03.28.13 Plant City Observer

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Community rallies around Plant City’s Natalie Harrell.

Area anglers cast lines at annual Youth Fishing Derby.

Happy hunters hit fields for early egg hunt.

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Do you y Plant City? If so, get your cameras ready to show your love!

The Plant City Observer, State Farm Insurance agent Tony Lee and The Corner Store are partnering to launch the new I y Plant City Photo Contest.

Weekly winners will have their photo featured in the Plant City Observer and also receive a $10 gift certificate to The Corner Store! Submit your photos, with a caption, via email to Managing Editor Michael Eng, meng@plantcityobserver.com; subject line: I Love Plant City.

Good luck!

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FREE • thursday, MARCH 28, 2013

by Michael Eng | Managing Editor

by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

VisionPro to lease Plant City Stadium

young

Royals

VisionPro Sports Institute’s four USL soccer teams will call the stadium home through September.

+ Pregnancy center plans Walk for Life Advocates for the Pregnancy Care Center of Plant City will pound pavement during the center’s annual Walk for Life event next week.

Registration for this year’s event will take place at 9:30 a.m. April 6, at Plant City Hall, 302 W. Reynolds St. The walk will begin at 10 a.m.

This year, the center hopes to raise $20,000 to help purchase a new ultrasound machine.

For information, call the center at (813) 759-0886 or visit supportplantcitypregnancycenter.org.

The 2013 Little Miss Plant City Queen and court. Top: 2013 Little Miss Plant City Emma Showalter and Payton Talavera applaud as Giselle Gutierrez is named first maid.

The 2013 court was crowned March 23, at 45th annual Little Miss Plant City pageant.

+ Student earns spot at summer seminar Plant City High School junior Kellyanne Hurst will join about 2,550 other high school students from throughout the country at the Naval Academy’s 2013 Summer Seminar, in Annapolis, Md. Summer Seminar is a fast-paced leadership experience for rising seniors in high school.

Emma Showalter was emotional after being crowned the 2013 Little Miss Plant City.

Emma Showalter was crowned the 2013 Little Miss Plant City at the 45th annual pageant March 23, at Plant City High School.

Giselle Gutierrez was named the first maid, and Rylee Vanstonder, Payton Talavera and Amanda Astrike made the 2013 court. The five court members outlasted 51 contestants. The com-

petition included a stage routine and a question-and answer-session, with 15 finalists.

The Plant City Junior Woman’s Club, a non-profit organization that has been donating shoes and socks to local elementary schools since the 1970s, is the sponsor of the Little Miss Plant City Contest.

+ City set for 2013 Easter Egg Hunt Plant City invites happy hunters from ages 3 to 11 to the 24th annual City Wide Easter Egg Hunt.

This year’s free hunt will take place at 10 a.m. March 30, at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex, 2602 E. Cherry St. Participants should bring their own Easter baskets. For more, visit plantcitygov.com.

Rylee VanStronder made the court.

The outgoing court — Queen Daisy Duke, First Maid Kennedy Sapp and court members Avery Surrency, Camryn Go to PlantCityObserver.com for more photos from the pageant. Wineinger and Regan Messick — made their final walk before the new court members were announced.

INDEX Classifieds.......... 14

Fifteen years after the Cincinnati Reds left Plant City for Sarasota, the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World will once again be the home of a professional sports team.

At least through the end of September.

Plant City commissioners agreed March 25 to pursue a short-term lease agreement for Plant City Stadium with VisionPro Sports Institute Inc. VisonPro currently boasts four United Soccer League franchises, including a USL Pro squad.

The other teams include VisionPro’s squads in the PDL League (under 23), the Super 20s (under 20) and the W-League (women).

All four teams will play their home games in Plant City, something commissioners hope will translate into more dollars flowing into the local economy through hotel stays, restaurants and other travel necessities.

VisionPro will rent the stadium at $10,000 per month.

To convert the stadium from a softball field, the company has hired Turf Keepers to remove the existing clay area and replace it with appropriate sod and irrigation. VisionPro also will reconfigure the outfield fencing and add bleachers to the outfield, as well as temporary visiting-team locker room facilities. The company will manage concessions and also costs associated with matches, including police, fire rescue, striping and equipment.

SEE STADIUM / PAGE 2 Vol. 1, No. 38 | One section

Crossword........... 12

Obituaries..............9

Sports................. 10

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IN OTHER NEWS

• Southwest Florida Water Management District Government Affairs Program Manager Estella Gray accepted a proclamation from Mayor Mike Sparkman declaring April 2013 as Water Conservation Month in Plant City.

• The commission awarded a $194,099.30 contract to Central Concrete Products Inc. to construct the Mendonsa Road sidewalk from Alexander Street to Hunter Street.

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MIDTOWN UPDATE

Commissioners also made their first recommendation on what will become a cornerstone of the Midtown project.

The commission voted March 25 to pursue proposals for a destination-style park for Midtown. City officials had drafted three options — a simple greenspace, one that included a sidewalk trail and a third with a fountain or other feature. Commissioners opted to pursue the most elaborate — and at an estimate cost of $123,684, the most expensive — option.

“Since we’ve stepped this way (to develop a Midtown), why not do it right?” said Vice Mayor Mary Thomas Mathis. “(This option) is beautiful. It has nice pizzazz.”

The three plans were only offered as concepts. The city now will seek outside proposals for actual designs that could be implemented in Midtown.

Contact Michael Eng at meng@plantcityobserver.com.

Visit our site to see a rendering of the planned changes to the field. www.PlantCityObserver.com

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he anticipates that process will take at least three months.

VisionPro is interested in submitting a bid to become a long-term tenant of the stadium. The organization hopes to build a VSI international residential training academy, with three feeder satellite academy facilities in Tampa Bay. Commissioner Rick Lott, whose daughter, Ericka, is a soccer standout for Plant City High School, said he is familiar with the VisionPro organization.

“They sponsor lots of youth clubs throughout the Tampa Bay area, and it’s a feeder program to MLS,” he said. “It is my hope that this lasts longer than six months. At the very least, it’s another option to put something in the stadium that benefits Plant City.”

If VSI does not extend its stay in Plant City, it will cover the cost to convert the stadium back into a softball facility.

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Plant City Recreation and Parks Department Director Jack Holland and City Manager Greg Horwedel said they are pleased with the agreement.

“At $10,000 per month, we think this is a good bargain from our perspective,” Horwedel said.

Holland said VisionPro’s presence would not have any significant effect on the tournaments and events the city is scheduled to host this summer. Furthermore, the city still will be able to host its Fourth of July celebration at the stadium.

VSI had previously used Florida College as its home. The organization was in the process of examining other sites, but after those opportunities fell through, the organization contacted Plant City. It needs something quickly — VSI’s USL Pro team’s home opener is scheduled for April 13.

Director of Soccer Clay Roberts, a Plant City High School alumnus, said his organization is excited about the new partnership.

“This opportunity is great for us,” he said. “We’d love to be here. Soccer is a growing sport, and I graduated from Plant City, so I know this community well.”

This short-term lease will not affect the city’s current process of trying to find a permanent tenant or new owner for the stadium. The city currently is accepting proposals for the site, but Horwedel said

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THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2013

government

team spirit by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Cheering for

Natalie

The Plant City community has banded together to help Natalie Harrell win her fight against cancer.

BENEFIT When Katie Sparkman heard her good friend’s daughter had cancer, she felt she had to do something.

So Sparkman and another friend, Julie Cole, jumped on the “Team Natalie” bandwagon as some of her biggest fans. They created a fundraising event, Team Natalie Movie Night.

“We want to show Shannon (Harrell), who isn’t originally from here, what Plant City is all about,” Sparkman says.

