04.22.16 PCTO by Plant City Observer

PLANT CITY TIMES &

Observer

PCHS athlete takes friend with Down syndrome to prom. Sports, page 12

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. VOLUME 3, NO. 42

FREE

•

FRIDAY, APRIL 22, 2016

The 12-foot reptile is still loose in Walden Lake. See page 3.

Seven schools will participate in a sign language concert at Strawberry Crest High School this month.

YOUR TOWN

Funeral director awarded Tammy Spurlock has been hard at work — and her company has noticed. On Monday, April 18, Spurlock, the funeral director at Wells Memorial Funeral Home and Event Center in Plant City, was honored with the 2015 Circle of Excellence Award by Dignity Honors. The award is one of the top honors awarded by the company. Spurlock has worked at Wells for three years and is a first-time recipient of the award. “It’s exciting,” Spurlock said. “It’s a top honor.” Spurlock was congratulated by her colleagues, including General Manager Verna McKelvin, Market Director Peter O’Connor, South Florida Managing Director Steve Miller and Human Resources Director Gloria Rodriguez. Spurlock’s success was celebrated with a surprise luncheon and cake at the funeral home.

EMILY TOPPER STAFF WRITER

ilence is a sign of

Photo by Emily Topper

Hannah Swafford, Kiersten Bass, Kaitlyn Kramar, Jennifer Caldwell, Jenny Plummer and Matthew Harvester sign the word “family.” The students picked a theme of friends and relationships for Strawberry Crest’s presentation at the ASL Extravaganza.

Earth Day

students’ hard work in Robin Schwarz’s classroom at Straw-

berry Crest High School. The end of school is fast approaching, and her students are studying for final exams, with laptops open and papers spread across the desks. They are sit-

DID YOU KNOW?

Sign language is a conceptual language, and many of the signs are based on what a person is feeling or trying to convey. Because of this, signage varies. Students at SCHS, for example, learned to sign “believe, don’t stop,” when learning sign language for the Journey classic “Don’t Stop Believin’.” The language also has its own grammar structure.

ting still except for their hands, which move at a rapid-fire pace to convey words, thoughts and emotions to one another.

Residents make the world go round. Page 8

SEE PAGE 3

Little Miss Competition hits 48th year Organizers are inviting former queens to attend the event April 30. ABBY BAKER STAFF INTERN

File photo

It’s always an exciting moment when the queen is announced among court members.

2015 Little Miss Plant City Queen Raylynn Thompson will be handing her crown to a new queen during the 48th annual Little Miss Plant City competition Saturday, April 30.

There will be 30 contestants competing to be part of the 2016 court. Members take part in local events, such as Relay for Life, Empty Bowls and the Florida Strawberry Festival. The Plant City Junior Woman’s club has hosted the competition for its almost 50-year run, and club treasurer, Racquel Sturgis is confident that the cause has remained intact. “It’s been a staple fundraiser for the club for a long time,” Sturgis said. “It’s not a beauty pageant, it’s a longstanding tradition.”

The fundraiser, averaging $5,000 a year, was created to buy socks and tennis shoes for underprivileged elementary school students. While the club donates shoes to 14 area schools, one school is randomly selected every year to get special attention. This year it was Walden Lake Elementary School. “We get very connected to one school a year,” Sturgis said. “It’s a hands-on project.” SEE LITTLE MISS PAGE 9

WHAT’S HAPPENING

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, APRIL 22, 2016

WEEK OF APRIL 22, 2016

“I’ve got all the confidence in the world that the WLCA is going to make this community a competitive place to live for children and families.” — Bob Hunter, former Walden Lake Community Association president

SMOOTH RIDE Local roads will receive infrastructure improvements thanks in part to an FDOT grant. This summer, road improvements will begin on Vermont Street, located adjacent to Jackson Elementary School. The design plans, created by local firm Boggs Engineering, are 90% complete. “Originally it was a totally failed street,” City Engineer Michael Schenk said. Construction will begin the week of June 10, when students are out for summer

Armed robbery suspects arrested Nine days after Michael Beson was killed in an armed robbery attempt at the Mobil gas station on Wheeler Street, the second suspect in connection with the case has been arrested. Al’kwaun Ty’relle Nakiss Dixon, 18, was arrested Sunday, April 17. Xavier Quesean Smith, 19, was arrested Sunday, April 10. Both were transported to Orient Road Jail. Beson, 67, was a snowbird from Michigan. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective Chad Rader at 813-757-9200.

Double-homicide suspect arrested A man was arrested in connection with the death of a Dover couple found in a shed at their home off McIntosh Road. Michael Herald, 48, was charged with first degree murder for the homicide of John and Nancy Engelhart. Both were in their 70s. Herald was the couple’s handyman. He was found driving their stolen Ford Explorer in Kentucky. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office was notified Friday, April 15, that Herald was arrested in Hazard, Kentucky. He was arrested after he left a county park while driving the stolen Explorer. He was taken into custody without incident.

hree students hope their SkillsUSA video will inspire others to join their school’s cosmetology program. Kaylee Franklin, Sarah Shannon and Rebecca Handley have made it their mission to recruit students. For many people, the cost of beauty school can be a burden, but aspiring cosmetology students can catch a huge break with Plant City’s in-house program. They’ve sent the video to Tomlin and Marshall middle schools, hoping to convince incoming freshmen to get involved. “We have a program here at Plant City that teaches girls and guys that you can have this career straight out of high school,” Shannon says.

“It’s really awesome.” The video was produced for the upcoming SkillsUSA competition, which asks such students to connect what they do with the American spirit. The students must split their work into three pieces for the competition: career and outreach, community service and patriotism and citizenship. The SkillsUSA statewide competition will be held from Sunday, April 24, through Wednesday, April 27 at the Lakeland Center. It will consist of PCHS and schools from six regions throughout Florida. Beyond the video, PCHS will send 21 students to states for various other competitions, including skills competitions and a Family Feud-esque cosmetology quiz bowl.

break. Improvements to the street include adding a new drainage system to the road and resurfacing the road from Baker Street to Calhoun Street. For more on road improvements visit Plant CityObserver.com.

Silent Rail Tired of hearing train horns while shopping or eating in Historic Downtown? The City of Plant City is looking into establishing quiet zones, a section of a rail line where locomotives travel through public crossings without the sounding of horns. The city is one step closer with a $165,000 FDOT grant. The city applied for state funding on Feb. 29. The grant will cover half the cost to add safety improvements for quiet zones. QUIET ZONES: n Must be at least one-half mile in length n Require multiple rail gates, including four-quadrant gates, gates with medians and gates at one-way streets n Require flashing lights at rail gates n Must be approved jointly by CSX, FDOT, the City of Plant City and the Federal Railroad Administration

The City is looking to establish quiet zones in Midtown and Historic Downtown. Railroad crossings at Collins Street, State Road 39 and Wheeler Street will need improvements. Improvements will be installed by a CSX contractor.

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, APRIL 22, 2016

Gator still swimming in Walden Lake The alligator that attacked a maintenance worker on April 6 has yet to be caught. EMILY TOPPER STAFF WRITER

It's been over two weeks since Eddie Evans, the community landscape contractor for the Walden Lake community, was attacked by an alligator.

Evans was trimming bushes along the water in Walden Lake Park Wednesday, April 6, when a 12-foot gator got ahold of his boot, dragging Evans into the water. Evans used his keys to hit the alligator on the head and escape. Though a trapper with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Conservation Commission has been out to the area every other day, the gator has not yet been caught. The Walden Lake Community Association's board of directors has

urged residents to use caution in the area, especially if they have small children or pets. The WLCA advises against feeding wildlife. "As far as we know, right now (the alligator is) staying in this lake," former WLCA President Bob Hunter said at the community's annual meeting. "The gator trapper is out there trying to catch him in different locations." This past week, the WLCA ordered 20 "beware of alligator" signs to be placed around Walden Lake. So far, 12 have been installed, including some at

the water's edge. The trapper has noticed a few other gators in the area, ranging from 4 to 6 feet in length. The primary focus remains on capturing the gator that attacked Evans. Contact Emily Topper at etopper@ plantcityobserver.com.

‘TIS THE SEASON Photo by Emily Topper

Twenty signs that warn of the alligator have been ordered to be placed around Walden Lake.

JAN.

FEB.

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

COURTSHIP BEGINS

JUNE

MATING TAKES PLACE

JULY

AUG.

OCT.

NOV.

DEC.

EGGS HATCH

FEMALE DEPOSITS EGGS

“ There’s a connection between the deaf and the hearing.”

