1.3.19 PLCO by Plant City Observer

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VOLUME 6, NO. 27

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Ken Alan Gibbs

August 23, 1965 – December 27, 2018

SEE PAGE 7

THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

MIDTOWN ON HORIZON A RFP has officially been placed for a developer for the Midtown district. SEE PAGE 10

PCPD ARMORED TACTICAL

VEHICLE HAS ARRIVED

POST OFFICE CLEANUP

The City of Plant City has closed on the former post office found on Reynolds Street in the heart of downtown Plant City. On Monday a general services crew began cleaning up the property and on Friday the city will conduct a full assessment to determine how to proceed with the long abandoned location. City Manager Bill McDaniel said there will be cleanup all week with the nearby landscaping as the city improves the aesthetics for downtown while they finish the plans for the property. Breanne Williams

The armored tactical vehicle is the size of an ambulance and weighs approximately 19,000 lbs.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

THE PLANT CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT NOW HAS AN ARMORED TACTICAL VEHICLE IN ITS LINEUP. TRAINING HAS BEGUN AND IT IS READY TO USE SHOULD AN EMERGENCY ARISE.

n Sept. 2017 city commissioners approved allotting $335,000 in funding for the Plant City Police Department to purchase an armored tactical vehicle. Once approved the car was hand built and after it was completed two officers flew north to the warehouse in Nov. 2018 to begin training for the BearCat vehicle. It arrived in Plant City in December and teams have been working with the vehicle to learn its ins and outs so they are prepped and ready if an emergency should arise.

“This is a piece of equipment you hope you’ll never have to use, but if you need it, it’s worth every penny you pay for it,” Police Chief Ed Duncan said. For Duncan, the purchase was a nobrainer. In storms, like the hurricanes that have struck over the past few years, all first responder vehicles are called off the road when winds exceed 45 to 50 mph. The BearCat allows units to be safely deployed and assist in any emergencies.

SEE PAGE 3

Florida’s maniacal champion BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

TIM DORSEY IS HEADED TO BRUTON MEMORIAL LIBRARY NEXT WEEK TO SHARE HIS LATEST BOOK, “NO SUNSCREEN FOR THE DEAD.”HIS ECLECTIC STORIES HAVE CAPTURED THE HEARTS OF READERS FOR DECADES.

SEE PAGE 8

courtesy of Tim Dorsey. Dorsey’s latest novel, “No Sunscreen for the Dead” comes out Jan. 15..

SANTA SLED HELPS HUNDREDS

Each year the Des’ Aimes Social Club and Plant City Black Heritage host the Santa Sled Festival to help local families have a stress-free Christmas. The groups give out toys, bicycles, clothes and groceries for a complete Christmas dinner to participating families. Thanks to many local sponsors and the generosity of the community the event was able to serve the hundreds of guests that flooded to Marie B. Ellis Park on Dec. 22. See full story online at plantcityobserver.com.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

NEWS BRIEFS

MLK Festival schedule The schedule for the 33rd Plant City Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Cultural Arts Festival has been released, so residents can plan accordingly to celebrate starting next weekend.

Jan. 12: Author James McDaniel Book Signing (Bing House) Jan. 12: IMPACT Conference (Greater New Hope Anointed Ministries) Jan. 13 to 18: Self-Guided Selfie Scavenger Hunt of Plant City Jan. 18: Opening Ceremony (Marshall Middle School) Jan. 18: Poetry Night (Bing House) Jan. 19: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Parade (Downtown) Jan. 19: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street Fest (MLK Community Center Main Baseball Field) Jan. 19: Drumline Battle for area middle and high schools

Jan. 20: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Leadership Breakfast (Trinkle Center at HCC) Jan. 21: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Community Service Jan. 26: Health Fair (Mt. Olive Baptist Church)

Starbucks to close for renovations Starbucks lovers of Plant City should expect to take a detour for much of January.The store at 2701 Thonotosassa Road will be closed for renovations beginning this Sunday, Jan. 6. An exact ending date has not been specified, but the store is expected to re-open during the week of Jan. 28. The closest Starbucks locations to Plant City are 1265 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon and at 1314 Town Center Dr. in the Lakeside Village shopping center in Lakeland.

Best of Plant City voting The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce’s annual Best of Plant City awards will be handed out on Jan. 24, but you’ll be able to cast your votes as early as Jan. 7. Voting opens Monday and runs through Jan. 14. You may cast votes online at bestofplantcity.com in 14 categories. Business of the Year Award Best Community Event Award Community Service Award Customer Service Award Entrepreneur of the Year Award Employer of the Year Award Health & Wellness Award Non-Profit Award New Business Award Small Business Award Economic Development Award Downtown Enrichment Award Rising Leader Award Spirit of the Chamber Award

HCSO investigates drive-by shooting Two people were struck by bullets in a Plant City drive-by shooting on New Year’s Day. The shooting occurred at Tavern 92 on County Line Road and left one man in critical condition while another was grazed by a shot. Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office deputies are looking into the incident and were not immediately able to determine suspects or vehicle descriptions.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

BRINGING HOME THE

BEARCAT Chief Duncan plans to slowly bring the new vehicle out to showcase to the public so the community gets used to seeing it around town.

BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The team assigned to the BearCat will be fully trained in all of its operations.

Outside of natural disaster situations, the vehicle can also be used to save lives. Prior to Duncan’s tenure, PCPD faced a fatal incident where a vehicle like the BearCat could have made all the difference. Members of the PCPD SWAT team said they believed the incident took place in 2002. There was a call about a domestic violence incident and when officers arrived at the scene they found a woman lying in her front yard, a bullet wound preventing her from crawling away to safety. The gunman was in the house and the team could not safely get between the shooter and the victim to remove her from the premises. Eventually, they strapped ballistic vests to the side of a vehicle and quickly drove in to rescue the woman. But it was too late. In 2001 PCPD responded to an active shooter at a Save-A-Lot warehouse on Amberjack Blvd.

One employee was wounded and the gunman set fire to the office before he surrendered. If there were ever a need the city would call neighboring groups, like Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, to bring their vehicles to the scene. Every minute spent waiting for the vehicle to arrive is a minute the department couldn’t spare and Duncan said it was time PCPD had one of its own. “This tremendously enhances our ability to respond to a multitude of incidents,” Duncan said. “Really and truly it has such an enhancement for our force. The capability of that piece of equipment is only limited by your imagination.” When Duncan was with HCSO they purchased similar vehicles for its inventory. That was more than a decade ago and the same vehicles are still going strong. With care, Duncan said you can get anywhere from 20 to 25 years out of each piece of equipment.

The PCPD SWAT team practiced drills with the new piece of equipment.

The vehicle has platforms for team members to ride inside, behind or even on the sides of the vehicle.

In 2017 when the budget for the vehicle was approved several outside groups protested the decision. Duncan said despite their complaints to commissioners and the media they never asked him for a meeting. He knows some people may not approve of the purchase, but he has no hesitation saying he will defend it until the day he dies. “People may say, ‘Well how often does that happen in Plant City?’ But look at Pulse, look at Parkland. Do you think anyone thought it would happen there?” Duncan said. “This is a preventative action. It’s another tool in our toolbox to use.” The rise of school shootings is something Duncan doesn’t take lightly. Unfortunately, authorities now prepare for a “when it happens,” not an “if it happens” scenario. Several Plant City school grounds are massive in size, making it a potential nightmare

if someone with nefarious intent were to ever set their sites on local school children. Having the BearCat at the ready means officers can barrel into a conflict zone without having to hesitate or make sure they slowly and safely clear the area. Their response time is heavily reduced and Duncan said he’ll always take the heat for being over prepared than having to live with the consequences if they didn’t have what they needed in a time of crisis. The entire team assigned to the BearCat has operational knowledge of the vehicle. There are designated drivers and though it is relatively easy to drive it is 19,000 lbs — approximately the size of an ambulance — and will be steered with caution. Duncan wants the public to become comfortable with the massive equipment so he plans to showcase it either at a city commission meeting or possibly in

the Strawberry Grand Parade. He said he doesn’t want the public to get the wrong impression with the vehicle and to view it as a lifesaving tool. “This is going to only enhance our ability as a department,” Duncan said. “I have no regrets about the purchase. We are better off serving the public with this in our inventory.”

The possibilities for the use of the armored vehicle are "only limited to our imagination," according to Chief Duncan.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

PLANT CITY

Observer Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2018

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TO ADVERTISE Call (813) 704-6850 The annual Santa Sled Festival was held on Dec. 22 at Marie B. Ellis Park. The Des’ Aimes Social Club and Plant City Black Heritage host the event every year to ensure local families have a stressfree and merry Christmas. During the festival, the children can play on bounce houses and enjoy fun games. Free meals are provided for everyone as well. Then the participating families are given toys and a Christmas meal. Dozens of bicycles and lots of new clothes are also given out throughout the event.

Breanne Williams

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Plant City Observer now 100 percent locally owned

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BREANNE WILLIAMS

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their day of choice or for the entire week. “My life has been full of twists and turns and I’ve been lucky enough to have had opportunities to learn so many different skills,” Letterfly said. “These workshops are for anyone, but I created them with young people in mind. They don’t have the situations available that I had to learn how to do this, how to create this type of art.”

SEE PAGE 2

PCHS Theatre troupe prepares for states BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Students in PCHS’s Theatre Troupe 1449 enchanted judges at districts, receiving a superior and were given the opportunity to participate in the state competition.

SEE PAGE 2

Redecorating for the holiday The Sadye Gibbs Martin Auditorium in City Hall is currently undergoing repairs. Commissioners approved a budget of $160,000 to purchase a variety of new media systems and equipment to enhance the meetings and experiences in the auditorium. The room is under renovation and will kick off the new year with a new look.

Courtesy of Audrey Schmidt

The students performed Harvey in the One-Act competition.

