05.06.16 PCTO by Plant City Observer

PLANT CITY TIMES &

Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

VOLUME 3, NO. 44

Sports, page 12 FREE

Sunny Days YOUR TOWN

Plant City youth are teed up for golf. •

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016

Sunflowers on the Ranch will be open for Mother’s Day. See page 6.

THE CROWN FITS HER WELL Carlie Braglin won the crown for the 2016 Little Miss Plant City competition Saturday, April 30. The three-hour event

Times buys Tribune The Tampa Bay Times, Florida’s largest newspaper, on Tuesday, May 3, purchased the Tampa Tribune from Revolution Capital Group, saying it intends to create one financially secure, locally-owned daily newspaper in the Tampa Bay region. The Tampa Bay Times is a co-owner of the Plant City Times & Observer, and the Tampa Tribune is the owner of the Plant City Courier. The Plant City Courier’s last edition was Wednesday, May 4. Times chairman and CEO Paul Tash announced the purchase at the Tribune headquarters in downtown Tampa on Tuesday afternoon. “The continued competition between the newspapers was threatening to both,” Tash said in a statement. “There are very few cities that are able to sustain more than one daily newspaper, and the Tampa Bay region is not among them.”

included 29 competitors who graced the stage with poise. FOR MORE PHOTOS, TURN TO PAGE 8.

WINNER

Read about the winner of our Mother’s Day Contest. Page 3

Nate Kilton wins City Commission race The election went to a runoff May 3. AMBER JURGENSEN MANAGING EDITOR

After months of campaigning and two elections, Nate Kilton won the open City of Plant City Commission seat. The runoff election was held Tuesday, May 3, a month after the first election on Tuesday, April 5. Kilton ran against David Cook. "It's the end of the beginning," Kilton said at his watch party at The Corner Store. "I'm excited to roll up my sleeves and get ready for the next step." Kilton is a businessman in the Plant City community and owns Sedita Kilton Life & Wealth Management

LLC and Sedita Kilton & Company, Certified Public Accountants, PL. He is a certified financial planner, a certified public accountant and a co-owner of the Plant City Times & Observer. He is also involved in multiple organizations throughout Plant City, including the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, GracePoint Church and the Economic Development Corp. His platform includes initiatives to support economic development in Plant City and uniting residents along racial lines. SEE RACE PAGE 3

Photo by Amber Jurgensen

Nate Kilton and State Attorney Mark Ober embraced at Kilton's watch party May 3.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

MAY 6, 2016

WEEK OF MAY 6, 2016

“I wanted to pat myself on the back for not throwing up on the first day, but that might have caused me to throw up,” Sports Editor Justin Kline, on working out with a Brazilian jiu-jitsu team. Read his column on page 12.

One dead in train collision One person is dead after an SUV tried to beat a train to the crossing and traveled into the train’s path. At about 4:05 p.m. Saturday, April 30, Bruce Dean, 19, was driving a 1996 Jeep west on Candis Road when he attempted to beat the train traveling south along Paul Buchman Highway, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Department. The train hit the passenger side of the Jeep, where Angel Fidel GarciaVera, 20, was sitting. The impact pushed the Jeep off the tracks into a ditch. The jeep then overturned onto the driver’s side. Garcia-Vera died, and Dean was transported to Tampa General Hospital with serious injuries.

Crash closes I-4

A man was admitted to Tampa General Hospital Thursday, April 28, with critical injuries, following a crash near Branch Forbes Road. According to Florida Highway Patrol, Michael Robert Plaskett, 26, of Lakeland, was driving his 1999 Lexus east on Interstate 4 around 3:54 a.m. when, for unknown reasons, he drifted out of the center lane. He hit a trailer then flipped several times before coming to a stop in the center lane. The crash closed part of I-4 until about 7:30 a.m. The driver of the vehicle hauling the trailer, Yonlys Pena, 44, of Tampa, was not harmed. Plaskett was wearing his seat belt at the time of the crash.

Vote Plant City-area Democrats will soon be able to vote for delegates for the upcoming Democratic National Convention. The Bruton Memorial Library will serve as Greater Plant City’s polling place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 7. District 15 voters may also vote at the West Tampa Library, 2312 W. Union St., Tampa. Due to the results of the Florida primary, Hillary Clinton will have one female and two male delegates, while Bernie Sanders will have one of each. YOUR LOCAL CANDIDATES ARE:

he 12-foot alligator that pulled maintenance worker Eddie Evans into Walden Lake last

month has not been caught. But an 8-foot alligator has. A trapper from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation captured the female gator Friday, April 29. "This is not the alligator in question,

DO NOT FEED GATORS Walden Lake is urging residents not to feed gators. Do not feed ducks, turtles or any other animals inhabiting waters with alligators. This food source attracts the alligators, as well, and trains them to associate humans with food.

but it is a potential nuisance given that it came up to the trapper to be fed," WLCA President Dan Orrico said. "The trapper suspects that the gator that attacked Eddie is coming in at night."

THE SHORT OF IT

Both Orrico and Walden Lake Site

WANTED 12-foot alligator

Manager Thomas Sholl were unsure if the gator would be euthanized.

CAUGHT 8-foot female alligator

The trapper has been operating on a

the number of warning signs that have been put up around Walden Lake

45-day permit. If the permit expires

HILLARY CLINTON Men: William W. Wilbanks Jr., Jack Charles Wolff, Lionel S. Washing Women: Anita L. Balch, Elizabeth J. Belcher, Andrea A. Braboy, Stephanie Marie Garza, Leatrice Ione Townsend BERNIE SANDERS Men: Ahmed M. Bedier, Christopher Carlos Cano, Corey Koch, Christopher D. Martinez, Walter J. O’Rourke, Ricky Fernando Shirah Women: Sharron Gill Balic, Lacy Nicole Fowler, Jessica Brillson Vaughn, Anna Lou Weeks

BY THE NUMBERS

200

approximate number of guests who attended the Garden Club’s April Flower Show

number of questions that will be asked at the Plant City History Trivia Challenge May 26

number of stages Consolidated Pest Control uses to kill mosquitos as the season begins

number of girls who competed in the 2016 Little Miss Plant City event April 30

before the gator that attacked Evans is caught, it will likely be renewed.

the number of days the trapper’s current permit is for

Warning signs have been placed in the area surrounding Walden Lake.

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veryday should be Mother’s Day because mothers do so much for their families. We asked readers to send in

stories of why their mothers are the best for our annual Mother’s Day Contest. Marta Gietzen wins a special gift, to be pick it up at our office, 1507 S. Alexander St. #103.

TO ANY LENGTH I believe my mom, Kathy Pease, is the best mom because growing up she always put my sister, father and I first. My mother has never given up on any of us and has worked late nights and early mornings to provide for us. She is a mother, best friend and wonderful person to talk to. I suffered through addiction. She went to any length to get me into treatment (I am seven months sober and can't thank her enough) and drove to Fort Myers twice a week from Plant City to see me on visitation and take me home on Sundays. She was alone for six months because my father took a better job on our family cranberry marsh in Wisconsin, where we reside now. She put her life on hold to help better me as a person. I am so thankful for that. I feel no other mom would put up with the things she has, but that is why she is the best mom. — TIFFANY PEASE

