Plant City Times &
Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
A PARTNERSHIP WITH
REAL ESTATE
THEATER
SPORTS
PAGES 8-10
PAGE 3
PAGE 11
Custom-built home tops monthly sales.
OUR TOWN + Times & Observer to change pub date Beginning next week, the Plant City Times & Observer will be delivered weekly on Fridays, instead of Thursdays. As always, the newspaper will be packed with hyperlocal content relevant to residents and businesses of Greater Plant City. If you have any questions, please contact Editor Michael Eng, meng@ plantcityobserver.com or (813) 704-6850.
FREE • THURSDAY, JULY 17, 2014
Dazzling duo Plant City coach set to star in opens competitive ‘Legally Blonde.’ cheer gymnasium.
governance by Michael Eng | Editor
Search for city manager yields candidates, mixed reactions City commissioners directed the search firm to keep the application process open as they prepare to interview finalists by phone or Skype. Earlier this week, Plant City commissioners received a 450page binder stuffed with portfolios from 76 candidates from throughout the country for the vacant city manager position. But, with differing opinions
on the results, ultimately, commissioners opted to keep the application process open as they search for Plant City’s next leader. Mercer Group Senior Vice President W.D. Higginbotham
Jr. was set to present the candidates — and his nine selected finalists — to the commissioners during a special workshop July 14. But, even before Higginbotham took the podium, City Commissioner Mike Sparkman
WEDDING BELLS by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor
made his opinion of the results clear. “I was completely disgusted,” he said. “I think this is trash; it’s junk. This is a waste of my time. This meeting tonight is a waste of my time. ... We need to
go forth and look at the rest of them. We have accomplished nothing — absolutely, positively nothing.” Higginbotham told commissioners candidates came from a nationwide search that included organizations such as the International City/County
SEE SEARCH / PAGE 5
WORST TO FIRST by Michael Eng | Editor
Bailey Elementary posts Hillsborough’s best FCAT gains
+ P.C. traveler treks across U.S.
The Dover school earned an A grade in 2014 — up three letter grades from the D it received just one year ago.
Plant City native and novelist Morgan Davis has been traveling the East Coast of the United States, with plans to head west. To help him continue his trek he has started “Bartering with Books.” Davis is the author of a trilogy series, “Prescribed Life,” he wrote while working at the skate park in Plant City. He’s been trading copies of his book to people willing to send supplies to him as he’s traveling. If you’d like a copy of Davis’ book in exchange for a bit of good will, visit prescribedlife.com.
The week Principal Russell Wallace took the helm at Bailey Elementary School one year ago, the state released the school Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test letter grades for the 2012-13 school year. That year, Bailey received a D. And Wallace knew it should have been an F, except the state instituted a safety net that prevented any school from dropping more than one letter grade. Wallace took the evaluation
BY THE NUMBERS
For a chart analyzing all Plant City schools’ results, see page 4.
and challenged his faculty and students to do the unthinkable — from worst to first — in just one year. “I was a stranger on campus,” Wallace said. “I’m sure they
SEE FCAT / PAGE 4
high note by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor
Plant City High, Marshall welcome music directors + Deputy chief to retire from PCFR Plant City Fire Rescue announced recently the retirement of Dep. Chief Eugene Shuler, who is retiring after 14 years of service to the department and community. His retirement begins Aug. 1. The department will host an informal gettogether from 2 to 3 p.m. Thursday, July 31, at Fire Station No. 1, 604 E. Alexander St.
, 3&
This week’s winner is
Denise Williamson See her photo on PAGE 15.
Photo by Stephanie Humphrey | Stephanie Humphrey Photography
“MasterChef” winner Whitney Miller and Plant City native Ryan Humphrey are planning a March 2015 wedding.
Love at First Bite Hometown boy Ryan Humphrey popped the question to the season 1 winner of ‘MasterChef,’ Whitney Miller, July 4.
R
yan Humphrey just expected to get a good meal at this year’s United Food Bank of Plant City fundraiser dinner. But what the 26-year-old got was a little more life-changing than a satisfied appetite. The February banquet was hosted by “MasterChef” celebrity Whitney Miller for a second-consecutive year. The talented culinary artist won the first season of the popular cooking show in 2010. The now 27-year-old hosted a demon-
Jay DeDon and Nathan Drawdy both are excited to return to the community.
will take over as Plant City High School’s choir director. Both are graduates of Stetson University and excited to lead their respective programs.
Although summer usually is a time for rest and relaxation for students and teachers, the new school year already has begun for Plant City’s newest music directors. Jay DeDon will take over as Marshall Middle School’s band director, and Nathan Drawdy
Jay DeDon wanted to play the clarinet at first — just like his older sister, Sophia. But, when he tested it out in front of his middle school band teacher, he couldn’t play it. Plan B was the saxophone.
JAY DEDON
SEE MUSIC / PAGE 4
stration and helped plan the meal for the evening at the fundraiser. When Ryan’s mother, Stephanie, showed him Miller’s picture before the event, she caught his eye. It became a running joke between Stephanie and event organizer Brian West. But, they soon hatched a plan to introduce the chiropractor to the chef. Stephanie bought her son a ticket to
SEE LOVE / PAGE 4 Jay DeDon’s passion is working with children.
INDEX Calendar.......................2
Courtesy photo
Vol. 1, No. 50 | One section Crossword...................15
Obituaries...................10
Real Estate ...................8
Sports.........................11
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COMMUNITYCALENDAR THURSDAY, JULY 17 Arts and Crafts — takes place from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Thursday, July 17, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St., Plant City. (813) 752-8700. Business After Hours sponsored by Matrix Medical and Dr. Max Rattes — takes place from 5:15 to 7 p.m. Thursday, July 17, at 310 W. Alexander St. RSVP by calling (813) 754-3707. Fire Safety for Kids — takes place from 12:30 to 1 p.m. Thursday, July 17, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St., Plant City. (813) 752-8700. Tanagrams — class takes place from 3 to 4 p.m. Thursday, July 17, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. For more information, call (813) 757-9215.
FRIDAY, JULY 18 Black Wax — performance takes place from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday, July 18, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818. Plant City Entertainment presents “Legally Blonde” — takes place at 8 p.m. Friday, July 18,
and Saturday, July 19; and at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 20, at the theater, 101 N. Thomas St. For more, visit pceshows.com. Story Time — takes place from 11 a.m. to noon, Friday, July 18, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St., Plant City. For more information, call (813) 752-8700. Summer Teen Movie — takes place at 3:30 p.m. Friday, July 18, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. For more information, call For more information, call (813) 757-9215. Uncork Your Weekend with Skip Frye — live music from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, July 18, at Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. For more information, call (813) 752-9100.
SATURDAY, JULY 19 Celebrating Our Country Crafts — takes place from 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, July 19, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St., Plant City. (813) 752-8700. Live Entertainment — performance takes place from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday, July 19, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander
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: meng@plantcityobserver.com. Photos are welcome. Deadline is noon Thursday.
St. (813) 764-8818.
Summer Movie for Kids — takes place at 3 p.m. Tuesday, July 22, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. (813) 757-9215.
Parkway Baptist Church VBS — Kickoff takes place at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 19, at the church, 4305 James L. Redman Parkway. “Agency D3” will take place from 9 a.m. to noon July 21 to 25. Register online at parkwaybaptist.org. Story Time — takes place from 11 a.m. to noon, Saturday, July 19, at the Children’s Board Family Resource Centers in East County, 639 E. Alexander St., Plant City. For more information, call (813) 752-8700. Strawberry Classic Car Show — takes place from 4 to 9 p.m. Saturday, July 19, at 102 N. Palmer St. For more, visit plantcity.org. Uncork Your Weekend with Project Voyager — live music from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, July 19, at Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. For more information, call (813) 752-9100.
MONDAY, JULY 21 Mad Science: The Science of Magic — takes place from 3 to 4 p.m. Monday, July 21, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. Magic secrets will be revealed as the students understand the pivotal role science plays in the world of magic. Discover how
WEDNESDAY, JULY 23 OneBlood Blood Drive — takes place from 10:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 23, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. All donors receive a free wellness screening, as well as incentives such as free T-shirts, movie tickets, and Outback Steakhouse coupons. (813) 757-9215.
BEST BET 12th Annual Elvis Tampa Bay Festival — takes place from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, July 19, at the Strawberry Festival Expo Hall, 303 E. Lemon St. Show will feature memorabilia, Elvis performances, shows and contests. This event also benefits the Childrens Home of Tampa Bay. (813) 977-6011 or elvistampatcb.com. magicians use science to create illusions and slight-of-hand to misdirect their audiences. (813) 757-9215. Manage Your Diabetes — takes place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Monday, July 21, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. Glenda Williams. (813) 307-8015, Ext. 7111.
TUESDAY, JULY 22 Classical Conversations — takes place from 6:30 to 8:30
p.m. Tuesday, July 22, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. Information meeting to discuss a home schooling method called Classical Conversations. Debbie Anne Gibbs, (813) 767-6695. Ribbon Cutting: Karen Stanley for Circuit Court Judge, Group 20 — takes place from 11 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 22, at the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, 106 N. Evers St., Plant City. For more, visit plantcity.org.
Open Mike Night — begins at 8 p.m. Wednesdays, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818. Plant City Fit Club — meets at 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, at 301 N. Dort St., Plant City. Melissa, (813) 395-3953. Plant City Get Fresh Market — takes place from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays, at the Train Depot. Local produce, crafts and food.
THURSDAY, JULY 24 Humpty Dumpty’s Dilemma Puppet Show — takes place at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 24, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. (813) 757-9215.