SEPT.

— Selena Vang, ASL student

SIGN LANGUAGE EXTRAVAGANZA FROM PAGE 1

IF YOU GO

Schwarz’s students are practicing American Sign Language. On Tuesday, April 26, Schwarz’s students will host the 2016 ASL Extravaganza at Strawberry Crest, a countywide initiative that promotes both the ASL language and the inclusion of the deaf and hearing-impaired communities.

ASL EXTRAVAGANZA 2016 When: 6 to 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 26; doors open at 5:45 p.m. Where: Strawberry Crest High School, 4691 Gallagher Road, Dover Participating Schools: Blake, Durant, Hillsborough, Middleton, Plant City, Strawberry Crest and Tampa Bay Technical Cost: Free

SIGN THEM UP

The annual ASL Extravaganza involves students from seven schools around Hillsborough County performing a sign language concert. Music and lyrics are played in the background, and students silently sign along to the song. This is the second time Strawberry Crest will host the event, after previously hosting it in 2011. This year, ASL students jumped at the opportunity to hold the event. “I think we’re a good location, off of I-4,” Schwarz said. “We’ve always had a good number of students participate.” Schwarz noted that the schools in East Hillsborough County, especially, have a big turnout for the event. “The students here, at Strawberry Crest, have always shown a strong commitment to the program and the language,” Schwarz said. “They’re singing the songs in an attempt to share the language, but also to allow their families and friends to understand what they’re doing.” Strawberry Crest offers three class levels for American Sign Language, with students in the third level belonging to the ASL honor society. Next year, the school is planning on bringing back a fourth ASL level. The students in Schwarz’s higherlevel classes are mostly seniors and will do a special sign performance of Five for Fighting’s “100 Years.” Other Strawberry Crest students will be performing songs related to friendship and relationships. All participating schools, Schwarz said, pick their own themes before coming to the event. “I think it’s a great opportunity to share what our students are doing inside the classroom,” she said. “We try to pick songs that are fun.”

CREST CARES

While teaching, Schwarz reminds her students to look at sign language as a minority language and not some-

Photo by Emily Topper

Crest students and their ASL teacher, Robin Schwaz, sign the word “Chargers.” Strawberry Crest will be hosting an ASL Extravaganza with seven schools from Hillsborough County in April.

ALPHABET

BY THE NUMBERS 70 million: the number of deaf people across the globe who use sign language as their first language or mother tongue 500,000: the number of deaf people in the United States who use ASL as their natural language 28 million: the number of Americans that have some type of hearing loss

EMILY TOPPER STAFF WRITER

Dan Orrico was appointed the new president of the Walden Lake Community Association’s board of directors on Monday, April 18. Orrico was nominated for the position by Ray Page and seconded by Rich Glorioso. Orrico faced no opposition. This is Orrico’s first time as president, and he was initially elected to the board in April 2015. After former Vice President Dave Sollenberger resigned to move out of state, Orrico was appointed vice president. At the April 18 meeting, Sharon Philbin was named the board’s new

“With Bob’s aggressive agenda, we took on some tough issues this last year, and we were very effective as a board in addressing them. All the decisions made on agenda items were the board’s, and were passed in accordance with the WLCA documents. None of the decisions made by this board were made solely by Mr. Hunter.” — Dan Orrico, WLCA president

vice president. Alicia Powell was voted secretary, and Heather Updike will be treasurer for another term. Jan Griffin was appointed parliamentarian. The board thanked former president Bob Hunter for his work over the last year. “Although the board did not agree on everything, we discussed and debated all agenda items fully prior to voting,” Orrico said. “Once the board made a decision, we moved forward.

Contact Emily Topper at etopper@ plantcityobserver.com.

Sources: World Federation of the Deaf, National Center for Health Statistics, Start ASL

WLCA appoints new officers Dan Orrico was named president four days after the WLCA election,

thing that is only used by the deaf or hard of hearing. “We don’t look at it as a disability point,” Schwarz said. “ASL is a concept language. You have to look at ... the concept behind what’s being said. You find people that are deaf anywhere, everywhere.” Though the sign aficionados at Crest have invited members of the deaf community to their extravaganza, it won’t be the students’ first time interacting with them. Many of them come across the deaf and hearing impaired at their part-time jobs, in service organizations and in the community. “Since they are a minority ... they see who the other people are who care about them. There’s a connection between the deaf and the hearing,” Selena Vang, one of the higher-level ASL students, said. The chance to meet students who share their same passion for the language and the deaf community has gotten the Crest Chargers excited about the event. “I am happy that we’re hosting it, because we get to introduce schools,” ASL student Kiersten Bass said. “We get to do the creative side of it and make it more our own.” Ultimately, both Schwarz and her students hope that guests take something away from the extravaganza — whether it’s a newfound appreciation for the language or the desire to learn more. “I hope to attract new people to the program,” Schwarz said. “If somebody walked out knowing a sign, I think that would be extremely cool.”

I would say Bob (Hunter) set a very aggressive agenda as president of the WLCA, and I have very big shoes to fill.” “He (Hunter) worked at it seven days a week,” board member Ray Page said. “Mr. Hunter did not get the credit he deserved for the job he did. He gave it everything, believe me. He was a good president.” As the new president, Orrico is focused on making sure the community is competitive with the new

ELECTION RESULTS The election for the Walden Lake Community Association’s board of directors was Thursday, April 14, at Plant City Church of God. Bob Hunter, former president, was not re-elected. Ray Page: 529 votes Rich Glorioso: 474 votes Alicia Powell: 447 votes Bob Hunter: 364 votes

neighborhoods being planned in north Plant City, including Varrea and North Park Isles. “I want to continue to focus the board on preserving the values and amenities of the homes in Walden Lake and to execute the maintenance of Walden Lake common areas,” Orrico said.

IN OTHER NEWS

n The WLCA is deferring to the polo field committee the idea of creating temporary parking passes for guests of Walden Lake who use the field to

attend events, such as birthday parties or Little League practices. The polo field committee will discuss passes and likely report back to the board at the monthly meeting in May. Temporary passes would keep guests’ vehicles from being towed. n The WLCA is considering a forensic audit to be done spanning multiple years and multiple WLCA boards. The WLCA board of directors will discuss the need for such an audit in an executive session before making a decision. “It is important for this community, our newest members on this board and the board members to follow us that everyone can have confidence in the board,” Vice President Sharon Philbin said. “This board should be complimented for taking on the tough issues and insuring that if any mistakes were made in the past, they are not repeated. This community deserves an association that they can trust and be proud of." Contact Emily Topper at etopper@ plantcityobserver.com.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, APRIL 22, 2016

ATTENTION ALL PLANT CITY RESIDENTS:

Citywide Runoff Election FOR PLANT CITY COMMISSION • GROUP 1

MAY 3 T U E S D A Y

Early voting Friday, Saturday April 29-30

May I count on your vote to become your next City Commissioner? I’m an accountant…I believe in accountability.

I’ll be an “open door” Commissioner. Our City operates under “sunshine laws” and so will I…meaning you can expect to see me more often out and accessible in the community than behind a desk at City Hall.

I’m passionate about economic development.

Proper economic development means quality jobs.

Done well, economic development can bring high-paying long-term jobs to Plant City. Done poorly it can kill our potential. And right now we’re in a race for prime opportunities with Tampa and Lakeland. Which is why we need experienced leadership right now to grow Plant City.

We often hear about economic development in terms of new construction or productivity. But it’s really about people. It’s about your ability to provide for your children, to buy a home, or to send your kids to a good school. Economic development elevates our quality of life and together helps us provide for the less fortunate.

I’ll address the racial elephant in the room.

Let’s balance job growth with community life.

Government isn’t always the solution.

Every opportunity we create for business investment must be balanced by how it will preserve our quality of life. With a decade of experience in Planning and Economic Development, I know first hand the dynamics of growing communities like Plant City. And wow, do we have a great future!

We can only move forward when we move together. I’ll work to lessen misunderstanding and conflict in our communities and to ensure that every citizen – and especially our youth – has both a stake and a responsibility in our future together.

I’ll continue Plant City’s partnership with non-profit groups and service clubs to address the heart and soul needs of our community. As a citizen you are not a customer, you’re an owner…and government is only the expression of our collective will together. More often than not, the best ideas come from the people who must live with the solutions. That’s where I’ll listen most closely.