Happy New Year! With the start of the

are committed to bringing you the best news opment, our weekly issues offer the latest analysis on the state of the city. new year, the Plant City Observer is starting in a timely manner. Every Thursday a new print edition is What does this mean to you? Hopefully a new, old venture. First let’s delve into the you have noticed the design changes. We delivered throughout the city and breaking background. The Plant City Observer was born from have a new masthead, although the name will news is updated daily online. This week’s Celebrity Cipher answersAs we say hello to 2019, we bid a grateful same. the minds of a small group of Plant City remain the We will continue connect you to events goodbye to the Observer Media Group. residents. Their mission was to build a local Puzzle Oneto Solution: Please let us know how we may serve you, that are important to you and paper, a hyperlocal voice, to keep residents and issues “I have always been delighted atour the our community, better. We encourage your in a paper that will continue to informed of happenings in Plant City and community prospect of a new day, a fresh try, one input. Follow us online at our Facebook, also to introduce residents to the people that be better with each issue. – J.B. Priestley Twitter and Instagram accounts for the latWe actmore as anstart.” advocate and give your views call Plant City home. est news and updates on the city we all hold We deliver local news and informaAt the onset, the group teamed up with the a voice. Puzzle Two Solution: so dear. our community that you can’t find Observer Media Group and their CEO, Matt tion about “I like to challenge myself. I like to learn Please email us at info@plantcityobservWalsh, to bring this dream to reality. OMG anywhere else. so Ihas likeato try newcommunity, things and try Plant – City thriving oneto er.com. We look forward to continuing our was and still is very successful in publishing – David Schwimmer commitment to serve Plant City. oftengrowing.” goes overlooked. It is crucial weekly newspapers throughout Florida. For that tookeep We are proud to be your hometown comsix and half years its team provided a strong to us those hidden stories continue to be told, base, helping build the Plant City Observer that those who open their hearts to others munity newspaper. This week’s Sudoku answers don’t go unrecognized. up so it could prosper and stand on its own. Our city has unwavering traditions, but Now, as of this issue on Jan. 3, 2019, we are standing on our own. The Plant City is also on the verge of a new tomorrow. So Karen Berry, Publisher Observer is 100 percent Plant City owned. much is on the horizon and we look forward kberry@plantcityobserver.com The original core is still in place — Ed Vern- to keeping you up to date on all of the latest Facebook: Plant City Observer er, Felix Haynes and Nate Kilton— and along decisions and news to come out of the city. Whether it’s giving an inside look at the Instagram: @plcobserver the way I joined the group. We live, work and week’s Celebrity Cipher answers Florida Strawberry Festival or monitoring Twitter: @PlantObserver raiseThis families right here in Plant City. In addition,Puzzle the entire staff lives in Plant City. We the city as it paves the way for future develOne Solution:

“I have always been delighted at the prospect of a new day, a fresh try, one more start.” – J.B. Priestley Puzzle Two Solution: “I like to challenge myself. I like to learn – so I like to try new things and try to keep growing.” – David Schwimmer

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The Plant City Observer is published by Plant City Media LLC.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

PCPD Joins County In DUI Campaign New Year’s Eve is one of the deadliest nights for drivers. PCPD partnered with Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and Florida Highway Patrol in a joint DUI Enforcement campaign to keep drivers safe throughout the new year. Courtesy of HCSO

A joint DUI Enforcement campaign was held on New Year's Eve with local law enforcement. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The Plant City Police Department joined forces with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and Florida Highway Patrol for a DUI Enforcement campaign on New Year’s Eve. Ringing in the new year is a tradition celebrated by millions of Americans, however, it is also one of the most dangerous nights on the road. If the holiday falls on a weekend, it is usually the deadliest day of the year to drive, according to AAA. “We do enforcement countywide, but then there was a contingent of deputies and our guys that actually worked for them for Eastern Hillsborough,” Sgt. Al Van Duyne, spokesman for PCPD, said. “We actually didn’t get any in Plant City this year, but what they do is they brought their DUI vehicle — they call it the Batmobile — and they parked it at the old police department. That kind

of serves as the central receiving area.” There were approximately 30 arrests for DUI violations on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day in Hillsborough County, according to arrest reports. Several of those involved residents from Plant City. The majority of the arrests were made after midnight as people left their parties and bars and began to travel home. As the deputies worked in Brandon, Seffner and Dover, Van Duyne said they would drive to Plant City rather than having to take the DUI arrests all the way to Orient Road Jail. The deputies would take the inebreated drivers, administer a breathalyzer and then send them with a detention deputy in a transport vehicle to jail. According to the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles, Hillsborough County leads the state in DUI original violations in 2017. There were 4,499 origi-

nal violations, topping the charts though other counties like Pinellas (3,155), Broward (3,104) and Miami-Dade (3,099) followed. Across the state, there were 43,899 DUI violation tickets issued in 2017, according to the DMV. Of those, there were 24,334 DUI convictions. The enforcement of the tickets arises from a partnership of local law enforcement. Florida Highway Patrol issued 7,612 of the 43,899 tickets, police departments issued 17,530 tickets and 18,056 were issued by Florida Sheriff's departments. Florida has taken steps to crack down on reckless driving. State law mandates that anyone who was convicted of a second DUI has to have an Ignition Interlock device installed in the vehicle. A judge can decide against putting one in the car if it is someone’s first offense. Florida also has the Implied Consent Law, meaning when you sign your driver’s license you

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agree to submit to chemical tests of your breath, blood or urine to determine alcohol or drug content if a law enforcement officer asks you too. Refusing results in a suspended license. Also, anyone convicted of a DUI under the age of 21 automatically has their license suspended for six months. “Alcohol-impaired drivers are involved in approximately onethird of all motor vehicle deaths,” reads a study by the AAA. “An average of one alcohol-impaireddriving death occurs every 45 minutes. Each year, impaireddriving crashes cost the U.S. more than $50 billion.” Van Duyne said they know Plant City is not immune to the devastation that frequently is caused by drunk or impaired drivers. He was recently in talks with PCPD Chief Ed Duncan and he said the plan is to “ramp up” their efforts in 2019 to tackle the serious issue. The tentative plan is to have at least a quarterly focus on DUIs

where officers, specifically those in the motorcycle division, will work special shifts to focus on inebriated drivers. “We’re probably going to work our shifts through 3 or 4 a.m.,” Van Duyne said. “Those extremely late hours, that’s when the majority of the DUIs take place. For us, it’s been a little bit of trial and error. You work through 2 o’clock in the morning, but that’s just when the clubs and bars are closing. So if you live in Brandon, from Ybor at 2:15 you’ll catch a bad guy, but if you live in Valrico, Seffner, Dover, Plant City you’re talking 2:44 or 3 o’clock before those people come back.” Though traditionally Plant City never sees large numbers of DUIs, Van Duyne said even one instance is one too many. With the new focus on preventing the crimes, he said hopefully PCPD will be able to keep Plant City a safe place to live.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

LOCAL VIRTUOSO TAKES MUSIC SCENE BY STORM Zachary Frankowiak is making waves with his musical talent, putting Plant City on the map and showing there is a hidden well of talent right here at the edge of Tampa Bay. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

A music prodigy has been putting Plant City on the map thanks to his colossal talent. Zachary James Frankowiak is a junior at Plant City High School and fell in love with music when he delved into the concept of music theory in middle school. He learned to write and compose tracks and soon his plans of growing up and working in the tech field began to shift. “Music isn’t supposed to be something that passes the time by, it’s supposed to encapsulate their entire focus,” Frankowiak said. “This type of music, it has a deeper meaning than many of the pop songs you listen to. What we can covey, it can be very special. I don’t think a lot of people understand how hard it is to play the type of music we do.” Frankowiak can play a variety of instruments, but is irreproachable with the flute. He is the only Plant City student to currently have been accepted to the Tampa Metropolitan Youth Orchestra and plays for the prestigious symphony orchestra. Recently he also was invited to participate in the USF Festival of Winds and was honored with the position of first chair. Though he has been accepted to local legendary arts schools he said he was passionate to join the renaissance PCHS was experiencing in its band program. He’s involved in nearly every aspect of the group — including the jazz band — and is spearheading a movement to break off into smaller bands and perform frequently around town to increase awareness of the school’s talent. His success and deep-rooted passion is all thanks to his mentors, which have come in a variety of forms ranging from a middle school teacher to his band director. They recognized his talent and fanned the flame, helping Frankowiak transform from an average pupil to an exemplary talent. His competitive nature only helped ease the transition. “I went to a camp at USF and it got very competitive,” Frankowiak said. “When I saw how good

everyone was there I knew I had to practice harder so I could be at their level. Over that summer I practiced every day. When I went back to school it was like I was an entirely different musician.” That dedication only deepened as the years passed. Frankowiak practices the fundamentals every day to ensure he continues to master all aspects of his instruments and that his dexterity never falls. Yet when the time came to audition for the Tampa Met he said he was convinced he wasn’t going to make it. “I had never played in an orchestra before, it was the real stuff,” Frankowiak said. “I remember the audition. It was so intimidating. I was watching these other musicians in awe. I honestly wasn’t expecting to be accepted… I played the piccolo for them because no one else seemed interested in the chair. That’s one thing I always try to be, versatile.” He’s only a junior and has already played alongside the Florida Orchestra at the University of South Florida via his involvement in groups like the TMYO. The experiences he’s been a part of have changed his life and he’s learned to strive for perfection and always seek growth. As graduation looms he said he and his teacher have been training for his auditions to some of the most esteemed music schools in the nation. His ultimate dream would be to build a career as a solo artist and in an orchestra. He’s the first in his family to have an artistic gift and he’s pursuing it with everything he has. “My teacher, he always tells me, ‘If you shoot for the moon you’ll always miss, but if you shoot for the stars you’ll land on the moon,’” Frankowiak said. He’s learned the music industry, as in so many things, is political. So much of the experience revolves around who you know and what your credentials are. Luckily he’s making the necessary connections to help secure a bright future, but he said his hope is he’ll be able to help open those doors for his fellow students.

Breanne Williams

Though in recent years it’s excelled across the board, the school still doesn’t resonate in people’s minds as being prolific with talented artists and musicians. The band is currently evolving into what Frankowiak believes will be a powerhouse program. But there is still much work to do. A big hurdle is getting the community to come out and support the students. “Everyone expects us to be ‘Plant City,’ they don’t expect us to be able to excel at our competitions,” Frankowiak said. “The past two years we’ve received an excellent and we just got an overall superior. We are improving and really showing that Plant City has talent. One of the things in the back of my mind is if I keep doing what I’m doing it may inspire more people. The more people I can get on board at this level the better it will be for our entire community.”

Frankowiak’s hope is to inspire local musicians to take their talents to the next level and pursue higher roles.

Courtesy of Zachary Frankowiak Jr.

Zachary at the TMYO during the last concert of the season.