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NEWS BRIEFS
bend and snap by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor
+ Arrest made in Plant City shooting
MEET THE CAST
Acting leads Pamela and Benedict Heaps warm up for the show in front of Plant City’s own courthouse.
ORDER IN THE COURT Husband-and-wife duo Pamela and Benedict Heaps will take the stage as Elle Woods and Emmett Forrest, respectively, in Plant City Entertainment’s “Legally Blonde: The Musical.” The star of Plant City Entertainment’s newest production, “Legally Blonde: The Musical,” doesn’t have the lead’s iconic blond locks. A natural brunette, Pamela Heaps will be flaunting a perfectly styled wig for her role as Elle ‘LEGALLY BLONDE: Woods. But her hair color THE MUSICAL’ doesn’t mean WHEN: 7 p.m. Friday, July she isn’t the 18, and Saturday, July 19; real deal. 2 p.m. Sunday, July 20 Outgoing WHERE: Plant City and giddy, Entertainment Theater, the actress’s 101 N. Thomas St. bright smile is contagious. TICKETS: At the door Just like her $10 for members; $12 c h a r a c t e r’s. for seniors, non-members And her onand students; $14 general stage roadmission. Advanced tickmance is an ets at Hardee’s Fashions, off-stage one, 1501 N. Wheeler St. too. Her husINFORMATION: pceshows. band, Benecom or (813) 752-0728 dict Heaps, will be playing Emmett Forrest, Elle’s love interest in the musical. “You don’t have to work for chemistry,” Benedict says. “You don’t have to practice the kissing scene.” “It’s not awkward,” Pamela adds.
From her fingertips to her sequinscaled shoes, Pamela is dressed in pink. She’s wanted to play the role of Elle ever since the musical version of the popular 2001 movie came out. She was a freshman in high school. Oddly enough, her dad loved the movie even more. “This is for Dad,” Pamela says. Benedict, too, remembers when the movie first was released but can’t say he was as excited about it as his wife. “I wasn’t quite as obsessed, but guys will like it, too,” Benedict says. The comedy follows sorority glamour girl, Elle, as she miraculously gets into Harvard to get the love of her life back. But when the school year progresses, she discovers he’s not the knight in shining armor she thought he was and instead follows her new passion — to become a lawyer. She makes new friends along the way, including Elle’s rough around the edges beautician, Paulette, and Emmett, an accomplished partner at a law firm. “It’s basically right from the movie,” Pamela says. “There are some lines in there that are straight from the movie script.” And although they’re no strang-
Amber Jurgensen
ers to the storyline, this is the first time the couple has participated in a Plant City Entertainment show. They knew Nick Folkes, the musical director for “Legally Blonde,” from working with the Lakeland Community Theatre. They decided to audition. “It’s a lot more intimate,” Benedict says about Plant City Entertainment. “Everyone’s been really helpful and really nice.” Both always have loved theater. They attended Rochelle School of the Arts in Lakeland around the same time, studying orchestra and dabbling in the violin, piano and cello. Pamela tried her hand in art for a second before moving on to theater. They met during Lakeland Community Theatre’s “Bugsy Malone.” “We’ve always been around each other but never knew each other,” Pamela says. The two started dating and married almost two years ago. Through it all, they have maintained their love of theater. Pamela can’t remember the last time she’s had a break from performing. The two can name off play after play — “Silvia,” “South Pacific” and, now, “Legally Blonde.” “We just like to do community theater,” Pamela says. “You meet so many people and make friends.” Pamela has made one new friend she thought she never would. Her character’s sidekick is a chihuahua named Bruiser. The pup’s real name is Benedict Cumberpooch. She’s worked with one other animal wing man before when she played Dorothy. The dog playing Toto was a rescue from, ironically, a tornado stricken town. “It’s fun,” Pamela says. “Luckily I’ve done it before. Bruiser’s way easier. He just stays in the little pink bag I have.” Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com.
Elle Woods: Pamela Heaps Paulette Bonafonte: Wendy Davidson Brooke Wyndham: Emilie Plants Pilar: Brianna Manley Serena: Brynne Piesco Margot: Victoria Tuzzolino Enid Hoops: Krystal Scott Vivian Kensington: Danielle Goyco Kate: Olivia Mitchell Chutney Wyndham: Fralia Rosario Delta Nu Sisters: Chelsea Scourtes, Alixandra Papiet, Billie Martin, Laura Kasch Mrs. Woods: Kelley Gustafson Whitney: Fralia Rosario Sundeep Padaman: Oliver Sprague Aaron Schultz: Logan Simmons Mr. Woods: John Harrer Rapper Grand Master Chad: Oliver Sprague Winthrop: Maurice Cecchini Lowell: Jim Fortinberry Pforzheimer: Vince Evangelista KiKi: Billie Martin Carlos: Vince Evangelista Nikos: Oliver Sprague Judge: Maurice Cecchini District Attorney Joyce Reid: Dana Fortinberry Court Stenographer: Chelsea Scourtes Reporter: Katie Rains Prison Guard: Vince Evangelista Ensemble: Mark Henderson, Logan Boyette, Lionel Wood, David Harnage Store Clerk: Billie Martin Store Manager: Katie Rains Emmett Forrest: Benedict Heaps Warner Huntington III: Jonathan Hogsett Professor Callahan: Tyler Hollis Dewey: Terry Abbott Kyle: Nick Lafauce Bruiser: Benedict Cumberpooch Rufus: Manny Nicely
PRODUCTION Director: Jennifer Fenner Assistant Director: Shirley Outen Musical Director: Nick Folkes Choreographer: Lois Green Costume Director: Debbie Scourtes Master Set Builder: Tom Mitchell Master Artists: Carolyn Woodard, Jean Adams, Paul Hetrick and Kristen Permenter Lights and Sound Director: Jeff Moranville
INKED by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor
Tattoo shop owner sues city to open downtown David Hudder has renovated a building off Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to be a shop and his home. But, a city ordinance bans tattoo shops from the downtown and Midtown districts. David Hudder works on a tattoo for a retired Hillsborough County Fire Rescue firefighter, sketching it with skill under the blue-white LED light of his lamp. Tattoos are what he loves to do. But he’s being stopped from opening a new shop off Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. A city ordinance bans tattoo shops from opening in the downtown and midtown districts. But Hudder’s not letting that get in his way. He’s suing the city. “We’re waiting for a court date,” Hudder said. Hudder contends the ordinance is infringing upon freedom of expression. His supporters, like gubernatorial candidate Adrian Wyllie, agree. “It’s a case of government going too far, as far as I’m con-
Amber Jurgensen
David Hudder works on a tattoo for a retired Hillsborough County Fire Rescue firefighter. cerned,” Wyllie said. “They say it’s for the public good, but the public good would be serve by having a vibrant downtown with a viable business.” Hudder’s current shop, Di-
xie Station Tattoo, is located off East Baker Street. He renovated the building and fixed up the front yard. Although it’s mere blocks from Historic Downtown, he
wants his business to be at his new building near the Midtown redevelopment area. Hudder renovated the brick building and plans to live upstairs. “This is where I want to be,” Hudder told the Plant City Times & Observer in February. “I live here. I love this city. I have my business and want to put down my roots.” Plant City historically has had a ban on tattoo shops within city limits. But in 2012, the City Commission voted to change the ordinance, allowing tattoo shops within limits but not in the developing downtown and Midtown areas. The change came because the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in 2010 held that the business of tattooing is protected by the First Amendment. The Plant City Planning
Board recommended that tattoo establishments be permitted in downtown and Midtown, but the staff did not agree with the position. Instead, it recommended that tattoo parlors be banned from the two areas, because “both these areas are being planned for future mixed-use environments encompassing both residential and non-residential development. In many incidences, residential and non-residential uses may be located in close proximity, possibly in the same building, which would offer little opportunity to buffer or screen the impacts of tattoo and body-piercing salons from adjacent residential uses, thereby creating potential compatibility issues,” according to a March 2012 agenda report. Still, supporters stand by Hudder, declaring him a true artist. His client list is filled with people from around the Tampa Bay area including Randy White, pastor of a 15,000-mem-
The suspect in a July 11 shooting at a home in Plant City was arrested July 12, according to a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrest report. A caller to 911 reported just after 9 a.m. Friday that a man had been shot at 3421 Sam Astin Road, authorities said. Officials named Ricardo Ocegueda Jr., 25, as the suspect. He was arrested July 12, in Plant City, and booked into the Hillsborough County jail. The shooting was domesticrelated and not random, authorities said. The victim was in serious condition Friday, the Sheriff’s Office said. Ocegueda is charged with attempted murder, aggravated assault and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
+ Smoke alarm saves P.C. family A Plant City family escaped safely from an overnight house fire, thanks to a smoke alarm. According to Hillsborough County Fire Rescue reports, crews responded to a report of a structure fire at about 1:26 a.m. July 10, at 2628 Wallace Branch Road. Upon arrival, crews found heavy smoke and flames coming from the structure. The crews were able to contain the fire and extinguish it. Investigators determined the fire appears to be accidental in nature; the home is a total loss. The American Red Cross was initiated to help with the family’s displacement.
+ Drug investigation yields one arrest Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Division detectives conducted July 10, a buy/bust operation for trafficking MDMA. The operation ended in the arrest of Denard Walker, 36, of Lakeland, at 4802 Sterling Commerce Drive, near County Line Road, in Plant City. It concluded a three-month investigation on Walker. He was charged with trafficking in a controlled substance, child neglect, delivery of a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a convenience store, and possession of a controlled substance. The child neglect charge came from him bringing a 12-year-old girl to one of the transactions. Walker is a six-time-convicted felon. He served prison sentences for delivery/manufacture in cocaine and possession of methamphetamine. His arrest history also includes firearm possession and resisting law enforcement, according to Sheriff’s Office reports.