WINNER A RESILIENT SPIRIT My mother, Marta Gietzen, is currently battling stage four pancreatic cancer. Now, this in and of itself does not or should not give her a better chance at being reviewed or put her above others for this essay, but it makes her that much stronger in my eyes and of those around around her. I was told of this article by a friend and suggested I write about my mother because she is just that amazing of a person that every life she comes in contact with she changes it for the better. Before finding out she had pancreatic cancer, my mother had just become a breast cancer survivor and had a double mastectomy. We thought our lives were going to be changed and perfect because she had beaten this horrible monster and the odds — only to find out there was another horrible monster waiting around the corner. My mother didn't lay down. My mother didn't accept the outcome, which is indicative of her “Marta-ness." My mother did not take what was handed to her — which would have most certainly been a death sentence to others. She chose to fight. She chose to say, ‘No.’ And she chose to stand her ground. Five years later we still have her! We still laugh. We still cry. We still play. We still Love. My mother does not sit around and ask, ‘Why her?’ She always keeps a positive outlook. She is the mother of five girls, the grandparent to 13. We don't always make it easy on her. But we keep her standing. We keep her fighting. We make sure she always keeps going. I have four small children. She means the world to them. Whether she's sewing a tunic for my smallest child (who, all of the sudden, is into tunics) or she's sewing the world's biggest baby blanket for my oldest child, she’s always doing something for them. She's always picking someone up or dropping someone off. She’s always making an appearance. She’s always showing up — all the while planning activities around chemotherapy, which she has every other Thursday. Does she complain? No. She just figures out a way to get it done. I know my mother is amazing. I don't need an essay and I don't need a newspaper and I don't need anyone to tell me so. I've always known it from the bottom of my heart. I knew it as a small child when she used to take me outside to eat lunch or when she would watch the 9,000 endless shows I had made up for her at the end of a long day. I know it now as an adult. I just want the whole world to know it like I know. My dad served two tours in Vietnam. She had her first baby by herself, and then they had four more. My mother has raised us. My mother has worked tirelessly. She has had two beauty shops, been a private investigator and done businesses. She and my father have worked their fingers to the bone. She has done everything she could ever do for her children and grandchildren. She has never gotten a huge reward. She never needed one. She never asked for one. She never got huge recognition for being the person she is, but she's touched so many lives and done for so many other people. Even late in life, she went back to college and finished her degree to show us it’s important. It would be a wonderful tribute for her to see a tangible dedication of what a person she is and what an asset to this life she has been — of how she has touched this world. — JAIME GIETZEN-JONES

WHEN MOM IS GONE Mothers deserve a lot more credit than they get. Who else would wash the dishes, do the laundry or make school lunches? We never really realize how much mothers do. We just come home, expect the house to be clean and dinner made. When Mom is gone everything falls apart. Not only do they love us unconditionally, they also teach us how to live life to the fullest. Whether making meals or even the smallest things, such as emptying the trash for you, they deserve all the love they can get. Love you, Mom. — ALYSSA STAHL

UNCONDITIONAL LOVE My beautiful mom’s name is Tracy. I could write a novel on how great of a mom she is, but for now I’ll brag about what I find is the best. She has been my rock since I was born. After all, I am one of the few who knows what her beautiful heart sounds like from the inside. She is more than a mom. She inspires me, she guides me, she has never turned her back on me and, most of all, she loves me! She has taught me how to me a great mom myself. She has taught me life is fragile, to never take a single second for granted. There are way more reasons why my mom is the best mom, but the most important reason, to me, why she is the best is because she is always there to catch me when I fall. She has showed me the true meaning of unconditional love. My mom is the best! I love you, Mom. — ELISSA DENN

NEVER GIVES UP My mother, Hilda Rodriguez, is the annual mother of the year and every year to me. She's a hard-working mother who has two jobs. She started from the bottom and worked her way up. Her school education was middle school. She was working picking strawberries, and she got tried of that life. She wanted something better for us so she started working at a grocery store. Years went by, and she wanted to be a bus driver for Hillsborough County. But she didn't have a high school diploma. She was determined to get it. She went online to get it and then took the CDL test. She became a bus driver, but that wasn't all wanted. She also wanted to be a pharmacy tech. She studied hard and became a tech. I'm very proud to have a mother who never gives up and wants to better herself. My mother has been working two jobs she loves. She is my role model and the best mother I could ask for. — CHRISTINA NUNEZ RODRIGUEZ

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016

MEMORIES OF DEVOTION My mother is not mother of the year — she is mother of a lifetime. She is in the final stages of Alzheimer's and has lost all ability to speak or communicate, but she is still my wonderful mother. I look at her, and I see the mother that tied my shoes and bandaged my scraped knees with a loving kiss. I see the strong woman who raised two young boys in the early 60s all alone. I see my mother who worked two jobs her whole life to provide a better life. I see a woman who, with only an eighth-grade education, opened and ran a successful business in Plant City for almost 40 years. When I look at my mother I see love, compassion and the will to be more — and she was more — much more. She gave credit to customers who she knew would never be back. She hired family to help them out in time of need. She was the strongest person I ever knew. When I look at my mother I see the woman who would sleep in a chair every night beside a little boy’s hospital bed. I had asthma and bad lungs and spent many nights in the hospital — but never alone. My mother was there. Her stare is blank and her memory is gone. She might not know who I am, but I know her, she's my momma — the greatest mother in the world. — RACHEL LYNN

SURVIVOR Looking at my mother, Terrie Jenkins, you wouldn't see anything special. She is an average woman, living an average life — on the outside. As her daughter, I can see how extraordinary she is and how much she has been through in life to get to the point she is at now. My mother was 17 years old when she had me and married my biological father at the mere age of 16. She was born and raised in Plant City, where she then raised me and my brother (who she gave birth to at the age of 19). By the time she was 20, she was divorced, a single mother to two children and battling cervical cancer. I often look back at my life and can't remember a single day when I wasn't happy and fed and clothed with a roof over my head. All because of my mother, the same woman who was thrown into motherhood without an ounce of support from her family or her ex-husband. The same woman who worked three jobs to make sure my brother and I had everything we needed. The same woman who survived cancer. I don't know how she did it. I don't know how she even found the time to be in the car rider line every day to pick my brother and me up from Cork Elementary School. But she did. Not a day goes that I don’t appreciate what she sacrificed for us. My mother is a survivor. She is strong, beautiful, and she is fierce. I am now 20 years old, and my brother is 18. She still makes sure we are taken care of, even though I do not live at home. Now that I am a mother, I appreciate her love more than I did before because I couldn't imagine being in her shoes. She is the best mother in the entire world, and she is an even better grandmother. I don't know what I'd do without her. Happy Mother’s Day, Mom. Tanner and I love you very much! — NICHOLE MOCK

TOUGH LADY My mother, Velia Carreon, is a person I know deserves mother of the year, as my mommy is a person who makes sure nothing is ever missing for her children or anyone she meets. If she knows you need food she would give you the last plate of food she has. She’s a mother who has got me through all my goals and through life. Whenever I wanted to quit, this lady would make sure I didn't and had me back on track. Whenever everyone gave up on me my mommy was always by my side telling me I could do it. She’s also a minister/pastor to a church, where she's admire a lot by people, and she’s also a mother figure for tons of the church people. She’s a person who, if you call her for advise or prayer at anytime, would be with you on the phone or at your house at anytime. My mommy is also a mother/nurse 24/7 to my handicap brother. She’s always with him and meets all his needs — even at night. There's nights she doesn't sleep when my brother is sick. She's doing her mother duties and caring for her child. And she also finds time to care for her health. There's tons more about her but if you meet her you would be surprised what a tough woman she is. — JEREMY CARREON

CONTINUED FROM RACE PAGE 1

2016 PLANT CITY COMMISSION SEAT 29.53% 554 VOTES

49.84%

Nate Kilton

935 VOTES

David Cook

20.46% 382 VOTES

Ricardo Coronado

30.75% 600 VOTES

69.25%

1,351 VOTES

Nate Kilton David Cook

"How can we continue the discussion in those areas," Kilton said. "I'm looking forward to it. I really respect everyone on the Commission, the city staff, the wonderful city manager." Kilton found out about his win while he was still at City Hall under his campaign tent. He was met with an applause by supporters when he entered The Corner Store. Because no candidate had 51% of the votes in the first election on April 5, the top two candidates had to participate in the runoff election May 3. Kilton led the April 5 election with 935 votes, 49.84% of the vote, and David Cook took second place with 554 votes, 29.53% of the vote. Ricardo Coronado had 382 votes, 20.46% of the votes.