“This is the benefit of living in a small town.

We support each other.”

“Natalie is like an angel on earth,” Sparkman says.

WHEN: 6:30 p.m.; movie starts at 7:30 p.m.; April 5 WHERE: Sparky’s Corporate Office; 702 Tillman Place DETAILS: Bring your lawn chairs and blankets for a special viewing of “Wreck-It Ralph.” All proceeds will go to Natalie’s medical fund. There will be favorite movie snacks, such as popcorn and candy, for sale. Face painting and raffle items will also be part of the festivities.

Raffle donations are still needed.

COST: $5 CONTACT: Katie Sparkman, (813) 2993901

One of Natalie Harrell’s favorite activities is cheerleading.

Pixy Stix aren’t exactly the breakfast of champions, but before a cheer competition day in January, that’s all that could revive 8-year-old Natalie Harrell.

As an All-Star cheerleader for Plant City’s Dance Carousel, Natalie, sporting sparkly eyeshadow and a perky ponytail, looked every part the spunky cheerleader. But, on this day, she wasn’t feeling it. She had been sick for months — first the flu, then mono. She couldn’t warm up but still wanted to compete with her teammates.

“That’s how strong this girl is,” instructor Lori Matta says.

Despite looking gray and tired, Natalie took the stage with her teammates and cheered like she never had before.

Three weeks later, Natalie was diagnosed with cancer — a malignant nongerminomatous germ cell on her brain. And in an instant, Natalie went from cheerleader to having an entire community cheering for her.

SEARCHING FOR ANSWERS

It was an accident that first sent Natalie to the hospital. In August 2012, she fell off a barstool in her family’s kitchen and landed flat on the tile floor, breaking her nose. “(It was a) quick trip to the (doctor) and a little glue from a plastic surgeon, and we were off to cheerleading practice,” mother Shannon wrote in her online CaringBridge journal.

Weeks later, the headaches began — headaches so fierce that they caused Natalie to vomit. But a trip to the neurologist revealed nothing.

In November, the family headed to Fort Myers for Thanksgiving. On the way down, Natalie began to run a fever. By the time they made it to their destination, the fever had spiked, and she was vomiting.

Severely dehydrated and lethargic, Natalie slumped into the ER to get a head CT scan, belly ultrasound, echocardiogram, chest X-ray and a painful spinal tap.

The diagnosis: the common flu.

After four days of fluids and Tamiflu, Natalie was headed home, albeit eight pounds lighter.

Natalie never recovered from the flu during Christmas.

“We left for Tennessee and hoped the vacation would get her up and around,” Shannon remembers.

But it didn’t.

And not even Santa or presents excited her. Instead, she spent her days sleeping.

THE DIAGNOSIS

When the family returned from vacation, they visited the doctor again.

This time, Natalie was diagnosed with mono. After losing two more pounds, she was sent to the gastroenterologist.

“My 53-pound, soon-to-be 8-yearold, active, full-of-life girl, was 39 pounds,” Shannon wrote.

The family returned to the doctor for an endoscopy.

“We walked from the office to the Children’s Hospital at St. Joseph’s and checked into our new home, fully expecting to get a scope done, fix whatever was wrong with her gastro tract

Courtesy photos

Natalie Harrell was able to meet Blake Shelton backstage when he came to Plant City to perform at the Florida Strawberry Festival. and be on our way,” Shannon wrote.

When doctors found no problem in her stomach, they sent the family to the neurology department for an MRI. During the scan, a technician told Shannon the radiologist requested additional pictures.

“My heart was in my throat,” Shannon remembers. “I knew that was bad news. I began praying, and crying and praying some more.”

The additional photos revealed the a golf ball-sized tumor in her brain.

She was scheduled for brain surgery the next morning, Jan. 30.

All her previous ailments were aptly diagnosed, but they had stopped the doctors from looking any further.

“It dropped me to my knees,” Shannon says. “I was hysterical.”

MIRACLE FLYER

3

Brain surgery comes with no guarantees, and the family had only more one night to spend with Natalie.

“We didn’t know if she would know us when she woke up,” Shannon says.

The five-hour surgery began at 7:30 a.m. Unfortunately, surgeons discovered the tumor was attached to too many vital structures in the brain to be removed, and they only could extract a few, small fragments.

But when Natalie emerged from surgery, she was still the same little girl. She was even talking to the nurses while they hooked up her IV. Natalie’s tumor consumes the

hypothalamus. It pushes on the pituitary gland and, now, is invading the optic nerve, threatening Natalie’s eyesight. Without the option of surgery, the family turned to chemotherapy.

THE FIGHT

Natalie has completed her second of six chemo treatments and is responding well.

With a nongerminomatous germ cell tumor, chemo has proven to be an effective treatment. The 10-year overall survival for a malignant nongerminomatous germ cell is between 70% and 80%, according to the National Cancer Institute.

With Natalie’s tumor, the tissue is not from the brain. Instead, while she was still a fetus, excess tissue from her ovaries was redirected to her brain. Once the tumor is gone, there is no chance of it recurring, because the initial tissue was foreign.

The Harrells continue to fight the tumor, which is “dying in the wrong direction,” putting more pressure on her optic nerve.

Still, Natalie has excelled past expectations in recent eye exams.

“She is the most incredible little girl,” Matta says. “It’s been very difficult without her here on our team.”

For now, Natalie is taking a break from class at Walden Lake Elementary and is being home-schooled.

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com.

Rep. Ross to host town hall meeting The meeting will be Thursday, April 4.

U.S. Rep. Dennis Ross will meet with constituents in his first Plant City town hall, April 4. Ross will listen to concerns, opinions and questions and then take time to respond and explain any issues.

“The first thing is to find out what the constituents want to talk about,” Ross said. “It’s important we do this as a listening session.”

Ross tries to do open town hall meetings twice every two months.

He held two in January in Temple Terrace and in Lakeland.

“As a Congressman, I’m supposed to reflect the will of the people and be related to the people I represent,” Ross said.

About two Ross weeks ago, Ross and his staff also conducted a telephone town hall from Washington D.C., reaching 11,000 by phone.

Prior to serving the 15th district, Ross served the 12th district.

Due to redistricting base on 2010 Census data, a little more than half of Rep. Gus Bilirakis’ old district fell in the redrawn 12th district. Before, the 12th district encompassed much of Polk County, parts of eastern Hillsborough County and a small piece of western Osceola County. Now the 12th district no longer includes Polk County.

The 15th district contained most of Brevard County south of Cocoa, all of Indian River County, most of Osceola County and a small portion of Polk County. The district also took in Kissimmee, Melbourne and Vero Beach. Now it includes portions of Hillsborough and Polk counties.

Ross’s first foray into politics was when he was active in student government at Lakeland Senior High School.

“It was something I wanted to do all my life as a kid,” Ross said.

“I don’t look at is as a career, I look at it as a chapter of my life — serving in Congress.”

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

If you go Plant City Town Hall WHEN: 5 to 6 p.m.

Thursday, April 4 Where: Commission chambers, first floor, 302 W. Reynolds St., Plant City

Bartow Town Hall When: 7 to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 4 Where: Polk County Administration Building, first floor, 330 W. Church St., Bartow

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Plant city observer

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survivOR stories

THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2013

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

relay for life by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Team ToMarrow continues tradition The team, captained by Plant City High School senior Nick Rodriguez, is in its second year participating in Relay for Life.

NRG performers Ellie Shouse, Bryson Keel and Marlee Arn

Survivors, caregivers enjoy annual dinner Cancer survivors and their caregivers were treated to a night of food and fun during the annual Survivors Dinner for Relay for Life March 25, at Plant City’s First Baptist Church.

In addition to food and fellowship, guests enjoyed a performance by NRG, raffle prizes and more.