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Ken Alan Gibbs August 23, 1965 – December 27, 2018

GIL GOTT SPECIAL TO THE OBSERVER

A Man for All Seasons is a story about a man of principle, loved by the common people and by his family. Ken Alan Gibbs was a man of highest principle — indeed a man for all seasons, beloved by all he met. His mother wrote of his “being a gentle, funny, kind, thoughtful, and smart son.” It was also said, “He loved, gave and served with no boundaries. He led by example.” Ken was all that was said of him and more. Ken Gibbs, 53, passed away December 27, 2018, in Plant City. He was born in Lakeland on August 23, 1965, was a lifelong resident of Plant City and a fifth-generation Floridian. Ken graduated from Plant City High School in the class of 1983. He was a standout on the tennis court and a member of the Leo Club. He was a leader of the Teens for Christ organization through high school. That passion would carry him for the rest of his years. Ken attended Palm Beach Atlantic College, a comprehensive faith-based school in West Palm Beach, from 1983 through 1986. There he met the love of his life, Debbie Fender. Ken and Debbie have been happily married for 32 years. They homeschooled their seven children, Sara, Andrew (Lauren), Paul, Luke, Nathaniel, Anna and Philip. On Sunday mornings, and at other times he deemed necessary, Ken led them in their Bible studies. While at Palm Beach Atlantic, Ken followed his mother’s teaching of Proverbs 16:16: “How much better it is to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be cho-

sen above silver.” He organized outreach programs, including a “Street Ministry” through which he brought sandwiches and encouragement to the homeless and needy. Following studies at Palm Beach Atlantic College, Ken, by that time an ordained minister, served locally as an associate pastor and youth minister at Knights Baptist Church. In 1987 he joined Jack T. Gibbs, Realtor and worked with his father Jack, brother Doug and was later followed by his son Andrew in the family real-estate company that was established by his grandfather Jack Gibbs in 1954. Ken was a Realtor and a member of the local, state and national association of Realtors for 31 years. His experience includes residential, agricultural acreage, commercial and industrial properties. Ken specialized in land development and asset enhancement. He had the know-how to oversee projects through site selection, annexation, rezoning and platting; design and construction of infrastructure and improvements; and marketing of developed property. Aside from real estate, people have shared how he had helped them in kindness, wisdom and encouragement. A close friend, Ed Verner, and Ken could often be found bending over a table concentrating on their next move on the ever-present chess board while downing a lunch at Applebee’s. Ken was also almost a daily fixture at City Properties Co., a business advisor to Verner and his various ventures. They were very close. Ed Verner was asked to give the eulogy. “Ken was first and foremost a man of God. He was a beacon who every day modeled

how to love and live life while serving the Lord,” Verner said. Ken had wide and diverse interests He was a Civil War buff, reading in depth about the struggle between the states. He loved local history, participating in some of the Photo Archives activities. He immersed himself in biblical teachings and history. He and his family loved the Bruton Memorial Library and the many resources offered there. He was also a Star Trek fan. Devoted to his community, Ken’s civic activities included service in the Plant City Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the Kiwanis Club of Plant City, the Christmas for an Angel committee, the Plant City Outstanding Citizen of the Year Committee and the Plant City Photo Archives Advisory Council. He was also a recipient of the Legion of Honor Award. Survivors include his wife, Debbie Fender Gibbs, their seven children, his parents, Jack T. and Elizabeth (Cook) Gibbs, and sister-in-law Carole Wright. He was preceded in death by his brother Doug “Gibber” Gibbs. Funeral Services are Thursday, Jan. 3, 2019, at Plant City First Baptist Church, 3309 James L. Redman Pkwy. Visitation is from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Service is at 11 a.m. at the church. Burial will take place at Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Ken Gibbs Family Education Fund, Hillsboro Bank, 509 W. Alexander St., Plant City, FL.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

Florida’s Vigilante Antihero Bestselling author Tim Dorsey has taken readers on adventures throughout the state of Florida for nearly 20 years. He’s stopping by the Bruton Memorial Library next week to share his latest book, “No Sunscreen for the Dead.”

Courtesy of Tim Dorsey

Dorsey is headed to Bruton to discuss his latest novel and chat with fans about his character and writing journey.

Courtesy of Tim Dorsey

Florida is a state unlike any other and fans have fallen in love with Dorsey's twisted, but endearing, tales set throughout the state. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

Tim Dorsey is making a special appearance in Plant City ahead of the release of his new book, “No Sunscreen for the Dead.” Dorsey has captivated readers since 1999 with his gothic and comical tales centered around the problematic, but endearing character Serge A. Storms. Each of his 21 books — 22 if you count the Christmas novella — are set in the heart of Florida and follow Storms on a twisted adventure full of elaborately savage violence and witty dialogue that causes readers to laugh out loud. “In a way the main character is a mouthpiece for Florida, he’s my mouthpiece for Florida,” Dorsey said. “I grew up here and I’ve lived here long enough to have such great memories. I just love practically everything about this state. I love nature and state parks and the national parks and I want to see the history and the heritage preserved, I want to see the ecology preserved and the environment. In a way this guy is kind of — I wouldn’t say venting — I would just say advocating for my positions and my deep feelings for the state of Florida.”

Following in the footsteps of Carl Hiaasen, Dorsey has lured readers into a mental scenic tour of his home state. After following Storms on his many adventures throughout the southern peninsula no one would dare accuse Florida of being anything other than a cocktail of oddities. Storms is the embodiment of Florida. He represents everything that makes the eclectic state so beautiful and yet occasionally so grotesque. He pursues the myths Florida wears as a shroud and often uncovers startling, but nonetheless captivating, realities. Originally Dorsey said the plan was to have Storms be the villain in his first book, “Florida Roadkill.” While developing the character in his first draft he kept delving deeper and deeper into his backstory and before he knew it he had involuntarily taken over the story. He was dark, but brilliant. Chilling, but witty. Reminiscent of a James Bond villain, Storms proved sometimes the wicked do have all the fun. The second draft of the novel placed the focus on Storms and the rest is history. He’s as brutal as he is poetic and thus he’s not everyone’s cup of tea. But if you’ve ever attended one of Dorsey’s author visits

you’d know his pen struck a chord with the creation of the maniacal Storms. The rooms are frequently packed with his almost cult-like following. They fell in love years ago with the ethically questionable vigilante of justice and have joined Dorsey for more than 20 books as the stories continue to weave throughout the state. “I have a pretty eclectic audience, it’s not homogenous at all because basically humor is something — you can’t fake laughter— something either hits your funny bone or it doesn’t,” Dorsey said. “My audience is whoever happens to be on the same wavelength with my sense of humor.” Using his background as a journalist, Dorsey has successfully crafted novels that keep the reader guessing while also being chock full of Florida history and deep background research. Without his years covering the eccentricities of this state, he said he never would have been able to create Storms and his captivating world. And though his fame continues to grow, Dorsey said he always remembers the kindness libraries bestowed upon him when they opened their doors to him for the first time all those years ago. His gratitude for being given a

chance remains and he said now it’s almost “like a family reunion” when he walks back through those doors. Bruton was one of the first to extend an invitation to Dorsey and Bruton’s Adult Services Associate Angel House said they are honored to be able to continue their relationship all these years later. “There’s just something about author visits at libraries, it’s unlike anything else,” House said. “It’s a really laid back atmosphere, small and cozy, and for me, it’s the best way to meet someone. The last time (Dorsey) came the conversation was unlike anything I’ve ever seen. It was as if he and his fans had been friends for 20 years. That’s not something you’ll get in a bookstore where you wait in line for hours just to have the author sign it and then you move on. This is intimate and adds a whole new layer to your literary experience.” He knows his work won’t please everyone and he doesn’t care to try. He’s found his niche and Dorsey plans to continue to expand his universe for as long as his readers are willing to join Storms on his humorous and absurd adventures.

IF YOU GO Author: Tim Dorsey When: 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 12 Where: Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. Topic: Dorsey will discuss his new book, “No Sunscreen for the Dead,” his journey to becoming an author and how his characters came to be. The book will be available for purchase at the event, which is three days prior to the official Jan. 15 release. Bring cash to pick up your copy. For more information: Visit timdorsey.com or follow his Facebook page @TimDorseyBooks.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

FOCUS ON FITNESS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

ANGELA FULGIERI

Achieving

your new year goals

What have you resolved to do this year?

or many of us, having a happy new year means setting and achieving new goals. Are you trying to lose weight? Eat healthier? Run a marathon? These are some common resolutions we see with every new year and they are all focused on self-improvement, which is fantastic. If you are one of the many who have travelled down this road before, what’s kept you from achieving your goals? Resolving to do something is a great first step in goal setting. If you are looking to meet your fitness goals this year and beyond, it’s time to move past the resolution phase and start developing healthy habits that last.

1 2

Set goals and be specific. Need to lose weight? How much do you need to lose, in what amount of time? What are the steps it will take you to get there? Be realistic. If your goal is to lose 50 pounds this year, for example, you may set smaller achievable goals along the way. Think “baby steps”. Perhaps your goal will be to lose 4-5 pounds per month. Are you able to stick to a diet and exercise plan that will allow you to get there? Want to run a marathon? Set smaller goals along the way and register for shorter races, like 5Ks, 10Ks and half marathons to keep you on track in the months leading up to your marathon. Commit. Tell someone about your goal. Once you’ve made it public, you’re more likely to stick to it.

Stay motivated by finding a support system. Online support groups work for some, working out with a friend works for others. Try group exercise. People who attend group exercise classes are more likely to stick to it because of the camaraderie and the motivation they get from instructors and other class participants. Most importantly, it’s fun. Schedule workout time on your calendar. You need to make the commitment to yourself, so schedule it just like you would an important meeting or appointment. If you have to cancel, be sure to reschedule. Plan your meals. One of the biggest reasons we reach for unhealthy choices is because we have failed to meal plan. Find what works for your schedule, but taking one day of the week

to meal- prep works for many people. Not sure what to prepare? More nutrition information can be found at choosemyplate.gov. Keep track of your progress, reward yourself for your achievements and don’t be too hard on yourself if you get off track. It takes time and patience to create new habits, but once these healthy habits are formed, they will become second nature.

Angela Fulgieri is the Wellness Experience Director at the Plant City YMCA. Contact her at observerfitness@gmail.com.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

City seeks Midtown developer An RFP has officially been placed to seek a developer for the longawaited Midtown project.

A developer for Midtown could choose to either develop the entire property or simply take a strip of the proposed location.

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The draft concept for the long awaited Midtown project focuses on a mix of residential and commercial with ample parking.

Midtown has been a dream of the city's for more than a decade. It appears as if it may finally be coming to fruition.