David Cook served in the United States Marine Corps for over 20 years before retiring in 1994. He is a former law enforcement officer with the Lakeland Police Department. His platform included initiatives to protect the homeless and focus on the youth through a Police Club Athletic League and a millennial entrepreneurship club. Ricky Coronado, a local pastor, ran in the April 5 election. Through his work as a pastor he is involved with Marshall Middle School’s Gentleman’s Quest Club and the Everyday Blessings foster home based out of Thonotosassa. He wanted to focus on the youth in Plant City and make the Commission seat more accessible. Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

MAY 6, 2016

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FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016

Photos by Emily Topper

Far Left: Walking into the cafeteria, students signed their name on the logo of the college they will attend. Left: Popular schools of choice included Florida State University, the University of South Florida and the University of Florida. Above: Many students, such as Kamila Arbaleda, chose to go to nearby University of South Florida.

Soon, senior Chargers from Strawberry Crest High School will cross the stage at graduation and start their next chapter. For 135 students, the celebration of the next journey started early. On Wednesday, April 27, SCHS school officials hosted a congratulatory breakfast for seniors who had been admitted to college in Crest’s College Signing Day. SCHS reading teacher, Racquel Sturgis, brought Strawberry

Crest’s College Signing Day to life after hearing about a similar initiative from first lady Michelle Obama. Students signed their names next to their respective college logos and accepted certificates from SCHS Principal David Brown. Students enjoyed breakfast sponsored by local restaurants.

Hunter Dennis, Bianca Zavala, Danielle Oberle and Lindsey Prestwood

Kody Myers and Danielle Oberle

Reclaiming the land for future generations is

We asked: What’s the best thing in your closet?

Dylan Fonscca, 10

Keeley Knieriem, 9

“My black and white Nikes. They’re comfortable and go pretty well with some of my clothes.”

“This is my favorite shirt. I like the anchors, and it’s not too tight or too baggy.”

Ashlee Harrison, Reclamation Ecologist South Pasture Mine, Hardee County Luis Trejo, 10

Sierra McCoy, 10

“My sweater because it has blue and white stripes. It’s colorful.”

“This like, leather and silk vest. I really like leather, and it looks pretty on me.”

As an ecologist, I am part of a dedicated team that oversees the reclamation of Mosaic’s mined lands. Before phosphate operations begin, I work with scientists, engineers and environmental specialists to carefully plan for reclaimed land uses. Last year, those plans included planting more than 2 million trees — and reclaiming land for wildlife habitats, parks, agriculture and other productive uses. There’s a reason Mosaic’s 4,000 Florida employees are so passionate about reclamation: we know our kids and grandkids will enjoy these lands for generations to come. We help the world grow the food it needs.

Soledad Pineda, 10

Vanessa Gallegos, 12

“My shoes because my favorite color is pink, and they are hot pink.”

“My dress. It’s black and white. I wear it to restaurants and parties.”

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

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MAY 6, 2016

Above: Avanell and Lynn Crosby Right: Children raced toy ducks using water pumps.

Left: Kate and Anna Futch

Photos by Amber Jurgensen The path in the sunflower field is in the shape of a giant flower.

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 7, and Sunday, May 8 Where: 3002 Charlie Taylor Road Tickets: $1 for parking; $8 for adults; $7 for children; free ages 2 and under Info: FoxSquirrelCornMaze.com

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unflowers on the Ranch debuted last weekend at Single R Ranch and will be open again for Mother’s Day

weekend. Guests can walk through sunflower and wildflower fields, shop unique vendors, play games, see baby goats and enjoy snacks. — AMBER JURGENSEN

Attorneys on call 24/7 | Free consultation Criminal Defense Attorneys for Plant City • Seal and Expunge • DUI • DV Injunction • VOP • Drug Possession • All Misdemeanor and Felony Cases

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

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CONTACT US The Plant City Times & Observer is published once weekly, on Fridays. It provides free home delivery to several neighborhoods in Plant City. The Plant City Times & Observer also can be found in many commercial locations throughout Plant City and at our office, 1507 S. Alexander St., Suite 103. 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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SEND US YOUR NEWS We want to hear from you. Let us know about your events, celebrations and achievements. To contact us, send your information via: Email: Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@ PlantCityObserver.com. Mail: The Plant City Times & Observer, 1507 S. Alexander St., Suite 103, Plant City, FL 33563

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Family Owned & Operated Since 2006 • 19 Years Experience PLANT CITY TIMES &

Observer Publisher / Karen Berry, kdberry@inthefieldmagazine.com Managing Editor / Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@PlantCityObserver.com Sports Editor / Justin Kline, jkline@PlantCityObserver.com Staff Writer / Emily Topper, etopper@PlantCityObserver.com Circulation/Office Manager / Linda Lancaster, llancaster@PlantCityObserver.com

“If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.” — Friedrich Hayek, “Road to Serfdom,” 1944

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Meet Jake, the most wonderful Australian shepherd. He is a senior and retired from rustling cattle. He spends most of his day resting and walking the fence line around the property. If you call him he comes, running as fast as he can for a little loving. Owner Richard Kessler says, “You may see Jake and I walking up and down Midway Road. If you see us, stop and say, ‘Hello.’” Send your Cutest Critter Contest entries to Managing Editor Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016

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ALL ABOUT THAT BASS 1510 block of Plantation Grove Court. Vehicle burglary. Officer responded to a location in reference to a delayed vehicle burglary. Complainant said unknown suspect(s) had stolen a Pioneer Double DIN touchscreen head unit, a Clarion equalizer, four 8-inch Digital Designs mid-range speakers, six 10-inch Digital Designs mid-range speakers and two smart phones. The stolen items were valued at $1,332. FEEL THE RHYTHM 1400 block of Plantation Circle. Vehicle burglary. Officer responded to a location in reference to a delayed vehicle burglary. Complainant said unknown suspect(s) had stolen a 10-inch Sundown subwoofer, a 2000watt Soundstream amplifier, two 6.5-inch PRV speakers and a Pioneer Single DIN radio. The vehicle had been left unlocked. TAKEN TIMBS 2200 block of North Park Road. Vehicle burglary. Officers met with complainant, who said unknown suspect(s) stole a pair of Timberland

MAP MARAUDER 4810 block of South Dawn Meadow Court. Vehicle burglary. Officers responded to a residence in reference to a suspicious persons report. Complainant said unknown suspect(s) entered her vehicle and stole her GPS unit, which was valued at $200.

APRIL 24

WRENCHED AWAY 700 block of East Gilchrist Street. Vehicle burglary. Officer responded to a residence in reference to a reported vehicle burglary. Complainant said unknown suspect(s) stole several tools from his work van.

APRIL 25

CREDIT CROOK 600 block of Carolina Avenue. Theft/fraud. Officer responded to a residence in reference to a report of credit card fraud. Complainant said someone stole her husband’s wallet and used his GTE credit card. GIMME BACK MY BULLETS 1110 block of North Gordon Street. Found property. Officer responded to a church in reference to a suspicious persons report. Officer found a man sleeping behind the church and, after completing an information

CLEARED FOR TAKEOFF 4000 block of Airport Road. Burglary/grand theft. Complainant said unknown suspect(s) broke into a secure maintenance aircraft hangar at Plant City Airport. Suspect(s) then entered a 1979 Cessna plane and stole an aviation radio.

Check in often for daily updates

including pictures of items on this week’s auction!

Big Mike’s Auction House, LLC AB3182

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APRIL 26

LAUNDROMAT LURKER 3000 block of West Reynolds Street. Criminal mischief/molestation of a vending machine. Officer responded to a location in reference to a report of criminal mischief. It was reported that a man on a bicycle had been damaging washers and dryers. Officer made contact with the suspect, who was then arrested.

APRIL 28

LOCK YOUR CARS 300 block of North Howard Street. Vehicle burglary. Complainant said suspect(s) had been breaking into her unlocked Cadillac SUV over several nights. Complainant signed a waiver of prosecution but agreed to let the officer check the vehicle for fingerprints. None were found, and the complainant’s home was placed under special watch.

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VAN BAILIN’ 2000 block of East Timberlane Boulevard. Stolen vehicle. Officer responded to a residence in reference to a report of a stolen vehicle. Complainant said unknown suspect(s) stole her white 1994 Plymouth Voyager van.

