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Mark Rutherford biked over 100 miles for a fundraiser ride.

by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer OUR TOWN economics

City hosts economic forum The event, called ‘Plant City. Right. Now.’ highlighted the ways that Plant City is open for business.

+ Welcome to the team, Emily

The Plant City Times & Observer has hired a new staff writer.

Emily Topper is originally from Winter Park and comes to us after graduating from Flagler College in St. Augustine with a bachelor’s degree in communication.

She will be taking the place of staff writer Catherine Sinclair, who is transferring to the West Orange Times & Observer in anticipation of her October wedding to fellow Observer reporter, Zak Kerr.

Congratulations to both as they step into their new roles.

Last week, Plant City business leaders, city employees and other members of the community gathered for “Plant City. Right. Now.,” an economic development forum that will ideally become an annual event.

“Today, we are here to show

you how Plant City is poised for economic development,” Mayor Rick Lott said at the start of the seminar. “We are ready for new businesses to find their home in our community. We are prepared to help existing businesses grow their market share.”

The event, held Wednesday, May 6, was a joint partnership among the City of Plant City, the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce and the Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation.

Perhaps the most interest-

ing highlights were updates from four developers on major developments coming to Plant City: Lakeside Station Logistics Park, commercial property along County Line Road, Varrea, and North Park Isles.

Bob Appleyard, from Transcend Development, discussed the Lakeside Station Logistics Park, which is right

SEE FORUM / PAGE 4

CITY COMMISSION

SNAPPED by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor

by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer

Fitlife Foods to expand into P.C.

The Tampa-based company will be operating a new culinary center off of County Line Road.

+ Hanlon selected for sports board

The National Alliance for Youth Sports is proud to announce the formation of an inaugural CYSA Leadership Committee. Tim Hanlon, assistant program manager of the City of Plant City Recreation and Parks Department and certified youth sports administrator, joins 25 other CYSAs as founding members of the committee.

The CYSA Leadership Committee brings together youth sports administrators to further promote the need for education and professional standards of those overseeing youth sports programs. The committee will also help guide policy and standards in youth sports programming and administration.

“I am excited to be a part of the inaugural CYSA Leadership Committee and look forward to working

Keaunia Kaa’a won the top prize in a photography contest out of 77 submissions.

Amber Jurgensen

FOCAL POINT Plant City High School senior Keaunia Kaa’a was inspired by the beauty of Disney princesses and the beauty of the healing process from cancer.

T

he red light of the hidden darkroom at the end of the H hall in Plant City High School creates mysterious shadows on the high cheekbones of Keaunia Kaa’a’s face. It was in that enigmatic corner that the senior art student created a portrait of luminescence and a beacon of hope in her photograph, “Love Conquers All.” The work took overall winner in the Frameworks of Tampa Bay contest out of 77 submissions.

Kaa’a steps out of the quiet haven into a classroom buzzing with art students. The low droning of a beat-up hairdryer murmurs in the background as one of the students dries a painting. Others chat while finishing their pieces.

“I thought it was a joke,” Kaa’a said about her win.

There was a good reason she didn’t think the award was hers: the contest organizers called to inform her on April Fools’ Day. She received the

OUR TOWN / PAGE 4

, 3&

SEE PHOTO / PAGE 4

This week’s winner is

Sandy Van Vooren See his photo on PAGE 15.

Catherine Sinclair

City Manager Mike Herr gave a presentation about Midtown.

SEE FITLIFE / PAGE 4

governance

by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer

Hillsborough commission seeks legal fees from Keel The state ethics commission will decide whether Keel is liable for funds used to defend Al Higginbotham.

Keaunia Kaa’a

Fellow classmates Morgan Napper and Luis Arellono modeled.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR KEAUNIA

The Plant City High School senior will graduate this spring and hopes to attend a community college in Jacksonville where her uncle lives. She’s not sure what she wants to study, but she knows for certain she wants to keep photography as a hobby.

“AP psychology ruined me,” Kaa’a said. “I’m scared that if I do something I love and get paid to do it, it will take the fun out of it.”

INDEX Calendar.....................10

Fitlife Foods, a line of prepared health foods, has announced that it will expand its operations into Central Florida Development’s new spec building along County Line Road.

This location is expected to offer more than 100 jobs, and several million dollars in capital investment in eastern Hillsborough County in the next two years.

David Osterweil, CEO of

The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners is seeking reimbursement for legal expenses that resulted from Commissioner Al Higginbotham’s defense against an ethics complaint filed by Joe Keel, president of Keel and Curley Winery.

If the board’s petition is accepted by the Florida Commission on Ethics, Keel will be required to pay at least $9,600 to the county — but likely, more than $15,000, according to Higginbotham’s attorney.

SEE PETITION / PAGE 4 Vol.2,No.33 | Twosections

Crossword...................15

Obituaries...................14

Sports...........................5

Weather......................15

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GREEN THUMB by Devon Higginbotham | Florida Native Plant Society

Roadside Wildflowers Ordinarily, the drive from Plant City to Tallahassee is too long and boring to handle without substantial amounts of coffee. But this spring, I was delighted to find the roadside ablaze in wildflowers — enough to skip Starbucks.

For years FDOT has mowed the right-of-ways along its 12,000 miles of roads the width of a football field.

But working with the Florida Native Plant Society and the Florida Wildflower Foundation, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of native wildflowers on our roadways. Not only does it draw tourists, as the changing leaves in the North, but the state is realizing the importance of utilizing these greenspaces as “biological corridors” that will increase habitat for pollinator species, while saving the taxpayer’s money by cutting back on mowing.

When they must mow for safety, contractors are now mowing around the growing plots to allow the seedheads to dry and drop their seeds for the next bloom.

If you prefer the backroads to the major highways and are traveling this spring, keep your eyes open for naturally occurring stands of our native wildflowers.

Many of our urban areas have been mowed, herbicided or plowed under with road construction, prohibiting the growth of wildflowers. But in the rural areas, large swaths are respectfully neglected and left to the wild abandons of nature. These areas abound with wildflowers. The road less traveled — and less mowed — is where nature’s beauty is put on display for all to admire.

These are my favorites:

Tickseed (Coreopsis)

This perky spring bloomer has yellow daisy-shaped petals with a brown center and stands about 3 feet tall on a seemingly leafless stalk.

The leaves are very long and slender and resemble the sturdy stalk. Each plant has multiple blooms and grows in close groups. One common variety in our area, known as Leavenworth’s tickseed, was

Meadow-beauty (Rhexia)

Fleabane (Erigeron)

Tickseed (Coreopsis) named for Dr. Leavenworth (1796-1862), who was a Yale graduate and army surgeon stationed in 1838 at Fort King, near Tampa, during the Second Seminole Indian War. The Coreopsis was named our state wildflower in 1991. (dos. myflorida.com/florida-facts/ florida-state-symbols/statewildflower/)

Fleabane (Erigeron)

This small white-and-yellow wildflower stands about 18 inches tall on a bare stalk, but is a prolific bloomer and never fails to catch my attention. The blooms are quite small, but can number in the thousands along the roadside, creating a sea of floating bloom heads. Take time to look at one up close, and you’ll see a yellow center with a perfect ray of white petals surrounding it.

Meadow-beauty (Rhexia)

The meadow-beauty likes to stand off from the road

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY WILDFLOWER INITIATIVE

In May 2013, the Hillsborough County Commission voted to initiate a roadside wildflower program and received a grant from the Florida Wildflower Foundation for seeds.

County Public Works staff selected four locations and are currently conducting test plots. You may have seen the brown “Wildflower” signs on: Lithia Pinecrest (near Bryant Road) Highway 39 (south of Highway 60) Fletcher Avenue (near Interstate 75) Progress Village Boulevard (Madison Avenue)

Spiderwort (Tradescantia) and cling to the hedge rows in abundance. It stands only about a foot tall but makes up for its lack of stature with a profusion of lavender-andyellow flowers in tight proximity. You can find it in damp, low areas and ditches. Just like its name, it’s a gorgeous addition to the colors of the roadside, peeking out from among the grasses.

Spiderwort (Tradescantia)

Bright blue flowers are rare in nature, but Florida is blessed with plenty of spiderwort. The three-petaled blue flowers along the roadsides that bloom in profusion in the spring don’t seem to be bothered by the dust and exhaust hurled on them by passing cars. Each day, a bloom will open and die, followed the next day by another. But you have to be a morning person to see them. By noon they are done for the day. The genus is named after John Tradescant (1608-1662), a botanist who served as head gardener to King Charles I of England.

To learn more about Florida native plants and wildflowers, join the Suncoast chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society at SuncoastNPS.org.

We meet every third Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Seffner Extension Service office, 5339 CR 579, Seffner.

You can also learn more about Florida native plants at fnps. org.

HOW YOU CAN HELP THE WILDFLOWERS If you have wildflowers growing on your roadway, congratulations! You can help spread their seeds by waiting until the seed heads have dried and dropped before mowing.

If you must mow the grass while they are blooming, mow around them. Other tips: • Remember that most flowering plants like lots of sun.

If you are planting wildflowers, choose a site that gets at least six hours of full sun each day.

• Choose wildflowers that are suited to your soil conditions.

Some like it dry and others like it moist.

• If you live in a condo, but love the wildflowers, purchase the state tag for your vehicle and know that your dollars will go toward “enriching lives with Florida native wildflowers through education, planting and research projects.” The Florida Wildflower Foundation has garnered more than $3 million since 2000, through the sale of their tags.

• To purchase seeds or find an up-to-date report on what’s blooming, check out the Florida Wildflower Foundation website: flawildflowers.org.

the lion’s share by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer

Lions Club throws picnic in the park for volunteers The Plant City Lions Club enjoyed a picnic Saturday, May 9, at Edward Medard Re-

gional Park. Volunteers grilled up burgers and hot dogs, to be enjoyed with a smorgasbord

of sides. There were corn hole and other games, and a full afternoon of fellowship.

THIS WEEK’S CROSSWORD ANSWERS

Rick Norman got in some quality time with his granddaughter, Alexis.

THIS WEEK’S CRYPTOQUIZ ANSWERS 1) Pennsylvania 2) VMI 3) Pearl Harbor 4) Secretary of State 5) Nobel Peace Prize. George C. Marshall

Bob Varta, Judy Varta, Mitch Sacco and Lea Sacco

Many of the club members invited their younger family members along.

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blast from the past by Jose Lozoya | Special Correspondent

Challenge to test leaders’ knowledge

Who knows Plant City the best? Sixteen Plant City public figures will compete against each other to find out.

When Gill Gott, the executive director of the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center, presented the board of Friends of the Library with the idea of a history trivia challenge, he knew it was a great way to promote the use and support of Bruton Memorial Library.