Survivor Betty Dobias and Edward Dobias

Louise and Paul Cali are both survivors.

Linda Herman, Relay for Life chair, and Tina Buoni

Walking into the first captain’s meeting of last year, Nick Rodriguez felt out of his comfort zone. Not only was it his first year heading up a Relay for Life team, but also he was also one of the youngest people there.

“It was pretty intimidating going into the Relay meeting as the only teen in a room full of middle aged adults,” Rodriguez said.

“But everyone was so outgoing and passionate about what they were doing. Now, it’s kind of like another class.”

Rodriguez is a senior at Plant City High School — and a busy one at that. He was quarterback on this year’s football team, plays baseball and also is a member of the Civitan Club. But, between all his activities and studies, he somehow finds time to devote to Relay.

It was the story of his mother’s friend that first sparked his interest in Relay. She was diagnosed with cancer after having a baby.

“It really touched me hard,” Rodriguez said of the story.

Rodriguez also was looking for community-services hours to meet his graduation requirements and earn a Bright Futures scholarship to help pay for his tuition at the University of Florida.

“I didn’t want to do the runof-the-mill thing that everybody does — like volunteer at the food bank,” Rodriguez said.

So he decided to start his own Relay for Life team. Through his research, he found the Be the

Match Foundation, which connects patients with life-threatening blood cancers, such as leukemia and lymphoma, to a donor match for marrow or umbilical cord blood transplants.

He learned that just by swabbing the inside of a cheek, they can have someone registered with their marrow type.

“It’s just a neat thing that I didn’t know about and that I don’t think a lot of people know about,” Rodriguez said. “We just want to raise awareness about it.”

Fascinated by the foundation, the name of his team was born — Team ToMarrow.

Last year, representatives from the foundation set up a drive at Team ToMarrow’s tent. Team ToMarrow helped with the drive, putting together packets. With just four simple swabs of the mouth, the foundation was able to add about 80 donors to their registry.

In addition to the drive, Team ToMarrow has been fundraising all year, asking for donations and traveling to Tampa for the Be the Match 5K. The team has raised $5,000 in the past two years.

This year, Team ToMarrow has about 20 people on board. In addition to Rod r i g u e z ’s friends, h i s

HOW TO HELP

Stop by Team ToMarrow’s tent at Relay for Life. Their candy-inspired theme is “Team ToMarrow is on a swabbing spree.”

For more information about Be the Match, visit marrow.org.

younger sister, Deanna, and her friends are also on the team.

They plan to learn how to run the team, so they can carry on the tradition when they reach high school.

Another addition to the team is Dave Butcher and several of his family and friends. Butcher has been diagnosed with cancer and is looking for a marrow donor.

“We’re hoping we can help out his situation,” Rodriguez said.

“Our goal is to find him a match.”

Rodriguez encourages other young people looking to get involved in Relay or any kind of volunteer work as long — as it’s something they’ll love.

“Find something you have a passion (about),” Rodriguez said. “It makes you feel good about yourself — working to help improve the lives of others.”

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@ plantcityobserver.com.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2013

GOVERNMENT

5

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Plant City representatives meet Tallahassee lawmakers A contingent from Plant City and the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce traveled to Florida’s capital last week.

NEWSBRIEFS + Rat infestation closes kitchen at Plant City High The kitchen at Plant City High School was shut down March 25, because of a pestcontrol issue.

Hillsborough County Public Schools officials said the kitchen was shut down this week so a pest-control company can deal with a rat problem.

Details on the extent of the problem have not been released by the district. The pest removal is planned around the shortened week, because of Easter.

Until the problem is resolved, students will receive box lunches.

+ Crest science teacher wins Sondhein award A teacher from Strawberry Crest High School is one of seven recipients of the 2013 Kennedy Center/Stephen Sondheim Inspirational Teacher Award.

Science teacher William Ward will receive a $10,000 grant from the Washington, D.C.-

FACE TO FACE

The Plant City representatives met many lawmakers during their trip, including: • Rep. Ross Spano (R) • Wendy Hedrick, external affairs director to CFO Jeff Atwater • Rep. Dan Raulerson (R) • Ralph Lair, chief legal assistant to Speaker Will Weatherford • Tim Covet, chief aide to Sen. John Legg (R) • Chris Spencer, legislative aide to Sen. Jeff Brandes (R) • Rep. Mark Danish (D) • Agriculture Secretary Adam Putnam • Rep. Jake Raburn (R) • Sen. Tom Lee (R) • Sen. Janet Cruz (D) • Rob Johnson, legal affairs director to Attorney General Pam Bondi • Rep. Dana Young (R) • Reynold Meyer, director of Senate Committee of Transportation, Economic Development and Appropriations A new bill would grandfather in any impervious surface, even if pulled up, as long as it was replaced.

“It’s quite frustrating to deal with this year after year,” Horwedel said. “So frustrating.”

In the past, the city has tried to work with Switfmud. Now, Raulerson and Lee hope they can assist in changing the regulation.

“Everyone we met with seemed very supportive,” Horwedel said.

Horwedel also was curious about any changes made to the Florida Pension Reform to be able to plan for those that can potentially affect the city.

“It’s still too far away to see what will come of that,” Horwedel said.

Overall, the trip was a success.

“It was refreshing to meet with them,” Scott said of the legislators. “A lot of them are new and ready to go. They have a fire in their bellies. I hope they’ll do good things for the state of Florida.”

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com. based organization. He was nominated by former student Sara Abdel-Rahim. In her video nomination, Abdel-Rahim spoke about how Ward helped her overcome the bullying she faced as a Muslim attending SCHS. “Early in my life, I realized two things made me happiest,” Ward told the Kennedy Center. “They were learning and helping people. I considered careers in medicine and education. After experiencing both areas, it became fully apparent to me the classroom was my ‘place.’

My students have allowed me to be happy with my ‘place.’”

The awards, named after Broadway composer Stephen Sondheim, publicly recognize specific teachers by spotlighting their extraordinary impact on the lives of students. The awards celebrate the teaching profession, the important role of teachers in society and seek to inspire others to pursue the profession.

Nominated by students they once taught, these former students’ stories exemplify the power one teacher has to inspire others and transform lives.

Nominations for the 2014 cycle of the Kennedy Center/Stephen Sondheim Inspirational Teacher Awards will be accepted starting Sept. 3, 2013. For more, visit kennedy-center.org.

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When a small group making up representatives from Plant City and the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce met with lawmakers in Tallahassee last week, they had two things on their mind: agriculture and the stormwater bill.

The group included City Manager Greg Horwedel, chamber Chairman Jim Scott, chamber Board Trustee Gary Pike and his wife, Tina Pike. They spent two jampacked days, meeting about every 20 minutes with a plethora of representatives, including Rep. Dan Raulerson, Sen. Tom Lee and Agriculture Secretary Adam Putnam.

“We’re always trying to keep Plant City in the forefront,” Scott said. “Especially (because) we’re here, in-between Lakeland and Tampa. As far as Hillsborough County goes, Tampa gets a lot of the limelight.”

With strawberries accounting for 46.6% of the total value of commodities in Hillsborough County in 2011, the group was especially interested in talking with representatives about agriculture.

In recent years, the U.S. tomato industry has suffered, because of an influx of Mexican tomatoes. This is driving the price of domestic tomatoes down. With more strawberries being imported from Mexico, Scott said he’s worried about the future of Plant City’s staple crop, as well.

“We want to let them know that agriculture is the top of mind,” Scott said. “I’m not a farmer, but I do sell trucks. Farmers buy them, workers buy them, shippers buy them. There’s a chain. Our community could really struggle.”

