09.02.16 PCTO by Plant City Observer

PLANT CITY TIMES &

Observer

Alyssa Cerrito will help to lead economic development. PAGE 3

YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.

VOLUME 4, NO. 8

FREE

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

YOUR TOWN

Doing their part The Plant City Lions Club, the Alpha Leos of the Plant City High School Leo Club, the Alpha Leos of the Strawberry Crest Leo Club and the Omega Leos of Leoni Elite completed a beautification project of the North Evers Street planters in recognition of Lions International Worldwide Week of Service for Youth Monday, Aug. 8, to Sunday, Aug. 14. Downtown merchant volunteers Darcy Stottlemeyer, with All-A-Bloom Florist, and Mark Poppell, with Poppell Insurance, also contributed. The work was completed on Saturday, Aug. 13.

150

number of Florida native plants installed

Courtesy photo.

Charles Justo, a 1999 graduate of Plant City High School, relocated to New York in 2013. He appears in Tyler Perry’s latest series, “Too Close to Home,” on TLC.

number of volunteers

Actor Charles Justo, a Plant City High School alum, has been in “Modern Family” and is a regular cast member of Tyler Perry’s “Too Close to Home.”

number of planters

600

amount of money spent on supplies and plants

EMILY TOPPER STAFF WRITER

New officers

lant City residents will likely recognize a familiar face in Tyler Perry’s latest directing endeavor, “Too Close to Home.” Charles Justo, a 1999 graduate of Plant City High School, has been cast as a recurring character in the television show. The show debuted Monday, Aug. 22, and is the first drama series to air on TLC. The first season has eight episodes. SEE JUSTO PAGE 7

Leading the Command Jackson Elementary’s new principal, Michelle McClelland, has taken charge of the Generals. EMILY TOPPER STAFF WRITER

Emily Topper

Michelle McClellan is in her first principal role at Jackson Elementary after previously serving as the assistant principal at Robinson Elementary.

Michelle McClellan took over as the new commander-in-chief of the Jackson Generals at Jackson Elementary in July, but she’s always known she was meant to be leading students. “I was that kid that played school from the time I was in school,” McClellan said. “I felt called to be a teacher.” The New York native has been on the front lines of the education field for the last 22 years. Now in her first principal role, she hopes to help Jackson students take ownership of their learning while uniting staff, parents and the Plant City community by inspiring and preparing students for the future.

Plant City Entertainment's Board of Managers met in August to install new members and elect its officers for the 2016-17 season. New members joining this year are April Golombek, Tom Mitchell and Darryl Parish. Returning board members are Dodie White, president; Kay Secord, first vice president; Maurice Cecchini, second vice president; Kelley Gustafson, recording secretary; Judy Barta, treasurer; Victor Hamilton, John Harrer, Paul Hetrick, Shirley Outen, Kristen Permenter and Stan Reynolds. Lynn Brewer has been named board member emeritus.

CALLED TO THE CLASSROOM

McClellan and her family relocated to Tampa from New York when she was 10 years old. After graduating from Leto High School, McClellan moved to Tennessee. She attended Trevecca Nazarene University, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. McClellan stayed in the Volunteer State to accept her first teaching job. “I’ve taught third through eighth grades, with a majority in fifth grade,” McClellan said. “I was usually departmentalized, so most of my years were spent teaching math.” McClellan returned to Florida in 1997 and entered the Hillsborough County School District in 2004. It SEE JACKSON PAGE 6

REMEMBERED

Former teammates and coaches say goodbye to Russell Kemp. PAGE 12

WHAT’S HAPPENING

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

“I want people to come out and vote for me, but most importantly I want them to vote.”

WEEK OF SEPT. 2, 2016

— Sen. Marco Rubio, while speaking to a crowd at Veterans’ Memorial Monument Park. FOR PRIMARY ELECTION COVERAGE SEE PAGE 8.

TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME

racie and Logan Burris, of Plant

COMING UP

Turkey Creek High School Reunion

TAMPA BAY RAYS FUN FACTS

Turkey Creek High School will hold its annual 1948 to 1972 reunion from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17, at the Florida Strawberry Festival Expo Hall, 2206 W. Oak Ave. A catered lunch starts at 12:30 p.m. The cost is $40 per person, which includes lunch. So far almost 200 people have committed to attend. Those interested in attending can make checks payable to TCHS Alumni and send it to TCHS Alumni, P.O. Box 93, Dover, Florida 33527. For more information, call Pat Gibson Ballard at (813) 659-1240 or (813) 659-1098.

City, were asked to bring out the baseball and say, “Play ball,”

Although Boston Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz hit his 30th homer in one season while playing the Tampa Bay Rays, the Rays came back from a threerun deficit to beat Boston 4-3 in 11 innings on Wednesday Aug. 24.

Monday, Aug. 22, at the Tampa Bay Rays

Homicide suspect sketch released The Plant City Police Department has issued a sketch of suspect involved in a Saturday, July 2, homicide. At 9:47 p.m. July 2, PCPD found Antowion Alton Dixon, 43, in the road of the 1600 block of East Warren Street, with upper body trauma. Dixon died from his injuries. On the same day, at 9:56 p.m., another 911 call from the same area was received from a man, who advised he had been shot. He was taken to the hospital with at least one wound to the abdomen. Detectives released a composite sketch of the unknown homicide suspect who was described as a white male with dark hair. Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay is offering a reward of up to $3,000 for information that leads to the identification and arrest of the unknown suspect involved in the homicide of Dixon. Anyone with any information regarding the identity of the suspect and who wants to be eligible for a cash reward is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 873-TIPS (8477), report anonymously online at CrimeStoppersTB.com or send a mobile tip using the P3 Tips Mobile application. Crime Stoppers must be contacted first in order to be eligible for a cash reward.

game. “It was a fantastic experience for all of us,” father Jeremy Burris said on Facebook.

Evan Longoria hit his 30th homer of the year Wednesday, Aug. 24, giving him a franchiserecord four seasons with at least 30 HRs. As of Wednesday, Aug. 24, Evan Longoria has played 1,236 games with the Rays organization.

Gude Family Fundraiser

The Rays have had a penguin, cockatoos, snakes and, once, a merengue band, in its locker room as guests.

Supporters of the Gude family are looking for sponsors and selling tickets for a casino night fundraiser 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 23, at Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse’s Blake Hall, 120 State Road 60 E. Joe Gude, owner of Brandon Farms, has cancerous brain tumors. Tickets are $100. Only 250 will be sold. Tickets include dinner, drinks and $500 in fun money. Proceeds will be donated to the Gude family. For tickets or questions, contact Layla Drawdy at (813) 267-2246.

On Sunday, Aug. 28, Chris Archer reached 202 strikeouts for the season.

Tropicana Field has over 30 cownose rays in a tank by the right center field wall.

Sources: ESPN, USA Today

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

Courtesy photo

South Florida Baptist Hospital hosts pediatric aquatic therapy sessions at the Walden Lake Golf and Country Club pool. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS EDITOR

Like most children, there’s nothing Maddox Ray loves more than jumping in the pool on a hot summer day. Unlike most children, he’s taking to the water because his body needs it. Maddox Ray, 4, is one of six children currently enrolled in South Florida Baptist Hospital’s Pediatric Aquatic Therapy program. On clear Friday mornings, he spends one half hour strengthening his core and limbs at the Walden Lake Golf and Country Club pool. The exercise, which supplements his regular routines on dry land, has worked wonders: though paralyzed from the knees down, Maddox can still bounce around a room like a ball of energy. “I’ve seen him get a lot stronger,” his mother, Jessi Ray, said. According to the staff, it’s like this for all six children. Two years after South Florida Baptist Hospital physical therapist Carolina Goicoechea became certified in aquatic therapy, the hospital was able to give her what she wanted:

MAKING A SPLASH Although the hospital isn’t yet able to host therapy sessions on Friday afternoons, it still hopes to add more children to the program before it ends in October. For the therapy sessions to be effective, the summer heat is a necessity: the Walden Lake pool isn’t heated, and children with high muscle toning do not do well in water below 80 degrees. For that reason, the sessions will stop in October and pick up again in 2017. Parents who wish to learn more can call (813) 707-9362.

a program of her own with which to help children. Goicoechea began using the pool for physical therapy sessions Friday, May 13, and began with 10 children. The sessions give the children a fullbody workout, improving their overall

Above: The aquatic therapy sessions give kids a chance to play in the water and work without realizing it. Right: Maddox Ray, 4, uses the pool to expand on the exercises he’s done indoors for years.

strength and flexibility, which leads to increased mobility on land. What began as a physical exercise group evolved into one that includes elements of speech therapy. “So many of our kids, in the water, they become more verbal,” she said. “They’re using more sign language. It opens up a whole new world that we don’t have available to us here in the clinics.” According to occupational therapist Martha Pagnillo, the prospect of going for a swim gets the kids excited enough to either vocalize or sign the things they want: water, fish, swimming and fun in the sun. “We have another little girl that wasn’t really speaking much,” Pagnillo said. “She was kind of grunting a lot. By the second session in the water, she was signing, ‘water,’ she was saying, ‘fish.’ Toward the end of her time in the pool, she was saying, ‘more,’ verbalizing more.” The staff has figured out the pool can help strengthen some face muscles. Kids are invited to blow bubbles

Justin Kline

in the pool, which strengthens their lips through pursing and has a positive effect on oral motor skills. Although some families, such as the Rays, have been using the hospital’s physical therapy services for many years — in this case, since Maddox was an infant recovering from a spinal tumor — it appears that the pool program has been just as crucial to

A Seat at the Table

Five facts in five minutes with Alyssa Cerrito. SHE’S HERE FOR YOU. “My biggest fear coming here was that (Plant City) wouldn’t be receptive to me not living here,” Cerrito said. “But I share those same goals and same prideful moments. Wherever you work is always like family. I love the relationships that I’ve built here. I want the community to know that I’m here for them. I want the community to succeed just like they do.”

