10.24.13 Plant City Times & Observer

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EXCLUSIVE

Maize maze Plant City, Strawberry stumps Plant Crest ready to resume City residents. hometown rivalry.

OUR TOWN

FREE • THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2013

Photog Stephanie Humphrey opens new studio space.

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sassy on the sidelines by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

PAYING IT FORWARD

by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Good deed makes the cut for aide

+ Tomlin dons pink for cancer cause

Amber Smith, aide to Florida state Rep. Dan Raulerson, completed recently 30 good deeds for her 30th birthday.

Students at Tomlin Middle School showed their support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month by wearing pink.

The school’s yearbook staff snapped this lovely photo of the student body outside of the school.

+ EPC to host special seminar

Evangelical Presbyterian Church will host a program to help stop human trafficking from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 26, at 1107 Charlie Griffin Road.

The program, called “Human Trafficking, What Can We Do?” will host a variety of speakers from Seven Rivers Presbyterian Church, Florida Coalition Against Human Trafficking, On Eagle’s Wings, Created Woman, Finally Home Adoption Services and Training and Safe Families for Children Tampa Bay. For more, visit face book.com/events/14145 72172093678/ or email Deborah Schreffler, deborahschreffler@yahoo.com.

+ Bruton library features folk artist

Bruton Memorial Library is featuring Lakeland folk artist Rodney Hardee for the next month on its Art Wall.

The library will host a Meet the Artist event from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 27, at the library, 302 W. McLendon St., Plant City. Hardee will be available to talk about his work and the work of other folk artists in the area.

He is included in the book, “20th Century American Folk, Self Taught, and Outsider Art,”

by Betty-Carol Sellen.

For more information about the exhibit, call (813) 757-9215.

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Photos by Amber Jurgensen

Strawberry Crest’s Giselle Gutierrez, Plant City’s Maddie Hardwick and Durant’s Bailey Polk are the pint-sized powerhouses on the gridiron sidelines every Friday night.

They’ve Got Spirit,

YES THEY DO! Don’t be fooled by their size. What these three cheerleaders lack in height, they more than make up for in spirit for Plant City, Durant and Strawberry Crest high schools.

They’re spunky. They’re sassy. And they’ve got spirit.

They cheer their hearts out at high school football games, attend rigorous practices and travel to away games. But, these three

leading squads at Plant City, Durant and Strawberry Crest high schools.

Each girl got her start on the sidelines differently.

But each follows a similar path in their quest to

learn, improve their skills and, of course, have fun.

BAILEY POLK, DURANT

Bailey Polk, 7, got her first break into cheerleading while sitting in the office at Durant High School.

Bailey’s mother, Heather Polk, works as the athletic secretary.

When coach Jessica Brower came into her office, she asked Bailey if she wanted to be the “assistant coach” for the day’s practice. By the end of practice, the Walden Lake second-grader’s charm scored her an invitation to participate as a guest cheerleader.

“My favorite thing about cheering is all about doing all the cheers,” Bailey said. “I think it’s fun being around all the high school girls, because they’re different ages.”

Bailey’s favorite cheer is “Gotta Hustle,” and she

This week’s winner is

Shawn Speaks See her photo on PAGE 14.

students aren’t even on their respective teams. Yet. Maddie Hardwick, Bailey Polk and Giselle Gutierrez are the elementaryage prodigies under the direction of the cheer-

GISELLE GUTIERREZ, STRAWBERRY CREST

MADDIE HARDWICK, PLANT CITY

Five-year-old Maddie Hardwick tumbles around her living room after gymnastics practice. The peppy princess is eager to show off her moves and cheers.

“We’ll blow you away,” Maddie recites as she blows a kiss. “We are the Raiders, and we are here to stay!”

It’s her favorite cheer as part of the Plant City High School cheer team.

Maddie’s been cheering alongside the squad since the middle of last season. It was her babysitter and Plant City cheerleader, Cassidy Wright, who led to Maddie’s up close and personal experience with the team.

As a pageant-winning beauty queen and talented musician, Giselle Gutierrez, 9, had no problem picking up the spotlight-demanding sport of cheerleading.

Her spunky personalty earned her a spot as Strawberry Crest High School’s cheerleading squad mascot. Giselle’s sister, Marissa Gutierrez, was the assistant coach and put in a good word for Giselle.

But, once that door opened, Giselle’s skills shined all on their own.

“Her sister would come

SEE DEEDS / PAGE 5

governance

by Michael Eng | Editor

WLCA leaders will host workshop

Walden Lake residents will have a chance to ask questions — and receive answers — about the potential golf course redevelopment.

After four months of following legal advice to remain silent, Walden Lake Community Association leaders decided Oct. 21, to host a workshop regarding the possible redevelopment of Walden Lake Golf & Country Club and the community’s two golf courses.

“We would very much like to hold a workshop with all interested parties invited to talk about the golf course,” said President Jan Griffin. “We would invite the manager/owner of Visions Golf (Steve Mercer) as well as the city planner. No date has been set. It will depend when the parties can meet.”

WLCA Director Bob Hunter said the decision to host the workshop is evidence of progress for the embattled eight-member board, which has been deadlocked in nearly every decision since its ninth member, former Vice President Marcus Alexich, resigned abruptly at the Sept. 16 meeting.

The workshop will be first time the

SEE WLCA / PAGE 4

SEE CHEERLEADER STORIES ON PAGE 4

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

Amber Smith walked into the Locks of Love cut-a-thon Oct. 16, at Plant City High School. Everyone turned to look. Her golden strands hung loosely past her hips. She had the longest hair the stylists had seen all day.

Never dyed, Smith’s hair was shiny and smooth. It was the perfect donation to the charity, which makes wigs for children who have lost their hair because of an illness.

She sat down nervously in the chair.

Cosmetology student Meghan Polk tied it into a Rapunzel-like ponytail.

Polk lifted the scissors to her hair.

Smith took a deep breath.

Snip. Snip. Snip.

It was gone. Just like that. Eighteen inches of hope were trimmed from the good-doer. But, she wasn’t finished yet.

The new do was part of Smith’s 30 good deeds — a goal she set for her 30th birthday, Oct. 13. She’s almost finished with the last few.

“There’s two ways you can look at

Vol.1,No.13 | Onesection Crossword...................14

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

Neighborhood...............7

Sports.........................11

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COMMUNITY

CALENDAR

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

Deadline is noon Thursday.

THURSDAY, OCT. 24

Strawberry Crest High School Presents “Oedipus Rex” — production takes place at 7 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 24, and Friday, Oct. 25, at the school, 4691 Gallagher Road, Dover. (813) 707-7522.

Weight Loss Surgery Information Sessions — takes place from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24, at Dr. Stephen Butler’s office, 4120 U.S. 98, Lakeland. Learn more about the advantages of the adjustable gastric band and sleeve gastrectomy procedures and see if surgical weight loss is an option for you. (813) 644-6720.

FRIDAY, OCT. 25 Uncork Your Weekend — live music from 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25, at Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. (813) 752-9100.

SATURDAY, OCT. 26 Childbirth Preparation Class — takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at South Florida Baptist Hospital, at 301 N. Alexander St., Plant City.

Registration required; cost is $20.

(813) 644-6720.

Uncork Your Weekend — live music from 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25, at Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. (813) 752-9100.

TUESDAY, OCT. 29 BNI Visitors Day — Business Network International will host this event from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 29, at the Elks Lodge, 1501 N. Alexander St., Plant City.

FAMILY FRIENDLY FESTIVITIES THURSDAY, OCT. 24 Bailey Elementary Fall Harvest — takes place at 4:30 p.m. Oct. 24, at 4630 Gallagher Road. (813) 7077531.

FRIDAY, OCT. 25 Cork Elementary Treat Night — takes place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 25, at the school, 3501 N. Cork Road.

(813) 757-9353.

Trapnell Elementary Fall Festival — takes place form 5 to 8 p.m. Oct. 25, at the school, 1605 W. Trapnell Road (813) 757-9313.

SATURDAY, OCT. 26 Fall Festival at the YMCA — takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 26, at the Plant City Family YMCA, 1507 YMCA Place. (813) 7576677.

Hope Lutheran Church Trunk or Treat — takes place

from 4 to 6 p.m. Oct. 26, at the church, 2001 N. Park Road. (813) 752-4622.

Plant City Halloween Spooktacular — takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. Oct. 26, at Planteen Recreation Center, 301 Dort St. (813) 6594256.

SUNDAY, OCT. 27 Plant City’s First Baptist Church Fall Children’s Festival — takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. Oct. 27, at the church, 503 N. Palmer St. (813) 752-4104.

THURSDAY, OCT. 31 Trick or Treat at the Library — takes place from 6 to 8:45 p.m. Oct. 31, at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 W. McLendon St. (813) 757-9215.

Roctoberfest — takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 31, at Church on the Rock of Plant City, 301 E. Alsobrook St.

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HONOR by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

TWIST AND TURNS by Michael Eng | Editor

Checkers owner earns top award

Layla Lopez 3, held her butterfly carefully at the end of a Gatorade-soaked cotton swab.

The cows didn’t mind having a few visitors to their home.

Left: Riley Fox, 5, worked on her steerroping skills.

MAIZE MAZE

Anthony Bailey, 7, relaxed in a giant sandbox filled, of course, with corn.

Families from throughout Tampa Bay flocked to Plant City for some old-fashioned family fun at the Fox Squirrel Corn Maze, at Single R Ranch.

The event features a 5-acre maze, pony rides, petting zoo, pumpkin patch, hay ride, butterfly experience and much more.

There still are two more weekends to enjoy the event. The maze will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, through Nov. 2, at the ranch, 3002 Charlie Taylor Road N., Plant City.

For more, visit fox squirrelcornmaze.com.

The Peacemakers performed live music on opening day.

