05.30.13 Plant City Observer by Plant City Observer

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pitching machine CONTEST

Plant City honors its fallen heroes on Memorial Day.

Durant’s Tyler Danish’s See inside for draft stock is rising this week’s photo at the perfect time. contest winner.

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OUR TOWN

Chamber Chairman Jim Scott and Walden Lake Car Wash’s Frank Cummings

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show of support

full circle by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

LOVE OF A

Resident spearheads supply drive for Oklahoma

LIFETIME

Southside Farm and Pet Supply helped resident Kole Hillman gather supplies for those affected by the EF5 tornado.

+ Leadership Class completes course The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s 2013 Leadership Class celebrated the end of its year with a ceremony May 23, at Keel and Curley Winery. This year’s students included Debi Brightwell (South Florida Baptist Hospital), Chaun Buttorff (Jarrett-Scott Ford), Frank Cummings (Walden Lake Car Wash and Service Center), Janice English (MidFlorida Credit Union), Peggy Forget (MacDonald Training Center Inc.), Rick Jackson (Tampa Electric Company), Amber Jurgensen (Plant City Observer), Amity Kokochak (World Radio Inc.), Brittany Lopez (Farm Credit of Central Florida), Nikki McAlpine (Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce), Earlene Meyer (South Florida Baptist Hospital), Lisa Rhodes (Plant City Handyman Inc. and PC Home Maintenance), Lisa Solary (Bella, Hermida, Hurn & Stertzer), Joanna Verga (Tampa Bay Times), and Dawn Zaversnik (Plant City Photo Archives and History Center).

+ Faith Christian graduates class Preschoolers Leah Dismukes and Josias Cantillo were just two members of Faith Christian Academy’s Class of 2013. The Plant City school honored its graduates May 23, with a special commencement ceremony. During the ceremony, the students performed the Pledge of Allegiance, the Pledge to the Christian flag and songs.

Courtesy photos

Alexis De La Garza and Thalia Ordaz first met when they were only 1 year old. They found each other again — 18 years later — and in August will be married.

Thalia Ordaz and Alexis De La Garza met for the first time — twice. And when they marry in August, they will complete a story fit for the silver screen. Thalia Ordaz and Alexis De La Garza have been happily engaged for more than a year. But, the couple doesn’t remember the first time they met. It’s not because of a fit of amnesia. Or that their first encounter wasn’t memorable. In fact, their story is so memorable, that it endured the test of time. Quite literally. Ordaz and De La Garza met when they were only 1 year old — in 1990, at Ordaz’s birthday party. The couple’s parents, Raul and Rosie Ordaz and Homero Jr.

and Nora De La Garza, were family friends. De La Garza was the first to arrive at the party. Rosie couldn’t help but take pictures of the two tots together. The family joked that the two would get married someday. De La Garza had snuck into the family photo album, but the two families soon grew apart. The party was the last Ordaz saw of him. Until 2008. Ordaz had just graduated from Durant High School, De La Garza from Plant City High School. A mutual group of friends brought them to-

gether for the summer. Of course, their adult faces were now unrecognizable to each other. When the two started dating, Ordaz told her mother about the special boy who was courting her. When the curious mother asked his name, she couldn’t believe her ears. “I said, ‘Oh my gosh!’” Rosie Ordaz says. “I pulled out the photo album to show her the pictures.” Ordaz couldn’t believe the connection, either. “It was a weird shocker,”

SEE LOVE STORY / PAGE 2

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

Employees from Southside Farm and Pet Supply filed out of the store May 24, carrying boxes overflowing with clothes, food and supplies. Sweat dripped down their foreheads, as they stuffed the incredible amount of donations into a borrowed trailer. The goods were for those in Oklahoma devastated by a monstrous EF5 tornado. The day before, employees helped pull $7,000 in new jeans of all sizes from the store shelves. Southside owners Tim and Pam Lopez wanted to give to the cause, as well. All week, the store’s electronic marquee blinked “Donate for Oklahoma here.” The woman behind the project is Kole Hillman. With rodeo friends in Oklahoma, Hillman watched and learned about the destruction in Moore and the surrounding areas on the news. All the while, she was waiting for phone calls from loved ones and friends. “It just really hit home,” Hillman said. “Being in the rodeo circuit, I thought I have to help these people.” So, Hillman began asking businesses to become drop-off points for donations. She has collected at different locations through-

SEE DONATIONS / PAGE 2

Amber Jurgensen

Kole Hillman said Southside has been her best donation site.

Vol. 1, No. 48 | One section

Crossword.............13

Obituaries...............8

Sports.....................9 PlantCityObserver.com

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THURSDAY, may 30, 2013

DONATIONS/PAGE 1

Ordaz says. “But, it was sweet. It was a big coincidence — a lucky coincidence.” Ordaz learned her grandparents and De La Garza’s grandparents were from the same area of Mexico — Matamoros. They worked in the fields together and migrated to the same towns for work. Their parents even attended each other’s weddings. The families ended up in Plant City. When life got busy, the two families grew apart. But fate didn’t allow them to

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be separated for long. When Ordaz texted him the picture and told him of their unknown connection, De La Garza found it funny. “It’s weird that we had pictures together but didn’t even meet throughout high school,” De La Garza says. After dating for four years, De La Garza proposed. He originally wanted to pop the question when the couple graduated in May 2012, from the University of South Florida. Ordaz was studying elementary education and De La Garza criminology.

But De La Garza couldn’t wait. He surprised Ordaz, and her family, with an Easter proposal. After breakfast, the couple took a walk at the Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex. “I knew right away something was off,” Ordaz says. “At breakfast, he was pushing his food around and wasn’t himself.” When De La Garza got down on one knee, Ordaz threw the ice cream cone she was eating to the ground. The couple is planning an Aug. 3 wedding at St. Clement Catholic Church, with a recep-

tion, in Valrico. The guest list is up to 300 people. “It’s like my big fat Mexican wedding,” Ordaz says, laughing. Following the ceremony, the couple will cruise to the Caribbean on the Allure of the Seas. They plan to live in Plant City close to their families, which will soon meld into one. “Coming into the family has just been so easy,” De La Garza says. “The families know each other already.” Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

Alexis De La Garza and Thalia Ordaz will be married Aug. 3.

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LOVE STORY/PAGE 1

“These are our family,” Hillman said. “When one of the family members says we need help, we do it.” Some of Hillman’s donations are going to her friend Mary Arbuckle’s charity in Oklahoma, Other Options Inc. Hillman would like to make another trip if she can get funding for gas. But for now, she is amazed at the extreme generosity of the community. “I’m overwhelmed and humbled,” Hillman said. “It’s been a whirlwind. I’m in awe.” Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

The City Of Plant City will conduct smoke testing on the mainline sewer system in the Sugarcreek Subdivision starting June 3, 2013 Thru June 13, 2013. If you have any questions please contact Eddie Lancaster at 813-757-9288 ext. 4725

POSSIBLE. GET MORE THAN YOU THOUGHT

La ciudad de planta realizará pruebas de humo en el sistema de alcantarillado principal en la subdivisión de Sugarcreek a partir de 03 de junio de 2013 a través de 13 de junio, 2013. Si usted tiene alguna pregunta póngase en contacto con Eddie Lancaster at 813-757-9288 ext. 4725.