EMILY TOPPER STAFF WRITER

THE PERFECT FIT

Cerrito is a graduate of the University of Central Florida’s Rosen College of Hospitality. Upon graduating, she began working for the Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport as the marketing and events coordinator. “I loved the company culture and values,” Cerrito said. “But I realized I didn’t want to be in a service-oriented industry.” Cerrito transitioned into the marketing and communications side of the company. However, the company’s corporate headquarters were based in Chicago. In love with the Sunshine State and all it had to offer, Cerrito made the decision to move to the Orlando EDC. “I fell in love with it,” Cerrito said. “It always works out the way it’s supposed to. Everything kind of fell into place. I haven’t looked back since.” Now, she’s looking forward to the Plant City EDC. Cerrito is excited to work in a community that is supportive of opportunities for growth. “When we have the support of our citizens, it makes our jobs easier,” Cer-

Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

HIGH 5

Alyssa Cerrito joined the Plant City Economic Development Corp. in June and has already found her niche in the community.

A self-described people person, Alyssa Cerrito has found what she loves as the new marketing and communications manager of the Plant City Economic Development Corp., a group focused on attracting businesses to Plant City. “I like being in front of people,” Cerrito said. “I love meeting new people, and I love hearing their stories.” Cerrito joined the team of the Plant City EDC on June 20. The Lake Nona resident previously worked as the marketing coordinator for the Orlando Economic Development Commission. Though she’s well versed in the major metro market, she felt connected to the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World. “There was something enticing,” Cerrito said. “I was drawn to Plant City by the people and how much they loved their community.” It’s a community Cerrito has come to call a second home.

development as anything done in the offices. “It’s like a new environment for him, where he actually can move and doesn’t have to worry about being uncoordinated or not having his balance and falling,” Jessi Ray said.

SHE’S GOT TIGER PRIDE. “I am a huge Auburn football fan,” she said. “I’m just a big sports person. I also have season tickets to (Tampa Bay) Lightning games.” SHE LOVES HER FUR-BABIES. Emily Topper

Alyssa Cerrito was hired as the marketing and communications manager for the Plant City EDC in June.

rito said. “I don’t know that there’s a community that fits that ‘open for business’ model more than this one. There’s such a sense of family. The cultures of the companies align with the culture of the community.” As the marketing and communications manager for a corporation that became official less than one year ago, Cerrito has jumped into the action. “I wear many hats,” she said. She is a major contributor to the EDC’s creative ideas and events and has a hand in investor relations. “It’s about keeping people informed and engaged,” Cerrito said. She’s working alongside Plant City EDC President Jake Austin, as well as the EDC’s board members. “We both try to be front-facing in every aspect,” Cerrito said. “We’re here for the community.” “She is the perfect fit,” Yvonne Fry, who serves on the executive committee, said. “They feel strongly about that.” NOT JUST A BOY’S CLUB

Cerrito’s hospitality and metro market experience have made her an asset for the Plant City EDC’s team. “I love that it’s a blank canvas com-

munity,” Cerrito said. “We can shape the future, and I’m excited to have a hand in what the community lends itself to. It’s building and evolving.” Like the rest of the team, Cerrito is focused on getting the EDC’s name more ingrained in the community while highlighting all Plant City has to offer for outside investors. “Plant City is not just a stop on someone’s list,” she said. “It’s a destination. (The EDC) is a startup in a sense, and to be a part of it is so exciting. We’re painting what the future looks like. It’s the community, it’s everyone.” Besides continuing to put Plant City on the map, Cerrito’s goals in her new position include building ongoing partnerships and engaging investors in a meaningful way. “That’s a key component in the recipe to making all of this work,” Cerrito said. “The closer you are with your partners, the easier it is to get things done. It’s a joint effort, and everyone here realizes that ... we’re making it meaningful for investors to be a part of this.” Contact Emily Topper at etopper@ plantcityobserver.com.

“When we have the support of our citizens, it makes our jobs easier. I don’t know that there’s a community that fits that ‘open for business’ model more than this one. There’s such a sense of family.” — Alyssa Cerrito

“My puppies, they are my kids,” Cerrito said. “They’re the unofficial EDC mascots. I have two chihuahuas, Duke and Daisy. They’re rescues. I couldn’t separate them, so I took both of them.” SHE HAS A SENSE OF ADVENTURE. “I love traveling,” Cerrito said. “That goes back to culture and experience. I love traveling, and I love food.” SHE LOVES WHAT SHE DOES. “I overall love what I do,” Cerrito said. “I’m very much a people pleaser. I’m so happy with my choices. I’ve been embraced so nicely here, and I wouldn’t think twice about taking this job again. It makes it a wonderful place to come and work with people. It makes getting up every day and going to work not really work. I have support from a wonderful team.”

COPS CORNER

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

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

AUG. 19

LIVING ON THE EDGE East Calhoun Street/North Knight Street. Carrying concealed firearm/possession of methamphetamine: Officer responded to a report of a reckless driver in the area and made contact with the suspect. She was found to be illegally carrying a concealed firearm, as well as methamphetamine, and was arrested. UNSURE SHOT 1000 block of West Gibbs Street. Shooting: Officer met with complainant, who stated unknown suspect(s) had fired gun shots near her residence between 1 and 2 a.m..

AUG. 20

A CRIME UNCOVERED 2300 block of James L. Redman Parkway. Grand theft: Officer met with complainant, who stated unknown suspect(s) had stolen the cover for his 2002 Mercury 250hp outboard boat motor. IGONE 800 block of West Ball Street. Petit theft: Officer met with complainant, who stated unknown suspect(s) had stolen her Apple iPhone 5C after she had left it at a restaurant. NOW YOU SEE IT, NOW YOU DON’T 3060 block of James L. Redman Parkway. Theft: Officer met with complainant, who stated unknown

suspect(s) stole a Stihl brand gas edger from an open trailer while the complainant and coworkers were doing yard work. ASKING FOR IT 300 block of South Frontage Road. Resisting officer with violence: Officer responded to a report of a fight between two men. Upon locating the suspects and intervening, one of the men became violent with the officer. He was arrested.

AUG. 21

BAD FIRST IMPRESSION 710 block of Whitehall Street. Information: Officers responded to a report of a burglary in progress and met with the complainant, who stated he had seen two white, male teenagers fleeing his residence. The juveniles were located in the woods near the home, but it was then

107

AUG. 23

AUG. 22

EXTERIOR DECORATOR 3500 block of Baker Street. Criminal mischief: Officer met with complainant, an employee at a store, who stated unknown suspect(s) had bent a piece of aluminum siding on the building, causing $25 in damages. It was determined that no one had attempted forced entry into the store. A waiver of prosecution was signed. CINDER SURPRISE 1800 block of Charlotte Street. Criminal mischief: Officers met with complainant, who stated unknown suspect(s) had thrown a cinder block through her vehicle’s rear window while she was inside her home.

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BLOWING IN THE WIND Via Cortana/Mud Lake Road. Theft: While the complainant was working in a neighborhood, he returned to his truck and found unknown suspect(s) had stolen his backpack leaf blower. COLLECT CALLING 1 Police Place. Fraud: Complainant stated unknown suspect(s) had used his Social Security number to open a Verizon Wireless account in Las Vegas, Nevada.

AUG. 25

NOT THAT SLICK East Park Road/Jim Johnson Road. Drug violation: Officers made contact with the driver of a silver Saturn SUV, which had been driving at night with no headlights, and ar-

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rested him after discovering drugs.

determined they had only been walking in the complainant’s yard. No charges were filed.

SO OBVIOUS 2600 block of James L. Redman Parkway. Possession of methamphetamines/paraphernalia: Officers responded to a store in reference to a report of a suspicious person in the parking lot. Suspect was found smoking meth in his vehicle and was arrested.

AUG. 19

THANKS FOR SHOPPING 200 block of West Alexander Street. Grand theft: Officer met with complainant, an employee at a grocery store, who stated a man had stolen an electric shopping cart. Suspect was identified and arrested.

September 10-11

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

FROM JACKSON PAGE 1

was then she considered climbing the ranks in the school system. “I had administrators that saw it in me,” McClellan said. “I took leadership classes.” She began taking on extra roles on campus, from serving as a department and grade lead to training and mentoring new teachers. In 2008, she received her education leadership degree from Nova Southeastern University. McClellan worked at Apollo Beach Elementary for six years before taking her most recent position at Robinson Elementary as the assistant principal. She’s ready for her next endeavor. McClellan came to Jackson Elementary on July 20, after interviewing for the position July 18. She replaces the newly-retired Dora Madison. As the new principal, McClellan has her sights set on making the school, which has 500 students, a unified front. “I want to build a culture within the school,” McClellan said. “I want there to be a family feel. I want the community to know we love their students. We want our families and our community to feel welcome on campus. I just see it as a hub of the community.”