The Fox Squirrel Corn Maze features fun for family members of all ages.

Craig Joy received Checkers’ Franchise of the Year award in September.

Chances are, patrons of Plant City’s Checkers Drive-In have enjoyed a sandwich made by the owner himself.

Craig Joy works besides his employees on the food line, takes orders and mans the cash register — all while doing what his name suggests: spreading a little joy. It’s this management style that earned him the company’s Franchise of the Year award earlier this year.

Joy received the award at Checkers‘ annual national convention last month, in Orlando.

The company chose Joy from about 120 other franchisees, representing a combined 460 locations, to nab the delicious title. There are 30 franchise locations in the Tampa Bay area alone.

“I was extremely surprised and taken aback,” Joy said.

“That was special.”

Joy wasn’t expecting the award, because he has won three other times. He has been operating Checkers franchises since 1989, opening his first in 1990, in St. Petersburg. Now, he owns restaurants in Brandon, Seffner, Plant City, Winter Haven and two in Lakeland.

“We’re lucky to have him,” Vice President of Franchise Development Jennifer Durham said.

Joy began his career in fast food at Taco Bell before meeting Checkers founder Jim Mattei. Joy loved the Checkers brand and food, so he jumped aboard as a franchisee, along with his wife, Janice.

Joy opened the Plant City location more than 20 years ago.

“Plant City is just a wonderful community,” he said. “We try to stay as involved as we can with the (Florida) Strawberry Festival and the schools. The people are really nice and support local business.”

Some of Joy’s employees have been with him almost the since he started. One of these employees is Plant City Checkers Manager Gail Gentry. When he visits, he notices Gentry’s excellent customer service. She knows customers by name and ends up talking with them at the pick-up window.

“She is such a great lady,” Joy said. “That’s the key. You have to really take care of your people, because then, they will take care of your guests.”

In addition to working alongside his employees, Joy keeps a high retention rate and gives them opportunities to climb the company ladder.

Joy recently recommended Gentry to start her own franchise in Buffalo, N.Y. Because of his recommendation, plans are underway to launch the new franchise.

“Crew members look to him as an inspirational leader,” Durham said. “He gives them an opportunity to grow more than the average fast-food job.

He cares about his people and really gives them an opportunity to grow professionally.”

Joy also implemented technologies to align with Checkers’ “Peak 150” strategy. The goal of “Peak 150” is to give customers a quality product and dining experience within 150 seconds.

To do this, Joy has installed drive-thru timers that clock vehicle time from the menu board to the pick-up window.

At the Plant City restaurant, he also has utilized an outside employee, who takes orders from cars behind the menu board.

The order is registered through the use of a tablet.

“We want to create a really good experience with our guests — from the time they look at our menu board to when they get their food,” Durham said. “Craig’s restaurants do a really good job with that.”

Besides operating his franchises, Joy serves on the Franchise Advisory Council, the submarketing committee, and president of the Tampa Bay Advertising Cooperative.

Joy lives in Clearwater with his wife. He has three children, one who also works for Checkers as the senior director of brand development.

“I wear a lot of different hats,” Joy said. “I’m busy and very actively involved in operations. I have an incredible team.”

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

Plant City’s Checkers is led by an award-winning owner.

Above: This year’s maze featured several routes. Right: Sarah Rogers, 8, loved competing at the rubber ducky race station.

Amber Jurgensen

education by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

YMCA launches new school readiness program

Play and Learn Together celebrated its open house last week.

The classroom for a new early learning readiness program at the Lorena Jaeb Rainbow House is ready for students. Colorful blocks sit on top of toddler-size tables. Baby books, a kitchen play center and puzzles are just some of the learning tools ready to be utilized by children and caregivers in the community.

The free program, run by the YMCA network of Tampa Bay, is designed for local children and their caregivers. Open to infants through age 5, the classes are held from 1 to 3 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

“We’re basically getting the children ready for school, where they would not have the capability to by themselves,” facilitator Michelle Kolch said.

In the classroom, multiple stations offer different activities to fine-tune motor skills, critical thinking and socialization. The stations vary from audio books to manipulatives, such as Play-Doh. Caregivers will have a chance to work be-

Amber Jurgensen

The new Plant City program features a variety of educational stations to encourage critical thinking, socialization and more. side their child at the different stations, learning techniques to help the child grow beyond the classroom and continue at home.

At the beginning of each session, caregivers will be given a chance to watch a video as part of “Caregiver Talks.” The videos cover certain topics, such as healthy eating habits

or handling temper tantrums.

Caregivers then can discuss the topics in a brainstorming group.

“It gives them a chance to thoroughly interact,” Kolch said.

The program also includes a snack time and outdoor playtime. Unlike a traditional daycare program, caregivers will

not be allowed to drop their children off at the facility.

“We want to utilize our center here in a simple enough manner, where caregivers can take what they’ve learned and use it at home,” Kolch said.

Kolch graduated from the University of South Florida with a degree in the education field. She taught at Mango Elementary before becoming a stay-at-home mother. Her family was part of the YMCA for five years. During that time, she decided to reenter the workforce with the YMCA. “I love the YMCA,” Kolch said. “It has such a great mission and does great charity work. I wanted to do this. I can really help children out.

“I immediately knew I had bigger things to do,” Kolch said. “I dropped off my résumé, it went down the pipeline and ended with this program.”

The program is part of the YMCA’s early learning readiness program. But every program is nicknamed something different. Kolch hopes to name the Plant City program

Play and Learn Together.

As a bonus, caregivers will receive a month’s free membership for their families to the Plant City YMCA if they attend each class for two consecutive months.

“That’s just huge, because it is a circle of health,” Kolch said. “Emotional, social and for the caregivers as well when they come to the program. The membership completes that circle.”

The program celebrated Oct. 17, its open house. About eight spots still are open, but Kolch said at 10 students, she will be able to grow the program to multiple days.

Kolch also needs interns and volunteers to help run the classes. She hopes to partner with Hillsborough Community College’s early childhood education program. Bilingual volunteers are especially needed, because Kolch’s expects many of the clients to be Spanish speakers.

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver. com.

PLAY AND LEARN TOGETHER EARLY READINESS PROGRAM WHEN: 1 to 3 p.m.

Tuesdays and Thursdays WHERE: Lorena Jaeb Rainbow House, 504 N. Palm Drive Suite 103.

Door faces Baker Street COST: Free CONTACT: Michelle Kolch, (813) 399-5173 or Michelle.Kolch@tampaYMCA.org

The program offers a variety of stations to help children learn skills for school.

• Infant/toddler station • Manipulatives • Art • Blocks • Math • Science • Music • Listening/reading • Dramatic play corner • Puzzles

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CHEERLEADERS / PAGE 1

BAILEY loves the jumps and fans.

“They’re kind of wild,” Bailey said. “(They make me) happy, because they yell and stuff, and it makes me want to cheer.”

The only roadblock she faces is the school’s mascot, a ferocious Cougar. She’s scared of it.

With one year’s previous experience on the Plant City Dolphins, Bailey’s skills are improving.

“She is doing great,” Brower said. “She has gotten so much better since the beginning of

MADDIE The Springhead Elementary kindergartner traveled with Cassidy to several team tournaments. That’s when the team decided to invite her to join as a guest cheerleader.

“It’s a good experience,” her mother, Melissa, said. “Kids don’t usually get to do those things.”

In addition practice and cheering at home games, Maddie also travels to away games, which are her favorite.

“They’re fun,” Maddie said.

Maddie had prior experience as an All-Star Stallion

GISELLE home and do all the cheers,” her mother, Dora Gutierrez, said. “She learned them all.

When they were looking for a mascot, she already knew the cheers.”

Giselle started gymnastics at 3 years old. A year later, she began cheering. She has worked for two years with Competitive Cheer, in Brandon, and with Florida AllStars.

Competitive cheering is fun for the Bailey Elementary student, but she loves cheering for the high school football players, too.

“It might help them,” Giselle said of her cheers. “It encourages them.”

Giselle’s favorite cheer is

WLCA / PAGE 1 the year. I think she probably knows all of the words to all of our cheers.”

Bailey also serves as motivation for the team.

“She definitely holds the girls accountable,” Brower said. “If they slip and mess up or aren’t doing what they are supposed to be doing, she will let them know.

“Bailey certainly motivates them; she is always full of energy and ready to go,” she said. “She actually asked to go on our conditioning run at a recent practice. A 7-year-old conditioning— that was definitely motivation for all of us.” and started gymnastics when she was 3. She also attended Plant City’s cheer team’s summer clinics. Head coach Karen Snapp said Maddie’s skills keep growing.

“She’s actually very good for 5 years old,” Snapp said. “She’s very cute and very serious.”

Melissa, who took dance when she was young, wanted to get Maddie involved in a hobby early.

“Extracurricular stuff is good,” she said. “It makes them well-rounded.

It’s helped her with her social skills. She talks to everyone; I can’t get her to stop.”

“First Down,” and she can’t get enough of back handsprings. Giselle also enjoys all the new friends she has made.

“They’re really nice,” Giselle said. “If they make up new cheers during practice, they help me learn it. Or if I forgot something, they go over it with me.”

Giselle also plays drums and guitar with the Kids Rock program at school. She also enjoys piano, painting, pageants and designing clothes for her Barbies.

Giselle hopes to continue cheering when she gets to high school.

“She is a little stick of dynamite,” her father, Andy Gutierrez, said. “She sets her mind on a goal, and she is relentless.”

WLCA addresses the potential redevelopment since July 15, when the board hosted a meeting at the HCC Plant City John R. Trinkle Center. About 100 residents attended that meeting and asked board members and the community’s hired attorneys dozens of questions about the WLCA’s position and what resident could do to combat the redevelopment.