Another issue the group addressed was a new stormwater bill working through Tallahassee. Acres of cracked concrete slabs have been sitting vacant for years just south of historic downtown Plant City off Collins Street. The slabs sit in the future home of Midtown, a redevelopment plan that would put cozy shops, upscale apartments and green parks in the heart of the city.

Work on Midtown started in 2007 but came to a standstill, because of a law regulated by the South Florida Water Management District stating that retention ponds must be placed in areas where any impervious surfaces, such as the concrete slabs, are removed. Swiftmud has remained steadfast to the law, despite the city’s downtown stormwater drainage system, which has been in place since the 1950s.

Plant city observer

PlantCityObserver.com

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Artistry Salon and Spa plans cut-a-thon event

recognition by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Stephanie Karr, from The Artistry Salon and Spa, was inspired after learning about Breanna Coleman, 12, who suffers from osteogenesis imperfecta.

When Stephanie Karr first heard the story of Breanna Coleman, she felt like it was the story of her life. Both Karr and Breanna have osteogenesis imperfecta, a rare disease that causes their bones to break. Also known as Brittle Bones, Breanna has broken 37 bones from activities as simple as pulling a Band Aid off her arm.

Karr has been luckier with the disease. She has only broken three bones. Regardless, Karr has lives every day with caution. Just like Breanna.

Identifying so closely with Breanna, Karr decided to organize a cut-a-thon April 1, at the Artistry Salon and Spa. In addition to haircuts, the event will feature a bake sale and raffle prizes, including restaurant gift certificates and a $300 prize basket with a flat iron, spa services and beauty products.

More than 20 hairdressers are volunteering for the event. Focus 4 Beauty students also are joining in to do nails, prep and shampoo clients, and more.

“This is our gift,” Karr said.

“This is what we love to do. We’re just so excited for the event.”

All proceeds will go to help Breanna with her medical bills. To date, she has had 14 surgeries, and her most recent surgery will help straighten her back.

“Everything in her story just

CUT-A-THON WHEN: 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.; April 1 WHERE: The Artistry Salon and Spa; 1505 S. Alexander St. CONTACT: For raffle tickets, contact Stephanie at (813) 777-5306. hit home with me,” Karr said.

Karr broke both her femurs before age 3. Still, Karr dared to play like the child she was — even rollerblading. But at 11, she broke her hip. From age 3 to 21, Karr was a patient at Shriners Hospital for Children. Now, Breanna makes that same trip from Plant City to the Tampa hospital.

Coleman has been receiving pamidronate IV treatments to help strengthen her bones. Although the Shiloh Charter School student is confined to a wheelchair for now, she enjoys everything a normal 12-year-old does.

“It helps to put a face to the cause,” Karr said. “We just take for granted the things we have. It’s so good to give back.”

Breanna will be present at the event. Karr can’t wait to meet her.

“I hear she’s such a little diva and so upbeat,” Karr said.

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com.

Amber Jurgensen

Mayor Mike Sparkman surprised Civitan Club President Pat Pogue with a special collage featuring her as the grand marshal in this year’s Grand Parade.

Mayor shows appreciation for Civitan Club president Members at the Civitan Club of Plant City’s meeting last week were buzzing with excitement because of one special guest: Mayor Mike Sparkman.

Sparkman had called Civitan President Pat Pogue and asked her if he could attend the meeting, but he wouldn’t say why he wanted to come.

Pogue decided to make an event out of the occasion. She prepared a speech to thank everyone who helped out with the Florida Strawberry Festival’s Youth Parade and invited high school Civitan Club members to the meeting.

“I wanted the young people to have an opportunity to share and talk with each other and have a chance to listen to the mayor,” Pogue said.

Busy putting everyone else first, Pogue had no idea that Sparkman’s appearance was all about her.

Pogue was grand marshal of the Florida Strawberry Festival Grand Parade and has been responsible for putting together the Civitan Youth Parade for years.

To thank her for her hard work, Sparkman presented her with a framed picture collage of her as grand marshal. The pictures were taken by Police Chief Steve Singletary.

“This is a special lady,” Sparkman said. “She’s been so involved with Civitan, the parade and this community.”

“I was so stunned,” Pogue said after the presentation. “I couldn’t believe it.

He pulled one over me.”

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Although the main reason Mayor Mike Sparkman came to the meeting was to recognize Pogue, he also briefed the club on the Florida Strawberry Festival and new things happening in the city.

• Florida Strawberry Festival.

Sparkman reported that there were two record breaking days on the last weekend of the festival. On March 9, more than 88,000 tickets were scanned. The following day, over 99,000 tickets were scanned.

Altogether, about 526,000 people visited the festival this year.

• Railroad Viewing Platform. To draw more tourists to Plant City’s historic downtown, the city wants to put in a railroad viewing platform south of the Train Depot. The city already has secured a $25,000 grant from CSX. It is applying for another grant of $50,000. The whole project is estimated to cost $175,000.

“We’re not going to use city money,” Sparkman said.

Attention students, parents, alumni and friends!!!

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have a Dr. Brenda Dukes • Chiropractic BlessedPhysician | 752-2524 • 2401 Walden Woods Dr. • Plant City, FL 33566 Easter The doctor of the future will give no medicine but will interest his patients in the care of the human frame, diet, and in the cause and prevention of disease. -Thomas Edison

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Plant city observer

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2013

FAMILY TRADITION

7

by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

First Baptist creates Easter eggs-citement at drop Hundreds gathered at the Plant City’s First Baptist Church’s South Campus off March 23, for the church’s an-

Uziah Marshall, 2, rushed over to his mom after collecting one of the last eggs in the section.

nual Egg Drop Festival.

More than 5,000 goodie-filled eggs were dropped from a helicopter in four different sections

of the field. Children, separated by age groups, then raced into their designated areas to grab as many eggs as they could.

Nevaeh Chamorro, 3, filled her bag up quickly.

Braxton Tenney had a blast collecting eggs.

Logan Williams, 7, had fun collecting eggs. Left: Maximus Brueggeman’s bag was overfilled with eggs.

meet-and-greet

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

a New PageaNt is in

1st Annual

BlueBerry PageaNt

April 13, 2013

Robert and Felice Willaford welcome families to their home each Easter.

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Easter Bunny hops into Plant City

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Next Live Registration: Saturday, March 30th 1-5 PM

For the seventh year, Robert and Felice Willaford last week opened up their home — or rather, caboose — for children in celebration of Easter. Families toured the 1964 Seaboard caboose, which sits in their front yard.

They also took pictures with the Easter Bunny and were entertained by Miss Bunnie the clown.

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Deadline for Registration:

April 1 at 5 PM Tickets for event will also be available for purchase.

A portion of the ticket sales will go to Morgan Pierce’s Foundation, Child Advocate for Cancer.

FoR MoRe iNFoRMATioN go to keelandcurleywinery.com/blueberryfestival/royalty/ or call Julie Hasting 813-695-1783 or Brigittia Long 813-393-7442.

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Chloe Smith met the Easter Bunny for the first time.

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You. Your Neighbors. Your Neighborhood.

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PLANT CITY

Plant city observer

THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2013

high-flying fun

by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

“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

Founding Publisher / Felix Haynes General Manager and Managing Editor / Michael Eng, meng@PlantCityObserver. com Assistant Managing Editor / Jess Eng, jeng@PlantCityObserver.com Associate Editors / (Community) Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@ PlantCityObserver.com; (Sports) Matt Mauney, mmauney@PlantCityObserver. com Advertising Executive / Veronica Prostko, vprostko@PlantCityObserver.com Advertising Coordinator / Linda Lancaster, llancaster@PlantCityObserver.com Accounting Manager / Petra Kirkland, pkirkland@PlantCityObserver.com Advertising-Production Operations Manager / Kathy Payne, kpayne@ yourobserver.com Advertising-Production Coordinator / Brooke Schultheis, bschultheis@ yourobserver.com Advertising Graphic Designers / Peter Carlson, pcarlson@yourobserver. com; Monica DiMattei, mdimattei@ yourobserver.com; Marjorie Holloway, mholloway@yourobserver.com; Luis Trujillo, ltrujillo@yourobserver.com; Chris Stolz, cstolz@yourobserver.com

(

CONTACT US

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

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TO ADVERTISE Call Veronica Prostko at 704-6850.