YOUR TURN The Plant City Times & Observer invites our readers to contribute to this discussion. Should tattoo parlors be banned from Historic Downtown and Midtown? Send your thoughts to Associate Editor Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@ plantcityobserver.com. ber church in Tampa, Without Walls International. “He does fantastic work, first off,” White said. “Second, he has an impeccable character.” White has had work done by Hudder for eight years. All his tattoos have special meanings to him. A portrait of his daughter is on his back. She died from brain cancer but was able to see if before she died. “It is something that makes you an individual,” White said. “People should be happy he renovated the building and is bringing business to the area. Don’t stereotype the guy. I look at it as an art shop — an art gallery.”
ª 3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP FCAT / PAGE 1 thought, ‘This guy is nuts.’” Maybe. But, it doesn’t hurt to dream big. Bailey Elementary outshined all other schools in Hillsborough County to post the largest year-over-year gains — from a D in 2013 to an A in 2014. As a result, Superintendent MaryEllen Elia will host her annual back-to-school news conference Aug. 15, from the Dover school. “It’s a great thing for Bailey,” Wallace said. “There’s a lot of pride. A lot of people don’t have a chance to come to our campus, so the public forms its opinion on a school from these grades. “We knew we needed to get student achievement moving in the right direction,” he said. “When I got here, I told everyone, ‘We’re going to be an A.’ We had to start with that vision, and if we wanted to be an A school, we had to act like an A school. We had to believe we were an A school.” Even as Florida schools began their transition to the new Common Core-based standards in the 2013-14 school year, other Plant City-area el-
LOVE / PAGE 1 the dinner. He arrived late, and, after sneaking to a seat at the back table, Doug “Gibber” Gibbs talked him into getting a cookbook signed at the end of the event. He told Ryan to tell her to sign it to her future husband. After the meal was devoured, Ryan made his way to the signing table — but not before the Florida Strawberry Festival General Manager Paul Davis asked him to escort the Florida Strawberry Festival court members to their cars. Being the gentleman he is, Ryan walked the berry beautiful princesses to the parking lot. And he made it back just in time to get Whitney’s autograph. She hadn’t been feeling well and wanted to pack up to go. West convinced her to meet just one more fan. At first I was like, ‘No, no,’” Whitney says. “When he walked up, I said, ‘OK, never mind.’” The two talked until the place cleared out. Ryan was too nervous to ask for her phone number. “I didn’t want to be that guy,” Ryan says. But, that didn’t mean the interest wasn’t there. Ryan found her on Facebook. That’s when they started to talk. Two weeks later, after the Mississippi native came to Florida to visit, the two real-
ementary and middle schools also showed gains. In addition to Bailey, six other Plant City elementary and middle schools are expected to receive A grades this year. By comparison, only one — Knights Elementary — received an A last year. Letter grades for high schools are expected to be released in the fall. Other Plant City schools that posted gains include Nelson Elementary (C to A), Robinson Elementary (C to A), Shiloh Middle Charter (C to A), Lincoln Elementary Magnet (B to A), Walden Lake Elementary (B to A), Advantage Academy of Hillsborough (D to C), Bryan Elementary (D to C) and Dover Elementary (D to C). “We know that our students and teachers have been working hard this year, and it’s great to finish the school year and get these kinds of results,’’ Elia said. “During this transitional time, it’s gratifying to see our students performing at such high levels. Our students, teachers, principals — and parents — should be very proud.” Some Plant City schools posted lower grades, including Cork Elementary (B to C), Jackson Elementary (C to D), ized they had much in common. “He was handsome,” Whitney says. “He likes to hunt. That’s something I’m familiar with, because my dad does it. He’s down to earth.” Ryan has nothing but praises for her, too. “She’s basically all the qualities I’ve looked for,” Ryan says. “She’s a very wholesome, Christian girl. I couldn’t find any flaws.” The cooking was a plus. “She can cook, so she’s already halfway to my heart,” Ryan says. Ryan decided to make her his whole heart when he started looking for rings three months later. On a vacation to New Orleans, the couple visited a vintage ring shop, so he could stealthily figure out Whitney’s ring size and what style she liked. With the help of Whitney’s father and her brother-in-law, Ryan planned an all-American proposal for the Fourth of July. Every year, Whitney’s family explodes fireworks over their property’s pond. They made a 20-foot-long sign with lighted rope letters, spelling out “Will you marry me?” “When people used to say ‘When you know, you know,’ I used to always laugh about that,” Ryan says. “It seemed kind of corny. But it is true — you really just know. “Everything seemed to
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PLANT CITY 2014 FCAT ANALYSIS SCALE
BENEFIT FROM ONE LETTER GRADE DROP PROTECTION
PRELIMINARY GRADE 2014
GRADE 2013
462 537 461 489 491 443 424 544 602 527 529 474 498 463 544 461
800 800 800 800 800 800 800 800 800 800 800 800 800 800 800 800
N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
C A C C C C D A A A A C B C A C
D D D C B D C A B C C C B C B B
C C D B A C B B A B C B A C A A
D B C A B C C A B A B C B C A A
C B A B A B A B A A B A B C A A
75% 76% 94% 94% 74% 97% 93% 85% 64% 58% 89% 31% 85% 92% 51% 89%
65% 54% 89% 87% 46% 94% 78% 55% 81% 55% 69% 19% 62% 81% 43% 66%
NO YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES NO YES NO YES YES NO YES
490 540 680 551 516
900 900 900 900 900
YES N/A N/A N/A N/A
C C A C C
B C C B C
A C B B C
A C A A B
D A A A B
70% 83% 41% 69% 80%
55% 60% 17% 57% 59%
NO YES NO YES YES
Pending Pending Pending Pending Pending Pending
Pending Pending Pending
Pending Pending Pending
A A A
A A A
A A B
B B C
61% 46% 50%
53% 41% 50%
NO NO NO
TOTAL PTS. 2014
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS Advantage Academy of Hillsborough Bailey Elementary Bryan Elementary School Burney Elementary School Cork Elementary School Dover Elementary School Jackson Elementary School Knights Elementary School Lincoln Elementary Magnet School Nelson Elementary School Robinson Elementary School Shiloh Elementary Charter School Springhead Elementary School Trapnell Elementary School Walden Lake Elementary School Wilson Elementary School MIDDLE SCHOOLS Advantage Academy Middle School Marshall Middle School Shiloh Middle Charter School Tomlin Middle School Turkey Creek Middle School
SCHOOL NAME
HIGH SCHOOLS Durant High School Plant City High School Strawberry Crest High School
Wilson Elementary (B to C), Advantage Academy Middle (B to C) and Tomlin Middle (B to C). No Plant City-area school posted an F grade. come together,” he says. “It fit perfectly in God’s plan.” After four rounds of glittering sparks went off, Ryan got down on one knee in front of their family and friends to propose. He was so nervous, he forgot what he had planned to say. “Thankfully, you had the sign,” Whitney says. “I asked, ‘You going to put it on my finger?’” Whitney had also forgotten something — to say, “Yes.” “I had been waiting for it,” Whitney says. “The week before, I had been asking, and he told me, ‘Later down the road.’ Then, when he did it, I was shocked.” The couple is planning a March wedding. But Whitney isn’t doing any serious planning until her second cookbook deadline is met in October. She plans to move to the area after the wedding and is working to make contacts in the Tampa Bay and Central Florida areas to continue touring, doing demonstrations and book signings. When she moves, there is one stipulation. “She told me I could get her a Cracker Jack ring, but I had to get her a home with a good kitchen,” Ryan says. “But I don’t mind a good ring, either,” Whitney says. Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.
County-wide, 63 elementary schools earned A grades, compared to 40 the previous year. Twenty middle schools earned A grades, compared to
GRADE GRADE 2012 2011
14 the previous year. This was the last school year Florida students will take the FCAT. Next year, students will take an entirely different test,
FREE OR GRADE REDUCED MINORITY 2010 LUNCH RATE
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the Florida State Assessment, based on the new Florida Standards. Contact Michael Eng at meng@plantcityobserver.com.
MUSIC / PAGE 1 It was what all the “cool kids” played. He couldn’t play that either. Then, his teacher suggested the trumpet. “I’m sure she just said I could play the trumpet to be nice,” DeDon said. For DeDon, athletics and academics came easy. But, music was a different story. He welcomed the challenge. “That’s why I fell in love with it,” DeDon said. “Because I had to really work at it.” DeDon was involved in music throughout his time at Plant City High School but didn’t plan to study at Stetson University. He was set to go to Louisiana State University — his father’s alma mater — on a full scholarship. But, his choir teacher saw something else for him. She encouraged him to go to Choir Fest at Stetson University. “I fell in love, because they really seemed to care about you there,” DeDon said. Before he knew it, he auditioned, was accepted and began studying music education. He worked extensively with underprivileged kids, hosting camps and going to different schools to offer private lessons and help run classes. He was deeply involved with the Middle School Honors Chamber Winds Fest, to which 90 kids come to learn music and perform a concert.
Amber Jurgensen
Nathan Drawdy previously taught at Barrington Middle School in FishHawk. “These honor festivals convince kids that they love music,” DeDon said. “Because in school, being a music nerd is uncool. But when you’re around 90 other people that think it’s cool, it’s encouraging.” DeDon has big plans for Marshall Middle School. He believes band can change the lives of students who have nothing else. “Making the band program a big part of the school will change the culture of the school,” DeDon said. “They’ll want to come to school, they’ll want to stay after for band. They’ll be proud to be a Dragon.” As part of his program, DeDon wants to have a beforeschool Men’s Choir, a parade band to perform at pep rallies and parades, and an afterschool brass choir. He also wants to bring a summer band camp to the table, using Plant City High School students as mentors.