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The more than a decade long hunt for a developer for Midtown may soon officially come to a close. A request for proposal (RFP) for the project has officially been posted and will be accepting bids and proposals until Jan. 24 at 2 p.m. The Midtown area is nearly 16 acres found nestled between the CSX railroad on the north and east, Ball Street on the south and Thomas Street and Wheeler Street on the west. The RFP was issued on Dec. 7 and is searching for someone to bring a multi-story mixed–use development to fulfillment near the heart of downtown. In October, City Manager Bill McDaniel presented the new vision for Midtown. Switching gears to a focus on residential he believes is key to having a thriving district. “The vision is for there to be 506 residential units,” McDaniel said. “That’s 1,000 people living within walking distance of downtown. Imagine what that impact is going to be. For downtown to thrive you need people to be pouring into it.” The proposed plan will have several buildings with commercial on the ground floor and residential above it. The draft concept also had many live and work spaces and solely residential units available. In October, McDaniel said he had “multiple

The Community Redevelopment Agency owns the property and has invested more than $10 million in the project to date. Currently a vacant concrete wasteland, the hope is to have negations completed and development underway as soon as possible. The CRA has long alluded to wanting a flourishing community and nightlife in downtown and Midtown is one major step to making that dream a reality. “The city is seeking a catalyst redevelopment project that will revitalize Midtown and the broader central business district by creating attractive, user friendly, walkable connections for a mixture of pedestrian friendly uses that will attract new businesses, tourists, visitors and residents to a variety of venues,” reads the RFP. “The Project should offer both daytime and nighttime activities with easy access to the rest of Midtown and Downtown Plant City while remaining respectful of Plant City’s historic character.” Proposals that have a three to five story residential component will have a “greater consideration” from the CRA, which is focusing on a retail on bottom, residential on top aesthetic. The bids will be gathered by Jan. 24 and the evaluation committee is meeting on Feb. 11. The plan is for the group to negotiate a development agreement from Feb. 12 to May 10 and present the agreement to the CRA board on May 28.

Maryland Ave.

STAFF WRITER

conversations” with developers and promised there was a growing interest in bringing the vision to life. The city built a failsafe into the RFP to ensure they don’t end up back at square one in a handful of months. Once all of the bids are gathered they will be placed into a top priority list. The best overall offer will be first, the next will be second and so on. If the first developer says they want to do the entire district, enters negotiations with the city and then backs out in the final hour the city won’t have to go through the submission process all over again. They will simply move down to number two and start from there. The developer can also choose to only tackle a portion of the district if they prefer, which was an idea McDaniel said will ensure development is underway as quickly as possible. During a presentation to the community during a Plant City Main Street Topics on Tap event in October he said under the right circumstances and agreements the city may even consider giving the developers the land or helping them however they needed to get the ball rolling. “The plan now is that one developer won’t have to come in and agree to do the entire district,” McDaniel said. “Someone can say, ‘Hey, I want to do this block,’ or ‘I’m interested in doing this section, but not that one,” and that’s OK. We’re flexible and that will help get this thing going.”

289695-1

BREANNE WILLIAMS

Lakeland

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

COPS CORNER

Letter to the Editor This week on Cops Corner, Plant City Police investigated stolen Christmas lights, vending machine thefts and more.

Bravo to the Observer for its coverage of the upcoming Periphery exhibition

THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

(12/20). I look forward to an exhibit that will build on the momentum of the Arts Council of Plant City and the East Hillsborough Art Guild, which have championed the work of artists working in all mediums. However, I challenge the perception that there is no “serious push to begin hosting regular exhibitions” by these organiza-

DEC. 21

IPHONE SWIPER 1 Raider Pl. Petit theft: This complainant told officers that while she was cleaning the mall area of PCHS she put her cellphone down on a table and then went in to clean a restroom. When she came back out the cell phone had been stolen.

tions as stated in the aforementioned article. At present, there is a very good art exhibit at the Bruton Memorial Library, and the 1914 Schoolhouse features a large exhibit of work by artists in our region. This year’s food truck rallies offered several opportunities to display and sell art, as did The Guild’s pop up galleries, which were held in partnership with local businesses during the

DEC. 22

summer. In addition, the Guild’s Christmas Exhibit showcased more than 200 works

have the confidence to submit my own art to this juried event, and I thank both The

CLOTHING HEIST 2100 block of James L. Redman Pkwy. Shoplifting: Officers came out to this store after receiving a call about shoplifting. A man took $50 worth of clothing and was placed under arrest for petit theft. Officers took him to Orient Road Jail.

Guild and the 1914 for supporting my evolution as an artist.

DEC. 23

of art. It is unfortunate that the event received no local news coverage. I wholeheartedly applaud and support the organizers of the Periphery exhibit and believe that the goal of the event is both timely and relevant to our community. I now

FIRED UP E. Calhoun St./N. Knight St. Criminal mischief: Officers headed to E. Calhoun Street to investigate shots that were fired in the area. A residence near the incident scene had damage due to shooting.

Cindy Ryan

Airplane ambush 4000 block of Airport Rd. Theft: This victim told officers a safety plate, valued at $100, was stolen from his airplane sometime over the past week. AWAY WITH THE MANGER 100 block of Birchwood Ave. Theft: A woman told officers an unknown male in a grey hoodie got out of his vehicle and took the plastic Joseph from her nativity scene. He also broke Mary. She said the damage and theft was valued at $300. LET IT BURN 3000 block of SR. 574 Information/possible arson: Officers came out to a residence to respond to a structure fire. They realized the home was vacant and Plant City Fire Rescue arrived and extinguished the fire. The State Fire Marshall responded and is working the incident as a possible arson case.

CHRISTMAS EVE EVE 2700 block of Aston Ave. Theft: ’Twas the night before the night before Christmas and this complainant told officers an unknown suspect took several Christmas decorations from the outside of their home.

DEC. 24

SCREEN PIRATES 300 block of Park Springs CR 2. Burglary: This complainant told officers someone cut the screen to her rear porch and then stole a black and blue 10-speed bicycle that was valued at $100. GRAFFITI AT MARSHALL 18 S. Maryland Ave. Burglary/criminal mischief: Officers came out on a report of criminal mischief and found that over the weekend someone entered the property and spray painted graffiti on the outer school walls.

DEC. 25

VENDING GRINCHES 600 block of N. Maryland Ave. Possession of burglary tools/ criminal mischief, petit theft and molest vending machines: Officers came out to investigate a report of two suspects breaking into vending machines. Two men were arrested and sent to Orient Road Jail without incident. LANE CLOSURE N. Alexander St./W. Baker St. Abandoned vehicle: A vehicle was abandoned in the middle of the roadway near N. Alexander St. and W. Baker Street. It was blocking south-bound traffic. Officers had it towed and entered into FCIC as an abandoned impound after the owner was not able to be contacted.

DEC. 26

DELAYED BREAK-IN 900 block of W. Warren St. Theft: The complainant told officers that approximately two weeks prior someone had broken into his residence and stolen his 70 inch LG 4K television. The tv was reported as stolen.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

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SAN DIEGO: Vann and Judy Sweatt got to see San Diego and the Pacific Ocean in 2018 thanks to their daughter, Jamie. Vann posed for a photo with granddaughters Bailey, Peyton and Mackenzie and made sure to bring a copy of the Observer.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

TABLETOP THRILLS Whether it’s a hardcore role-playing game or something as simple as Uno, a local group wants to put down the controllers and promote social, in-person gaming. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The average Monday for members of the Plant City Gamers Guild starts like that of most people: working a full day, bored and wishing it were Friday already. But once they’ve clocked out, they’ll find themselves teaming up for adventures in a fantasy world. They call it “Taking Back Monday” in an effort to make everyone’s least favorite day of the week more fun with the popular tabletop role-playing game Dungeons and

Dragons, or D&D for short. The game is the guild’s bread and butter and founder Jason Sherotski hopes to show Plant Citians how much fun they can have when they step away from the video game consoles. “You’re not limited to what somebody programmed into it,” he said. “You’re capable of improvising.” Dungeons and Dragons has been around since 1974 and is famous for offering a unique tabletop experience in a fantasy setting. Players work together, rather than against each other as in traditional games, to achieve a common goal. Maybe that goal is lifting the curse from a village whose residents can only speak in iambic pentameter, maybe it’s plundering a magic cave for its treasure or maybe it’s saving the world from a major threat. Players create their own characters from the ground up (character creation itself often requires a full session, or “session zero”) and navigate the world as defined by the game leader, or “Dungeon Master.”

The game has a large underground fol- playing Sorry!, Monopoly, Cards Against lowing, but Sherotski — who moved to Humanity, Uno and more. Plant City last year — was surprised to “If it goes on the table, we’ll enjoy it,” learn how many people in Plant City were Hughes said. fans. He created the group’s Facebook page The group previously met up in downon an impulse one afternoon and got more town Plant City at Aromatic Harmony, but responses than expected. He was able to has since migrated to Sherotski’s house get a regular group together by August after turning an upstairs bedroom into a to begin a campaign for the group to play fantasy-themed game room. every other Monday for roughly four hours Meeting information is always available at a time. on the Plant City Gamers Guild Facebook “I wasn’t optimistic about it to begin page, and Sherotski also makes videos for with, I guess, just because in your everyday D&D and other games that involve rolelife you don’t run into that many people playing or deck-building and shares them who still play tabletop games,” Sherotski to the page for anyone to watch. Those said. “But when I started asking around looking for an escape from the doldrums about it, I was surprised at not only how of the work week can visit the Facebook many people were like ‘Yeah, I’ve played,’ page to get in touch with Sherotski about but how many were ecstatic that someone joining up. was getting a gaming community together “It’s a break away from your normal, like this.” crazy life,” Hughes said. The campaign is coming to an end soon and a new one will begin later this month. For members like Larry Hughes and Ashley White, the guild offered a chance to finally try something they’d known about for a while but never got around to playing. Having structured meeting times helped them work D&D sessions into their everyday schedules as full-time workers and parents, so the two have been with the group nearly from the start. “I was so against it at first,” White said. Justin Kline “Then I started watching (Hughes) play, I started watching videos and I wanted to try Larry Hughes studies a Dungeons and it. Once I made my character I was hooked. Dragons character sheet in the Plant City It’s nothing like what you’d expect. It uses Gamers Guild’s new game room. a lot of imagination but it’s very rulebased… it’s a lot of thinking. It’s not something I ever expected.” The guild also hosts Saturday meet-ups that aren’t limited to D&D. Any tabletop game someone wants to pick up is in play, so the members are as likely to spend a day

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

City prepares for major revamp Several major projects throughout town will soon be underway or completed as the city launches headfirst into the new year.

Bathrooms will be constructed during the new year at Brewer Park.