SEND US YOUR NEWS

We want to hear from you. Let us know about your community events, celebrations and family member achievements.

To contact us, send your information via: Email: Michael Eng, meng@plantcityobserver.com

Kent Phillips, 6, worked hard on his project.

Christian Walsted, 12, was given ride in this prop plane by pilot Phillip Herrington.

Planes, Trains, Automobiles soars at Plant City Airport

Nolan Lopez liked his red balloon sword.

Below: Andrew MacDonald loved looking at all the remote-controlled planes.

Thousands of transportation fans flocked to Plant City Airport March 23, for the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s annual Planes, Trains and Automobiles event.

The event gave attendees an up-close look at model train sets, remote-controlled and full-sized airplanes and classic and exotic cars. The event is held in conjunction with the Plant City Airport and Tampa International Airport.

Remote-controlled aircrafts could be seen flying throughout the day, and 150 kids had the chance to go up in one of the fullsized planes. The Plant City K-9 Unit and Plant City Fire and Rescue hosted demonstrations, along with members of the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office. Boy Scout and Cub Scout troops from Plant City and surrounding areas were able to earn aviation and searchand-rescue badges at the event.

fish tale by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

Annual derby reels in young anglers The weather stayed clear, and the overnight rain had the fish biting at the 36th Youth Fishing Derby March 23, at the pond behind the Randy L. Larson Softball Four-Plex.

This is the 17th year the Plant City Recreation and Parks Department has held a youth fishing derby, allowing parents and children of all skill levels to come out and enjoy a morning full of fishing.

At the conclusion of the event, awards were given in multiple categories, including first fish caught and most overall weight caught.

Another derby is planned for this fall.

Braylon Black, right, caught this 2.8-pound catfish.

Nolan Smith, 10, showed true sportsmanship by lending Black one of his rods after Black’s broke shortly after the event began.

Mail: The Plant City Observer, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100A, Plant City, FL 33563

The Plant City Observer LLC

Shad Stevens, 10, enjoyed a morning of fishing.

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Publisher of the Plant City Observer and PlantCityObserver.com

President / Felix Haynes Directors / Nate Kilton, Ed Verner, Matt Walsh

110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100A Plant City, Fla. 813-704-6850 www.PlantCityObserver.com ©Copyright Plant City Observer LLC 2012 All Rights Reserved

David Staddler, 10, reeled in this tilapia.

Antasha Thompson, 8, was thrilled with this catch.

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2013

9

OBSERVEROBITUARIES Daniel Glenn Futch, 57, of Plant City, died March 23, 2013.

Born Feb. 21, 1956, in Plant City, he was the son of the late Danny and Marlene Morrison Futch.

He was a great cook and a member of Shiloh Baptist Church, where he was a Sunday School teacher and was training to be a deacon.

Survivors include his cousins, JoAnn Boothe, Wayne and Harold Morrison, Sue Rowell, Patsy Campbell, and Bill, Lee, David and Ray Futch; uncles, Raymond and Robert Futch; and aunts, Edith Ramona and Marie Futch.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Gary Futch.

Contributions may be made to the Shiloh Baptist Church’s General Fund.

Online condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Richard C. Holt

Richard C. Holt, 83, of Plant City, died March 22, 2013.

Born Oct. 6, 1929, in Cairo, Ga., he was the son of the late Henry Holt and the late Lula Williams Holt. His beloved wife, Betty Jean, preceded him in death in August 2012, just prior to their 60th wedding anniversary.

Mr. Holt served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army, for which he served in the Korean War. He had been a furniture salesman, working for H&H Furniture and Badcock. Later, he became a truck driver driving for himself, at R.C. Holt Trucking, and for Florida Favorite Fertilizer. He was a member of Shiloh Baptist Church.

Survivors include a son, Richard C. Holt Jr.; grandchildren, Jackye Holt and Richard Lee Holt; and sister, Margaret Turner.

Online condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Harold Johnson

Harold Johnson, 80, of Dover, died March 23, 2013.

Born Nov. 18, 1932, he was the son of the late Homer and Ruth Hendrix Johnson. He was the husband of Tiny Barlow Johnson.

He was the owner of Plant City Awning and Aluminum, starting the company in 1961. He was a member of the Eastside

P werful

Baptist Church of Dover, a scoutmaster and a member of the chamber of commerce.

He was a founding board member of the Dover Turkey Creek Volunteer Fire Department, where he was the deputy chief and chief. He held a private pilot’s license and enjoyed flying remote-controlled airplanes. In 1967, he went back to school to finish his education and received the Student Leadership pin upon graduation.

Survivors include sons, Larry Harold Johnson (Kimberly) and Martin Wade Johnson (Yolanda); brother, Donnie Ray Johnson; one grandchild; and two greatgrandchildren.

Online condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com.

‘Dollie’ Elvira Martha Knowell Mansell

“Dollie” Elvira Martha Knowell Mansell, 92, of Turkey Creek, Dover and Plant City, died March 22, 2013, at Melech Hospice House.

She was born April 6, 1920, in Edison Junction, Fla., to the late Luther (L.D.) and Edithmae Burtz Knowell. She was the wife of the late Bert Mansell.

Mrs. Mansell was an active member of Turkey Creek Baptist Church. She was a volunteer missionary and social worker.

She was a Godly woman who loved the Lord and wanted everyone to know and love Him like she did.

Survivors include her sons, Ronald Mansell (Brinda), Dennis Mansell (Fran) and Lwane Mansell; daughter, Betty Mansell Tower (Bill); sisters, Elizabeth Schoonover, Lillie Mae Godwin, Edith Louise Mansell Jones and Vera Beaty (Otis); grandchildren, Teresa Bailey (Mark), William Tower (Jennifer), Ronnie Mansell Jr., Donald Mansell (Sheila), Lisa Mansell, Brian Mansell, Dennis Mansell Jr., Tawanna Mansell, Shawn Mansell (Mandy), and Alisha Strickland (Rodney); and 15 great-grandchildren.

Services were held March 26, at Turkey Creek First Baptist Church, Plant City.

If desired, donations may be made to Turkey Creek First Baptist Church; The Gideons International, Plant City Camp, P.O. Box 1469, Plant City, FL 33564; or Lifepath Hospice, 12470 Telecom Drive, Suite 300, Temple Terrace, FL 33637.

Online condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com.

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Sunday, March 31st—Easter Sunday 7:00AM Sonrise Festival Worship w/Holy Communion 8:15AM Easter Breakfast 9:15AM Easter Egg-Stravaganza 10:30AM Festival Worship w/Holy Communion 5:30PM Spanish Worship w/Holy Communion 6:30PM Spanish Easter Egg-Stravaganza

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Plant city observer

THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2013

by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

PCHS tennis team sets sights WE ARE HERE TO HELP!!! on another trip to regionals

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Class 4A District 5 Tournament WHEN: April 2 and 3 WHERE: Wiregrass Ranch, with some matches at Meadow Pointe I season because of a back injury but has recovered and is set to play in the district tournament.

The Heysek brothers teamed up as Plant City’s No. 1 doubles team for the first time this season Monday against Jesuit. Harrison and Spencer, seniors and two of a set of triplets, won the match over Jesuit’s No. 1 doubles team 8-0 in the first set. Both are committed to play collegiate tennis.