The Friends of the Library committee is made up of staff from the Photo Archives and other volunteers. They put their heads together to bring out some big names in Plant City, including Mayor Rick Lott, and will pit them against each other to see who knows the most about the town’s history to win the History Trivia Challenge cup Tuesday, May 19, at Plant City Entertainment.

The first-time game will consist of four teams of four members each. The teams will compete to see which can answer the most questions and gather the most points.

The game will consist of 20 questions grouped into four categories with ascending difficulty and rewards. There will be five rounds of Plant City history questions.

If there is a tie, there will be two sets of tie-breaker questions to determine the final winning team.

The Archives is responsible for making the questions and quiz logistics. Most questions and answers can be found in one of two books: “Plant City: Its Origin and History” by

Quintilla Geer Bruton and David E. Bailey Jr.; and “Remembering Plant City: Tales from the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World” by Gott.

All contestants of the game are highly involved in the community’s clubs, businesses or city government, such as Michael Cameron, a team captain of the trivia game. For Cameron, being involved in the Plant City community is all he ever knew.

“Before I was born and while my mother was pregnant with me, she worked at the Bruton Memorial Library,” Cameron said.

The tradition has been passed to him. In addition to accolades such as 2014 Citi-

zen of the Year, he is now the founder and president of Cameron Financial Investment, located in downtown Plant City.

He is looking forward to the trivia challenge.

“I sure do love being a part of this community,” he said. “I grew up with Mac Smith who is on my team, and I personally know my other team members.

It makes it way better to have a relationship with the people on my team and I’m looking forward to the challenge with them”.

Admission is free and donations are accepted. Donations will be used by Friends of the Bruton Memorial Library.

Hopewell Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens are the sponsors of this event. For more information call the Photo Archives and History Center at (813) 754-1578

ACCOMPLISHED

by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor

IF YOU GO TRIVIA CHALLENGE When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 19 Where: Plant City Entertainment, 101 N. Thomas Street THE COMPETITORS CAPTAIN: Micheal Cameron; members: Mac Smith, Mike Sparkman, Paul Hetrick CAPTAIN: Gail Lyons; mem-

bers: Marsha Passmore, Al Berry, Billy Herold

CAPTAIN: Rick Lott; members: Hugh Gramling, Terry Ballard, Jack Gibbs CAPTAIN: Felix Haynes;

members: Bob Edwards, David Miller, David Sollenberger

Courtesy photo

Melissa Harnage is the third generation in her family to grow up in Plant City.

P.C. student salutatorian of Grace Christian Melissa Harnage snagged the no. 2 spot at the Valrico-based private school.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer

Anuj Desai and Rebecca Stephens have been friends since middle school, and both reached the top of their class at Strawberry Crest.

Catherine Sinclair

Crest valedictorians take center stage

Anuj Desai and Rebecca Stephens will be honored at graduation for their academic excellence, but their high school experiences were also marked by participation in the performing arts.

The weekend has finally arrived. Most teens around Plant City are out with friends or relaxing at home with family. They’ve eagerly awaited a break after a demanding week at school.

But two Strawberry Crest High School seniors still have work to do.

Action!

The curtain draws and the cast of “30 Reasons Not to Be In a Play” prepares for its entrances. Rebecca Stephens is among them. Opening night is just a week away, and she wants her performance to be strong, even if tonight is only a rehearsal.

Meanwhile, in Tampa, Anuj Desai takes a breath and gets ready to start practice with his Indian folk dance ensemble.

They’ll be on the dance floor until about midnight.

“Chalo!” a choreographer says. “Let’s go!”

Next weekend, while Stephens graces the stage at Strawberry Crest, Desai will be performing for thousands at the India Festival of Tampa Bay. What these students didn’t know last fall, as they were focusing on preparations for these performances, was that they would soon be in the spotlight for an entirely different aspect of their high school experiences.

This June, Desai will graduate from Strawberry Crest as valedictorian of the IB program, and Stephens will be honored as the school’s traditional valedictorian.

Dance demanded much of Desai’s time throughout his

high school years. It was a fun way for him to engage in the culture of the country from which his parents came.

“At home, you expect the Indian culture, the traditional values, and all of that,” he said. “And then you go outside and there’s an American environment, so you get the best of both worlds.”

Desai is looking forward to joining an Indian dance team at University of Florida when he arrives there in the fall.

But his ability to attend the school on a $20,000 scholarship is due to his academic accomplishments, even with the rigorous curriculum of the International Baccalaureate program.

“It might be a stereotype of valedictorians — they’re very studious and focus on various things and are very serious in these things,” Desai said.

“But I’m laid back about it ...

I’m OK if I can let some things slide.”

But he didn’t let too many things slide. Desai was honored as the third-highest scoring graduating senior in the entire school district this year.

Like Desai, Stephens is familiar with the schedule of a performing artist. Staying at school until 9 p.m., then doing homework until 1 a.m., and waking up at 5:30 a.m., was not uncommon for her. Weekends were usually the time to work on bigger projects, not to hang out with friends.

But the stage was her release.

“A lot of the time, I did not allow myself to do homework

Q&A WITH THE SCHS SALUTATORIANS IB SAL: NICHOLE MATHEW What extra-curricular activities have you been involved with?

I’ve done things that helped little kids, and Relay for Life. I like to read and play basketball occasionally.

How has working with kids shaped who you are?

It’s made me see the world differently, and it’s made me want to help more and get into doing something with children.

What are your college plans?

I plant to go to Nova Southeastern University, majoring in biology. ... My plan is to become a pediatrician.

Who is someone who has been a role model for you?

My dad. He told me that is success is whatever you make it to be, and you have to work hard. He’s the one that kept pushing me and made me realize it’s up to me to be successful.

TRADITIONAL SAL: MADISON JARRARD What are your post-high school plans?

I’m enlisted in the Navy. I leave sometime in August. I’ll go to boot camp at Great Lakes (Illinois) for eight weeks, and then I’ll come back and do sea school in Pensacola, and that’s about 30 weeks.

What is your definition of success, and do you think you’ve reached it?

My main end goal in life is to be a doctor, and right now I think I’m on the road to success, but I don’t think I’ll look at myself as a successful human being until I reach my goal as a doctor. I would say success is finding that goal and taking the steps you need to attain it.

during drama, because I felt that that was the time I was allowing myself to take a break from everything,” she said.

Stephens’ college plans aren’t solidified yet, but she hopes to study zoology. Her interests in nature and con-

In what way is your graduation speech unique?

My speech is kind of different. I love quotes. And so I asked three people in my graduating class to give me their favorite memory about Strawberry Crest.

What was one challenge you had to overcome during high school?

I am the biggest procrastinator you will ever meet, and so that was my biggest struggle. Dual enrolling at HCC really helped because in high school, teachers are pretty flexible with their deadlines, but at HCC, it was a real shock. I think dual enrolling has prepared me more than I could ever imagine, to enter the world.

servation were partly inspired by her family’s frequent trips to volunteer at Hillsborough River State Park, where they clean up pollutants.

Stephens’ older brother and sister also excelled in high school, but they both gradu-

ated third in their classes.

“We like to say I broke the Stephens curse, because I finally got past three,” Stephens said.

Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver.com.

Melissa Harnage rose to the top during her years at Grace Christian School in Valrico.

But she didn’t start off with the intention of earning the salutatorian honor.

“The hardest thing was developing my work ethic,” Harnage said. “When I started high school in ninth grade, I wasn’t a very serious student at all. … I knew I wasn’t trying for excellence.”

Although the third generation Plant City girl could pass her classes with ease, she was focused on her friends, like many teenagers are.

In 10th grade, she left Grace Christian for Seffner Christian Academy. It was here that she had a revelation before transferring back to Grace Christian.

“I promised I would bring back a stronger work ethic,” Harnage said.

So she got involved both academically and athletically.

She became a member of the National Honor Society and has received the President’s Academic Excellence Award. Last summer, she was accepted to the student humanities conference and lived on the Eckerd College campus.

Her pursuits in volleyball also paid off. She’s been playing since seventh grade and was named best defensive JV player in 2012. In the fall 2014, Harnage and the varsity volleyball team won the National Association of Christian Athletes Division 4 National Championship in Dayton, Tennessee.

Besides sports, Harnage also enjoys theater, community service and art. She volunteers as an assistant at the Bruton Memorial Library, assists teachers and staff with activities for intellectually disabled students at Willis Peters Exceptional Center in Dover, and is the assistant volleyball coach at the YMCA and Face Painters for God. In 2014, she won four awards for her graphic artwork at the Florida State Fair and the Florida Strawberry Festival.

And last summer, she spent two weeks on a LeaderTreks mission trip in the orphanage, La Providencia in Honduras. While there, not only did she head the sanitation team, help with construction projects and lead children in vacation Bible school activities in Spanish, but she also witnessed firsthand the poverty in a developing nation.

Seeing homes with dirt floors and villages without a clean water source made a profound effect on her goals for the future, and she will be studying international business and foreign languages on a Danforth Scholarship to Florida Southern, with the hope of bringing business and infrastructure to third world countries to make better lives.

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

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3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP FORUM / PAGE 1 off of Interstate 4 and has the potential to create jobs in a number of fields. In addition to light manufacturing and distribution, the space could eventually be used for agricultural research, a retirement community or even a healthcare facility.

“Literally, this project — the prospects, the possibilities are endless,” Appleyard said.

The next presentation highlighted the features of Central Florida Development’s commercial property along County Line Road. A spec building will be completed at the site in July, and one customer with a lease for 15,000 square feet will be moving in right away.

A second spec building will be completed later.

“I can’t say enough about our experience working with the City of Plant City,” Jeff Lucas, of Central Florida Development, said. “Everybody on the team there has been very responsive ... to, frankly, make this development successful and bring more jobs and capital investment into the area.”

City Manager Mike Herr has made it a goal to expand businesses already in Plant City and bring new industries to the town, creating new jobs for the citizens and newcomers. There are two residential developments in the works

PHOTO / PAGE 1 voicemail while she was working in the deli at Publix. When she called back, the organizer’s voicemail said she was out of the office until January. It wasn’t until Kaa’a was told by the school’s college and career counselor, Sherrie Mueller, that she realized it was all true.

“I knew the picture was good, but not amazing,” Kaa’a said.

The organizers beg to differ.

“The sincere emotions between the two people in the photograph and how they were reflected with the interactions between each other spoke to the complexity of it,” Frame-

IN OTHER NEWS • Commissioners approved a cooperative funding grant agreement with Southwest Florida Water Management District for a seasonal storage feasibility study for reclaimed water in Plant City. They also authorized a work order with Chastain Skillman for this study.