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It’s likely parents have noticed the unifying efforts at Jackson. This year, McClellan implemented a parent liaison for Spanish-speaking parents to improve communication efforts. The school also is offering updated parent links, a website and newsletter with important notices. “We want to embrace the diversity of our school,” McClellan said. “We’re more than 50% Hispanic. Hopefully (parents) notice a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. It’s so important to communicate with parents. Almost everything is brand new this year. We want to have our students love coming to school and inspire them.” The school has just chosen a new student council and will soon be adding students to the School Advisory Council to share input with parents and business partners. McClellan believes the efforts will bring both the school and staff closer together. “We want to hear from the students as well,” McClellan said. “I’m excited to be trying to build a family atmosphere with 75 individuals I’ve just met. When you’re on a team together with one vision, you can accomplish

Please send resume and cover letter to: Karen Berry, Publisher 1507 S. Alexander St., Suite 103 Plant City, FL, 33563 or kberry@plantcityobserver.com

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WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS Michelle McClellan, the new principal at Jackson Elementary, has already hit the ground running for her first year leading the Generals. She has plans of what she would like to see at the school in the future: COLLEGE INTERNS “I would like to get that here,” she said. “Robinson had interns. That is a cool experience for your school, training the next generation of teachers.” MORE OUTDOOR SPACES “I’d like to see a covered court and revitalizing some of the campus,” she said.

Emily Topper

Jackson Elementary Principal Michelle McClellan with a treasure box, used for student initiatives. Encouraging students and unifying the school with the community are two of her priorities for the school year.

anything.” So far, McClellan has gotten positive feedback about the improvements she’s already made to the school. “It’s a collaborative atmosphere,” she said. “I’m trying to spend time in student classrooms and get to know them. I’ve gotten positive feedback from Spanish parents ... we’re already making half of our families feel more welcome at school.” Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver.com.

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

Evangelical College & Seminary LET US DO THE COOKING! DINE IN OR CARRY OUT

Annual “We want everybody to watch it so we can get green lighted for season two,” Justo said. The series centers around Anna, played by Danielle Savre, who finds herself in the center of a political scandal after her affair with the president of the United States is exposed. Justo plays Victor, a man who agrees to drive Anna back to her hometown after her scandal is exposed. “I think a lot of the audience will be drawn to (Victor),” Justo said. “He feels the need to prove that he’s important. He loves attention, and he has a pretty picture on the outside. He’s got a little GQ to him. He’s very stubborn, and he wants to do things his way.” The role doubles as an opportunity and a challenge for Justo, who is usually drawn to more comedic roles. “I never saw myself doing drama,” Justo said. “I wanted to do comedy. I’ve done stand-up and improv. I think that’s what makes an actor. You have to learn how to be versatile. You can’t just do one thing.” Since graduating from high school 17 years ago, versatility has become one of Justo’s greatest strengths — and something that helped him land his latest role.

LEARNING TO ADAPT

Justo took community college classes and moved to Miami following his high school graduation. He started doing fitness competitions. “I always had an active life,” Justo said. “I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. I had a personal training business, but I was getting a lot of modeling gigs in New York.” To make modeling more costeffective, Justo made the move to the Big Apple in 2013. Since then, he’s modeled for Nike, GQ Magazine and Under Armour. “I decided to give it two months,” Justo said. “Sometimes you have to step out of your comfort zone before life really begins. There was a wave of good stuff that happened, so I decided to stay.” Justo had a few acting classes under his belt at the time, but decided he wanted to pursue the avenue further. He was accepted to The Barrow Group Theatre Company & School, the same acting institution attended by Academy Award winner Anne Hathaway. “I always wanted to do conservatory, but couldn’t commit due to work hours,” Justo said. “I am a student of the art, and I’ll continue to study for the rest of my life. It’s worked so far.” Since then, the acting credits have started rolling in. Justo appeared in the independent film “Out of My Hand” in 2015 and has since appeared in the CBS series “The Inspectors” and the ABC hit series “Modern Family.” His recent roles have prepared him for his latest adventure: working under the Tyler Perry label. TOO CLOSE TO HOME

Courtesy photo.

On “Too Close to Home,” Charles Justo plays Victor, a clothing designer with a knack for getting into trouble.

Chicken Bar-B-Que & Trimmings! Labor Day. Mon., Sept. 5th, 2016. 11am-5pm Liberty Baptist Church, Plant City Fellowship Hall 2505 W. Granfield Ave. $8.00 per adult Contact Liberty Baptist Office: 813-752-1450 or Phyllis Westlake: 813-752-7197

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On his way to becoming a household name, Justo would encourage anyone, no matter their age, to pursue their dreams — even if they come from a small town like Plant City. “Do it,” he said. “Follow your dreams. You have to have a really thick skin. You can’t give up. You have to do what makes you happy. You’ve got to do the work, you’ve got to believe that it’s going to happen.” For Justo, success started with small steps. “It was, ‘What can I do next?’” he said. “Go after your dreams. Yeah, it’s competitive and it’s hard. But so is life, right?” In the slower moments, Justo relies on hobbies and outlets to keep him occupied. For him, that was exercise. “You’ll drive yourself crazy waiting for that phone to ring,” he said. “Exercise, training ... that saved my life. It kept me off the streets. All I did was play baseball and basketball and work out.” And never, he said, lose sight of what you want. “Don’t say it,” he said. “Do it. I wanted to make something of my life. It’s a dream. You have to put in work.” Justo can be seen chasing his dream in “Too Close to Home,” 9 p.m. Mondays on TLC. Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver.com.

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From landing an audition for the show to getting cast as Victor, Justo’s expe-

rience working with Tyler Perry Studios has been an exciting whirlwind. “There was an episode of “Modern Family” that I was in that aired in March,” Justo said. “I played a yoga instructor. That episode, I guess, made it’s way around, and I got an audition.” It was an opportunity that was simultaneously thrilling and nervewracking. “It was either, ‘You’re going to make this or you’re going to blow it,’” Justo said. After submitting a required audition tape on a Friday, Justo got a call on a Monday asking him to be in Atlanta for a callback on Wednesday. After landing in Atlanta, Justo went to his audition in front of some of the major names in television: the president of TLC, cast director Rhavynn Drummer and — much to Justo’s surprise — Tyler Perry himself. “I had prepared scenes, but they picked the one I wasn’t prepared for,” Justo said. “By the grace of God, I improvised a lot.” Justo was offered a casting credit immediately after the audition. “It’s an experience never to be forgotten,” Justo said. “We started filming within a week and a half. We shot the whole season. It’s kinds of great. Everything was shot in Atlanta. We would have been done in five days, but there was rain.” Justo had just a few days to memorize his lines and delve into his complex character. “Victor has a lot of layers,” he said. “You’ll start seeing that very soon. He’s free-spirited and warm-hearted, but he finds himself in trouble.”

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SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

YOUR NEIGHBORS

Emily Topper

Former House Rep. Rich Glorioso and Sen. Marco Rubio

PASSION FOR THE PRIMARY P

olitical candidates made some local stops before the primary Tuesday, Aug. 30. Hillsborough County voters went to Plant City’s Veterans’ Memorial Monument Park Friday, Aug. 26, to hear from Sen. Marco Rubio. Rubio made a stop in the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World as part of his campaign for re-election to the United States Senate, where he has represented Florida since 2010. Rubio did a meet and greet with voters and supporters for one hour. He was supported at the event by Republicans in the Florida House and Florida Senate, including Rep. Ross Spano and Sen. Tom Lee. Representatives were also present to support Rubio from the offices of Rep. Dan Raulerson and U.S. Congressman Dennis Ross. Plant City Commissioner Mike Sparkman spoke in support of Rubio and his re-election campaign efforts. “We’re proud of him for what he has done for the community and the state of Florida,” Sparkman said. Lee agreed. “We appreciate Senator Rubio being here today,” Lee said. “There is delivery ... and there is message in politics. I have not in my life heard an individual who can deliver a message and connect with people like Marco Rubio.” Rubio thanked his supporters for coming out to the event. “I want people to come out and vote for me, but most importantly I want them to vote,” Rubio said. “I value your support, and I thank you all for being here today.” Rubio will run in the general election against Democrat Patrick Murphy. Sen. Tom Lee hosted a thank you barbecue at the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds Saturday, Aug. 27. Lee is unopposed for the District 20 Senate seat. Among guests included family members, Plant City commissioners, Hillsborough County School Board members, Hillsborough County commissioners, representatives and more. Former three-term Plant City mayor John Dicks held a watch party Tuesday, Aug. 30, at Top Shelf Sports Bar & Grill in Historic Downtown Plant City. Dicks, a Democrat, ran for the District 6 Hillsborough County Commission seat. Pat Kemp won the Democratic primary and will face Tim Schock in November.

UNITED STATES SENATOR REPUBLICAN Marco Rubio 68.85% 45,692 Carlos Beruff 22.77% 15,113 Dwight Mark Anthony Young 5.26% 3,494 Ernie Rivera 3.12% 2,068 DEMOCRATIC Patrick Murphy 62.93% 42,865 17.28% 11,772 Pam Keith Alan Grayson 11.22% 7,643 Roque “Rocky” De La Fuente 6.77% 4,610 Reginald Luster 1.79% 1,222 HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY COMMISSION DISTRICT 6

Emily Topper

Sen. Marco Rubio with campaigner Mary Fales. Fales has made hundreds of calls on his behalf.