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

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West of Fort Myers, past the shopping malls, gas stations and fast food restaurants, is a place constantly shifting, and yet, frozen in time. Cayo Costa is a barrier island off the coast of southwest Florida, an hour by ferry from the hamlet of Bokeelia, accessible only by boat. It is a state park, one of 161 in our great state, and this one has camping, cabins for rent, miles of empty beaches, hiking trails, plenty of wildlife and native vegetation but no electricity, hot dog stands or hot water. This is one place where you don’t want to forget anything. To get there, several concessions offer daily round-trip transport for around $45, camping gear included. We took the Tropic Star ferry, which takes you past Little Bokeelia Island (population, two caretakers). It was previously owned by Charles Burgess, of the dry-cell battery fame (Burgess Battery Company eventually became part of Duracell), though it recently sold to the highest bidder for $14.5 million. Once on Cayo Costa we were greeted by a lovely New Hampshire couple who weren’t sure if they had discovered paradise or purgatory. They had started a six-week campground host position in March, and the spring weather quickly descended into summer, bringing with it the trifecta of heat, humidity and human blood-suckers. The couple operated the shuttle, ferrying camping equipment, coolers, air mattresses, umbrellas, lanterns, and everything essential to surviving — and then some. While some go to Cayo Costa to hunt shells, escape the city or run away from life for a while, our group came to see the native habitat. I had been to Cayo Costa 20 years earlier and encountered the removal of the Australian pines that were dominating the island at that time. Although they provided terrific shade, they were an exotic species

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that crowded native plants, taking over. It was thrilling to see the transformation of native trees, such as the gumbo limbo and sea grape, growing to 30 feet tall and shading campsites that used to be surrounded by Australian pines. Some massive stumps still remain as stark reminders of their past reign, like footprints from a past empire. The exposed west coast is windswept and sparsely populated by sea oats and railroad vine, but as you travel inland, you encounter dense growths of cocoplum, myrsine, wild coffee, wax myrtles, cabbage palms and necklace pods, all growing on the remains of old sand dunes. You can see areas where the waves washed overland in storms, depositing their salt in shallow areas. The prickly pear cacti were in full bloom with their bright yellow blooms covered with beetles seeking pollen. Coral bean were triangular spikes of tubular red blossoms, resembling Asian structures. Moving further east you enter a pinewoods forest with slash pines, oaks and the healthiest poison ivy I have ever encountered. If I were to live on the island, this is where you would find me. The island had been inhabited long before it became a park. The cemetery attests to human settlement and the “Quarantine Trail” gives clues to the islands past life. One grave is marked Captain Peter Nelson, died Sept 7, 1919, age 80 years. “After life’s fitful fever, he sleeps well.” Apparently, he too, was fodder for the mosquitoes, no-see-ums and chiggers. Approximately 20 fishing families lived on Cayo Costa in the early 1900s, where they established a school, post office and grocery store.

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Top: Sea grape Above: The grave of Captain Peter Nelson said, “After life’s fitful fever, he sleeps well.” Below: Prickly pear cacti

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

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

SOCIAL INSECURITY 2600 block of Highland Avenue. Petit theft. Officers responded to an area in reference to a reported theft. Complainant stated that, sometime after 8:30 a.m., her Social Security debit card had gone missing from her purse, and she was unable to find it.

had taken a vehicle registration, an ID card and change from their vehicle.

APRIL 9

APRIL 7

MUTED 2720 block of Wilder Reserve Drive. Vehicle burglary. Officer responded to a residence in reference to a reported vehicle burglary. Complainant stated that unknown suspect(s) stole $1,200 in stereo equipment from his truck.

HIGH TIMES North Park Road/Sansone Boulevard. Possession of marijuana. Officer made contact with a suspect, who was found to be in possession of marijuana. Suspect was arrested.

APRIL 11

JEWEL THIEF 2600 block of James L. Redman Parkway. Grand theft. Officers responded to a store in reference to a reported theft. Complainant stated that assorted jewelry, valued at $1,375, had been stolen from a display case.

BARBER SHOP BANDIT 1800 block of James L. Redman Parkway. Petit theft. Officer responded to a barber shop in reference to a reported theft. Complainant stated that unknown suspect(s) had stolen his Central Pneumatic 125 psi air compressor, valued at $200.

SKETCHY SHED 2100 block of West Granfield Avenue. Petit theft/criminal mischief. Officers met with complainant, who stated he noticed damage to the door of a shed on the back of the property. The damage, which had happened over the past week, included missing light bulbs from the shed’s outside light fixture.

LOOSE CANNON Multiple locations. Multiple charges. Officers responded to a traffic crash investigation, regarding a reported hit and run at the 200 block of West Alexander Street. A suspect was arrested and charged with reckless driving and leaving the scene of a crash with property damage. The suspect was later arrested twice on separate occasions: first at at the 2600 block of James L. Redman Parkway for battery on two employees at a business, and then at the 300 block of North Alexander Street for battery on a medical professional.

APRIL 8

WINDOW SHOPPING 1100 block of Robinson Road. Vehicle burglary. Officer responded to a residence in reference to a reported vehicle burglary. Complainant stated that unknown suspect(s) broke the rear window to his truck, entered it and stole $1,000 in cash. LICENSE AND REGISTRATION, PLEASE 3300 block of West Baker Street. Vehicle burglary. Officer met with complainant at Plant City Police Department regarding a vehicle burglary report. Complainant stated that unknown suspect(s)

CHUMP CHANGE 610 block of North Maryland Avenue. Theft. Officers responded to a business in reference to a reported theft. Complainant stated two suspects had been damaging newspaper machines

TOOL TIME 4405 Business Lane. Business burglary. Officers met with complainants, who stated that unknown suspect(s) had stolen hand tools, electric tools and car parts from a business.

UNDER PRESSURE 200 block of East Baker Street. Business burglary. Officer met with complainant, who stated that unknown suspect(s) had stolen a pressure washer from a business.

and stealing change from them. Officers were able to locate and arrest the suspects, one of whom was a juvenile.

CAUGHT IN THE ACT 200 block of East Reynolds Street. Stolen vehicle. Officers responded to an area in reference to a reported vehicle theft attempt. Three juveniles were caught trying to steal a red Lincoln MKS sedan, and all three were arrested.

APRIL 10

BRINGING UP THE PAST Oak Street/Mobley Street. Criminal mischief. Officers met with complainant, who stated that he had seen swastikas spray-painted on signs near an elementary school.

APRIL 11

NOT ON FIRE 1200 block of East Renfro Street. Burglary/grand theft. Officer re-

FRIDAY, APRIL 22, 2016

sponded to a school in reference to a report of theft. Complainant stated that, over the weekend, unknown suspect(s) entered a bus that was parked on the school’s bus ramp, set off a fire extinguisher inside and then stole the extinguisher. FERRIS BUELLER’S DAY OFF 1110 block of Crystal Terrace North. Loitering/prowling/resisting arrest without violence. After being flagged down by citizens, officer noticed a suspicious person running through the back yards of several residences. Suspect was caught and arrested. HOLD THE PHONE 220 block of West Alexander Street. Vehicle burglary. Officers responded to a plaza in reference to a reported vehicle burglary. Complainant stated that unknown suspect(s) entered her 2000 Cadillac Escalade and stole the HTC cell phone she had left in the vehicle.

APRIL 14

WHY THE WIPERS? 400 block of South Gordon Street. Criminal mischief. Officer met with complainants, who stated that unknown suspect(s) had broken the windshield wipers off of two vehicles. Additionally, one of the vehicles had its windshield broken, and dirt was found near the gas tank of one vehicle.

We asked: what is your biggest pet peeve?

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Romario Hernandez, 10

Elijah Emert, 11

Mikael Sours, 9

Jacob Grady, 11

Brittany Zamudio, 10

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“My cousin Evin always is getting mad at me. Like really, really mad.”

“When someone kicks the back of my desk.”

“My little brother … we have separate game systems, and I tell him to not play a game that I’m working on, and he does it anyway.”

“Well, I live in a foster home, and my roommates are always moving my stuff around.”

“My little cousin always wants to play with us. But it’s only girls.”

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, APRIL 22, 2016

Nancy Fryrear

813.758.2493

204157

Nanfry@kwrealty.com

Each Keller Williams Realty Office is Independently Owned and Operated

Photos by Justin Kline

The Earth Day Festival had something to offer for guests of all ages.

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Thursday- 3pm Saturday - Noon, Preview 1 Hr. before NO RESERVES

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Monday - Thursday 10am-2pm

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including pictures of items on this week’s auction!

ome Plant Citians celebrated Earth Day early with a festival Sunday, April 17. The event was held at Plant City Commons Community Garden near Hillsborough Community College for an afternoon of food, education and drumming. All proceeds from the $5 dinner sales will be put into the development of the garden.