GOOD SAMARITAN 400 block of North Alexander Street. Counterfeit. Officers met with complainant, who said she was in possession of a $10 bill she learned was counterfeit. Complainant turned the bill in to the officers.

report, the man turned over a bag of ammunition he said he had found in a dumpster. The ammo was placed into PCPD evidence for destruction.

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MAY 6, 2016

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It was an emotional send off for the 2015 Little Miss Plant City court.

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he stars shone bright at the 2016 Little Miss Plant City competition Saturday, April 30. The event’s theme was “Night of Stars,” and 29 girls walk the stage to win the crown. The 48th annual event is a fundraiser for the Junior Woman’s Club of Plant City. — AMBER JURGENSEN

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

OWNER’S REPORT

Two Hundred Issues Young

While working vigorously with Hillsborough County organizations, Plant City needs to build partnerships with other compatible area organizations and take charge of our own destiny.

There is a modest collection of business memorabilia in the waiting area outside of my main office. Prominent in that spot is an old newsstand with each issue from the Plant City Observer’s first full year of publication. The first edition ran that fateful July 4, 2012, when we were sponsors of the fireworks and celebrated the new locally-owned and operated weekly newspaper in Plant City. On the wall above the newsstand I have a copy of that first issue, signed by the employees, and a staff shirt displayed in a shadowbox. Last week, I took a moment to review that first paper and recalled how refreshing it was to see indepth coverage on the retiring Plant City fire chief and of the City Commission meeting and the color pictures of what the Fourth of July means to Plant City folk. The Plant City Observer, now the Plant City Times & Observer, has brought community happenings to us in print 200 times, as this is our 200th issue. It is impressive. As the Plant City Times & Observer hits its 200th issue I look back and reflect with no small amount of appreciation on the looming fourth anniversary of operations. For perspective, keep in mind how a monthly magazine would take over sixteen and one half years to accomplish 200 issues. And, of course, monthlies generally cover positive and uncontroversial activities (which is important and I appreciate them), but a newspaper must, at times, be concerned with contentious issues. We must cover crime or errors in government which need debate or attention. And let’s not forget our large commitment to local youth sports and athletics. This morning, as I reflected upon the depth of what 200 weekly issues really means, I recalled how I have read every issue of each paper that has emerged from the effort. The Plant City Times & Observer produces week after week — without pause —and with reporters and staff living and frequenting businesses and active in Plant City. It is a good paper.

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016

Why Plant City is strengthening its bond to Polk County

Co-owner Ed Verner has a copy of each edition of the Plant City Observer during its first year.

Though my involvement has been minimal, as an investor and reader, I enjoy a small amount of pride in knowing how I, joined with Observer Media Group CEO Matt Walsh, co-owners Felix Haynes and Nate Kilton, former Managing Editor Michael Eng and many others, helped those years ago to start something I believe is now a proven community asset. The Plant City Times & Observer is growing, and Plant City will increasingly need our weekly newspaper. I am glad we have one, and you should be as well. ED VERNER IS A CO-OWNER OF THE PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER.

It felt like history was being made: the mayors and city managers of Plant City and Lakeland, as well as business leaders from Hillsborough and Polk counties, met in a panel before an audience of nearly 150. The panel was part of a joint meeting between the Lakeland Economic Development Council and the Plant City Economic Development Corp. It took place at the new Sparkle Skirts facility, which is one of eight Central Florida Development Corporation County Line Road buildings. The two entities gathered to talk about what else — business. The Lakeland EDC achieved much success while current Plant City Manager Mike Herr was Polk County manager. Herr was hired to the Plant City post nearly two years ago with a charge from Mayor Rick Lott and the City Commission to build the same economic development powerhouse Herr had supported during his Polk County watch. As reported by Lakeland EDC’s Claudia Tritton, the top 10 distribution centers on the Lakeland side of County Line Road now include 7.4 million square feet of floor space, and the top 10 employers there employ over 10,500 workers. Those milestones have been achieved by the efforts of the Lakeland EDC and the City of Lakeland, after it invested in infrastructure along the east side of County Line Road. Following Lakeland’s successful development model, Herr said the City of Plant City will continue to invest in water and sewer infrastructure along the west side of County Line Road. Then the Plant City EDC, financed primarily by investments from East Hillsborough businesses, will do the work of marketing further development along County Line Road to new and existing businesses. This meeting demonstrated another important economic development strategy for Plant City: partnering with Lakeland.

FELIX HAYNES TIMES & OBSERVER CO-OWNER

But why, some may ask, when Plant City is a part of Hillsborough County, is it important to reach across the county line and work with Lakeland? Plant City has long worked with many Hillsborough County organizations. The city works with Hillsborough County government, county-wide planning organizations and the Tampa-Hillsborough Economic Development Corp. Branches of Hillsborough Community College and the Metro YMCA add much to our quality of life. But the resources of these countywide organizations are stretched, and sometimes needs in other parts of the county must be met first. So, while working vigorously with Hillsborough County organizations, Plant City needs to build partnerships with other compatible area organizations and take charge of our own destiny. Since Plant City’s market area includes Lakeland, it makes sense for Plant City to expand its reach eastward and strengthen our partnership with the Lakeland EDC. Plant City should and will continue to work with Hillsborough County organizations. But other factors propel us to look eastward, across our close-by Polk County border, and to partner with Lakeland. FELIX HAYNES IS A CO-OWNER OF THE PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER.

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

MARY E. BLOUNT

Mary E. Blount, 80, of Durant, died April 29, 2016. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, May 9, at Hopewell Funeral Home, 6005 CR 39 S. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 10, at Pleasant Grove A/G, 7051 Turkey Creek Road. Committal will follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Pleasant Grove A/G Building Fund. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com. VERNON EDWARD CRIBBS

Vernon Edward Cribbs, 95, of Plant City, died April 25, 2016, at his home. Mr. Cribbs was born Jan. 3, 1921, in Knights Station, Florida, to Drew Edward and Mary Jane (Douglas) Cribbs. He s e r ve d his country proudly during World War II in the United States Navy and was a firefighter for 32 years in Plant City, where he retired as a captain. He is preceded in death by his wife of nearly 50 years, Lawanna Cribbs. He is survived by his daughters, Fran Shivers (Len) and Suzanne Johnson; four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. The family will hold private services with military honors. Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com. CHRISTINA LYNN STAFFORD CROTTIER

PlantCityObserver.com

MAY 6, 2016

Christina Lynn Stafford Crottier, 36, of Litchfield, Minnesota, and formerly of Plant City, died April 15, 2016. Mrs. Crottier was born Oct. 1, 1979, to Daniel and Phyllis Stafford. She graduated from Durant High School. She loved her family, Jesus and making things with clay. She is survived by her parents; husband of 10 years, Billy Crottier; son, Zachary; daughter, Alexis; sister, Angela; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. A celebration of life was held April 30, at Countryside Baptist Church in Dover. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

AVICE SMOTHERS CURTH

Avice Smothers Curth, 86, of Lithia died Saturday, April 23, 2016. Mrs. Curth was the daughter of the late James and Bessie Loyed Hughes. She was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of LatterDay saints and loved to tend to her flower garden. She is survived by her children, Gail Renae Walker (Dennis), Rodney Bruce Smothers and Raymond Kent Smothers (Jill); stepchildren, Michael Curth and Howard Curth Jr; sister, Gussie Lawson Myers; 10 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Eddie Smothers and Howard Curth Sr.; and sisters, Odessa Laskie, Betty Crosby, Nadene Weber and Sadie Holcomb. A funeral service was held April 28, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Valrico. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com. MARY HELEN DAVIDSON

Mary Helen Davidson, 90, of Plant City, died April 20, 2016. Mrs. Davidson was born April 6, 1926, the second child of four, to Eva and Baden Carter in Trenton, Tennessee. In high school, she was a starting member of the girls’ varsity basketball team, as well as a member of the band. She met her future husband, Lonnie M. Davidson, at age 12 while visiting her older sister in Keiser, Arkansas. Upon his return from six years of service in World War II and Korea, the two were married on Sept. 16, 1948. Her role as the wife of an Army officer had begun, taking her to live in Europe and different states. She was known as the “Dolly Madison” of Army wives, serving as a gracious hostess to generals and the nation’s senior ambassador. Her children were born in different states: Pamela in Texas, Suzanne in Tennessee and Deborah in Georgia. As an Army wife, she had to quickly acclimate the family to new surroundings as her husband’s average tour of duty was three years. She would also be a single parent while her husband was away at duty. Upon her husband’s retirement, she led an active life. She was champion of the ladies’ golf in Walden Lake and an active member of First Presbyterian Church of Plant City, where she was recognized as Woman of the Year 2004 and served as Elder from 2003 to 2005.