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Amber Jurgensen

Donations from the Plant City community piled up in front of Southside Farm and Pet Supply.

out Tampa. One night, she set up her trailer in Channelside to collect donations. She went through three tanks of gas buzzing around Tampa Bay to collect. Southside has stood out as the largest donation site. Hillman has come three times to pick up donations at the Plant City store and she said Southside’s donors have contributed 10 times as much as any other location. “The whole front area was piled high with donations,” Pam Lopez said. “They blocked the door, so we had to buy boxes and pallets to take them outside.”

Employee Mylie Feaster watched the supplies pile up all week. “It’s amazing to have such a small town that wants to make a big impact for people we don’t even know,” Feaster said. Hillman herself climbed in a trailer last weekend to make the 22-hour trip Oklahoma. She spent $1,400 of her own money on gas to get there. Hillman wasn’t alone in her journey. She put out a call to all her rodeo friends throughout the country through Facebook and phone calls. They also have been helping with donations, finding trailers and driving.

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THURSDAY, may 30, 2013

exchange program by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Taiwanese GSE team visits Plant City The team of six are staying with residents for half of their trip. A table at O’Brien’s Irish Pub & Grill, in Plant City, was filled with chatter May 24. If a nearby diner picked up on some of the conversation, he or she might have thought it sounded foreign. It was. Six career professionals from Taiwan were visiting Florida as part of a Rotary program called the Group Study Exchange. They spoke with their Plant City host families in English and Mandarin. The visitors are not Rotarians. Instead, they are selected by their district’s Rotary Club to represent their professions and the club. In April, Plant City resident Sophia Hyde was selected as part of the GSE Team that sent Americans to Taiwan. Hyde enthusiastically talked to the visitors, which had jobs ranging from a police officer to a musician and composer. She met them previously during her stay in Taiwan and was curious to hear about their experiences. “They participated in quite a few of the events we did (in Taiwan),” Hyde said. “I picked up on

my own differences between the two cultures, but it was so interesting to see how they noticed different things from their perspective.” Arriving on May 18, in Tampa, the group stayed with host families in Sun City Center for the first half of their trip. There, they visited a retirement community, Freedom Plaza. To Grace Liu, Jinny Chen and Synia Su, the cultural differences on family dynamics was very apparent. “We were so touched,” Su said. “What we’re taught is that we should take care of our parents through their whole life, and not send them away.” “But we saw them very happy,” Liu said. Chen also noticed the difference in lifestyles between the two countries. “Here is more easier,” Chen said. “The lifestyle is different here. It’s more spontaneous. “We treat everything like a very big deal (in Taiwan),” she said. “Everything.” The GSE students then transferred May 24, to their Plant City

TIME OF THEIR LIVES

host families in Plant City. Dennis and Delores Digamon hosted Su and Liu. Ed Bozeman hosted Louie Chen. David Miller hosted Phillip Hsieh. George and Cassandra Banning hosted Jinny Chen and team leader Vincent Kuan. “As far as preparation, Fred Oeters and myself were asked to handle the team’s visit to Plant City,” George Banning said. “Having been involved in the GSE program for years and hosting over 19 teams, I pretty much knew the drill.” George Banning contacted other Rotarians who had hosted families in the past. He also contacted Hyde to see what the groups interests were to better arrange tours. Hyde had helped arrange a tour to Parkesdale Farm Market. “We had a very good time there,” Kuan said. “We saw lots of ice cream, plants, flowers and strawberry-related items.” What Kuan loved most about Parkesdale was the story behind its owner. “It’s motivating and inspiring,” Kuan said. “The second and third generation continued it.”

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Amber Jurgensen

The GSE team and their host families enjoyed dinner at O’Brien’s, in Plant City. Kuan has been to the United States before with his job. He has visited Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach along with Tampa. As much as Kuan has toured Florida, he was looking forward to visiting the Kennedy Space Center. He hasn’t had a chance to tour it yet. “It’s a great opportunity for me,” Kuan said. The team will leave June 15, for home.

“I have personally learned a great deal about Taiwan also known as Formosa,” George Banning said. “It is amazing what you learn by spending time with people one on one that you can never know by listening to the news and even ready about in history books.” Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

governance by Michael Eng | Managing Editor

City to issue 3% COLA payments to employees The required funds will come from each department’s existing budget, as well as an increase in sales-tax revenue.

Da-Shaa Arthur, Kelsey Williams, Kristen Wyckoff and Dwayne Jenkins

SENIOR CELEBRATION

Walden Lake Elementary School graduates returned to their old stomping grounds one last time May 20, for a reunion celebration. For 10 years, Walden Lake has opened its doors to its former students for a reunion before they graduate from high school. Former teachers, administrators and friends all connected over snacks and drinks in the media center.

Sarah Winters, Katelyn Sykes and Nicole Arnold

Plant City commissioners approved May 28, a 3% cost-ofliving adjustment for all city employees. The raise will come at a cost of $396,600, which will be taken from existing department budgets, as well as a $170,000 increase in sales-tax revenue, said City Manager Greg Horwedel. “We have a number of dedicated employees, and to stay competitive in today’s environment, we want to reward them for work well done,” he said. “(We want) to let our employees know they are doing a great job.” In the original proposal for the COLA adjustment, Horwedel was not included in the program. However, City Commissioner Rick Lott proposed a revision to add $4,200 to reward the city manager, as well. Mayor Mike Sparkman, Vice Mayor Mary Thomas Mathis and commissioners Billy Keel and Bill Dodson supported the revision. “Your leadership that helped keep all the managers within budget, and you should be included, as well,” Keel said. “You could and did everything in your power to have excess. This is a very just reward for those efforts.”

THONOTOSASSA ROAD

Tayler Kip and Kyle Harrell

Casey Hamilton, Kateri Emery and Danielle Findley

Austin Baxter and Brad Wainons

City commissioners delayed for two months a decision to rename one of the three segments of Thonotosassa Road. Assistant to the City Manager

Mike Karr told commissioners the city only had received two suggestions for renaming the segment between Mobley and Dort streets. One suggestion is to name it after Dr. James L. Stevens, a dentist who died in 2001, from cancer. The second, received through the Plant City Observer, is to name it after Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Dep. David Anthony Abella, who died in 2004, in the line of duty. However, commissioners said they were uncomfortable moving forward with either suggestion. “Let me be clear: It’s nothing against these two suggestions,” Lott said. “But this is the first time I’ve heard these names, and it would be irresponsible to vote without more discussion.” Sparkman said his preference is to not change the name. “I’m leaning toward leaving it alone,” he said. The commission voted in January to explore options to rename the road. The directive came after some business owners along the three Thonotosassa Road segments said clients were having difficulty finding their establishments. Karr said any name will have to be approved by Hillsborough County’s 911 agency. The commission is scheduled to revisit the issue at its July 29 meeting. Contact Michael Eng at meng@ plantcityobserver.com.

Your Community Full Service Discount Pharmacy.