• A mutual aid agreement with the Polk County

FITLIFE / PAGE 1 Fitlife Foods, which was founded in Tampa, said the Plant City location will be good because of its centrality within the state

PETITION / PAGE 1 Keel said in the Sept. 14 complaint that Higginbotham acted unethically in the midst of the rezoning for Keel and Curley Winery, using the weight of his position to persuade people to oppose the winery’s rezoning last summer.

The rezoning allowed the business to open a craft brewery on site.

“I filed this complaint because I thought it was my civic duty as a 60-year resident of this county to let the state of

that would provide additional housing for the expected growth.

Just over a year ago, Walton Development Group bought a property in the northeast quarter of the city that is intended to become a Traditional Neighborhood Development, similar to Celebration or Fishhawk Ranch. The TND was originally called Cone Ranch, but it is now known as Varrea.

“We literally walked the site with our consultants, to go through the property and identify all of the natural beauties ... and we came up with a design,” Bob Sebesta, general manager of WDG, said.

Varrea is expected to have 2,640 residential units, along with some retail locations and shared amenities.

The other residential development is North Park Isles, a 400-acre community of 947 residential units to be built at Park Road and Sam Allen Road.

“The timing is right for Plant City,” Todd Taylor, a spokesman for North Park Isles, said.

“We’re very excited to get it going. The number of builders we have interested ... is off the charts.”

The program concluded with a presentation on Midtown by Herr. He showed visual representations of what the

streets and storefronts could look like in the future.

Herr also spoke about the appeal of the Historic Downtown District and how it will contribute to Midtown’s success.

“We’re very proud of the many assets that we have in our downtown business district today,” Herr said. “We have a lot of amenities to support Midtown.”

Leaders of local utilities companies, agribusinesses and manufacturing facilities also gave presentations about how their niche contributes to Plant City’s overall economic success. Martyn Clay, president of Hillsborough Community College in Plant City, spoke about how HCC prepares Plant City students for careers in a number of technical and professional fields.

There was also a panel discussion, during which attendees had the opportunity to ask agricultural experts about the impact of agriculture in Plant City and the current state of the industry.

All presentations from the forum are available at PlantCityRightNow.com. News, videos and other media will periodically be posted to the site throughout the year, until the next forum.

Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver.com.

works CEO Jessica Muroff said.

“It really was a beautiful moment in a photograph.”

The original print is hanging in the Frameworks office.

“It’s amazing to think that other people can see what I can see,” Kaa’a said. “At some point, they saw it with no captions. They saw love in the picture. And if someone is going through something difficult, they can see what my grandma would see.”

Kaa’a was inspired by her great-grandma, who was diagnosed with cancer. The blackand-white portrait shows a delicate girl with a scarf wrapped around her head nestled against a boy in the shadows.

“(My grandma) cried for a long time (when she saw it),” Kaa’a said. “She was mostly proud for putting myself out there. I’m a conservative picture-taker. I’ll show them to friends and family, but not contests or something to be put on a billboard. When you put it out there, it can be picked at.”

It was one of her models, Luis Arellono, who encouraged the shy talent to enter her photograph in the Frameworks contest after they looked through thirty-some Canon Rebel shots to pick the masterpiece. She entered the photograph the day she took it — and the day it was due.

Another inspiration was her

concentration: Disney versus reality. Last year, her concentration was chaos, but she always found herself going back to the subject of princesses and fairy tales. So she made sure her senior concentration would reflect her natural interest. She found a way to fuse her concentration with cancer.

And she chose to use black and white to reflect the negative reality of cancer.

“Princesses are definitions of beauty,” Kaa’a said. “So I wanted (my grandma) to look at something and see, ‘If that’s beautiful, then so am I.’” Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com.

Sheriff’s Office for investigative matters and emergencies was renewed.

community,” Mayor Rick Lott said.

Employment opportunities at Fitlife Foods will be posted at EatFitLifeFoods.com.

and availability of prospective local employees.

“Hopefully, every month we can announce a new company and say they’re bringing new jobs, new investments to our

Commissioners approved Monday, the rezoning of a 30.61-acre parcel at the northeast corner of Alexander Street and Franklin Street.

The property was previously zoned as R-1A (single-family dwelling district). But the Moody family, who own the land, wanted to market it differently.

The zoning is now PD (planned development district). There are 350,000 square feet available for commercial development.

“It allows a lot of flexiblility, as far as the uses go,” Phillip Scearce, director of planning and zoning, said.

There are some wetlands on the property, but they will be left intact for natural preservation.

“The wetlands to the north act as a barricade, buffer, to the residents along Monroe Street,” Scearce said.

At this time, no specific developers have expressed interest in the property. It could eventually be developed as a whole, or gradually in parts.

Because the parcel’s future use is uncertain, the transportation impacts are unknown.

The city will do a transportation analysis for any proposed projects on the site.

Florida know what was going on, and there was never any malicious intent,” Keel said.

But the ethics commission cleared Higginbotham last month and dismissed Keel’s complaint. Now, Keel could be legally responsible for covering the board’s expenses for defending Higginbotham throughout the case.

The county commissioners met May 6, to vote on whether to submit a petition to the ethics commission, requesting that Keel be required to reimburse the county.

Mary Helen Farris from the Hillsborough County Attorney’s Office said that under certain circumstances, the state ethics code holds a complainant liable for legal fees.

The ethics commission will have to assess the case of Keel and Higginbotham, but Farris said she is “fairly confident” that Keel will have to to pay.

“It’s not unusual in a lawsuit that the loser pays. It’s quite common, and frankly, it’s a way to police frivolous lawsuits,” Commissioner Victor Crist said.

Commissioner Kevin Beckner suggested an amendment to the agenda item that would require the county to reimburse Keel for his legal fees if the board’s petition fails. The board did not approve this amendment.

“It will establish a game of ping pong that could be neverending,” Crist said.

The board voted 6-1, to submit the petition to the ethics commission. The petition will be filed within the next week, and the ethics commission will address it as early as June 5.

anonymous donor paid for the $799 meat package.

The raffle, organized by council member Andrew Bryant for

the past three years, helps the group support programs such as the Pregnancy Care Center of Plant City, Citizens with

Disabilities Centers in Plant City, and Valrico and Riverview and the Knights of Columbus.

Wheelchair Foundation.

• An agreement with the School Board of Hillsborough County approved the continued use of the Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center for the Alternative to Our of School Suspension program. This program has operated at the rec center since 2002.

Future development

SPEAKERS

In addition to Mayor Rick Lott and City Manager Mike Herr, speakers at “Plant City. Right. Now.” were: Bob Appleyard, Transcend Development (Lakeside Station Logistics Park) Robert Beltran, Southwest Florida Water Management District Martyn Clay, Hillsborough Community College John Dicks, former mayor and blueberry farmer Gordon Gillette, Tampa Electric and Peoples Gas Ryan Keel, Keel & Curley Winery Jeff Lucas, Central Florida Development Steve Maxwell, Highland Packaging Solutions Scott Monahan, James Hardie Building Products Adam Myers, Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation Kenneth Parker, Florida Strawberry Growers Association Roy Peterson, Toufayan Bakery Bob Sebesta, Walton Development Group (Varrea) Todd Taylor, North Park Isles Gary Wishnatzki, Wish Farms

OUR TOWN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

together with the committee to collectively establish goals and direction for the CYSA program,” Hanlon said. “As a group of dedicated professionals, we can help gain more credibility and recognition of CYSAs and ultimately enable our youth sports to be that much better for the kids we serve in each of our communities.”

+ Meat raffle a success

Knights of Columbus Council 8095 at St. Clement Church raised $2,400 for charity with its annual meat raffle.

Parishioner Tom Cowan bought the winning ticket and picked up a trunk load of packaged beef from Rick’s Custom Meats April 18 in Lithia. An

Sports

YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | COMMUNITY

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Jake Sullivan hits a winning walk-off RBI in the ninth inning. 7 SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM

FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015

PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

SIDELINES

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

FOOTBALL

+ Spring games scheduled

Local football fans may want to go ahead and make plans for next Thursday night, as there will be rivalry showdowns at Strawberry Crest and Bloomingdale.

Plant City High will travel to Dover May 21 to take on the Chargers in this year’s spring game. This is a chance for fans to get a sneak peek of both teams’ up-and-coming talent and to see how established players, such as Markese Hargrove and Jordan Zilbar, are progressing. The game is scheduled to start at 8 p.m.

The defending district champion, Durant, will play the first half of Bloomingdale High’s spring showcase against Newsome, with the beginning at 6:30 p.m.

special olympics by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

Plant City athletes get ‘golden’ opportunity The Special Olympics State Summer Games begin May 15 in Orlando, and several Plant City teams are vying for gold medals.

The time for Special Olympics action is now, and Plant City will be well-represented in this weekend’s activities.

Six total teams will compete in the soccer, track and field, and volleyball events with hopes of improving upon last year’s success: five gold, four silver and three bronze medals.

The athletes represent Plant City by way of the high school, donning Raider colors and training at the school’s athletic facilities. The Raiders have more volleyball teams than anything, bringing orange, teal and black squads to Disney’s Wide World of Sports complex, and are also fielding orange

and teal soccer teams. Track and field will only have one team, but it was also the only squad to win gold in the 2014 competition.

Replicating last year’s success will be no small feat, but with the way these local athletes have been talking, it sounds as though they’re up for the task.

SOCCER

Last year’s Unified soccer teams brought home bronze medals, and many of the players are returning to play this weekend. That bodes well for Plant City’s chances, and the team’s newer players have

been positively affected by that presence.

One of those new players is Trey Givens, who recently moved to Plant City from Brandon. Givens, a center back, joins the Raiders after spending four years in the Brandon TOPS Soccer program. He says that the transition between programs has been easy, thanks to the Plant City players’ skill and sportsmanship, as well as some past experience.

“I knew a lot of them from TOPS Soccer, and it’s good to see some friends I knew here,” he says.

SEE OLYMPICS / PAGE 6

Justin Kline

Three volleyball teams will represent Plant City at the State Summer Games.

cycleof giving by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

Thoughts on meeting famous people

BASEBALL

+ Durant makes states

The “Cardiac Kids” have done it again.

After trailing, 2-1, for much of Tuesday’s Class 7A championship game, the Durant Cougars mounted a comeback in the sixth inning to top Osceola, 5-3 and advance to the state championships in Fort Myers.

The Kowboys scored two quick runs to start the game, and Durant got on the board one inning later thanks to a Cesar Caro RBI single. But until the sixth inning it was nothing but bad luck for the Cougar offense.

Solid pitching from Bryce Gainer kept Osceola from making any more noise.

