07.31.15 PCTO

Plant City Times &

Observer YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

A PARTNERSHIP WITH

HIGH NOTE

PROFESSIONAL

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Go behind the scenes of ‘The Music Man.’

GEARTURNER

Eric Barber is no punk with his steam-style jewelry.

Find out where one Durant High alumnus is now.

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governance by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

HOMETOWN HERO by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

OUR TOWN

Bruton Library to update reading room The existing reading room will be closed off by a glass wall to make it quieter, and it will double as a conference room.

+ Times Observer wins awards

The final placements for the 2014 Florida Press Association Better Weekly Newspaper Contest awards have been announced.

The Plant City Times & Observer won 10 awards, five first places, as presented at a luncheon Friday, July 27, in Lake Mary. It was the first time the Plant City Times & Observer entered the contest. There were 1,600 entries from papers across Florida.

First, Sports Feature Picture, Justin Kline First, Sports Page or Section, Jessica Eng, Justin Kline First, Local Government Reporting, Michael Eng First, Feature Photo, Michael Eng First, Arts, Entertainment, & Review Reporting, Michael Eng Second, Feature Story: Profile, Amber Jurgensen Second, Best Obituary, Michael Eng Third, Sports Feature Story, Justin Kline Third, Informational Graphic, Jessica Eng Third, Agricultural & Environment, Amber Jurgensen

+ Free physicals to be offered

In conjunction with the Hillsborough County Back to School Coalition, South Florida Baptist Hospital’s Community Health Department will offer free back-to-school physicals from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Saturday, Aug.1, at Swindle Medical Arts Center, 1601 W. Timberlane Dr. Parents or legal guardians must accompany their children.

The free physicals are for Florida students in grades K to 12. Sports, Head Start and child care physicals are not available. Screenings include vision, blood pressure and height/weight.

To make an appointment for a physical, call (813) 443-3048.

, 3&

This week’s winner is

Allen Evers

See the photo on PAGE 15.

FREE • FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2015

Commissioners were briefed by City Manager Mike Herr at their July 27 meeting about a new reading room in Bruton Memorial Library.

The Library Board has unanimously agreed to repurpose the existing reading room at Bruton Memorial Library.

After seeing the secluded den made of glass walls at

Dunedin Public Library, the Library Board agreed that Bruton’s existing reading room should be made into a more private, quiet space that will double as a conference room and take advantage of the available space.

“What we would like to do is enclose that room,” Tonda

SEE BRUTON / PAGE 4

top lede by the Times & Observer staff

Courtesy photo

First Sergeant William “Billy” Riley will be retired from 25 years of active military service Aug. 31. He continues to volunteer with local programs in the Plant City community.

Service Doesn’t End First Sergeant William Riley will be retired from active military service on Aug. 31, but he still plans on serving the Plant City community.

First Sergeant William “Billy” Riley is on transitional leave from the Florida Army National Guard until Monday, Aug. 31, when he will be retiring from active duty after 25 years of service. Riley, who comes from a military family, is now preparing for his next career as

a reserve deputy sheriff for Hillsborough County.

Riley’s last day of active service with the National Guard was May 30. Since then, he has been working as a family readiness support assistant, responsible for helping unit commanders build family volunteer

programs. Family volunteers are required of every unit, and Riley believes that helping a soldier’s family in turn benefits the entire unit.

“The non-commission officer is the backbone of the Army,” Riley said. “The fam-

SEE HERO / PAGE 4

HOMETOWN HEROES

EDITOR’S NOTE: Hometown Heroes is a recurring feature in the Plant City Times & Observer in which we profile veterans from Plant City. If you have a loved one currently serving or who has served in the past, please contact Managing Editor Amber Jurgensen by email at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com or by phone at (813) 704-6850.

Amber Jurgensen

Bruce Faulmann, vice president of sales and marketing at the Tampa Bay Times; Karen Berry; and Felix Haynes, co-owner of the Plant City Times & Observer

Karen Berry joins Times & Observer as publisher

Berry is also the publisher of In the Field, a monthly agricultural magazine based in Plant City.

Karen Berry, owner and publisher of In The Field magazine, has been named publisher of the Plant City Times & Observer and joined

the ownership group of the 3-year-old weekly newspaper.

Berry, a native of Plant City, will serve as publisher and oversee the operations of both publications.

“I’m really excited about this opportunity to be involved in two publications that serve two communities that I love — the agricultural

SEE BERRY / PAGE 4

BUSINESS by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

Sunshine to expand, keep community feel The Plant City-based bank recently purchased branch offices in Bradenton and Sarasota.

On July 17, Sunshine Bancorp Inc., the parent company of Sunshine Bank, announced the purchase of two branch offices from First Federal Bank of Florida. The branches are located in Sarasota and Manatee counties.

A third branch belonging to

First Federal Bank of Florida will later be consolidated into the Sarasota and Manatee branches.

Sunshine Bank will also be purchasing real estate property and other assets belonging to the branches. It is expected that these purchases will be

completed in the fourth quarter of 2015.

According to Sunshine Bank President and CEO Andrew Samuel, the company is currently focused on growing in Florida and creating a community feel within all Sunshine Bank settings while

providing customers with premier technology and service.

The first bank belonging to the company was built in Plant City in 1954. Samuel took over as president late last year. The India native has lead

SEE SUNSHINE / PAGE 5

INDEX Calendar.......................2

Vol.2,No.45 | Onesection Crossword...................15

Obituaries...................10

Sports.........................12

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

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COMMUNITYCALENDAR

FRIDAY, JULY 31

Adult Summer Reading Program — ends Friday, 31, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. Patrons must turn in all punch cards by Friday.

Coupons for a free item in the Friends of the Library book store may be redeemed through Nov. 1. (813) 757-9217.

volunteers. For more information contact Robin Ingles at (813) 932-5228.

SATURDAY, AUG. 1 Acoustic Happy Hour — music takes place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 1, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818.

MONDAY, AUG. 3

Rick Mongaya Live! — takes place beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 31, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. (813) 7529100.

Back to School Physicals — takes place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 1, at the Swindle Medical Arts Center, 1601 W. Timberlane Drive.

Free physicals are being offered for children in kindergarten to 12th grade. Screenings include vision, blood pressure, and height and weight. Free immunizations are available for Medicaid or uninsured children. An immunization record is required to receive shots.

To make an appointment for a physical, call (813) 443-3048.

Seniors in Service — takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, July 31, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McClendon St. Seniors in Service of Tampa Bay Inc. manages volunteers to meet the challenges of the community with services that offer mentoring, tutoring and companionship through customized training, support and recognition of our

Elvis Festival — takes place from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 1, at the Florida Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds Expo Hall, 2301 W. Oak Ave. Enjoy an Elvis contest, shows, vendors, silent auction, food and special guests. $35 for VIP tickets; $30 for general tickets. For more information visit ElvisTampaTCB.com or call (813) 977-6011.

Girl’s Night Out — takes place from 5 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, July 31, in McCall Park in Historic Downtown Plant City. Enjoy shopping and raffles.

free individuals from all forms of addiction. Debbie Ray, (813) 763-1562.

Hoyt Hughes Band — music takes place beginning at 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 1, at Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill, 106 S.R. 60 E. (813) 737-4444.

Skip Frye Live! — takes place beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 1, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. (813) 7529100.

Charlie Hotel — music takes place beginning at 9 p.m. Friday, July 31, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818.

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

Celebrate Recovery — takes place beginning at 7 p.m.

Monday, Aug. 3, at Parkway Baptist Church, 4305 James L. Redman Parkway. A free recovery program for those struggling with addiction, depression, co-dependency, anger and grief. Contact Lauren at (813) 763-4355 for more information.

Family Game Zone — takes place from 3 to 4 p.m. Monday, Aug. 3, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. The whole family is invited to play board games. For children in elementary. (813) 757-9215 ext. 24.

TUESDAY, AUG. 4 Kiwanis Spelling Bee — takes place beginning at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 4, at the 1914 Plant City High School Community Center, 605 N.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 5 Plant City Creatives Meeting — takes place beginning at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 8, at The Corner Store, 121 E. Reynolds St. The group of artists, writers, designers, business owners and more will meet to discuss updates on planning an arts festival downtown. For more information email David at DavidG@ PlantCityMercantile.com.

BEST BET Family Festival — takes place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 1, at American Legion, 2207 W. Baker St. The festival is also pet friendly and includes crafts, a bounce house, pet rescue groups, pet vaccinations, vendors and food. Free parking and admission. The event will benefit Caribbean Spay Neuter projects. Facebook.com/events/1614445605453790/ or email SunshineCauses@gmail.com.

Collins St. Proceeds benefit the programs of the Kiwanis Club of Plant City.

Motion Commotion — takes place beginning at 10 a.m.

Tuesday, Aug 4, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. Children 18 months to 5 years old can shake to the rhythm during this 30-minute program. (813) 7579215 ext. 24.

Teen Game Zone — takes place

beginning at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 4, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. Enjoy games on Nintendo Wii, XBOX 360 Kinect and PlayStation. (813) 757-9215 ext. 24.

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

Tuesday, Aug. 4, at the Lorena Jaeb Rainbow House, 504 N. Palm Drive. It is a 12-step Bible-based program to help

Open Mic Night — takes place beginning at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub and Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818.

THURSDAY, AUG. 6 Babytime — takes place beginning at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 6, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. Bond with your baby through stories.

The 20 minute program is for children up to 18 months old.

(813) 757-9215 ext. 24.

Storytime — takes place beginning at 11 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 6, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. Stories will be read with action rhymes and interactive activities for children 18 months to 5 years old. (813) 757-9215 ext. 24.

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technology

Indu striou s indu strial b y Ab b y Baker

by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

3-D breast scans now available at SFBH

Staff Intern

Tomosynthesis allows radiologists to quickly determine or rule out abnormalities.

Art After Dark

ic “Art After Dark” features live mus er’s and art sales, including Eric Barb is steampunk creations. Admission 6 to free. The next event will be from 21.