Plant city observer

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THURSDAY, may 30, 2013

honoring a legacy by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

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Longtime city employee honored with street sign The circular drive around the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center in Plant City was named May 24, in honor of one of the center’s first employees. The drive was named “Eddie C. Brooks Circle,” after Eddie Brooks, who worked at the MLK Recreation Center for 46 years, before retiring in 2008 at age 70. Plant City Vice Mayor Mary Thomas Mathis’ recommendation to rename the circle was approved at a Plant City Commission meeting April 8. Brooks was recommended for the lead

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The circular drive wrapping around the Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center was named after longtime employee Eddie Brooks, seated in the center.

BUSs THE BOVINE

position at the Haines Street Recreation Center when he was just 23 years old. At the time, he was coaching girls basketball at Marshall High School. The center was later renamed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center. A true pioneer for recreation and youth development in African-American communities, Brooks served as the president for the Orange State Recreation Association, now known as the Florida Recreation and Parks Association.

by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

Cork Elementary counselor puckers up for good cause

PLANT CITY

PHOTO ARCHIVES & HISTORY CENTER

Cork Elementary guidance counselor Tim Godshall puckered up to kiss Aly the cow May 21, as a reward to students for placing first in the United Food Bank of Plant City food drive for schools. When Godshall took the job at Cork in 2009, he learned about efforts to collect food for the food bank’s annual drive. He promised the kids that if his students placed in the competition in the elementary school division, he would kiss a pig. In 2010, Cork raised 1,165 pounds of food, and Godshall held strong to his promise. The next year, he switched things up by taking a pie in the face, after Cork placed first against all Plant City-area elementary schools, by raising 2,554 pounds. In 2012, Cork more than doubled its efforts, collecting 6,560 pounds. Godshall plans to continue the stunts to

MeetBOlOK SlGNIN FelIx Ocal au G! h GIl GOayNeS, NIc thOrS: K BrOw tt, DI N, cK elStON

Matt Mauney

Aly the cow awaits her smooch from Tim Godshall, a counselor at Cork Elementary.

reward students for their efforts. He said he is considering kissing a gator in the future and has even considered sky diving. “I’m not sure if the district’s workers’ comp would cover that,” he said.

Life is better in the Quick Lane. Auto service just got better!

the Works Package $ 95

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Oil Change, 4 tire rotation, battery inspection, multipoint inspection, check and top off all fluids, and brake inspection.

PhoTo ArChIves & hIsTorY CeNTer

106 South Evers Street Historic Downtown Plant City

Shop supplies and tax extra. Most cars and light trucks. Expires 6/16/13

Special Prices for this event! Refreshments

Four local authors -Felix Haynes, Nick Brown, Gil Gott and Dick Elston will talk about their books, answer questions and sign autographs. It’ll be a fun event and you’ll want to hang around awhile and enjoy the camaraderie, the refreshments, and the discussions.

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THURSDAY, may 30, 2013

heroic effort

by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

Plant City resident passes blood-donation milestone Part-time resident Omer Elwer has donated 70 gallons of blood and doesn’t plan to stop any time soon. Omer Elwer knows how precious life can be, and he has dedicated his to helping give life to others. To date, Elwer has donated more than 70 gallons of blood between Florida and his home in Defiance, Ohio. Elwer hit the 70-gallon mark in March, at Florida Blood Services, 2909 James L. Redman Parkway, Plant City. Elwer spends five months of the year in Florida at Spanish Main RV Park and Courtesy photo Resort, in Thonotosassa, Part-time Plant City resident Omer Elwer hit the 70-galand primarily gives platelet lon mark at the Florida Blood Services donor center off donations, which are trans- James L. Redman Parkway. fused into cancer patients to sustain life during treatments. After realizing that the donation cenFlorida Blood Services ters up north and in Florida had no com(One Blood) bined records of his donations, Elwer WHERE: 2909 James L. Redman took it upon himself to chart and track Parkway Suite 6 his statistics. HOURS: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays; He has had 560 whole blood and plate9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through let transfusions, resulting in the impresFridays; 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays sive 70-gallon total. PHONE: (813) 752-7638 In 2010, after nearly 40 years of donating, Elwer had to have five surgeries for WEBSITE: oneblood.org internal bleeding, needing a total of four INFORMATION: 1-800-68 BLOOD gallons of blood transfusions. (25663) or visit fbsblood.org He has continued to give donations since the surgeries and said he will continue as long as he “feels good and is Elwer then turned to donating platehealthy.” lets, where blood is collected by a cell“I’m going to keep giving as long as separating machine — a process called I can give,” he said. “I would love to be apheresis. The platelets are removed, able to reach 100 gallons, even if that and the rest of the blood components are means I’m 100 years old when I do it.” returned to the donor. Elwer began working in the early 1970s, Because platelet donors must lie perin the GM foundry, in Defiance. The Red fectly still and stay awake for nearly two Cross visited periodically, so employees hours, Elwer, a devout Catholic, chooses could donate blood on-site. He began to use that as meditation time. donating whole blood once a year. “There is a physical part to it and a “After giving blood for a while, I no- spiritual part of it,” he said about donatticed that it got rid of nose bleeds that I ing. “When you are lying there and evwould have,” he said. erything is quiet, that’s the deeper spiriWhen he felt one coming on, it was a tual side. Only God can give life through sign to donate. Learning the benefits do- platelets.” nating had on others, Elwer continued to Contact Matt Mauney at mmauney@ donate regularly through June 15, 2000. plantcityobserver.com.

NOTICE OF SALE

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In accordance with the provisions of State Law there being due and unpaid charges for which the undersigned is entitled to satisfy and owner and/or manager’s lien of goods hereinafter described and stored at: Rentlok Self Storage located at 1205 S Alexander St., Plant City, FL 33563, 813-759-2800. And due notice having been given, to the owner of said property and all parties know to claim an interest therein, and the time specified in such notice for payment of such having expired, the goods will be sold at public auction at the above stated locations to the highest bidder or otherwise disposed of on THURSDAY, 13th of JUNE 2013 @ 10:00 AM. OR ANY DATE THERE IN AFTER. Lori Alexander-Hsld gds • Charles Box Jr.-Hsld gds • Rachel Christie-Hsld gds Rene De La Fuenta-Box truck YEAR: 1990 MAKE: GMC VIN: 1GDJ7H1P5LJ604549 Gerald Dicken-Hsld gds Thomas Fouts-Motor vehicle- YEAR: 1986 MAKE: FORD VIN: 1FTEF14N7GNA17570 Geomap- Survey Equip, Company records Geomap- Vessel-YEAR: 1984 MAKE: MAK 2 HIN: MAK228260284 Geomap- Vessel- YEAR: 1995 MAKE: YSI 1 HIN: YSIA0352I495 Wendy Mitchell-Vehicle YEAR: 1992 MAKE: SHAST VIN: 1TS2B1451N9003239

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PLANT CITY

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

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



The Plant City Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. It provides free home delivery to several neighborhoods in Plant City. The Plant City Observer also can be found in many commercial locations throughout Plant City and at our office, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A. If you wish to discontinue home delivery or if you wish to suspend home delivery temporarily, call Linda Lancaster at 704-6850.

TO ADVERTISE Call Veronica Prostko at 704-6850.