A leadoff home run from Harrison Theocharakis got the home crowd as electric as the lightning bolts that dominated the skyline, and the Cougars cycled through the batting order while adding three runs. Justin Nardello, Scolaro and Cade Kelley each scored after a Jake Sullivan sacrifice fly and a Zach Barfield RBI single. The inning ended after Jonathan Hermann and Theocharakis struck out consecutively.

Scolaro wasn’t charged with Osceola’s run in the final frame, as it came on a fielding error out in left, and he was able to get the final outs with ease.

It marks the second time in three years that Durant has made it to states, and the first time in seven that head coach Butch Valdes was successfully hit with an orange Gatorade bath.

OUTDOOR SPORTS

+ Observer wants tips, tricks, tales

If you wish to be featured in upcoming issues of the Plant City Times & Observer for your outdoor sports prowess, there’s still time to get your stories or activity advice to the staff.

Sports reporter Justin Kline is looking for anyone with a passion for watersports, fishing, hunting or whatever keeps you active in the great outdoors during the summertime. Anyone interested can email jkline@ plantcityobserver.com.

Mark Rutherford rides in the Bike MS Citrus Tour with Team PANGO every year.

100-MILE JOURNEY

Mark Rutherford participated in the Bike MS Citrus Tour, held the weekend of May 2, and rode over 100 miles to raise money with his team. He’s also looking to expand multiple sclerosis awareness efforts into Plant City.

Every year since 2012, Mark Rutherford has the Bike MS Citrus Tour marked on his calendar. The locally-based handyman has a busy schedule on his plate, but the weekend he can hop on his bicycle and join over 1,000 riders for a fundraiser is always special to him.

This year, Rutherford, 55, and his team raised $29,534.25 for multiple sclerosis research — over $4,000 more than they’d hoped to raise and good for third among all teams.

Rutherford, an avid cyclist since 2007, completed his first Bike MS ride in 2008. He had been looking to get involved with a charity since 2007 and

settled on MS when he’d heard about the bike ride.

“I wanted to do something,” Rutherford says. “I had heard about the Bike MS event, and I thought to myself, ‘You know, that’s something I can do.’ I felt like I was really contributing.”

At a yard sale to benefit MS research, he linked up with PANGO team leader Scott Seymour and ended up joining the group. PANGO, an acronym for “Positive Attitude Never Grows Old,” comprises 17 members, some of whom are living with MS. The team typically hosts skeet shoots and go-kart racing fundraisers to raise money for the

ride, and Rutherford has been expanding his local network through social media to find donors.

After 2008, Rutherford’s trucking schedule kept him out of the event for three years.

But he retired in 2012 and has since been able to join the ride on a regular basis. He rides on weekends, setting up courses that take him through Temple Terrace, along Knights Griffin Road and State Road 92.

For the Citrus Tour, Rutherford and the rest of the 100mile riders started Saturday, May 2, at Fantasy of Flight, in Polk City, and biked 105.5

SEE RUTHERFORD / PAGE 6

Courtesy Photo

WHAT IS MS?

According to the Mayo Clinic, multiple sclerosis is a disease caused when the immune system attacks myelin, which protects the nerves from damage. It is believed to be an autoimmune disease, but that’s roughly all scientists know about its origins.

When the myelin is damaged, communication between the brain and body gets jumbled and the nerves deteriorate.

Some patients even lose the ability to walk over time.

There is no cure, but treatment is able to slow disease progression.

One of my favorite questions to ask in an Athlete of the Week interview is, “If you could meet any famous person, who would it be?”

When you ask kids about their favorite celebrities, athletes or notable historical figures, you can get some really good answers.

Normally, I’ve heard about playing sports with JUSTIN certain athKLINE letes. I haven’t done the calculations myself, but if my memory is correct then Tampa Bay Rays third baseman/ blond mohawk-wearer Evan Longoria is the most popular person, and playing baseball with him is the most popular scenario. I would imagine that to be a fun time, even if you accidentally bean him with a pitch like Chelsea Baker once did on television.

I’ve heard of dream meetings between athletes and U.S. presidents of the past and present, with both George W. Bush and Barack Obama recently getting some column inches. I’ve heard kids say they’d want to meet Jesus Christ, which more of you can probably agree on than the presidents. If I had the room in today’s paper, you all would have learned that Jake Sullivan already has an entire date night planned out for himself and pop music superstar Selena Gomez at the Genghis Grill in Brandon. (And there would even be leftovers for the next day.)

I’ve encountered several famous athletes, both in my line of work and outside of it.

The first celebrities I ever met were some members of the 2000 Buffalo Bills, which happened when I joined my best friend and his family for several preseason games at Orchard Park. (Full disclosure: His grandfather, Eddie Abramoski, was the team’s physical therapist for around 37 years and is enshrined in the team’s Wall of Fame and Ring of Honor. The family got hooked up often.) I remember Marcellus Wiley’s wife loudly telling anyone who would listen that he was going to be

SEE KLINE / PAGE 6

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THE GAMES

The State Summer Games, held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex May 15 and 16, is comprised of events in bocce, cycling, soccer, tennis, track and field and volleyball. Every sport but cycling will begin competition Friday, from 1 to 5:30 p.m., and everything will resume tomorrow at 7:30 a.m. After competition ends at 5:30 p.m., the teams will enjoy dinner, closing ceremonies and a “victory dance” to wrap things up.

OLYMPICS / PAGE 5 After the teams’ last practice, in which the players polished their corner kicks, coaches and players felt these squads were ready to go make some noise.

With the experience gained from the 2014 Games, it’s hard not to like this team’s odds going into the competition.

As for Givens, it’s his first time competing in the State

Summer Games. But, he’s been mentally preparing himself for the task.

“I’m a little nervous,” Givens says. “I don’t know what to expect, but I’m ready to do it.”

TRACK AND FIELD

The most successful group of 2014 was the track and field team, which took home all four of Plant City’s gold medals and one of the silver medals. Naturally, this team has the highest expectations going into this weekend’s slate of action.

Tori Selph, who will compete in the long jump and 100 meter race, is competing for the Raiders for the second year. She also played basketball and volleyball last year, but decided to focus solely on track and field in 2015. If anyone would know what the 2015 squad is capable of, it’s her. And she says her three teammates have some wheels.

“We have a lot of fast runners on the team,” Selph says.

This will be Selph’s second time competing in track and

field in the State Summer Games, and she’s happy to be able to make the trip again after doing so well last year.

“It was really good,” she says.

“We beat all of the teams.”

This year, she won’t be running in the Unified 4x100 Relay.

In addition to competing, Selph is looking forward to taking in the whole Disney experience and hanging out with her friends. And, of course, she wants to leave with something to show for her efforts.

“We’re gonna win this,” Selph says.

VOLLEYBALL

With three teams entered, it appears that Plant City volleyball will have the most chances to win some gold in Orlando.

Jamesha Roper played last year, when both volleyball teams won silver, and has high hopes for her teammates. Roper, a member of the Black team, will be sidelined this weekend due to injury. She was playing basketball five weeks ago, working out with the Special

PLANET FITNESS

Olympics All-American team, and suffered a stress fracture in her foot. Still, Roper has attended every team practice to cheer on her friends.

“I’m gonna be there for my team,” she says.

To improve upon last year’s performance, the teams have been working on one-handed hitting, calling for the ball and court movement. They’ve been working on the sand courts at Mike Sansone Park to improve movement, even though this weekend’s games will be played on a hard court. Roper says that the Black team’s strength is its attacking ability.

“We know how to spike,” she says. “We spike really hard.”

Roper and the volleyball teams know that, when it comes to the State Summer Games, nothing is ever easy.

But they’re ready to put in the work to get the desired results, and have fun while doing it.

“We are hoping that we all get gold this year,” Roper says.

“It’s going to be hard, but we’re going to try.”

KLINE / PAGE 5 a beast on defense. (NFL legend Bruce Smith had just left the team for the Washington Redskins, so Wiley took over.)

But I never got to meet him.

I once passed on kicker Steve Christie to get my hat signed by quarterback Doug Flutie — a move that my dad ended up getting mad at me for — and declined an offer to have Rob Johnson sign it.

In hindsight, I’m really, really glad I didn’t get “Robosack” to sign my hat.

In one of my internships, I met former Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Earnest Graham, who many of you probably remember for being awesome in 2007 while Cadillac Williams was on injured reserve for the thousandth time. This was a few years after Graham retired from the game, and he was preparing to coach high school ball in Fort Myers. He’s all right in my book — super nice guy. And, as I’ve written

about in previous columns, I’ve also met several Rays players, most of who are no longer in Tampa.

I can think of several people I’d love to meet, whether on assignment or off the clock. Chris Paul, Eric Moulds, Jim Thome, Patrick Roy and Ric Flair are at the top of my sports list. I’ve always been fascinated by food writing, so I’d love to meet someone who’s been able to balance food and sports, like ESPN long-form writer Wright Thompson, whose job I envy more than any other.

And, outside of the sports and journalism worlds, I can’t think of anything I’d like to do more right now than eat with gourmet chef-turnedrapper Action Bronson. Bronson is basically the Anthony Bourdain of the rap game, and the enthusiasm for cooking that he and his guests show on his VICE-produced web series (which is absolutely R-rated) is infectious.

A guy can dream, right?

FITNESS by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer

Q&A WITH GRADY HINCHMAN

Did you know that every $100 spent at a local, independently-owned store generates $45 of secondary local spending, compared to $14 for a big-box chain? This was first tested in 2003 by the Institute for Local Self Reliance and is nearly identical to later results across multiple Civic Economic studies.

The Plant City Times & Observer agrees with buying local. With the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, we’ve launched the Buy Local campaign, encouraging residents to shop local. This week’s Buy Local spotlight is Planet Fitness. We caught up with regional manager Grady Hinchman to get all the info on this successful business.

How did Plant City Planet Fitness first get its start?

It began in a small pre-sale center next to the 24 hour bingo and PaddyWagon Irish Pub. We had a small staff that were signing up members in anticipation of the gym opening. We had a grand opening on Dec. 17, 2014 with food, music, a local radio station and special guest Dani Allen, a past winner of the biggest loser.

What kind of service does Planet Fitness offer?

A comfortable, clean, friendly, low price, judgement-free zone. We pride ourselves in having the best equipment, a very welcoming friendly staff and being a place where anyone can feel comfortable working out.

How does Planet Fitness contribute to the community?

We are involved with the chamber of commerce. We have been a sponsor of the Pig Jam, Bike Night and car shows. We have future plans to join a chamber committee and get involved with sports team sponsorship down the road.

Why is Planet Fitness locataed at its site?

Our location is great for reaching all parts of Plant City and bridging the gap between Lakeland and Tampa.