REPUBLICAN Tim Schock Jim Norman

61.64% 38,151 38.36% 23,743

DEMOCRATIC Patricia Kemp Thomas Scott Brian Willis John Dicks

44.64% 29,819 25.32% 16,914 22.56% 15,067 7.48% 4,998

CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT AND COMPTROLLER DEMOCRATIC (REPUBLICAN ERIC SEIDEL WAS UNOPPOSED) Pat Frank 58.96% 39,980 41.04% 27,830 Kevin Beckner SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER DISTRICT 7 23.09% 31,413 Cathy James Lynn Gray 19.68% 26,771 Stanley G. Gray 13.73% 18,687 Alan Clendenin 11.55% 15,717 10.60% 14,428 Randy Toler Joseph P. Caetano 7.93% 10,785 Carlos Frontela 6.78% 9,229 Norene Copeland Miller 6.64% 9,034

Photos by Amber Jurgensen

Above: Steve Hurley, Sharon Dicks and Al Berry Right: John Dicks and Donn Scott Jr.

NO. 4 CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT Yes No

75.02% 99,651 24.98% 33,178

— AMBER JURGENSEN AND EMILY TOPPER Amber Jurgensen

Christine Quinn, running for Congress, District 14, and Jackie King

Amber Jurgensen

Brandon Lee, Laurel Lee, Sen. Tom Lee, Diane Sparkman and Plant City Commissioner Mike Sparkman

PlantCityObserver.com

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PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

LEARN LEADERSHIP SKILLS

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EMILY TOPPER

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Emliy Topper

The Rev. Dr. Daniel Middlebrooks and Dr. Dan Morris are planning the BLI Conference at Hopewell Baptist Church. They hope it can become an annual event at churches throughout Plant City.

cers, as well. “We have a tremendous church,” Middlebrooks said. “The heart is to impact the community and live the Gospel outside of church, not just in the church on Sundays.” The theme of ‘Get in the Boat’ centers around faith and working together as a team. “All of us can either be floundering in the water, or we can get in the boat together and work together,” Middlebrooks said. “These speakers are speaking from their passion in life. That’s what makes each of these speakers so exciting.” In addition to hearing from the three speakers, attendees will be able to attend two hour-long breakout sessions led by Middlebrooks, Roesel, Ricketson and the Rev. Jay Brinson, of Knights Baptist Church. The sessions will cover relationship building principles, increasing professional productivity, becoming a bold leader and learning to follow before leading. “We’re looking at the primary theme of leadership,” Middlebrooks said. “It’s just another tool. If you treat people as they are, they’ll become worse. If you treat people as they can be, they’ll become better. That’s a dynamic of leadership. Leaders are people that are perpetually asking, ‘How do I become better?’ What the Biblical Leadership Institute wants to do is invest in the community. When you invest in people, you never go wrong with a return on investment.” “We’re excited about where we’re going,” Morris said.

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SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Friday, Sept. 9 6 to 6:30 p.m. Registration and refreshments

6:30 to 6:36 p.m. Music by Terry Williams 6:36 to 6:40 p.m. Prayer/welcome by Dr. Daniel Middlebrooks, introduction of Dr. Danny Morris 6:40 to 6:43 p.m BLI video 6:43 to 6:50 p.m. Dr. Morris opening remarks and introduction of speakers 6:50 to 7:20 p.m. Dr. Rusty Ricketson

8:33 to 8:40 a.m. Worship/Music

8:50 to 9 a.m. Movement to various breakout session

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9:50 to 10:10 a.m. Movement to next session

10:10 to 10:50 Second block of sessions

11 to 11:15 Music/worship

8 p.m. Closing prayer

11:15 to 11:18 Welcome back

8 to 8:45 p.m. Fellowship and vendors’ representatives

11:18 to 11:20 BLI Video

Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver.com.

”

9 to 9:50 a.m. First block of sessions

7:30to 8 p.m. Dr. Rob Jackson

11:20 to 11:25 Dr. Dan Morris

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Get in the boat. That’s the slogan of the Biblical Leadership Institute’s Leadership Conference, which will be held Friday, Sept. 9, and Saturday, Sept. 10, at Hopewell Baptist Church. The conference focuses on teaching leadership skills to individuals in both their personal life and church outreach. “This is the very first conference that BLI has done,” the Rev. Dr. Daniel Middlebrooks, pastor at Hopewell Baptist Church, said. “We’re hoping it begins to grow so that other churches can host it. We’re starting it small and allowing God to grow it as big as He wants to.” Middlebrooks, along with Dr. Dan Morris Sr., the president of the Biblical Leadership Institute, would like the conference to happen once annually. “Leadership is a universal need in all of our lives,” Middlebrooks said. “We strive for excellence. (Hopewell) truly has adopted a policy of, ‘It’s excellence, or nothing.’ God deserves our very best. So do people who come through the doors. This was planned, and this was prayed over. There’s something for everyone.” Members from all denominations and those looking to improve their leadership skills are welcome to attend the conference. The conference features speakers Dr. Rob Jackson, of First Baptist Church of Dover, Dr. Charles Roesel, of First Baptist Church of Leesburg, and Dr. Rusty Ricketson, of Foundation of the Faith. “Even though it’s affiliated with Baptist churches, it’s for anyone who wants to learn good leadership skills,” Morris said. Teachers are welcome to attend too. Teachers who attended the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s recent New Teacher Coffee were invited to the event for free. “They are impacting the generations that are going to change the world,” Middlebrooks said. “When we pour into the lives of teachers that are impacting children, we are making the community better.” The church reached out to first responders and law enforcement offi-

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Church, 6001 S. County Line Road 39 Cost: $25 per person; $40 per couple; lunch Saturday $10 per person Info: (813) 767-2082 or ChaplainMiddlebrooks@ hotmail.com

Biblical Leadership Institute’s “Get in the Boat” Leadership Conference When: 6 to 9 p.m., Friday, Sept. 9, and 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10 Where: Hopewell Baptist

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

IF YOU GO

The Biblical Leadership Institute conference will teach leadership skills to pastors, teachers and all those looking to give back in the community.

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— Caralyne Johns, 18

2016

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PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

SATURDAY, SEPT. 3

INDOOR YARD SALE 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 3, at Cork United Methodist Church, 4815 W. Sam Allen Road. All proceeds will go to feed the homeless through Friends in the Park of Plant City.

MONDAY, SEPT. 5

CENTRAL FLORIDA FLUTE CIRCLE 6:30 to 8:45 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 6, at the 1914 Plant City High School Community Center, 605 N. Collins St. Come to play or learn the Native American. Listeners welcome. For more information, contact Dock Green at (813) 763-8118.

ANNUAL CHICKEN BARBECUE AND TRIMMINGS DINNER 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Liberty Baptist Church, 2505 W. Granfield Ave. Let Evangelical College and Seminary do the cooking. Dine in or carry-out. Tickets are $8 per adult. Contact the Liberty Baptist Office at (813) 752-1450 or Phyllis at (813) 7527197.

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 7

TUESDAY, SEPT. 6

THURSDAY, SEPT. 8

FRIENDS OF THE BRUTON MEMORIAL LIBRARY ANNUAL MEETING 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 6, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. Highlighting the agenda will be a program presented by Ed Verner and Gil Gott of the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center. Officers will be elected for the upcoming 2016-17 year. Any Bruton Memorial Library supporter may attend and become a member of the organization. Annual dues are $10, with seniors paying a reduced fee of $5. INVENTING WITH LITTLEBITS 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 6, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. Invent and explore with LittleBits, electronic building blocks that let you create machines and music.

PLANT CITY COMMUNITY LADIES BIBLE STUDY LUNCH 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 7, at Plant City Recreation Center, 301 Dort St. The Bible study is taught every Wednesday. This is the kickoff lunch for its 10th year. For more information, call Martha Sue Skinner at (813) 752 7630. BENDING ON A LOOM 1 to 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 8, at the 1914 Plant City High School Community Center, 605 N. Collins St. Class size will be limited to 10 people. The cost is $35 or $25 if you bring your own loom and beading supplies. To pre-register, call Joyce Bugaiski at (863) 513-0788.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 9

FRINGE BOUTIQUE ANNIVERSARY SALE 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 9, and Saturday, Sept. 10, at Fringe Boutique, 601 E. Alexander St. There will be 20 to 50% off storewide. ShopFringeBoutique.com. “GET IN THE BOAT” LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE 6:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 9, and 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 10. On Friday, Sept. 9, Dr. Rusty Ricketson and Dr. Rob Jackson will speak. On

BEST BET SATURDAY, SEPT. 3

OLD-SCHOOL PRE-LABOR DAY DANCE 3 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 3, at the Expo Hall at the Glover Center, 5110 Horton Road, Bealsville. For more information, call (813) 752-5760 or (813) 205-7240. Saturday, Aug. 10, there will be breakout sessions and an address from Dr. Charles Roesel. Guests are invited after the Saturday events to a barbecue lunch at Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill. Tickets to the lunch are $10. The cost for the conference is $25 per person or $40 per couple. Pastors and staff pay $10. For more information, call (813) 767-2082.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 10

DANCE 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10, at Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill, 106 State Road 60 E. Doors open at 5 p.m. for dinner. Entertainment starts at 7 p.m. and will go to 10 p.m. Admission is $10 per person. FOURTH ANNUAL COMMUNITY FLEA MARKET 7:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 10, at St. Clement Catholic Church, 1104 N. Alexander St. For more information, call (813) 725-8251 ext. 305. INTRODUCTION TO TIME BANKING 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10, at Plant City Commons Community Garden,

2001 E. Cherry St. Learn how to exchange skills and services, where no money passes through hands. PlantCityCommunityGarden.com.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 11

BUCS FIRST AWAY GAME WATCH PARTY 1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 11, at Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill, 106 E. State Road 60. UncleMikesGrill. com. HERO’S BANQUET 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 11, at Hopewell Baptist Church, 6001 CR 39 S. First responders and their families are invited for recognition and honor. RSVP to the church office at (813) 737-3053.