Nov. .

10 p.m

IF YOU GO:

ART LOUNGE GALLERY

Upon first glance, 42-year-old artist Eric Barber doesn’t seem to be the kind of person who designs intricate necklaces. Over 6-foot-1, he tampers with gold and brass chains.

The metallic gears of artist Eric Barber’s vintage clocks don’t turn anymore, but that doesn’t mean they don’t still have purpose. Barber hunts through antique stores to look for the most unique clocks for his new line of jewelry.

He uses the gears and other bygone-era treasures, such as chandelier crystals and dresser pulls, to create pendants, rings and bracelets with a steampunk style. Steampunk is a genre of science fiction and fantasy that is inspired by 19th-century industrial steam-powered machinery. Barber uses Victorian elements in his designs, although there are other types of steampunk including medieval, western and modern.

Barber works and sells his jewelry at the Art Lounge Gallery on Reynolds Street in Historic Downtown. The forty-two year old started the endeavor just two months ago, but he is in no way unfamiliar with the art world.

“Ever since I was a kid, I was always doodling and painting

things,” Barber said.

Barber moved to Plant City from Delaware when he was 8 years old.

He attended Plant City High School and worked at J & G Jewelers when he was 19, after he graduated. There he picked up an interest in jewelry and constructing different types of ornaments.

Barber worked at J & G for 20 years before he took a job as a clerk at CSX. Up until seven years ago, Barber was on a break from his artwork.

He focused on competing in highland games, a competition in which individuals wear Scottish gear and celebrate the culture of Scotland. He throws heavy weights into the air.

He also began photographing other interests, from Florida wildlife to cathedrals.

“I started taking pictures to paint from,” Barber said. “And then I was told the photography was good enough.”

His photos and acrylic paintings hang near his jewelry in his section of the Art Lounge Gallery.

“I decided to mix several things that I’m interested in,” Barber said.

“I love antiques, so mixing the antiques with the jewelry just seemed natural.”

Growing up with his dad and stepmom, his childhood home

WHAT IS STEAMPUNK?

was full of antiques from the 1800s. Branching from this, Barber now collects dresser and door pulls, old clocks, and chandelier crystals, from the 1960s to the Victorian era. He finds them at yard sales, antique stores, thrifts shops and online deals. In doing this, he can sell the high quality jewelry for about $20 to $50.

“I think it’s great — repurposing these parts in a cool way,” Barber explained. “What are you going to do with a 100-year-old door pull besides this?”

The work in his collection varies from large deconstructed clock necklaces to delicate bracelets made out of old keyholes.

Barber lives with his wife, Tina, Barber and stepdaughter, Cynthia Wilson.

Barber and Cynthia designed a pendant with little strawberries inside.

He made also made his wife’s wedding ring and continues to construct pieces of jewelry for her.

WHERE: 119 E. Reynolds St. WHEN: Tuesdays through Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Bike & Car shows 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; evening hours by appointment.

INFO: The Art Lounge Gallery opened six years ago, in 2009. Initially it was a conversation among several companies in Plant City, but Eric Barber said the preliminary plans for the gallery were too expensive. Instead, a group of ten artists decided to run the gallery evenly, in a co-op. Only two of the original ten artists remain.

The gallery pays for its own bills, and all the money made off the artwork goes back to the artists themselves.

“I would like this to be a home for local artists,” Barber said. “I want it to be a place to grow,” Talented local artists are encouraged to submit artwork and patrons are encouraged to come to collect and learn.

Steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction or fantasy that is inspired by the industrial feel of steampowered machines. It could be described in a question: What would the past look like if the future had happened sooner? There are different types of steampunk. Steampunk is used in books, video games, movies and clothing. Examples of steampunk in modern mainstream movies are “The Golden Compass,” Sherlock Homes” and “The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen.”

South Florida Baptist Hospital is now offering a new type of mammogram technology that shows mammograms to patients in 3-D. The hospital is one of the facilities within the BayCare Health System that was scheduled to receive the new technology this year. It started offering the mammograms Tuesday, July 14.

The new screening technology is called tomosynthesis, a software program that makes it easier for radiologists to identify tissues and breast structures. The technology takes multiple images of the breast structure from different angles. Later, the images are put together to create a reproduction for the radiologist to examine. The technology can also detect the size of a lump, further helping radiologists.

“We now have even better technology available to help us find cancer earlier,” Debi Brightwell, imaging services manager, said. “With tomosynthesis we have the best chance possible to detect even the smallest area of concern.”

The software program was added to the existing scanners at the hospital, which previously saw scans in 2-D. Potential concerns that were found in the 2-D mammograms can be reviewed further in 3-D and treated appropriately.

This new technology also decreases patient waiting time, as patients no longer have to return to the hospital for future screenings and appointments related to potential concerns from the unclear 2-D scans.

It cost approximately $500,000 for the tomosynthesis software.

The price for the new software was originally part of the hospital’s budget for implementation in 2015.

“South Florida Baptist Hospital is continually evaluating and planning for implementation of new technology when the need in the community supports adding it,” Karen Kerr, hospital president, said. “In this case, it was a BayCare-wide purchase for the various outpatient centers through the system. Because our outpatient services are hospital based, the equipment was placed at the hospital.”

South Florida Baptist Hospital is hopeful that a newer, more accurate form of technology will encourage regular mammograms for women. According to breastcancer.org, approximately 1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer in their lifetime. However, if caught early through mammograms and other routine check-ups, there is a higher chance of survival.

In 2015, it is expected that almost 30% of detected cancers in women will be breast cancer. Breast cancer deaths in the United States began to decrease in 1989, and breast cancer rates began to decrease in 2000.

“South Florida Baptist Hospital is committed to the fight against breast cancer,” Brightwell said.

“With 3-D breast tomosynthesis digital mammography, we come to battle with an even better weapon against this disease.”

Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver.com.

PREVENTION TIPS

According to the Breast Cancer Fund, eating hormone-free meat and dairy can reduce the risk of breast cancer, as well as eating fresh or frozen vegetables instead of canned greens. Cooking with cast iron pots and pans instead of teflon can also help reduce your risk.

The website also encourages making changes outside of the kitchen. If you use a lot of cosmetics, cut down to only the ones that you use on a regular basis.

Avoid products with known carcinogens and some hair dyes. Visit BreastCancerFund.org for more tips.

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board] liked taking a project on that would have a good impact.”

There is no specified donor for the project yet, but a donor would have naming rights for the reading room. The library’s goal is to have a more flexible space. Morris and other Bruton employees are currently shifting furniture around in what will become the reading room, to improve the space that they have.

Morris, director of library operations at Bruton Memorial Library, said. “Everybody is very excited about it.”

The existing reading room does not have walls separating it from the rest of the library.

The Library Board wants to put in a glass wall that would go across the room to create a secluded room for people to read or work in peace. Being made of glass, the wall will ensure that plenty of light still flows into the room.

Because this glass wall is not in the city budget, the Library Board is currently seeking funding through donors, an effort that is spearheaded by both the Library Board and Friends of the Library.

“In libraries back before computers, they were typically quiet,” Morris said. “We’ve been trying to think of ways to meet the need for quiet space.”

The reading room will also be getting new paint, replaceable carpet squares, and furniture that is lightweight, portable and stackable, in addition to more power outlets.

Morris hopes that the reading room will also double as a conference room. The current large tables that are in the room will be exchanged for individual chairs with smaller tables.

Morris is currently receiving estimates for the project, but is unsure of a price or when the project will be completed. The current plans, Morris said, are just preliminary.

“The whole room will be updated,” she said. “It’s probably going to be a joint effort. [The

“

DEVELOPMENT

The commission unanimously agreed to change approximately 10.3 acres of land west of County Line Road and north of Rice Road from residential use to industrial use.

The land is located near other distribution centers and was found to be consistent with redevelopment strategies and economic growth.

The land was also incorporated into the County Line Road Planned Development District. The land was initially annexed on May 11, 2015.

“We are waiting for developers to submit permits,” Mayor Rick Lott said. “The property was placed together so (developers) can start development.”

Lott wouldn’t disclose who the developer is. At this time, the commission is unsure of the time frame for the permits.

The commission is hopeful that this development will create jobs by taking advantage of investments on County Line Road.

The commission also approved the utilization of the City’s Traditional Neighborhood Development standards

IN OTHER NEWS • The commission approved adopting a proposed millage rate of 4.7157, the same rate that is currently in effect for this year. Two hearings on adopting this rate will both be held in September, in addition to hearings on the proposed budget.

• The commission authorized two purchases. The first is for one Caterpillar 305E2 Cr Mini Hydraulic Excavator, purchased from Ring Corp.

The excavator will be used for projects dealing with infrastructure and preparing for new pipe installation. for the Varrea Planned Development District, 1,008.6 acres of land located north of Interstate 4. This will ensure that the nine neighborhood districts planned for the land will reflect a walkable, cohesive design.

Many residents spoke against the development at the commission meeting.

Dr. John Hatcher lives against the land that has been zoned for development. He is concerned about a potential buffer between his home and the new development.

Other residents are concerned about the number of homes that will be placed on one acre, and the road improvements that will be made to the streets that surround the new development.

Marsha Spivey, who lives near the area, is concerned the new development will destroy the animal habitats, specifical-

“

Although he will be retiring from active duty, Riley is still dedicated to his community.

“It’s not about you,” Riley said. “It’s about serving something greater than yourself. If you take and take … sooner or later, there will be nothing to take.”

Riley will be swearing back in as a reserve deputy sheriff with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office in August. This will be his second time serving.

During his active military service, Riley was a reserve deputy sheriff from May of 2002 to May of 2013.

“I’ve still got a lot to give,” he said. “I want to volunteer and I want to help our community.”

Riley noted that he admires the professionalism and high standards of the Hillsborough Community Sheriff’s Office.

In the meantime, Riley is continuing his work with family readiness groups.