Breanne Williams

Fire Station Three is set to be completed in the upcoming months. BREANNE WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER

The city has several major projects coming to fruition in 2019 that will help continue to ensure Plant City offers updated amenities to the public. One of the most notable changes is the massive revamp planned for several local parks. With an approximate cost of $1.465 million, the projects will add improvements to Ellis-Methvin Park, Snowden Park, Brewer Park and the Tennis Center. The Tennis Center, 102 N. Wilder Rd., will have new lighting in the parking lot at the price tag of approximately $35,000. The center is used by players all over the area and averages 400 guests each month, according to Jack Holland, director of the Recreation and Parks Department. There is also $275,000 set aside to create a restroom and shower facility for the tennis center, which will allow those who use the courts before or after work to clean up before heading out for the day. The center is part of Ellis-Methvin Park, which is scheduled to have a new concession-restroom facility created for $990,000 during the upcoming year.

Snowden Park, 1702 Waller St., is expected to have new lighting installed along its walking trail, which will run approximately $50,000. Holland said the walking trails are one of the most frequently used assets at local parks so ensuring the usability hours can stretch from early morning to past dusk is essential for the department. Brewer Park, 1491 Hunter St., was an unexpected success for the city. A half-mile walking trail circles the retention pond at Brewer, which was renovated to make room for any runoff from the upcoming Midtown project. Once the trail was added it soon became one of the busiest paths in the entire city. The plan is to use approximately $115,000 to install bathrooms at the park, which will help meet the needs of the hightraffic at the location. City Manager Bill McDaniel said the park was “woefully lacking” and now that the economy is a little better the city is finally able to afford to tackle projects it’s had its eye on for years. Otis M. Andrews Sports Complex, 2602 E. Cherry St., may also be getting a new playground by the end of 2018, according to Holland. Several of the playgrounds at nearby parks are aging and the plan is for the department to

spend time creating an analysis of each location to determine where improvements are needed. Fire Station Three, 1702 N. Park Rd., officially broke ground in September and will be completed in the upcoming months. The original price tag was approximately $3 mill for the building, however, a variety of issues including low construction estimates, continually increasing costs of construction material and an overall lack of skilled construction workers caused commissioners to have to add approximate $632,000 to the final budget. During the dedication ceremony, Mayor Rick Lott said the city had a decision, to increase the budget or put out a less than satisfactory final product. He said the city wanted to show its support for its first responders so they unanimously voted to add more funds. Parking in downtown will hopefully soon be a little more bearable as the city plans to upgrade two of its major lots — the Mahoney Street lot and the North Municipal lot. The north depot lot, found by the train museum, will need stormwater improvements to tackle draining issues, curbing, replaced wheel stops and more. Mahoney Street lot, between Collins Street and Evers

Breanne Williams

New lighting will be placed along the walking trail at Snowden Park.

Street, also needs improvements to draining and curb replacements as well as upgraded lighting, which McDaniel said will help downtown feel safe regardless of the hour someone visits. The old post office on Reynolds Street was officially purchased by the city in December. General Services has already begun cleaning up the dilapidated property and landscaping is currently being revitalized at the location. The city is going to do a full assessment of the building tomorrow and will determine how to move forward with the project. When discussing potential plans for the space, McDaniel said the first priority was getting the parking lot open for the public to use for events nearby like shows at Plant City Entertainment or services at

the church across the street. Though the details have yet to be finalized one of the projects currently being championed by McDaniel is to have improvements made to the Plant City dog park to make it more accessible. Currently, the parking lot is on one side of a ditch and the park is on the other. Dogs and their owners either walk in the street or park in a non-designated spot to access the park. McDaniel said there is still a lot to finalize, but the wheels are in motion on improving the property. There are often calls for adding a second dog park in the town, but until the city can prove the original one is being utilized it won’t be able to consider expanding to another location.

Courtesy of City of Plant City.

The proposed shower amenities for the Tennis Center.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

New Year, New You The Plant City area offers plenty of unique workout programs for anyone who is looking for a new, fun way to get fit in 2019.

JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

or many who look at the start of a new year as a blank slate, getting fit is a top priority. But not everyone wants to stick to a one-size-fits-all approach. People looking for something closer to a traditional workout experience in a social setting could check out Camp Gladiator, which offers classes five days a week in the mornings and evenings at several Plant City locations. Camp Gladiator, which has locations throughout Florida, Texas, Louisiana, Tennessee, North Carolina and Colorado, combines cardio and strength training in its four-week blocks. It may sound hardcore, but local instructor Stefani Cox said there’s nothing for anyone to fear. “We are for all fitness levels,” Cox said. “You can work out with someone who’s never worked out a day in their life and you could work out next to someone who’s an all-star athlete.” Cox, who helped launch Plant City’s camp in May 2018, said another thing setting Camp Gladiator apart is that it treats everyone like a big family and also has monthly social events for its campers to connect. Classes are held at First Baptist Church of Plant City, GracePoint Church and Stingray Chevrolet at various times and dates. To view schedules and sign up, visit campgladiator.com. Cox said the Plant City location is offering four free weeks of camp starting Jan. 7. One of the most unique workouts in town is at the Planteen Recreation Center on Dort Street, but all you’ll need is a hula hoop. Cyrena Lang’s Dragon Hooper program offers Hoola-Fit hoop classes in Plant City, Brandon and Ruskin for men, women and children of all skill levels. Whether it’s your first time learning to hoop or dance or if you’re a seasoned veteran, Lang’s hour-long classes will make you sweat. She hosts classes for ages 13 and up at the Planteen rec center at 6:30 p.m. every Wednesday and is also getting ready to host a beginners workshop for kids and

adults from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. this Saturday. Lang has a kids class in the works that’s set to begin in Plant City on Jan. 16 and runs from 4:30p.m. to 5:30 p.m. for eight weeks. “This is actually fun,” student Latrenia Bryant said. “It’s not just treadmills. It’s different and it’s fun. Cyrena makes it fun.” Lang is also yoga wheel certified and licensed and occasionally hosts pop-up yoga wheel workshops. Those workshops, as well as Hoola-Fit classes and workshops, are always announced on the Dragon Hooper Facebook page. Visit the Facebook page for more information. Yoga is a trendy fitness option right now and there’s no shortage of places in Plant City to get your stretch on. There are offerings at the Plant City Family YMCA, Koa Yoga Studio, the Yoga Barn and more for anyone looking for a traditional experience. Animal lovers would want to clear some time on the weekends, though, for Grady Goat Yoga. Grady Goat Farm opens up to the public (with online ticket purchase) on Saturday and Sunday mornings for yoga classes with some of the cutest partners around: young goats. Not only can you pet and hold little goats, but they’ll also join you — maybe even jump on you — as you stretch out. There is no experience requirement to join the hour-long classes and participants are welcome to take pictures of and with the goats. Visit gradygoat.org to purchase tickets and get directions to the farm. If you just want to stick to the basics, the Plant City Running Club has you covered. The Facebook-based club has around 200 members and meets at the Hole in One Donuts on Alexander Street every Saturday for a 7 a.m. run and also organizes a 4:30 a.m. trot through Walden Lake on Wednesdays. The members are hoping to get a regular Tuesday event together sometime this month. Group member Jillian Wilder says members also use the group Facebook to find running buddies for events outside of Plant City. “We’re kind of a ‘go with the flow’ group,” Wilder said. Visit facebook.com/plantcityrunningclub for more info.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

JANUARY 3, 2019

SPORTS Quick Hits

Triston Davidson excels on the wrestling mat. See Page 17

CHASE THAT CHAMPIONSHIP:

Plant City native to play in college football title game JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Hoops tourney results PLANT CITY

Boys @ Capital City Shootout 12/21: Rickards 67, PCHS 45 12/22: Lincoln 45, PCHS 42 Boys @ Kingdom of the Sun 12/27: Hawthorne 44, PCHS 36 12/29: West Port 75, PCHS 54 Girls @ Jaguar Holiday Tournament 12/27: Academy of Holy Names 41, PCHS 16 12/28: Santa Fe Catholic 52, PCHS 30

STRAWBERRY CREST

Boys @ Jesuit Invitational 12/21: Jesuit 61, SCHS 37 12/22: SCHS 71, Armwood 66 Boys @ Clearwater Shootout (Upcoming) 1/4: vs. Boca Ciega 1/5: vs. St. Petersburg Girls @ Carrollwood Day School Holiday Tournament 12/21: SCHS 24, Chamberlain 24 12/22: Carrollwood Day 63, SCHS 24

BJJ seminar on Saturday Carlson Gracie Plant City/ Cross Guard Fitness will host Brazilian jiu-jitsu professor Rinaldo Santos for a seminar this weekend. Santos, a fifth-degree black belt, will begin teaching at 10 a.m. on Saturday. Grapplers of all ages are welcome to come and learn from a master of the sport for $45. The school is also adding more options for younger grapplers for 2019. MMA for Kids classes will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5:45 p.m. and BJJ classes for 3 to 5 year olds will be held Mondays and Wednesdays at 5 p.m. Carlson Gracie Plant City is located downtown at 109 E. Reynolds St. Visit Carlson Gracie Plant City / Cross Guard Fitness on Facebook for more info.

.J. Chase didn’t have much time to celebrate after helping the Clemson Tigers win the Cotton Bowl on Dec. 29. He and his teammates started preparing for Alabama that same night by watching film. It’s the nature of the beast. As deep as Chase is in the film room, though, he’s found time to take it all in. The redshirt sophomore wide receiver is as thrilled as anyone to be on this stage, competing for his sport’s highest honor with his band of brothers in what’s become college football’s most compelling new rivalry. What makes this year different for Chase, though, is that his number is finally getting called and he’s getting his chance to make plays on the field. If goal 1a is to go 15-0 and bring the championship back to his corner of South Carolina, goal 1b is to represent Plant City on the biggest stage of them all. “It’s amazing to have a chance to go back to the national championship,” Chase said. “In 2016 I had to redshirt so this time, having the opportunity to participate, it’s big time for me.” He certainly picked a good time to join the Clemson family. The Tigers and Crimson Tide are about to face off in the College Football Playoff for the fourth consecutive year. Of these meetings, only the Jan. 1, 2018 Sugar Bowl (a 24-6 win for Bama) was not a national title game. Chase signed with Clemson shortly after the 2016 game, a 45-40 thriller won by Alabama, and watched the Tigers pull off a 35-31 upset in his redshirt season. He appeared in five games in 2017, but did not play in that Sugar Bowl game. Chase appeared in nine games in 2018 and has caught 12 passes for 101 yards and two touchdowns. In the Tigers’ 30-3 dismantling of Notre Dame in the Cotton Bowl, Chase got on the field late in the game and caught two passes for a total of 17 yards, starting with a quick 13-yard catch to get the Tigers a first down. “I was ready to go out there and do my thing, put on for my city,” Chase said. Chase said this postseason has been his favorite thus far — partly because of the excellent season Clemson has had, partly because he’s gotten playing time. The Tigers are one of the few programs recently that’s managed to live up to

David Platt (Courtesy of Clemson University)

T.J. Chase and his Clemson teammates are ready for Alabama.

expectations year in and year out and Chase said his experience at Clemson has been similar to living in Plant City: a “welcoming, family atmosphere” on and off campus where he and his teammates have all the support they could ever need. And they will need it. This year’s Crimson Tide squad might be one of the most talented in the program’s history, which is saying a lot, and its players are battle-tested. Though the Tigers are young, especially on offense, the talent to score on Bama’s vaunted defense is there. Clemson’s defense is one of the few in the country many consider capa-

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

ble of hanging with Bama’s offense. Chase knows the odds of a win coming easily on Jan. 7 are slim to none, but he’s ready to put in the work to help make it happen. “Preparation is gonna be the key,” he said. Chase is hoping he can get on the field again on Monday and do anything he can to help the team win. All the pieces are in place, he believes, as far as talent and coaching are concerned. He wants nothing more than to return to Plant City with a shiny new ring on his hand, able to tell people he directly contributed to what would be one of the greatest team efforts in sports dur-

ing the 2018-19 period. Most importantly, Chase believes it will happen. “We feel like we can get the job done,” he said.