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THIS YEAR’S EARTH DAY THEME IS FOOD RECOVERY. n About 95% of the food we throw away ends up in landfills or combustion facilities. n In 2013, we disposed more than 35 million tons of food waste. n Once in landfills, food breaks down to produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas which contributes to climate change. n Two ways to help: donate untouched food to food banks or compost food scraps.

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Right: Karen Elizabeth is one of the driving forces behind the community garden. Below: Items were on display for guests to browse and purchase.

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Below: Ken and Heather Simpkins came to play the drums. Right: David Hansen, Christy Halbert, Kevin Halbert and Greg Hansen

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No one was too young to join the drum circle.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

PC d

Businesses are looking at Plant City for development. Why? April 21 (Hard, difficulty EMILYrating TOPPER 0.67) | STAFF WRITER

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Highlands Packaging

Deane C. Foote, president and CEO of Foote Consulting Group LLC, said at he never looked seriously at Tampa Bay for business before the recent site selector trip. After touring Highland Packaging, Foote has changed his tune. “I think it was a great trip,” he said. “We learned a lot. We saw a plant, and that was really, really interesting.” Many of the panelists said product development was a top priority when considering site locations. In addition to Highland Packaging, which creates new, innovative processes in packaging, Plant City is a hub of the latest and greatest in the manufacturing industry: from LidWorks innovative lids for cold and hot drinks to Armor Products creating backpacks, wheeled bags and bags for scuba diving. Product development in Plant City continues to be on an incline.

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the ability for trains to pass through quickly, from Park Road through Historic Downtown and near County Line Road. But it’s not just its rail system that makes Plant City stand out, the site selectors said. The easy access to Interstate 4 and prime locations along the I-4 corridor make Plant City a key place to be. Along the interstate, drivers can take five exits that lead to Plant City while being just a short drive from Tampa, Lakeland and Orlando. While some residents have worried that Plant City could see growing pains in transportation with continued expansion in the city, Lloyd suggests that potential transportation problems are manageable. “Traffic is an issue in (Tampa Bay),” said Christopher D. Lloyd, senior vice president and director of infrastructure and economic development at McGuireWoods Consulting LLC. “But in this community, at least you’re thinking about it. You’re not just sticking your head in the sand.”

ROOM TO GROW

CSX Railroad

Jerry Szatan, the owner of Szatan & Associates, was quick to mention Plant City’s railway advantage. “CSX can be your marketing partners,” Szatan said. The city’s railroads are built with

County Line Road, minutes from Interstate 4, the County Line Commerce Center is a small glimpse of the potential Plant City has for growth. Central Florida Development leases the space to businesses, including SparkleSkirts and Appalachian Insulation. One of the most recent buildings on the lot, which boasts 100,000-square-feet, was completed in February. The location reminds potential business owners and developers of one thing: Plant City is poised for growth. “The lack of available space is sometimes tough,” said Deane C. Foote, president and CEO of Foote Consulting Group LLC. At the panel, the site selectors guild joked that they could more accurately be described as a site eliminators guild. “You still have to have buildings to bring clients in ... but you can compete with any city in the world for a lot of different projects. Tell your story,” Foote said.

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Historic Downtown

Many of the site selectors said when their clients looked at a community, they sought out one where they felt wanted and included. The City of Plant City and the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce are working to make businesses feel welcome through partnerships, incentives and helping businesses move forward. “I think they realize that inside city government, we realize that time is money,” City Manager Mike Herr said.

When: 6 p.m., Saturday, April 30 Where: Plant City High School, 1 Raider Place Price: $10 Information: GFWCPlantCityJuniors. com Former queens: Contact Racquel Sturgis, (813) 928-0211

The club spends an average of $15,000 buying shoes and socks for children in need. The fundraiser takes its contestants seriously. The girls are judged on four factors: an interview, stage presence, speaking and grooming. The first step to becoming a Little Miss Plant City Queen is mastering the interview. Girls are asked one question in front of five judges. On stage — and in front of hundreds of eyes — the girls have to make sure their 30-second speech and stage presence is presentable and crafty. “Once again, this isn’t really a beauty pageant,” Sturgis said. “No spray tan, no fluffy hair. We keep it age appropriate.” Sturgis is looking for former Little Miss Plant City queen to attend the event. Contact her at (813) 928–0211 to be added to the special guest list. Previous winners are invited to be present.

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This Sudoku answers April 21 week’s (Hard, difficulty rating 0.67)

Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver.com.

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This week’s Crossword answers

File photo

Raylynn Thompson was crowned the 2015 queen.

Medicare welcome

Same Week Appointments Same Week Appointments Most insurance accepted Most insurance plans plans accepted

n 2016 Florida Strawberry Festival court members Ashtyn Steele, Ashlyn Yarbrough and Alex Aponte competed in Little Miss Plant City together. n When a contestant broke the heel of her shoe one year, she went on stage regardless and finished the competition.

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The site selectors included company presidents, managing directors and more: n Deane C. Foote, president and CEO, Foote Consulting Group LLC n Christopher D. Lloyd, senior vice president and director, infrastructure and economic development, McGuireWoods Consulting LLC n Lawrence Moretti, principal, LFM Corporate Location Solutions n Scott Redbaugh, managing director, JLL Business Consulting Group n Jerry Szatan, owner, Szatan & Associates

201312

MEET THE PANEL

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PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

The following day, Friday, April 8, the site selectors gathered for a panel at the Tampa Marriott Waterside to discuss their visit. What was it that impressed them about Plant City’s offerings? They laid out the necessities that a city must have for continued business success.

Specializing in:

At a Site Selectors Guild Advisory Forum Breakfast, site selectors from around the nation told business owners and city and county leaders why they’re putting Tampa Bay — and Plant City — on the map. Road corridor and stopped at Highland Packaging Inc. on Gordon Food Service Drive, they each had the same surprised reaction. “They said, ‘We had no idea (of the area’s amenities),’” Yvonne Fry, who is on the executive committee of the Plant City Economic Development Corp., said.

FRIDAY, APRIL 22, 2016

Plant City PC D Dermatology

$elling Plant ¢ity Six site selectors, business leaders from around the nation, visited the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World earlier this month. Their job: to size up Plant City for future economic opportunities. Once they completed their “windshield tour” through Historic Downtown, Midtown and the County Line

2016

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, APRIL 22, 2016

FRIDAY, APRIL 22

BEST BET

AN AFTERNOON OF HOLLYWOOD STYLE 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, April 22, at First Baptist Church of Plant City, 503 N. Palmer St. The Woman’s Club of Plant City is presenting the luncheon and style show. Tickets are $20. Contact Peggy at (813) 752-7905.

SATURDAY, APRIL 23 EVENING OF PIANO 6 p.m. Saturday, April 23, at the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center, 106 S. Evers St. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Music begins at 7:45 p.m. Pianist Dr. Teo Kulyk will perform. Tickets are $30. RSVP to Marsha Passmore at (813) 245-2244 or mappmore@ msn.com.

CHILDREN’S CLASSIC GOLF TOURNAMENT 12:30 p.m. Friday, April 22, at Walden Lake Golf and Country Club, 2001 Clubhouse Drive. The tournament will help the Kiwanis Club, Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and South Florida Baptist Hospital’s Wellness on Wheels Program. Contact event chair Jodi Stevens at (813) 7578574.

Plant City and Tampa Bay Technical will be performing songs in American Sign Language. This event is intended to spread awareness of ASL, as well as provide a learning opportunity for students. Admission and parking are free for this family-friendly event. For more information email robin.schwarz@sdhc.k12.fl.us or call SCHS at (813) 707-7522.

MONDAY, APRIL 25

CITY COMMISSION MEETING 7:30 p.m. Monday, April 25, at City Hall, 302 W. Reynolds St. FAMILY MOVIE TIME 3 p.m. Monday, April 25, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. Join staff for popcorn and a movie at the library. Children are welcome to bring a blanket. The movie is rated G. For more information about the movie, please call the Bruton Memorial Library at (813) 757-9215 or visit the library event calendar at PlantCityGov.com/library. Refreshments funded by the Friends of the Bruton Memorial Library.

PLANT CITY HIGH SCHOOL AWARD NIGHT 6 p.m. Thursday, April 28, at Plant City High School, 1 Raider Place. FANCY FLEA 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, April 29, through Sunday, May 1, at the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds, 2866 Reynolds St. Free parking. Admission is $5. Shop vintage and repurposed furniture, antiques, trinkets, clothing and more. FancyFlea.net.