At that time, Bush Ross attorney Web Melton said his firm would take residents’ questions and find answers. However, at last month’s meeting, WLCA board members admitted they did not have a record of the residents’ questions.

Shelly Orrico, who has spearheaded the campaign to fight the redevelopment, along with Don Marshall, Terry Murphy and other residents, reconstructed the list of questions and presented them to the WLCA board and Bush Ross attorneys Melton and Steven Mezer at Monday’s meeting (see sidebar). The board did not answer the questions, and Mezer declined to say whether he had any plans to do so.

“You can’t ask me that,” he said. “I’m an attorney.”

Hunter indicated the workshop not only would be a forum at which residents can ask questions but also one at which WLCA leaders will give answers.

Furthermore, he said he hopes to be able to answer some of the residents’ questions before the workshop takes place.

“The intent is not for the board just to sit there but rather for us to be responsive,” Hunter said. “We told the attorneys that our intention was to allow for residents to express themselves, and if we could get some answers for them, we would.”

BUDGET APPROVED

WLCA leaders approved Oct. 21, a preliminary budget for the next fiscal year.

“The good news is that it is the same amount as the 2013 budget, and dues will remain the same,” Griffin said.

RAMPART TALKS RESUME

Board members also agreed to negotiate with current prop-

erty management company Rampart Properties for a oneyear contract.

This decision comes one month after the board voted 5-3 to hire L.E. Wilson & Associates Inc. as its new management company and two months after it voted 5-4 not to allow Rampart to propose a new contract.

DEADLOCKED ON NEW DIRECTOR

After postponing its discussion on who would replace former Vice President Marcus Alexich, the WLCA board still was deadlocked 4-4.

Griffin, Treasurer Karen Olson and directors Steve Swantek and Heather Updike have voted twice for former state Rep. Rich Glorioso. Conversely, Secretary/Parliamentarian Jim Chancey and directors Bruce Rodwell, Bob Hunter and Ray Page voted for Forest Club resident Sharon Philbin, who has been active in the fight against the country club and golf course redevelopment.

The board decided to revisit the issue at its November meeting.

NO NEW VP, EITHER

The board also was deadlocked in choosing a new vice president.

Griffin, Olson, Swantek and Updike supported appointing Updike as the new vice president, while Chancey, Rodwell, Hunter and Page supported Chancey’s bid for the role.

BOARD SPLIT ON OLSON

After hearing from 16 residents asking for Olson’s resignation, Chancey introduced the motion to the board.

Again, the board split 4-4 — Griffin, Olson, Swantek and Updike voted not to ask for the resignation; Chancey, Rodwell, Hunter and Page supported the motion.

PRESIDENTS’ MEETING RESCHEDULED

The WLCA board will host is Presidents Meeting at 5 p.m.

Oct. 29, at 3035 Griffin Blvd. It originally was scheduled for Oct. 22; however, the board opted to change the date to allow for proper notice to be given to residents.

RESIDENTS’ QUESTIONS

These are some of the questions that were submitted Oct. 21, to the Walden Lake Community Association and its attorneys at Bush Ross, P.A. For the full list of questions, visit PlantCityObserver.com.

1. In 2008, the Golf Course owners filed a legal complaint against WCI and the Walden Lake Community Association seeking “to have the restrictions removed enabling the golf course owners to possibly move forward with development plans before 2015.” Why didn’t the WLCA leadership and the attorneys inform residents?

2. What does the leadership on this board know about developments, and when did you know it?

3. In July, the WLCA leadership said the attorneys recommended they not meet with hundreds of residents gathering at the Community Center. Why not?

4. In late July, the WLCA finally held a meeting at the Trinkle Center. The residents were told their questions would be recorded and subsequently answered by the attorney. Why weren’t these questions recorded?

5. Olson has objected to the nomination of a volunteer to serve on the board, on the grounds of “conflict of interests ... because she lives on The Hills ... and is associated with ‘those people’ trying to save the golf course.” Olson and Griffin own property on the non-affected part of the golf course. Is this not a double standard?

6. Have some members and their spouses of the board had lifetime golf memberships grandfathered in part by the golf owners?

7. If the golf course owners schedule a rezoning of the golf course, will the WLCA take a position, one way or the other?

8. Has the WLCA attorney provided any written advice on the golf course subject, and if so, could this pleased be shared with the full board, at minimum?

9. Is the WLCA board currently planning to take an advisory type role once the rezoning process gets underway? Please explain to what extent.

10. Is the WLCA making complaints to the city regarding code violations? If not, why not? Why is this being left to individual homeowners?

11. Because the golf course owners filed under Chapter 11 and used the economic downturn in this community as justification for their business losses, have the WLCA attorneys reviewed those bankruptcy proceedings to be certain there was full disclosure and that commitments to the federal court are being fulfilled today?

12. There are legal agreements from years ago, that speak to the maintenance and operation of the property as a “premier golf course” (some 15 to 25 years). Have the attorneys reviewed these documents? Have they considered legal action for failure to maintain said property as a premier 36-hole facility pursuant to these legal documents? Have the WLCA attorneys considered punitive damages to the community as a whole for shuttering much of the golf course?

13. Can the WLCA leadership provide resident members a list of vendors that received more than $1,000 a year in the last seven years?

14. Does the WLCA leadership demand at least three sealed bids on any expenditure over a determined amount and a full board vote?

15. Will the WLCA leadership provide biographical information and require each board member to disclose internally to the board, any potential conflicts?

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Photos by Amber Jurgensen

Amber Smith, legislative aide to Florida state Rep. Dan Raulerson, donated 18 inches of hair to Locks of Love, as part of her 30 good deeds.

Smith’s hair will be used to make wigs for children who have lost their hair because of an illness. Smith celebrated her 30th birthday by completing 30 good deeds.

turning 30,” she said. “You can either get depressed, or you can really look at this as a new chapter of life and setting the tone of what the next chapter will be like.”

Smith got the idea last summer. Since then, she’s been brainstorming and asking others what good deeds she should do. She started good-deed to-dos this month.

Some deeds are spontaneous. While going to dinner in Clearwater with her boyfriend, Smith noticed all the parking meters on her row were expired. She dropped quarters in each of them.

She also leaves quarters in bubble-gum machines at the supermarket, so unsuspecting children will get a tasty treat.

“Surprising little things like that people love,” Smith said.

Some good deeds were more calculated.

Smith has bought popcorn packets and taped them to Redbox machines. She doubled the amount of a lunch check to leave a $20.40 tip. And, she bought a meal for a friend who runs her own business and can’t leave the premises during lunch.

Many of the deeds are small with a playful touch, with others hit closer to Smith’s heart. She donated shoes to migrant workers, dinner and movie gift cards to veterans at James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital and pajamas and toiletries to victims of human trafficking.

“A lot of organizations need little things, and this was a time to focus on that,” Smith said.

One of her favorite deeds was a simple gesture to a homeless man. He was holding a sign at an intersection in Westshore that said, “Hungry.” She looked down at a container of fruit in her passenger seat. She rolled down the window and gave it to him.

“I might not have thought to give him something if I wasn’t doing this,” Smith said. “It’s really opened my eyes. I can see more opportunities now.”

But, the crowning deed was her Locks of Love donation. Smith had donated her hair twice before. The first time was during her time at Salem College, in North Carolina.

The school paper was calling for makeovers, and she had been wanting to donate her hair. Smith ended up donating 15 inches.

The second time was in 2009, at a community expo, in Carollwood. She was able to give about 12 inches.

“It’s exciting,” Smith said. “I always get nervous right before. But, (because) I’ve done it before, that always helps.”

Smith had been growing her hair out, but when she saw the article on Locks of Love, she knew that was her opportunity.

Although her family was aware she was growing it out, they had no idea the day she chopped it all off.

She didn’t tell her boss, state Rep. Dan Raulerson, about the change either. She works as a legislative aide to the state representative. Smith wants to see how long it will take him to notice the drastic change.

“One of the most exciting things about cutting hair is seeing other people’s reactions,” Smith said.

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@ plantcityobserver.com.

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fall harvest by Michael Eng | Editor

JOSHING AROUND

Raelyn Oldham, 1 month, seemed to enjoy her first trip to the pumpkin patch.

Madison Pelham, 7, loves being in front of the camera.

Austin Clendening, 3, loved climbing on the church’s jungle gym.

Trading self-image, shoes in obedience

It began at the Plant City YMCA. I am not as self-conscious as I used to be. Like acne, it was more of teenage problem that I outgrew with just the occasional occurrence.

Recently, a huge, painful pimple of self-image popped up on the nose of my psyche. Why now?! The self-image zit had popped up due Courtesy photos to a couple of factors: My 15-yearTom was elated to trade his old old daughter just moved in with shoes for some new Adidas. us, forcing me to remember the awkwardness of adolescence and go outside to meet him. the high amounts of estrogen in soy Greeting me with a genuine smile, milk. (Yes, I have my daily coffee at Tom gave me a huge welcome with Starbucks with steamed soy — it is a rare sincerity. He didn’t notice my signature drink.) my shoes, though I noticed his. His To focus at the YMCA, I wear carefree attitude made me feel earbuds to drown out the comfortable enough for a moawkward grunts of grown ment to sit down with him. men flexing and throwing Then, the pimple came around weights as I stare at back. During our talk, I started the floor to protect my eyes feeling self-conscious as from women in spandex. people drove by, giving disapBecause my wife works out proving looks. To show I was there too, it is not good to “not like him” and stiffening stare at the spandex. my posture, I literally put my As I gazed at the floor and best foot forward, showing all JOSH panted for breath from the LOUDERMILK who passed by that I was “one fatigue of trying elude my of them.” My membership 40s (having a teen in your into decent society was still house also makes you feel old), poor self-image reared its ugly head, when valid. I wanted them to see that I was sitting with him to “help” Tom. I was hit with the realization that my But was I really? shoes were out-of-style and ugly.