NATHAN DRAWDY
For Nathan Drawdy, music runs in the family. His mother played piano and sang, his father sang in church. So, it wasn’t a surprise when Nathan picked up piano, too. But soon, he began to notice that all his favorite songs on the radio started with a guitar. “I had to figure out how to get in on that,” Drawdy said. So, he started learning guitar, becoming the youth wor-
ship leader and playing in five different Christian rock bands around town as lead vocals and rhythm guitar while writing all the songs. Still, he wasn’t really sure if his musical talent was going to go anywhere — or if it was just a hobby. It wasn’t until his last year at Plant City High School that the chorus director sought him out. He auditioned Drawdy and got him involved in show choir and AP music theory. Drawdy had a passion for the music, but his plans had him going to the University of South Florida after graduation. His chorus director stepped in again, arranging an audition for Drawdy at Stetson University. He nailed it. During his time at Stetson, he saw another calling, though — children. He changed his major from composition to vocal music education. After graduating in 2010, he got a job at Barrington Middle School. Now, his sights are set on Plant City High School after making the move from middle to high school. “The kids are maturing; they have different abilities when they get older,” Drawdy said. Drawdy hopes to use these abilities to grow the program. His plans include trips to amusement parks to sing and larger, more contemporary productions. Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.
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SEARCH / PAGE 1 Management Association, the Florida League of Cities, as well as the Mercer Group’s own network, which includes operations in 13 states. His nine finalists included five from Michigan and four from Florida. “We did not focus on Michigan,” he said. “I can’t tell you why we had so many from Michigan. ... I don’t look at where they are coming from; I look at their qualifications. Every one of these candidates had advanced education, advanced degrees. ... They all have a financial background, and they all have experience. “They all have economic development experience; some are certified as economic developers,” he said. “Most had experience with community redevelopment agencies, downtown redevelopment agencies, historic preservations, and we talked about those issues.” Mayor Rick Lott said the process is difficult, because the city has enjoyed years of success with a strong city manager in Interim City Manager David Sollenberger and former City Manager Greg Horwedel. “We’ve had two excellent city managers; we’ve been very spoiled by (Sollenberger), and I don’t think any of us want anything less,” he said. “I would still like the opportunity to go through the other (applicants) just to see if there was someone else in this group (who) strikes my fancy.” City Commissioner Mary Thomas Mathis said she was skeptical about being able to select a worthy candidate purely by résumé and suggested the commission interview Florida candidates in person and out-of-state candidates by phone or video conferencing. City Commissioner Billy Keel and Vice Mayor Bill Dodson said they both would prefer to pursue more candidates from
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HIGGINBOTHAM’S NINE FINALISTS SCOTT ADKINS FROM: Saint Clair, Mich. CURRENT POSITION: City manager, Roseville, Mich. EDUCATION: Bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Eastern Michigan University (Ypsilanti, Mich.)
manager, Zephyrhills (2011 to 2014) EDUCATION: MPA, University of South Florida; bachelor’s degree in political science, University of Florida
PAUL BRAKE FROM: Laingsburg, Mich. CURRENT POSITION: City manager, Grand Blanc, Mich. EDUCATION: Senior Executive Institute, University of Virginia (Charlottesville); MPA, Western Michigan University; bachelor’s degree, Grand Valley State College (Allendale, Mich.)
CURRENT POSITION: Director
ROBERT BRUNER JR. FROM: Mount Clemens, Mich. CURRENT POSITION: Interim city manager, Mount Clemens, Mich. EDUCATION: Local government management, Eastern Michigan University (Ypsilanti, Mich.); MPA, Wayne State University (Detroit); bachelor’s degree in political science, economics and mathematics, Albion College (Michigan) WILLIAM COOPER FROM: Mount Clemens, Mich. MOST RECENT POSITION: City manager, Hamtramck, Mich. (2008 to 2012) EDUCATION: MPA, Walden University (Baltimore); bachelor’s degree, Governors State University (University Park, Ill.) JAMES DRUMM FROM: Zephyrhills
MOST RECENT POSITION: City
Florida, because of the intricacies of state law and government. Moreover, Dodson said he would welcome candidates from North Carolina, which has a rich history of the council-manager form of government. The commission ultimately decided to keep the application
ERIC JOHNSON FROM: Tampa
of strategic planning, Hillsborough County EDUCATION: MPA, University of South Florida; bachelor’s degree in economics, University of Florida HEATH KAPLAN FROM: Muskegon, Mich. CURRENT POSITION: Finance and management services director, Muskegon County EDUCATION: MPA and bachelor’s degree, Grand Valley State University (Grand Rapids) WAYNE SAUNDERS FROM: Clermont
CURRENT POSITION: Finance
director, Port Orange EDUCATION: MPA and bachelor’s degree in business administration, Western Carolina University (Cullowhee, N.C.) GARY SHIMUN FROM: Pembroke Pines CURRENT POSITION: Chief administrative officer, Plantation EDUCATION: Master’s degree in urban studies, public administration and urban planning University of Akron (Ohio); bachelor’s degree, Northern Michigan University (Marquette, Mich.)
process open, examine more closely the 67 other candidates the initial search provided and discuss potential interviews at the next workshop, scheduled for 4 p.m. Monday, July 28, at City Hall, 302 W. Reynolds St., Plant City. Contact Michael Eng at meng@plantcityobserver.com.
CUTESTCRITTER
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ebecca Polick’s beloved “dorkie,” Emmy, is the first winner of our Cutest Critter Contest. “Hi! My name is Emmy, and people ask me what kind of dog I am,” Polick says. “I tell them a dorkie — a dachshund and yorkie mix! They laugh and chuckle but think I’m cute! I may be small, but size doesn’t matter when it comes to cute.” Turkey Creek Animal Hospital and Animal Wellness Center have partnered to present a monthly 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. Photos will be showcased in the Plant City Times & Observer, and winners also will receive a prize from the hospital. Submit your entries to Editor Michael Eng, meng@plantcityobserver.com; subject line: Cutest Critter Contest. Good luck!
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SOLD! by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor
New auction house hits Plant City block Big Mike’s Auction has moved from its Lakeland location to downtown Plant City. An old warehouse at 203 E. Laura St. has gotten some much-needed renovations, thanks to Mike Williams. The 1,700square-foot BIG MIKE’S space will AUCTION now be Big ADDRESS: 203 E. Mike’s AucLaura St. tions. The PHONE: (863) 738business 3012 moved reEMAIL: cently from BigMikesAuction@ its location aol.com at Knights Station Road in Lakeland UPCOMING to Plant City. AUCTION Williams, The first auction will born and be Aug. 2. Auctions raised in will take place every Plant City, Saturday. remembers Visit facebook. attending com/pages/Bigauctions in Mikes-Auction-Hou the building se/15227214156 in the 1980s. 5525?rf=3615576 Now he’ll get 13895056 for a chance to updates. relive those m e m o r i e s, this time on the other end of the business. Through his 18 years in the industry, he’s learned one thing for certain. “Somebody’s trash is truly
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
someone else’s treasure,” Williams said. He’s sold everything — tools, animal heads, tractors, cars and even a solid copper and brass vintage diving helmet, which pulled in a $650 bid. But one thing that sets Big Mike’s Auction apart is where he gets his merchandise. In addition to consignment items, he also has contracts with major department stores and the Home Shopping Network. Returns that do not work he puts in a discounted pile with a disclaimer. Many people sift through the items to find that they are easily repairable. “You’ll get addicted — that’s the best way to put it,” Williams said. “We get enough stuff to make women happy from the Home Shopping Network and enough tools for men. Consignment is an extra plus.” The building is just about done for the first auction, which is scheduled Aug. 2. Williams has invested about $40,000 since January to redo the floors, update the kitchen for concessions, make it handicap accessible and paint the entire structure. They also added some antiques for decor including wagon wheels, vin-
Amber Jurgensen
Mike Williams has been in the auction business for 18 years. tage signs and cow skulls. The city was a huge help in guiding him. “I just have to thank the city,” Williams said. “All I had to do is ask and they told me what I needed to do. It was really just bringing it up to code.”
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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 100-A, Plant City, FL 33563
And antiques aren’t just adorning the walls. Every two months, Big Mike’s Auction will host an antique sale. There also will be sales every Saturday, with about 1,000 to 1,200 lots per sale. Big Mike’s Auction is accept-
CONTACT US The Plant City Times & Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. 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.
ing consignments from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, or by appointment. Commission ranges from 24% to 50%. Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.
Plant City Times &
Observer
General Manager/Editorial / Michael Eng, meng@PlantCityObserver.com General Manager/Advertising / Stacey Hudson, shudson@tampabay.com Assistant Managing Editor / Jess Eng, jeng@PlantCityObserver.com
Associate Editor / (Community) Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@PlantCityObserver.com Staff Writer / Justin Kline, jkline@PlantCityObserver.com Advertising Executives / Veronica Prostko, vprostko@PlantCityObserver.com; Joanna Verga, jverga@tampabay.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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real estate by Michael Eng | Editor
Custom estate home tops June sales A custom-built home on 20 acres in northeast Plant City was the top residential realestate transaction in June. The home at 3229 Lampp Road sold June 25, for $450,000. Built in 2001, it has five bedrooms, three-andone-half baths, a pool and 3,469 square feet of living area on 20 acres. The price per square foot is $129.72.