SEND US YOUR NEWS

We want to hear from you. Let us know about your community events, celebrations and family member achievements. To contact us, send your information via: Email: Michael Eng, meng@plantcityobserver.com

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

THURSDAY, may 30, 2013

the write stuff by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

Photo archives to showcase four Plant City-area authors Local authors Felix Haynes, Nick Brown, Gil Gott and Dick Elston will sign copies of their books, ranging from fiction to historical non-fiction. You don’t have to look outside of Plant City to read published works from talented authors. Local authors Felix Haynes, Nick Brown, Gil Gott and Dick Elston will be selling, signing and discussing their books from 5 to 7 p.m. June 4, at the Plant City Photo Archives & History Center. The event will feature one-onone talks with each author, along with refreshments, including wine and cheese. The books include Haynes’ “No Substitute for Victory,” Brown’s “Strawberries and Steel,” Gott’s “Remembering Plant City: Tales from the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World” and Elston’s “The Life and Times of Plant City in the 1940s.” A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the photo archives.

Felix Haynes

Haynes is a former president at the Hillsborough Community College Plant City campus and part owner and founding publisher of the Plant City Observer. A lover of history, Haynes has written three books and enjoys historical fiction, blending fictional novels with true events. “No Substitute for Victory” is set in the late 1960s at the University of Florida, in Gainesville. Haynes, like the two main characters in the book, studied journalism at UF during that time and was involved in a fraternity and ROTC. Haynes served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. In the book, the two main characters have to balance their enjoyable and primarily carefree college lifestyles with dealing with their military obligations as the war approaches. “I lived a lot of those experiences,” Haynes said. “No Substitute for Victory” is the second book Haynes has written. He will be selling copies for $10 while also promoting his latest work, “Bully!,” a historical fiction book based around President Theodore Roosevelt and the Panama Canal in the early 1920s.

Gil Gott

As the executive director of the

BOOK SIGNING WHEN: 5 to 7 p.m. June 4 WHERE: Plant City Photo Archives & History Center, 106 S. Evers St. DETAILS: Local authors will talk about their books, answer questions and sign books. Refreshments will be provided for the free event. The four books will be available to purchase at special prices. INFORMATION: Plant City Photo Archives, (813) 7541578 or plantcityphotoarchives.org.

Plant City Photo Archives & History Center, Gott loves history — especially the rich history found in small towns across America. “I’m fascinated with small-town history, Gott said. “I believe, if you put together all of the small-town history, you would have the scope of history in the United States.” “Remembering Plant City: Tales from the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World” is a collection of 39 vignettes about people, places and events in the history of Plant City. The History Press, a publishing company in Charleston, S.C., came to Gott to put together a collection of his short stories. “It’s something that you can pick up at any point and read,” Gott said. Having lots of historical photos was something Gott made sure to include. “Photos tell their own stories, sometimes,” he said. Gott, who also writes a monthly historical column for the Plant City Observer, grew up in Pennsylvania and attended Georgetown in Washington, D.C. before attending graduate school back in Pennsylvania. He moved in 1985, to Florida and later began teaching history in 2000, at the HCC Plant City campus.

Nick Brown

A native of Washington, D.C., Brown is a graduate of Gonzaga

High and received bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Catholic University. He had a career in engineering, including aerodynamic testing and analysis, utility-power systems and synthetic fuels development, rocket motor design and missile systems analysis. After moving to Plant City 11 years ago, Brown kept hearing stories of Cliff Hardee, a late steel tycoon in the area. “Strawberries and Steel” tells about the Plant City Steel Corporation and the lives of founders Cliff and Ethel Hardee. The corporation became Florida’s largest steel fabricator and manufactured everything from storage tanks to the structural steel on rides at Disney World. “I kept hearing stories about Mr. Hardee, and I thought that this guy sounds like an interesting subject for a book,” said Brown, who had written three novels prior to his first biography. Brown’s book follows the story of the Hardees’ love for family, their employees and their friends and neighbors in the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World. Although Cliff Hardee died long before Brown arrived in Plant City, Brown got to know Ethel Hardee and decided to write the book after she died in 2009. “This was my way of paying tribute to Ethel, and although I never had the pleasure of meeting him, Cliff Hardee,” Brown said.

education The Plant City Observer LLC Locally Owned

Publisher of the Plant City Observer and PlantCityObserver.com

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

Dick Elston

Former Plant City Mayor Richard “Dick” Elston reflects on what Plant City was like in the early years in his book, “The Life and Times of Plant City in the 1940s.” In the book, Elston talks about the USO opening in the Wells Building at Evers and North Drane, the rationing during World War II and time spent in Plant City, when the town was much different than what it is today. “I don’t really consider myself a writer, but this is home-brewed stuff,” he said of the 50-page, spiral-bound book, which was printed locally. “I just wanted to write something about Plant City in a time I remember so well.” Born in 1932, Elston attended Wilson Elementary, Tomlin Junior High and graduated in 1951, from Plant City High. In addition to serving as mayor, Elston also has served as a volunteer firefighter for the Plant City Fire Department and worked as a type setter for the Plant City Courier. Later, he attended the University of Florida and worked at the Gainesville Sun. Elston served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War and returned in 1956, to Plant City, where he joined his father in the insurance industry. “I wrote this book for people I know who like to reminisce about the old days,” he said. Contact Matt Mauney at mmauney@plantcityobserver.com.

by Michael Eng | Managing Editor

Lincoln Elementary students take a hike Students in all grade levels at Lincoln Elementary Magnet School laced up for a day full of fundraising May 9, during the school’s first Go Take a Hike walk-a-thon. Before the event, the students solicited pledges from family members, friends

and local businesses to raise money for the Lincoln Parent-Teacher Association. Go Take a Hike owner Pablo Montanez encouraged the students as they took laps around the track. He also led them in a series of fun dances.

Many students started the walk-a-thon by running as fast as they could.

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 30, 2013

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Plant City’s Ladies Bible Study group includes members of many denominations.