“God gave us strength to make our community better,” he said. “You’ve got to do something to improve your community.”

At a recent speaking engagement at Tomlin Middle School,

Riley is not the first in his family to have served his country.

“Every male in my family has served in the military as far back as I can remember,” he said. “Every one has served in a combat zone. I joined as a patron. I never joined this as a job.”

Riley, who wanted to be in the military as early as 5 years old, is the only one in his family to have served in the National Guard. The rest of his family served in the Army and the Air Force. His grandfather was a Purple Heart Award recipient, and his father served in Vietnam. When Riley decided to join the National Guard, his father also swore in again on the same day.

Riley’s son, Coley, has contemplated joining the military in a special forces division, a decision that Riley fully supports.

“It’s kind of a family tradition. That is his decision right now,” he said. “I encourage it.

If I can’t support my kids, why would I let soldiers [serve]?”

This has caught the attention of his younger soldiers in the past. The younger members of his unit have become his other “kids.”

“They are heroes,” he said.

“They are warriors.”

Plant City Times & Observer is a 15,000-circulation free weekly; it also publishes PlantCityObserver.com.

Berry founded In the Field magazine in November 2004.

Since then, the publication has grown to two monthly editions, serving 70,000 readers primarily in Hillsborough and Polk counties. The magazine also has subscribers in Charlotte, DeSoto, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands and Okeechobee counties.

Prior to founding the magazine, Berry served as an advertising representative for the Tampa Tribune, Plant City Courier and Bradenton Herald.

“As one of the owners of the Plant City Times & Observer I am very excited about Karen

Berry joining the team as our publisher,” Felix Haynes said.

“She brings a rich background of journalism in daily, weekly and monthly publications. We look forward to her leadership in Plant City’s community newspaper.”

Berry started her career at the Bradenton Herald, working with Bruce Faulmann, currently vice president of sales and marketing at the Tampa Bay Times, and later working with Faulmann again at the Tampa Tribune.

Faulmann represents the Tampa Bay Times as one of the ownership partners of the Plant City Times & Observer.

Other owners include Verner, owner of City Properties and a director of Sunshine Bank;

Nate Kilton, owner and president of Sedita Kilton Life & Wealth Management LLC and Sedita Kilton & Co., Certified Public Accountants, and immediate past chairman of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce; Haynes, retired president of the Plant City campus of Hillsborough Community College; and Sarasotabased Observer Media Group, publisher of nine weekly newspapers in Florida.

Berry is the daughter of Plant City natives, Al and Patsy Berry. Al Berry owned and operated a Plant City radio station, WPLA, for more than 35 years and recently stepped down after serving as a director of the Florida Strawberry Festival for 43 years.

First Sergeant William “Billy” Riley

ily is the backbone of the soldier.”

HURRICANE CHASERS

At the age of 19, Riley received his first call with the National Guard for Hurricane Andrew.

“I had never seen anything like that in my life,” he said.

“When we go to those hurricanes … we provide security and humanitarian relief.”

The National Guard falls under Title 32 of the United States Code. The Constitution allows for these soldiers to carry weapons and enforce laws, since the soldiers are under the command of the state’s governor. Each state has a National Guard, and all answer to the president. The National Guard was formerly a strategic reserve, but became part of the operational reserves after Desert Storm in 1990.

After the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, the National Guard became an operational force that mobilized constantly.

Riley served as part of the 164th Air Defense Artillery Brigade in Orlando. After his 89-day service with Hurricane Andrew, he was also part of the unit that provided relief during Hurricanes Charlie, Ivan, Frances and Gene. His unit earned the nickname Hurricane Chasers. After the Sept. 11 attacks, he served with the Operation Safe Harbor unit in Ft. Lauderdale, responsible for airport security and keeping the ports protected for six months.

Riley was also part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In May of 2005, his battalion was mobilized. From Aug. 19, 2005 to Aug. 18, 2006, Riley served at Camp Virginia in Kuwait, fre-

BERRY / PAGE 1 community and all of Plant City,” Berry said. “I’m equally excited to be a part of a group of owners who are committed to publishing a newspaper for which all of Plant City can be proud.”

Said Ed Verner, Plant City businessman and one of the founding partners of the Plant City Times & Observer: “We are thrilled to have Karen join us and to be leading the Plant City Times & Observer. When we started this venture, our hope was to have a newspaper with strong, local content and deep, local roots. Karen brings those roots and the leadership skills we need to continue growing.”

Started in July 2012, the

ly those of gopher tortoises and sandhill cranes.

“I love Plant City,” she said.

“It’s beautiful out there.”

Katie LaBarr, a planner with Stantec, said that the goal of the development is to promote a traditional neighborhood design, economic diversity and a distinct sense of place. Stantec is the engineering firm contracted out by Varrea’s development company.

Despite the number of concerned residents at the meeting, the vote served only to change the name and approve the zoning of traditional neighborhood development standards. The site was initially annexed years ago.

“These are entitlements that have been in place a long time,” Commissioner Billy Keel said, noting that the hearing dealt more with bringing the plans into compliance.

Riley believes that his success in serving the military would not have been possible without the support of his wife, Heather Riley.

“I could not have done this without her,” he said. “Military spouses are the real heroes.”

Heather Riley was an agriculture teacher at Marshall Middle School before giving birth to Haley Riley, the family’s oldest child.

“She gave up her career to stay home and take care of our children so I could be a soldier,” Riley said. “Someone’s got to keep all of us straight at home, and that’s her.”

The couple’s oldest children, Haley, 16, and Coley, 13, are both involved with FFA. The Riley’s youngest daughter, Macey, 9, is involved with 4-H. Heather Riley, like her husband, is dedicated to helping the community. She does a lot of volunteer work with FFA alumni. She also runs Riley’s Rhinestones, a business that reaches its peak during pageant season.

“She’s smart, she’s nifty,” Riley said of his wife.

The couple has been married for 22 years and are members of First Baptist Church of Dover. Riley is chairman of the church’s personnel committee.

Riley is still looking for other volunteer opportunities in the community, especially ones that will keep children on the right path and focused on their goals. He is looking into becoming a JROTC instructor. He has received his certification and is currently awaiting an open position. The Plant City community has continued to inspire him to give back.

“Plant City is one of the strongest communities I have ever seen in my life,” Riley, who moved to Plant City at age 10 from Sylacauga, Alabama, said. “If you move to Plant City, you will be accepted. You will not be a stranger.”

Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver. com.

Local folks, they really rally toward the soldiers and their families. Plant City is one of the best communities in supporting soldiers.

HERO / PAGE 1

The new excavator will be replacing old equipment. The second approved purchase was for a Ford Transit 15-passenger van from Hub City Ford-Mercury Inc. The new van, which cost $29,599 dollars, was needed for replacing an old Chevrolet van that has needed costly repairs.

• The city approved a contract with Hydro Max USA LLC for the Water System Valve Maintenance and Repair program. The total cost for the program is limited to $43,197.50.

The maintenance of these valves is required by Florida Administrative Code.

quently making trips to Iraq.

Even now there are still units stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan, Riley said.

“There are people in harm’s way in a combat mode,” he said. “Families and soldiers need community support.”

Riley was grateful to be from a community that was supportive of soldiers and banded together.

“Local folks, they really rally toward the soldiers and their families,” Riley said. “Plant City is one of the best communities in supporting soldiers.”

CHANGING THE WORLD

Riley told students the importance of tearing down racial barriers, and that they were the generation who can make a difference. In a combat zone it was necessary to have your unit’s back, regardless of their ethnicity, race or culture, Riley said.

“Break down these barriers and change the world,” Riley said.

FAMILY TRADITION

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COPS CORNER PLANT CITY

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

JULY 17

FAKE IT ’TIL YOU MAKE IT

1900 block of James L. Redman Parkway. Counterfeit money. Complainant reported that a suspect attempted to use two counterfeit $100 bills at a business.

PLAYING WITH POWER

100 block of West Ball Street. Theft of electricity. Officers responded to an apartment complex in reference to a reported electricity theft. TECO investigators and police were able to locate the suspect, who was then arrested.

IDENTITY THIEF

400 block of Damon Street.

Grand theft. Officer responded to an apartment complex after a reported theft. Complainant said that someone stole her social security card, Florida driver’s license, credit cards and $5,000 in cash from her purse.

CAUGHT RED-HANDED

North Gordon Street/Robin Drive. Loitering and prowling.

Officers responded to the area in reference to a reported burglary in progress. They caught and arrested a juvenile suspect.

DOUBLE WHAMMY

2100 block of Johnson Loop.

Vehicle burglary. Officers responded to a reported vehicle burglary and found that two vehicles had been burglarized. A woman’s purse and a change purse were taken from the vehicles.

JULY 18

GUNS IN THE HOME

500 block of South Waters Street. Found property. Officers responded to an abandoned house in reference to a report of found firearms. The complainant, who stated that he often checks on the house because of vagrants, found two loaded, .22-caliber rifles

SUNSHINE / PAGE 1 other banks with his valuebased philosophy, including starting his own, Graystone Bank, which was acquired by Susquehanna Bank in 2012.

This value-based emphasis was something Sunshine Bank’s board members were looking for when they tapped Samuel after the immediate past president, Floyd Hall, retired in October 2014.

“We at Sunshine want to be known as great relationship builders that are backed with great technologies,” Samuel said.

When Samuel first started as Sunshine Bank’s president, his goal was to grow the bank by targeting areas in a onehour radius, while keeping its headquarters in Plant City.

Sunshine Bank is divided into regions, with each one headed by a regional president. Polk County regional president David Houston is a lifelong resident of the area, and Guy Michael, the Greater Orlando area president, is a longtime resident of Orlando. Bruce Carr, of the Hillsborough region, has been with banks in that area for the last 10 years.

Samuel believes that hav-

JULY 20

COSTA CROOK

400 block of North Plant Avenue.

Burglary/Theft.