ALEXANDER WOODS
The townhome at 237 Alexander Woods Drive sold June 20, for $111,000. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,789 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $62.05. The townhome at 177 Alexander Woods Drive sold June 17, for $98,500. Built in 2013, it has two bedrooms, two-
and-one-half baths and 1,466 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $67.19. The townhome at 231 Alexander Woods Drive sold June 11, for $98,500. Built in 2013, it has two bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,466 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $67.19. The townhome at 260 Alexander Woods Drive sold June 6, for $90,000. Built in 2008, it has two bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,282 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $70.20.
ASHBROOK
The home at 2806 S. Forbes Road sold June 30, for $70,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2001, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,512 square
feet of living area. The price per square foot is $46.30.
BLAIN ACRES
The home at 1005 Barbour Drive sold June 30, for $49,900 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1961, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,293 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $38.59.
BRACEWELL HEIGHTS
The home at 1901 N. Gordon St. sold June 16, for $80,000. Built in 1927, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 1,220 square feet of living area on two acres. The price per square foot is $65.57. The home at 2305 Warnell Loop sold June 30, for $64,900 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1980, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,358 square
MONTHLY SNAPSHOT Houses Sold: 80 High Sale Price: $450,000 Low Sale Price: $30,000 Average Sale Price: $132,958 Median Sale Price: $105,000 Short Sales: Eight REO/Bank Owned: 26 feet of living area. The price per square foot is $47.79.
CHERRY PARK
The home at 1206 N. Maryland Ave. sold June 30, for $65,201 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1959, it has three bedrooms, one-and-one-half baths and 1,052 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $61.98.
CLARKS ADDITION
The home at 1010 Woodlawn Ave. sold June 10, for $60,000 (short sale). Built in 1953, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,178 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $50.93.
COLONIAL VILLAGE
The home at 2504 Savannah Drive sold June 27, for $118,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1984, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,560 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $75.64.
COUNTRY HILLS
The home at 4317 Country Hills Blvd. sold June 27, for $75,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2003, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,285 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $58.37.
The home at 4706 Breeze Ave. sold June 10, for $75,539 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1996, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,398 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $54.03.
EASTRIDGE PRESERVE
The home at 3308 Ranchdale Drive sold June 30, for $327,000. Built in 2013, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 3,332 square feet of living area on 1.01 acres. The price per square foot is $98.14.
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY
The home at 1905 N. Maryland Ave. sold June 25, for $385,000. Built in 2006, it has five bedrooms, three-andone-half baths, a pool and 3,377 square feet of living area on 1.13 acres. The price per square foot is $114.01.
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ROSELAND PARK
The home at 303 E. Roseland Park Ave. sold June 18, for $135,000 (short sale). Built in 1962, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,824 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $74.01.
TOWER GROVE ESTATES
The home at 622 Tower Drove Drive sold June 17, for $174,500. Built in 2013, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,523 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $114.58.
TRAPNELL RIDGE
Michael Eng
The home at 3229 Lampp Road, which has five bedrooms, three-and-one-half baths, a pool and 3,469 square feet of living area on 20 acres, sold for $450,000. The home at 38010 Midway Road sold June 25, for $237,750 (short sale). Built in 1979, it has five bedrooms, two baths and 2,964 square feet of living area on 10.88 acres. The price per square foot is $80.21.
No. 65, sold June 6, for $38,500 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1987, it has two bedrooms, one-and-one-half baths and 896 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $42.97.
The home at 4801 Calhoun Road sold June 6, for $205,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1934, it has six bedrooms, fourand-one-half baths, a pool and 6,583 square feet of living area on 4.81 acres. The price per square foot is $31.14.
The home at 2302 Maki Road, No. 83, sold June 10, for $33,500 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1987, it has two bedrooms, one-and-one-half baths and 896 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $37.39.
The home at 907 N. Wilder Road sold June 23, for $204,645 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths, a pool and 3,142 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $65.13.
The home at 2302 Maki Road, No. 105, sold June 23, for $31,900 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1987, it has two bedrooms, one-and-one-half baths and 896 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $35.60.
The manufactured home at 5321 Bruton Road sold June 20, for $200,000. Built in 1989, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 1,848 square feet of living area on 14.4 acres. The price per square foot is $108.23.
LINCOLN PARK
The manufactured home at 5751 Bob Smith Ave. sold June 3, for $164,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,922 square feet of living area on 4.61 acres. The price per square foot is $85.33.
The home at 1406 E. Laura St. sold June 27, for $72,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,290 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $55.81.
The home at 3105 Chitty Road sold June 19, for $140,000. Built in 1976, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,456 square feet of living area on .92 acres. The price per square foot is $96.15. The home at 115 W. Strickland St. sold June 5, for $120,000. Built in 1922, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,920 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $62.50. The home at 1312 Lindsey Road sold June 26, for $105,000. Built in 1946, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 1,176 square feet of living area on 1.34 acres. The price per square foot is $89.29. The home at 1201 Johnson Road sold June 13, for $100,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1962, it has five bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 2,508 square feet of living area on 1.04 acres. The price per square foot is $39.87.
HISTORIC PLANT CITY
The home at 914 Roux St. sold June 27, for $125,000. Built in 1949, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,848 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $67.64.
HOOKERS SUB
The home at 17 N. Woodrow Wilson St. sold June 23, for $49,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1952, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 1,200 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $40.83.
ISLAND POND ESTATES
The home at 2505 Keene Road sold June 30, for $81,900. Built in 1960, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 2,286 square feet of living area on 1.04 acres. The price per square foot is $35.83.
KENTWOOD PARK
The home at 2302 Maki Road, No. 82, sold June 26, for $43,000 (short sale). Built in 1987, it has two bedrooms, one-and-one-half baths and 960 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $46.74. The home at 2302 Maki Road,
The home at 1404 E. Laura St. sold June 27, for $72,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,290 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $55.81.
The home at 13 S. Warnell St. sold June 30, for $34,000 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 1987, it has four bedrooms, oneand-one-half baths and 1,440 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $23.61.
MADISON PARK
The home at 1214 W. Washington St. sold June 26, for $60,000. Built in 2000, it has three bedrooms, one bath and 1,063 square feet of living area.
The price per square foot is $56.44. The home at 803 W. Warren St. sold June 27, for $30,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1962, it has two bedrooms, one bath and 768 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $39.06.
MICHAELANGELO
The home at 5235 Dove Nest Lane sold June 24, for $300,000. Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,032 square feet of living area on 3.67 acres. The price per square foot is $147.64.
OAKDALE
The home at 1302 Oakdale St. sold June 4, for $78,265 (short sale). Built in 1957, it has three bedrooms, oneand-one-half baths and 7,712 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $45.72.
OAKVIEW ESTATES
The home at 3110 Camphor Drive sold June 23, for $95,000. Built in 1977, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 1,375 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $69.09. The home at 2908 S. Pineway Drive sold June 26, for $93,000. Built in 1975, it has three bedrooms, one-and-one-half baths and 1,264 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $73.58.
PEACOCK GROVE
The home at 2815 Medulla Road sold June 13, for $205,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2005, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,900 square feet of living area on 1.03 acres. The price per square foot is $107.89.
The home at 3415 Berry Blossom Lane sold June 6, for $122,564 (REO/bank owned). Built in 2006, it has three bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,845 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $66.43.
WALDEN LAKE
The home at 3908 Hampton Place Court sold June 20, for $335,000. Built in 2003, it has four bedrooms, threeand-one-half baths, a pool and 2,972 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $112.72. The home at 2814 Clubhouse Drive sold June 26, for $275,000. Built in 1994, it has five bedrooms, three baths and 2,971 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $92.56. The home at 2912 Spring Hammock Drive sold June 20, for $265,000. Built in 1999, it has four bedrooms, three baths and 2,631 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $100.72. The home at 3206 Alcott Ave. sold June 9, for $255,000. Built in 1993, it has four bedrooms, three baths, a pool and 2,348 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $108.60. The home at 3511 Sandburg Loop sold June 12, for $224,900. Built in 1998, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,169 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $103.69. The home at 2910 Juniper Lake Place sold June 30, for $212,500. Built in 2002, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,875 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $113.33. The home at 2815 Hammock Drive sold June 6, for
SEE SALES / PAGE 10
ª 3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP SALES / PAGE 9 $200,000. Built in 1985, it has four bedrooms, two baths and 2,556 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $78.25. The home at 3330 Silverpond Drive sold June 26, for $200,000. Built in 1993, it has four bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 2,429 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $82.34. The home at 3307 Cummings Place sold June 19, for $193,000. Built in 1996, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,874 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $102.99. The home at 1512 Teakwood Drive sold June 12, for $192,000. Built in 1977, it has three bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,992 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $96.39. The home at 3320 Michener Place sold June 20, for $175,000. Built in 1998, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,746 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $100.23. The home at 4201 Thackery Way sold June 16, for $175,000 (short sale). Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms,
two baths, a pool and 1,634 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $107.10. The home at 4005 Thackery Way sold June 20, for $169,000 (short sale). Built in 1991, it has two bedrooms, two baths, a pool and 1,998 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $84.58. The home at 4110 Longfellow Drive sold June 27, for $152,000. Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,632 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $93.14. The home at 4105 Longfellow Drive sold June 13, for $142,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1990, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,625 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $87.38. The villa at 207 Valencia Court N. sold June 10, for $139,900. Built in 1979, it has two bedrooms, two baths and 1,718 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $81.43. The home at 1307 Sandalwood Drive sold June 16, for $139,000. Built in 1978, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,607 square feet of liv-
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ing area. The price per square foot is $86.50. The home at 2630 Bridle Drive sold June 13, for $125,000 (REO/bank owned). Built in 1988, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,676 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $74.58. The condominium at 2107 Preservation Drive, No. 20, sold June 20, for $117,500. Built in 1994, it has two bedrooms, two-and-one-half baths and 1,621 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $72.49. The home at 803 Sandalwood Drive sold June 16, for $88,750. Built in 1979, it has three bedrooms, two baths and 1,691 square feet. The price per square foot is $52.48.