Some of the participants took their plank to the next level.

KLINE / PAGE 5

What specials are you running?

We are always running great specials with a $10 option and a Black Card Option. The Black Card is $19.99 a month and gives you access to all 950 plus locations, guest privileges, use of the hydro beds, massage chairs, tanning beds, total body enhancement and half off selected drinks at the club.

What is Planet Fitness’ motto or mission and why?

We at Planet Fitness are here to provide a unique environment in which anyone — and we mean anyone — can feel comfortable. A diverse, judgement-free zone where a lasting, active lifestyle can be built. Our product is a tool — a means to an end — not a brand name or a mold maker, but

Plant City Times & Observer Locally Owned by Ed Verner, Nate Kilton and Felix Haynes The Plant City Times & Observer is published by Plant City Media LLC, a joint-venture of the Tampa Bay Times and Plant City Observer LLC.

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

Feel the Burn

a tool that can be used by anyone. In the end its all about you. As we evolve and educate ourselves, we will seek to perfect this safe, energetic environment where everyone feels accepted and respected. We are not here to kiss your butt, only to kick it, if that what you need. We need you because, face it, our planet wouldn’t be the same without you … you belong!

How many employees do you have?

We average between 14 and 20 employees.

Can you describe your clients?

We open our doors to everyone. A lot of our members are first-time gym members. We are geared toward general fitness.

TO ADVERTISE

Call Veronica Prostko, (813) 716-0007.

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 Observer, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A, Plant City, FL 33563

Each Saturday in May, personal trainers from Anytime Fitness are offering a free workout at the Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. It is part of a nationwide initiative among 1,000 Anytime Fitness locations to help members of their communities get more active — even those who do not feel like they are in the best shape.

The free session is a circuit workout that includes walking lunges, burpees, pushups, and aerobics. There are variations

RUTHERFORD / PAGE 5 miles to the Caribe Royale resort in Orlando. The group traveled on back roads to get to their destination, making a big loop through Polk County before taking Ronald Reagan Parkway and Orange Blossom Trail to Orlando.

On Sunday, the group took a 74-mile path back to Fantasy of Flight.

The tour also included 50and 75-mile rides, as well as an additional 50-mile trail for Sunday’s ride home.

CONTACT US The Plant City Times & Observer is published once weekly, on Fridays.

It provides free home delivery to several neighborhoods in Plant City.

The Plant City Times & Observer also can be found in many commercial locations throughout Plant City and at our office, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A. If you wish to discontinue home delivery or if you wish to suspend home delivery temporarily, call Linda Lancaster at 704-6850.

Charles Jackson added some shoulder weights to his walking lunges. of each exercise, to accommodate participants of all ability levels.

Participants were of all ages, from children to seniors.

Bike MS raised $590,291 for MS research and support this year. While it didn’t make the $850,000 goal, Rutherford and his teammates are still pleased that people were able to come together and raise what is still a big chunk of money to help out.

Potential riders must raise at least $250 to be able to participate in the event, and Rutherford makes it a point to save enough money each year to meet that goal on his own. But he’s looking for more support in the Plant City area,

having raised a total of $315 this year.

“I’d love to grow my contacts out here and raise a little more money,” he says.

He’s currently a member of Plant City’s BNI Goldmine chapter and wants to help the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World get more in touch with MS. To donate to his MS fundraising campaign, or to Team PANGO in general, visit NationalMSSociety.org/citrustour, click “Donate” at the top-right corner of the window and fill in the blanks.

Plant City Times &

Observer

General Manager/Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@PlantCityObserver.com General Manager/Advertising / Stacey Hudson, shudson@tampabay.com Managing Editor / Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@PlantCityObserver.com Assistant Managing Editor / Jess Eng, jeng@PlantCityObserver.com Staff Writers / Justin Kline, jkline@PlantCityObserver.com; Catherine Sinclair, csinclair@PlantCityObserver.com Advertising Executive / Veronica Prostko, vprostko@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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ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM

JAKE SULLIVAN

The Durant Cougars have made a case to change their name to the “Cardiac Kids” lately, as all of their games up to Tuesday’s regional championship came down to the wire (or close enough). In the regional semifinal, junior backstop Jake Sullivan took his turn as the hero with a walk-off RBI in the ninth inning that gave his team a 1-0 win over Steinbrenner.

Tell me about Last Tuesday’s game. How did that one go for you guys?

We were going in and just trying to fight hard, because every game has been like that for us in the postseason. We knew what to expect from them.

They’re a good team. We knew we had it the whole game. We gave ourselves a positive mindset, like, ‘We’re gonna win, we’re gonna win.’

When you guys beat Brandon for the district, the game-changer was Zach Barfield’s triple.That one happened on accident, after the missed bunt. Did your hit go according to plan, though?

It did, it did. He (head coach Butch Valdes) actually didn’t give me the bunt sign there. He just told me to get the job done. In BP, we’ve been working on that same situation, where a guy gets on and you’ve just got to get him over.

So I was thinking, ‘Hit the ball to the right side, get (Cade Kelley) over, and then someone gets him in.’ That’s what happened.

It went right in the middle, and (the Warriors) were playing infield in.

The last time the team made a state run, you were catching for Tyler Danish as a freshman.

I got to catch him in the state championship game, which was crazy. I was really nervous there. A freshman, with all these big guys, in the state championship game — it was crazy.

tee-ball field, when you were supposed to be 5 years old, and he let me play with my brother. Gave me a uniform and everything. It was fun.

Did you always want to be a catcher, or was there something else first?

I played second base and shortstop most of my life, and I’m sure that’s helped me as a catcher.

Quick transition, and all.

My dad caught for the Citadel, so he’s been able to help me. When it came around freshman year, I was like, ‘Why not?’ I figured I could do it, and they needed me, so I did it.

And you’ve caught here all four years?

It’s actually a funny story. My first time, when I played second base (for Durant), we were at University of Tampa for the fall tournament, and the first two balls hit to me. I was a freshman,

so I didn’t really know how to get my nerves and everything. The first balls hit to me were two errors.

I’ve never seen second base again. I went over to third base for half the year, and then I went to catcher.

I love playing catcher, though. I love getting involved in every play.

Do you play any other sports?

I played football, from when I was really little up until seventh grade.

My dad made me choose between baseball and football. I do miss football.

It was a lot of fun. I liked hitting guys. I wasn’t the biggest guy, so football wasn’t going to work out for me. I figured I’d choose the sport where I was a lot less likely to get hurt, and it’s a lot more fun for me, too.

What do you do for fun when you’re not playing sports?

Every day, after practice, we go out with the team and go eat somewhere.

After that, I pretty much go home and watch TV. We like Moe’s a lot. We go there every Monday. And we like Beef’s. They like us over there, and we like them.

Last time I came here for an Athlete of the Week interview, it was Jonah Scolaro, and he kind of threw you under the bus for being the worst Mario Baseball player on the team. Do you have a response for that?

I have a response: I’ve gotten a lot better at this game, OK? I think I beat him, the other day, on a walk-off base hit. We set it for five innings, but it went eight. I’ve gotten a lot better — my game has improved big time.

So you’ve been there before, as a young guy.There are a lot of them on this year’s team, so have you given them any advice for the playoffs?

We’re just gonna try to settle down, make sure that no one gets too nervous.

He never really said why you were so bad at it — everyone in the clubhouse just kind of agreed all at once. So, what was your weakness?

I had a problem hitting.

Every time they’d throw the ball, it would curve away.

It would be a ball, and I would swing, because I didn’t know what I was doing, so I had to start taking pitches. Then, they started throwing strikes, and I started hitting. It was fun.

How long have you been playing baseball?

Since I was three years old. My dad stuck me on the

If you two were to get a rematch right now, who comes out with the win?

I’d dominate him. I would dominate him. I have confidence.

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Neighborhood R E A L E S TAT E | P L A N T C I T Y L I F E | O B I T U A R I E S | G A M E S | FA I T H

PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

Roy and Shirley Heathcoe took a break at the swinging bench.

FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2015

A path was cut into the field so everyone could get a good look at the flowers.

Each bouquet sold was carefully wrapped by hand.

Sunflowers on the Ranch will be open again May 16 and 17, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, visit FoxSquirrelCornMaze.com.

Teresa Williams, Tucker Williams and Betty Pearson came all the way from Pinellas County to see the flowers.

AWESOME BLOSSOMS

The Fox Squirrel Corn Maze had a new event for spring this year: Sunflowers on the Ranch. Visitors strolled through an extensive field of blooming sunflowers and zinnias, and afterward, they could purchase flowers to take home. The event coincided with Mother’s Day weekend, intending to be a beautiful and relaxing destination for moms and their families.

The playground was a popular activity for families with small children.

BRIGHTER THAN THE SUN by Catherine Sinclair | Staff Writer

The path started with zinnias and ended with sunflowers.

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COMMUNITYCALENDAR FRIDAY, MAY 15

Acoustic Happy Hour — music takes place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, May 15, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 7648818.

Christian Contemporary Music — takes place from 6:33 to 8:13 p.m. Friday, May 15, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. (813) 7521220.

NRG Talent Show — takes place beginning at 7 p.m. Friday, May 15, at Plant City Entertainment, 101 N. Thomas St. Categories include students in elementary, middle and high school. $12 for general admission; $20 for reserved seating.

PCHS 35-Year Reunion — takes place from 6 to 11 p.m. Friday, May 15, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road. The casual gathering will be for classes 1979 and 1980.

PlantCityClassOf1980.com.

Plant City Social Dance Club — takes place from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 15, at the Florida National Guard Armory, 4004 Airport Road. Mike Laine will perform. $6 for members; $8 for non-members.

Singles and couples welcome.

PCSocialDanceClub@mail.com Shane Meade Live! — takes place beginning at 6 p.m. Friday,

BEST BET Peach Festival — takes place from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday, May 16, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. (813) 752-9100. Enjoy a U-pick, craft beer and wine, food, games and music.

May 15, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. (813) 752-9100.

SATURDAY, MAY 16 Anytime Fitness Free Workout — takes place from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, May 16, at Martin L. King Recreation Center, 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. It is part of a nationwide initiative among 1,000 Anytime Fitness. The free session is a circuit workout that includes walking lunges, burpees, pushups and aerobics.

There are variations of each exercise, to accommodate participants of all ability levels.

K.A. Dobbs Book Signing Event — takes place from 1 to 3 p.m.

Saturday, May 16, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd.

Dobbs, a resident of Lakeland, will be available to sign copies of her book, “There is a Light.”

Michael LuBeck Live! — takes place beginning at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, May 16, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. (813) 7529100.

PCHS 35-Year Reunion Dance — takes place from 6 to 11 p.m. Saturday, May 16, at Embassy Suites, 10220 Palm River Road, Brandon.