God humbled me. Tom pointed Silly, I know. out his pastor, who was riding on a Once a stranger to fashion, I now was lured by its potential to hide ugly bike to come meet with him. To meet him on the street? Yes, he peddled up pimples of insecurity. Guys at the and paused to talk to us. I kept silent, Y were sporting flashy shoes with feeling the conviction that comes neon colors! My old shoes made the from being surrounded by selfless pimple of self-awareness throb, and I felt as out of place as an Amish man folks. When the pastor asked if he could pray for me, I nodded, knowin Best Buy. ing I needed it.

That night, I asked my wife, MeLooking at Tom’s feet while we lissa, to help me find new, colorful prayed, I realized we wore the sameshoes. I was on a mission and soon sized shoes. After the prayer and landed the coolest pair of Adidas when the pastor left, I asked Tom if — adorned with neon greens and he would trade shoes with me. yellows. I had found my Clearasil!

Tom took off his sunglasses and I wore my new shoes to the gym looked me in the eye. He asked, “Are and was careful to keep them clean. you serious, man?”

These magic shoes allowed me to I told him the truth: that God was strut out of the Middle Ages haunted leading me to do this and it would by adolescent insecurities. be an honor. As Tom put on my I was “in.” It felt good, for a monew shoes, his eyes lit up and smile ment. adorned his face. He was giddy!

Casual Friday at work was like the Standing up, he bounced on them Prom. My shoes were the focus, and and kept admiring the colors and I built an entire wardrobe around comfort. their charisma. With messed up Tom left to ride his bike back to gelled hair, comfortable jeans, casual his camp and show them to his dad. shirt and a stubby unshaven face; I Not me. I sat on the curb in tears, intentionally looked unintentional. while God’s acceptance penetrated It takes a lot of care to pull off the “I the roots of my insecurity. Jesus had don’t care” look. asked me to trade shoes with Him. I Taking my laptop bag and new was unworthy to wear them. So, in confidence, I swaggered over to the Starbucks, leaving the commonplace humility mixed with repentance, I put them on and walked. They were culture behind and flexing my new much more comfortable than my confidence. shoes before, and at that moment, I Blasted by the sounds of regidentified with Jesus, not Adidas. gae music and other self-absorbed The pimple of self-image was customers tersely ordering their nocured by humble self-denial, and foam, triple-shot, soy, and extra-hot not “trying” to fit in is indeed freelattes; my confident eyes scanned ing. We all should embrace that as the horizon and landed on somewe embrace those who live in our thing that did not fit. peripheral vision.

He sat on the curb next to the Plant City resident Josh Loudermilk parking lot in the peripheral view is a traveling evangelist who is availof life. Holding a tattered cardboard sign asking for spare change able to speak to churches and groups.

He is the founder of Louder Life. For with his bike propped up on the fence behind him, this young man more information or for booking information, email livelouder@yahoo. seemed untouched by the world com. that was so self-absorbed. I had to

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Gracen Cowen, 2, made for an irresistibly adorable sunflower.

First United Methodist pumpkin patch plump with gorgeous gourds

Cooper Cowen, 6, found the perfect pumpkin for his family.

Plant City families searched last weekend for their perfectly plump pumpkins at First United Methodist Church’s annual pumpkin patch.

The patch, a fundraiser for the church’s youth ministry, features plenty of fall photo ops, a playground and, of course, plenty of pumpkins of all shapes and sizes.

The patch will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily at the church, 303. N Evers St. If any preschools wish to bring classes to the patch, call Youth Director Philip Brooks, (813) 754-3519.

Patch-goers also took time to play on the church playground.

faith by Amber Jurgensen | Associate Editor

Greater Love church selects pastor Taurus Davis has served as bishop for the past year.

Bishop Taurus Davis ago, in Tampa. He was GREATER LOVE wasn’t expecting the preaching there and CHRISTIAN CENTER working as a superviresponsibility of leading a church when he sor of remodels for ADDRESS: 1109 N. came to Greater Love Walmart at the same Franklin St. Christian Center a time.

PHONE: (813) 759-8270 year ago.

When Echols’ health SERVICE TIMES: “I just came to help,” began to decline, Noon Saturdays; 11 Davis said. “I never Greater Love Christian a.m. Sundays; 7 p.m. knew I’d be asked to Center called for DaWednesdays carry it on.” vis’ help.

However, after the “The goal I have for former pastor, Franklin Echols died this location is to show them the true in March, the church tapped Davis to love of Christ,” Davis said. “One of the take the reins. Davis’ installation ser- things we want our people to know vice took place Oct. 19. is we love you in spite of, because Born into a pentecostal family, Da- of. I believe everyone has issues and vis didn’t waste any time sharing his struggles.” faith. He began at just 8 years old and Part of his preaching style, Davis obtained his first official license at 12. wants his congregation to know he is Davis received his education at not judgmental.

Moody Bible Institute, in Chicago.

“In order to help the world, we There he studied Methodist prac- cannot condemn the world,” Davis tices, leading to his pastoring of both said. “It is my goal to be a community Methodist and Baptist denomina- pastor, and I want the community tions. In 1993, he was consecrated as to know we are here to try and help a bishop. them.”

Originally from Miami, Davis travDavis also wants to be an apeled up the coast of Florida, planting proachable figure. He’s known for his churches in Ft. Myers and Naples. He high-fives, sense of humor and givfounded Faith Cathedral three years ing out his personal phone number,

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To contact us, send your information via: Email: Michael Eng, meng@PlantCityObserver.com.

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

CONTACT US The Plant City Times & Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. It provides free home delivery to several neighborhoods in Plant City.

The Plant City Times & Observer also can be found in many commercial locations throughout Plant City and at our office, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100-A. If you wish to discontinue home delivery or if you wish to suspend home delivery temporarily, call Linda Lancaster at 704-6850.

Courtesy photo

Taurus and Sharon Davis are excited to be a part of the Plant City church.

rather than the church office number.

“I want people to know me personally,” Davis said.

Davis currently serves as the bishop of protocol at C.L.U.R.T International Assemblies, under Bishop George G. Bloomer. He lives in Riverview with his wife, Sharon, and two children, Tashara, 2, and Taurus Jr., 7 months.

Contact Amber Jurgensen at ajurgensen@plantcityobserver.com.

Plant City Times &

Observer General Manager/Editorial / Michael Eng, meng@PlantCityObserver.com

General Manager/Advertising / Tony Del Castillo, tdelcastillo@tampabay.com Assistant Managing Editor / Jess Eng, jeng@PlantCityObserver.com Associate Editor / (Community) Amber Jurgensen, ajurgensen@PlantCityObserver.com Staff Writer / Justin Kline, jkline@PlantCityObserver.com Advertising Executives / Veronica Prostko, vprostko@tampabay.com; Joanna Verga, jverga@tampabay.com Circulation/Office Manager / Linda Lancaster, llancaster@PlantCityObserver.com

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

Neighborhood R E A L E S TAT E | P L A N T C I T Y L I F E | O B I T U A R I E S | G A M E S | FA I T H | S P O RT S

PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

CLUB HUBBUB

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2013

PICTURE PERFECT by Michael Eng | Editor

If your club would like to post announcements, email them to Associate Editor Amber Jurgensen, ajur gensen@plantcityobserver. com.

+ Plant City Daybreak Rotary

Mark your calendar for an enjoyable evening with great food, local music, silent auction, drinks and cigars at Daybreak Rotary’s fourth annual Country Cracker Feast.

The feast takes place at 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25, at the home of George and Cassandra Banning, 2506 Clubhouse Drive.

Tickets are $75 per person. For tickets, call (813) 752-1025.

+ P.C. Commons Community Garden The Plant City Commons Community Garden will be hosting a non-GMO picnic potluck to celebrate Food Day from 5 to 7 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 24, at the garden, 309 N. Carey St. Created by the nonprofit Center for Science in the Public Interest, Food Day is a nationwide celebration of the movement toward a more healthy, affordable and sustainable lifestyle.

Bring non-GMO food to share at the picnic.

For more information about high-risk GMO crops, visit nongmoproject.org.

For more information, contact Karen Elizabeth,12circle8@gmail. com or (813) 435-8111.

+ Relay for Life Plant City

The committee for Relay for Life Plant City is still looking for a sponsorship chair for the 2014 event.

The sponsorship chair will be responsible for procuring pledges from local businesses in order to sustain the event, among other tasks.

If interested, contact Linda Herman, lindaherman@mac.com, or Cathy Vallianatos, Cathy.

Vallianatos@cancer.org.

+ Plant City Noon Rotary

Tickets for the annual Dancing with the Locals charity event are on sale.

The event will take place at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 15, at the HCC Plant City John R. Trinkle Center, 1206 N. Park Road.

Tickets are $100 each and include open bar, hors d’oeuvres and dessert at intermission. Sponsorship packets are also available for $300, $600 and $750.

For more information, call Marcus Caswell at (863) 412-2880 or email him at marcus@wishfarms.com.

Beholder OF THE EYE

Michael Eng

Photographer Stephanie Humphrey loves the way the natural light tumbles into her new downtown studio.

Photographer Stephanie Humphrey has an uncanny ability to capture Plant City’s heart and soul within the thousands of images she has produced. Now, with a new downtown studio, she hopes her cameras can capture even more.

It is not hyperbole to say Stephanie Humphrey has an eye for details.

The Plant City photographer opened recently her first studio, situated off Collins Street in Historic Downtown Plant City. It’s one large, open room, with dreamy natural light pouring in from the storefront windows and backdrops and portrait lighting situated at the back. With exposed brick walls, painted concrete floors, shabby chic décor and Humphrey’s new logo in the window, the studio is both historic and hip — and an extension of Humphrey’s personality.