File photo

T.J. Chase played at Plant City High School for three seasons and excelled for the Raiders.

JUSTIN KLINE

Preserving the past of Plant City sports

ne of the first things I did when I landed in Arizona two weeks ago was go with my relatives to pick up their Fiesta Bowl tickets. Much to my surprise, we ended up in more than just a sports apparel store — the place had a museum for the history of the bowl game in the back. Newspaper clippings from every game since the 1971 original line one wall. There’s game

scores, trophies and equipment on display to highlight some of the biggest moments in the bowl’s history. Full uniform displays for the current Fiesta Bowl matchup (and another Arizona-based bowl game, the now-infamous CheezIts Bowl between Cal and TCU) are smack in the center of the room.

SEE KLINE, PAGE 17

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

SPONSORED BY SPORT CLIPS

Triston Davidson One of Florida’s best high school wrestlers at 160 pounds is Strawberry Crest’s own Triston Davidson. The senior, who only has one loss this season, recently went undefeated at both the Weeki Wachee Duals and the Fit2Win Tournament at Countryside. The latter was Davidson’s first-ever tournament win. How do you feel about the way this season’s going for you? I’m just trying to keep my mentality up, to just keep myself motivated for this season. I actually feel a lot better after this break somehow, to be honest with you. I weigh less, I feel better, I have more strength. What are your goals for this season? My mind is always on the state championship. I know to get to No. 1 this year, state champion, it’s Brevin (Balmeceda). He’s from South Dade, he’s No. 1. I’ve got to go against the No. 2, from Manatee, this coming week. I’m just trying to run it home, get conditioning up. I’ve been looking at all Brevin’s stuff — he’s No. 2 nationally — so I’m trying to get my conditioning up because that’s where the other guy beat him. I’m trying to find his weak point. I’m trying to be the best I can this season.

Know someone who deserves an Athlete of the Week feature? Email Justin Kline at JKline@ plantcityobserver.com by the Friday before the next issue.

What’s some advice you’d give a newcomer to the team? A lot of kids, whenever they start, they all see the varsity wrestlers trying to cut weight. There’s ways to do it. A lot of them try not to eat and try not to drink. The best thing I’ve seen is to eat, drink a gallon of water a day… starting just a few days ago, I feel 10 times stronger in practices, feel better and I’ve lost five pounds from it. Cutting weight is tough and you can really hurt yourself if you do it wrong. Everyone should learn the right way to do it. Oh yeah. Eat little bits every hour to get your metabolism up instead of just eating two big meals or one big meal. Just a little bit throughout the day. The darker the meat the better, so I like to eat Slim Jims and stuff like that. Something to give me energy.

Any college plans? A lot of things are up in the air. I’ve had a job opportunity out in California, I’ve had colleges to look at like Life University and others throughout. I’m just trying to weigh my options. My coach is trying to talk me into going on with it, so it’s been heavy on my mind. What’s been your favorite moment from this year? The Fit2Win tournament was my first time winning a big tournament. It felt really good to be able to come out and pin him in the beginning of the second period. It felt amazing, seeing everyone happy with me and getting my medal over my neck. It was the best thing that could have happened to me. What are you putting the most work into at practice? I’m trying to train more on doubles just because I never train them, but there always ends up being a match where I get them. So I’m trying to work more on my doubles. Strength and technique is what I’m going for. What’s the most fun thing about being a part of this team? The family part of it. We’re absolutely a family. Even this last week, a bunch of us went over to hang out with the East Lake team and we all went to the beach, had fun. We do feel like a family. We’re brothers and sisters here.

Kline FROM PAGE 16

There’s even an area honoring past directors not unlike what you’d see at the Florida Strawberry Festival’s main office, complete with a mini-exhibit about the unique yellow jackets they all wear. How could I not think of Plant City after checking out that corner of the room? So, I did think of Plant City. Our town’s sports history is much longer than the Fiesta

Bowl’s. Couldn’t we get something totally comprehensive together? I know there are several places that already offer a look back at past sporting days. The Bing House has been diligent about collecting Negro League Baseball memorabilia and stories from locals who played in those days. I attended a PCHS class reunion en masse last year where every graduating class in the building made a booth to display and many booths featured Planters and Raiders memorabilia that would fit right in at a museum. I covered the ring ceremony

UPCOMING GAMES BOYS BASKETBALL Jan. 8 Plant City at Durant, 8 p.m. Strawberry Crest at Spoto, 8 p.m. Jan. 11 East Bay at Durant, 8 p.m. Plant City at Bloomingdale, 8 p.m. Strawberry Crest at Tampa Bay Tech, 8 p.m. Jan. 15 Durant at Newsome, 8 p.m. Plant City at East Bay, 8 p.m. Lennard at Strawberry Crest, 8 p.m. Jan. 16 Strawberry Crest at Durant, 8 p.m. Lennard at Plant City, 8 p.m. Jan. 18 Durant at Bloomingdale, 8 p.m. Plant City at Strawberry Crest, 8 p.m. Jan. 21 Strawberry Crest vs. Tenoroc, TBA (MLK Shootout at Lake Wales) Jan. 22 Tampa Bay Tech at Durant, 8 p.m. Riverview at Plant City, 8 p.m. Strawberry Crest at Bloomingdale, 8 p.m. Jan. 24 Durant at Lennard, 8 p.m. Plant City at Tampa Bay Tech, 8 p.m. East Bay at Strawberry Crest, 8 p.m. Jan. 25 Durant at Plant City, 8 p.m. Newsome at Strawberry Crest, 8 p.m.

Jan. 9 Plant at Durant, 7 p.m. Middleton at Strawberry Crest, 7 p.m. Jan. 11 East Bay at Durant, 6:30 p.m. Plant City at Bloomingdale, 6:30 p.m. Strawberry Crest at Tampa Bay Tech, 6:30 p.m. Jan. 15 Durant at Newsome, 6:30 p.m. Plant City at East Bay, 6:30 p.m. Lennard at Strawberry Crest, 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 18 Durant at Bloomingdale, 6:30 p.m. Plant City at Strawberry Crest, 6:30 p.m. Jan. 22 Tampa Bay Tech at Durant, 6:30 p.m. Riverview at Plant City, 6:30 p.m. Strawberry Crest at Bloomingdale, 6:30 p.m. Jan. 24 Durant at Lennard, 6:30 p.m. Plant City at Tampa Bay Tech, 6:30 p.m. East Bay at Strawberry Crest, 6:30 p.m. Jan. 25 Durant at Plant City, 6:30 p.m. Newsome at Strawberry Crest, 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 29 King at Durant, 8 p.m. Strawberry Crest at Gaither, 8 p.m. Jan. 30 Plant City at Armwood, 8 p.m.

Jan. 30 Plant City at Armwood, 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 31 Plant City at Chamberlain, 8 p.m.

Jan. 31 Plant City at Chamberlain, 6:30 p.m. Armwood at Strawberry Crest, 7 p.m.

Jan. 8 Plant City at Durant, 6:30 p.m. Strawberry Crest at Spoto, 6:30 p.m.

for the state champion 1982 PCHS boys basketball team and all along one side of the room were blown-up newspaper clippings from key games of that season. We’ve got the opportunity to do something with the Cincinnati Reds, as Plant City Stadium doesn’t open to the public on a daily basis so you can go see Pete Rose’s locker and other things. I don’t want to take anything away from anyone who’s already done work like this. I just think it would be pretty cool if people could come together to create an exhibit somewhere in town to

Jan. 14 Plant City at Bloomingdale, 8 p.m. Jan. 15 Durant at Spoto, 8 p.m. Wharton at Plant City, 8 p.m. Strawberry Crest at Plant, 8 p.m.

Jan. 22 Bloomingdale at Durant, 8 p.m. Plant City at Armwood, 8 p.m. Wharton at Strawberry Crest, 8 p.m. GIRLS SOCCER Jan. 8 Durant at East Bay, 6 p.m. Newsome at Plant City, 6 p.m. Riverview at Strawberry Crest, 6 p.m. Jan. 11 Brandon at Durant, 6 p.m. Jefferson at Plant City, 6 p.m. Strawberry Crest at Robinson, 6 p.m. Jan. 14 Plant City at Bloomingdale, 6 p.m. Jan. 15 Durant at Spoto, 6 p.m. Wharton at Plant City, 6 p.m. Strawberry Crest at Plant, 6 p.m. Jan. 17 Strawberry Crest at Armwood, 6 pm.

BOYS SOCCER Jan. 8 Durant at East Bay, 8 p.m. Newsome at Plant City, 8 p.m.

re-tell all of our biggest sports stories of the past. It wouldn’t even have to stop with the distant past. Why not include some of the more recent accomplishments of PCHS, Durant and Strawberry Crest teams that had extraordinary or important seasons? Why not bring youth sports into the mix, like this Plant City Dolphins Midgets team that’s currently on a record-setting league winning streak or the UYFL squad that won a national title with an awesome run several years ago? I’m not sure just how pos-

Jan. 11 Brandon at Durant, 8 p.m. Jefferson at Plant City, 8 p.m. Strawberry Crest at Robinson, 8 p.m.

Jan. 18 Durant at Wharton, 8 p.m. Plant City at Steinbrenner, 8 p.m.