PlantCityClassOf1980.com.

Honey Hole Marketplace — takes place Saturday, May 16, at 2201 Thonotosassa Road.

Antique pickin’ and more.

Contact Mia at (813) 4841127.

Safe Sitter — takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 16, at the Community Conference Room, 301 N. Alexander St. The class covers babysitting basics, such as choking rescue, EMS, safety, behavior and entertainment.

Strawberry Classic Car Show — takes place from 4 to 8 p.m.

Saturday, May 16, in Historic Downtown, 102 N. Palmer St. Sunflowers on the Ranch — takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 16, and

Sunday, May 17, at Futch Farms, 3002 Charlie Taylor Road N. Enjoy walking through paths of flowers, games, food, vendors and more. foxsquirrelcornmaze.com.

Young Adult Nite — takes place from 7:33 to 10:33 p.m.

Saturday, May 16, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd.

Enjoy live music from local artists. (813) 752-1220.

MONDAY, MAY 18 Celebrate Recovery — takes place beginning at 7 p.m.

Monday, May 18, at Parkway Baptist Church, 4305 James L. Redman Parkway. A free recovery program for those struggling with addictions, depression, co-depency, anger and grief.

Contact Lauren at (813) 7634355 for more information.

TUESDAY, MAY 19 Go Hillsborough Transportation Workshop — takes place beginning at 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 19, at the John R. Trinkle Center, 1206 N. Park Road. Share your insight on how transportation impacts your daily life and discuss options that could improve traffic issues. This is the last local meeting is focused on finding new revenue sources used to fund the changes citizens want.

HillsboroughCounty.org/TED. The History Trivia Challenge —

To publicize your event in our Community Calendar, please send by mail: 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A, Plant City, FL 33563; or by email: ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com. Photos are welcome. Deadline is noon Thursday. takes place beginning at 7 p.m.

Monday, May 19, at Plant City Entertainment, 101 N. Thomas Street. Join Plant City’s finest to see who knows the most about the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World’s heritage. (813) 7541578.

Spring Social — takes place beginning at 11:30 a.m.

Tuesday, May 19, at Plant City Woman’s Club, 1110 N. Wheeler St. The club will be honoring the scholarship recipients. Lunch will be catered by Simply Southern. RSVP, (813) 752-4871.

The Recovery for Life — takes place from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Tuesday, May 19, at the Lorena Jaeb Rainbow House, 504 N. Palm Drive. It is a 12-step Bible-based program to help free individuals from all forms of addiction. Debbie Ray, (813) 763-1562.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20 Geri Blount Live! — takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, May 20, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. (813) 752-9100.

Open Mic Night — takes place beginning at 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 20, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818.

Plant City Local Harvest Farmers Market — takes place from 4 to

8 p.m. Wednesday, May 20, at McCall Park, 100 N. Collins St. PCLocalHarvestFarmersMarket. com.

THURSDAY, MAY 21 Go Hillsborough Transportation Telephone Town Hall — takes place beginning at 7 p.m.

Thursday, May 21. Share your insight on how transportation impacts your daily life and discuss options that could improve traffic issues. This last local meeting is focused on finding revenue sources used to fund the changes citizens have made clear they want. HillsboroughCounty.org/ TED. 1-877-229-8493; PIN: 110301.

Network Professionals Inc. — meets from 8 to 9:15 a.m.

Thursday, May 21, at IHOP, 805 S. Collins Street. For more information call Guy Howerton at (813) 310-2860.

FRIDAY, MAY 22 Family Affairs 2 — music festival takes place Friday, May 22, to Monday, May 25, at 2505 Bella Vista Blvd., Lakeland. The all-ages event is family friendly. Children under 12 and veterans are free.

Live music, swimming pool, camping, vendors and games.

DonkePunchProductionsFL. com.

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CUTESTCRITTER

J

erry and Marti Lofstrom’s family dog, Hatchi, is loyal, smart, affectionate, giving and understanding — traits you like to see in others. The girl might not be considered “cute,” but she is a beautiful lady.

REAL ESTATE by Amber Jurgensen | Managing Editor

Turkey Creek Animal Hospital and Animal Wellness Center have partnered to present a weekly Cutest Critter Contest. Entering is simple: Just submit a high-resolution photo (200 dpi or better) and a sentence or two about why your pet is the cutest. Include your name and contact information.

Winners will be showcased in the Plant City Times & Observer and will receive a free bag of dental chews to be picked up at Turkey Creek Animal Hospital and Animal Wellness Center.

Submit your entries to Managing Editor Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com; subject line: Cutest Critter Contest. Good luck!

Monroe home tops April residential transactions The home at 4205 Papa Wilder Road sold April 7, for $425,000. Built in 1995, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,714 square feet of living area on 36 acres. The price per square foot is $247.96.

Anne Court sold April 10, for $96,000 (short sale). Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,258 square feet of living area on .10 acres. The price per square foot is $74.71.

Bracewell Heights

The home at 3317 Little Acre Lane sold April 7, for $349,000.

Built in 2011, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,839 square feet of living area on one acre. The price per square foot is $122.93.

The home at 3335 Little Acre Lane sold April 10, for $279,742.

Built in 2015, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,487 square feet of living area on one acre. The price per square foot is $112.48.

The home at 1201 N. Gordon St. sold April 30, for $21,500.

Built in 1925, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,552 square feet of living area on .24 acres. The price per square foot is $13.85.

The home at 1701 E. Spencer St. sold April 17, for $163,000.

Built in 1959, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,232 square feet of living area on .69 acres. The price per square foot is $73.03.

Carolyn Gardens

Eastridge Preserve

Four Seasons

The home at 805 Monroe St. sold April 30, for $90,000. Built in 1975, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,008 square feet of living area on .19 acres. The price per square foot is $89.29.

The home at 2201 N. Gordon St. sold April 24, for $85,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,258 square feet of living area on .23 acres. The price per square foot is $67.57.

Chadam

Grimwold

The home at 5039 Booth Road sold April 6, for $380,000.

Built in 1991, it has three bedrooms, three and one half baths and 2,387 square feet of living area on 15 acres. The price per square foot is $159.20.

Country Hills

The home at 4515 Country Hills Blvd. sold April 2, for $125,000. Built in 1999, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,210 square feet of living area on one acre. The price per square foot is $103.31.

The home at 4730 Dawn Meadow Court sold April 29, for $152,000. Built in 1989, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,508 square feet of living area on .14 acre. The price per square foot is $100.80.

The home at 506 Lindsay

The home at 907 W. Tever St. sold April 20, for $159,000. Built in 1977, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,000 square feet of living area on .20 acres. The price per square foot is $79.50.

Hillsboro Park

The home at 1813 N. Barnes St. sold April 6, for $75,500.

Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,250 square feet of living area on .15 acres. The price per square foot is $60.40.

Hillsborough

The home at 814 Drane St. N.W. sold April 23, for $44,900.

Built in 1946, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 728 square feet of living area on .12 acres. The price per square foot is $61.68.

The home at 1304 N. Franklin St. sold April 14, for $35,000.

Built in 1988, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 780 square feet of living area on .15 acres. The price per square foot is $44.87.

The home at 1606 E. Lee Villa Drive sold April 27, for $138,000. Built in 1960, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,624 square feet of living area on .37 acres. The price per square foot is $84.98.

The home at 802 N. Maryland Ave. sold April 17, for $90,000.

Built in 1984, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,460 square feet of living area on .17 acres. The price per square foot is $61.64.

The home at 5826 Ramsgate Place sold April 2, for $143,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2002, it has five bedrooms, two baths and 2,023 square feet of living area on one acre. The price per square foot is $70.69.

The home at 3747 Sam Allen Road sold April 13, for $129,900. Built in 1995, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,303 square feet of living area on one half acre. The price per square foot is $99.69.

The home at 4312 Thonotosassa Road sold April 14, for $92,500 (REO/bank owned).

Built in 1967, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 1,430 square feet of living area on two acres. The price per square foot is $64.69.

The home at 1206 Victoria St. sold April 16, for $155,500 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,616 square feet of living area on .21 acres. The price per square foot is $95.92.

The home at 801 N. Wheeler St. sold April 21, for $70,000.

Built in 1930, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,257 square feet of living area on .19 acres. The price per square foot is $31.01.

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The home at 2205 S. Wiggins Road sold April 30, for $121,000. Built in 1975, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,339 square feet of living area on .69 acres. The price per square foot is $90.37.

Island Pond Estates

The home at 4108 Peacock Road sold April 24, for $138,000.

Built in 1959, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,956 square feet of living area on .71 acres. The price per square foot is $70.55.

Jimenez

The home at 4854 Calhoun Road sold April 8, for $145,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1979, it has five bedrooms, two baths and 2,502 square feet of living area on one acre. The price per square foot is $57.95.

Kings Village

The home at 608 Bethune Drive sold April 16, for $81,000.

Built in 1977, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,388 square feet of living area on .15 acres. The price per square foot is $58.36.

Magnolia Green

The home at 3803 Crystal Dew St. sold April 8, for $183,990. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,828 square feet of living area on .15 acres. The price per square foot is $100.65.

The home at 3812 Crystal Dew St. sold April 16, for $196,990. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, two and one half baths and 2,432 square feet of living area on .16 acre. The price per square foot is $81.

The home at 3814 Crystal Dew St. sold April 13, for $190,990. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, two and one half baths and 2,263 square feet of living area on .15 acre. The price per square foot is $84.40.

The home at 3833 Crystal Dew St. sold April 9, for $169,990. Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,672 square feet of living area on .21 acres. The price per square foot is $101.67.

The home at 3104 Magnolia Meadows Drive sold April 28, for $135,000. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,653 square feet of living area on .15 acres. The price per square foot is $81.77.

The home at 3202 Magnolia Meadows Drive sold April 3, for $130,000 (REO/bank owned).

Built in 2009, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,770 square feet of living area on .16 acres. The price per square foot is $73.45.

Marshall Terrace

The home at 1606 E. Alabama St. sold April 30, for $33,000

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(REO/bank owned). Built in 1966, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,440 square feet of living area on .19 acres. The price per square foot is $22.92.

acres. The price per square foot is $78.40.

The home at 2938 Spring Hammock Drive sold April 30, for $259,900. Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,463 square feet of living area on .27 acres. The price per square foot is $105.61.

The home at 1416 Walden Lake Oaks sold April 7, for $125,000. Built in 1990, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,324 square feet of living area on .17 acres. The price per square foot is $94.41.

Mimosa Park

The home at 1504 E. Mimosa Drive sold April 1, for $65,000.

Built in 1957, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,170 square feet of living area on .25 acres. The price per square foot is 55.56.