Plant City defeated district foe Brandon 7-0 Tuesday to complete its regular season district schedule. The Raiders faced Strawberry Crest Wednesday and will host Leonard Thursday.

The PCHS girls team is 8-3 entering their regular season finale against Leonard Thursday, and coach Doug Jones’ team is hoping to make a second consecutive trip to regionals.

“It looks to be a three-team race between Wiregrass, Newsome and us,” Jones said.

“It’s going to be a tight battle.”

The Lady Raiders No. 1 player, Taylor Ballantine, has been battling a back injury, and Jones said he’s not sure how much she will be able to contribute. The No. 2 through 4 seeds will be key, Jones said.

Contact Matt Mauney at mmauney@plantcityobserver.com.

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The Plant City boys tennis team hopes to continue its postseason streak next week, when they compete in the Class 4A District 5 tournament.

The Raiders have finished as runner-up at districts for the past two years, and that is where they hope to end up again this year.

“Our goal this year is to make sure we finish second,” said PCHS coach Dale Rice, who has coached the Raiders for 28 years.

That goal is because frontrunner and No. 1 seed Wiregrass Ranch is all but a lock to take the district championship again.

“They beat us last year, and they are a much stronger team this season,” Rice said.

“They have a chance to make a run at a state championship. We just have to make sure we get that second spot, because if you get second, you advance, and that’s what we’re trying to do.”

Plant City has fallen in their opening region match the past two years, but Rice said that outcome could change, given the right matchup.

“We’ve got to get past districts first,” he said.

The Raiders have had another successful season, going 3-1 in district play. Their one loss was not to Wiregrass Ranch (Plant City hasn’t faced WRHS this year), but to Newsome in the third match of the season. Plant City dropped that match 4-3 but didn’t have its two top players — brothers Harrison and Spencer Heysek — in the lineup.

The Raiders also had to start some young and inexperienced players at other spots because of other injuries and absences.

Harrison missed several matches at the beginning of the

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PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2013

11

smash mouth by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

The Sentinels are a run-first team.

The Sentinels comprises members of law enforcement, corrections, probation/parole officers, firefighters, paramedics/EMTs and members of the military from five counties around Tampa.

Tampa Bay Sentinels host home opener in Plant City The Sentinels defense had three interceptions on the day, with two from Dan Parvin and a third by linebacker Forest Boles.

Ben Williams scored a touchdown on a 30-yard run, and running back Aljay Wren tallied the other score for the Sentinels.

The Sentinels will play their final home game April 6, against the Orlando Guardians.

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Both teams featured strong running games.

The Tampa Bay Sentinels made their full-contact debut in Plant City March 23, at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex.

The Sentinels, a public safety football team comprising first responders and military from around the Tampa Bay area, fell to the Cleveland Warriors 14-13 on a two-point conversion with less than a minute to play.

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Plant city observer

PlantCityObserver.com

athlete of the week

THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2013

by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

keven long Plant City High senior Keven Long has established himself as a leader on the surging Raiders baseball team. Long entered this week with a 0.84 ERA and a 4-1 record on the mound. He has recorded 29 strikeouts and, outside of one home run, he hasn’t allowed an extra base hit this season. At the plate, Long is hitting over .400, with seven RBIs. He is committed to play for Three Rivers College, in Missouri, where he plans to major in physical therapy.

How has the season been going so far?

As a team, it’s been pretty good. Coming off of three coaches, this coach (Mike Fryrear) has set us up pretty nice. We’re coming together now. We had a rough start, but it’s getting there.

What has been the biggest difference in that change?

We have a lot of structure this year. It’s a lot stricter, and it’s really helping us focus and get the wins that we need to get.

What has contributed to your success on the mound so far this season?

Our pitching coach has really worked with me following through, because I’ve had issues following through and getting the ball down. I’ve also developed a new pitch — a slider — that has really been helping me out the last couple games.

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How long have you been pitching?

I didn’t start pitching seriously until I was about 14.

Edited by Timothy E. Parker

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What are some areas of hitting that you’ve tried to improve this year?

Learning to hit the ball the other way. Getting my hands through the zone and being able to work on both sides of the field.

When Three Rivers offered you, what did you find out about them?

I looked them up to see if they were as good as they said they were, and they are. So that was good to see. I also looked up what I want to major in, and they offer that.

The dorms are nice, and I have a friend going up with me.

So it’s looking pretty good.

00! 00! by Oscar Lunford

O B S E RV E R C RO S S WO R D

1. H B U F

What do you enjoy about pitching?

I just enjoy sitting people down. It’s fun getting out there and shutting people down.

ACROSS 1 Bar mitzvah officiator 6 Title of respect in colonial India 11 Type of dancer in the ‘70s 15 Lingerie item 18 Turn swords into plowshares, e.g.

19 Having no company 20 Bit of creativity 21 Archaeological find, perhaps 22 Student’s burdens 24 Impossible to mess up 26 First name in Bond portrayers 27 Baldwin of “The Departed” 28 Polynesian New Zealander 30 Motorcycle maker 31 Grammy-winning Winans 33 Very narrow margin 35 Like an epee 37 Tumult 40 Tire for a heap 42 ___-equipped 43 Score ending in “all” 44 Cuts open, as a living worm 46 It moves tape through a machine 50 Ivory tower inhabitant 52 “Dear me!”

54 Canton in Switzerland 55 Robust, healthwise 56 Battery terminal 59 Early inhabitant of Britain 60 Sign for the superstitious 61 “And a lot of others,” in four

63 66 68 70 73 74 76 77 78 79 81 84 87 88 91 93 95 98 99 100 101 103 107

108 109 110 112 114 118 120 123 124 125 126 127

Pocket Full of ___” letters 128 Brings to a close “Do ___ others as 129 Acknowledge ...” tacitly Baron’s superior 130 This snake counts?

Stationed Play billiards To whom a Muslim dOwn prays 1 “Broom-Hilda” Banished Hindu creator Myers 2 “Utter” conclusion?

Killed, in Judges 3 “Who Let the Dogs Army group Out?” group: ___ Annoying buzzer Men Mia of soccer fame 4 Peyton Manning is Fresh out of the one shower 5 “Methinks,” online London subway 6 Weasel lookalike “Addams Family” 7 Balm base 8 Bootleg boozes cousin 9 It looks good on Seedless mandarin paper orange 10 Sully Glassy 11 “Junk begets junk” Graffiti or litter, e.g. computer acronym Hospitals for 12 Having a scent recuperation 13 Earth’s surface, Baseball arbiter, for hypothetically short 14 Clumsy blockhead 15 Trailblazing Daniel Historic 16 Crucifixes introduction?

17 They might precede Mendes and Leone bravos A bit formal 21 Fairy-tale bridge “The Wind in the tenders Willows” character 23 Teary What George 25 “Mission: Washington Impossible” character couldn’t tell 29 Mountain ridge “Muy ___” 32 Gutter locale Act the yes-man 34 Consumed Raccoon relative 36 New York football “Spenser: For ___” team (Urich series) 37 Salt Lake City’s Fly lightly and home rapidly 38 Font selection Actor’s asset 39 Kind of agent They’re in a grocery 40 Puerto ___ 41 “... and make it store’s hot aisle fast!”

Covetousness 45 Diesel on a set “Star ___” (Shatner 46 Beany’s sea-serpent show) buddy Bars between 47 Turbulent wheels 48 Big fight site “Be-Bop-___” 49 Final Beethoven symphony (Gene Vincent hit) 51 Imitate Ellery Agatha Christie’s “A

Queen 53 In ___ (form of research) 57 Trilling twosome 58 Slaughter the slugger 60 Limestone formation 62 Org. that approves toothpastes 64 Final amt.