Officers responded to a business in reference to damage and a reported theft. Complainant stated that, after damaging the front window, a suspect stole a display of 40 pairs of Costa Del Mar sunglasses, valued together at $10,360.

motorcycle sometime over the weekend.

NAPTIME NABBER

800 block of East Tomlin Street. Petit theft. Complainant stated that, during a 4 p.m. nap in his living room, a suspect entered his home and stole $70 in cash and a $150 pair of Maui Jim sunglasses. A man, whom the complainant only knew by his first name, was reported to have been there when he fell asleep and was gone with the items when he woke.

JULY 20

ASPIRING POOL SHARK

in the house. Officers were able to determine that the rifles were not listed as stolen and took them to PCPD for safekeeping as found property.

THAT WAS FAST

810 block of West Madison Street. Criminal mischief.

Officers responded to a residence following a report of potential burglary. Complainant stated that, sometime during the 30 minutes he was not home, someone broke the east window. Officers found no evidence to suggest that anyone had entered the home, and neighbors claimed not to have seen or heard anything. Complainant declined further police assistance and signed a waiver of prosecution.

JULY 19

TOOL THIEF

710 block of East Alsobrook Street. Vehicle burglary. Officers responded to a business following a reported vehicle burglary. Complainant stated that a suspect had broken into his Ford work truck and left with $1,100 worth of power tools.

GOING NOWHERE FAST

1400 block of Plantation Circle. Criminal mischief.

Complainant stated that someone cut the ignition wires in their 2004 Suzuki

700 block of Wilkins Avenue. Vehicle burglary. Officer responded to a residence following a report of vehicle burglary. Complainant stated a suspect stole two pool cues and a leather bag, valued together at $1,300, from the trunk of his vehicle. Each cue was valued at $600.

JULY 21

THAT’S EXCESSIVE

2800 block of Turkey Creek Road. Burglary/felony criminal mischief. Complainant reported that, overnight, a suspect entered a fenced-in area at a school and cut gas tank valves, releasing 6,000 gallons of propane gas. There were also paintings and other markings found on the walls in the school.

JULY 22

OFF THE RAILS

810 block of West Warren Street. Auto theft. Officers found a 1990 Honda Accord next to the railroad tracks at the 1300 block of West Ball Street. The vehicle appeared to have gone off the road while traveling at high speeds and was unoccupied when the officers found it.

After attempts to contact the owner were unsuccessful, the vehicle was impounded.

Later, the owner contacted PCPD to report the vehicle as being stolen from the residence during the night. They declined to press charges and signed a waiver of prosecution.

A NEW LOOK

In January, Sunshine Bank began the first of two redesign phases that introduced a new logo.

The first phase was to make the signs a vibrant blue and orange, in addition to having them better placed on the bank’s property. According to bank president and CEO Andrew Samuel, the signs changed to reflect the legacy and the future of the franchise.

On June 30, Community Sun and Bank changed its signs to fit the Sunshine Bank logo as a result of acquisition.

The two branches that were purchased in Sarasota and Bradenton will likely receive the new signage change in October, pending regulatory approval.

“It reflects where we’re headed,” Samuel said.

ing local leaders at each bank keeps the community focus and centralizes each county.

The new branch purchases in Sarasota and Bradenton from First Federal Bank of Florida will also have local leaders.

“Anything involving customers is localized,” Samuel said. “It’s knowing the market, knowing bank leaders and seeing them out and about. We are a community bank. Our management team is comfortable in a community setting.”

When customers make a visit to Sunshine Bank, they like that they can talk to someone who knows the area, Samuel said. The bank is focused on treating customers as people,

rather than a number.

Following the purchase of the branches in Sarasota and Manatee counties, which are expected to add approximately $56.4 million in deposits for a deposit premium of 1.80% and $8.3 million in loans at par value, the company will own ten branches and two loan offices throughout Florida. These offices are located throughout Sarasota, Orlando and Tampa. Sunshine Bank’s main office is located in Plant City, with other offices throughout Orange, Pasco and Polk counties.

Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver. com.

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FAR EAST by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

Courtesy photos

Asakusa is a popular district in Tokyo that features the Buddhist temple Senso-ji.

There were many fountains and statues in Tokyo.

The line was too long for Kendra Freeland to climb the Tokyo Sky Tree, but she did get to see it from the plane.

Taking Over Tokyo

PCHS graduate Kendra Freeland just returned from a five-week trip to Japan.

Like many other recent high school graduates, Kendra Freeland is getting ready to start her college career.

But this isn’t the first journey for the Plant City High School alumna since her graduation in early June. Freeland returned to Plant City on July 18 after a free, five-week trip in Japan — a trip that began as a joke over a year prior.

JOURNEY TO JAPAN

Over a year ago, Freeland was with her family celebrating her great-aunt’s 50th wedding anniversary in Indiana. Her cousin, Darin Voyles, was also there with his wife, Halima, a diplomat who has been in Tokyo for the last two years. During the trip, Freeland became close with the Voyles’ 2-yearold daughter, Alize. The Voyles’ joked that Freeland should come visit them in Japan.

Freeland didn’t take it too seriously until the Voyles’ later sent an email offering Freeland a free trip to Japan after her high school graduation.

Freeland could stay with them if she agreed to look after Alize and her older sister, Aliya, in the morning and explore Tokyo during the afternoon.

It was the trip of a lifetime, one that Freeland looked forward to all through her senior year of high school. By the time she left for the Land of the Rising Sun on June 12 she was more than ready to explore the country’s capital. She even created a blog.

Her first full day, however, didn’t go as planned. When Freeland decided to try Tokyo’s subway system, she was confronted by a homeless man who began screaming at her in Japanese.

“I was a little traumatized,” Freeland said.

She turned around to go back to the Voyles’ home, only to be almost hit by a cop car. The streets of Tokyo have no sidewalks, leaving pedestrians to walk in what would be considered a bike lane in the United States. Cars also park in these lanes, so pedestrians have to walk around the cars and end up in the street.

Freeland told the Voyles’ about her day of misadventures.

They assured her she would not have another bad one.

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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.

Emily Topper

Kendra Freeland kept a travel blog during her travels. Visit it at kendras-travels.blogspot.com “Tokyo is pretty much New York City, but it’s very clean,” Freeland said. “Homelessness is rare ... (Tokyo’s citizens are) very welcoming of foreigners because they’re used to foreigners.”

ASAKUSA AND SHINJUKU

Freeland was responsible for making sure the Voyles’ daughters, Alize and Aliya, completed their daily studies every morning. As she finished her nanny duties, she would explore.

While in Tokyo, she visisted Shinjuku, the city’s main technology district with stores packed wall-to-wall with inventory.

“It’s so easy to blow through money just so quickly there,” Freeland said.

In Japan, 10,000 yen is the equivalent to about $80. Avoiding the pricey technology of Shinjuku, Freeland chose instead to shop for handmade items in the wooden shops of Asakusa, a district of Tokyo that features the Buddhist temple Senso-ji.

“I liked that anywhere you looked you could always see the shrine,” Freeland said. “You have a more traditional feel.”

Freeland visited different shrines, where many Japanese people came to worship.

On one of her first visits to a shrine, a Japanese boy and his friends approached Freeland and showed her how to properly bow. At each shrine, the Japanese bow twice, then clap twice, followed by clapping and bowing once more at the same time. After they ring a bell to ask the gods for good luck and wash their hands with a ladle in a trough full of water.

“I never went to the same shrine twice,” Freeland said.

THE SHRINKING STOMACH

While in Tokyo, Freeland adjusted to the the Japanese diet.

A traditional meal consisted of rice, fish, soup, pickled ginger and a fried egg.

“I made myself try everything I was offered,” she said.

Freeland especially enjoyed Korean food in Japan.

She tried seafood pizza and cooked her own meal over coals at a restaurant in Asakusa. She traded soda for tea and water. Halima, taught her the proper procedure for drinking jasmine tea.

“I hated tea with a burning passion,” Freeland said. “[They] drink tea like Americans drink soda.”

Now Freeland carries around a bottle of tea with her. She feels healthier, and she has also bought a diffuser for her room to alleviate headaches.

TAKING FLIGHT

On one of her last days in Japan, the Voyles’ took Freeland on a plane ride, where she saw Tokyo from the air.

Now back on the ground in Plant City, Freeland is optimistic about future travels.

“I want to travel everywhere now. I want to do everything I can to take every abroad opportunity.”

Freeland begins classes at Polk State University Aug. 24.

She wants to study nursing and has not ruled out living abroad to practice medicine.

In the future, Freeland hoapes to visit both Germany and Greece .

“I want to go now,” Freeland said of future travels. “Everyone should get out of Plant City and go do something, just experience something else.”

Plant City Times &

Observer

Publisher / Karen Berry, kdberry@inthefieldmagazine.com General Manager/Executive Editor / Michael Eng, meng@PlantCityObserver.com General Manager/Advertising / Stacey Hudson, shudson@tampabay.com Managing Editor / Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@PlantCityObserver.com Staff Writers / Justin Kline, jkline@PlantCityObserver.com; Emily Topper, etopper@ PlantCityObserver.com Advertising Executive / Nikki McAlpine, nmcalpine@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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agriculture appreciation by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

Meet the Salute to Agriculture Winners The winners are not only dedicated to the field of agriculture but to the Plant City Community.

The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Agri-Business Committee recently announced this year’s agriculture award winners. Each year, the five awards are given to members of the community who have exemplified themselves in the agricultural field through their career, education and volunteer work.

“It is for people who are not only successful in what they do, but what they do in addition to that,” Debbie Simpson of Farm Credit said. “It’s the way they work, what they’ve done to improve agriculture for the good of the world.”

A contact breakfast will be held honoring the winners Wednesday, Aug. 12.

Hugh Gramling, Gramling Nursery Bill Glisson is the owner of The Hay Exchange. Bill’s son, Dillon Glisson, and Bill’s brother, Michael Glisson, both work at the family business.