Morningside Heights

The home at 907 W. Morse St. sold April 13, for $64,900. Built in 1947, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 864 square feet of living area on .35 acres. The price per square foot is $75.12.

Washington Park

Mulrennan Estates

The home at 302 E. Keysville Road sold April 17, for $115,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1965, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,305 square feet of living area on three acres.

The price per square foot is $88.12.

The home at 1102 W. Keysville Road sold April 24, for $128,000. Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,165 square feet of living area on one acre. The price per square foot is $109.87.

Oakview Estates

The home at 2504 Jim Johnson Road sold April 10, for $56,500. Built in 1958, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 864 square feet of living area on one acre. The price per square foot is $65.39.

Paddocks

The home at 2636 Bridle Drive sold April 27, for $179,900. Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,713 square feet of living area on .20 acres. The price per square foot is $105.02.

Park Place

The home at 1504 N. Johnson St. sold April 8, for $219,900.

Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,852 square feet of living area on .20 acre. The price per square foot is $118.74.

The home at 1506 N. Johnson St. sold April 27, for $208,000.

Built in 2014, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,033 square feet of living area on .20 acres. The price per square foot is $102.41.

The home at 1705 N. Johnson St. sold April 27, for $317,500. Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, three and one half baths and 3,432 square feet of living area on .18 acres. The price per square foot is $92.51.

The home at 1214 Spotted Lilac Lane sold April 30, for $219,000. Built in 2012, it has

Amber Jurgensen

This property at 4205 Papa Wilder Road sold for $425,000. The land is 36 acres with a 1,714-square-foot house. three bedrooms, two baths and 2,033 square feet of living area on .24 acres. The price per square foot is $127.77.

Pinedale Meadows

The home at 1502 Pinedale Meadows Court sold April 17, for $160,000 (short sale). Built in 2000, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,745 square feet of living area on one half acre.

The price per square foot is $91.69.

Render Place

The home at 7309 Quail Meadow Road sold April 15, for $245,000. Built in 1997, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,832 square feet of living area on four and one half acres. The price per square foot is $86.51.

Stone Hedge

The home at 2907 W. Trapnell Road sold April 30, for $99,907.

Built in 1957, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 1,122 square feet of living area on one half acre. The price per square foot is $89.04.

Strawberry Village

The home at 1908 Strawberry Drive sold April 8, for $121,000.

Built in 2004, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,376 square feet of living area on .14 acres. The price per square foot is $87.94.

Tower Grove

The home at 615 Tower Grove Drive sold April 2, for $264,000.

Built in 2013, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,487 square feet of living area on one half acre. The price per square foot is $106.16.

Trapnell Ridge

The home at 3714 Trapnell

Grove Loop sold April 21, for $139,790 (short sale). Built in 2007, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,910 square feet of living area on .20 acres. The price per square foot is $73.19.

The home at 3613 Trapnell Ridge sold April 6, for $91,350 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2012, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,273 square feet of living area on .18 acres. The price per square foot is $71.76.

Walden Lake

The home at 3118 Emerson Place sold April 30, for $75,000 (short sale). Built in 1992, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,463 square feet of living area on .23 acres. The price per square foot is $51.26.

The home at 3018 Forest Club Drive sold April 29, for $235,000. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,469 square feet of living area on .31 acres. The price per square foot is $95.18.

The home at 3021 Forest Hammock Drive sold April 23, for $265,000. Built in 2000, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 2,215 square feet of living area on .39 acres. The price per square foot is $119.64.

The home at 2904 Hampton Place Court sold April 10, for $327,000. Built in 2002, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 3,094 square feet of living area on one half acre. The price per square foot is $105.69.

The home at 3510 Kilmer Drive sold April 28, for $222,000. Built in 1998, it has three bedrooms, two and one half baths and 1,876 square feet of living area on one half acre.

The price per square foot is $109.28.

The home at 3316 Kilmer Place sold April 17, for $205,000.

Built in 1994, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,346 square feet of living area on .23 acres. The price per square foot is $94.63.

The home at 4120 Longfellow Drive sold April 6, for $179,900.

Built in 1990, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,822 square feet of living area on .22 acres. The price per square foot is $98.74.

The home at 2907 Pine Club Drive sold April 17, for $265,000. Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,214 square feet of living area on .37 acre. The price per square foot is $119.69.

The home at 3225 Pine Club Drive sold April 27, for $220,000. Built in 1989, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,342 square feet of living area on .29 acres. The price per square foot is $93.74.

The home at 1415 Sandalwood Drive sold April 10, for $148,000. Built in 1985, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,644 square feet of living area on .20 acres. The price per square foot is $90.02.

The home at 3345 Silvermoon Drive sold April 24, for $185,000. Built in 1993, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,050 square feet of living area on .29 acres. The price per square foot is $90.24.

The home at 4108 Silvermoon Drive sold April 14, for $140,000. Built in 1997, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,676 square feet of living area on .19 acres. The price per square foot is $85.53.

The home at 3456 Silverstone Court sold April 22, for $144,500 (REO/bank owned).

Built in 1997, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,843 square feet of living area on .20

The home at 1103 E. Calhoun St. sold April 17, for $115,000.

Built in 1991, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,247 square feet of living area on .16 acre. The price per square foot is $92.22.

The home at 706 N. Johnson St. sold April 22, for $94,000.

Built in 1949, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 1,048 square feet of living area on .19 acres. The price per square foot is $89.69.

The home at 1204 E. Tomlin St. sold April 13, for $82,900.

Built in 1926, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,256 square feet of living area on .23 acres. The price per square foot is $66.

Wiggins Estates

The home at 3406 Knoxville Place sold April 8, for $320,000.

Built in 2014, it has five bedrooms, four baths and 3,378 square feet of living area on one acre. The price per square foot is $94.73.

The home at 3435 Knoxville Place sold April 27, for $246,855. Built in 2014, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,236 square feet of living area on one acre. The price per square foot is $110.40.

Whispering Woods

The home at 2808 Holly Bluff Court sold April 15, for $168,500. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,598 square feet of living area on .14 acre. The price per square foot is $105.44.

Wilder Oaks

The home at 2508 N. Frontage Road sold April 22, for $150,000. Built in 1966, it has four bedrooms, two and one half baths and 12,146 square feet of living area on .62 acre.

The price per square foot is $69.90.

Windmill Pointe

The home at 4209 Edwin Mill Place sold April 10, for $110,000 (short sale). Built in 2006, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,462 square feet of living area on one acre. The price per square foot is $44.59

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OBSERVER OBITUARIES Gilbert “Gil” John Allison

Gilbert “Gil” John Allison, 79, of Plant City, died May 5, 2015.

Born in Salem, Ohio, and a former resident of Tampa, Mr. Allison served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and retired from GTE Florida in 1990.

Loving family who survive are his wife of 57 years, Margaret “Peg” Allison; son, Thomas G. Allison; daughters, Catherine “Katy” Allison and Mary Frances “Fran” Lavandera (Hank); and grandson, Joseph F. Lavandera.

He was predeceased by his mother, Catherine T. Allison; and four siblings.

A visitation was held May 7, at Wells Memorial Funeral Home. A funeral Mass was held May 8, at St. Clement Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to My Brother’s Keeper at St. Clement Catholic Church. Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com.

Cyrena Ruth Strickling Campbell

Cyrena Ruth Strickling Campbell, 94, of Plant City, died May 9, 2015, in her home.

She was originally from Woodsfield, Ohio. Upon graduating from high school, she moved to Washington, D.C., where she worked for the federal government during the war years. She married her husband of 61 years, Marvin, in 1948. Along with their infant son, Jeffrey, they moved to Florida in the early ‘50s. “Cy,” as she was affectionately known by her friends and family, contributed greatly to the lives of her children, family, and friends.

She enjoyed being involved at First Presbyterian Church of Plant City, as well as working with the Boy and Girl Scouts.

She especially enjoyed her career as school secretary at her beloved Jackson Elementary School. Upon retiring, she embarked on many new adventures, such as fulfilling a lifelong dream to travel to Australia. She always had livestock, a garden and pets, and loved being outdoors.

Most of all, she loved her family, upon whom she bestowed a legacy more valuable than any material possession. She emphasized education, hard work, honesty and most of all, love.

She is survived by her children, Jeffrey Campbell (Karen) and Donna Sizemore (Jay); “adopted” daughter, Pat Townsend (Johnnie); grandchildren, Matthew Campbell, Holly Campbell (Dennis Bakriges), Sara Sizemore-Cruz (James), Jennifer Sizemore-Switch (Joel), Jack P. Sizemore III (Lindsey), Wendy Wolfe (Robby) and David Ross (Kristine); and great-grandchildren, Julia Switch, Nolen Cruz, Jenna Switch, Jack P. Sizemore IV, Sage Campbell Bakriges, Nicholas Wolfe, Zachary Wolfe and Kassidy Wolfe. She was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin; and daughter, Nancy.

A celebration of life was held May 15, at Hopewell Funeral Home. The family wishes to extend a special thanks to all the people who have lovingly cared for Mrs. Campbell. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral. com.

Rev. Angel Pena Espinoza

Rev. Angel Pena Espinoza, 74, of Plant City, died May 10, 2015, at Melech Hospice House.

A native of Las Pedra, Puerto Rico, he was the son of the late Cristobal Pena and Augustina Espinoza. He was a member of Templo Christiano.

Survivors include his beloved wife, Josefina Davila Pena; siblings, Adelaida, Carmen Iris, Eva, Migdalia, Israel, David and Cristobal Pena.

He was preceded in death by

his brother, Nereida Pena.

Funeral services were held May 13, at Haught Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

Barbara Jean Grimes

Barbara Jean Grimes, 78, of Plant City, died May 1, 2015 at Community Care Center.

A native of Chicago, Illinois, she was the daughter of the late Herman Pittelkow and Bernice Gunderson.

Survivors include her son, Troy Karr; and siblings, Jack, Ralph, Dick, Candy, Carol Ann, Joyce and Jaquelyn. The family will be having private services. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

Frederick Haarmann

Frederick Haarmann, 86, of Plant City, died May 4, 2015.

A native of Babylon, New York, he was the son of the late Adam and Elisabeth Haarman. He was the beloved husband of the late Joan F. Haartmann. Mr. Haarmaan was a veteran of the Navy. He was a parishioner of St. Clement Catholic Church, where he served in numerous ministries, including: the Knights of Columbus, Eucharistic minister, the Legion of Mary, Parish Council, Faith Formation, nursing home and hospital visitation and the parish choir. A devoted husband, father and grandfather, he enjoyed tennis, traveling and spending quality time with family.