Her hobbies included reading, golf and bridge. She was a talented still life watercolorist and also sang in Billy Graham’s Crusade Choir. She will be most remembered as a devoted wife to her husband and a caring mother to “her girls.” She is survived by her husband of 67 years, Col. Lonnie M. Davidson; sister, Lucille, of Dyer, Tennessee; daughters, Pamela Hotz (Donald), of Sacramento, California, Suzanne DiJiacomo (Louis), of Downingtown, Pennsylvania, and Deborah Davidson, of Santa Rosa, California; seven grandchildren; and 15 greatgrandchildren. A service of honor was held April 26, at First Presbyterian Church of Plant City. Burial will follow at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to the First Presbyterian Church of Plant City, 404 W. Reynolds St., Plant City, Florida 33563. The Charles E. Davis Funeral Home of Inverness, Florida, is assisting the family. “To God be the Glory.” BARRY LOWELL GRAHL

Barry Lowell Grahl, 83, died Monday, April 25, 2016, at his home following an illness. Mr. Grahl was born July 9, 1932 and was raised in Freeport, Illinois. He jo i n e d t h e United States Navy out of high school during the Korean Conflict. After exiting the Navy, he attended college and seminary in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was a faithful messenger of the Gospel in Michigan at Green Corners Baptist Church and Broadway Baptist; in Indiana at Windsor Village Baptist Church; and in Ohio at Calvary Baptist Church. He retired 21 years ago to Plant City. After moving to Florida, he taught Sunday school at First Baptist Church of Dover and ministered to the people of The Oaks RV Park. His hobbies included fishing, bowling and cruising the world with his beautiful bride. His passion, however, was proclaiming the Gospel. His love for his wife, Ann Clare Grahl, and family is only surpassed by his love for Jesus, in whose arms he now abides. He is survived by his wife of 60

years, Ann Clare Grahl; sons, Daniel Carl Grahl and Timothy Gordon Grahl; daughter, Faith Ann Spivey; six grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and sister, Sylvia Seagren. A memorial service was held April 28, at First Baptist Church of Dover. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Dover, 3223 N. Gallagher Road, Dover, Florida 33527, for the Nicaraguan mission trip. DEBORAH “DEBBIE” MAUTE

Deborah “Debbie” Maute, 71, of Plant City, died April 29, 2016, at Community Care Center in Plant City. Ms. Maute was born Oct. 10, 1944, in Savannah, Georgia, to the late Elmer and Lucille Maute. She was a longtime member of Pleasant Grove A/G Church, where she gladly served in the nursery for 30 years. She is survived by her sister, Andrea Blount, of Durant. A celebration of life was held May 5, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Committal followed at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Plant City. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com. HAROLD OWEN WHITEHURST

Harold Owen Whitehurst, 99, passed away in Live Oak, Florida, on April, 20, 2016, and was laid to rest at Friendship Baptist Church Cemetery on April 23. Prior to moving to Live Oak in 1988, Mr. Whitehurst resided in Plant City. He was born to William Phillip and Emily Leifeste Whitehurst on August 26, 1916 and had five siblings: Fritz, Willard, Frances, William and Buddy. He graduated from Plant City High School in 1934, served in the Civilian Conservation Corps in Alabama, did clerical work at shipyards in Pensacola and Tampa and ran a Texaco gas station in Plant City before being hired in 1947 by Clifford and Ethel Hardee to work in the office of Plant City Tank and Welding (Plant City Steel, HARSCO). He enjoyed a long, successful career there as executive vice president and part-owner until retiring in 1967 to pursue other interests. He eventually entered the real estate business as a sales associate at Gibbs Real Estate. He later obtained his brokers license and opened Whitehurst Realty adjacent to his self-serve storage facility on West Baker Street. He continued his real estate career

after moving to Live Oak. Anyone who knew him realized his strong Christian faith influenced every aspect of his life. The Bible was his guidebook, and he shared his love of God wherever he went. He was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church in Plant City, serving as a deacon, Sunday school teacher and leader of the Royal Ambassadors, a Christian organization for young men. He was a charter member of Whitehurst Road Baptist Church, which he assisted in establishing on property donated by the William Phillip Whitehurst family. He continued his service there as a deacon, Sunday school teacher and Royal Ambassadors leader. He was a member of Friendship Baptist Church in Live Oak at the time of his death. He was a loving, devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. His children adored him and considered him their hero. He was always there for them with an arm around their shoulder and an encouraging word. He never met a stranger and thought the best of everyone. He derived great satisfaction from helping others and insisted on doing so without recognition. He had a great love of travel. He flew planes, rode motorcycles (once to Alaska) and drove his trusty Volkswagon Camper down the backroads of America. He fell in love with Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and bought a mountain cabin to surround himself with the grandeur and beauty of Grand Teton. He lived life to the fullest and touched many lives along the way. His memory will be cherished by all who loved him. He is survived by his wife, Madonna Whitehurst; daughter, Sylvia Wilson; son, Phillip (Kathy) Whitehurst; grandchildren, Mark, Chad, Daniel, Stephanie (Johnny), Rebecca (Kyle) and Regan; six greatgrandchildren; one great-great grandchild; and an extended family of loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Hilton; former wife and mother of his children, Willamae Whitehurst; and siblings. A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 7, at Whitehurst Road Baptist Church, 901 Whitehurst Road, Plant City. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of him may want to consider the Florida Baptist Children’s Home in Lakeland or Gideons International.

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

SATURDAY, MAY 7

BIKE FEST 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, May 7, at Union Station Depot, 102 N. Palmer St. Event features include a bike show and competition, live music, food and crafting vendors, restaurants, shops and other activities. Bike show registration is from 5 to 7 to p.m. with such categories as Custom, Bagger, Harley, Vintage (pre ’90), Anything Goes, Trike, Stock and Lady Rider. There is a $10 entry per class. First and second place are awarded. All paid entries compete in the Best of Show and People’s Choice Trophies. KRAZY KUP KING LOUIE’S KOURTYARD RIBBON CUTTING 4 p.m. Saturday, May 7, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. See the coffehouse’s new dining area in a courtyard alley. SUNFLOWERS ON THE RANCH 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 7, to Sunday, May 8, at 3002 Charlie Taylor Road N. Venture through a sunflower maze for spring. Adult tickets are $8; children are $7; ages 2 and under are free. Parking is $1. FoxSquirrelCornMaze.com.

MONDAY, MAY 9

RELAY FOR LIFE PLANT CITY WRAP-UP PARTY 6 p.m. Monday, May 9, at First Baptist Church of Plant City, 503 N. Palmer St.

SATURDAY, MAY 7 BLUE BAYOU BLUEBERRY U-PICK 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 7, and Sunday, May 8, at 2301 Leaning Pine Lane. (813) 8086208.

Saturday, May 14, at Plant City Church of God, 2103 Mud Lake Road. Tickets are $45 for adults, $35 for youth. Coach Bobby Bowden is one of the featured speakers. Call (813) 220-5296 for more information.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 11

CONTACT BREAKFAST 7:15 a.m. Wednesday, May 11, at the John R. Trinkle Center, 2206 E. Cherry St. Buffet breakfast will be served before the program begins at 7:30 a.m. Speaker is Judge Ron Ficarrotta. RSVP to the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce by Friday, May 6, at (813) 754-3707.