TUESDAY, APRIL 26

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE EXTRAVAGANZA CONCERT 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 26, at Strawberry Crest High School, 4691 Gallagher Road, Dover. Students from Blake, Durant, Hillsborough, Strawberry Crest, Middleton,

TAMPA BAY BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, April 29; 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, April 30; and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, May 1, at Keel and Curley Winery,

ACOUSTIC HAPPY HOUR 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Fridays, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub & Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818.

CORN HOLE TOURNAMENTS 7:30 p.m. Fridays at Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse and Grill, 106 E. State Road 60. UncleMikesGrill. com or (813) 737-4444.

SATURDAY, APRIL 30

BABY TIME 10 a.m. Thursdays, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. Early literacy begins at birth. Bond with your baby through stories, bouncy rhymes and songs in this 20-minute lapsit program that introduces early literacy skills and encourages language development. For children ages up to 18 months old and their caregivers. BLUES NIGHT 7 to 10 p.m. Fridays, at Top Shelf Bar & Grill, 110 E. Reynolds St. Blues veteran Don Lehman brings sophisticated, contemporary blues, soul, funk and jazz to Historic Downtown. No cover. (813) 704-6994.

COUNTRY-FRIED FRIDAYS 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Fridays, at Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill, 106 E. State Road 60. Ladies drink free and the DJ plays top 40 country hits. UncleMikesGrill.com or (813) 737-4444.

BORN AGAIN GUN CLUB 7 p.m. the second Monday of the month, at One Accord Church, 2203 W. Baker St. For more information and to view the club’s bylaws and application, please visit its website at 1keeneteacher.

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CLASSIC CAR SHOW AT UNCLE MIKE’S Second Saturday of every month at Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse and Grill, 106 E. State Road 60. UncleMikesGrill.com or (813) 737-4444.

ONGOING

STEPPING STONE WORKSHOP 9 a.m. Saturday, April 30, at Plant City Commons Community Garden, 2001 E. Cherry St. Make a garden stepping stone for Mother’s Day. Cement and a small selection of decorative items will be supplied for one stone. Bring a mold, no more than 10 inches wide. The mold can be a cake pan, box, pie tin or more. You may want to bring your own decorative items: pieces of jewelry, marbles, mosaic tiles, coins or more. Contact Sharon Spires at (813) 763-3068 or visit PlantCityCommunityGarden. com.

FRIDAY, APRIL 29

CHRISTIAN CONTEMPORARY MUSIC 6:33 to 8:13 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. (813) 752-1220.

5210 Thonotosassa Road. Enjoy a blueberry U-pick on the grounds of the winery, as well as vendors, live music, craft beer and blueberry wine. KeelAndCurleyWinery.com. LITTLE MISS PLANT CITY 6 p.m. Saturday, April 30, at Plant City High School, 1 Raider Place. Tickets are $10. Proceeds benefit charity projects of the Junior Woman’s Club. Contact Racquel Sturgis, (813) 928-0211.

THURSDAY, APRIL 28

wix.com/bagc, check out its Facebook page or email President Jeff Keene at bornagaingunclub@ gmail.com.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY ENTREPRENEUR SERVICES ASSISTANCE 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays at the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, 106 N. Evers St. KARAOKE 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturdays at Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse and Grill, 106 E. State Road 60. UncleMikesGrill.com or (813) 737-4444. KEEL AND CURLEY LIVE MUSIC 6:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. (813) 7529100.

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Walden Pointe Community 1st Ever Yard Sale!! Multiple Homes

Furniture • Baby Items • Clothes • Shoes • Electronics • Drafts • Bedding & Much More

We are Christ centered, church connected, and community minded as we equip the body of Christ. Our Core Values: 201418

Christ, Biblical Truth, Integrity, Accountability, Discipleship, Love, Witness, and Faithfulness

Dr. Dan Morris Sr., President

BiblicalLeadership.Institute • Phone 813-659-1903 Leavell College Certificate Site 105 Baker Street Plant City

In accordance with the provisions of State Law there being due and unpaid charges for which the undersigned is entitled to satisfy and owner and/or manager’s lien of goods hereinafter described and stored at: Rentlok Self Storage located at 1205 S Alexander St., Plant City, FL 33563, 813-759-2800. And due notice having been given, to the owner of said property and all parties know to claim an interest therein, and the time specified in such notice for payment of such having expired, the goods will be sold at public auction at the above stated locations to the highest bidder or otherwise disposed of on WEDNESDAY, MAY 11, 2016 @ 9:30 AM. OR ANY DATE THERE IN AFTER. Donald Williams---Household

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NWTF 16 Annual Banquet th

Friday 6pm • April 29th Tickets: $60 for Adults • $30 for Kids(18 & Under)

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All tickets include drawing for door prizes, 1-year NWTF membership, magazine subscription, and all you can eat catered Bar-B-Q meal with drinks & dessert.

Held at the Arthur Boring Civic Center 2406 W. Reynolds Street Plant City, FL 33563

Includes: • Silent & Live Auction • Numerous Guns • 150 Items Raffled Away • Corp. & Sponsor Tables Avail.

TICKETS CAN BE PURCHASED AT SOUTHSIDE FARM SUPPLY, FARM BUREAU OF PLANT CITY AND ARROWHEAD ARCHERY

Perf Event Foect r WHOLE the FAMILY

CALL NICK FOR INFO: 813.967.3858

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

MICHAEL JOSEPH BESON Michael Joseph Beson, 67, died April 8, 2016. He was born in Bay City, Michigan to Joseph and Rosemary (Sullivan) Beson. He married Bonnie (Bogart) Beson on April 25, 1970. They were approaching their 46th wedding anniversary. He graduated from Bay City All Saints and served four years as a sergeant in the United States Air Force. He retired from GM and was the owner of B&B Market. He was a respected community member, a man of integrity and a hard worker. He will always be remembered for his gentle soul, patience and kind, loving heart. He is survived by his wife, Bonnie; children, Michael Joseph Beson II (Crystal) and Raquel Beson (Kenneth O’Dell); grandchildren, Chandler Beson, Desmond Batchelder and Michael Joseph Beson III; siblings and in-laws, Tim Beson (Debbie), Pat Beson (Vicky), Margie Beson (Al Moore), JoeJoe Beson, Renee Little (Greg), Connie and Tim Kraska, Mary Walraven and Julie and Tom Stachowski; and many uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and special friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother; and brother-in-law. A memorial mass will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, April 22, 2016, at St. Clement Catholic Church, 1104 N. Alexander St., Plant City. Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com. ROSA “STUB” BRADBURY Rosa “Stub” Bradbury, 73, of Fort Meade, and formerly of Plant City, and Pelham, Georgia, died April 12, 2016. She was a career bookkeeper. She loved her family, and she enjoyed gardening. She is survived by her children, Susan Ham (Kipp), of Plant City, Angela “Angie” Smith (Kevin), of Plant City, and James “Buddy” Sellers Jr. (Cindy), of Alturas; siblings, Helen Shiver,

of Cairo, Georgia, and Joe Willis (Sherry), of Pelham, Georgia; 11 grandchildren; and 15 greatgrandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald Bradbury; parents, Eulie Floyd and Emogene Willis; and sister, Frances Tuggle. A celebration of life was held April 16, at Hopewell Funeral Home in Plant City. Committal followed at Hopewell Memorial Gardens in Plant City. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com. JERRY E. BROOKS Jerry E. Brooks, 75, of Lithia, and born in Opp, Alabama, died April 13, 2016. He enjoyed softball and fishing. He is survived by his children, Wayne, Billy, Nicky and Chucky; brother, Willie; and many grandchildren, nieces, nephews and family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Will and Alice; and siblings, Bobbie, Voncille and Lonie. A celebration of life was held April 16, at Hopewell Funeral Home in Plant City. Committal followed at Hopewell Memorial Gardens in Plant City. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com. HAZEL KEENE COLDING Hazel Keene Colding, 87, formerly of Plant City, died April 11, 2016, in Fort Myers, Florida. She was a proud Plant City native, born Dec. 12, 1928. She graduated from Pinecrest High School and after worked for the Ellis and Lowe Company. It was during this time that she joined the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority and made many lifelong friends. She married Murray Colding, a childhood friend and Air Force NCO, in 1951. They began their lives together at Kelly Air Force Base, Texas. Following this assignment was a tour of Wimpole Park, England, where their daughter, Linda, was born. The couple traveled throughout Europe, and Mrs. Keene saw Queen Elizabeth of England. Following assignments included Homestead AFB, Florida, Bitburg AB, Ger-