Jan. 16 Strawberry Crest at Durant, 6:30 p.m. Lennard at Plant City, 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 29 King at Durant, 6:30 p.m. Hillsborough at Plant City, 6:30 p.m. Strawberry Crest at Gaither, 6:30 p.m.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Riverview at Strawberry Crest, 8 p.m.

SPORTS

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Jan. 18 Durant at Wharton, 6 p.m. Plant City at Steinbrenner, 6 p.m. Jan. 22 Bloomingdale at Durant, 6 p.m. Plant City at Armwood, 6 p.m. Wharton at Strawberry Crest, 6 p.m.

sible it is to put together such an exhibit, something that really encompasses everything we’ve had to offer, but a sportswriter can dream.

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

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

GAME TIMES

ISSA-WBSC tourney returning to Plant City The groups’ World Tournament of Champions will run from Jan. 22-27. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

ore than 150 groups of softball players will soon show Plant City you're never too old to step up to the plate. The International Senior Softball Association-World Baseball Softball Confederation World Tournament of Champions comes back to the Tampa Bay Area for the eighth time later this month and Plant City will host more than a quarter of the 453 scheduled games. The tournament is open to players age 50 and up and they will play 144 games at Plant City Stadium and the Randy L. Larson Softball FourPlex from Jan. 22-27. “We’ve got 150 of best teams in the country and they’ll converge on Plant City and other areas and have a good time,” tournament director R.B. Thomas said. Plant City also hosts the tournament’s annual Home Run Derby, a showdown between all-stars of the tournament and the Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team, and the game between the tourney all-stars and the WWAST. The derby at Plant City Stadium starts at 6 p.m. Jan. 25 and the game begins right afterward at 7:30 p.m. New to the tournament this year is the Mike Macenko Home Run Challenge. This separate home run derby, also to be held on Jan. 25, is the first of 10 qualifying ISSA events leading up to the Oct. 18 finale in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The winner of the challenge earns the title of ISSA Senior Softball National Home Run King.

Jan. 22 Larson 1: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m. Larson 2: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m. 4:30 p.m. Larson 3: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m. Larson 4: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m. PCS: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m.

Jan. 23 Larson 1: 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m. Larson 2: 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m. Larson 3: 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m. Larson 4: 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m. PCS: 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m.

Jan. 24 Larson 1: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m. Larson 2: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m. Larson 3: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m. Larson 4: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m. PCS: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m.

Jan. 25 Larson 1: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m. 4:30 p.m. Larson 2: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 3 p.m. 4:30 p.m. Larson 3: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m. 4:30 p.m. Larson 4: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m.,

1:30 p.m., 3 p.m. 4:30 p.m. PCS: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m. HR Derby: 6 p.m. ASG: 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 26 Larson 1: 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m. Larson 2: 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m. Larson 3: 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m. Larson 4: 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 7 p.m. PCS: 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m.

Jan. 27 Larson 1: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m. Larson 2: No games scheduled Larson 3: No games scheduled Larson 4: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m. PCS: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

GAME TIMES

ISSA-WBSC tourney returning to Plant City The groups’ World Tournament of Champions will run from Jan. 22-27. JUSTIN KLINE SPORTS/ASSOCIATE EDITOR

1:30 p.m., 3 p.m. 4:30 p.m. PCS: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m. HR Derby: 6 p.m. ASG: 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 27 Larson 1: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m. Larson 2: No games scheduled Larson 3: No games scheduled Larson 4: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m. PCS: 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m.

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“Sally Field.”

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“Kate McKinnon.”

“Jude Law.”

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Martin Garcia Avalos, 65, of Dover, passed away on Dec. 15, 2018. Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haught.care.

James D. Wheeler ‘J.D.,’ 81, of Plant City, born in Pocahontas, Arkansas on June 6, 1937, entered into the loving arms of his Lord on Saturday, Dec. 15, 2018. walked into Heaven on Dec. 16. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Roy Lee Spell, 56, of Plant City, born on May 9, 1962, entered into eternal rest on Dec.17, 2018, at home surrounded by family. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

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Stella Faye Walker William ‘Bill’ Harris William “Bill” Harris, 68, of Plant City, passed away on Dec. 19, 2018. He was the son of the late James Harris and Mary Frances Harris. Mary still survives. Bill is also survived by his loving family. He served in the U.S. Army. Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haught.care.

Stephen R. Parrish, 70, of Plant City, born on May 5, 1948, walked into Heaven on Dec. 16. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Christopher James Carroll Christopher James Carroll, 36, of Tampa, born in Oakland, Maryland on July 4, 1982, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 11. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

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Beverly Hall Beverly Hall, 70, of passed away on Dec. 19, 2018. Services will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be left for the family at www. haught.care.

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Everett Leno Minton, 54, of Plant City, born in Plant City on March 29, 1964, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 21, 2018. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

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Lillian O. Lastinger, 91, of Lithia, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2018. We celebrate the going home of Lillian O. Lastinger, a founding member of Gardenville Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Gideons International.

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is all about.

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Theresa Kay Edgemon Strawn

Courtney Breanne Strawn

Theresa Kay Edgemon Strawn, 54, of Plant City, born on June 26, 1964 in Lakeland, entered into eternal rest along with her daughter, Courtney Breanne Strawn, and granddaughter, Londyn Faith Strawn, on Dec.19, 2018. She had a successful career in accounting before retiring in 2017. She was a loving mother and grandmother. Her smile lit up any room she entered. She was beautiful both inside and out. She loved God and her family very much. She was a graceful and giving woman. She is survived by her son, Andrew “Drew” William Strawn (Stacy); parents, Alta Hall Edgemon, and Andrew T. Edgemon (Patty); brothers, Alex Edgemon (Ernie), and Zachary Edgemon (Amanda); and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, family, and friends. A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, Dec. 29 at 1:00 p.m. at Bethany Baptist Church. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Courtney Breanne Strawn, 32, of Plant City, born on Dec. 1, 1986 in Brandon, entered into eternal rest along with her daughter, Londyn Faith Strawn, and mother, Theresa Kay Edgemon Strawn on Dec. 19, 2018. She loved her daughter Londyn very much. Her laugh was contagious and she enjoyed life to the fullest. She excelled at physical fitness and worked hard at everything she put her mind to. She is survived by her brother, Andrew “Drew” William Strawn (Stacy); grandparents, Alta Hall Edgemon, and Andrew T. Edgemon (Patty); uncles, Alex Edgemon (Ernie), Zachary Edgemon (Amanda), and Perry Strawn (Belinda); aunt, Valerie DeArmond (Doug); and a host of cousins, family, and friends. A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, Dec. 29 at 1:00 p.m. at Bethany Baptist Church. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

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William F. ‘Chuck’ Hall,

Sharon Hickey Young,

William F. “Chuck” Hall, 93, of Lithia, Florida, born in Tampa on April 12, 1925, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 29, 2018. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

Sharon Hickey Young, 75, of Plant City, Florida, born in Moore Haven on Jan.17, 1943, entered into eternal rest on Dec. 29, 2018. Expressions of condolence at www.HopewellFuneral.com.

HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Londyn Faith Strawn

Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival.

Ken A. Gibbs

Ken A. Gibbs, 53, passed away Londyn Faith Strawn, 6, of Plant Dec. 27, 2018 in Plant City. He was born in Lakeland on City, born on May 10, 2012 in WELLSMEMORIAL.COM Aug. 23, 1965, was a lifelong Brandon, entered into eternal resident of Plant City and a rest along with her mother, fifth generation Floridian. Ken Courtney Breanne Strawn, and MeMorial & event Center City High grandmother, Theresa Kay Edge- graduated from PlantWells Jeremiah ‘Billy’ PlanT CiTy School and attended Palm mon Strawn on Dec. 19, 2018. Jr. 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com was Sullivan She attended Valrico Elemen- Beach Atlantic College. Ken a Realtor and a member of the tary, and was in the 1st grade. local, state and national1 assoShe loved art, gymnastics, and M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd Jeremiah ‘Billy’ Sullivan Jr., 83, ciation of Realtors. He worked her new puppy Buttercup. She of Lithia, born in Mt. Dora on was an adventurous and curious with his father Jack, brother Feb. 12th, 1935, entered into Doug, and son Andrew in the child with a wonderful imaginaeternal rest on Dec. 27th, 2018. family real-estate company that tion. She was kind and caring Expressions of condolence at was established by his grandwith a huge heart and smart www.HopewellFuneral.com. beyond her years of life. She got father Jack in 1954. Some of his civic activities include Plant her great sense of humor from City Chamber of Commerce diher mother. rector, Plant City Kiwanis Club She is survived by her uncle, past president and director, Andrew “Drew” William Strawn Christmas for an Angel commit(Stacy); great-grandparents, HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM tee, Advisory Council Plant City Alta Hall Edgemon, and Andrew Photo Archives and Plant City T. Edgemon (Patty); greatOutstanding Citizen of the Year uncles, Alex Edgemon (Ernie), Carolyn Roberson Committee Chairman. Zachary Edgemon (Amanda), Sterling Survivors include wife, Deband Perry Strawn (Belinda); bie Fender Gibbs, children Sara, great-aunt, Valerie DeArmond Andrew (Lauren), Paul, Luke, (Doug); and a host of cousins, Carolyn Roberson Sterling, Nathaniel, Anna and Philip; his family, and friends. 73, of Valrico, born on June 29, A Celebration of Life was held parents, Jack T. and Elizabeth 1945 in St. Petersburg, entered on Saturday, Dec. 29 at 1:00 p.m. (Cook) Gibbs, and sister-in-law into eternal rest on Dec. 27, Carole Wright. at Bethany Baptist Church 2018. He was preceded in death Expressions of condolence at Expressions of condolence at by his brother Doug “Gibber” www.HopewellFuneral.com. www.HopewellFuneral.com. Gibbs. Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, Jan. 3, 2019 at Plant City’s First HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#inbox?projector=1&messagePartId=0.1

OBITUARIES

Baptist Church, 3309 James L. Redman Pkwy. Visitation will be held one hour prior, from 10 a.m. to helping WE’R E P RO UD TO S E RV E our community to 11 am atwe’re the dedicated church. Burial willfamilies create a unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. be at Memorial Park Cemetery. celebrates the life it represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, In lieu of flowers, family re> 100% Service Guarantee > National Transferability quests donationsPlan to Ken Gibbs > The Compassion Helpline® > Bereavement Travel Assistance Family Education Fund, Hillsboro Bank, 509 W. Alexander St., Plant City, FL 33563.