Everything is situated just so. If there is a bump or crease in the area rug on the floor, Humphrey will smooth it out. She doesn’t care for the flat-screen LCD she uses to show clients their images — because it covers the beautiful brick — but con-

cedes it is a necessary evil.

The typical portrait photographer clutter — props, outfits, backdrops — all are tucked away in the back.

Humphrey wants her studio perfect. Picture perfect.

“I’ll zoom 100 times in (on a photo) to make sure its right,” Humphrey says, smiling. “People will say, ‘It’s not going to print (that large),’ but I need to know it’s right.”

It may sound obsessive, but Humphrey’s attention to detail has earned the selftaught photographer plenty of work. Even if you haven’t heard of Humphrey’s name, you likely have seen her work. She’s photographed some of Plant City’s most notable events, including Plant City High School’s annual Calendar Girls pageant.

She’s also photographed the Florida Strawberry Festival Queen and Court for several years for the Plant City Lions Club’s annual pageant book.

But, her favorite projects come from what started it all: portraits of high school seniors.

“We capture what they are into at that point in their lives,” Humphrey says of her seniors. “They probably will change quite a bit in the next four years, but this is who they are right now.

“For the moms, I’m capturing the loves of their lives,” she says. “And for the kids, they’re ready to enter the next phase of their lives.

They have voices, and they want to be heard. That’s what I try to help them do.”

And for Humphrey, capturing the lives of those who call Plant City home is dream come true. Even if she never saw it coming.

A SHUTTERBUG IS BORN

Humphrey and her family moved in the 1970s to Plant

SEE PHOTOG / PAGE 8

Stephanie Humphrey Photography

Photographer Stephanie Humphrey also enjoys taking engagement portraits.

FIRST KISS

Dustin and Jessica Bailey may be the only couple in the world who has a photo of their first kiss.

While they were in high school, Dustin, a friend of Stephanie Humphrey’s oldest son, Eric, had asked Jessica to the Prom as friends. Always a practical joker, Dustin thought it would be funny to plant one right on Jessica’s lips.

He told Humphrey of the plan, and she had her camera ready.

Years later, the Baileys used the photo as part of their wedding slideshow.

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PHOTOG / PAGE 7 City, when she was just in the third grade.

When she was in junior high, she received her first camera — a Kodak 110 — as a gift from her grandmother.

Immediately, a photographer was born.

“I was the kid who always had the camera,” she remembers. “I’d make my sister and cousins pose in the front yard. I’d do a lot of beach sunsets, too. I thought I was fantastic.”

Humphrey always harbored an artistic side. She loved doing hair and makeup, and as a child, she spent many hours rearranging and redecorating her bedroom.

“My mother never knew what my room was going to look like when she opened the door,” Humphrey says.

Humphrey graduated in 1986, from Plant City High School. After she and her husband, Byron, had their three sons, Eric, 27, Ryan, 26, and Kent, 19, she dedicated her time to raising the children.

As the boys rose through the ranks of athletics — from Little League through high school football — Humphrey always had her camera at the ready. Soon, she started taking photos of not only her sons but also their teammates.

She then chose the best images, placed them in white envelopes and delivered them to the locker rooms.

Soon, other parents stopped bringing

their own cameras to the games, relying on Humphrey to take photos of the whole team.

As her boys grew into teenagers, Humphrey started shooting Homecoming and Prom dances. The hobby quickly was turning into something more. And in those days of film and processing, costs added up.

“My husband eventually said, ‘You need to start making money doing this, or we have to cut you off,’” Humphrey remembers.

At a photography conference in Tampa, Humphrey met wildlife photographer Bill Fortney. His book, “Great Photography Workshop,” became the base of Humphrey’s image education. She learned about white balance, color and more. Then, a switch to digital gave her the freedom to experiment, fine-tune and grow.

CLASS ACTS

Some high school seniors come to Humphrey with a lifetime of experience in front of the camera. Most come with hobbies — playing on an athletic team or having an interest in music, drama or other activity.

One of Humphrey’s most memorable clients came only with a love of jeans. Blue jeans.

After much deliberation, Humphrey decided to have the client string her denim collection on a clothesline as a background. The result was one of Humphrey’s favorite senior portraits.

Another client loved pigs. So phrey’s website and asked if much so that her father borshe would be interested in STEPHANIE rowed one from a friend to use working as a second shooter.

HUMPHREY PHOTOGRAPHY as a prop.

Mason would take the can’t“These seniors have so many miss shots, while Humphrey ADDRESS: 301 S. unique traits, and I tell them focused on candids, detail Collins St., Suite 101, not to compare themselves shots and others.

Plant City with others,” Humphrey says. “I Since then, the two have PHONE: (813) 759want them to be unique, to be partnered dozens of times, 0826 themselves. and now, weddings and enWEBSITE: stephaniehu “I love watching them realize gagements are among Hummphreyphotography.com how beautiful they really are,” phrey’s favorite shoots. She’s she says. even been asked to shoot And, contrary to popular beengagement photos for selief, it’s not just the girls who love hamming it niors she shot at the end of high school. up in front of Humphrey’s lenses. The guys — “I love going back,” she says. “That’s a huge although often requiring a little more coaxing honor.” at the beginning — don’t mind the superstar treatment, too.

EYE ON THE FUTURE “Oh, they get into it,” Humphrey says, Humphrey admits driving by her studio laughing. “And they should. The next time more than once the day her new logo was they’ll have this many photos taken of them installed in the center window. The simplewill be at their wedding.” yet-timeless image — a vintage bird wearing And yes, Humphrey does those, too. Al- a crown — was designed by her office neighthough, she was reluctant at first — and for bor, Agency M33, a creative design and margood reason. keting firm.

At first, Humphrey balked at the crown.

A DAY TO REMEMBER After all, she doesn’t consider herself royalty.

For years, Humphrey simply refused to Moreover, the majority of her clients aren’t take any wedding gigs. But, it wasn’t because pageant queens. But, the more she thought of a lack of interest or her fear of bridezillas. about it, she realized the crown was the perIt was something much deeper, much more fect branding image for her business. personal.

“For the moms, every kid is special; ev“My husband and I got married 28 years ery kid is royalty,” she says. “That’s how they ago, and we have no wedding photos,” Hum- should feel.” phrey says. “I don’t know if the cameras failed With her studio now open, Humphrey is or the film went bad or what, but we literally working toward earning Certified Professiondo not have wedding pictures. al Photographer status. The application pro“So, for me, I thought there was just too cess includes a portfolio critique by a panel of much responsibility on that day,” she says. master photographers.

“I could never forgive myself if I was hired to “That will be validation for me,” Humphrey shoot a wedding and then wasn’t able to give says. “I do want to be the best.” them photos. Those are just too valuable.

She also hopes to utilize her new space to And I know, because I don’t have any.” produce more images for the town she loves.

However, after a chance meeting with “I’ve always dreamed of something like Valrico-based photographer Jeff Mason four this,” she says of her studio. “I’ve been told years ago, she changed her mind. Humphrey I could go to South Tampa (to shoot), but I attended a wedding for which Mason was want to have my business here in Plant City. hired to shoot. Humphrey had her camera “This is my city, and these are my people,” there, too, and took some shots for the fam- Humphrey says. “This is who I want to phoily. The two photographers exchanged cards, tograph.” and two days later, Mason called. He was Contact Michael Eng at meng@plantcityobimpressed with the work he saw on Hum- server.com.

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FAITH MATTERS

Hope Lutheran preps for Reformation Day Most people naturally equate and become righteous before Oct. 31 with Halloween and a God by grace for Christ’s sake day to take the kids door-tothrough faith.” Basically, what door and fill up with candy to was said then still holds today: keep the family dentist in busiWe cannot buy or earn God’s ness for another year. forgiveness. In Luther’s day, the But, few people know that church was in the practice of October is much more than selling what was known as an just a day for costumes “indulgence,” payment and candy. The origin of given to the church Halloween comes from for forgiveness. Today, what is observed on Nov. that practice is carried 1, namely All Saints Day, out in various forms, when the church pauses as well as through to thank God for the lives the practice of “penof His “saints,” who now ance.” We need to draw rest with Him in heaven. comfort from God’s Halloween literally Word, as recorded by REV. DEAN R. means, “All Hallows Eve.” the prophet Jeremiah PFEFFER For many of us in (31:34): “For I will forthe church, Oct. 31 is a give their sin, and I will day in which we give thanks remember it no more.” We see to God for one of His faithful that God is the one who forservants, Dr. Martin Luther, gives, and for us to think or do who began what, over time, anything else for that forgivehas become known as the ness is like looking at the cross Protestant Reformation. At and telling our Lord that what Hope Lutheran Church, we will He did for us that Good Friday celebrate the Festival of the simply was not enough.

Reformation with services at 8 There are many other areas and 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 27, which the early reformers of at 2001 N. Park Road. We also the church voiced their diswill join with five other Luagreement with the practice theran Church Missouri Synod and belief at the time, but this congregations at 3:30 p.m. As is the most central teaching we do this, we look forward to of Scripture and one that we Reformation Day, Oct. 31, 2017, in the Lutheran church today the 500th anniversary of the holds central to all that we beReformation. lieve, teach and confess.

The goal of Luther and the Let me encourage you, this other reformers of his day Reformation, to celebrate the was not to form a new church gift of free grace that God offers body, much less one that bears to each of us and to give thanks Luther’s name. His goal was, to God for the work of all the as seen in the word, “reformaearly reformers in the church tion,” was to reform those who labored and even gave primary teachings. At that time, their lives that the message the Roman Catholic church had of God’s unlimited, free and strayed from what was taught abounding love for us in Christ in Scripture. could and would be freely Foremost among those areas shared by all, because it is of difference that led to LuGod’s desire that all people be ther’s actions as stated in the saved and come to a knowledge “Book of Concord” is that “we of the truth. cannot obtain forgiveness of The Rev. Dean R. Pfeffer is the sins and righteousness before senior pastor at Hope Lutheran God based on our own merits, Church, Plant City. For more, works or sanctifications, but email him at hopepcpastor@ we receive forgiveness of sin gmail.com.