WALDEN WOODS
The townhome at 2038 Greenwood Valley Drive sold June 3, for $117,000. Built in 2008, it has three bedrooms, three baths and 1,572 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $74.43. The townhome at 1916 Greenwood Valley Drive sold June 11, for $70,875 (REO/ bank owned). Built in 2007, it has three bedrooms, twoand-one-half baths and 1,632 square feet of living area. The price per square foot is $43.43.
OBSERVEROBITUARIES Ernest Halbert Barnhill
Ernest Halbert Barnhill, 84, of Tampa, died peacefully July 6, 2014, at his home. He was the owner of Barnhill Tree Service and served in the U.S. Marines. He is survived by his wife, Janette; grandson, Sgt. Brett Bud Hall, of the Marines; five children, Debbie, Dale, Judy, Phyllis and Mary; and one brother, Frank. A funeral service was held July 10, at Landmark Baptist Church, Seffner. Condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com.
William “Bill” Ciganik
William “Bill” Ciganik, 83, of Plant City, died July 1, 2014, at Melech Hospice House. Born June 24, 1931, in Ionia, Mich., he was the son of William J. Ciganik and Mary (Panik) Ciganik. Mr. Ciganik owned his own body shop in Greenville, Mich., for 20 years, before moving to Florida. His hobbies included fishing, woodworking and golf. Survivors include his wife of 51 years, Karen; daughters, Victoria (James) Schultz, Becky (Joe) Wright and Pam Ciganik; son, Kevin Ciganik; siblings, Lilly Rinvelt, MaryAnn Bies and Jerry (Donna) Ciganik; sisterin-law, Jane Ciganik; seven grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his brother, John; sister, Marge (Merv); and daughter-in-law, Sharon. Memorial contributions may be made to LifePath Hospice, Temple Terrace. Condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com.
Joyce Ann Frier
Joyce Ann Frier, 57, of Plant City, died July 7, 2014, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, in Lakeland. Born Oct. 14, 1956, in Plant
City, she was the daughter of the late Walter Frier and the late Nellie Lastinger Frier. Survivors include sons, Patrick (Stephanie) Clark and Jesus Perez Hernandez; brother, Terry Dale Frier; sisters, Helen Pharis and Betty Jean Matthews; and two grandchildren. Condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com.
Sarah Ellen Smith
Sarah Ellen Smith, 75 of Plant City, died July 4, 2014, at South Bay Hospital, in Sun City Center. Born Feb. 9, 1939, in Allentown, she was the daughter of the late John and Antie Mae Hughes Linzy. She was the wife of the late Ed Smith. Mrs. Smith attended Faith Lighthouse Church, loved the Lord and was a dedicated Christian lady. She was an excellent cook and cherished her time with her family. Survivors include daughters, Tammy Browning (Randall) and Sharon Saxon-Rounds (Rick); brothers, Ommer Linzy and Elmer Linzy; sisters, Jewel Gould, Leona Coone, Pauline Lehman, Margaret Middlebrooks and Brenda Rose; six grandchildren; seven greatgrandchildren; and three greatgreat-grandchildren. A funeral service was held July 8, at Faith Lighthouse Church, Plant City. Condolences may be made at haughtfuneralhome.com.
Billy Williams
Billy Williams, 84, of Plant City, died July 5, 2014, at Community Care. Mr. Williams was born Oct. 28, 1929, in Plant City, to Andrew Jackson Williams and Molly (Fulford). He married his sweetheart Mattie (Valentine) 65 years ago; she survives. Mr. Williams started working in the phosphate mines, before he started peddling fruits and vegetables. Mr. Williams
worked the land for 55 years and was a pioneer of the strawberry industry. He experienced lots of changes from irrigating one acre out of a ditch to simply pushing a button to cover 25 acres. He was a great mentor to many of the farming community and would always stop to lend a hand or converse with his fellow farming friends. Mr. Williams helped a lot of different ways and provided for many charitable organizations. When it was his turn to be picked for the first pint of strawberries, he was proud to donate those funds, sometimes to his alma mater, Springhead Elementary. He will be deeply missed by many, including his wife, Mattie; two sons, Billy Keith Williams (Laural) and Darryl Williams (Gwen); two daughters, Susan Williams and Debbie Norris (Jerry); seven grandchildren, Sherrie Kirton, Jay Kirton, Amanda Brewer, Chris Williams, Sarah Avram, Kacy Richardson and Brittany Warner; and four great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held July 8, at Mt. Enon Primitive Baptist Church. Condolences may be made at wellsmemorial.com.
Nancy “Janie” Wilson
Nancy “Janie” Wilson, 94, died July 12, 2014, in Plant City Mrs. Wilson was a member of Little Union Primitive Baptist Church, in Lithia, enjoyed fishing and gardening and worked alongside her husband, Ellis Wilson, at Wilson’s Wholesale Nursery. Survivors include daughters, Carolyn Patterson (Pat) and Joyce Wise (John); sister, Una Lewis; five grandchildren; and several great- and great-great grandchildren. She is predeceased by her husband, Ellis; three brothers; and three sisters. A funeral service was held July 16, at Little Union Primitive Baptist Church.
Sports
YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | COMMUNITY
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Keyshawn Green scores winning RBI in annual kickball game. 14 SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM
PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM
SIDELINES Do you have a good sports scoop for us? Contact Justin Kline at jkline@ plantcityobserver.com.
FOOTBALL
+ Tavares Chase cracks ESPN 300 “Cracks” might be an understatement. Last week, Plant City High School wide receiver/ defensive back Tavares Chase found himself on ESPN’s Junior 300 for the first time — but, rather than just barely making it, he ended up at No. 205 with a four-star rating. Chase currently has over 20 offers from Division I schools and has yet to make a verbal commitment.
LITTLE LEAGUE
THURSDAY, JULY 17, 2014
swimming by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
Local swimmers catch ride on Blue Wave Blue Wave Swimming, located in Brandon, has become an attractive offseason training ground for swimmers from Durant and Strawberry Crest high schools. There’s no sport quite like competitive swimming, at least in terms of training. Athletes get up at the crack of dawn to jump in the pool and push their entire bodies to the limit, all in the name of shaving off a few seconds — or 10ths of seconds — from their times. There are plenty of pools around town in which to practice, or to at least swim laps in to stay conditioned. With that said, what is it about Blue Wave
Swimming that has Plant Cityarea kids driving all the way out to Brandon? There’s more than one answer. But, it all comes back to the program itself, and who is running the show. Head coach Ron Turner, who took over the program 14 months ago, runs a tight ship at the aquatic complex. But, that’s precisely what the kids want. “These practices are way different than what we would do
at a high school practice,” Gigi Gibbs says. “Ron makes sure that we’re prepared for states, so that’s our main goal at the end of the day — to be ready to go out there and kill it, to be ready for college.” Gibbs, an incoming senior at Strawberry Crest High, is joined by six other Strawberry Crest classmates — two of whom have just graduated — at every practice. They are joined by several swimmers from Durant
Justin Kline
Strawberry Crest athletes Zach Kitzis, Alonzo Biala, Cole Wisecarver and Gigi Gibbs all train at Blue Wave Swimming. High School, who also are sold on Turner’s competitive drive. “I’m here to try to rebuild (the program) and get us back to that level of being peren-
SEE SWIMMING / 12
WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?
CHEERLEADING by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
How do international swimmers find U.S. programs?
+ PCLL teams show heart in tournament Three Plant City Little League squads took the field for the Section 4 tournaments July 11 to 13. 10-11 Softball: Competing in the smallest field of the bunch — the 10-11 Softball team only had to face Palmetto Little League — the Plant City team played hard to stay alive, after dropping the first game, 6-4. In the elimination game, the girls kept it close until the third inning — when Palmetto’s offense caught fire and put four runs on the scoreboard. That put the final score at 6-2, but the Plant City girls didn’t let that dampen their spirits. Senior Softball: Although Plant City started on a good note, beating Zephyrhills 7-5 July 11, in the tournament opener, they were edged out the next morning by eventual champion Lake Wales, 11-7, and then walloped by runner-up Dade City, 13-1, in the afternoon. The girls did end the tourney with a big win, though — a five-inning, 16-5 blowout over East Point. 9-10 Baseball: The Plant City A team continued its strong postseason run over the weekend by cruising to the Section 4 Championship game. The boys recorded 10-0 shutouts against both South Brandon and Land O’Lakes, and didn’t get much more of a fight from runner-up Manatee West — an 11-3 rout over six innings. With the Section 4 championship win, the 9-10 A team is getting ready to compete in this weekend’s state tourney in Fort Myers.
nially competitive with other teams across the country,” Turner says.
Lindsey Hoover has big plans for Fierce Athletics once the building is ready to open.
Justin Kline
ONE OF A KIND Until now, Plant City has never had a true cheerleading gym in town. Local coach Lindsey Hoover created Fierce Athletics to change that.