Survivors include children, Lori Russell (Ted), Peter F. Haarmann, Paul E. Haarmann and Joseph J. Haarmann (Nancy); sister, Joan Jacobelli; and six grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son, Frederick F. Haarman Jr. Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. May 15, at St. Clement Catholic Church. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in the family’s name to the Lymphoma and Leukemia Society. Online condolences may made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

Sarah Celeste Harrison

Sarah Celeste Harrison, 89, died April 30, 2015, in Jacksonville.

She was born Oct. 27, 1925, in Plant City. Mrs. Harrison graduated from Florida State University when it was an all-women’s college. She was a teacher in Duval and St. Johns counties, finishing her career at Neese High School.

She was the loving wife of the late Frederick Harrison, who died in January 2002.

She is survived by her sons, Frederick William Bill and James Wesley Jim Harrison; and six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held May 9, at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin, Jacksonville. Interment to follow at Mandarin Cemetery.

Online condolences may be made at HGMandarin.com.

Sadie Lentz Lobo

Sadie Lentz Lobo, 94, of Temple Terrace, died May 4, 2015, at University Village in Tampa.

Born Feb. 3, 1921, in Commerce, Georgia, to John Henry and Mildred Lentz, she came to Florida with her family at age 5. She and her six brothers and two sisters attended public schools in Seffner, Brandon and Plant City. She received a bachelor’s in economics from Florida State College for Women, now FSU, following which she worked in the state department of education. She subsequently served under the Governor’s Office as General Secretary to the Florida Citizens Committee on Education for the study of education in Florida. She worked during two Florida legislative sessions, while on leave from DOE. She then transferred to Gainesville as

secretary to the dean of the College of Education at the University of Florida for two years. She came back to Tampa, following her marriage to Tony Lobo, her husband of 46 years, who proceeded her in death. During those years, she worked for the Hillsborough County School Board and four Superintendents of Schools.

She is survived by her son, Lance Cory Lobo; brothers, Frank Lentz and Henry Lentz; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service was held May 9, at Blount and Curry Terrace Oaks Funeral Home, Temple Terrace. Burial at Sunset Memory Gardens.

Betty McLendon

Betty McLendon, 76, of Plant City, died May 8, 2015.

She is survived by her husband of 20 years, Vinson; children, Cindy, Rick, Sue, Jerry, Jeff, Daphne and Lisa; and 22 grandchildren, 42 great-granchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life was held May 12, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Interment at Alderman-Pelote Cemetery, Lithia. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.

Malinda Aleen Meyer

Malinda Aleen Meyer, 92, of Plant City, died May 5, 2015.

She owned Aleen’s Beauty Shop and worked as a strawberry stemmer at the Wishnatzki plant. She loved her family, and she enjoyed fishing and sewing.

She is survived by her son, Steven Meyer (Vickie); grandchildren, Michael Meyer, Becky Page (Danny) and Eugene Rogers (Selena); great-grandchildren, Danny Page and Christie Page; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Gerall Meyer; and sons, D.G. Meyer, and C.B. Meyer.

A celebration of life was held May 9, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Committal at Geiger Cemetery, Zephyrhills. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.

Raymond A. Peloquin

Raymond A. Peloquin, 76, died May 7, 2015, in Brandon.

He was born in Holyoke, Massachusetts, to Delore and Pauline (Masse) Peloquin. He was a terminal manager for many years for Lifschultz Fast Freight Inc. in Baltimore, and when he retired to Florida, he worked for Gator Freightways in Lakeland.

Mr. Peloquin is survived by his wife of 55 years, Adele; their children, David (Mary), Donald, Suzanne (Eric), Ray and Mark (Christa); his grandchildren of whom he was so proud, Justine, Jeremy, Sarah, Michelle, Caroline and Isaac; and his sister-in-law, Terry, and her children. Private services are pending. Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial. com.

John R. Rhodes III

John R. Rhodes III, 73, died May 3, 2015, in Plant City.

Mr. Rhodes was a disabled U.S. Navy veteran, and a member of the First Baptist Church, Dover. He was a barber and loved tinkering with old cars, watching old westerns on the television and volunteering at his church.

Loving family who survive are his wife of 48 years, Virginia E. Rhodes; son, John R. Rhodes IV (Elizabeth); brothers, Kenneth Rhodes (Karen), David Rhodes and Derwood Rhodes (Trish); and grandchildren, John R. Rhodes V and Landon Rhodes.

A funeral service was held May 9, at First Baptist Church, Dover. Burial at First Baptist Dover Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial.com.

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3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

PLANT CITY

RAIN

(INCHES)

WEATHER

THURS. May 7

0.00

FRI.

TEMPERATURES

May 8

0.01

SAT.

0.00

SUN.

May 10

0.00

MON. 0.00

TUES.

May 12

0.00

WED.

May 13

0.00

MAY

TO DATE

4.23 (2014: 1.20)

YEAR

TO DATE 10.51 (2014: 8.25)

HIGH 92 92 92 94 94 94 95

Friday, May 15 Saturday, May 16 Sunday, May 17 Monday, May 18 Tuesday, May 19 Wednesday, May 20 Thursday, May 21

May 9

May 11

SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES Friday, May 15 Saturday, May 16 Sunday, May 17 Monday, May 18 Tuesday, May 19 Wednesday, May 20 Thursday, May 21

SUNRISE 6:36 a.m.

6:39 a.m.

6:38 a.m.

6:37 a.m.

6:37 a.m.

6:36 a.m.

6:36 a.m.

SUNSET 8:10 p.m.

8:11 p.m.

8:11 p.m.

8:12 p.m.

8:13 p.m.

8:13 p.m.

8:14 p.m.

LOW 71 71 71 72 73 73 74

MOON PHASES

May 17

May 25

CANTALOUPES

SHIPPING POINT: Orlando

Size Price 120s $120 to $160 150s $70 to $90

June 2

Courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture

June 9

Each of the following cryptograms is a clue to the identity of an American general. Using the hints X=E and W=R, decipher the clues to name the general.

1. D X H H R C J K Z H T Z 2. K S T 3. D X Z W J Q Z W V U W 4. R X L W X G Z W C U A R G Z G X 5. H U V X J D X Z L X D W T E X This general coordinated Allied efforts in Europe and the Pacific in WWII, earning the nickname “Organizer of Victory”:

SUDOKU

Solve the puzzle by placing the numbers 1 through 9 in each row, column and box.

8 5

3

6

6 1

3

3

3 9

9

9

1

5

8 4

9 4

8

5

, 3&

Sandy Van Vooren took this photo of a beautiful afternoon at Walden Lake Park.

The Plant City Times & Observer and Grimes Hardware have partnered to host the I Love Plant City Photo Contest. Winners will have their photo featured and receive a $15 gift certificate to Grimes Hardware’s Strawberry Town Cafe!

To enter, email your photo, along with a caption, to Editor Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com; subject line: I Love Plant City. Winners can pick up their prize at Grimes Hardware.

CROSSWORD EYE TEST by Gia Kilroy

CRYPTOQUIZ

8

2

6

3

7

7

6 7

4

5

ACROSS 1 Babe in the woods 5 Photocopier problems 9 Farm implements 14 “All My Children” and others 19 “Anything ___?”

20 Diva’s solo 21 Bucolic 22 Sing the praises of 23 Cost to cross 24 Irk big-time 25 Japanese port 26 Black 27 Visit twins?

29 Surgical incision into a vein 31 Fitness centers 32 Emulates an obedient dog 33 “___ what?”

34 Comics ghost 37 Wine of Spanish origin 39 Second printing 43 Adore anagram 44 Begin 45 Point in the right direction?

46 In-flight info, for short 47 One who feels remorse 48 Approach completion, in a way 51 Dam 52 Broadway librettist Burrows 53 Hurt badly 54 High card 55 Terry McMillan’s “Waiting to ___” 57 Establish, as rules 59 Military caps 62 Rated (oneself) highly 63 “To ___ is human ...”

64 All things fit for eating 67 Had a good meal 68 More chichi 71 Czech Republic cash 72 Hot pepper 76 Tune from “Funny Girl” 77 Pipe joint 78 Pupil’s locale 79 Paycheck deduction 80 Goes quickly 81 “Ta-ta!”

86 Talk like Daffy Duck 87 Dangerous for driving 88 Emailed 89 Wild fight 90 Kind of test 91 Israeli currency units 93 Preserve for burial 95 Finger 96 Moray, e.g.

97 Carroll character 98 Engine sound 99 It cooks meat to a turn 102 Need new glasses 107 Use, as china 108 Ever 109 Army scofflaw, initially 110 LaBeouf of Hollywood 111 Tour of duty 112 Mike holder 113 Kind of therapy 114 Brand, in a way 115 Leisurely walk

©2015 Universal Uclick

116 Aquarium fish 117 Endangered antelope 118 Bring home DOWN 1 Brings home 2 ___ vera 3 “Cast Away” setting 4 Igneous rock 5 Sporty car 6 Ishmael’s people 7 Steelworker’s place 8 Ad headline 9 Possessions, collectively 10 More opulent 11 By word of mouth 12 Boat trailers?

13 Concrete section 14 Boss’s order 15 U-shaped river bends 16 Bit of energy 17 Potential Derby winner 18 Like a fox 28 Newspaper piece 30 Ballroom dance 32 Queen of the Olympian gods 34 ___ Gables (Miami suburb)

35 A Leeward Island 36 Agree 37 Flower stalk 38 “We’ve been ___!”

39 “Go team!”

40 Way to check for cavities?

41 Handy 42 Dog-___ (bent at the corner) 44 Angler’s gear 45 Cast out 48 Adage 49 L.A. hoopster 50 Desktop pictures 51 Chess side 53 Gourmet mushroom 56 Fracture finders 58 Faucet problems 59 Like a lizard’s skin 60 Brit’s greeting 61 A pint, maybe 65 Sleep on it 66 Loose rocks at a cliff’s base 68 Crop pest 69 Clinton’s Secretary of Labor Robert 70 Offers on eBay, e.g.

73 Put on TV 74 Abominable

75 Give the boot 78 Any thing 82 Lt.’s subordinate 83 All-encompassing 84 Breach of security 85 “Will that be ___?”

86 Sport in which “ attack” is a position 88 Investigate 90 Hawaiian tuber 92 Carbon organic compound 93 Far from uninterested 94 Padded envelope 95 Many a condo 97 Caterpillar hairs, e.g.

98 Indiana’s state flower 99 Pro ___ (in proportion) 100 Elevator pioneer 101 Pepper’s partner 102 Starchy foodstuff 103 Still-life water pitcher 104 Three-toed bird 105 Tall-tale teller 106 Kitten’s plaything 107 A medium’s medium, briefly

3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP

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