OBSERVEROBITUARIES Ignatius P. Annalora

Ignatius P. Annalora, 83, of Plant City, died Oct. 18, 2013, at Winter Haven Hospital.

Born Sept. 11, 1930, in Lockport, N.Y., he was the son of the late Fred and Mary Beaumonte Annalora. He was the husband of Betty Walker Annalora, who survives.

He served as a technical sergeant from 1951 to 1953 in the U.S. Army and was a lifetime member the VFW. Survivors also include sons, Danny (Sue) Annalora and Glenn (Mary) Annalora; daughters, Susan Annalora, Linda (John) Gregory, Lorraine (Doug, deceased) Johnson and Teresa Guidry; brother, Tony (Carolyn) Annalora; sister, Jessee (Myron) Blood; and 11 grandchildren.

The family is having private services.

Online condolences may be made to the family at haughtfuneralhome.com.

James Watt Barber

James Watt Barber, 88, of Plant City/Auburndale, died Oct. 18, 2013.

Born March 17, 1925, in Georgia, he was the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Willie Barber. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ethel.

He served from 1943 to 1946, in the U.S. Navy and loved fishing and walking.

Survivors include a son, Michael Barber; daughters, Shirley Hammock, Connie Hamilton, Donna (Nolan) Johnson and Pam (Tom) Gearen; eight grandchildren; 12 greatgrandchildren; and five greatgreat-grandchildren.

A funeral service was held Oct. 24, at Haught Funeral Home Chapel, Plant City.

Online condolences may be made to the family at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Shirley June Cribbs

Shirley June Cribbs, 74, died Oct. 11, 2013, at the Brian Center, in Eden.

Mrs. Cribbs was born Nov.

16, 1938, in Martinsville, Va., and was employed at Ralph’s Automotive (the family business) as a bookkeeper. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Dover. She fought a 37-year battle with multiple sclerosis.

She is survived by her daughter, Pam Craddock, and son-in-law, John Craddock, of Stoneville; brother, George “Buddy” R. Kellam Jr. and wife, Peggy, of Post Falls, Idaho; grandchildren, April Duggins and husband, Chad, Crissy Craddock, Cassie Moore and Delila Moore; and great-grandchildren, Reagan, Parker, Carleigh, Caden and Sammie.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Branick Cribbs, and her parents, George and Ruth Moore.

A graveside service was held Oct. 14, Stoneville City Cemetery, Stoneville, N.C. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the First Baptist Church of Stoneville, Bell Tower Fund, 300 E. Main St., Stoneville, N.C., 27048.

Online condolences may be made to the family at booneandcooke.com.

Margaret J. Egelin

Margaret J. Egelin, 91, of Plant City, died Oct. 15, 2013.

She was born Nov. 27, 1921, in Erie, Pa., to Frank and Arlowene Johnston.

She lived in Waterford, Pa., until 1961, when she moved to Tampa. She was employed

by Silver Lake Country Club and later Carrollwood Golf & Country Club. Upon retirement, Sylva, N.C., became her beloved second home.

She loved traveling, cooking and spending time with family and many wonderful friends. Her quick wit and feisty personality were her trademarks.

She was preceded in death in 2000, by her husband of 56 years, John W. Egelin.

She is survived by two daughters, Sandra Black (Jim)

and Margaret Stevens (Wayne Parrish); brother, Marvin Johnston (Fran); grandsons, Christopher Black (Sherri), Alan Black (Shannon), Gregory Stevens (Amanda), Eric Stevens (Jodi) and Trey Stevens (Ashley); great-grandchildren, A.J. Black, Samantha Black, Ally Rae Black, Ethan Black, Cole Stevens, Evan Stevens, Piper Stevens, Nicholas Jones and Lucas Jones; a sister-in-law, Ruth Egelin; nephew, Steve Johnston; and nieces, Joanne Osborn (Don), Gretchen Slyder (Frank) and Kay Kraus (Bob).

A memorial service was held Oct. 19, at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church of Plant City.

Memorials may be made to St. Peter’s Episcopal Church Building Fund, 302 Carey St., Plant City, FL. 33563.

Charlie Harwell Jr.

Charlie Harwell Jr., 72, of Plant City, died Oct. 17, 2013.

He was born in Plant City and was a lifelong resident.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Cassie; children, Charles “Chuck” (Karen), Curtis (Deanna), and Christa (Thomas); grandchildren, Robby, Alex, Brittany, Amber and T.J.; siblings, Evelyn, Ethel, Irene, Edna, Viola, Wesley and Dorothy; and many other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his infant daughter; parents, Charlie and Doris; and brother, James “Whimpy.”

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at Hopewell Funeral Home, 6005 C.R. 39 S., Plant City. Family will receive friends beginning at 10 a.m. Interment to follow at Hopewell Memorial Gardens.

Online condolences may be made at wecare.io.

Carol Chapman Kilpatrick

Carol Chapman Kilpatrick, 87, of Plant City, died Oct. 19, 2013, at Melech House, in Temple Terrace.

Born Dec. 17, 1925, in Win-

ston Salem, N.C., she was the daughter of the late Lawrence and Nora Chapman Thomason. She was the wife of the late William Kilpatrick.

Surviving is daughter, Sharon Austin, of Plant City.

The family is planning a private interment at a later date.

Online condolences may be made to the family at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Donna Jean Neal

Donna Jean Neal, 65, of Plant City, died Oct. 7, 2013.

She loved her animals and enjoyed working on her land.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Harry Neal.

She is survived by her daughter, Cindy; and grandchildren, Erica, Amanda and Michael.

Online condolences may be made at wecare.io.

Peggy Ruth Tanner

Peggy Ruth Tanner, 79, of Plant City, died Oct. 16, 2013, at South Florida Baptist Hospital.

Born March 27, 1934, in Elba, Ala., she was the daughter of the late J.T. Burk and Ellaree Smith Burk. She was the wife of the late Charles H. Carlisle.

Survivors include sons, Charles (Melinda) and David Carlisle; daughters, Joani (Wayne) Henderson, Sandra Warren, Jill (Charles) Yates and Katrina (Jamie) Michael; sisters, Kathleen Meadows and Dorothy Weber; 12 grandchildren; nine greatgrandchildren; one greatgreat-granddaughter; and two step-grandchildren and their families.

A funeral service was held Oct. 21, at Eastside Baptist Church, Plant City. Interment followed in Antioch Cemetery.

Online condolences may be made to the family at haughtfuneralhome.com.

Sports

YOUTH | HIGH SCHOOL | GOLF | SENIORS | COMMUNITY | TENNIS

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Justin Colligan ran to a top-10 finish in the two-mile. 13 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2013

PLANTCITYOBSERVER.COM

SIDELINES GOLF

+ Plant City ladies strong at districts

The Plant City High School girls golf team won the district championship last week behind a strong outing from Kellyanne Hurst, who took individual honors with a 76. Kendall Johnson and Kaylee McIntosh also performed well, finishing in fourth and fifth place, respectively.

Then, the girls finished second at the FHSAA Regionals Oct. 21.

Hurst finished in ninth place overall, with an 82, leading the Lady Raiders, and Johnson’s 83 put her right behind Hurst in 10th place.

The Region 5 Class 3A girls golf finals will he held Nov. 5 to 6.

faith and football by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

Pennies worth more for Nickel

Death, divorce and relocation are three challenges few kids experience one by one, if at all. Jared Nickel was hit by all three, almost at the same time. But the Plant City newcomer credits his faith — and football — for keeping his head up.

No one on a football team has a more mentally demanding job than the big guys on the offensive line. It’s not dependent on knowing the ins and outs of the playbook, but instead on the ability to stay consistent, to shake off bad plays.

And, with everything Jared Nickel has had to go endure in the past year, the fact that he’s as headstrong as he is makes him a natural for the job.

In one year, Nickel, 12, has overcome the death of his old-

er brother, the divorce of his parents and the move from rural Oklahoma to Plant City.

“He’s the strongest person I know,” his mother, Lisa Nickel, says. “He gets me through.”

On the surface, there’s no way to tell that any of this happened. Jared is a normal, happy kid. He likes hanging out with his friends and plays football to keep busy outside of school. He plays left guard for the Plant City Dolphins’ Junior Varsity team, sometimes

switching to left tackle, and he loves to pancake anybody who lines up in front of him. When football’s playing on the television, he’s rooting for his Oklahoma Sooners.

He’s always loved the game, but his passion has grown since tragedy first struck the Nickel family.

AN EMPTY SUMMER

Jacob Nickel was also very much in love with the game of football.

Unlike his little brother, Jacob liked to play on the defensive side of the game and rush the passer. Helena, Okla., was such a small town that the high school fielded an eightman team. Jacob was one of the defensive ends. Jared really looked up to his older brother.

So, this loss hurt the worst.

In the summer of 2012, Jacob was killed after accidentally flipping his truck while driving.

SEE NICKEL / PAGE 13

GAME OF THE WEEK

WHAT’S ON KLINE’S MIND?

STRAWBERRY CREST AT PLANT CITY | 7:30 P.M. OCT. 25

VOLLEYBALL

Plant City, Crest game promises to be a classic

+ Plant City teams continue to cruise

Plant City and Strawberry Crest are so evenly matched that their seeding for this week’s district tournament at East Bay couldn’t be decided by conventional methods.

“We had to flip a coin for second or third place because we were dead even with Strawberry Crest,” PCHS coach Jessica Thornton said. “They won and received second seed, and us, third seed.”