I
n Plant City, cheerleading is serious business. So serious that cheerleaders and their families are willing to travel nearly an hour away just to train at the nearest gyms, which can cost thousands of dollars per year. Soon, though, those problems won’t exist in the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World. Local cheer coach Lindsey Hoover, formerly of the Plant City Stallions and Dolphins, is opening up her own cheer gym near Midtown. Fierce Athletics, housed in a new building on Hitchcock Street, will be the first gym of its kind in town. “I’d been contemplating opening my own gym for the last year and a half,” Hoover says. “Within the last
six months, I’ve decided to just go with it. I said, ‘You know what? It’s now or never.’”
PASSION PROJECT
Once Hoover started cheering, it didn’t take long for her to realize she wanted to be a coach. In fact, the coaching she received was what kept her active in the sport. “When I was younger, I cheered,” she says. “But, I had more of a passion for coaching kids, in general. I just kind of had a natural, motherly instinct, I guess. I just love kids. I got into coaching, and that’s how I found my passion.” So, she began helping out wher-
SEE HOOVER / 12
SO YOU THINK YOU CAN CHEER? Did you miss the cheer camp and tryouts? Fear not — there still may be a space available for your cheerleader. Anyone interested in trying out can contact Lindsey Hoover directly at (813) 525-2503 or by email at Fierceathletics1@gmail. com. Anyone ages 4-15 is welcome to try out, and cheerleaders will be assigned to teams based on their age and skill level. Children with special needs also will have a chance to compete — Hoover is also looking to start a competitive team for special-needs cheerleaders.
I can’t speak for all Olympic sports, but it seems to me that more international swimmers come to America to train than athletes in any other event. Florida especially seems to be a hotspot, but it’s easy to figure out why: The weather is generally great for training year-round. And, everywhere I’ve gone since I moved here, local swimJUSTIN mers have KLINE been doing big things. I used to live in Winter Haven, home of American gold medalist Kenneth Brokenburr. When I lived in Lakeland and interned at the Lakeland Ledger in the summer of 2012, one of my biggest stories (and my first-ever front cover feature) was about Olympic swimmer Allan Gutierrez — who had come from Honduras to America to study at and swim for Florida Southern College. When I attended Florida Gulf Coast University, the swim team was loaded with talent from all over the globe — some swimmers hailed from Sweden, Barbados, Puerto Rico, Scotland and more. And, they were good — especially the “Swedish Fish,” Emma Svensson, who in March, became the first Eagle to ever place in the finals at the NCAA Division I Championships. This week, I spent part of my Monday morning talking to the head of a program that has produced Olympic swimmers for the last 46 years. I figured that, if anyone
SEE KLINE / 14
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SWIMMING / FROM 11 And, he knows how to do it. Turner has the credentials that serious swimmers, including Gibbs and her classmates, seek.
STORIED HISTORY
THIS WEEK’S CROSSWORD ANSWERS
Long before Turner took over, Blue Wave was well-known for producing successful swimmers in its 50 years of existence. They’ve had perennial success on an Olympic level. “Through the program, we’ve had an Olympian in every Olympics since 1968,” he says. That includes American swimmer and Durant alum Brooke Bennett, who won one gold medal in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and two in the 2000 Sydney Olympics. At Athens in 2004, they sent American Maritza Correia — who won a silver medal with the 4x100 relay team. Golda Marcus competed for El Salvador at Beijing in 2008, and diver Chris Colwill — now the head of Blue Wave’s diving program — won gold at London two years ago. Turner has some experience working with Olympians, coaching six in some capacity. He’s worked most closely with Charlie Houchin, who won gold in the 2012 800-meter free relay. Turner also has worked with the U.S. National Team,
HOOVER / FROM 11
2013
THIS WEEK’S CRYPTOGRAM ANSWERS 1. A witch was complaining of all the rain. She told her friends she was going to an arid area where she would try out some dry spells. 2. One toastmaster preached very solemnly to another: “Never mince words.” The woman replied: “You should, as it’s easier to eat them later on.”
ever she could. She worked with high schools, competitive teams, recreational sports leagues — anything with a cheer team. Attending clinics with Tampa-based coach Rick Schulz, of STARS Athletics, helped her refine her craft and hone her coaching ability. Her memories with the sport are fond, but it’s her run with the Dolphins — three conference titles in three years — that brings her the most pride. “Just being the best of the best in our conference for three years running was a huge deal for me,” Hoover says. She chalks it up to the challenge. In her opinion, it’s more difficult to coach a team like the Dolphins than a competitive team. “There’s not a whole lot of
DOES SHAVING MATTER? To nearly all swimmers, shaving is crucial to one’s success. If there’s even so much as one hair anywhere below the neck, it’s got to go. Aerodynamics, you know? “When you’re suited up and you’re hairless everywhere, you’ve been rested, your whole mindset is completely different,” Gigi Gibbs says. “You’re like, ‘This is it.’ And, ‘I’m gonna kill it.’ And that’s kind of how we are at big meets.” But, swimmers don’t always have time to shave their entire bodies. And, when they don’t, they can’t help but think about it. At last weekend’s Southern Zone South Sectional meet in Orlando,
many of the Blue Wave swimmers didn’t shave — and, they’ve said it affected their times. “It was a little tough, though, because everyone at the meet was shaved and tapered,” Zach Kitzis says. “They were ready to go allout. We weren’t shaved or tapered. It was a weird feeling. We kind of had to race from the back of all of our heats, so we kind of had to deal with that mindset, also.” Hearing the swimmers describe it, it sounds more like a psychological thing than a physical one. After all, body hair is very fine — it’s not likely to make a huge impact on one’s time, if at all.
serving as an assistant coach at the 2007 Pan-Am Games. Turner’s experience with colleges also has helped some of his older swimmers. “Ron’s had experience coaching colleges before, so he’s helped us a lot with what to expect once we get to college,” Cole Wisecarver says. “What to expect from practices, what to expect from the coaches, as to what they’ll do
with us, stuff like that. It helps a lot.” Wisecarver graduated recently from Strawberry Crest with teammate Zach Kitzis, and both are attending Florida Atlantic University in the fall. Even for swimmers who don’t have college plans in their immediate future, the seriousness of the program helps bring swimmers in — and keeps them coming back.
money involved — it’s just for fun, so the kids feel like it’s just for fun,” Hoover says. “And, you have a very short window to not only teach them sideline cheers but to come up with a competition routine and compete within two months. It doesn’t seem like a lot when compared to competitive cheerleading, but you’re dealing with a whole different level of athletes.” Hoover has been coaching steadily since 2006, but this will be the first gym that she’s owned. Before Fierce Athletics, she coached the Stallions out of a local dance studio.
petitive squad to train. Finding anything closer than Brandon and Lakeland was a challenge, too — there’s nothing else nearby. “The high schools, before, they were traveling to Brandon,” Hoover says. “So, all of those girls, 34 cheerleaders, were traveling to Brandon every week to do the same thing that, now, I can give them here in their hometown.” Along with the commuting costs that rack up over time, at three to five days per week, there’s the cost of the programs themselves. Hoover estimates that, on average, a cheerleader’s family spends anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000 per year. Not exactly pocket change, for most families. That’s why Hoover decided to make Fierce Athletics a nonprofit organization — to help
FILLING A NEED
Sharing space in the dance studio meant sharing a space with the dancers. Although both groups practiced in separate rooms, it wasn’t the most ideal location for a com-
PROVING GROUND
There’s Niko Milosavljevic, who will be a sophomore at Durant in the fall. He had spent some time with the Blue Wave program before leaving two years ago, only to join Durant’s team as a freshman. That experience, though, ended up bringing him back to Brandon. “I missed the team environment,” he says. “I liked the camaraderie — everyone was cheering for each other and they actually, genuinely care. They weren’t fake about it.” After the Durant season ended, Milosavljevic decided to leave the sport for some time. Three weeks ago, he came back to Blue Wave to see if he still had the will to compete. High school swimming, he says, wasn’t serious enough for him. He wanted to work hard year-round to prove to others — and himself — that he’s got talent. “I want to prove to the world that I’m a good swimmer, and I’ve got to prove that to myself,” Milosavljevic says. “It seems like swimming’s my outlet. With bad stuff happening, I get to escape here and swim. It’s the only consistent thing in my life.” Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com. any child’s family afford the costs. “It opened up a door to get sponsorships,” she says. To get a tax write-off for it, so that I can give scholarships to children who really are committed to the sport but just can’t afford all of it. My biggest goal is to make this program affordable for any child who wants the opportunity to become a cheerleader.” She wants to be able to offer scholarships to her cheerleaders, with help from sponsors. Ideally, they would be full rides — if not, then they would at least cover half of the total cost.
THE MORE, THE MERRIER
Hoover says she’s astounded by the support she’s received from Plant City. At the June 28 cheer camp she co-hosted with fellow Fierce coach Brent Higgins and the Plant City High School team, 65 aspiring cheerleaders worked on their skills in the high school’s gym. “Plant City High School’s cheerleaders have been amazing to me,” she says. “They’ve been super supportive. I’m actually training them here in the gym as well, working on tumbling and some other things with Coach (Karen) Snapp.” After holding team tryouts last week, Hoover got more than she ever imagined. She came in with the goal of fielding one competitive team but ended up with enough cheerleaders to field three. “I’m going to have about three teams this year, which is amazing — I was going to be happy starting out with one team, but I have three,” she says. The goal is to have all of the teams ready to compete by October. Hoover already has hired a professional choreographer to work on the routines next month and just needs to finish moving into the building. “I’m determined,” she says. “I’m ready to go.” Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.
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just for kicks by Justin Kline | Staff Writer
KLINE / FROM 11
MLK Rec Center bests Planteen in summer kickball showdown In the third annual battle of the Plant City recreation centers, the MLK Rec Center kickball team picked up its second consecutive win July 11. The Planteen squad jumped out to a 1-0 lead early in the game, but it wasn’t long before the home team tied it at 1-1. After some defensive plays from both sides, the tie remained until the last inning. That’s when MLK, with two runners on base, kicked a walk-off RBI single. And then, as is tradition, Planteen managers Jason Hargrove and Shawn Lake were pied in the face.