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Have you ever looked at a stained— and simply shared that as a chaplain glassed window? Why? What is the appeal? in the U.S. Army, the part I loved about To the regular eye, it is just a bunch of the military chapels was that when we colored pieces of glass stuck together with prayed, sang, served and listened to God’s glue. Nothing special ... or is it? It is often word, we did it as a body of Christ — not not the colors that draw us in but rather as individual denominations. Every one of the picture created from these us added a unique and brilliant color kaleidoscopes of colors. to the stained glass of God’s church. What if I told you that you are No color is more important or less surrounded with stained-glass necessary. All contribute to a vibrant windows in Plant City? You would and needed glow of grace that takes probably respond, “Well, duh. I a central light and creates a showhave been here all my life. You are case of color for the world to see. the one just coming back after 25 Regarding the ladies Bible study, years!” this is what the founder and facilitaAlthough this may be true, I tor Martha Sue Skinner said: “From CHAPLAIN RET. am not referring to the stainedthe humble beginning of five ladies MAJ. DANIEL glass windows on so many of MIDDLEBROOKS in their homes, our study did indeed our churches. I am referring to begin to grow. Our next decision was the stained-glass pieces of art that walk, to have a noon hour to perhaps attract talk and live in our community. These are working ladies. Since that time, we have the best masterpieces, because they form moved to larger places three times, as we incredible designs of families, friends and outgrew each one, since 2009. Now, we are businesses. They also, more importantly to meeting from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesme, form the best picture of the church. days, September through May, at the PlanA few weeks ago, I had the wonderteen Recreation Center, 401 Dort St. ful pleasure of meeting with a group of “The ladies are a very diverse group in ladies for an afternoon Bible study and ages and spiritual backgrounds, representluncheon. Oh, the sacrifices of retirement, ing 15 or more different church affiliations but someone has to do it. What made this and no church affiliations,” she said. “This a unique time for me was that this study is our fourth year, with 60-plus strong group included a diverse group of ladies and average attendance of 35 each week. from an even greater diversity of deWe now have a great large room, and we nominations — Methodist, Presbyterian, welcome each and every new face in the Assembly of God, Baptist, Catholic and fall when school starts back.” more. Some were from the area, and some These ladies continue to come and add from as far as 30 or 40 minutes away. They their special pieces to the growing stainedtalked, shared, encouraged and throughglass window of a community of faith. The out the school year, they study the Bible best part is there is always room for more together. pieces to be added. What color will you During the opening part of the lunadd? cheon, they did something brave — they Chaplain Ret. Maj. Daniel Middleasked me to speak. It wasn’t that I was not brooks is president and CEO of Compreprepared; it is just a good rule to never hensive Chaplaincy Care and Consulting give the floor to a preacher when it is time and pastor at Hopewell Baptist Church. to eat (unless you are having a cold salad, For more information, call (813) 767and it does not matter how long you go). 2082 or email to chaplainmiddlebrooks@ I spoke for a few moments — really I did hotmail.com.

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PlantCityObserver.com

we remember

THURSDAY, may 30, 2013

by Michael Eng | Managing Editor

OBSERVEROBITUARIES Kay Carrington Brewer

The MacDonald family: Tracy, Ron and son Andrew

Plant City honors fallen heroes at 2013 Memorial Day Service Norman McLeod Post 26 American Legion hosted its annual Memorial Day Service May 27, in Plant City. This year’s service included the posting of the colors by the Plant City High School JROTC, the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Cub Scout Pack 5, speeches and a bagpipe performance. Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed a barbecue lunch and fellowship.

Flag Day Thursday

June 14

Kay Carrington Brewer, 78, of Okeechobee, died May 18, 2013. He was born Oct. 30, 1934, in Plant City. Mr. Brewer proudly served in the U.S. Marines in Korea, the U.S. Air Force and was with the 5th Special Forces in the U.S. Army, in Vietnam, as a radio operator. He finished his military career in the National Guard and Army Reserves, retiring at 60 from the Army. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Marian Louise Brewer; sons, Alvin Brewer, Kevin C. Brewer and Keith P. Brewer; daughter, Anita Walmsly (Jeff); sister, Marjorie Daigle (Paul); brother-in-law, Breaux Bridge; 11 grandchildren; and numerous cousins, family and friends. Mr. Brewer was preceded in death by his parents, William A. and Alleta Brewer; baby daughter, Tina Louise; and sisters, Faye Thompson and Suegene Levin. Burial was May 23, at South Florida National Cemetery, in Lake Worth. Online condolences may be made at OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com.

Virginia “Ginny” Ruth Diaz

Julian Womble delivered a speech about Memorial Day.

In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation that officially established June 14th as Flag Day. This day commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States. In 1949, National Flag Day was established by an Act of Congress. The United States Army also celebrates its birthday on this day in June. According to the U.S. Code, Title 4, Chapter I Section 8(j) says “The flag represents a living country and is itself considered a living thing.”

Virginia “Ginny” Ruth Diaz, 66, of Plant City, died May 20, 2013, at Moffitt Cancer Center. Born Sept. 15, 1946, in Tampa, she was the daughter of the late George and the late Vivian Sparrow Wanamaker. She was the beloved wife of Jack Diaz. Mrs. Diaz was the financial clerk for the Shiloh Baptist Association, was active at East Thonotosassa Baptist Church and was a Gideon’s Auxiliary. She loved her grandchildren and was most happy when “keeping her family in line.” Survivors include her sons, Jack Diaz (Cathi), Michael Diaz (Carrie) and Ed When the honor guard correctly folds the American Flag (as seen in military funerals) 13 times, there is a reason for each fold. 1st fold 2nd fold 3rd fold 4th fold 5th fold 6th fold 7th fold 8th fold 9th fold 10th fold 11th fold

12th fold 13th fold

Represents a symbol of life Our belief in eternal life Honor and remembrance of vet Our weaker nature and trust in God Tribute to our country Where our hearts lie Tribute to our Armed Forces One who enters into the valley of the shadow of death Tribute to womanhood and Mothers Tribute of father Represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon, and glorifies the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob Represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit “In God We Trust”

Stewart; daughters, Cynthia Strazzulla (Paul) and Vanessa Coldwell (Scott); brother, Sammy Wanamaker; sisters, Becky Barton and Jan Walker; and 15 grandchildren. If so desired, donations may be made in Mrs. Diaz’ memory to Gideon’s International, Plant City Campus, P.O. Box 1469, Plant City, FL. 33564. Online condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Edith Ramona Futch

Edith Ramona Futch, 71, of Plant City, died May 17, 2013, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center. Born Oct. 21, 1941, in Lakeland, she was the daughter of the late Raymond Futch and the late Inez Roseborough Futch. She was a teller for a bank in Winter Haven and retired from Publix Federal Credit Union. She was a member of Trinity Life Church of God. Survivors include her brothers, Raymond Futch (Peggie) and Robert Futch (Geneva); and sister-in-law, Marie Futch. If so desired, donations may be made in Edith Futch’s memory to Trinity Life Church of God’s General Fund. Online condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com.

James Oran Spear

James Oran Spear, 84,of Tampa/Plant City, died May 23, 2013. Born Jan. 9, 1929, in Bluntstown, he was the son of the late Roy Spear and Eula Coxwell Spear. He was the beloved husband of Alma Gatlin Spear. Survivors include sons, Lawrence Spear, James Spear, Michael Spear and Mark Spear; 14 grandchildren; and 25 greatgrandchildren Online condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com. After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the Sailors and Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones, who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights, privileges and freedoms we enjoy today. The colors of the American Flag also have meaning … RED — Valor and Hardiness WHITE — Innocence and Purity BLUE — Vigilance, Perseverance and Justice The FLAG CODE allows any deceased to be allowed to have the flag adorning a coffin. Veterans are the most common to flag theirs, but anyone is allowed to use the flag in this manner.

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Sports

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Emily Hobbs a force in the pool. 11

PLANTCITYObserver.com

THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2013

on the mound

by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

PITCHING MACHINE Durant ace Tyler Danish ended his senior year with the Cougars with video game-like numbers. Now, he is a week away from possibly making a childhood dream a reality, as the MLB Draft approaches.

ay has been a busy and eventful month for Tyler Danish. June could be even better. It’s been just two weeks since he took his Durant baseball team to the Class 8A state championship in Fort Myers — and things haven’t quieted down since his high school career ended. His phone has been ringing off the hook, and pro scouts have made long trips to his home, telling him how they believe their franchise is the right fit for the right-handed pitcher. A week from now, Danish will be presented with an important decision — one few 18-year-olds have to make and one many players only dream of making. Danish has been verbally committed to the University of Florida since the summer going into his junior year at Durant, but after two stellar seasons, including not allowing an earned run in 94 innings pitched his senior year, Danish’s MLB draft stock has skyrocketed, while the Gators hope they can keep one of the best prep pitchers in the nation on their recruitment list.

