy seeing New England play great defenses in the Super Bowl. The Pats lose every time. On paper, this is probably the worst offense that Brady has ever taken to a Super Bowl. When Brandon LaFell is a team’s best wideout, the quarterback must be a miracle worker. Fortunately for New England, late-season addition LeGarrette Blount was the team’s differencemaker, getting it to this game in the first place with a great postseason. I’ll bet the Bucs wish they would have kept him around. Seattle’s passing attack is
atrocious, ranking 27th in the league, but the team has been thankful for Marshawn Lynch leading the game’s best rushing attack. And, as usual, the defense leads the league in nearly everything. New England’s biggest weakness has always been a dominant pass rush. Just ask the New York Giants. That’s not something the Seahawks have had this year, but they make up for it with their excellent pass defense, especially with Earl Thomas returning to the middle after an injury. Brady will have time to throw the ball, but with no receivers that can go deep and stretch the field, the passing game will be very predictable. My three predictions for this one are as follows: Seahawks win, 24-14, another defensive player (but not Malcolm Smith again) wins the Super Bowl MVP award and Lynch waits until Seattle has a 14-point lead to commit another fineable offense on the field.
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MMA / PAGE 12 rate program with her younger brother. She picked up on the art quickly, and her father saw potential. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Because I was so good at that, he wanted me to do everything,â&#x20AC;? Vorce says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want me to do just that â&#x20AC;&#x201D; which is what I really wanted to do â&#x20AC;&#x201D; so he kind of pushed me into it. But, I appreciate it now.â&#x20AC;? Since then, Vorce has studied Muay Thai, Tae Kwon Do, Hapkido and Krav Maga in depth. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also become familiar with elements of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, boxing and Vale Tudo striking, all of which are seen quite often in MMA bouts. Before breaking into the MMA scene, Vorce got her combat experience in tournaments and competitions held at various gyms. When she grew old enough to pay for her own training, she mixed things up a bit. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the money to train, they would stick me up against pro fighters just because they needed someone to be a punching bag,â&#x20AC;? she says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And I would take it, because I needed the training.â&#x20AC;? Vorce knew she wanted to be a fighter when she discovered Gina Carano. The longtime MMA fighter was everything Vorce aspired to be: calm, confident and fearless on her feet. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was her Muay Thai background,â&#x20AC;? Vorce says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The way that she moves â&#x20AC;&#x201D; you wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even see it coming, and sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d backfist you. She had the (guts) to turn around â&#x20AC;&#x201D; turn her back to you â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and nail you in the
side of the head. Her knockouts were always beautiful.â&#x20AC;? When Vorce finally made it to the MMA scene, she wasted no time trying to knock people out like Carano.
YOUNG GUN
Fighting in the 115-pound strawweight division, Vorce made her professional debut in Lakeland-based Rival Fight League on March 29, 2014. Her opponent, Kristan Miller, held a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and was widely favored to win the fight. Not that that mattered to Vorce. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t care what everybody else said,â&#x20AC;? Vorce says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I trained hard, ate right, and when I stepped into the cage, I completely destroyed her. She hit me once in each round.â&#x20AC;? While Vorce didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get the knockout, she did win the three-round fight by unanimous decision after decimating Miller in stand-up fighting. Shortly afterward, her next fight was already planned. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everyone starts yelling my name outside, so I went out there,â&#x20AC;? Vorce says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re like, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Get in the cage! Get in the cage!â&#x20AC;&#x2122; The owner, Ross Kellin, is standing there with a microphone and this girl Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never seen in my life. He goes, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;She doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re impressive!â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? That was Yarlyn Gonzales, who held the belt in the strawweight division. Gonzales, a product of the prestigious Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Angelo school, wanted a fight soon, and Vorce agreed. The two fought on May 31,
and Vorce sent a message of her own right from the get-go. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the first 10 seconds of the first round, I lifted my arm and opened my ribcage for her to kick me,â&#x20AC;? Vorce says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As soon as she did, I hit her with a twopiece in the face.â&#x20AC;&#x153; She ended up beating Gonzales by split decision to win the belt, but wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t called out from the locker room again. Her next fight, against Robertson, was booked for June 14 at a different promotion, in Port Richey. That one didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go so well, as Vorce lost to Robertson by submission in the first round. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The third time she went to lock in an armbar on me, she couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get it,â&#x20AC;? Vorce says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I stacked her, and I was about to stand up. She felt that I was going to stand up, so she grabbed my ankle and twisted it until it clicked three times. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s illegal â&#x20AC;&#x201D; there are no twisting locks and no small joint manipulations.â&#x20AC;? Robertson, an American Top Team fighter, has a strong Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu background and a 4-1 record. Her last three victories have come by submission â&#x20AC;&#x201D; all armbars â&#x20AC;&#x201D; in the first round. Now fighting in the American Fight Championship promotion, she holds the strawweight title and has agreed to put it on the line against Vorce. Vorce is ready for the rematch and the flurry of submission attempts that will surely come her way. She is hoping to walk out of there with a different result â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and more hardware. â&#x20AC;&#x153;She knows about me,â&#x20AC;? Vorce says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I know about her. We both need to be ready for anything.â&#x20AC;?