65 “Black gold” bloc 67 Dog food container 68 “Casablanca” star, affectionately 69 Cousin’s mom (var.)

70 Maryland or Delaware 71 Does some alterations 72 It gives a hoot 75 Generous one 77 Messy 80 Source of an artist’s inspiration 82 “Housewife” Longoria et al.

83 Make public 85 Behinds, in London 86 Catch sight of 88 Brownish horse 89 French revolutionary JeanPaul 90 Like Bishop Tutu 92 Barely cooked 94 Rapid 96 “East” on a grandfather clock 97 Climber’s support 100 Amped up 102 Encompass or envelop 103 Track transaction 104 “. . . the ___ of defeat” 105 Hidden treasure 106 One struck Chicken Little 108 French seaport 111 Inquires 113 Swedish chain 115 Hardly muted 116 Run in place 117 Pre-Soviet royalty 119 Prom ending?

121 Tic-tac-toe loser 122 Air traffic agcy.

CROSSWORD_032813

Plant city observer

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2013

13

SHOW ME THE MAUNEY

March truly IS madness

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105946

I’ve always said the NCAA men’s basketball tournament is the greatest setup in sports.

Football and baseball always will be two of my favorite sports, but the annual March tournament brings more excitement than any bowl game, World Series or Super Bowl.

There’s no tournament quite like it; 68 teams have a chance to win a national championship. Teams such as George Mason Butler and Florida Gulf Coast get their 15 minutes of fame and have their school websites crash because hundreds of thousands of people are Googling to find out where their schools are located after they become a tournament “Cinderella.”

To save you the trouble, George Mason is in Fairfax, Va., and Butler calls Indianapolis home.

The tournament has its fair share of emotions, but that is what makes it great.

Every year I fill out a bracket. Or two. Or, in the case of this year, eight.

Yes, eight.

Every year, I think my brackets are fullproof, just as someone who purchased a ticket to a Powerball lottery with an enormous payout.

And every year, without fail, my brackMATT ets are busted, yet I keep coming back.

MAUNEY The more time and research I put into my brackets, the worse I do, but every year, I try harder for that perfect bracket.

It will probably never happen, and if it does, it probably won’t be the one that wins me a $1 million. But that’s OK, because it’s not about the final bracket or the prizes that come with it; it’s about the ride.

There always will be upsets, and with a field that large, you never know when or where those upsets will occur.

Teams that win aren’t always the better team, just the better team that day. Match-ups mean everything, yet there is no exact science to predicting outcomes.

Still, I spend every year trying to come up with the winning formula, only to be beaten by friends and colleagues that pick winners based on school colors or the cuter mascot.

This year, I was doing quite well. My upset picks went according to plan, and the teams I had going deep in the tournament took care of their first-round opponents. At one point, I was ranked 10th in the nation in one bracket contest and ranked in the top 100 in the world on ESPN’s bracket challenge.

Then Harvard won, Wisconsin lost and FGC knocked off Georgetown (whom I had reaching at least the Elite Eight in all my brackets), icing the cake of my busted bracket.

As my frustration mounted, my television remained on.

I didn’t flip the channel, and my bracket app on my phone remained open.

As frustrating as it may be when the teams you pick lose, it’s those games that make the tournament so great. There is no such thing as a sure thing in sports, and that is especially true with this tournament. This truly is March Madness, and I love every minute of it.

After having their brackets busted, some may call it quits and stop following the tournament. Not me. I simply avert my attention to the underdogs, even if it’s one of the teams that sent my bracket into a downward spiral.

Everyone loves a good underdog story, and they don’t happen more often than in the NCAA tournament. The New York Giants spoiling the New England Patriots’ perfect season or Boise State beating Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl always will top the list of great upsets, but there’s nothing better than a school few have heard of knocking off a college basketball powerhouse.

Initially, I was infuriated when Harvard knocked off New Mexico, my surprise Final Four pick in one of my brackets, but I couldn’t stay mad at them. You’re talking about a bunch of kids — really intelligent kids — who love the game of basketball and are playing without athletic scholarships.

A funny thing happened while I watched the Florida Gulf Coast-Georgetown game.

You could get a sense early in the second half that FGC might be putting on the glass slipper. Watching them play, I was very impressed. They just flat-out beat Georgetown and were the more athletic team on the court.

Sunday, FGC took out San Diego State to advance to the Sweet 16. This is a school that has only been eligible for the tournament for two seasons. It is the youngest Division I school in Florida, founded in 1991.

Friday, the team will face the University of Florida, a school that was founded 144 years before the Fort Myersbased school.

For the brackets I have yet to destroy, I have Florida advancing to the Elite Eight, but I can’t say I’ll be disappointed if FGC’s Cinderella season continues.

Whether you don’t follow college basketball or are a selfproclaimed bracketologist like myself, I would suggest watching this game. It exemplifies why this month and this tournament are so great.

Thursday, March 28, 2013

Computer Services RUSHING TO SERVE, INC. On-site computer repair, networking, installations, consultations, off-site remote backups.

Faithful, dependable service since 1989.

813-754-1366, www.rushingtoserve.com See our ad in the Service directory

ADVERTISE YOUR MERCHANDISE with the total value of all items $200 or less in this section for FREE! Limit 1 ad per month, 15 words or less. Price must be included next to each item. No commercial advertising or garage sale advertising Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks.

Call Toll Free: 1-877-308-5642 Email ad to: classified@yourobserver.com (Please include your name and address) Or mail to: The Observer Group P.O. Box 3169 Sarasota, Fl 34230 bowls.

Set

of

4.

CROSBY CONSTRUCTION SERVICES, INC. David Crosby, dcrosby520@yahoo.com 813-679-0096.

See my ad in the Service directory

Home Services HOUSEMASTER Home Inspections Done Right Since 1979.

Robert & Michelle Southard 866-931-2350 E-mail: east-tampa@housemaster.com www.east-tampa.housemaster.com See our ad in the Service Directory

$40.00.

TABLE SAW, Sears: on rolling stand, $50. Left handed golf clubs with bag, $50. 813-719-6384.

Cemetery Plots/Monuments CEMETERY LOTS for sale, Durant area.

Reasonably priced. Call 813-737-1012 for more information.

SEPTIC PROS Septic Tank and Grease Trap Pumping Septic System Maintenance and Installation 813-727-6905 Dianne@Septic-Pros.com

Auto Service BREWINGTON’S TOWING & RECOVERY www.brewingtonstowing.com 813-754-TOWS(6300) See our ad in the Service directory

See our ad in the Service Directory

Professional Services MINUTEMAN PRESS THE FIRST AND LAST STOP IN PRINTING. Mike Arndt, Owner

Landscaping & Lawn Service GREEN EAGLE, INC. Landscape and Lawn Maintenance. Plant/Tree Installation and Removal, Mulch Sod Removal and Installation, Mowing, Fill Dirt & Cleanups. Call 813-967-6879. See our ad in the Service directory.

Legal Services GREGG W. HOOTH, P.A. Attorneys & Counselors At Law Business, Labor & Employment Law. E-mail: ghooth@gregghooth.com 863-667-8027 See our ad in the Service Directory

RAIL TOWN Building Services. Commercial Cleaning. Chuck Sullivan, 813-390-1851, www.railtownbuildingservices.com See our ad in the Service Directory.

Classifieds

Professional Services NATALIE SWEET, LLC., REALTOR. The Sweet Team, Keller Williams Realty. Cell: 813-758-9586 E-mail: nsweet@kw.com See ad in the Service Directory.