FOCUS

High school can be stressful for most athletes, having to balance classes with athletic commitments. Throw in constant contact and meetings with scouts, loads of media attention and every opposing team putting a bull’s-eye on your back, and it can be overwhelming. “It’s hard to be the guy that everyone looks up to and the guy the other team wants to beat, but I think I did an amazing job of keeping focused and just playing the way I always play and play my way,” said the standout, after Durant’s 8-3 loss to Lake Brantley in the Class 8A state championship. Danish learned the fine art of composure — both on the mound and in daily life — from his parents. “Ever since I was little, they taught me to stay focused when I was on the mound and not let my emotions show,” he said. The ace kept this demeanor through his senior season with the Cougars, and if his dominating pitches weren’t intimidating enough, Danish’s stoic-like presence on the mound struck fear into batters and opposing teams. Social-media sites such as Facebook and Twitter were populated with comments about Danish from competition all season. Some were trash talk, echoed by live performances from the opposing dugouts. Others were teams practically admitting defeat before the 6-1, 185-pound righthander even took the mound. “We know they didn’t want to see TD on the mound,” Durant coach Butch Valdes said after a win over Timber Creek gave Durant its first region

SEE MACHINE / PAGE 10

Plant city observer

PlantCityObserver.com

pigskin preview

THURSDAY, may 30, 2013

by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

Spring football season showcases area teams

Rayquan Johnson got the start at quarterback, while Hassan Bailey made several plays at running back. Right: Austin Carswell will be a playmaker for Strawberry Crest this season. Strawberry Crest struggled to get anything going against the athletic Armwood defense, racking up more turnovers and penalty yards than completions and yards gained. “It’s never as bad as it looks and it’s never as good as it seems, either, but even with a 34-0 defeat, we’re going to find a silver

lining,” SCHS head coach John Kelly said. “We’re going to learn from it and grow from it and go into the summer with the mentality that we’re going to work hard.” Contact Matt Mauney at mmauney@plantcityobserver.com.

MACHINE / 9 championship. “When he pitches, he does what he always does — shuts them up and shuts the door.” Last week, he met with scouts from the Houston Astros and Cincinnati Reds. Earlier this week, he had a workout for the Miami Marlins. And all this while counting down the days until high school graduation and accepting a plethora of awards. Danish already has been named the best player in the state by the Florida Athletic Coaches Association and is DANISH’S up for the MaxPreps National DIGITS Player of the Year and the GaTyler Danish led torade National Player of the Durant in the folYear. lowing categories: Through all this, he has maintained that same composure he 0.00 — The shows on the mound. final ERA, after “I’d rather be in this situation 94 innings than not to be in this situation,” pitched as a he said. “This has always been senior. a dream of mine, and I’m just 156 — The glad that I’m able to be living it.” number of strikeouts this season, SOMETHING TO PROVE compared to just There’s a saying that numbers 16 walks. never lie. 15 — Danish But that’s not always the case was responsible with high school baseball. for more than half Although Danish’s video of Durant’s wins game-like numbers draw a lot this season, finof attention, it is his mechanics ishing with a 15-1 and skill set that is piquing the record. interest of pro scouts. In addition to the Reds, As.411 — Season tros and Marlins, Danish met batting average with more than 10 MLB teams 27 — Danish’s before his senior season began. RBIs Most were looking at Danish 9 — Danish’s as a reliever. home runs

SEE MACHINE / PAGE 10

Matt Mauney

113070

Fans got a glimpse of area foot- job on all three phases of the ball teams May 23, in the annual game, and that’s something that Spring Jamboree, at Armwood we worked really hard on this High. spring.” Plant City defeated Durant Although Durant head coach 23-0 in the first half, Mike Gottman was before Armwood disappointed by shutout Strawberry his team’s mistakes, Crest 34-0 in the seche said the Cougars ond. will use the game as Plant City took motivation. advantage of four “We made a lot Durant turnovers, of mistakes, and including three fumthat’s the bottom bles. After Hassan line,” he said. “It’s Bailey scored on a a learning experi15-yard run, Patrick ence for us, and we Colleran recovered a just have to dig in blocked punt and reand just try and get turned it for a touchbetter.” down to put PCHS Strawberry Crest up 13-0. had a rough night After a field goal, Durant’s Chris Shaw turning the ball the Raiders scored over against Armagain on a Sawyer Dawson inter- wood, including four intercepception return for 80 yards. tions thrown by quarterback “Our kids came out and played Tristan Hyde. Two of Hyde’s four hard,” PCHS head coach Wayne interceptions were returned for Ward said. “We did a heck of a touchdowns for Armwood.

Tyler Danish’s 3/4 delivery makes him a unique prospect to pro scouts.

THURSDAY, may 30, 2013

athlete of the week

PlantCityObserver.com

CITY PROPERTIES COMPANY

by Matt Mauney | Associate Editor

EMILY HOBBS Emily Hobbs loves the freedom she feels while swimming. The 8-year-old Walden Lake Elementary School third-grader has been swimming for coach Craig Hilgenberg for half her life — first with the Walden Lake swim team and now with the TYS Stingrays at the Plant City Family YMCA. Hobbs recently shaved 15 seconds off her 100 freestyle time at a recent meet, in Brandon.

What do you like about swimming? Just that I get to be in the water. You can just swim and be free. What stroke do you like the best and why? Butterfly, because I like it when you can move your whole body. What do you like about being a part of this swim team under coach Craig? You get to have fun while you swim, and I get to see my friends here every day. What would be a dream for you when it comes to swimming? Being in the Olympics. Do you play any other sports? I play soccer. What do you like about soccer? I like running a lot. I also like being goalie, because when you get the ball and can save the ball, you know that you’ve got it, and no one else can take it. Outside of sports, what do you like to do for fun? I like to draw a lot.

MACHINE / 10 Halfway through his senior season, he added a third pitch to his repertoire — a changeup. According to Danish, scouts say that all three of his pitches — fastball, slider and changeup — have all developed into plus or plus plus pitches, referring to how effective they are when thrown. His fastball sits comfortably at 92-93 mph and possesses great movement, thanks to his unique 3/4 delivery. His slider was practically un-hittable against high school hitters, and his changeup has developed into an effective third pitch that is lethal when matched with his dominating fastball. With three effective pitches, Danish has heard from scouts that he could be a starting pitcher or reliever in the pros, which was gratifying to hear for the young ace, who came into the season on a mission. “I had a chip on my shoulder to prove

MLB First Year Player Draft WHEN: June 6 to 8 COVERAGE: June 6 coverage will be live on MLB Network and MLB.com. June 7 and 8 will be live on MLB. com. Follow the Plant City Observer on Twitter @PlantCitySports and LIKE us on Facebook for updates on Tyler Danish. DETAILS: Also known as the Rule 4 Draft, the First Year Player Draft is Major League Baseball’s primary source for providing players to MLB teams and Minor League systems. High school players are eligible after graduation, along with all junior or community college players. Players at four-year colleges that have completed their junior year or are 21 years old are also eligible. The draft consists of up to 40 rounds.