many, RAF Lakenheath, England and Offutt AFB, Nebraska. After her husband retired from the Air Force in 1969, the family returned to Picnic, Florida and the family orange grove. In 2004, she and her husband moved to Plant City. In 2013, she joined her daughter in Orlando and last fall moved to Fort Myers. She is survived by her daughter, Linda, of Ft. Myers; brother, Leon H. Keene, of Frostproof; and many nieces, nephews and dear cousins. She is preceded in death by her husband, Murray; parents, Leon Preston and Lillie Smith Keene; and sister, Helen K. McBride. A funeral service was held April 16, at Turkey Creek First Baptist Church in Plant City. Interment, next to her husband, followed at Hurrah Cemetery in Lithia. Flowers will be accepted but contributions may be made to the Florida Baptist Children’s Homes, 1015 Sikes Blvd., Lakeland, Florida 33815. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com. LAMAR P. DORMAN Lamar P. Dorman, 71, of Plant City, died April 3, 2016, at home. He was born in Dothan, Alabama, on Sept. 22, 1944. He lived in the Plant City area all his life. He was a veteran of the United States Army, a truck driver for Mosaic and a member of Alafia Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lena Diane Dorman. He is survived by his niece, Nora Miles. A funeral service was held April 6, at Seigler Funeral HomeChapel in in Mulberry. Online condolences may be made at SeiglerFuneralHome. net. CIRO “JERRY” IOVINE Ciro “Jerry” Iovine, 73, of Lithia, died April 6, 2016. He was an amazing husband, father, grandfather and friend to all who knew him and are

heartbroken by this loss. He was funny, generous and loved working with his hands. He trained harness, and he was a driver-trainer. He worked for the Postal Service and was a walking delivery carrier at the Empire State building. He proudly served his country with the United States Air Force, where he worked as a military policeman. He loved video games and was an extensive collector of both games and consoles. He built a Florida room, by himself, at the age of 64. He was always working in his shed building, fixing or rewiring things. More than anything, he adored his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Joyce; children, Vincent (Barb), and Lisa (Philip) Raimondo; grandchildren, Angelina, Marisa and Giovani Raimondo; brother, Louie; and sister, Marie. The family will be having private services. Online condolences may be made at BrandonFunerals.com. LORENE GEORGE LAKES Lorene George Lakes, 85, of Plant City, died April 12, 2016. She was born in Iuka, Mississippi, on Feb. 6, 1931, to Jesse George and Ora Bell (Gist) George. She loved to garden and family was everything to her. She will be missed. She is survived by her sister, Juanita Bodiford; grandchildren, Lisa Edwards Harter and Alanah Kovacs; great-granddaughter, Lindsey Oyola; and great-grandson, Harper Oyola. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bert Lakes; daughters, Glenda Lakes Kovach and Cathy Ann Kovacs; and sisters, Helen C. Ellis and Thelma Harrelson. A funeral service was held April 15, at Wells Memorial Funeral Home and Event Center. Burial followed at Mt. Enon Cemetery in Plant City. Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com.

FRIDAY, APRIL 22, 2016

HOLLIS D. “CORKY” MCDONALD Hollis D. “Corky” McDonald, 82, of Plant City, died April 12, 2016. He was of the Baptist faith. He retired from Cargill after 28 years of service and was a citrus and berry farmer. He loved his family, and he enjoyed baseball and the outdoors. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jo Alice F. McDonald; daughters, Karon Corner and Mary Taylor (Dale), of Plant City; sister, Theresa “Judi” Kirby, of Plant City; five grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. A celebration of life was held April 15, at Hopewell Funeral Home in Plant City. Committal followed at Hopewell Memorial Gardens in Plant City. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to New Horizons Group Homes, at NewHorizonsHomes.org. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com. MARIE MURRAY Marie Murray, 60, of Plant City, died April 6, 2016, at Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida. She was born Nov. 30, 1955, and married her beloved Cecil Murray in 1971. They spent the next 42 years loving each other, their children, extended family and everyone else who called them Mom and Dad. They also found time to continue the family business, Murray Monument Company, originally founded by Homer Murray in the 1960s. She is survived by her daughters, Dana (Dwayne), Kristin Murray and Shannon Murray. She was preceded in death by her husband, Cecil Murray; father, George E. Allen; mother, Martha Allen; and brother, George M. Allen. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, April 24, at Eureka Springs Park, 6400 Eureka Springs Road, Tampa, Florida. All are welcome. Condolences can be sent to 6609 Ike Smith Road, Plant City, Florida 33565. In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer a plant or flower that can be planted in her memorial garden. “Whatever be’s will be.”

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APRIL 22, 2016

SPORTS Do you have a good Sports scoop for us? Email Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com or tweet us at @ PCTOSports.

AREA TEAMS IN BASEBALL DISTRICTS Tuesday’s district tournament semifinal scores: 8A-6: Durant 1, Riverview 0; Plant City 10, Bloomingdale 4 8A-4: Strawberry Crest 7, Wiregrass Ranch 0 For championship game results, see PlantCityObserver.com.

Brenham Hay stood out at Pitch, Hit and Run. Page 14

Let’s Not Monkey Around Plant City High School athlete D.J. Tice asked his good friend with Down syndrome to her first prom. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS EDITOR

Whatever D.J. Tice was expecting from prom night, it probably didn’t involve his date holding a sword to his throat. It was all in good fun: that pirate’s cutlass was as fake as the Viking helmet Tice was wearing. These photo booth antics set the tone for that evening, and it’s probably safe to say that no one had more fun at Plant City High’s prom Saturday, April 16, than Tice’s date, Jade Curran. It was the first prom experience for

Jade Curran, who is enrolled in the school’s special education program. Tice, a two-sport athlete, asked her to the dance on Tuesday, April 12, in front of a large crowd of classmates. “I was elated,” Kim Curran, Jade’s mother, says. “I knew they had been friends a long time, but I didn’t know him all that well.” Although Tice had asked Jade Curran to be his date just a few days before prom, the plan had been in the works for much longer. WAITING GAME

wrestler, has known Jade Curran since he first arrived on campus as a freshman. Although many PCHS students make friends with special needs students through the Raider Buddies program, Tice and Jade Curran, also a multi-sport athlete, became friends years before he got involved in the group. The two are known for hanging out every day, talking about school and life. Jade Curran even cheers Tice on at sporting events, when the Raider Buddies students take to the football sideline with the PCHS cheerleaders. Tice had wanted to bring Jade Curran to the school’s 2015 prom but, as a sophomore, he wasn’t able to go. This year, he knew he wanted to take Jade

Tice, a junior football player and

SEE PROM PAGE 13

Courtesy Photo

D.J. Tice wanted to bring Jade Curran to prom last year, but he wasn’t eligible to go as a sophomore.

SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAM REGISTRATION OPEN Plant City families looking for something for their kids to do this summer need not worry. Registration for the Plant City Recreation and Parks Department’s annual Summer Youth Program is open. The program, which has sites at both the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Rec Center, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd., and the Planteen Recreation Center, 301 Dort St., gives children ages 5 to 15 the opportunity to have fun from June 13 through Aug. 5. The MLK Center’s program is open to kids ages 5 to 13 who have completed kindergarten. The cost is $275 per child. Register from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at the MLK Center. The Planteen Center’s program is open to kids ages 6 to 15 who have completed kindergarten. The cost for this center’s program is $375 per child. Register from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Planteen Center. Registration fees cover food, activities, field trip expenses and a t-shirt. Kids will play indoor and outdoor games and make arts and crafts on program days, which run from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Payment plans are available. For MLK Center info, contact Recreation Supervisor Lillie Brown at lbrown@plantcitygov.com, or by phone at (813) 757-9195. For Planteen Center info, contact recreation division staff at recinfo@ plantcitygov.com, or by phone at (813) 6594256.

Photos by Justin Kline

Holly Eddins, Kiyana Levins, Meghan Dineen and Tori Selph make up the Plant City High Unified relay team.

It’s the first year there is an all-girls Special Olympics relay team at Plant City High School. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS EDITOR

ince February, four Plant City High students have been

pounding the pavement to prepare for competitions with the firstever Special Olympics girls track team. The team competed Tuesday, April 19, and will compete again Tuesday, April 26. The team formed once the FHSAA, which has lately been including more Special Olympics sports, sanctioned track and field competitions across the state of Florida.