All targets are locked onto Durant, which happens to be the only undefeated team in Tampa Bay. The Cougars are expected to do well in the tournament by virtually everybody, but history isn’t on their side for keeping that “zero” in their loss column. Since the volleyball format changed to best-of-five in 2003, no Tampa Bay-area team has finished with an undefeated season.

Can they make state history? The championship game is scheduled for 7 p.m. Oct. 24

FOOTBALL

+ Dolphins sweep final homestand

After three out of Plant City’s five divisions lost to East Bay on Oct. 12, the Dolphins wanted to rebound in a big way.

And they did, sweeping the Lakeland Eagles Oct. 20, at home. Only one of the games was close, as the Mighty Mites eked out a 14-12 win over Lakeland.

And that was only the beginning of the day.

The Pee-Wee squad followed the Mites’ lead with another win, but this one came by a score of 27-19.

The Midget team went even further, turning their game into a 40-14 blowout.

Junior Varsity’s offense was only able to score 12 points, the lowest total of any of the Dolphin squads, but it also was the only one to record a shutout.

Finally, the Varsity team ended the day with a 22-6 victory.

There’s one game left in the regular season, and this one will have the Dolphins traveling to Lakeland to take on the Gators. The Mites will kick off the action at 8 a.m.

Oct. 23.

The 2013 season has seen both of these teams step their games up. Will Crest go undefeated in the district? Or, will Plant City move to second place and knock out Durant?

HERE&NOW

by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

It’s been more than two years since Plant City last defeated Strawberry Crest, but those non-district games didn’t mean too much. Now that the schools share a district, the stakes are higher than ever for this Raiders team.

The Raiders haven’t forgotten about their 2012 season opener.

Just one year removed from putting on an offensive clinic for Strawberry Crest, scoring 69 points in a big win, Plant City found itself in a 21-7 hole against a similar Chargers squad. Other than one touchdown, they simply couldn’t find any answers to Crest’s output.

As with any properly-coached football team, the Raiders have moved on. Ask them about last year’s game, and you’ll get the same answer from running back Hassan Bailey all the way up to head coach Wayne Ward.

“I’m just focused on the here-andnow,” Bailey says. “Like my coach says: The next play is always the most important play.”

But, it’s still obvious that they’ve got the memories of that game stored somewhere in their brains, even if they’re tucked away in a little compartment as far from the forefront as possible.

The energy coming from their practice field was a little infectious. Players seemed to arrive with more pep in their step. Coaches were feeling good, even to the point where Ward himself couldn’t hide the big smile on his face.

Courtesy of Lisa Nickel

Jared Nickel’s nickname on the Plant City Dolphins team is “Oklahoma.”

“They’re a really good football team,” Ward says. “By all means, we’re not looking over them.”

As for the Chargers, don’t think for one second that they’re any less stoked for Friday night.

It’s always nice to be able to control your own destiny, and that’s exactly Crest’s position with a 3-0 district record.

A win at Plant City on Friday would give the Chargers the district championship outright — and the first of the school’s short history.

SEE GOTW / PAGE 13

I’m still pretty new around here, but it’s always great to see people get so excited for a rivalry game.

Especially one as meaningful as Friday night’s matchup between Plant City and Strawberry Crest. You could spin this one in a number of different ways, and it’s JUSTIN still a comKLINE pelling game every time.

It’s the oldest program in the area versus the newest one. Plant City High School has been around since 1914; Strawberry Crest wasn’t founded until nearly a century later. These teams have only been writing their history against each other for a few years now, so we’re due for some classics at some point.

It’s the perennially talented team versus the up-and-comers from the outskirts. College scouts are no strangers to 1 Raider Place, and they haven’t been for a while. Virginia Tech noticed head coach Wayne Ward in the mid-1990s and came calling, just as Alabama had noticed Montel McBride prior to this season. Crest, on the other hand, is looking to build a more renowned program and get their kids more national exposure.

It’s a battle between two of the top teams in the district that has an impact beyond themselves. A Chargers win would help keep Durant alive in the playoff hunt, but a Raiders win knocks them out immediately. It may be one of the only times you hear the Durant faithful rooting for Crest.

This one has Game of the

SEE KLINE / PAGE 13

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ATHLETE OF THE WEEK by Justin Kline | Staff Writer

JUSTIN COLLIGAN At Saturday’s CFCAL Championships, Advantage Academy’s Justin Colligan recorded a top-10 time of 13:24 in the boys two-mile race. Colligan finished first among Plant Cityarea runners, which included his teammates and some friendly competition from Shiloh.

What did you just do?

I won 10th place in today’s race. my time was 13:24.

How long have you been running crosscountry?

Two years What grade are you in?

Seventh. I’m 12.

What are some of your hobbies, outside

of running?

Dirt-biking and art Do you compete in dirt biking?

No, I just like to go out there and ride.

What kind of bike do you have?

I have a Honda CRF 70.

What other sports do you play?

I used to play flag football, last season.

Do you have any favorite movies?

“Fast and the Furious.” They’re good.

Favorite books?

I read “Lost Hero,” mostly Rick Riordan.

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NICKEL / PAGE 11 “There was no other car,” Jared says. “It was just his truck.”

As the family mourned Jacob’s death, Jared turned to his faith to stay positive.

He now pays tribute to his late brother in a number of ways.

Jacob wore No. 64 on the football field, so it was natural for Jared to want to switch numbers, as well. But, that will have to wait for another time.

“I couldn’t get No. 64 for the Dolphins,” Jared says. “So, I had to pick 34 instead.”

However, he was able to get something to wear to honor his late brother. He wears two rubber bracelets on his right wrist: one white, one black. Both were made to honor Jacob’s memory. One also has a fitting Scripture for Jared. He, too, is driven by his faith.

He also collects any pennies he finds, because of a poem that was shared with the family after Jacob’s death.

“If you ever find a penny on the ground, an angel threw it down for you,” Lisa says.

KLINE / PAGE 11 Year potential written all over it, and I suspect this won’t be the only year in which that’s the case.

All the hype reminds me of one of my previous beats in Southwest Florida, when I covered high school football in the Naples area.

Not that everyone down there was particularly great at football, but there was always one matchup that you could count on to be consistently great: Naples versus Immokalee.

That one always got all the hype it deserved, and for good reason. If you were going, you were guaranteed everything that comes with a good football game: two talented teams willing to play as hard as they could, a couple of energized, passionate fanbases, and lots of touchdowns.

“That’s the short version of the poem.”

Lisa also keeps a running journal of their penny finds on her phone, a practice that keeps Jacob’s memory alive.

PARTING WAYS

After Jacob’s death, the Nickels’ marriage began to unravel.

“My dad wasn’t really that nice to me and my mom, but he just tried to act nice to me,” Jared says. “And I just didn’t really want to see him that much, because of the way he treated me and my mom.”

Lisa had been married to the same man for 25 years but says she and her husband just found each other growing apart over time. They decided to officially end the marriage in mid-February.

Lisa had previously reconnected with Mike Harrison, an ex-boyfriend living in Plant City and ended up dating him again after the divorce. Jared is grateful to have Harrison in his life now, and Lisa couldn’t be happier about it.

Things went so well that the Nickels decided to move to Florida to be with him.

The story lines weren’t exactly the same as what we have for Crest at Plant City, because the schools have had much more history facing each other. My memories are coming to the front of my brain as a result of you, the fans, getting as excited as they do down there when the Golden Eagles square off against the Indians.

Though, I do suppose there are some similarities.

For starters, Immokalee owes much of its success in recent years to its monstrous O-line. On top of being the backbone of the team for the past few seasons, the line also has been at the forefront of college recruiters’ minds.

For example, the star of this line when I was around was Deadrin Senat, who was very much reminiscent of Plant City’s own Montel McBride.

He was an absolute moun-

GOTW / PAGE 11

FAMILIAR FOES

Plant City only has a few years of film on Strawberry Crest, as the school has only been around since 2009. Watching the film helps the Raiders pick up on the playcalling and the coaching tendencies. But their familiarity with the players goes back much further.

“We’ve been playing with these kids for, I mean, ever since Little League,” Bailey says.

Many of these players would have played together with the Plant City Dolphins or the Turkey Creek Trojans — long before Strawberry Crest High School was conceived. They likely were even classmates up until high school, when the new school popped up in Dover and the zoning changed.

The friends-versus-friends scenario that this matchup creates gives players such as Bailey an extra reason to go out there and do work: Who doesn’t want the bragging rights that come from beating friends in a competition?

DON’T CALL IT A TUNE-UP

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After two consecutive weeks of heartbreak, things finally turned up for the Raiders in a tilt with the Spoto Spartans.

With the 33-14 win, Plant City’s offense ended one point shy of matching its total output in the East Bay and Tampa Bay Tech games. And the team did most of its work in the second half, scoring 26 points to Spoto’s seven and looking completely dominant.

“We came out a little bit slow in the beginning and made some adjustments at halftime,” Ward says. “We came out in the

JARED’S BRACELETS

Jared Nickel wears two rubber bracelets on his wrist in memory of his late brother, Jacob. The white one reads, “Forever Young,” on one side, and has Jacob’s name on the other. The black one spells out Jacob’s favorite Bible scripture, Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

They arrived in Plant City in May. Jared enrolled at Tomlin Middle School and signed up to play for the Dolphins. His coaches and teammates call him “Oklahoma,” which Lisa and Harrison printed on the backs of Dolphins T-shirts for game days.

Weathering all of those storms was tough for Jared, as it would have been for anyone. But, he stayed strong and credits two simple things.

“Faith and football,” Jared says.

Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

tain of a young man, strong enough to handle members of the opposing defensive — or, sometimes the offensive — line in the same way an 11-year-old would play with an action figure.