THE RAINMAKER 8 p.m. Friday, May 13, to Saturday, May 14; and Friday, May 20, to Saturday, May 21; and 2 p.m. Sunday, May 15, and Sunday, May 22, at Plant City Entertainment, 101 N. Thomas St. Tickets are $16 for adults; $14 for students and seniors; $12 from groups of 10 or more. PCEShows.com.

UROLOGY FACTS FOR MEN 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 11, at South Florida Baptist Hospital’s Community Conference Room, 301 N. Alexander St. Registration is required. The event is free. (813) 644-6720.

YMCA FAMILY MATTERS SEMINAR 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, May 13, and Friday, May 20, at the Plant City Family YMCA, 1507 YMCA Place. The free, two-day seminar is open to the community. There will be refreshments. For more information, contact Membership Director J.J. Myers at (813) 757-6677 or joshua.myers@ tampaymca.org.

THURSDAY, MAY 12

TUESDAY, MAY 10

54TH ANNUAL EAST HILLSBOROUGH LAW ENFORCEMENT ASSOCIATION BANQUET 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 10, at the Florida Strawberry Festival Expo Hall, 2301 W. Oak Ave. The dinner will celebrate law enforcement officers, who put their lives at risk

REVERSE RAFFLE 6 p.m. Thursday, May 12, at Brew Hub, 3900 Frontage Road S., Lakeland. You must purchase a ticket in advance to attend. Contact the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce at (813) 754-3707.

FRIDAY, MAY 13

ONGOING

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. 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 and their caregivers.

MOTION COMMOTION 10 a.m. Tuesdays, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. Move to the rhythm, dance to the beat. Shake and shimmy, tap those feet. Family time is

MUD ENDEAVOR 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, May 14, at 29251 Wildlife Lane, Brooksville. The mud run has a

CHRISTIAN MEN UNITED CONFERENCE 7 p.m. Friday, May 13, and 8 a.m.

100-foot elevation change with obstacles, including a waterslide, and a viewing area on top of an old mine. MudEndeavor.com.

KEEL AND CURLEY LIVE MUSIC 6:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. (813) 7529100.

SATURDAY, MAY 14

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016

motion time with this 30-minute program that incorporates music, literacy, and fitness. For children ages 18 months to 5 years and their caregivers.

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NIGHT OWLS STORYTIME 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. The library is a hoot at night. Children are invited to wear pajamas and bring a blanket and favorite cuddly toy for stories, songs and activities during this 30-minute program. For children ages 3 to 7 years and their caregivers. O’BRIEN’S LIVE MUSIC 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub & Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818. OPEN MIC NIGHT 8 p.m. Wednesdays, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 7648818. TEEN NIGHT 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. (813) 757-9195. THRIFT STORE 5 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays at Springhead Baptist Church’s education building, 3106 S. Wiggins Road. WALKING CLUB 8 a.m. Wednesdays at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. The club will meet at the library and walk around the neighborhood. Contact Susan Miles at (813) 757-9215.

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SPORTS

xx xx. Page xx Crest’s Scottie Todd catches the final out. Page 14

“I’ve never seen girls get along this well. They’re playing well. They’re playing together.” — coach Mindy Miltner

Do you have a good sports scoop for us? Email Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

Local ‘celebs’ at track regionals Three past Plant City Times & Observer Athlete of the Week winners qualified for states at the FHSAA 4A-Region 2 championships Saturday, April 30. Durant’s Haftom Fliegelman placed third in the boys 3,200m run with a time of 9:45.25 and placed fourth in the 1,600m with a time of 4:27.91. Plant City High’s Keyon Johnson had a fourthplace time of 22.22 in the 200m dash. The Plant City High boys 4x400 and 4x800 relay teams also broke some school records that day, with respective times of 3:31 (fifth place) and 8:19 (seventh place). Strawberry Crest’s Terra Brooks placed second in both the long jump (1709.00) and the triple jump (36-11.00).

Tri-Star Soccer this weekend The 19th annual Optimist Soccer Tri-Star Skills Competition will make its way back to the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex Saturday, May 7. The free competition tests boys and girls, ages 6 to 14, on their soccer skills. Registration will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. the day of the competition. Kids in the youth soccer league can compete after their 8:30 a.m. game or before their later games. For more information, call (813) 659-4255.

2016 goes down as the first year Strawberry Crest’s softball team will play in a state championship series. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS EDITOR

indy Miltner’s gotten enough Gatorade baths over the years to flood the

softball team clubhouse. But the only head coach in Strawberry Crest High School’s program

P.C. Rays AllStars need help The Plant City Rays 8U Machine Pitch All-Stars have three tournaments to attend and are looking for sponsors to cover costs. The group is looking for businesses or benefactors and is offering to make banners to advertise donors during its games. It’s looking for $1,020 to cover uniform costs, and $750 for tournament fees. Those interested in helping can contact Chris Fry at (813) 526-0757, or email him at DaddyFryChris@yahoo.com.

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

MMA training is no joke

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS EDITOR

I don’t want anyone reading that headline to assume I ever thought martial arts training was a joke. It’s just, last week, I got to experience it for myself. Before I wrote last week's feature on the Cross Guard Brazilian jiujitsu competition team, owner/head instructor Sam Kimmel encouraged me to try a few group training sessions. I’m not quite where I used to be SEE KLINE PAGE 14

history never felt as good about those showers of sports drinks and ice cubes as she did Friday, April 29. That one happened because, for the first time ever, Crest’s girls made it to the FHSAA state championship series. “This was huge for us,” Miltner says. Photos by Justin Kline

The Lady Chargers had never won a regional final before last week’s win over Oakleaf.

SEE SOFTBALL PAGE 13

Strong Follow Through

ABOUT FIRST TEE

First Tee program for kids teaches on-course golf skills, as well as life skills. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS EDITOR

A major key to running a successful youth sports program is to have a passion for the game. Fortunately for Plant City-area families, First Tee golf instructor Justin Cohen has it in spades. Cohen runs the Plant City wing of the First Tee of Tampa Bay umbrella, which is one of 175 chapters across the country. First Tee teaches children golf fundamentals and life skills. Cohen has eight students he teaches in classes that run roughly 80 minutes. “Their enjoyment fuels my enjoyment,” Cohen said. “I see them smiling, it makes me happy, and I get to watch them learn. They’re the next generation. It’s wonderful.” Cohen has been running the Walden Lake program for the last four years but has been involved with First Tee for 11 years. He’s been in his students’ shoes — and it makes the job even easier for him to do. “I grew up one of these kids,” Cohen said. “I just decided that this is what I want to do for a living. I want to coach.” On a typical day, the first 15 minutes

Photo by Justin Kline

First Tee’s Plant City operations are based at Walden Lake Golf and Country Club.

of Cohen’s sessions consist of safety discussions, golf talk and the importance of life skills. First Tee promotes numerous golf concepts, including the four R’s (replay, relax, ready, redo) and S.T.A.R. (stop to take a deep breath, think of choices, anticipate what could happen and respond with the best choice). It also promotes nine specific life skills: confidence, sportsmanship, respect, judgment,

courtesy, integrity, responsibility, honesty and perseverance. Cohen tends to integrate one to two of the nine life skills in his lessons each week. Saturday, April 30, for example, the group read about confidence before hitting the putting green. After five minutes of stretching, the kids spend most of the class with SEE GOLF PAGE 13

The First Tee program is about 20 years old and has 175 chapters across the country. The Tampa chapter — the umbrella which Walden Lake falls under — is one of the largest in the organization. It teaches 57,000 elementary school students in their physical education classes. Its on-course lessons, taught at Tampa Bay-area golf courses, run almost year round. “The goal of the lessons, besides teaching our life skill curriculum, core values and healthy habits, is to get them team certified — developing their skills enough to where they could join a First Tee team and play nine holes on a regular basis with coaches and other kids,” Ian Baxter, First Tee of Tampa Bay executive director, said.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016

•WANTED• Registered Democrats in Congressional District 15.

ver 100 local golfers flocked to Walden Lake Friday, April 22, to drive, chip and putt for kids. The DEX Children's Classic Golf Tournament, sponsored by South Florida Baptist Hospital, Kiwanis and the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, will use funds raised at the event to help 12,000 needy area children and families through local charities and programs.