What do you like to draw? I just draw things that I’ve either seen that day or make up. Do you like to watch TV or movies, or play video games? I like to watch TV a lot. What’s your favorite TV show? I probably have to say “Jessie.” Do you have a favorite movie? Yes, but it’s rated PG-13. That’s OK. What is it? “The Hunger Games” Do you have plans for the summer? We may go up to Tennessee to see my aunt and uncle. We have three cabins up there. What do you like to do for fun up there? Our cabin is on a big mountain, so we like to go out and slide down the mountain.

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The school year is coming to an end, but what’s your favorite subject? Probably science

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Do you have a reason why? I like learning about animals and things in nature.

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scouts wrong and show that I could be a starter in the minors and MLB,” he said. “My dream was always to be a starting pitcher, but I’m certainly open to other roles. I realize that you can’t be picky or choosy with things like this.” Some scouts believe Danish could be an effective closer, a role that has moved several young MLB pitchers quickly through the minors. “If my role becomes getting three outs every night, I’m fine with that,” Danish said of being a closer. “I just want an opportunity to play.”

Celebration

INKING A DEAL

Before he has an opportunity to start or close out a game in the pros, he has to close on a contract with a major league team. Danish’s draft stock has risen over the last year. He has heard anywhere from the first to seventh round. Many things go into the draft process, but above all is a player’s signability — how likely a MLB franchise will sign a prospect, thus not wasting a draft pick. For Danish, it will come down to money. Through signing bonuses and Minor League contracts, if Danish goes in the early rounds and is signed, he could be well on his way of being a millionaire before he’s 21. “Right now, all sides are looking for the perfect situation,” he said. “Teams are trying to determine my signability, and for me, I’ll have to sit down with my family and talk it over to see what the best decision is.” Coaches at Florida obviously hope Danish will stay committed, which will ensure he plays for the Gators for three seasons before being eligible for the draft again, unless he decides to transfer to a junior college. “I know Florida offers a great education, and they have a great team, so I know if getting signed doesn’t happen, I’ll have a great experience at UF,” he said. “It’s really a win-win situation, all around.” Contact Matt Mauney at mmauney@ plantcityobserver.com.

2013

6 to 9:30 p.m. | Plant City stadium | 1810 e. Park road, Plant City

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For more information, visit 113368

How long have you been swimming? I’ve been with a swim team since I was about 2, and I started swimming with (coach Craig), when I was 4.

MANAGEMENT • SALES • RENTALS

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Plant city observer

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 30, 2013

Show Me the Mauney

Spring season produces memorable moments It’s been a memorable district tournament and a spring season for Plant City’s regional tournament appearhigh school teams. ance as seniors. Of the six local baseball and Both battled injuries this softball teams, five season, but when both advanced to regionals. were on the court for All three softball teams the Raiders, either as won their respective individuals or doubles regional quarterfinal — they were tough to games, and Durant beat. baseball advanced all Spencer will continthe way to the state ue his playing career at championship. Florida Southern, while The Plant City High Harrison is verbally MATT flag football team and committed to Florida MAUNEY boys tennis team had Atlantic University and another successful seais ranked in the top 50 son, and all three schools sent in the state, according to tenathletes to the state tracknisrecruiting.net. and-field championships, with Strawberry Crest leading Baton girls the way with five individual When Strawberry athletes and one relay team. Crest’s Ambria Keys, There were plenty of speYasmine Gardiner, cific moments that stood out Sequoya Williams and Britthis spring, but here’s five of tany Barber got together on the top moments that shaped the track, they were practically this memorable couple of unbeatable. months. The 4x100 team teamed up for the final time this season, Brotherly Love making it all the way to the Harrison and Spencer state championship, after Heysek have played ten- placing first at the Class 3A nis together their whole Region 3 meet. While their lives, but that will change next 11th-place finish in Jacksonfall, as the brothers — two of ville was disappointing, it was a set of triplets — will play at at the region meet where they separate colleges. shined. The foursome placed The Heysek brothers have third in qualifying with a time headlined the PCHS tennis of 49.27 seconds before shavteam throughout their high ing nearly a second off that school careers, including time in the finals to take first. helping to lead the Raiders Barber and Gardiner, both to a runner-up finish in the seniors, also had top-five fin-

Bucking Bartow

When the Class 7A region softball tournament brackets were released, many wrote-off Plant City High’s chances before the Lady Raiders even took the field. PCHS was matched up with Bartow, a perennial power that finished as state runnerup in 2012. But someone forgot to tell PCHS that they were supposed to lose the game. The Lady Raiders came to play April 24, in the region quarterfinals. They were fueled by the doubts and the fact that they were able to host Bartow, after the FHSAA penalized the program from hosting a playoff game after a violation in 2012. PCHS jumped out to an early 2-0 lead before Bartow battled back to tie the game in the sixth. But the Lady Raiders didn’t relent, putting three runs on the board in the seventh before closing the door on Bartow with a 1-2-3 inning. Sophomore Noelle Dietrich

had a stellar game, pitching a complete game and only allowing two runs, while bringing in the winning run in the seventh on a sac fly. The run for PCHS would come to an end the next game in the region semifinals with a 8-0 loss to Lake Region, but the Lady Raiders certainly left their mark this year, proving that any team can win on any given night.

Over the Hump

The Strawberry Crest softball team entered the season on a mission. The Lady Chargers had their season come to an abrupt end in the district tournament in 2012 with an upset loss to Leto. When they found themselves in a similar situation this year, with a district semifinal meeting with Leto, they were determined not to suffer the same fate. SCHS got over the hump by beating Leto and went on to defeat Sickles for the program’s first district tournament championship. The Lady Chargers defeated Palmetto 5-0 in the region quarterfinals before having their season come to an end with a 5-1 loss to Lakewood Ranch, in the region semifinals. They ended the year with just three losses. With a talented class of rising seniors, SCHS will enter the 2014 season as heavy

favorites to repeat as district champs and be strong contenders for a state championship run.

Making History

Few can argue with this one. What the Durant Cougars baseball team was able to accomplish this season was so impressive, they could have their own top 10 list. This year’s team showed what hard work and dedication can get. Durant won the program’s first region championship and not only advanced to the state final four for the first time, but also went all the way to the state championship. A loss to Lake Brantley in the title game certainly was disappointing for the Cougars, but it doesn’t take anything away from the season they had. Ace Tyler Danish finishing his senior season with an astonishing 0.00 ERA highlights the year, but there are plenty of other non-Danish moments that will be remembered with this season. Losing Danish and three other seniors, including No. 2 pitcher Chaz Fowler, will be tough to overcome, but the Cougars have a strong junior class that will return for their senior seasons. After getting a taste of big things this year, who knows what may happen next spring.

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ishes at regionals as individuals in the 100m dash. Gardiner placed second in the 200m dash. Rising seniors Keys and Williams will be the anchors of the 4x100 Strawberry Crest team next season, but the team will certainly miss having all four standouts on one relay team.

Plant city observer

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, may 30, 2013

Plant City

RAIN

(inches)

I PC

Weather

WED.