ONGOING

ACOUSTIC HAPPY HOUR 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Fridays, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub & Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818. BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS 1 to 2 p.m. Tuesdays, at South Florida Baptist Hospital, 301 N. Alexander St.

PLANT CITY FAMILY YMCA REGISTRATION ENDS SUNDAY...

COUNTRY-FRIED FRIDAYS 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Fridays, at Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill, 106 E. State Road 60. Ladies drink free and the DJ plays top 40 country hits. (813) 737-4444. HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY ENTREPRENEUR SERVICES ASSISTANCE 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays at the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, 106 N. Evers St. KEEL AND CURLEY LIVE MUSIC 6:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, at Keel and Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road. (813) 752-9100. PLANT CITY CONNECTIONS 8 a.m. Tuesdays, at Uncle Mike’s Smokehouse Grill, 106 State Road 60 E. Facebook.com/groups/pcityconnections. O’BRIEN’S LIVE MUSIC 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, at O’Brien’s Irish Pub & Family Restaurant, 1701 S. Alexander St. (813) 764-8818.

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YOUTH SPORTS

BORN AGAIN GUN CLUB 7 p.m. the second Monday of the month, at One Accord Church, 2203 W. Baker St. For more information and to view the club’s bylaws and application, please visit its website at 1keeneteacher.wix.com/bagc, check out its Facebook page or email President Jeff Keene at bornagaingunclub@gmail.com. CHRISTIAN CONTEMPORARY MUSIC 6:33 to 8:13 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, at Krazy Kup, 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. (813) 752-1220.

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JOSEPH S. BUTKIEWICZ Joseph S. Butkiewicz, of Plant City, and formerly of Rome, New York, died Aug. 16, 2016. He was born April 9, 1940, in Rome to Joseph and Genevieve Witek Butkiewicz. He attended Rome schools and graduated in 1958 from Rome Free Academy. He enlisted in the United States Air Force and proudly served his country. He and his first wife, Yvonne Keuhner, had two children, Sheryl L. and Robert M. Butkiewicz. He later married Nancy A. Bax on April 1, 1968. They lived in Taberg, New York, before moving to Florida in 1999 following the birth of their grandson, Alexander J. Harrison. He was a wonderful man and truly loved the Lord. He had a servant’s heart and was not only a hard worker but a loyal friend. He is survived by his son, Robert Butkiewicz (Roberta); daughters, Sheryl L. Shepard, of Rome, and Gail Harrison (Gary), of Plant City; stepson, William Dishman (Wendy), of Taberg; brother, John Butkiewicz, of Memphis, Tennessee; sister, Mary Ann Peterson (Larry), of Brookings, South Dakota; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy; parents; and stepsons, Phillip Augerot and Leo Dishman. A graveside service with military honors was held Aug. 24, at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.

RICHARD “DICK” ELZ Richard “Dick” Elz, 85, of Milford, New Hampshire, died July 20, 2016, at his home. He was born Oct. 20, 1930, in Quincy, Massachusetts. He was the second of three sons to the late George A. and Greta (Clevestrom) Elz. He was a veteran of the United States Army, having served overseas during the Korean War. Following his service, he graduated from Northeastern University. He was the beloved husband of Priscilla (Chase) Elz. The couple

celebrated 59 years of marriage. They raised four daughters in White Plains, New York. He was a dedicated family man, devoting much of his free time to family activities. He enjoyed summers with his family in Belgrade Lakes, Maine. He and his wife spent their retirement years golfing and cruising and enjoying their close relationships with friends in Plant City. He was known for his charisma, sharp wit and genuine interest in everyone he met. His last three years were spent at Ledgewood Bay in Milford, where he loved and was loved by all he encountered. He is survived by wife, Priscilla; daughters, Nancy Abbott, Judy Loubier, Cindy Rivota and Kathy Cosimano; sons-in-law; 14 grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; and numerous nieces and nephews. If desired, donations may be made to Belgrade Regional Conservation Alliance, 137 Main St., PO Box 250, Belgrade Lakes, Maine 04918.

ROBERT LEE “R.L.” HIERS Robert Lee “R.L.” Hiers, 95, of Dover, and born in Jennings, Florida, died Aug. 10, 2016. He was a veteran of the United States Army, having served in World War II. After the war, he came back to Dover and went into the grocery business. He was co-owner of Ideal Grocery for many years and then manager of Dover Bi-Lo. He was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Dover, where he served as deacon. He loved his family and his church. He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Mary Ellaner Hiers. He is survived by his daughter, Judy Smith (Dr. James); grandchildren, LeAnne Peacock (Wallace), Lacinda Prestwood (Jack) and Dr. Jeff Smith (Bekki); greatgrandchildren, Justin Peacock (Amy), Tara Adkins (Kyle), Kendelle Jimenez (Josh), Ty Prestwood, Jordan Prestwood, Jazmen Smith, Joktan Smith and Joshua Smith; and great-great-grandchildren, Wyatt Adkins, Addy Joy Adkins, Lyla Jimenez and Avery Peacock. The family would like to thank Dr. Max Rattes, Dr. Christopher

Berchelmann, the staff at Whispering Willows A.L.F. and the LifePath Hospice Purple Team. A celebration of life was held Aug. 15, at First Baptist Church of Dover. Dr. James Smith, Dr. Jeff Smith and the Rev. Rolla Utley officiated. Committal followed at Dover Cemetery, Dover. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.

CHARLOTTE WEST MOORE

Charlotte West Moore, 78, of Plant City, died Aug. 9, 2016. She was of the Pentecostal faith. She is survived by her children, Melvin Moore, of Tampa, Martin Moore (Lisa), of Tampa, and Crystal Reynolds (Steven), of Plant City; grandchildren, Joshua Reynolds (fiancee Katie Lusink), of Valrico, and Sierra Moore, of Oviedo; siblings, Wyatt West, Oswald West, Darrell West and Dorothy Taylor; and many nieces, nephews and other family. She was preceded in death by her grandson, Darroch Reynolds. A celebration of life was held Aug. 13, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Committal followed at Hopewell Memorial Gardens. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.

JOSEPHINE ADAMS POLK Josephine Adams Polk, 72, died July 26, 2016, at Florida Hospital Connerton in Land O’ Lakes. She was born Nov. 15, 1943, in Plant City. She was a homemaker and entrepreneur of home daycare. She will be greatly missed. She is survived by her son; three daughters; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, grandnieces, grandnephews and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Polk Jr.; and one son. A funeral service was held Aug. 6, at Mt. Olive Baptist Church. Interment followed at Garden of Peace Cemetery. The family would like to thank all those who shared their time and words of comfort during their grief.

WILLIAM “BILL” JOHN STRAWN JR. William “Bill” John Strawn Jr., 82, of Plant City, died Aug. 21, 2016, at his home. He was born in Norfolk, Virginia. He was a real family man and loved his grandchildren. He was a devout Christian who loved, played and coached football. He had a career in education. He was a people person and will be terribly missed by his family and many, many friends. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Jean; children, Valerie DeArmond (Doug), Perry Strawn (Belinda) and Terry Strawn (Theresa); grandchildren, Jesse Starr, Aaron Starr, Shane Strawn (Heather), Jordan Strawn (Marlee), Courtney Strawn, Drew Strawn (Stacy), Morgan Davis and Summer DeArmond; great-grandsons, Peyton and Eli; great-granddaughter, Londyn; brother, Richard (Gloria); three nephews; and two nieces. He was preceded in death by his brother, Bobby; and parents, William Sr. and Lydia Strawn. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to LifePath Hospice at ChaptersHealth.org.

WILLIAM R. “BILL” WACASER JR. William R. “Bill” Wacaser Jr., 84, of Plant City, died Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2016, surrounded by family. He was born Sept. 1, 1931, and was a lifelong resident of Plant City. He is survived by his children, Joy, Terry (Allison), Bobby (Charlene), Gary (Helen), Denise (Keith) and Jeffrey (Christie); daughterin-law DeeDee (wife of Rossie); siblings, Margaret Watson and Marvin; 28 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and many other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

wife, Joyce; and sons, Rossie and Ronnie. A celebration of life was held Aug. 27, at Hopewell Funeral Home. Committal followed at Hopewell Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to LifePath Hospice at ChaptersHealth.org. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.

EDDIE WILLIAMS Eddie Williams, 52, of Plant City, died Aug. 17, 2016. A native of Plant City, he was the son of Cleo Elliott and Helen Coleman Dyal. He is survived by his parents; and siblings, Loretta Wales, Murray Dyal and Bryan Elliott. A funeral service was held Aug. 22, at Bethany Baptist Church. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome. com.

LENA MAE WOOD Lena Mae Wood, 91, of Plant City, died Aug. 14, 2016. Born in Jackson, Mississippi, she was the daughter of the late Richard and Mary Peck Winstead. She was a member of Westside/ Liberty Baptist Church and the Eastern Star. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Wood. She is survived by her children, Raymond Wood and Diane Couey; two grandchildren; four greatgrandchildren; and four greatgreat-grandchildren. Burial will take place at a later date at Florida National Cemetery, where she will be interred next to her husband. Online condolences may be made at HaughtFuneralHome. com.