The pies had been sitting out in the heat for some time and did not smell good.
could tell me how so many international athletes latch on to programs like Blue Wave and FGCU, it would be Ron Turner. “We don’t go looking for them,” Turner told me. “With the history of our program and our location in Florida, they come looking for us. Some of our international swimmers already have previous relationships with former coaches here, current coaches here, friends that they’ve met, other swimmers at international meets and such. They find us before we find them. “I think what happens is, sometimes, they come over and maybe get experience to go to Miami for a meet,
or Orlando for a meet. They see teams from the area and they just start inquiring. They come and find us, ask if they can train and, obviously, we accommodate those swimmers.” What drives them to come to America, though? Why do some of them choose to move here, rather than stay in their home countries? I looked back at my profile of Gutierrez, because I thought I remembered writing about this. Sure enough, we had talked about it in our email conversation. Gutierrez is as smart as all get out — he graduated fifth in his class in 2010 with a 3.7 GPA and earned an opportunity to swim and study at FSC. But, that left him with a tough
choice to make: he could either move to America to study and swim, alone, or stay with his family in Honduras. He told me moving was the hardest decision of his life but that he also knew it was the only way he’d keep swimming. Two years later, he swam for his country in the London Olympics. He didn’t medal, but the opportunity to compete on that stage was good enough for him. Had he not come to Florida, he may never have been able to say that he is a former Olympian. Maybe the next Allan Gutierrez is right here in Plant City, thinking about latching on with a competitive team and shooting for the moon. Who knows?
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM
KEYSHAWN GREEN The third annual kickball game between the Planteen and MLK rec centers came right down to the wire. A 1-1 tie carried into the final inning and, when Keyshawn Green came up to kick, MLK had gotten a few runners on base. Green gave it his best shot and, to his surprise, scored the winning RBI for his team.
The MLK team claimed the trophy for the second year.
Planteen scored the first run of the game early on.
You guys took home the title for the second year in a row, but Planteen gave you a fight this time. What was going on out there? We were just kicking the ball up in the air too many times. They were catching them, back-to-back, and we couldn’t get runs. Let’s go to the last at-bat, right before you hit the game-winning kick. What were you thinking at the plate? I was thinking, like, I could do it, but I was doubting myself because they were spread out. But, Miss Lillie (Brown) always pushed me to do stuff, and I did it. You did it, and everyone started celebrating in the dugout. How happy were you? I was happy. I was proud of myself. What was the celebration like, afterward? Miss Lillie had cooked food for us, there was Kool-Aid, and we had fun after that. Did you get Coach Ja’Vae (Ingram) with the water cooler? No, sir. He didn’t have any extra clothes. Seeing Miss Lillie pie those coaches — how cool was that? It was cool, because they had set the pies in the sun, so they were watery. And, they thought we were going to lose, but we won. It backfired on them. Did you get any time with the trophy? Yes, sir. How have you been celebrating? Playing dodgeball, started playing basketball. We’re
done with kickball now, so we’re playing basketball and football. What other sports do you play? Football and basketball. I play football with the Plant City Colts — fullback and defensive line. I like defensive line better. I play basketball for Plant City Recreation Department. What are your other hobbies? That’s it. Just sports. Where do you go to school? Marshall Middle School. I’m in seventh grade. My favorite subject is math. I like geometry and square roots. Oh, and we’ve got the summer program at the rec center. My favorite field trip is Wet ‘n’ Wild. What are your favorite movies? “Friday,” and action movies. TV shows? I like the sports channels, ESPN. What are your favorite teams? I like the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the New England Patriots. Do you like the Cavs because of LeBron James? Yes. And the Patriots for football — why them? I don’t know. I just like their running backs and wide receivers. Favorite video games? “Madden 25,” “NBA 2K14.” Playstation 3, Playstation 4. My team in “NBA 2K14” is the Oklahoma City Thunder. Favorite food? All of it. I like Brisk fruit punch. If you could have any superpower for a day, what would it be? Kicking power. I’d use it for next year’s kickball tournament. I want to kick it 30 to 50 feet. So, if that ball clears the fence, who are you telling to go get it? Probably Coach Ja’Vae.
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PLANT CITY
RAIN
(INCHES)
WEATHER
WED. July 9
0.49
THURS.
TEMPERATURES
July 10
1.04
FRI.
Thurs., July 17 Fri., July 18 Sat., July 19 Sun., July 20 Mon., July 21 Tues., July 22 Wed., July 23
July 11
1.33
SAT.
July 12
1.13
SUN.
July 13
0.02
MON.
July 14
0.74
TUES.
July 15
1.38I
JULY
TO DATE
6.72 (2013: 1.08)
YEAR
TO DATE 17.43 (2013: 20.8)
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HIGH 87 92 94 93 92 91 89
SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES Thurs., July 17 Fri., July 18 Sat., July 19 Sun., July 20 Mon., July 21 Tues., July 22 Wed., July 23
SUNRISE 6:43 a.m. 6:43 a.m. 6:44 a.m. 6:44 a.m. 6:45 a.m. 6:45 a.m. 6:46 a.m.
SUNSET 8:27 p.m. 8:26 p.m. 8:26 p.m. 8:25 p.m. 8:25 p.m. 8:25 p.m. 8:24 p.m.
LOW 73 73 73 73 73 73 74
MOON PHASES
Aug. 10
Aug. 17
OKRA SHIPPING POINT: ORLANDO SIZE 1/2 bushel ctns
LOW $12.35
HIGH $12.85
Aug. 25
Courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture Aug. 3
, 3&
Denise Williamson submitted this beautiful shot of a butterfly visiting a sunflower. She calls it, “Backyard Summers.” 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 Michael Eng, meng@plantcityobserver.com; subject line: I Love Plant City. Winners can pick up their prize at Grimes Hardware.
QUIET!
By Mason Lorry | Edited by Timothy E. Parker ACROSS 1 With “contendere,” it’s a court term 5 ___ Major (southern constellation) 10 Royal domain 15 Cleanliness eschewer 19 Got an A-plus on 20 What Santa Claus is 21 Not docked 22 Super apparel item 23 Piano-piece pages 25 Office worker’s necessity 26 Bakery appliance 27 Vessel for couples? 28 Light figures 29 Boss in a plant, often 31 Diminishes 33 Chimps and baboons 34 “Ain’t it the truth!” 35 Old-time gumshoe 36 Afghan capital 38 Ladder steps 40 Needing more help 44 Brown-tinted photo 45 Put in stitches 48 Bring on new employees 49 Al Capone foe Ness 50 Cancun cash 51 Bind again 53 Following 55 Tag antagonists 56 Antiquated 57 Distinctive air 58 Bother 60 Arctic, for one 61 Set, as cement 63 He deals in sails and ropes 67 South American cowboy 71 Adds liquor discreetly 72 Paper pastime 77 Eugene O’Neill’s “___ Christie” 78 Large-eyed Madagascar native
79 81 82 84 85 87 88 89 91 93 94 95 96 99 100 104 107 109 110 111 112 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121
Hold up Mr. Spock’s forte Kind of remark Annoying smell Heroic tales Not even one Witch’s curse Friendly Islands, formally Chef’s breakfast creation, perhaps Thrust Fur wrap “Old MacDonald Had a Farm” sound Eightsomes Miscellany Having three leaflets One receiving dividends Type of broom Postal creed conjunction Soft-drink trademark Nitrous ___ (laughing gas) Place with crude dwellings Excessively dry Furnace button Door-hanging device April 13, e.g. Ashcroft’s predecessor Spreadsheet jotting Ham-and-___ (average Joe) Animal hide
DOWN 1 Sounding stuffy 2 British version of 56-Down 3 Scallion relatives 4 Poem of homage 5 War chief Black Horse’s tribe 6 Lies adjacent to another 7 Home for hatchlings
SUDOKU PACIFIC Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 24 29 30 32 33 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 50 52 54 56 59 60 61 62 64 65 66 67 68
Sister and wife of Osiris “Wait a ___!” “Friends” female Community spirit Sans delay Honolulu keepsakes Bar order Dirty looks Volcanic outflows Lincoln Center production Highly flexible Use Twitter Source of fries “Enigma Variations” composer Edward Avenue crosser Aid partner Make a cardigan Public scenes Dispatch again “Once ___ a time ...” Roe source Sound system Scraps on the table Excuse that holds up Enclosed car Poker variety Dublin’s isle Withdraw by degrees Courtroom responses Auditory organ Run with the football Earth tone Density symbol, in mechanics Come to pass That LPGA player Nutmeg cover Public TV request Margaret Mead study venue Pertaining to the lungs, e.g. More than a scrape Actress Hathaway
© 2013 Universal Uclick
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Operating system Ungentlemanly gentleman Been happening Overly eager “Flash Gordon” villain ___ the Merciless Italian desserts Extended Exemplar of thinness Cruel person Practice piece for one instrument
85 86 90 91 92 93 94 96 97 98 99
“Fly away!” Academic session Beached Mix with a spoon Nerdish City on the Rio Grande Hazardous, travelwise Trash-talking Muppet? House work “___ Care of Business” (1974 hit) More strange
100 Bit of color 101 Jumper-cable target 102 Throw in the ___ (admit defeat) 103 Surrealist artist Max 105 Beasts of burden 106 Agenda 107 Tory’s opponent 108 Put on the wall 112 The woman 113 Server’s reward
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