Senat drew interest from a number of D-I schools, most notably Florida State, but committed to the University of South Florida for the 201314 season. It’s no Alabama, but it’ll certainly do.

The Naples program, on the other hand, saw its luck turn around 15 seasons ago, with the arrival of coach Bill Kramer. The Golden Eagles have had a number of talented players suit up over the years, such as current Ohio State running back Carlos Hyde, but arguably the biggest reason for the team’s success is the head coach himself.

Kramer may be the MacGyver of Southwest Florida

OTHER AREA ACTION DURANT AT HILLSBOROUGH

LAST WEEK: Durant rallied late to beat Brandon, 12-10, while Hillsborough trampled Blake, 52-21.

NOTES: Things weren’t looking so hot for Durant until the fourth quarter, when they rattled off 12 unanswered points and held the Eagles at bay just long enough to secure the win at home. They got the district win they desperately needed to stay alive, and Crest helped out with a win as well. At Blake High School, the Hillsborough Terriers rebounded from a surprisingly sloppy win over Chamberlain with a 52-21 beatdown on the road. They are currently two games behind the mighty Armwood and one behind Jefferson, in their district.

second half and played our style of football, so it was refreshing to come out with a victory.”

Call it whatever you want, as long as those words are not “tune-up.”

“No, it’s not necessarily a confidencebooster,” Ward says. “But, just getting back to the basics and doing what we do well.

Tampa Bay Tech and East Bay were tough losses, both of them. But, we can’t live on the past, and we’ve got to look forward to this as well.”

Ward cites ball security and sticking to fundamentals as the reasons for winning and again as the keys to Friday’s game.

He’s doing just what his players say that he does: always looking to the next play.

Coach John Kelly and the Chargers also

football coaches: If there’s a way to win any game, he would have it figured out before halftime. And they usually did win. Most notably, the Golden Eagles were the only team in recent memory that has consistently had Immokalee’s number. Kramer got the job in 1998, promptly won a state title in 2001 and did it again in 2007. Now, that’s getting a good return on investment.

It’s too early to predict what kind of success the Chargers will have in the near future, but it’s not too early to say that coach John Kelly has really found a way to turn this program around in his two seasons.

I don’t know that this will be a high-scoring contest, like those Naples-Immokalee games usually are, but I have a feeling that this will be just as watchable.

picked up a big win on Friday, dominating East Bay with a 35-14 district win, but they have the same mentality going into this week’s matchup.

“Each game is different, so you can’t always go by the margin of victory or defeat in how you evaluate how two teams are going to perform against each other,” Kelly says.

Kelly is referring to the Raiders’ 19-13 overtime loss at East Bay two weeks ago, which helped move the Indians into a tie with Plant City in the district standings.

“We’re going to have to play great to go up against a team with as many skill players as Plant City has,” he says.

THE BIG PICTURE

A win Friday, along with a Durant victory over East Bay, would put Plant City in the best situation for which it could hope. That would move them into second place in the district and, with a match at Brandon next week, all but guarantee them a secondplace finish and a postseason opportunity.

The following week, they will close the season at home against Gaither.

On the other hand, those in charge of scheduling haven’t been as kind to the Chargers. They’ll get their bye week following Friday’s game but will return to action on Nov. 8 to take on superpower Armwood.

A win Friday would be great for Crest going into their bye, because the Chargers will need every bit of momentum they can get before walking into the lion’s den.

But the coaches — and the players — aren’t trying to talk about crossing those bridges until they get there.

“The here-and-now is here,” Ward says.

Contact Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com.

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PLANT CITY

RAIN

(INCHES)

WEATHER

WED.

Oct. 16

0.00

THURS.

TEMPERATURES

Oct. 17

0.00

FRI.

Oct. 18

0.00

SAT.

Oct. 19

0.00

SUN.

Oct. 20

SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

0.02

MON.

Thurs., Oct. 24 Fri., Oct. 25 Sat., Oct. 26 Sun., Oct. 27 Mon., Oct. 28 Tues., Oct. 29 Wed., Oct. 30

Oct. 21

0.17

TUES.

Oct. 22

0.00

OCT.

TO DATE

0.84 (2012: 3.66)

YEAR

HIGH 77 82 79 81 82 84 86

Thurs., Oct. 24 Fri., Oct. 25 Sat., Oct. 26 Sun., Oct. 27 Mon., Oct. 28 Tues., Oct. 29 Wed., Oct. 30

TO DATE 37.12 (2012: 40.98)

SUNRISE 7:34 a.m.

7:35 a.m.

7:36 a.m.

7:36 a.m.

7:37 a.m.

7:38 a.m.

7:38 a.m.

SUNSET 6:51 p.m.

6:50 p.m.

6:50 p.m.

6:49 p.m.

6:48 p.m.

6:47 p.m.

6:46 p.m.

LOW 57 57 57 61 63 66 68

MOON PHASES

Nov. 9

, 3&

Nov. 17

ZUCCHINI PRICES REPORTING CITY: ORLANDO

HIGH $8.95 $4.85

Nov. 25

Courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture

Nov. 3

PRODUCT LOW 1/2 bushel cartons (sml) $6 1/2 bushel cartons (med) $4.35

Shawn Speaks, receptionist for Jarrett-Scott Ford, snapped this photo of a majestic bald eagle while on lunch break by the Sweetbay warehouse.

Speaks calls this photo, “Fly By.” The Plant City Times & Observer, State Farm Insurance agent Tony Lee and The Corner Store have partnered to host the I Love Plant City Photo Contest. Winners will have their photo featured and receive a $10 gift certificate to The Corner Store! To enter, email your photo, along with a caption, to Editor Michael Eng, meng@plantcityobserver.com; subject line: I Love Plant City. Be sure to include your name.

NOT UTTER NONSENSE

By Jill Pepper | Edited by Timothy E. Parker

ACROSS 1 Type of urban growth 7 Bled in the wash 10 The Fishes of the zodiac 16 Nautical pronoun 19 Medicated lozenge 20 Number before “Liftoff!”

21 Curtain call 22 Die spot 23 “I promise” 26 Opposite direction of WSW 27 Biological classifications 28 Spread rumors 29 Capacity measure 31 Cigar residue 33 ___ Cove, L.I. 34 Dwell 36 Asian dogs, for short 37 Cauterize 39 Long basketball shot’s value 41 In trig, the reciprocal of sin 43 Athena’s shield 45 Evildoer 46 Tater 48 Circulate, as blood 51 Steep cliff 53 Apple beverage 55 “Din” or “ranch” ending 56 “Mr. Holland’s ___” (Richard Dreyfuss film) 57 Excludes 61 Surfer’s inhalations 63 Met murals, e.g.

66 It’s above a master’s 68 Give out by share 69 Bushy hairstyles 70 A-frame supports 73 “Amen to that!”

76 Tours thousand 77 To whom a Muslim prays

78 79 81 82 84 86 89 90 92 97 99 100 102 103 105 106 107 109 112 116 117 119 120 122 123 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135

7-Eleven worker Nut on a wheel It’s tender to the Japanese Absorb “Positively!”

Not of the clergy Airport posting (Abbr.)

“And there it is!”

Alexander the Great’s teacher Places for making soaps?

Club that sings Throat bug, briefly Parsley unit Everyday disinfectant Eighteen holes, for example “Two Mules for Sister ___” Public tiff Book copier of old Bird’s pouch Hardly a dream date Chopped finely Places for earrings Least polite Unit of work Give advice Play part Makes amends Sighs of relief Abhorrent Cheer syllable Accomplish by hook or by crook Happy response to a marriage proposal Pen’s offspring

DOWN 1 Piglet’s home 2 ___ forma 3 Food with lots of fiber 4 Lumbago, e.g.

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

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 24 25 30 31 32 35 38 40 42 44 45 46 47 49 50 52 54 58 59 60 62

Metallic percussion sound Like a fair playing field Like a candlelit dinner for two “Press ___ key to continue” Babe in a maternity ward Examine with attention to detail Low-budget film, often Mary, Queen of ___ Big house resident “Hulk” actor Bana Events with fixed outcomes Enunciate Gate pivot Swords used in an Olympic event Preposition in poetry Fashioned into a sphere Hamburger meat “... and make it fast!”

One available for future reference?

Missile used in the Gulf War Puerto ___ Give careful attention to Horace wrote many Drink, as hot tea Suspicious Young cod Female part of a flower Manny Machado is one Decline, as health Little Labrador Copier paper order Reduced, as tensions Trumpeter’s noise “Great minds think ___” “100 Years ... 100 Movies” org.

© 2013 Universal Uclick

63 64 65 67 71 72 74 75 80 83 85

Loses intensity Make a connection (to) Gab and then some Like petting-zoo animals Daisy ___ of “Li’l Abner” Homemade knife Forearm bones Dutch flower “Jumpin’ Jack Flash, it’s a ___” Cape Canaveral cancellation Fix the socks

87

“... ___ how you play the game” 88 Police officers 91 Misfortunes 93 Disaster aid organization 94 The act of drawing or pulling 95 Italian coin of old 96 “Good heavens!”

98 Follower of “’N” or “lip” 100 “On the wagon” 101 “Ruby ___” (Rolling Stones song) 104 Have trouble deciding

105 Adenosine component 107 Dirty political attack 108 Approximately, as a date 110 Trolley warning 111 Boot wheel 113 Same old grind 114 “For the case at hand” 115 Dandelion-infested, e.g.

118 Numbers to crunch 121 Gulp down greedily 124 Over there, to a bard 125 “___ Sun Also Rises” 126 Boy in a Cash song 127 Attendance fig., often

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2 . Z W U AQ T Q T : “ N J O , O Q K F X A K D D W V M W X R Q V U J F D K I . F J H I I O H R J X Q T J .

N Q R U W U O Q K M JA A N J A K F Z J O AQ X R H I I Q R WA ? ”

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