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SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

SIDELINES

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

Pate wins Sarasota tourney Local tennis player Maggie Pate won the Sarasota Sports Club Champions Series Tournament, which took place Saturday, Aug. 27, through Sunday, Aug. 28. Pate, in the 18 and under division, cruised to a 6-0, 6-0 win in her Saturday match and picked up a 6-1, 6-0 win in the Sunday championship round. Her next move is to compete in the USTA Sectional Championship in Delray Beach this weekend.

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

FRIDAY NIGHT NOTES Sports Editor Justin Kline breaks down last week’s Armwood-Plant City game.

Defensive back Cody Cribbs shines against Armwood. Page 14

GAME OF THE WEEK

NEWSOME AT

STRAWBERRY CREST Defensive lineman Connor Smith and the Chargers are looking for that elusive first win since 2014 against Newsome. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS EDITOR

onnor Smith knows a thing or two about tough assignments, as both a defensive lineman and an IB student. Smith, a senior, was one of head coach Ron Hawn’s three “players to watch” in the 2016 Plant City Times & Observer Football Guide. In Hawn’s opinion, Smith handles the offensive linemen in front of him with the same focus and intensity he brings to the classroom. “It’s a lot of long hours, but it’s manageable,” Smith says. Time management is crucial to Smith’s success, and he makes it work by devoting as much time as possible to football and schoolwork. “Really, there’s not a lot of free time during the week,” Smith says. “You’ve got to go right from football to doing homework, and then you’ve got to get enough sleep to manage it all. I would say, on bad days, it could be something like five to six hours. Usually, I can get more than that. It’s not bad every night, but sometimes, projects build up.” The payoff at the end will be worth it: Smith should be able to graduate with enough college credits to have completed his associate’s degree and hopes to get into an academically sound school to study business and economics. At the moment, he’s considering West Point. SEE GAME PAGE 13 Justin Kline

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers once told antsy Greenbay Packers fans to “R-E-L-A-X.” I’m taking his one word of advice and giving it to Raider Nation: relax. There’s no need to get upset or concerned about (almost) anything from the Friday, Aug. 26, 36-16 loss to Armwood, which was a far better outcome than 2015’s. I said something like this to Strawberry Crest fans last week, and I’m saying it again now. I’ll just go ahead and start with the bad stuff, to get it out of the way, before I come through with the good news. Both Armwood and Plant City need to — like, all-caps, screaming, NEED to — give their punt teams as many extra reps in practice as they can handle. Bad snaps killed Armwood’s chances against BradentonManatee in the preseason, and they might have contributed to a loss or a closer score here if the Raiders didn’t have the same problems. In the second half, Armwood got to start almost all of its drives in Plant City territory because of bad snaps and ensuing problems. That’s not going to doom the Raiders against lesser teams, but when you face top competition in the playoffs, it’ll hurt. Fortunately, it’s something that can be fixed between now and November. I’m certain it will be. If this game identified any other weaknesses in Plant City at the moment, it’s the Raiders’ ability to limit mobile quarterbacks. Armwood’s Devin Black, who transferred from district foe Lennard, shredded Plant City with his legs. Armwood didn’t have the same amount of trouble defending Corey King, who plays a similar game, though that may be because that entire team seems loaded with NCAA Power 5 talent. Fortunately, it’s not a problem that will bother the Raiders too often: with Black out of the district, Plant City may not have to face many adept scramblers in its road to the playoffs. Now, I’m not saying that this SEE KLINE PAGE 13

Connor Smith’s intelligence serves him on the field and in the classroom.

Raiders remember Russell Kemp Plant City mourns the loss of former Raiders football player Russell Kemp, who died Friday, Aug. 19. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS EDITOR

Justin Kline

Jonathan Cortes touches gloves with Nicholas McHugh before their fight.

FIGHT NIGHT Plant City Boxing Gym hosted four fights Saturday, Aug. 27.

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS EDITOR

Plant City-area fight fans flocked to Plant City Boxing Gym Saturday, Aug. 27, to see fists fly. The gym hosted a four-fight card, sanctioned by USA Boxing. Three of the four three-round bouts went to decision, including gym member Andres Cruz's win. Although it was the second time the gym has hosted a boxing tournament, it was the first time owner Jose Rodriguez had organized one for his own gym, rather than for a separate entity. “Since we started, it’s been one of our goals, to do that,” Rodriguez says. “It’s a community thing. Lot of people

involved.” Rodriguez credits local businesses, such as Advantage Restoration & Contracting, Sherwin-Williams, My Town Barber Shop and City Cuts, with helping make the show possible. USA Boxing sent judges and referees to the gym to volunteer, and fighters came from Daytona, Clearwater, St. Pete and Apopka. Although the fans enjoyed every fight, Cruz’s match generated the most excitement. The local fighter brought the fans and his family to their feet as he squared up against DeJon Bendezy. Cruz, who has previous fight experience, has trained with SEE FIGHT PAGE 13

After battling stage 4 liver cancer for almost a year and one half, former Plant City High School football player Russell Kemp died Friday, Aug. 19. Kemp’s family and friends at Plant City High School have been celebrating his life. The Raiders football program has been especially supportive. At the Friday, Aug. 26, home football game against Armwood, Plant City held a moment of silence for Kemp, SEE KEMP PAGE 14

Courtesy Photo

Russell Kemp graduated from Plant City High School in 2015.

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PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

GAME OF THE WEEK: NEWSOME AT STRAWBERRY CREST FROM GAME PAGE 12

“I just want to be a leader on the field, make good grades in the classroom and get into a good college,” Smith says. Near the top of Smith’s to-do list, among applying for colleges and keeping on top of his studies, is helping the Chargers taste victory for the first time in two years. The team’s next chance to do so will come against Newsome, which lost its season opener, 23-7, to the Bloomingdale Bulls. Although Smith won’t say much about the Chargers’ strategy, he doesn’t lack confidence. “I think we’re going to bring it to them,” Smith says. “I think we can pitch a shutout.” Hawn’s take is less bold, but still optimistic. Although the Chargers didn’t get so lucky in their Friday, Aug. 26, loss to Brandon — in which the Chargers led after the first quarter and out-gained Brandon on offense — Hawn feels a win isn’t far off for this team. In his opinion, the team just needs to work on its consistency.

“As an offense, our big challenge is going against ourselves and continuing to produce,” Hawn says. “On our second drive of the game against Brandon, we looked like the New England Patriots. The first drive of the game, we looked like the ’76 Buccaneers.” He did credit running back Theo Williams, who gained 91 yards on the ground against the Eagles. If not for penalties, Hawn says, the senior could have topped 120. Losing that game to Brandon, Hawn says, didn’t feel the same as the team’s past losses have. With the team showing improvement, the mood around the locker room is that winning is no longer an “if.” It’s a “when.” “I definitely think there’s improvement on the team,” Smith says. “It’s a different atmosphere that coach Hawn has brought, and we made some mistakes, some penalties, some turnovers, but I really think we’re turning the program around.” Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

THE OTHER GUYS PLANT CITY When: 7:30 p.m. Where: 4401 W. Cypress St., Tampa Plant City had little trouble completing big plays against Armwood in the first half of its Friday, Aug. 26, matchup. The offense and defense played well enough to give the Raiders a 16-14 halftime lead. In addition to getting trouble from Raiders defensive back Cody Cribbs, the Hawks allowed Treshaun Ward to gain 169 yards and two touchdowns. They had little trouble clamping up quarterbacks Corey King and Peyton Cantu, who combined to go 9-of-25 for 58 yards and one interception. But the wheels came off. The Hawks took over the game and left with a 36-16 win. The Raiders will now travel to Tampa to face a Jefferson team that took a 25-20 loss at Tampa Bay Tech Friday, Aug. 26. The Dragons

were able to gain 428 yards of total offense — 215 on the ground, 213 through the air — but were no match for Titans quarterback Marcus Penix Jr., who threw for 233 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions. Meanwhile, Dragons QB Cade Weldon was picked off twice, but he did gain 75 yards and a touchdown with his legs. Although it won’t be as tough a challenge for Plant City, the Raiders may need to be wary of Jefferson’s speed. DURANT When: 7:30 p.m. Where: 4748 Cougar Path, Plant City Hillsborough appeared determined to win against Durant two years in a row by taking control early and handing the Cougars a 17-7 loss Friday, Aug. 26. The Terriers defense shut down the Cougars’ offense almost

entirely, save for a Carlton Potter rushing touchdown. But Potter was held to 10 pass completions on 22 attempts and was picked off twice, while the ground game was held to just 71 total yards — 40 of which came on lead back Jake Harris’s 19 touches. Running back Duran Bell scored the Terriers’ two touchdowns and gained 153 yards on nine carries. Durant will look to rebound Friday, Sept. 2, against Spoto, which eked out a 16-14 home win against a Lennard team that was missing quarterback Devin Black Friday, Aug. 26. The Spartans ran the ball 47 times and had two players — quarterback Anthron Dicks and running back Kobe Smith — eclipse 100 yards. Lennard running back Jahryn Bailey, who had an excellent 2015, scored twice, but only had 10 touches for 42 yards. Stopping the run will be tough for the Cougars, but playing at home should help.