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We need your vote May 7th, 2016 at Bruton Memorial Library or West Tampa Library between 10am-2pm

Anita Balch (813) 756 -3184 or (808) 722 - 5821

— JUSTIN KLINE

Photos by Justin Kline

Above: The weather was perfect for a day of golf Far Left: Over 100 golfers signed up for the tournament. Left: Gene and Carol Pliska Below: George Maurer, Phil Noury, Mark Feegel, Ron Glass and Buddy Eutsler

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doesn’t happen at once: you have to practice, practice and keep working at it. Even I struggle at times with focusing — everybody does.” First Tee also gives young golfers the ability to play on teams, once their instructors feel they’ve improved

Softball: off to states CONTINUED FROM 12

HOW THEY DID IT

The first thing that jumps off the page about this Crest team is its ability to get on base. The Lady Chargers reach base safely just over 40% of the time and carry a solid .332 batting average as a team. Seven of its top 11 hitters (with at least 20 games played) are batting over .270 individually. Senior Kasey Locke leads that group with a .474 average. Locke leads the offense in just about every hitting statistic: batting average, slugging percentage (.747 — 20 games or more), hits (45), RBI (25), doubles (11), triples (three) and home runs (three). But when this team gets going, anyone can be a threat. Take the district championship game, a 10-0 win over Wharton. Crest scored 10 runs on 18 hits, with nine RBI. Locke went 4-for-4 with two RBI and a run, and senior Rebecca Roberts went 3-for-3 with three RBI and a run. Ashleigh Vogt, Brandy Ashmore, Scottie Todd and Taylor Finney each picked up more than one hit in that game and, of that group, only Todd did not score a run. Take the regional final, against Oakleaf. Finney got to play heroine by going 2-for-3 with a two-RBI single — the runs that would later prove to be the daggers. Five batters — Finney, Ashmore, Roberts, Kaylan Kelly and Stephanie Dwyer — drove in runs that evening. Also helping the Chargers from the pitching mound is Todd, who has had a great season: 2.10 ERA, 17 wins, 83 strikeouts and a .217 batting average. Other teams reach base just 26% of the time when the senior ace is throwing the ball, and she’s shown that she can dominate big games (one hit, two walks allowed against Wharton) and get out of jams in others (including two against Oakleaf). “I’m pretty excited to get back out there on the field and for us to give it our all,” Todd says. But, the number one key to success

everyone in the program points to? Chemistry. “I’ve never seen girls get along this well,” Miltner says. “They’re playing well. They’re playing together.” Considering the caliber of talent Miltner has seen come through Dover in her seven seasons with the program, that says a lot. And, given the result of Crest’s efforts this season, it’s believable. The only thing the team will have to worry about is how it’ll handle a completely new situation. VS. BARTOW

Crest will take on the Bartow Lady Yellow Jackets, one of the more storied programs in the state. This year marked the 18th time Bartow has made it to the state semifinals, tying a record set by Naples High School. MaxPreps.com has the team ranked 13th in the state of Florida and 97th in the nation — compared to rankings of 67th and 852nd, respectively, for the Lady Chargers. Bartow is led on the mound by freshman ace Jaden Williamson, who boasts a 1.04 ERA and holds opposing batters to a paltry .189 average. She allows runners to get on base a little more frequently than Todd but has still been a fearsome pitcher for the Lady Yellow Jackets. The team edges out Crest in most offensive categories, but the Lady Chargers have been more successful on the basepaths (24 steals to Bartow’s 18) and on defense (94% success rate to Bartow’s 93%). The Friday, May 6, matchup will be a tough test. And, if they win, there will be an even more difficult setup against the winner of ClearwaterCountryside and Fort Lauderdale-St. Thomas Aquinas. Fortunately for Crest fans, teams don’t make it this far by accident. “I just want them to play hard and play like we’ve been doing in this postseason, and we’ll be OK,” Miltner says. Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

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This year, First Tee will hold a summer camp at Walden Lake. The eight-week program operates on a week-to-week basis. Families can sign up for as little as one week at a time if they wish. For a full pricing breakdown, scholarship opportunities, group lesson and summer camp signups, visit TheFirstTeeTampaBay. org.

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IF YOU GO Where: Historic Dodgertown, 3901 26th St., Vero Beach, FL 32960 When: 4:05 p.m. Friday, May 6, and 5:35 p.m. Saturday, May 7 (if Crest advances) Locations: Friday, field 9; Saturday, field 8 Cost: $9 per game ticket; $10 to park; cash only CAN’T MAKE IT? Friday webcast: NFHSNetwork.com; Saturday TV broadcast on Bright House Sports Network, webcast on BHSNLive. com SEE IT To view a map of Dodgertown, visit FHSAA.org/sports/softball and scroll to “Florida High School Softball State Championships.”

Contact Bill

(813) 690-9929

205342

clubs in hand. Usually, Cohen will take them onto the putting green or driving range or to an area where they can chip. Sometimes, as was the case last week, he’ll bring them onto a hole to play a mock scramble, guiding the kids along the way and even playing with them. It gives kids the full experience — which, on Saturday, included an angry golfer carting behind them complaining about playing too slowly. But that’s golf. The last five minutes of the day, Cohen summarizes what the kids learned. According to Cohen, the number one thing his students need help with isn’t physical. “They have to understand the mental part of golf,” Cohen says. “It all

SUMMER CAMP

enough to compete. These teams give their golfers books to read and homework assignments based on them. Unfortunately for Plant City families, First Tee does not field a team at Walden Lake. Local golfers have to travel around eastern Hillsborough County to join teams once they’re able. Cohen is optimistic the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World will be able to field a team in the future. “We have so many great kids out here that have the passion for it,” Cohen says. “I would love to see a team come out here and play nine holes every afternoon.”

Ricardo L. Berrios, M.D.

Navigation to Wealth Creation PLANT CITY 1907 S. Alexander St., Ste. 2 Plant City, FL 33566 | (813)752-6604 BRANDON 329 Pauls Dr. Brandon, FL 33511 | (813)689-9297

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FROM GOLF PAGE 12

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

MAY 6, 2016

Scottie Todd

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

physically. I embraced the natural dad-bod before Seth Rogen made it mainstream. But I was immediately interested. I ended up training for three days. Here’s where I learned one of Kimmel’s favorite philosophies: if you can nail your technique when you’re tired, you can succeed when it counts. There were 6 to 10 of us each day in the school, a tiny room in the front of the NAPA Auto Parts store on Collins Street Kimmel uses every inch of. From 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., the air conditioning was turned off, the reggae music was turned up and we were doing cardio workouts until our legs begged for mercy. It was the circle of death: dozens of sprawl jumps. One hundred burpees. Five hundred reps of crunches, light push-ups, leg exercises and skydivers. Then more sprawl jumps added in for good measure. Medicine-ball squats, rope work, jump-rope endurance, switch kicks (mimics running in place, but slightly more dangerous to anyone in front of you), and, did I mention sprawl jumps? It all adds up. This only lasts about 30 minutes, which is what everyone from doctors to my dad recommend for anyone’s daily cardio routine, but it was easily the most intense cardio I’ve ever done. I wanted to pat myself on the back for not throwing up on the first day, but that might have caused me to throw up. At the halfway mark of each day, we all got on the ground for the grappling lessons. Kimmel is one

Photo by Amber Jurgensen

Justin Kline learned how to roll.

of those instructors who does the workouts with you, so he’s feeling the burn, yet his technique is excellent. As I expected, most of my classmates had a pretty good handle on the techniques. Each hold took some time to learn but, in the end, I got the hang of most of them. The last 15 minutes of each day were devoted to rolling, where we each partnered up and grappled until someone tapped out. While I spent most of my rolling time getting locked into armbars (I relied too much on takedown moves), there were times when things clicked. I’m pleased to say that, even though I couldn’t nail every cardio workout and my left arm got trapped in more submission holds than I’d like to admit, I did the classes with no training wheels and lived to write about it. Contact Justin Kline at jkline@ plantcityobserver.com.