Courtesy photos

Michael Lopez, Southside

Ken and Karen Grimmer are Florida Strawberry Festival volunteers.

to his work in the agricultural field, including being named an Outstanding Agriculturist in 1984 by the Florida Association of Agricultural Agents. Gramling served as the chair for the Hillsborough County Soil and Water Conservation District for 10 years, chair and vice-chair of the Hillsborough County Agricultural Economic Development Council and served as a member on the Hillsborough River Basin Board.

Young Agriculturist of the Year: Michael C. Lopez

Michael Lopez is the owner and general manager of Southside Western & Outdoor Wear.

The company sells a variety of boots and jeans, as well as fencing supplies, animal health supplies and feed for horses and cows.

Lopez frequently makes

house calls for kids who show animals and helps them with their feed programs. Lopez got his start in agriculture in middle school, when he became involved with Future Farmers of America and had cows of his own at home. Lopez later attended the University of Florida, where he received his degree in food and resource economics from the College of Agriculture.

Lopez has served as the past president of FFA Alumni and is currently the treasurer. He also serves on the swine committee at the Florida Strawberry Festival.

“Plant City has a small town, country feel,” Lopez said. “Everybody still kind of has [agriculture] in their blood.”

Lopez said that he could think of a number of other people who were also worthy

WHEN: 7:15 a.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 12 WHERE: Expo Building at the Florida Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds, 2301 W. Oak Ave. COST: $15 RESERVATIONS: Call the chamber at (813) 754-3707 RSVP: By 4:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7 paring the next generation of Glissons for management of the company.

“We’ve got a tremendous crew here,” Michael Glisson said. “I’m very proud of the team.”

Agri-Business of the Year: Supporter of Youth in Agriculture: William K. The Hay Exchange From its inception in 1995, and Karen J. Grimmer

Emily Topper

Agriculturist of the Year: Hugh M. Gramling

Hugh Gramling received his degree in journalism from the University of Florida in 1969. In 1973, he became the owner and manager of Gramling Nursery Inc., a wholesale plant nursery, until 1997.

In 1994, Gramling became the owner and manager of Horticultural Products, another wholesale plant nursery, before becoming the executive director of the Tampa Bay Wholesale Growers in 1997.

Gramling stayed in the agricultural field until his retirement three years ago. He loves the people in the agricultural community.

“The people are phenomenal,” Gramling said. “There’s kind of a common bond that you have with them.”

Gramling was honored to win Agriculturist of the Year, especially since he has previously served on the committee that selects the winners.

“I’m very humbled and honored to win,” he said. “It’s a very prestigious award. It’s just really an unusual and thrilling experience.”

Gramling has also won a number of other awards related

third-graders, Whitson also helped to start the Ag-Abilities program for special needs students who are unable to participate in the traditional FFA events. The program is now found in nine Hillsborough County schools.

“It’s very rewarding,” Whitson said. “There’s just so many wonderful people in the agricultural community.

“I was just amazed,” she said about winning the award.

IF YOU GO

Judi Whitson has been involved with bringing agricultural education to Hillsborough County schools.

of the award.

“It’s kind of overwhelming,” he said. “I wasn’t really expecting it. I do what I do because I love it.”

Ag Educator of the Year: Judi Whitson

Judi Whitson started with the Farm Bureau in 1981. Today, she is the executive director of the Hillsborough County Farm Bureau Federation. She has been with Florida Agriculture in the Classroom since its inception. Programming is now taught to 7,200 third-graders in Hillsborough County.

“I educate third graders to legislators,” Whitson said.

She is also responsible for bringing awareness of the need for agriculture and helping them understand the impact of agriculture in the community.

In addition to her work with

The Hay Exchange has grown from a hay wholesale business into a lifestyle operation that focuses on selling quality products at a fair price. At first, the company was only operated by owner Bill Glisson and Frank Narvaez, but has since grown to almost 30 employees.

Michael Glisson joined his brother’s efforts two years ago.

Michael Glisson is proud of the company’s personal service and having a company that has grown through integrity.

“We have found that our business has grown through building trust,” Michael Glisson said. “We get to know their family, we get to know their pets.”

The Hay Exchange specializes in selling quality equine feed, as well as halters, saddles and other food and accessories for almost all animals.

The company, in addition to caring for customers and their animals, is involved with a number of organizations, including South Florida Baptist Hospital, food drives, toy drives, the Plant City Chamber of Commerce, Pig Jam and the Florida Strawberry Festival. At the festival, The Hay Exchange offers an opportunity for kids who purchase their feed to win a cash prize. The company is continuing to expand and expects to break ground on a new building within the next three to four months, as well as pre-

Ken and Karen Grimmer are heavily involved with helping youth at the Florida Strawberry Festival. The couples serves on the steer committee, and Karen Grimmer also helps with the festival’s record-keeping and on the agricultural committee. The couple also raises cattle.

While volunteering at the festival, the Grimmers noticed that some kids needed more practice than others. They began working with neighborhood kids and helped them practice showing steers on Sunday afternoons, a tradition that continued for over a decade.

“We enjoyed it a lot,” Karen Grimmer said. “It’s important to us to give back to our community, because that’s what makes our community grow.

“If one student comes back every year into the agricultural community, our volunteer time was 100% important,” Grimmer said. “No one asked us to do it. We did it because we wanted to.”

The couple acknowledges that supporting the agricultural community takes an army.

They work closely with Stephanie Brower, Pam Walden, Pam Warnock, Leslie and Don Poppell, Bill McClellan, Jim Jeffries and a number of other instrumental individuals.

“It takes a lot of help,” Grimmer said. “We haven’t done it to win an award.”

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ENTERTAINMENT by Emily Topper | Staff Writer

AroundTOWN “What is your favorite thing about summer?”

Chandara Chea, 19 “Going to the beach.”

Kari Shepherd, 44 “Relaxing and escaping.”

Naomi Daniels, 23 “Sleeping in.”

John Bell, 71 “ I like the Fourth of July,”

Mitch Messer, 77 “I don’t like the cold, and I can swim with my granddaughter.”

Kasey Traylor, 19 “The sunshine. I love summer because it’s hot and relaxing.”

The entire cast went on stage before the July 24 performance.

Behind the scenes of ‘The Music Man’ Plant City Entertainment put on the production of “The Music Man” two weekends in July, directed by Tyler Hollis.

“The Music Man” was originally a book that sparked into a movie production in 1962.

It stars con man Harold Hill,

Darius Donaldson-Dunphy

who sells expensive band instruments and uniforms to a small town. He convinces everyone he is a music teacher with the intent to produce a superb marching band, and then plans to hightail it out of town with the money.

Right: The cast and crew sang show tunes while they got into character before the performance.

Actors of all ages participated.

Elijah Zurek played Winthrop.

Many of the kids were part of the ensemble.

CUTESTCRITTER

S

assy Girl is a 3-year-old Russian blue Siamese.

She loves playing in the sink while you take a bath.

She is very curious and loves playing with anything that makes noise, especially keys.

Turkey Creek Animal Hospital and Animal Wellness Center have partnered to present a weekly Cutest Critter Contest.

Entering is simple: Just submit a high-resolution photo (200 dpi or better) and a sentence or two about why your pet is the cutest. Include your name and contact information. Winners will be showcased in the Plant City Times & Observer and will receive a free bag of dental chews to be picked up at Turkey Creek Animal Hospital and Animal Wellness Center.

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

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OBSERVER

OBITUARIES

LeVaughn Amerson

LeVaughn Amerson, 75, of Plant City, died July 22, 2015 at Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa.

Mr. Amerson was the son of the late Herbert and Beety Miley Amerson. He was a produce broker and partner in Akin-Porter Produce, and a member and pastor with Baptist Purity Church.

Mr. Amerson is survived by his wife, Linda Young Amerson; son, Tommy Hubble (Christa); sister, Miriam Byrd; brother, Orvis Amerson; and grandson, Chase Hubble.

He was preceded in death by his son, Terry Amerson.

A visitation was held Friday, July 24, at Haught Funeral Home Chapel. A funeral service was held Saturday, July 25, in Salem, Florida at Baptist Purity Church and Cemetery.

Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

Frank Martin Bell

Frank Bell, 92, of Plant City, died Sunday, July 19, 2015 at Community Care Center.

A native of Monticello, Kentucky, he was the son of Cosby and Lula Gregory Bell. He was a member of First Thonotosassa Missionary Baptist Church.

Mr. Bell is survived by two daughters; one sister; six grandchildren; and 12 greatgrandchildren.

Funeral services were held July 23 at Antioch Cemetery in Thonotosassa.

Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

William Buttram

William “Kent” Buttram, 90, of Dover, died July 23, 2015 in Temple Terrace.

Mr. Buttram was a United States Army WWII Calvary veteran and a member of East Thonotosassa Baptist Church.

He is survived by his daughter, Peggy Moore Harrell; brothers, J.C. Buttram, of Atlanta, Gerald Buttram (Betty), of Tampa, Phillip Buttram (Marie), of Plant City, and George Buttram (Phyllis), of Valrico; sisters, Ellen Campbell, Ima Jean Jacobs, Alma Copher (Bob), Era Mae Walding (Steve); grandchildren, Perry Buttram (Debra), Terry Moore, Ronnie Moore, Amey Grantham (Wes); 16 greatgrandchildren; and 15 greatgreat-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his wife, Elsie O. Buttram; son,William Michael Buttram; daughter, Cynthia Alice Buttram; and grandson, Chris Moore.

A visitation was held at Wells Memorial and Event Center July 27. A funeral service was held at East Thonotosassa Baptist Church July 28. A burial followed at Sunset Memory Gardens.

Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial. com.

Jewell P. Cannon

Jewell P. Cannon, 91, of Plant City, died July 27, 2015 at her home.

A native of Oclocknee, Georgia, she was the daughter of the late Ira and Mary Cumbie Page.

Mrs. Cannon was a member of Oakwood Baptist

Church and had worked for Keysville Lumber and Ross of Florida.