FROM FIGHT PAGE 12

Rodriguez for several months. “He used to fight for another club, and the guy threw him out there,” Rodriguez says. “He wasn’t prepared, so he was kind of skeptical. He lost the fight. I said, ‘Come on, man, you can do this. I’m not going to put you out there if you’re not ready.’” Cruz didn’t have an easy bout, but he persevered through the later rounds and won the favor of the judges. Rodriguez says the next Plant City Boxing Gym show will be held at 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15, at the gym, at 607 Hitchcock St. He’s expecting to put anywhere from 20 to 25 fights on that card, as that date won’t conflict with any other USA Boxing events in the region. Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND? FROM KLINE PAGE 12

definitely contributed to the Raiders’ downfall Aug. 26 but, as a longtime sports fan, I’m a fairly superstitious guy. I’m almost as superstitious as baseball players. And one of my beliefs is that the “I believe that we will win” chant is cursed and always leads to the chanters’ team losing that particular game. I can’t remember a time where I’ve ever heard it and it worked, so hearing it from the home side seats at the 6:49 mark of the first quarter was, for me, foreboding. For the record, I also strongly believe in the curse of the Billy goat, the BasedGod curse and the Buffalo sports curse. Let’s move on to the things Plant City did well. That first half of football was among the best I’ve watched at the high school level, at least in terms of emotion. Although there’s “no cheering in the press box” among journalists, halves like that make it hard to not get emotionally invested in one side or the other. Nothing makes you want to stand up, beat your chest and yell, “Let’s go,” as loud and long as you can like seeing an underdog triumph in real time. Many Raiders played well, but there are two efforts I have to single out. First, there’s Cody Cribbs having what must have been the game of his life: three touchdowns prevented, two on end-zone interceptions. Coming against a team of Armwood’s caliber, that kind of performance speaks volumes about Cribbs as a player and will likely make college scouts’ ears perk up. Second, Treshaun Ward ran the ball better than most sophomores probably would have against a nationally-relevant defense. He scored twice, both times in the second quarter, and showed that the Hawks’ defense probably took the Raiders too lightly until the end of the first half. So, Raider fans, don’t take the bad parts of that Armwood game too seriously. It’s a new week and a new opponent, and those same Raiders players will walk onto Jefferson’s field Friday, Sept. 2, with focus.

Justin Kline is the sports editor at the Plant City Times & Observer. Email: jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

Photos by Justin Kline

Left: Ahmad Jones made quick work of Matthew Halford, winning by TKO in the first round. Above: Andres Cruz won his fight by decision.

PCHS left in Crest’s wake

rea swim fans flocked to the Plant City YMCA Thursday, Aug. 25, to see Plant City and Strawberry Crest go head to head. It was a clean sweep for the Chargers: the boys won, 137-33, and the girls won, 10555. Crest's top times include: Daniel Teske finishing the 100 fly in 54 seconds; the boys relay team (Teske, Robert Haywood, Zane Richardson and Kasen Van Fossen) recording a 1:44 in the 200 medley; and the girls relay team (Celi Guzman, Alexandra Haasser, Indira Alur and Melanie Flott) swimming the 200 medley in two minutes flat. — JUSTIN KLINE

Strawberry Crest’s swimmers were the fastest of the day.

The Plant City Family YMCA pool was perfect for the athletes in the summer heat.

Left: Swimmers stuck on land encouraged their teammates. Below Left: Swimmers got ready to start the backstroke event. Below: Although both Plant City teams lost, they gave a good effort.

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

FROM KEMP PAGE 12

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who had played on the offensive line, before kickoff. Afterward, the student section started a chant in his honor. Coaches and teammates remember him as a diligent worker and a good role model for the team. Wayne Ward, Kemp’s first head coach with the Raiders, appreciated his work ethic. “When I first met him, he was a kid, a young man that was always on time, never late,” Ward says. “First one there, last to leave. He was just a Plant City Raider. That’s the best way I can describe him. He never asked for handouts. Everything he had out on the field, he earned. He didn’t want anybody to feel sorry for him. He looked at (cancer) as a challenge that he wanted to fight, and the young man did an amazing job facing adversity the way he did.” Greg Meyer, who coached Kemp for two years, praised Kemp’s wit and attitude. “Russell was a funny guy,” Meyer says. “Very quick-witted, sharp kid. He had a fantastic sense of humor and was a lot of fun to be around. The thing about Russell that was remarkable, he knew he wasn’t going to get a whole lot of playing time, but he still never changed his effort. He never missed a practice. He would take on the likes of all those guys daily and, despite being completely mismatched, he gave a great effort and got after it as much

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How were you feeling before the game? Before the game, everybody was feeling good about our assignments and everything. We just had to go out there, do our thing and make sure all of our assignments were down pat. We felt pretty good before the game.

What was going through your head before you went onto the field? I was just focusing on doing what I had to do, not trying to get caught up in the whole big play — just focusing in on my guy and making sure that I had to do what I had to do to help out the team.

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I’ve talked to some Raider fans who were a little worried after this loss, even though last year’s run happened after a loss. What would you say to someone who’s starting to freak out about Plant City now? Just don’t worry about it. You’ve got to have faith in us. Nobody expects us to win, but we’ll be there.

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What else are you looking forward to this season? I think just learning from our mistakes and making sure we can get all of our mistakes fixed, so we can come out and play like we did in the first half but on every down.

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PUBLIC AUCTION STORAGE SALE

What’s been the most fun part of being a Raider? Getting to know everybody and

In accordance with the provisions of the Florida Self Storage Act (sections 83.801 - 83.809), there being due and unpaid charges for which the undersigned is entitled to satisfy an owner and/or manager’s lien of the goods hereinafter described and stored at the Uncle Bob’s Self Storage location(s) listed below. And, due notice having been given, to the owner of said property and all parties known to claim an interest therein, and the time specified in such notice for payment of such having expired, the goods will be sold at public auction at the below stated location(s) to the highest bidder or otherwise disposed of on Wednesday, 9:00 am, September 14th, 2016 at 1005 South Alexander Street, Plant City, FL 33563, 813-759-9526.

Wendy Collins Mark Weekly

Sarah Money George Rodriguez Jasmine Melendez Daphne Springfield Joyce Moore Matt Peckos Shaniya Coleman Ismael Hernandez Michael Ford Tamara Hall Natalie Calvin Robert Graves Kimberly Bibler Sarah Swilley Mirtha La Rosa Michael Spangenberg

tutor to anyone that would need it,” Hargrove says. Gibbs High head coach Jon Thompson, who coached Plant City’s offensive line while Kemp was on the team, saw Kemp as an important part of the o-line’s picture. “Russ was incredibly hard-nosed,” Thompson says. “He took coaching real well and was extremely eager to please. He was one of my toughest workers that I had overall. Russ was one of those cats that jumped back in there and wanted to re-do any drill he felt he didn’t do well enough in. We had studs at Plant City, but Russ was able to start and play on senior night and did a really great job, and it was a culmination of all the hard work that he put into it.” Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

UNCLE BOB’S SELF STORAGE #099

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becoming a family, really, with everybody on the team. What was the moment when everything kind of fell into place, and you started to feel like it was a brotherhood and not just a bunch of kids from school? Whenever we came back in the locker room, everybody was going crazy. That’s when I felt like we were starting to get there. The Armwood game? Yeah. What’s a position you’ve never played but always wanted to? Running back.

the game. When I was in the press box, the guys doing the radio broadcast were giving you nicknames. I heard a couple of them. Let me run these by you and get your opinion, starting with “Cody ‘Not in My’ Cribbs.” I think that’s pretty funny. The other one was “Cody ‘MTV’ Cribbs.” I’ve heard people call me that at school, but I didn’t really know what they meant, at first.

What about a sport? Hockey. Definitely hockey. What’s your favorite football team? The Miami Dolphins. What’s your dream college? FSU. A little kid comes to you for football advice. What do you tell him? I’d tell him just to keep working hard, and don’t ever quit. Even if you feel like you’re about to die, you just have to keep going that extra mile, keep putting one foot in front of the other. You get $1 billion. What do you buy? I’d probably give my brother some money for college. Who’s the best Madden player in the locker room? I don’t play Madden, but I hear Corey St. John talking a lot of smack about Madden. They try to talk back to him, but they just settle it with

Raiders start strong, finish slow in 36-16 loss Photos by Justin Kline

Far Left: Plant City students showed their love for Harambe. Left: Corey King hands off to Treshaun Ward, who got plenty of work that night. Below: Treshaun Ward scored two rushing touchdowns.

INVENTORY

Hsld gds, Furn Household goods and personal items, Tools and toys, Sports equipment, Sinks and fans, Coolers and boxes Hsld gds, Furn Hsld gds, Furn Hsld gds, Furn Hsld gds, Furn, TV/Stereo Equip, Tool/Applian Hsld gds, Furn Hsld gds, Furn Hsld gds, Furn Hsld gds, Furn Hsld gds, Furn Hsld gds, Furn Hsld gds, Furn Hsld gds, Furn Hsld gds, Furn, TV/Stereo Equip, Boxes Hsld gds, Furn, Tool/Applian Hsld gds, Furn Trailer, VIN-#4UBASOM23T1UO3165, YR-1996, Make-SNBK, Body-TV, Florida Title-#82761136

1005 SOUTH ALEXANDER STREET PLANT CITY, FL 33563 PHONE: (813) 759-9526 FAX: (813) 759-9481

as he could. He was a fantastic team player with a great attitude, and he was a lot of fun to be around.” Kenkhari Green, who played with Kemp on the offensive line, says Kemp’s demeanor had a positive effect on his own. “He had a major impact on me,” Green says. “He was one of the hardest workers I’d ever seen. He never let anything knock him down … riding in the car with coach (Jon) Thompson, he used to sing to every rock song that came on.” Teammate Markese Hargrove says not only did Kemp’s positive attitude affect players on the field, it affected them in the classroom. “His locker was next to mine. Every day was something different with him, and he was the type of person to always make your day better — even if it was already good. Everybody else respected him … when we had study hall hours, Russell was an amazing

Although the Plant City Raiders’ game against Armwood ended in a 36-16 loss, it could have been worse. Luckily, defensive back Cody Cribbs had one solid performance: two endzone interceptions and three touchdowns prevented. Cribbs, a junior, is in his second year with the varsity team.