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You got into some tight spots in the third and sixth innings, but you also managed to get yourself out of them. What did you tell yourself then to get focused? I just kind of told myself that my team was behind me and, no matter what, I knew that we would come through and they would be there for me.

that’s what did it for me. When did you first know you wanted to pitch? When I was in fourth grade I went to Newsome High School and saw a game, and I saw this girl pitching. She later became a huge part of my life, and she inspired me to be a pitcher. How so? She was a big role model for me, growing up. She went on to play college, and I got to know her better. Her name is Ashley Stubbs. Let’s put you in her shoes. A fourth-grader comes up to you now and asks for advice on how to pitch better. What do you tell her? I would say to stick with it. You have to decide early on if it’s something you want to do. It’s extra work. If you just stay with it, it’ll pay off.

How did it feel to make the final out? It was a relief for the game to be over, for the win to be locked in. What’s been the most fun thing about this season, so far? Probably just, after the wins, how we all run into one team hug. It’s a unified thing. It just feels really good to be a part of something bigger than yourself. What will you major in next year? I’m in between political science and economics. I don’t have to decide until the second semester of my sophomore year, so I’m just going to see what interests me more or possibly double major.

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Is there any sport you’ve never tried, but always wanted to? I think rowing crew, that’s something I’d want to try. We do the rowing machines a lot, and it seems like it would be fun.

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There were many reasons why Strawberry Crest pulled out a win against Oakleaf in the Friday, April 29, FHSAA softball regional finals: timely hitting, big defensive plays and solid pitching come to mind. About that last one: senior ace Scottie Todd showed off her versatility on the mound, dominating some innings and escaping jams in others. She even caught the final out. Todd wins a $25 gift card from GNC at Walden Woods. She can pick up the gift card at the Plant City Times & Observer office, 1507 S. Alexander St. #103.

813.388.7575

Why did softball stick for you? It’s more about being a team — it’s not an individual sport. I think

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The Book of Revelation is frequently ignored or misunderstood by Christians. However, when properly interpreted, it presents a clear picture of a process God will use that will result in the Rightful Ruler of this world, Jesus Christ, reclaiming the earth and instituting the Kingdom of God as promised to Israel in the Old Testament and to the Church in the New Testament. Jesus instructs His followers to “be anxious for nothing.” The root of this instruction is that God is sovereign, is active in this world and has an unalterable plan. The Book of Revelation provides the final piece of that plan and when understood by believers will result in a peace and optimism regarding the future. This class will be taught on Tuesday mornings from 9 to 11:40 am begi ning on May 10th and for those whose schedule requires, the class will be repeated each Thursday evenings beginning at 6:30 pm. The first class meetings the week of May 9th are open to the general public. Evangelical College and Seminary Located at:

Liberty Baptist Church

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2505 Granfield Ave. Plant City, Florida 33563 813 - 365 - 1105, evangelical-college.org

ECS

Evangelical College & Seminary (ECS) was established to provide biblical teaching and training of the highest quality to the Plant City community. The Focus is on teaching “sound doctrine” (Titus 1:9), “teaching others to teach others” (II Timothy 2:2), and teaching “the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27), The school is rooted in the biblically based principle that God’s plan for every believer is spiritual maturity based solely on the Word of God.

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SING OUT LOUD June 4th Vocal Talent Show Elementary | Middle School | High School Grand Prize: Music Video Shoot st 1 Place/Age Group: 2 Hr Recording Session Visit nrg.ticketleap.com/nrg for tickets. A portion of the proceeds go to Plant City Entertainment.

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

FORECAST

SUNRISE / SUNSET

FRIDAY, MAY 6

High: 77 Low: 58 Chance of rain: 0%

SATURDAY, MAY 7 High: 83 Low: 60 Chance of rain: 0%

Sunrise Sunset

Friday, May 6

6:45a

8:06p

Saturday, May 7

6:44a

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Sunday, May 8

6:43a

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Monday, May 9

6:43a

8:07p

Tuesday, May 10

6:42a

8:08p

Wednesday, May 11

6:41a

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Thursday, May 12

6:41a

8:09p

High: 83 Low: 63 Chance of rain: 0%

May 6 New

MONDAY, MAY 9 High: 89 Low: 68 Chance of rain: 0%

May 29 Last

Shipping point: Orlando

Courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture

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Friday, April 29

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YEAR TO DATE:

MAY TO DATE:

2016 6.82 in.

2016 0.40 in.

1.93 in.

2015 0.00 in.

2015

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2. V I P W O 3. F Q X P Z A L 4. D X P B 5. J O X P T W

She is a wife and mother of three residing in Hilldale:

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Solve the puzzle by placing the numbers 1 May 5 (Easy, difficulty rating 0.44) through 9 in each row, column and box.

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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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Kate wins a free car wash from Octopus Car Wash. She can claim the wash with an ID at Octopus Car Wash, 1503 S. Collins St.

May 21 Full

Thursday, April 28

2 May 5 (Easy, difficulty rating 0.44)

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Kate Luke says, “The only reason I enjoy getting up so early for school is being able to take pictures of breathtaking Plant City sunrises. It’s like I can feel the whole world waking up.”

RAINFALL

SWEET CORN

May 13 First

FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016

I LOVE PLANT CITY

MOON PHASES

SUNDAY, MAY 8

DOWN

1 Dickensian outburst 2 “___, poor Yorick!” 3 Euros supplanted them 4 Blood fluids 5 Ever again 6 Furrier’s item 7 Pari-mutuel machine 8 Hamilton’s prov. 9 Japanese art of flower arranging 10 Holiday singer 11 Puts on a puss 12 Apple music player 13 Berkeley school, informally 14 Baron Cohen character ___ G 15 Stephen of the Supreme Court 16 Hadrian’s domain 17 Hunter who wrote “The Blackboard Jungle” 18 River of Siberia 24 Huge amount 26 Job jar item 29 Take five 32 Mockingbird, e.g. 33 Chain unit 34 Greenberg in Cooperstown 35 Leary of Ford ads 36 Role for Madonna 37 British troupe known for slapstick

38 Tiny Tim’s instrument 39 Tut-tutted 40 NFL coaching legend Don 41 Treat on a popsicle stick 42 Took down 43 Prods 46 Takes part in a scheme 49 Grow dark 50 Epps of “House M.D.” 52 “Just the facts, ___” 54 Slack-jawed one 55 Doo-wop song, say 56 Nick of “Lorenzo’s Oil” 57 Make off with 58 Ring-tailed primate 62 Father, biblically 64 Iowa State city 65 Chip giant 66 Little shavers 67 Paul of “American Graffiti” 68 Battery terminal 69 Notable Titanic casualty 70 Athens attractions 72 Like some pool balls 73 Members of the jury 75 Chair designer Charles 76 Bitter ___ (purgative) 79 Fresh-mouthed 81 ___ broche (skewered)

83 Slow on the uptake 84 Footnote’s “the same” 85 Of a tribal emblem 86 Pressed for time 87 Laugh-a-minute 89 Places for roasters 91 Minstrel poet 93 Not worth the bother 94 Proposal details, briefly 95 Cartesian adverb 96 Bird on a Canadian dollar 97 Handed-down tales 98 Eluded the tag 99 Assault from 77-Across 100 Pit stop item 101 Paradise lost 102 Texter’s button 104 Go for the gold 105 The last word 107 Mekong Valley native 108 ___ Tafari (Haile Selassie)

158000-1 203299

W EAT HER

PlantCityObserver.com

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

MAY 6, 2016

Joint Pain Relief

Free Community Education Seminar

Total Joint Replacement Options An orthopedic surgeon discusses advanced treatment options such as robotic surgery for common hip and knee pain or arthritis.

Thursday, May 19 | 6â&#x20AC;&#x201C;8pm South Florida Baptist Hospital Community Conference Room 301 N. Alexander St., Plant City

Scott E. Goldsmith, MD Orthopedic Surgeon

To register: (813) 644-4302 | BayCareOrthoEvents.org

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BC1603238-0416