Surviving are son, C.D. Cannon Jr.; daughters, Fay Burleson (Robert), Sue Wilkins (Mike), Kay Cannon; eight grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Cecil Cannon Sr.; and daughter, Jacqueline Cannon.

The family would like to thank Mrs. Cannon’s caregivers, Beth, Margie and Tony.

Funeral Services will be 11a.m., Friday, July 31, at First Assembly of God, 602 Charlie Griffin Road, Plant City. A visitation was held Thursday, July 30, at Haught Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

Robert Glen Dukes

Robert Glen Dukes, 64, of Plant City, died July 21, 2015.

Mr. Dukes spent a lot of time serving the community, helping staff and patients at Community Care, and volunteering at the Strawberry Festival. His home for the last 13 years was Jacaranda Manor.

He is survived by two sisters, Sherry L. Willis (Michael) and Rebecca “Becky” Richey; aunt, Alice Lampp; nieces, Michelle Tears (Shawn) and Dr. Crystal D. Willis; nephew, Christopher Richey (Ashley); great-nieces, Reagan Tears and Avery Richey; and greatnephews, Kyle Tears and Evertt Richey.

A funeral service was held July 27 at Wells Memorial and Event Center in Plant City. A

burial followed at Mt. Enon Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in his honor.

Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial. com.

Karen Wilson Hamade

Karen “Sophie Elle” Wilson Hamade, 59, of Valrico, died July 16, 2015.

Mrs. Hamade retired after 31 years of service as a senior valuator with the Hillsborough County Property Appraisal Office. She attended Unity Church of Brandon, and she was a member of the Brandon Boardgamers and Brandon Writers’ Group. She was an awesome mother, and she enjoyed writing, photography, playing board games and creating memes.

She is survived by her sons, Bryan Hamade (finacee Veronica Williams), and Cameron C. Hamade; husband of 29 years, Zouheir “Z” Hamade; brothers, Stanley Wilson (Vickie) and Troy Wilson (Betty); and dogs, Max and Kix. A celebration of life was held July 21 at Hopewell Funeral Home. Committal followed at Hopewell Memorial Gardens.

Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral. com.

Norberto “Bob” Hernandez

Norberto “Bob” Hernandez, 90, of Plant City, died July 20, 2015.

Mr. Hernandez was a career United States Army serviceman, having served his country in WWII, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. He and his wife of 65 years, Della, moved to Plant City in 1996. He loved spending time with family, was an avid golfer and also enjoyed all sports activities.

He is survived by his wife, Della; children, Tony, Robert, Edna and Marcella; and nu-

merous grandchildren.

The family received friends on Friday, July 24, at Hopewell Funeral home. A graveside service with military honors will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, August 12, at Fort Sam National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital, 13000 Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33612.

Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.

Bea Jackson

Bea Jackson, 89, of Plant City, died July 20, 2015.

Mrs. Jackson was born in Russell, Arkansas. She enjoyed gardening and her grandchildren, whom she loved very much.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Jackson.

She is survived by her son, Homer Jackson (Jan); daughter, Barbara Jackson; sister, Pauline Lemons; grandchildren, Greg, Sherri and Jamie Jackson, Brandie Palmer and Tyler Devane; and greatgrandchildren, Josh, Kaden, Avery, Caleb and Colby.

Visitation was held July 22 at Wells Memorial and Event Center. A funeral service followed July 23. Burial was at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Online condolences may be made at WellsMemorial. com.

Jack Edwin Jacobsen Jr.

Jack Edwin “Jack E.” Jacobsen Jr., of Plant City, died July 4, 2015 in North Carolina.

He is survived by his mother, Druann Brock; brother, Jeff Jacobsen (Angela); nieces, Jessica and Shelby; nephews, Jeff Jr. (Kelsey), Josh (Jasmine), Jarrett and Joseph.

He was predeceded in death by his father.

A celebration of life will be held at 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 31, at Haught Funeral Home.

The family will receive friends beginning at 6:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Jack E.’s name to Plant City Little League, 302 W. Reynolds St., P.O. Box C, Plant City, FL, 33563.

Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome.com.

Thomas Stephen O’Toole

Thomas “Tom” Stephen O’Toole, 69, of Plant City, died July 23, 2015.

Mr. O’Toole was born in Brooklyn, New York in 1946.

He was a veteran of the United States Navy, having served aboard the USS Wasp in the Vietnam War. He loved his family, and he enjoyed golfing and boating.

He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Diane Davis O’Toole; sons, Sean S. O’Toole (Kari), of New York, Ryan T. O’Toole (Alexandra), of Georgia, Ty S. O’Toole (Jessica), of Leesburg and Shannon L. O’Toole (Meghan), of Georgia; sister, Marguerite “Marge” Johnson (Brad), of North Carolina; siblings-inlaws, Tommy Davis (Diane), of Homosassa Springs, Lula Hudson, of Tennessee and Patricia Benjamin, of Spring Hill; grandchildren, Sean Jr., Brenden, Kassidy, Kayle, Ellie and Llayton; great-grandchildren, Kayleigh and Sean III; step-grandchildren, Lily and Peyton; dogs, Tiger and Mackie; 61 nieces and nephews; and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his son, Thomas A. O’Toole; siblings, Joan C. Turner (Raymond Grohosky) and Theodore C. Benjamin; and nephew Dennis J. Grohosky.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 1, at Hopewell Funeral Home, where the family will receive friends beginning at 10 a.m.

Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.

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unite the tribes by Jose Lozoya | Staff Intern

Interdenominational church planned for 2016

Plant City native Scott McIntosh is the lead pastor of City Pointe Church, which will open next January.

A team is coming together under the leadership of Plant City native Scott McIntosh to plan a contemporary interdenominational church in the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World.

About 50 people meet every fourth Sunday of the month to prepare for City Pointe Church’s launch in January 2016 and to grow the congregation.

“My calling from god was to unite the tribes, or the people in Plant City,” McIntosh said.

McIntosh grew up in Plant City and attended Plant City’s First Baptist Church with his family. He accepted the call of ministry when he was 20 years old and served at a variety of churches in numerous roles.

Being at several different churches over the years taught McIntosh many different lessons. When it came time to open his own church he knew what his mission was: he always realized the amount of separation in Plant City, its churches and its people, and he felt it was time for a change.

“Plant City has a lot of churches,” McIntosh said. “In fact, Plant City doesn’t need another church, it needs another kind of church — a church that redefines what church is. Plant City needs a contemporary interdenominational church that goes after the lost, the prodigal, and the people that love them — a place where God’s chil-

Courtesy photo

Rev. Scott and Elizabeth McIntosh want to redefine church in Plant City. dren are united, rather than be divided by race, denomination and economic status.”

He reached out to the Association of Related Churches in hopes of getting help opening a Church in Plant City. The ARC is an organization which shows individuals or groups how to build a launch team, raise funds, form a worship team, develop a children’s ministry and gain momentum, according to its website. It also helps churches financially. City Pointe Church will be the first church in Plant City under the ARC. Although there is still much to be done during the planning stages, McIntosh’s team

GET INVOLVED

If you are interested in being a part of team meetings register at CityPointeChurch.com.

Meetings are every fourth Sunday of the month.

does have a start date. On Jan. 31, 2016 the first service will be held at the John R. Trinkle Center on the Hillsborough Community College Plant City Campus off Park Road.

The services will continue every Sunday at the Trinkle Center and is open to the residents in Plant City and surrounding cities.

MY VIEW

Faith Matters: Summertime Summer has finally arrived. — sun, fun, pool, beach, heat, We’ve been having those “dog humidity, more heat and days” and those “lazy, hazy, more humidity, an afternoon crazy days of summer,” and thunderstorm or two, and it’s only July. Plans are being there you have it — life in made or have already Florida. been made by many As much as things of us for our sumchange, things stay the mer getaway. Many, same. The services of I’m sure, are lookGod’s house continue ing forward to that to be held regularly in long overdue R & R or our community and some escape from the ministry continues to heat and humidity. be done day in and day For some, this vacaout in our community tion season will mean The Rev. Dean R. even during these dog PFEFFER days of summer. spending time with family and friends, Just because it’s many of whom you may not summer, doesn’t mean the have seen for quite some church is on vacation. It time. But then again, there would truly be a sad and dark are those who don’t travel day if the church took a vacaanyplace during June, July or tion. It would be even sadder August and remain right here and darker if our loving Lord in Plant City. took a vacation.

Life, as we know it, seems But the church doesn’t — to come to a sudden stop and guess what — our God as soon as those final redoesn’t either. port cards come home. The Sorry folks, we don’t take a “normal” routines with which vacation from our worship, we were so accustomed get praise, prayer or stewardship. tossed out the window and These continue all year. the money just doesn’t seem Think about it, when was to go as far as it did when the the last time God took a vacakids were in school. tion from providing for your Then, add to this the “adneeds? When was the last vantage” of living in Florida time Christ took a vacation

from giving you forgiveness?

When was the last time the Holy Spirit took a vacation from the comfort only He can bring? If you answered never (as I’m sure you did), why should we take a vacation from Him who loves us and gave His life for us? Since our Lord doesn’t take a break from caring for us, the prize of His creation, that should compel us all the more to live for Him during these summer months.

I encourage you, if you travel to new and different places this summer, or travel to some of the old places you’ve been before, take the time to worship Your Lord. I encourage you, take the Lord with you as you go, don’t leave Him behind. Remember His promise to you, “I am with you always to the very end of the age.”

So don’t let your praise and worship take a vacation.

May God richly bless your summer — and may your summer be spent in the SON! The Rev. Dean R. Pfeffer is the senior pastor at Hope Lutheran Church, Plant City.

For more, email him at hopepcpastor@gmail.com.

Sports

YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | COMMUNITY

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Alex Machado helped lead his All-Star team to the top. 14 SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM

FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2015

PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

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

FOOTBALL

+ Marshall High football team to attend reunion

On Saturday, August 8, one of the best football teams in Plant City’s history will bring the band back together.