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM
KATIE MADDOX Chris Welbon Karateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s competitive team traveled to Orlando last weekend for the first AAU tournament of 2015. Among its many medalists was Katie Maddox, who won a bronze medal for kata in her first karate tournament ever. What was the competition like? It was me and 12 other kids. I had to do my kata three times. What was it like going in front of judges and a bunch of people and competing for the first time? It was great. What was your favorite part about the competition? All of the medals. How long have you been practicing karate? Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been doing it for 11 months. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your favorite thing about it? You get to learn things. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your favorite thing that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve learned so far? My kata. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a blue belt right now. When do you get your next rank? Probably today (Tuesday). What made you want to try karate? I wanted to learn how to defend myself, and work with other students. Do you play any other sports? Just karate. What do you like to do for fun when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not doing karate? I like to go on my computer and play games. I like to play Scrabble. Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your favorite athlete?
Mr. Welbon. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very good, and heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s understanding. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the best sensei ever. If you could meet anyone famous, who would it be? Meghan Trainor. I would probably sing with her. Where do you go to school? Springhead Elementary School. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your favorite subject? Reading. You get to read by yourself, and you get to read really good books. Do you have a favorite book? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Escape from Mr. Lemoncelloâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Library.â&#x20AC;? Whenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your next karate tournament? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in February. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m hoping that I can get a gold medal. If you could have any superpower, what would it be? To read peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s minds. If I can know what theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re thinking, I could probably give it to them.
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PLANT CITY
RAIN
(INCHES)
WEATHER
THURS. Jan. 22
0.00
FRI.
TEMPERATURES
Jan. 23
0.00
SAT.
Friday, Jan. 30 Saturday, Jan. 31 Sunday, Feb. 1 Monday, Feb. 2 Tuesday, Feb. 3 Wednesday, Feb. 4 Thursday, Feb. 5
Jan. 24
0.00
SUN.
Jan. 25
0.00
MON.
Jan. 26
HIGH 72 74 79 77 73 76 74
SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES
0.00
TUES.
SUNRISE Friday, Jan. 30 7:17 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 31 7:17 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 1 7:16 a.m. Monday, Feb. 2 7:15 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 3 7:15 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4 7:14 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 5 7:14 a.m.
Jan. 27
0.00
WED.
Jan. 28
0.00
JAN.
TO DATE
SUNSET 6:06 p.m. 6:07 p.m. 6:08 p.m. 6:09 p.m. 6:10 p.m. 6:10 p.m. 6:12 p.m.
MOON PHASES
Feb. 3
Feb. 11
STRAWBERRIES
1.78 (2014: 0.00)
LOW 48 56 60 56 58 59 54
SHIPPING POINT: Orlando
$12.90-14.90
YEAR
TO DATE 1.78 (2014: 0.00)
Feb. 18
Courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture
Feb. 25
, 3&
Diane Ritchart’s son, Kyle, loves trains. She calls her photo, “Waiting Patiently.” The Plant City Times & Observer and Grimes Hardware have partnered to host the I Love Plant City Photo Contest. Winners will have their photo featured and receive a $15 gift certificate to Grimes Hardware’s Strawberry Town Cafe! To enter, email your photo, along with a caption, to Editor Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com; subject line: I Love Plant City. Winners can pick up their prize at Grimes Hardware.