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Paid on-the-job-training to start in September For more information call 813-359- 2616 AA/ADA/EOE/E-Verify Employer

CUSTOMER NAME

— Wayne Ward, Russell Kemp’s first head coach

Cody Cribbs

Seasonal Fruit & Vegetable Inspectors for Ruskin & Mulberry

Mike & Hope Williams, Owners

“He never asked for handouts. Everything he had out on the field, he earned. He didn’t want anybody to feel sorry for him. He looked at (cancer) as a challenge that he wanted to fight, and the young man did an amazing job facing adversity the way he did.”

big first half had Raider Nation on its feet Friday, Aug. 26. Although the second half was a different story, Plant City improved on its 2015 performance and ran the ball well. —JUSTIN KLINE

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

I LOVE PLANT CITY

FORECAST FRIDAY, SEPT. 2

SATURDAY, SEPT. 3 High: 87 Low: 74 Chance of rain: 60%

High: 91 Low: 74 Chance of rain: 60%

High: 92 Low: 74 Chance of rain: 60%

OKRA

Chris wins at free car wash from Octopus Car Wash. He can claim it with an ID at 1503 S. Collins St.

Shipping point: Orlando $12 to $12.85

Do you have a photo that speaks to the personality of Plant City? Submit it to Managing Editor Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@ plantcityobserver.com. Courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture

B U L C c a W Ky

XPRESS WASH

1 Part of a profit calculation 5 Be a bad winner 10 USMA newcomer 14 Rum-soaked cakes 19 Big name in the oil biz 20 Travis or Quaid 21 Locale 22 Alas’s partner 23 ___ gin fizz 24 Remove a tube’s top 25 Pull forcefully 26 One with a life of ease? 27 Under-taking quip (Part 1) 31 Nebraskan’s river 32 Dazzles 33 Some jungle creatures 34 Military base 35 Is mistaken 36 Got up in years 37 Do a landscaping chore 40 Writer’s cramp, e.g. 43 Stand at the banquet 44 Leave flabbergasted 45 Overhead circle of light 46 Road goop 47 Certain extinct feline 52 Refinable rock 53 Like a heavy fog 54 Kind of group or pressure 55 Pungent veggie 56 Be part of the picture 57 Fancy wrap 58 Brown alternative 59 Do a math task 60 Under-taking quip (Part 2) 69 Be remorseful about 70 Word in a sale price 71 Dangerous for driving 72 “Caught in the act!” 73 Violin bow coating 76 Some spa applications 77 Leisurely stroll 80 Acquired 81 They put people to sleep 85 Prior to, in old times 86 Restless craving 87 Creative thought 88 Look at amorously 89 Cook’s cover-up 91 Part of an email address 92 Lost traction 93 Long-running Broadway musical 94 San Antonio hoopster 96 Body powder 97 Top rating 98 Accountants’ activities 101 Under-taking quip (Part 3) 10 Unhealthy emission 109 “Contendere” preceder 110 Keeps for a rainy day 111 Etc.’s cousin 112 Trade talk 113 Sailing the bounding main 114 Undo, as writing 115 Kind of traffic, informally 116 Minimal complaints 117 Response to “Shall we?” 118 Seasons, as soup

1. G I P I F E V I 2. R I D U Q S 3. E S S F A C C U M A 4. W E O P A F 5. P I Q S G I O Q K

This athlete was champ from 1919 to 1926:

SUDOKU

Solve the puzzle by placing the numbers 1 Sept 1 (Easy, difficulty rating 0.30) through 9 in each row, column and box.

6 4 3

7 7 1

8 6

1 6 1 9

8 7

7:48p

Sunday, Sept. 4

7:08a

7:47p

Monday, Sept. 5

7:09a

7:45p

Tuesday, Sept. 6

7:09a

7:44p

Wednesday, Sept. 7

7:10a

7:43p

Thursday, Sept. 8

7:10a

7:42p

Sept. 9 First

Sept. 16 Full

Thursday, Aug. 25

0.00

Friday, Aug. 26

0.09

Saturday, Aug. 27

0.04

Sunday, Aug. 28

0.47

Monday, Aug. 29

0.02

Tuesday, Aug. 30

1.02

Wednesday, Aug. 31

0.00

YEAR TO DATE:

AUG. TO DATE:

2016 36.85 in.

2016 9.43 in.

2015 23.59 in.

2015

7.30 in.

$ 00

We give a fast, clean car wash finished off with hand toweling. You won’t waste your time here! Detail services also available!

Mon - Sat. 8am - 7pm Sunday 9am - 6pm

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ACROSS

Each of the following cryptograms is a clue to the identity of a sports legend. Using the hints I=O and F=R, decipher the clues to name the athlete.

7:08a

CROSSWORD

CRYPTOQUIZ

4 5

Saturday, Sept. 3

214648

WEDNESDAY

1503 S. Collins Street 813-754-0777

9 1

7:49p

FREE Vacuum

d Unlimite

t only a g n i t r a St month r e p 5 9 $17.

7:07a

RAINFALL

Chris Parker captured the Raiders’ field at Plant City High School.

Friday, Sept. 2

Sept. 30 Sept. 23 New Last

MONDAY, SEPT. 5

Sunrise Sunset

MOON PHASES

SUNDAY, SEPT. 4

H S A W

6 3 Sept 1 (Easy, difficulty rating 0.30)

9 2 6 4 3 5

8 7

3 1

2 4 6

8 9 7

8 4 2 6 1

2 7

3 5

1 9

4 9 6 8

SUNRISE / SUNSET

High: 85 Low: 76 Chance of rain: 80%

Congratulations to this week’s I Love PC Winner. Stop in for your FREE Car Wash.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

119 “I ___ to recall ...”

DOWN

1 Till contents 2 Ship deck 3 Unfriendly look 4 Boot reinforcements 5 Weightlifting sounds 6 Surgical knife 7 On a single occasion 8 One of TV’s Cartwrights 9 Make striking sentences? 10 Scornful dismissals 11 Fibbers 12 Notions holder 13 Surround with trouble 14 Like a cell window 15 Wanted-poster datum 16 Indonesian resort island 17 Air heroes 18 Type of terrier 28 Parts of molecules 29 Partial statue 30 Disburse 35 Listening devices 36 Site of the 2004 Summer Olympics 37 Epiphany threesome

38 Butter replacement 39 Like bald tires 40 Relative of a weasel 41 Deprive of rain 42 Sharp-crested ridge 43 Bear’s abode 44 Dictation whiz 45 Believer in karma 48 Brick dried in the sun 49 Steady guy 50 Oil moguls’ org. 51 “Hot” winter drink 57 Main impact of an attack 58 ___ one’s trade (work) 59 Sporty scarf 61 “When ___ Eyes Are Smiling” 62 Lit a fire under, so to speak 63 Home of the Taj Mahal 64 “And another thing ...” 65 Evens a score 66 Like beavers, it’s said 67 Complete (var.) 68 Like some breakfast cereals 73 Catastrophe for a bookie 74 Word after “catch” or “hang” 75 Split-off group 76 Having curative properties

77 Female rhyme masters 78 Distinct periods of history 79 Title for Galahad 82 Joggers’ challenges 83 Plain, in Spain 84 Iraqi neighbor 90 Some hedge shrubs 92 New Orleans squad 93 Wintertime quaffs 94 Least perilous 95 They’re checked for signs of life 96 Scouts’ unit 97 Shoelace end 99 Church’s tenth 100 Type of drum 101 Spider’s web, e.g. 102 Fabled race loser 103 Cutting side of a blade 104 Eyeglasses support 105 “GWTW” plantation 106 Model train layout, often 107 Feeling blue

PLANT CITY TIMES & OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2016

~ Ron W., a patient of South Florida Baptist Hospital

The Care You Need, When You Need It. Ron had always been healthy and active. But then he faced a life-threatening blood clot. Ron chose South Florida Baptist Hospital for their advanced technology and the

Our Specialties:

excellent care he knew he’d receive. A member of the community since 1953, South

n ER: Efficient medical treatment for minor or major emergencies and illnesses

Florida Baptist Hospital was built on quality, compassionate care. You’ll find a highly skilled and experienced team that works to make patients and visitors as comfortable as possible during their hospital experience. When you’re treated at South Florida Baptist Hospital, you’ll feel at home, close to home — all your health care needs are covered, without ever leaving Plant City.

Choose South Florida Baptist Hospital. Learn more: SouthFloridaBaptistCare.org

n Surgery: Large operating rooms, high-tech equipment and spacious recovery rooms create a pleasant environment for patients n Heart: State-of-the-art heart and vascular center offering cardiac diagnostic services and procedures

BC1605583-0816

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