The Marshall High School Class of 1965’s 50-year reunion will be held at Veterans’ Memorial Monument Park and the football team, coaches, cheerleaders and band members plan to attend.

The 1964-65 Marshall football team went 9-0, outscoring opponents 367-13 and posting seven shutout victories.

For more information, contact Lawrence Keys at (813) 842-9162.

+ Buddy Bowl funds to go to Bennett Fund

The Plant City Dolphins have announced that funds from the Buddy Bowl will go to the Buddy Bennett Fund.

The Buddy Bennett Fund will help expand and improve the chemotherapy center at South Florida Baptist Hospital, which is set to be renamed for Bennett. Last week’s Plant City Times & Observer reported that funds raised at the Buddy Bowl would benefit the Dolphins organization.

the game to win by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

STILL CHOPPING Plant City High graduate Russell Kemp is nothing but confident in his chances to win his battle against stage IV liver cancer.

There’s a saying among sports circles usually reserved for the most dominant athletes: You can’t stop him — you can only hope to contain him.

As far as Russell Kemp is concerned, cancer might have him contained right now, but it won’t beat him.

Kemp, a recent Plant City High graduate, was diagnosed with stage IV liver cancer on March 1. His particular diagnosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, is usually found among people age 50 to 70. But if there’s anything his Raiders football ca-

reer has prepared him for, it’s standing strong in front of the toughest battles.

BAD BREAK

Earlier this year, things seemed pretty normal for Kemp and his family. He was dealing with a torn meniscus, but his doctors hadn’t found anything cancerous in the area. He only found out that he has the disease when horsing around with his brother, Tyler, didn’t go as planned.

“I was having a slight argument with my brother, and he

gave me a little shove, so I took a step back, and when I took a step back I felt multiple pops in my knee,” Kemp says. “That was actually my hip fracturing.

I went to Tampa General.”

One X-ray revealed two hip fractures — and a tumor.

The tumor had eaten away at his hip.

Doctors did a biopsy of it and found that it was liver cancer.

Because the tumors had spread from Kemp’s liver to his hip, he was given a stage IV diagnosis. Somehow, however, the cancer had not actually at-

Courtesy photo

Russell Kemp played football at Plant City High School. He graduated this year. tacked his liver. It was still functioning normally, which would explain why it went undetected for so long.

Hepatocellular cancer, the Kemp family later learned, is extremely rare among young people. According to cancer. org, the average age at diagno-

baseball by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

Where are they now?

RYAN RABURN

+ PCHS camp canceled

Plant City High School’s football camp was cancelled because of excessive rain.

Head coach Greg Meyer said that the goal is to hold the camp at a later date.

For updates, follow the @ PCTOSports Twitter account or the school’s @Raider_ Football account.

WRESTLING

+ Rainford signs with Trojans

Strawberry Crest two-sport athlete Farron Rainford signed his letter of intent Monday, July 27, to wrestle for Hannibal-LaGrange University Rainford, who played both football and wrestling throughout his high school career, signed with coaches C.J. Gittens and Will Terry, along with family and friends, in tow. He will attend in the fall.

Hannibal-LaGrange, located in Hannibal, Missouri, is a four-year Christian university. Its enrollment total in 2010 was 1,191, though current data is not available.

TENNIS

+ Round Robin to be held

The Recreation & Parks Department announced the date for its Junior Round Robin. The event will be Saturday, Aug. 29, at the Plant City Tennis Center, 120 N. Wilder Road.

Round Robin is open to all beginner and intermediate junior league players planning on signing up for junior league. Kids ages 8 to 14 will enjoy court time, pizza and drinks. It is $5 to participate. Contact C. Shane Johnson at (813) 707-7486.

Ryan Raburn, 34, is in his ninth full season in Major League Baseball.

Durant High alumnus and current Cleveland Indian Ryan Raburn has rebounded from injury and gotten off to one of the best starts of his career in 2015.

When athletes come back from injury, there’s always speculation about if they’ll be the same or not. For most professional athletes over 30, the stories can start to look more like career eulogies.

But there’s also 34-year-old Ryan Raburn, coming off of a season-ending knee injury, playing some of the best ball of his Major League Baseball career.

Raburn, a Durant High School graduate, damaged his meniscus in September 2014 and had season-ending

BY THE NUMBERS

surgery, which stuck him with some of the worst stats of his nine-year career.

For 2015, he wanted to prove that he could not only come back to the lineup but also be effective again.

“This year, my main goal is to stay healthy and finish up strong,” Raburn says. “This is probably the best start I’ve had to a year, pretty much ever. If I could stay healthy and everything, I know things will go my way. I’ll do whatever I can to be a part of this team and help the club win.”

AT DURANT

Although Raburn started his high school career at East Bay High, in Gibsonton, he found himself at Durant for his junior and senior years, 1998 and 1999. He played well enough for the Cougars in his two seasons with the team to have his jersey number retired. It’s immortalized in a painting on the Cougars’ clubhouse.

Although he can’t single out one favorite game, play or moment from his Durant days — his memory’s a little fuzzy

Courtesy photo

— Raburn says that the experience of playing with some familiar faces made those days enjoyable.

“A lot of it was a lot of the guys I played with,” Raburn says. “A lot of those guys, I played with in (Little League).

Growing up, playing each other and then being on the same team, spending more time with them and getting to know them better.”

When he’s living with his family in his offseason home in Wimauma, Raburn makes an effort to drive to Durant to work with the kids. He hasn’t been out there to work in some time, as last year’s physical rehab took up much

SEE RABURN / PAGE 13

2014: 74 games; 39 H; 4 HR; 22 RBI; .200 BA; .250 OBP; .297 SLG; .547 OPS 2015: 64 games; 36 H; 4 HR; 22 RBI; .271 BA; .355 OBP; .474 SLG; .829 OPS

sis of liver cancer is 63. More than 95% of people diagnosed with liver cancer are 45 years of age or older. About 3% are between 35 and 44 years of age and about 2% are younger than 35.

SEE KEMP / PAGE 13

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

We all have a sports influence I don’t think any sports fan can say that he or she became a fan on their own.

There’s always some influential figure in our lives who’s responsible for passing the sports bug onto us — be it a parent, coach, teacher, friend or whatever the case may be.

I’ve written in the past about the influence my dad had when I was growing up, but there’s more to the story than that. If my dad is responsible for getting me into baseball, as well as putting a tennis racket JUSTIN in my hand and KLINE briefly helping me out on the wrestling mat, there were others who are responsible for pretty much everything else.

When I lived in Buffalo, I did grow up enjoying the Bills and Sabres. But it wasn’t until I moved to another part of town at 8 years old that I learned more about other sports, and also when I started to see football as something more than what I should be into because my dad liked it.

Among the many wonderful things my best friend Jordan’s family has done for me, one of the most low-key important things was opening my eyes to the sports world. His dad has always been a big football guy, balancing the Bills and Notre Dame pretty equally in the house, but it’s his older brother, Shane, who I consider most responsible.

Jordan was always more into video games and cinema than sports, and is now a film critic at a Buffalo-based weekly publication. But when I didn’t feel like playing video games, or whatever else we were doing, I would go watch sports with Shane. I didn’t always know what was going on, but I eventually started picking up on it.

Whenever I played sports around the neighborhood, which happened every so often, it was with Shane, among others. It was usually shooting the basketball around in the family’s driveway, but we did branch out to football, and at least one time we played baseball with tennis rackets because we all realized how far we could hit them.

Basketball was always his favorite, even though he tried just about everything he could. Possibly the only

SEE KLINE / PAGE 14

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CAMPERS FIGHT FOR THEIR RIGHT TO PARTY

RABURN / PAGE 12 of his time, but he plans to be out there with the Cougars as soon as he can this year. “It’s kind of cool seeing what’s different from when you were in high school,�

Raburn says. “They have a little better facilities than when I played there. Coach (Butch) Valdes has done a lot for the team and the school. They’ve done a heck of a job. It’s awesome to see how the facilities have come around.�

COMEBACK SEASON Justin Kline

Chris Welbon’s annual summer camp finished its second of two summer sessions this month, and the weather didn’t stop the campers from having fun.

In addition to spending time learning in the dojo, the kids were able to explore town, including having a Thursday bowling party to pass the time before playing Battlefield Swords in the dojo.

KEMP / PAGE 12 Kemp’s liver tumor eventually grew just over two centimeters, which rendered Kemp unable to keep food down. The cancer had also spread to his tailbone.

To ďŹ ght the disease, doctors have had to resort to aggressive chemotherapy treatment: something that, unlike most patients with this disease, Kemp is young and healthy enough to endure.

And he’s ready for anything. “Since the day they diagnosed me, I said it’s not a big deal,� Kemp says. “I’m gonna beat it.�

SUPPORT SYSTEM

In April, before Kemp graduated, the Plant City High football team hosted a fundraiser

TREATMENT Russell Kemp’s chemotherapy treatments are more aggressive than most because of the advanced nature of his cancer.

After four days of chemo every three weeks, Kemp gets a white blood cell shot to boost his immune system.

Because he can’t get the shot on the same day as his chemotherapy treatments, he has to wait around 27 hours to get the injection. Chemo treatments are preceded by one hour of hydration, after which he must take three to four anti-nausea medicines to help deal with the radiation. When chemo is over, he must go through more hydration.

The entire chemo process takes about four hours.

at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s and made some shirts to help with the medical bills. In total, the efforts raised around $1,300 and opened Kemp’s eyes to the amount of support he was getting from Plant City as a whole. “When I went to Beef ‘O’ Brady’s, there were people I didn’t even know that had the shirts on and were supporting me,� he says.

Also helping him is his family’s background: his grandparents are veterans of the medical ďŹ eld and his mother, Ann, is currently a medical assistant. This had made it much easier for the family to not only cope with the diagnosis, but also to work with Kemp’s treatment schedule. And, of course, Kemp’s own attitude toward the whole ordeal is encouraging. “It shocked the heck out of me, because he said if it was cancer, he was ready to deal with it,â€? Ann Kemp says.

EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS

Kemp recently completed his third round of chemotherapy at the MofďŹ tt Cancer Center in Tampa and is also undergoing physical rehab to strengthen the muscles in his hip. He currently uses a walker to get around and isn’t the biggest fan of it. So, he’s working as hard as he can to get his doctor’s permission to ditch the thing as soon as possible. “When he ďŹ rst saw me, he was surprised to see how much I got the range of motion back,â€?

Kemp says. “When I went back into the hospital, they had physical therapy every day. I’d be walking twice a day. My goal, hopefully, is to strengthen my leg enough to be able to walk again.�

The tumor in his liver has shrunk with the chemotherapy, so Kemp is able to eat again. All of his food must be served welldone or at least very hot, so as to ward off as much bacteria as possible.

Next week, he will consult his oncologist about treatment plans going forward.

The cancer has derailed his post-graduate plans to enlist in the Navy, and he’s more focused on beating the disease.

He plans to enroll in online classes at Hillsborough Community College when his cancer is cleared and transfer to a larger university later. Or, if possible, he would also consider enlisting in the Navy and working in technology.

He hasn’t made a decision either way, but there are bigger things on his plate now. Winning this battle comes ďŹ rst. “I’m gonna beat it,â€? he says. “I said I’d never had cancer, but that I’m deďŹ nitely not gonna continue to have it after this.

And if I have to beat it multiple times, I will.�

Raburn’s numbers have jumped considerably above his 2014 totals, most notably boosting his on-base, slugging and OBS percentage by more than 100 points a piece. He’s already matched his 2014 totals of four home runs and 22 RBI, as of July 27, and has been one of the league’s most effective batters when hitting off of lefthanded pitchers.

He’s even been the subject of several trade rumors but, as of press time, has not been dealt to the New York Mets or any other team that’s been brought up. Whatever happens, Raburn will just take it as it comes and keep up the hard work. “It’s stuff you really can’t control,� Raburn says. “It’s out of your hands. I’d love to stay here in Cleveland. I love the organization, I love everybody. But there’s things you can’t predict, so you’ve still got to go out there and play.�

The only downside to the 2015 season is that the Indians aren’t quite in the playoff position they wanted to be in. “I feel as good as I have in a while,� Raburn says. “As a team, we haven’t quite played the way we want, but we’re hanging in there.�

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3ODQW&LW\2EVHUYHU FRP KLINE / PAGE 12 Orlando Magic fan in Buffalo, Shane played throughout high school and college as a wing, and when he would grow out of his old NBA or collegiate replica jerseys, gave them all to me. Ironically, several years after he gave me one of my first jerseys — a Kansas Jayhawks jersey, which was probably for Paul Pierce — that school became one of my least favorite in all of college sports.

Speaking of video games,

Shane was the one who introduced me to some of my favorite sports titles. In particular, the NBA Street series: I used to play his copy of the first NBA Street whenever he wasn’t using the PlayStation 2, and got hooked on it. I still have my PS2, which is older than some of my readers, just so that I can play NBA Street V3 and a few Tony Hawk games I got back then.

It may not sound like much but, in some way, shape or form, Shane is the reason why I started caring enough about

some sports to learn them, even though I was never a great athlete. I am and always will be grateful for that. I’ll be in Buffalo celebrating his wedding with him and his family by the time this story is published, but this is in no way a draft or trial run of a speech I was going to give him. It just made me think about how we all find our biggest sports influences, whether they’re direct or indirect.

So tell us: who’s your biggest influence?

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SPONSORED BY COURTNEY PAAT | STATE FARM

ALEX MACHADO Plant City Little League’s 9-10 Baseball All-Stars recently won the state championship and this week played in the Tournament of State Champions in Greenville, South Carolina from Monday through Wednesday. Although the entire team has been playing well, catcher Alex Machado got this week’s nomination.

How does it feel to be on the best Little League team in Florida?

Pretty good.

What’s your favorite subject?

My favorite is reading and writing.

When in the championship game did you know that your team was going to win?

We had a pitcher that was pretty good, and I knew I had to do my best to block everything I could. Adan just pitched a phenomenal game and we won.

Do you have any favorite books?

The book “42” by Jackie Robinson.

You’ve got some tough competition in South Carolina this week.What are you looking forward to about this tournament?

We’re doing pretty good right now. We’ve got one win and one loss. We’re hoping we can win this one. I know we’re gonna play great ball.

How long have you been playing baseball?

Since I was 4.

What’s your favorite thing about playing baseball?

Just to hang out and have fun with the team.

Do you play any positions besides catcher?

I play shortstop sometimes.

What’s the coolest thing you’ve ever done in a baseball game?

Everything to catch. I love to catch.

Do you play any other sports?

Baseball and basketball.

Where do you go to school?

I’m going into Tomlin Middle.

What’s your favorite sports movie of all time?

“The Benchwarmers.”

Who’s your favorite athlete of all time?

Manny Machado.

If you could play baseball for any pro team, what would it be?

The Baltimore Orioles.

If you could hang out with Manny Machado for a day, what would you want to do?

I would want to work infield with him.

If you could try any sport you’ve never played, before, what would it be?

Football. I would want to play running back.

If you had a billion dollars, what would you buy?

I would buy my girlfriend a present. Maybe I would take her out to the store and let her pick.

If you could meet any famous person, whether it’s a baseball player or not, who would it be?

Derek Jeter.

Let’s say there’s a 4-year-old kid who’s getting into baseball for the first time, just like you when you first started, and he asks you for advice.

What would you tell him?

Always listen to your coach, and you always want to pay attention to what to do and take their advice. You learn it, you do it, and it’s there forever.

Do you have any goals for the rest of this year, whether it’s in baseball or not?

I want to get better at pitching.

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PLANT CITY

RAIN

(INCHES)

WEATHER

THURS. July 23

0.02

FRI.

TEMPERATURES

July 24

1.26

SAT.

HIGH 84 82 82 83 84 89 89

Friday, July 31 Saturday, Aug. 1 Sunday, Aug. 2 Monday, Aug. 3 Tuesday, Aug. 4 Wednesday, Aug. 5 Thursday, Aug. 6

July 25

2.30

SUN.

July 26

0.05

MON.

July 27

SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

0.05

TUES.

SUNRISE 6:50 a.m.

6:51 a.m.

6:51 a.m.

6:52 a.m.

6:52 a.m.

6:53 a.m.

6:53 a.m.

Friday, July 31 Saturday, Aug. 1 Sunday, Aug. 2 Monday, Aug. 3 Tuesday, Aug. 4 Wednesday, Aug. 5 Thursday, Aug. 6

July 28

0.06

WED.

July 29

0.00

JULY

TO DATE

8.47 (2014: 8.73)

YEAR

TO DATE 23.06 (2014: 21.39)

SUNSET 8:20 p.m.

8:19 p.m.

8:18 p.m.

8:18 p.m.

8:17 p.m.

8:16 p.m.

8:16 p.m.

OKRA

$7 to 8.85

PHASES

July 31

Aug. 14

Courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture

2. I X F Q M 3. Z U V X U V O H A F M 4. X U J M F K C Z 5. F M U W O M , F M U N F H U

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Allen Evers snapped this picture after a recent storm. Allen says, “At times just one picture can’t capture the essence. With all the rains we’ve had, this huge branch fell in the road. The prompt response of our city employees and the excellent job they (did) needs commendation. That’s why ‘I love Plant City.’”

Allen wins an Octopus Car Wash giftcard. He can claim the card with an ID at Octopus Car Wash, 1503 S. Collins St. Do you have a picture that sums up the personality of Plant City? To enter the I Love Plant City photo contest, email your photo and a caption to Managing Editor Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com. Winners will have their picture featured and will receive a special gift.

CROSSWORD 100 PERCENT by Henry Quarters

1. V F N U X M F X

1

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SHIPPING POINT: Orlando

Each of the following cryptograms is a clue to the identity of a U.S. Supreme Court justice.

Using the hints F=O and M=N, decipher the clues to name the justice.

3

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Aug. 6

CRYPTOQUIZ

8

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8 Plant with colorful flowers 9 More jittery 10 Fill, as with a certain quality 11 Extinct New Zealand birds 12 This puzzle’s theme 13 Thick, dark syrup 14 High standards 15 “___ do you think you are?”

16 Make a goof 17 Tiresome work routine 19 ___ dictum (passing remark) 24 Second person 26 Done with a wink

29 Attempt 31 Corresponds, grammatically 32 Most loyal 33 Frescoes 34 Andean animal 35 Introduction to a book 36 48-Across can cause it 37 Make certain of 40 Elliptical 41 Word with “scam” or “sketch” 43 Slight advantage 47 In a trite way 50 Parson’s dwelling 51 Pie ___ mode 52 Kind of approval 53 Birthplace of St. Francis 54 Revealing skirt feature 57 Most minute 58 Cricket ump’s call 60 Pasta choice 62 ___ Blanc 64 Australia’s ___ Rock 66 Procession leader, at times 67 Homely citrus fruit 70 Served with milk, in French cookery 72 One way to go blonde 73 Color TV pioneer

74 Go by, as time 75 Got the feeling 76 Distort, as the truth 77 Change, as a clock 78 African antelope 79 Characteristic carrier 83 Animal having four feet 85 Came clean?

88 Good buddy 89 Promotional phrase 91 Hebrew “hello” 93 Less lax 94 Baseball Hall-of-Famer Mel 95 Start of two Henry Miller titles 96 Gang confrontation 99 Neighbor of Wyo. 102 Dumfries denial 104 Type of rug 105 Misfortunes 106 In favor of 107 “___ we having fun yet?”

108 Grassland 109 Kind of limit 111 Drink like a dog 112 Barnyard belle 113 Sleep lab study 114 ___ Lanka (Ceylon)

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