May 22

0.82

THURS.

TemperatureS

0.00

Thurs., May 30 Fri., May 31 Sat., June 1 Sun., June 2 Mon., June 3 Tues., June 4 Wed., June 5

FRI.

May 24

0.00

SAT.

May 25

0.00

SUN.

May 26

High Low 90 72 90 72 91 73 91 72 93 73 91 73 93 75

sunrise/sunset times

0.00

MOON

Sunrise Sunset Thurs., May 30 6:33 a.m. 8:19 p.m. Fri., May 31 6:33 a.m. 8:20 p.m. Sat., June 1 6:32 a.m. 8:20 p.m. Sun., June 2 6:32 a.m. 8:21 p.m. Mon., June 3 6:32 a.m. 8:21 p.m. Tues., June 4 6:32 a.m. 8:22 p.m. Wed., June 5 6:32 a.m. 8:22 p.m.

MON.

May 27

0.00

TUES.

May 28

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MAY

TO DATE

PHASES

Community starts with neighbors who care.

June 16

June 23

GRAPE TOMATO PRICES

2.25 (2012: .82)

SHIPPING POINT: CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA HIGH $22.95 $11.95

June 29

Courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture

Tony Lee CLU, Agent 1702 S Alexander Street Plant City, FL 33563 Bus: 813-752-7202 www.tonyleeagent.com

State Farm® has a long heritage of helping out in the community. That’s why I’m proud to support Event/Charity. Get to a better State .

TO DATE 8.72 (2012: 3.16)

LOW $20.95 $10.95

June 8

PACKAGES 20-pound cartons loose 12 1-pint containers

YEAR

Zhang, a Cleveland Bay-and-Thoroughbredcross filly, arrived May 23, at Black Dog Farm, in Plant City. Kristen Bateman snapped this photo shortly after she stood for the first time. Zhang and her mother, Maven, are doing fine. The Plant City Observer, State Farm agent Tony Lee and The Corner Store have partnered to host the I Love Plant City Photo Contest. Winners will have their photo featured and receive a $10 gift certificate to The Corner Store! Submit your photos, with a caption, to Managing Editor That’s what our Michael Eng,town meng@ is made of. plantcityobserver.com.

PL E

May 23

Need someone that speaks fluent insurance? I’m your agent for that. 1702 S Alexander Street Plant City, FL 33563

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

Edited by Timothy E. Parker

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1 Assembly-ready, as a home 7 In a bad way 10 TV remote abbr. 13 Shade of blue 19 Kansas city 20 In a hand-tomouth way 22 In one’s house 23 Revered beetle 24 Widely varied 25 Inexpensive cigar 26 Backpacker’s suite 27 Some evergreens 29 Hershey product (with 109-Across) 31 Pharmaceutical unit 32 Vast number 34 “___ Flux” (Charlize Theron film) 35 Prairie homes with flaps (var.) 37 Cincinnati trio? 40 Riverbed scavenger 42 Slice, as a turkey 43 Word of cheer 44 Right-leaning? 45 Mani-pedi place 47 Airborne fisheaters 50 Grassy turf (var.) 52 Ready for the body shop 54 Margarine, vis-avis butter 56 Director’s shot 57 Animals with antlers 59 Order with eggs 60 Support for a golfer 61 Ferry operator 64 Winner of the “Thrilla in Manila” 65 Carbon-13 or cobalt-60 67 Fans of this puzzle’s theme

71 View from another 3 Vigor 4 Scottish inlet angle 5 Santa ___ Winds 74 Drink that may be made from ginger 6Candy bar with a baseball legend’s 75 Set free name 78 Corn portion 7 Suffuse, as a spirit 79 “I Spy” nickname 8 Honolulu 80 Deadens keepsakes 83 Carry on verbally 9 Potok’s “My Name Is Asher ___” 85 Pats down 10 Migratory 87 Ship area, to a songbird bo’s’n 11 “Superman” 88 One with character Jimmy exemplary skill 12 Old soap 90 The ___ Ranger ingredients 91 Drive up the wall 13 Quarterback, at 92 Kitty delighter times 95 Ground-bound 14 1951 Baseball Hall of Fame inductee bird Mel 96 Cay 15 Tall tales 99 Defendants’ 16 Motherless range protests animal 100 Color for fabric 17 “J’Accuse” writer 101 Geometric figure Zola with a repeating 18 Dances in Virginia? pattern 21 Baseball’s Jeter 28 Classic literary 104 Cowboy boot work attachment 30 Approx. landing 106 Flood controls hour 108 Place for tumblers 33 Remember to 109 See 29-Across forget 111 Legendary 34 Flew like an arrow soprano Pons 36 Eternally, to a poet 112 Head woe 37 Beginning for 116 Down-and-___ “while” 38 Viceroy under a (destitute people) mogul 118 Pacific salmon 39 Plumed military 120 Caterwauled cap 122 Greek malls of old 41 Detail handler, 123 Mass maybe communications? 42 Villain 124 Shining brilliantly 45 Upright stone slab 125 Past and imperfect 46 Threat of harm 126 Hankering 48 U.S. alliance 49 “Watch your ___!” 127 Service to be 51 Boxer’s datum repeated 53 Organizes, 128 He’ll agree to perhaps anything 54 Art student’s prop 55 Pizza center? dOwn 57 Pool hall triangles 1 Covert sound 58 Lennon’s wife 2 100-yard dash, e.g. 59 Homes with

combs 62 Most heavyset 63 Pre-stereo recordings 66 Faberge egg recipients 68 Auto repair cost 69 Smart guy? 70 Christmas ornament or planet, e.g. 71 Ump’s gridiron counterpart 72 “Duke of ___” (1962 hit) 73 Quartet with a defection? 76 Completely filled 77 Adversary in war 81 Worrier’s ailment, so they say 82 Bad-tempered 84 ___ to one’s word 86 Mars bar 87 Trim 88 Earth locale 89 Nave sight 93 Least cluttered 94 Something an office worker might file 97 Memory gaps, e.g. 98 Certain Ivy Leaguer 99 Somewhat dark 101 Parade vehicle 102 Cheek makeup 103 Follow, as advice 104 Composer’s creation 105 Pie flavor 107 Marina sights 110 Get a glimpse of 111 Instrument similar to a harp 113 ___ chowder 114 Queen of Mount Olympus 115 Where Adam and Eve dwelt 117 “Norma___” 119 Slippery creature 121 Years since birth

CROSSWORD_053013

Thursday, May 30, 2013

Items Under $200 For Sale

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ADVERTISE YOUR MERCHANDISE with the total value of all items $200 or less in this section for FREE! Limit 1 ad per month, 15 words or less. Price must be included next to each item. No commercial advertising or garage sale advertising Ad runs 2 consecutive weeks. Call Toll Free: 1-877-308-5642 Email ad to: classified@yourobserver.com (Please include your name and address) Or mail to: The Observer Group P.O. Box 3169 Sarasota, Fl 34230

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This week’s Cryptogram answers 1. The veteran stone carver wanted his son to follow in his footsteps. The son disliked the idea. He did not want to be a chip off the old block. 2. The new math teacher said he would extend the class curriculum to include extradition.

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Plant city observer

THURSDAY, may 30, 2013

111215