Your source for local Classifieds

ATTORNEY

HOUSE CLASSIFIEDS LP # 108051

2013

This week’s Cryptogram answers 1. What is the favorite snack of worn out tourists visiting the magnificent Paris cathedrals? The lunchpack of Notre Dame.

2. This is quite a strange quirk: In prison, you can watch TV and play games. At work, you get fired for watching TV and playing games!

CROSSWORD_ANS_032813

CLEANING

107706

ACCOUNTING

FIND IT!

JEANNIE SOOS. Licensed Massage Therapist.

Relaxation and Deep Tissue Therapeutic 813-753-8965, by appointment. MA27301 See ad in the Service Directory.

You never know what you’ll find in the classifieds!

ONSITE ACCOUNTING, INC. Lizzette Sarria, CFE Certified Fraud Examiner. www.on-siteaccounting.net 813-764-9516 See my ad in the Service Directory

in the

This week’s Crossword answers

WantReserved to findSpace a great deal on something LP you’ve Reserved Space always dreamed of?

Computer Services

WALDEN LAKE ART & FRAME. Preserving Memories & Bringing Your Art To Life. Michael Kidde, Owner, waldenlakeartandframe.com See our ad in the Service Directory.

Massage

Find Treasure!

Cleaning

813-719-2111 1701 S. Alexander St., Plant City plantcity@minutemanpress.com www.plantcity.minutemanpress.com See our ad in the Service Directory

Lizzette Sarria, CFE, CertiďŹ ed Fraud Examiner

GREGG W. HOOTH

www.on-siteaccounting.net

lizette@on-siteaccounting.net

4798 South Florida Avenue P.O. Box 214 Lakeland, Florida 33813

Telephone: (863) 667-8027 Email: ghooth@gregghooth.com Website: www.gregghooth.com

Cathy Kudlinski

(WY s $OVER &, s WWW !BSOLUTE!UTO2EPAIR NET

49

00

MENTION THIS AD FOR DISCOUNT SPECIAL (Regulary $7999)

CAC1816446

(813) 754-TOWS (813) 754-6300 (813) 719-7738 FAX

107726

www.brewingtonstowing.com

107148

LV4383

www.gouldsac.com

COMPUTER

On-site computer repair, networking, installations, consultations, off-site remote backups

Get a FREE 2nd Opinion BEFORE a Major Repair or Purchase

813.752.1970

mtocleantampa.com

Cleaning Roof Ăœ Cleaning

107709

Winter Tune-Up SPECIAL

STOP

813.571-1993

Services

ĂœCarpet/Upholstery

AUTO SERVICE Scott Kudlinski

$

Free Estimates!

107240

AIR CONDITIONING

107705

ACCOUNTING, INC.

104 N. Evers Street, Suite 101 Plant CIty, Florida 33563 813-764-9516 813-764-0028 Fax

Business, Labor & Employment Law

Meeting ALL your cleaning needs! ĂœPressure Washing ĂœMaid/Janitorial

302 E. CALHOUN ST. PLANT CITY, FL 33563

Faithful, dependable service since 1989 OfďŹ ce 813.754.1366

www.rushingtoserve.com rts@rushingtoserve.com

Ken Rushing President 107727

PYREX OLD 813-737-2614.

Home Improvement/ Remodeling

Interior Design PAR INTERIORS - FULL SERVICE DESIGN. Patricia Rogers, Owner/ Decorator. 813-754-1567 www.parinteriors.com See ad in the Service Directory

107001

Items Under $200 For Sale

THE PLANT CITY OBSERVER Plant city March observer Thursday, 28, 2013

Classifieds 15A 15

www.yourobserver.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2013

COMPUTER

HOME SERVICES

PlantCityObserver.com

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Walden Lake Art & Frame

Preserving Memories & Bringing Your Art to Life Michael Kidde

Septic Tank and Grease Trap Pumping Septic System Maintenance and Installation

Shaun Bryant

Dianne@Septic-Pros.com

107729

Owner

813-727-6905 phone 813-719-2855 fax

3201 Jerry Smith Rd. Dover, FL 33527 • www.SePTIc-PRoS.coM 108263

CONSTRUCTION

1514 S. Alexander St. Suite 104 Plant City, FL 33563 813.752.7460 waldenlakeartandframe.com

107708

Owner

107729

Dianne Bryant

Owner

INTERIOR DESIGN

Crosby Construction Services, Inc. David Crosby 107702

Wayne T. Miles Director of Operations www.The AlphaAgency.com

Insured

CONSTRUCTION

General Contractor, CGC 045134 Roofing Contractor, CCC 052495

Scott Rigsbee Vice President

Call us for a quote on your next construction project

Voice - Txt (863) 808-0341 State Licensed A 2900318

REALTORS

LANDSCAPING & LAWN

Natalie Sweet

Natalie Antonia Sweet LLC

Cell: (813) 758-9586 Fax: (813) 719-6300 Email: nsweet@kw.com www.AnotherSweetSale.com

106999

s #/--%2#)!, s 2%3)$%.4)!, s ).$5342)!,

1643 Williamsburg Square Lakeland, FL 33803 107724

KAL-MAR CONSTRUCTION, INC.

108277

813-679-0096 dcrosby520@yahoo.com

The Alpha Agency

Professional Investivations

Office (813)241-4219 / Cell (813)310-7748 Herb Padgett

Cell 813.967.6879

Perry Electric & Maintenance Inc.

3807 Cason Road, Plant City, FL 33566

106995

The Observer Service Directory Call 1-877-308-5642 to reserve your space.

FLOORING

Cell (863) 934-8347 Fax (863) 709-8307

There’s only 1 way...the Right Way!

REMODELING/HOME IMPROVEMENT (813) 753-8965

By Apointment MA 27301

PACK & SHIP Giresh Sharma

We Specialize in Installing:

Licensed & Insured...All work Guaranteed

Owner/Operator

Ph: 813-764-9878 Fx: 813-764-9888 pakmail623@gmail.com

raymond@1wayenterprises.com

HOME SERVICES

Cathy Byrd

Your Historic Restoration, Redevelopment & (813) 288-9335 Zoning Specialists (813) 293-4663 President

106996

7OOD s 4ILE s #ARPET s ,AMINATE s 6INYL 4RAVERTINE s -ARBLE s 4ILE 3HOWERS s "ACKSPLASHES

110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 204 Plant City, FL 33563 MM 27085 107710

Certified Flooring Sales Consultant Master Flooring Mechanic Owner

Each office independently owned and operated

DeaD on TargeT

MASSAGE

RAYMOND RIVERA

KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY 1607 Alexander St., Plant City, FL 33563

107725

Email greeneagle@tampabay.rr.com www.greeneaglegrassing.com

www.pakmailtampabay.com

2505 Thonotosassa Rd Plant City, FL 33563 Publix Shopping Center

www.InnovativeRestorations.com

106998

ELECTRIC

107720

srigsbeekalmar@tampabay.rr.com

108259

FL License #HI1060

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

1701 S. Alexander St., Suite #105 Plant City, Florida 33566 plantcity@minutemanpress.com www.plantcity.minutemanpress.com

Sell your service with success.

Advertise in Plant City Observer’s Service Directory ACTUAL SIZE

115

$

00

Every 4 weeks!

107002

107719

Fax: 813-704-5190 Email: east-tampa@housemaster.com www.east-tampa.housemaster.com

Owner

813-719-2111

Call us toll free 877-308-5642

ACTUAL SIZE

199

$

00

Every 4 weeks!

SAVE 20% off thE rEgulAr pricE

with a 12-week commitment

LV5212

866-931-2350

Mike Arndt

107699

Robert & Michelle Southard

Franchise Owners / Inspectors, RMCC Home Inspections, LLC

PlantCityObserver.com

Plant city observer

THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2013

108120

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