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YOUR CALENDAR

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, JAN. 3

TOASTMASTERS 7:30 to 9 a.m. The Plant City Toastmasters Club 4051 will be having its meeting at the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, 106 N. Evers St., in the community room. Contact April Lubrano at 813-545-1607 for more information. CRAFTS NIGHT OUT 7 p.m. The free monthly Craft Night Out at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St., features a unique craft theme. Registration is required and the event is for adults only. This month turn your winter blues into a night of fun. The group will be making snow globes.

FRIDAY, JAN. 4

NIGHT AT NORMA’S 6 to 8:45 p.m. The monthly Night at Norma’s features a unique four-course dining experience at Norma’s Plant City Cuban Sandwich Shop, 120 N. Collins St. Each month features a unique menu. Tickets are $35 a person and reservations are required. Follow Norma’s on social media for updates on upcoming dinners.

SATURDAY, JAN. 5

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

SUPER DUPER BEGINNER HOOP WORKSHOP 2 to 5 p.m. at the Planteen Recreation Center, 301 N. Dort St. Cyrena Lang will teach a fitness workshop for kids and adults new to hula hooping. The workshop will also include a yoga wheel demo and a drawing to win a free beginner’s core hoop (must be present to win). Save $5 on any hoop purchase at the workshop. Pre-registra-

tion payments by PayPal of $15 can be sent to dragonhooper@ gmail.com to register. If you do not have this type of payment or need more information, call 813-453-0459.

BEST BET TUESDAY, JAN. 8

MAKE PLANT CITY 7 to 9 p.m. MAKE Plant City is a group of creatives and makers in the community. Mayor Rick Lott is this month’s keynote speaker. This month’s event is held at Mr. Sebas, 104 E. Reynolds St.

BLUEGRASS NIGHT JAM 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Krazy Kup is hosting its free monthly Bluegrass Night Jam. Any local Bluegrass musicians or fans are invited to head to the music loft at Krazy Kup and clap their hands, stomp their feet and jam to the music.

MONDAY, JAN. 7

PLANT CITY AREA DEMOCRATIC CLUB 6 p.m. The Plant City Area Democratic Club’s monthly meeting is held at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. There is social time at 6 p.m. and the meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. A representative of the community organization which promoted the Transportation Charter amendment and tax will attend to discuss what this means for Plant City and East Hillsborough.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 9

READ WITH BONNIE THE THERAPY DOG 4 to 5 p.m. at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St. Bonnie loves to snuggle up with anyone who wants to share a book

and some pats on the head. You can find her on the couch in the children’s area. Reading with Bonnie can help children improve reading, communication skills and build confidence. For children of all ages.

THURSDAY, JAN. 10

CHAMBER NETWORKING LUNCH 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the TECO Expo Hall at the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds, 2301 W. Oak Ave. Network with local business owners and catch a presentation by county commis-

sioner Stacy White. Tickets cost $25 for members ($20 if purchased by Jan. 4) and $30 for non-members of the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce. Register online at plantcity.chambermaster. com/eventregistration/register/8207. Contact Sophia Hyde at 813-754-3707 or sophia@plantcity.org for more information.

class to increase awareness of and educate the group on health literacy. This will include how to improve interactions with medical providers and how to better understand information about your health. Call 813-757-9215 to sign up.

HEALTH LITERACY 101 4 p.m. Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St., is hosting a Health Literacy 101

E U L A V WE YOUR 288245-1

! A C M Y y l i m a ity F C t n a l P e h t at 1507 YMCA Place, Plant City | 813 757 6677 | tampaymca.org

Fishhawk Ranch Market Day

Sunday, January 6th 9 am – 2 pm | Park Square (16144 Churchview Dr., Lithia)

1st Sunday of every month 40 + LOCAL FARMERS & ARTISANS HOT BREAKFAST & LUNCH VENDORS!

Contact Susan Parvin | 813-657-6629

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

Send your photo submissions to Associate Editor Justin Kline at jkline@PlantCityObserver. com or hashtag #iloveplantcity on Instagram for @igersplantcity to feature.

High: 83 Low: 67 Chance of rain: 20%

THURSDAY, JAN. 3

FRIDAY, JAN. 4 High: 83 Low: 61 Chance of rain: 80%

THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

SUNRISE / SUNSET

Sunrise Sunset

Thursday, Jan. 3

7:20a

5:45p

Friday, Jan. 4

7:20a

5:46p

Saturday, Jan. 5

7:20a

5:47p

Sunday, Jan. 6

7:20a

5:47p

Monday, Jan. 7

7:20a

5:48p

Tuesday, Jan. 8

7:20a

5:49p

Wednesday, Jan. 9

7:21a

5:50p

WEATHER

I LOVE PLANT CITY

FORECAST

MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, JAN. 5 High: 68 Low: 48 Chance of rain: 0%

SUNDAY, JAN. 6 High: 74 Low: 50 Chance of rain: 10%

Les Cole wins this week’s I Love Plant City photo contest. Calm winds and a 70-degree day inspired Les Cole to take out his camera to capture this scene of “Chamber of Commerce weather” at Walden Lake in December.

ONLINE

TOMATOES Shipping point: Central Florida $13.95

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rs yea

Jan. 5 New

Jan. 20 Full

Jan. 10 First

Jan. 31 Last

RAINFALL Monday, Dec. 24

0.00

Tuesday, Dec. 25 0.00 Wednesday, Dec. 26

0.00

Thursday, Dec. 27 0.00 0.00

Friday, Dec. 28

Saturday, Dec. 29 0.00 0.00

Sunday, Dec. 30 YEAR TO DATE:

MONTH TO DATE:

2019 0.00 in.

2018 0.08 in.

GOLD & SILVER

Diamonds & Precious Gems,

285826 287516-1

813.754.2360 | 1705 Jim Redman Pkwy. Plant City, 33563

1 Warrior princess played by Lucy Lawless 5 Netanyahu nickname 9 Grits go-with 15 Put an end to 19 Good fighter? 20 Principal water carrier 21 Type of roll 22 A violinist, violist and cellist might form one 23 After applying this answer’s first word to the start of the second ... United or American 26 Small stream 27 Suddenly bright star

28 Originates (from) 29 Far from fashionable 31 Try 34 Actress Russo 35 Colorful visualization in a weather report 36 Twelve, on a clock face 37 ... catches wind of 41 Shoo-___ (sure winners) 42 Krabappel of Springfield Elementary 44 Adams with the 1991 hit “Get Here” 45 Do a bar job 46 Raggedy ___ 48 Forest animal or animals 49 Farrow of “Rosemary’s

Baby” 50 Spacewalks, in NASA lingo 52 Farming prefix 55 ... often-automatic car feature 61 Japanese noodles 62 Tennis great Arthur 64 Way in 65 “What are ___ waiting for?” 66 A bit 67 Desdemona’s Shakespeare play 70 Ready to serve, at a bar 72 Battle 74 Custardy dessert

75 Health-care lobby org. 77 Spittoon sound 78 “Life of Pi” author Martel 79 Thing 1? 80 ... polite dude 85 Do part of a triathlon 86 Punch 87 Nev. neighbor 88 Blonde queen in “Frozen” 92 Albany is its capital (Abbr.) 94 Palindromic magazine 96 Certain Arabian Peninsula dweller 98 Compete on “American Idol” 99 Pester

101 ... two cubed 105 One of the Stooges 106 It’s taken for coll. credit 108 Post-Christmas curb sight 109 They couldn’t string Odysseus’ bow 111 Stormer of Iwo Jima 112 Midsize Kia model 115 Read a blog without commenting 116 Gets 100% on 117 ... natives for whom a Great Lake is named 122 “The One ___ Got Away” (Katy Perry hit) 123 Follows the edges of 124 Org. with the Final Four 125 Like some threats 126 Skirt lines 127 Getting ready to go home, say? 128 Start of an idea 129 Prepare for a baby bird

40 Embassy figure43 Lord Voldemort, for Harry Potter 47 Fills with disgust 51 Seabird that prays on penguin eggs 53 Ancient Colosseum visitor 54 Unique person, in old slang 56 Offspring of Loki 57 Nuptial vow 58 Potentially offensive, informally 59 Crime boss John, aka “The Teflon Don” 60 Electric shaver brand 62 Attorney follower 63 ... paper purchase 67 Switch positions 68 Metallica drummer Ulrich 69 Scrambles’ relatives 71 Sty inhabitant 73 Ob-___ 76 Final butterfly stage 81 Wrinkly citrus hybrid 82 Faddish berry DOWN 1 Gen ___ (millennial’s parent) 83 “___ of New York” (2002 period drama) 2 Twilight 84 Yale of Yale 3 Vaper’s craving 89 Elegant trip to a red carpet 4 Pain reliever brand 5 Health meas. calculated with gala 90 Tubes for shallow diving weight and height 91 Eons 6 Actor McDiarmid or 93 Peruse McShane 95 Restaurant’s specials, 7 Dallas, to sports fans often 8 Come into, in a way 96 Track-and-field legend 9 Powdery sport Jesse 10 Bring in the sheaves 97 Stereotypically boring 11 Anger office event 12 Egyptian goddess of 99 Jets quarterback who was motherhood the MVP of Super Bowl III 13 “12 Angry ___” (classic 100 Navajo neighbor 1957 film) 102 Experienced with 14 Like better 103 Squeak squelcher 15 Walk with a swagger 104 Scrabble piece 16 ... have the rights to 107 You might take them 17 Bottom of a crankcase shopping 18 Coral-forming animals 110 Shroud of ___ 24 Like a recently used 112 It forms on a healing cut bathrobe 113 Whale that eats seals 25 Place for a match 114 A single time 30 Tabula ___ 118 Suffix for “north” or 31 Fired “south” 32 Teaser trailer 119 Needlefish 33 Bell-shaped flower 120 Yosemite ___ (“Looney 35 Went berserk Tunes” character) 38 Certain tide 121 Harden 39 Stiletto, for one

CELEBRITY CIPHER

By Luis Campos Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

“O GUDM USVUTN CMMZ WMSOKGFMW UF FGM BJPNBMRF PH U ZMV WUT, U HJMNG FJT, PZM YPJM NFUJF.” – X.C. BJOMNFSMT “N FNJW YG OSHFFWKZW UVTWFA. N FNJW YG FWHMK -- TG N FNJW YG YMV KWR YSNKZT HKC YMV YG JWWD ZMGRNKZ.” – CHXNC TOSRNUUWM Puzzle Two Clue: A equals F

ACROSS

THE LONG AND SHORT OF IT by Timothy B. Parker

Puzzle One Clue: R equals C

CROSSWORD

SUDOKU

Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, JANUARY 3, 2019

PlantCityObserver.com