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

SEE TRACK PAGE 13

Curry-mania sweeps Plant City youth JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS EDITOR

It seems that everywhere I go these days, I see “that” jersey. In an area dominated by football and baseball, Stephen Curry’s basketball jersey is unmistakable. Kids have the road blues, the home whites, the “Curry 30” t-shirt/jersey mash-ups and, if they want to

wear a different shirt, they’ve got a Golden State Warriors hat on. More and more often, kids that I talk to in my work-related adventures — Athlete of the Week or otherwise — are citing Curry as their favorite athlete. Or, they’ll say the Warriors are their favorite team

— and there’s usually one big reason why that is. I’ll let you use context clues for that one. Truthfully, it’s really hard to root against the guy if you’re not a contrarian, someone who plays devil’s advocate just to stand out from the pack.

He checks all the boxes for most folks: NBA MVP, historically great skillset, fun demeanor on and off the court, dedicated family man, devout Christian and, perhaps most importantly, living proof that you don’t SEE KLINE PAGE 13

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FROM PROM PAGE 12

CHECK IT OUT

Curran to prom if it was possible. “I already had her picked out,” Tice says. “Me and my mom planned this out four or five months ago. We had been trying to get a hold of Jade’s mom.” While waiting, Tice and his friends concocted an elaborate setup. They made several signs, got roses, a teddy bear and a stuffed monkey doll, and planned to have Tice pop the question in the middle of the high school’s busy “mall” area. “Let’s not monkey around,” one sign read. “Prom would be unbearable without you!” Kim Curran had gotten Tice’s Facebook message about the promproposal and also heard about the it from her daughter. But it was the video that hit home for her. Tice pulled a bouquet of roses from behind his back and gave her daughter a big hug in front of a cheering crowd. “It’s the best thing that we’ve ever had happen,” Kim Curran says.

Kim Curran has shared the prom proposal video to her Facebook page, and it is viewable by anyone. To watch: Facebook.com/kim.curran2/videos/ vb.1265955686/10209005022 463858/?type=2&theater

PROM NIGHT

Tice and Jade Curran had been the talk of the town leading up to prom night. Teachers, students and friends

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND? FROM PAGE 12

have to be a natural-born physical specimen to succeed in sports, let alone the most athletically-dependent sport there is. I’m not a huge fan of his Under Armour shoes but, other than that, count me in as a Curry fan. When I was around the same age as many of the Curry fans I’ve talked to, recently-retired Kobe Bryant was that dude. He was Michael Jordan for people born after 1996 and, for people born a few years before then, the young, thrilling player to latch onto as Jordan neared his own retirement. A lot of my friends wanted to ball like Kobe. Kobe’s impact on the young folks at the time ended up changing the way basketball was played (with some help from Jordan, of course). In Kobe’s prime, because everyone grew up wanting to play like him, teams were building around guards and forwards that could run isolation plays well. The short version is, “give me the ball, clear out some space and let me work.” The long version is, most of an offense spaces itself around the floor in such a way that opposing defenders are drawn away from the basket, giving one player (generally a guard, or a small forward) the ability to play one-on-one ball. With the amount of space generated in ISO, this approach let players either blow by an opponent for a layup or create a nice, open space for a jump shot. As inefficient as it could sometimes be, it’s worked often enough to remain popular. Of course, as star-focused as it could be (your ballhandler in these situations is almost always your best player), relying too heavily on the ISO without the right supporting cast can lead to disaster. Now that Kobe’s gone, it looks like Curry is about to be the next guy who changes the game, which we should see in a big picture in a few years. I’m curious to see how Curry and the Warriors will affect basketball, especially the high school game. There are so many reasons why this Warriors team works: it’s unafraid to move the ball, it plays fast, its role players are great at doing what they’re asked, it uses screens better than any other team. The list goes on. But building a team to play that way will require coaches to change the way they teach their players. You know how many NBA forwards can play a true all-around game like Draymond Green, my favorite Warrior? One, but that’s LeBron James. You know how many spot-up shooters can be as automatic as Klay Thompson and also play defense at the same level? Very few. You know why Curry’s jump shot is completely flawless, the same way Ken Griffey Jr.’s baseball swing was? Because he had great teachers and a killer work ethic. I hope to see more Plant City athletes working like Curry. He’s not a freak athlete like Kobe was, meaning his style of play is more accessible to anyone. And if more kids want to play like Curry, more coaches will want to play like the Warriors do. Small-ball could blow up, giving the verticallychallenged (like myself) a better shot at a basketball career. And, yes, I have Curry and Golden State beating the Miami Heat for the NBA championship in five games. Contact Justin Kline at jkline@ plantcityobserver.com.

had been sharing the pictures and video of the prom proposal all over social media, and both Tice and Jade Curran were showered with praise. The Saturday of prom was the first time the Tice and Curran families met, and they spent the day together. A professional photographer came to take pictures of the couple, and the families bonded over a meal at Chili’s. The Currans moved to Plant City from Atlanta in 2006. Jade Curran, 19, is currently in Plant City High’s post-graduate program for special needs students after receiving her diploma in 2015. Kim Curran says that Plant City’s special

needs program couldn’t have been any better to her daughter over the years. “We’re so blessed to have moved here 10 years ago and moved to this school,” Kim Curran says. “I feel like God put us in this place.” When Tice and Jade Curran arrived at the “Starry Night”-themed prom,

they went through the usual round of pictures — goofy and serious — before getting to the good part. “Jade said, ‘You’d better bring your dancing shoes,’” Tice says. “She told me to be ready.”

FRIDAY, APRIL 22, 2016

Courtesy Photos

Circle: D.J. Tice and Jade Curran had fun in the photo booth. Above: With help from his friends, D.J. Tice made his prom proposal memorable for both parties.

Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

Tight Lines

lmost 60 of Plant City's youngest anglers took to the pond behind Plant City Stadium Saturday, April 19, for one of the city's most fun traditions. The Youth Fishing Derby, put on twice a year by the Plant City Recreation and Parks Department, offers kids ages 5 to 15 the chance to hook bass, catfish, mudfish and more while potentially leaving with a trophy and new gear. This month, there was also a casting contest to test accuracy.

Photos by Justin Kline

Almost 60 youths and their families participated in the derby.

— JUSTIN KLINE

Right: Jaylen Gadson, Jordan Gadson and Eshavia Rejouir had a good time together. Below: Bella Graves was all smiles.

WINNERS First bass: Alex Godfrey First catfish: Aryona Brown Biggest fish (ages 5 to 10): Aleena Brown (mudfish, 5.6 pounds) Biggest fish (ages 11 to 15): Max Ness (bass, 4 pounds) Most catches (ages 5 to 10): Justice Anderson (17) Most catches (ages 11 to 15): Austin Smith (12) Casting contest: Kaleb Waters Corbin Woodside brought this fish to the weigh-in.

Track: Girls rule

NEVER A DULL MOMENT

FROM PAGE 12

While it’s not the first time Plant City’s Special Olympics program has put teams in track and field competitions, the move to the state’s prep sports-governing body means that it’s the first time the program is fielding an all-girls team. “They started with basketball in the previous school year,” track coach Kim Levins says. “This is the first year they’ve done track. This is something new to us.” These four girls, a mix of specialneeds and regular education students, will run the 4x100 relay under the Raiders banner. Some have prior track experience, but others are passing the baton for their first time. Should the team perform well, it will advance to the FHSAA state finals, which will be held the first weekend of May. Needless to say, the girls are excited. MEET THE TEAM

Kiyana Levins, the coach’s daughter, is in her third year of running track with the school’s Special Olympics team. “My first year doing it, I was kind of scared because I really wasn’t around kids with intellectual disabilities,” Kiyana Levins says. “Getting to work with them has been good, and it’s helped me understand who they are inside. They’re very happy all the

Photo by Justin Kline

Every Sunday, the girls work on their baton passing and relay times.

time, and it just makes me happy.” Tori Selph plays many sports for PCHS Special Olympics and is no stranger to track and field events. “I’m trying to beat these teams,” Selph says. “I want to get first place for the team.” Selph’s favorite Special Olympics events include the long jump and bocce, but she’s also becoming a fan of the relay. “I love doing the relays,” she says. “It helps my heart — it makes it stronger.” Meghan Dineen has never run the 4x100 relay before and is looking forward to putting her newfound skills to the test in real competition. She’s also been enjoying her time with the team.