A SHADY CROSSWORD By Kenneth Holt | Edited by Timothy E. Parker
ACROSS 1 Flower stalk 5 Fitted within one another 11 Elbow’s site 14 Cavalryman’s sidearm 19 CBS eye, e.g. 20 Colorless, odorless gas 21 Female deer 22 Leave out in pronunciation 23 Four Corners state 24 Sourdough alternative 26 Some art class subjects 27 Certain editors 29 Fertilization goal 31 En ___ (as a big group) 32 Mideast export 34 Permanent location? 35 Social unrest 38 Home to Notre Dame 40 Fit for planting 44 Holding a grudge 45 Female helper of a sort 50 PC linkup letters 51 Miniature hopper 52 Admitting customers 53 Water-skier’s aid 54 Fast tawny feline 55 Overnight lodging house 56 U.S. Army group 60 Naval force 61 Won back 63 Hautboys 64 “Filthy” money 65 Beats by a hair 66 Former Pirate great Dick 67 Bolt, as of lightning 69 Trinket 71 “___, amigos!” 72 Makes more durable 75 Jeweler’s tool 76 Bushes with plumlike fruits 78 Rodent-spotter’s shriek 79 “Step ___!” 80 The Big Dipper, aka
3 4
6
7
82 83 84 88 89 91 92 93 96 97 100 104 108 109 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120
DOWN 1 Bit of defamation 2 “Bag” or “board” beginner 3 Cousin of “Heck!” 4 Figure in Islam 5 Certain salamanders 6 Community character 7 “Rocky” co-star Talia 8 Makes a doily, maybe 9 Dallas-to-Boston dir. 10 New entrant into society, briefly 11 Mideast’s Gulf of ___ 12 Sounds from a pride 13 Radio, TV, etc.
9
2
9
6
5 2
1 5
6
4 8
2
3
9
3 3
9
6
2
3 4
2
SUDOKU PACIFIC Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.
14 15 16 17 18 25 28 30 32 33 35 36 37 38 39 41 42 43 45 46 47 48 49 54 56 57 58 59 60 62 66 67 68 69 70 71 72
Portuguese misters Female former student ___ one’s time (wait) Idyllic Biblical spot Orchestrated silence Ancient item Island off the mainland Manila envelope fastener Bumbling simpleton Roth plan acct. Full of activity Nary a person Breakfast staple Oscar winner Sean Area between curbs Roquefort and Stilton, for two Less believable, as an excuse On the mother’s side of the family Carried by Choices for fencers “All You ___ Is Love” (Beatles) Alley rodents There are two in mathematics? Like some carpeting Sprightly dance, Frenchstyle Type of acid Kindle purchase Joke-filled tribute Jolly Roger and Union Jack, e.g. One way to become a parent Polish seaport “May the ___ be with you” Moon-related Imperfections Style of column Hit the ground Thousands of pounds
© 2013 Universal Uclick
73 74 76 77 80 82 84 85 86
Himalayan country Offerer of calls via Internet Arrid rival Snake “talk” Nutcase Qualified Lobster claws Fruit tree with purplish flowers (var.) “... pocketful of ___”
87
One billion years, geologically 90 Performed perfectly 92 Alaskan native 94 Kind of violin stroke 95 Try for an ace 97 Navigation hazard 98 Row of shrubs 99 Bowling lane button 100 Army beds
101 Formed like an egg 102 Erato or Urania 103 Middle-of-the-___ (moderate) 104 Some elephants or whales 105 Emerald Isle 106 Alias of H.H. Munro 107 ___ off (angry) 110 Most extreme degree 111 Make a little ___ long way
C RY P T O G R A M S 1. I GIU NVXXJNBF NOX RDT RJJBT DU CRJU RDT ADNT AJZS RVOUNDUX RDG SV XJS I VJC ZOZZF 2. I LGITS TUITE VIJ MILAKR I OWGP HUJALAOW IKM FGAREL NIMP VEU VIKLWM LU JWLLNW MUVK IKM RWL EALTEWM FBL EW SWHL UK RAOAKR EWG LEW
7
7
Charles’ ___ South American empire of yore Catch sight of ___-tac-toe Worker in a dry cleaner’s, sometimes Lambeau crowd-pleaser Affording beautiful vistas Decisive bout enders Alternative to “window” Elephant goad Cross or Bic Shoulder gesture Gilbert &amp; Sullivan creation Most impudent Small egg, to a biologist Electronic domestic appliances Highlands hillside It fires electric darts Mature 108-Across Hauling fee Resembling Gravity-driven vehicles Get married to Pig’s innards Novelist Bagnold
81
1 6
5
GBK-IGUBKM.
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