“It will be fun,” Dineen says. Holly Eddins is getting back on a track for the first time since she was a student at Tomlin Middle School. Eddins, who also plays Unified soccer, enjoys helping her teammates. “It’s fun to run with them and see them get better throughout training and stuff,” Eddins says. “Them having fun makes us have more fun.” She’s so confident in the team’s ability to win that she doesn’t even like to field questions about it. “Is that a question,” she said. “Because we’re going to win.” Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

All four girls on the Plant City High Special Olympics track team have a strong bond, and they’re not afraid to have some fun when they’re not working. Tori Selph, in particular, has a reputation for being the prankster of the team. “They always surprise you,” Holly Eddins says. “Tori will come out and try to scare someone. You have to always be cautious.” Selph agrees, cackling about her pranks. “I just come out from around a corner and jump,” she says. “I go, ‘Ahh!’”

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, APRIL 22, 2016

Brenham Hay

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At the Aquafina Pitch, Hit and Run competition, held Saturday, April 16, at Mike Sansone Park, many Plant City Little Leaguers put their baseball skills to the test. Brenham Hay, 8, proved to be the cream of the crop: he hit the ball 62.3 feet, had a 7.33-second run time and was the only person to hit three strikes in the pitching challenge. Hay wins a $25 giftcard from GNC at Walden Woods. He can pick up the giftcard at the Plant City Times & Observer office, 1507 S. Alexander St. #103.

do you pick? To teleport.

Was it your first time doing Pitch, Hit and Run? Yes.

What’s one part of your game you want to get better at? Pitching.

What made you want to try it? I like pitching, because it’s my first time being in Minors. I like pitching. It’s real fun. It’s fun to hit, because I can really hit good.

What kind of pitches do you throw? Changeup and fastball.

Are you going to do it again next year? Yes.

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What pitches do you want to be able to throw? Breaking balls. If you could meet any famous person, who would you want to hang out with for a day? Kevin Kiermaier. What would you want to do? Just go and play some ball.

So you started at 4. Do you play any other sports? Just baseball. What’s the coolest thing you’ve ever done on a baseball field? Pitching. Was there a game where you pitched really well? I struck out two people in a row. It was the first game we played this year. The first time I pitched.

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W EAT HER

FORECAST

SUNRISE / SUNSET

FRIDAY, APRIL 22

High: 85 Low: 65 Chance of rain: 80%

SATURDAY, APRIL 23 High: 87 Low: 63 Chance of rain: 20%

SUNDAY, APRIL 24 High: 89 Low: 65 Chance of rain: 10%

MONDAY, APRIL 25 High: 89 Low: 66 Chance of rain: 20%

Sunrise Sunset

Friday, April 22

6:57a

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Saturday, April 23

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Sunday, April 24

6:55a

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Monday, April 25

6:54a

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Tuesday, April 26

6:53a

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Wednesday, April 27

6:53a

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Thursday, April 28

6:51a

8:01p

April 29 Last

May 13 First

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Do you have a picture that speaks to the personality of Plant City? To enter the I Love Plant City photo contest, email that photo and a caption to Managing Editor Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com. Winners will have their picture featured and receive a special gift.

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Noah, 7 months, has only been eating solid foods for a month, and it was perfect timing for strawberry season. He loves Plant City strawberries and eats them every day, mixed with other locally grown fruits and vegetables. Mother Holly Collins makes a trip to a Plant City farmer’s market once a week and loves being able to make his baby food out of fresh, locally grown produce. She took this picture during this year’s Florida Strawberry Festival.

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1 Antique, quaintly 5 Like haunted house sounds 10 Don’t go on 14 Low end of the Mohs scale 18 e.e. cummings works 20 16th-century council site 21 Trapper’s trophy 22 Village Voice award 23 Ship’s emergency exit 25 Deceptive gridiron run 27 Maternity ward arrivals 28 Like a DIYer 30 Flat dweller 31 Shrinking Asian sea 32 Turndowns 33 Starbucks offering 34 Zero of “The Producers” 37 Frampton of rock 40 Playground retort 43 Big Apple tennis venue 44 Hospital fluids 45 Crinkly veggie 46 “To ___ it may ...” 50 X, to Xenophon 51 Strategy B, maybe 56 Horatian work 57 “Zebra,” in sports 58 Lenders’ securities 59 Holds dear 60 De Valera of Ireland 62 Flatbreads of sorts 64 BART part 65 Passover meals 66 Poorer, as excuses go 67 Quick-cook noodle soup 68 Justice Ruth ___ Ginsburg 69 Native of northwest France 71 Break off 72 File holders 75 Gave a glowing review 76 Didn’t just sit there 77 Violinist’s application 78 Old hand 79 Get mellower 80 Carl Reiner’s directorial debut, 1967 83 Have a bug 84 Prepares to feather 86 Mae West’s “___ Angel” 87 Harrow rival 88 Chop into cubes 89 Sri Lankan tea 91 Bottomless pit 93 Turned suddenly 95 Mater’s mate 98 Mai ___ cocktail 99 Disorganized pile 100 River to the Congo 102 Cradle’s spot, in song 104 Seaweed-clogged sea 108 Dress shirt style 110 Recording engineer’s place 112 Wight, for one 113 Tourists’ neckwear 114 AKA follower 115 Pianist’s exercise 116 In the neighborhood 117 Piano recital piece 118 Tither’s portion 119 Reach across

1. P G X F V M W 2. H F V B B 3. H E Q X W I 4. K G X Z V H X 5. G X F Y D Y E M

This playwright wrote over 60 plays and five novels:

SUDOKU

Solve the puzzle by placing the numbers 1 April 21 (Hard, rating 0.67) through 9 difficulty in each row, column and box.

8 3

7 1

9 6 7

4 3

8 1 4 6

4 1

1 9

OctopusCarWashFlorida.com

ACROSS

Each of the following cryptograms is a clue to the identity of a distinguished playwright. Using the hints X=E and G=R, decipher the clues to name the playwright.

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CROSSWORD

CRYPTOQUIZ

CAR C AR W WASH ASH

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Vacuum

5 April 21 (Hard, difficulty rating 0.67)

4 1

6 5

8 9 3

9 3

6 4 7

8 5

8 2

6 7

4 5

9 3

6 8 7

9 2

9 6 2

8 7

4 3

9 5

8 7

4 6

6 9 4 1

DOWN

1 Still unresolved 2 Get checkmated 3 Radio City’s style, for short 4 Issue forth 5 Singer Merman 6 Hurlers’ stats 7 Emeritus (Abbr.) 8 Move stealthily 9 Simple hydrocarbon 10 Loses, as pounds 11 Pocket-sized 12 Roulette bet 13 Thunder sound 14 Unable to keep up 15 Treat like dirt 16 Hanky material 17 Granted, as land 19 Expendable 24 List-ending abbr. 26 Gen. Lee’s men 29 Neither’s partner 34 Large in scale 35 Milo of “Ulysses” 36 Auto’s gear selector 37 Hammer ends 38 Drops an easy one 39 Salon offering

40 Like Zorro or Batman 41 “___ fair in ... “ 42 Three R’s org. 44 One in a cattle drive 45 Costner of “Bull Durham” 47 Activity for the 28-Across 48 Dumpster output 49 Department store department 51 Pie order 52 Draw a parallel 53 Oakland’s county 54 W.C. Fields persona 55 Short of 61 Yemeni port 63 Blanchett of “Elizabeth” 64 “Bolero” composer 65 Oral vaccine pioneer 67 Like 3-Down 68 Place for boats 69 Babysitter’s handful 70 Sitar melody 71 Public outburst 72 Some Pacific salmon 73 Very short time 74 Did some cobbling 76 Prefix with sphere 77 Mil. units 81 Suffix with neat or peace

82 One-eighty 85 Tracy of “Captains Courageous” 88 Shoves off 90 Descartes quote word 91 Junior Olympics org. 92 Tiger or lion 93 ___ Beach, Fla. 94 $10 gold piece 95 World leader who was in the KGB 96 Lower in rank 97 Percussion in a 70-Down 98 Sculpted form 99 Hardly lenient 101 Societal problems 102 Tend to a sinking boat 103 Place for a numbered flag 104 Yards per carry, e.g. 105 Ladled fare 106 Jerk’s offering 107 Broken mirror, to some 109 Baseball’s Durocher 111 “Delta of Venus” author

158000-1 201306

Courtesy of the United States

YEAR TO DATE:

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, APRIL 22, 2016

Urology Facts For Men

Men, join us for a free community education seminar. Learn about prostate specific antigen (PSA) screenings, the latest advancements in urology care and when robotic surgery is an option.

Wednesday, May 11 | 6pm South Florida Baptist Hospital Community Conference Room 301 N. Alexander St., Plant City

Brian Cronson, MD Urologist

Matthew Sheldon, MD Urologist

201423

BC1602644-0416